Expandable Vehicle Storage Assembly with Elastomeric Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motor vehicle owners require a storage assembly that can accommodate larger items like purses and file folders while being easily accessible and aesthetically integrated into the vehicle's interior, with the ability to expand and contract seamlessly.
Innovation Solution
A deployable and expandable storage assembly featuring an elastomeric linkage system, a floor linkage mechanism, and a locking mechanism, which allows the cover to pivot between stowed and deployed positions, forming a spacious storage area with an access opening, utilizing elastomeric links and torsion springs for expansion and biasing, and a mesh structure for forming end walls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the storage assembly is made expandable to accommodate larger items, then the storage volume is increased, but the device complexity increases due to the linkage mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The storage assembly employs a dynamic expandable linkage mechanism that allows the cover to transition between retracted and extended positions. The linkage assembly includes multiple connecting rods and pivot pins that enable smooth expansion and contraction, transforming a static storage compartment into a dynamic structure that adapts its volume based on storage needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The expandable linkage mechanism is nested within the storage assembly structure, with the linkage components integrated into the cover and panel framework. The elastomeric links are contained within the rigid connecting rods, creating a compact nested arrangement that minimizes space when retracted while enabling full expansion when needed.
2Ease of operation
If the storage assembly is made deployable to increase accessibility, then the ease of operation is improved, but the aesthetic integration deteriorates when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed as a dynamic component that can be deployed on demand and returns to a retracted position when not in use. The expandable linkage mechanism enables the cover to smoothly transition between positions, providing easy access to stored items while maintaining a clean, integrated appearance in the retracted state that blends with the vehicle interior.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage assembly is extracted from the fixed panel structure as a separate, movable cover that can be deployed independently. This allows the storage compartment to be accessed by removing or opening the cover, which can then be positioned out of the way, while the underlying panel structure maintains its original aesthetic appearance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the elastomeric links are made stretchable to enable expansion, then the adaptability is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to material stress
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage assembly combines elastomeric materials with rigid connecting rods and metal pivot pins to create a composite structure. The elastomeric links provide the necessary flexibility and stretchability for expansion, while the rigid rods and metal hardware bear the structural loads and provide durability, distributing stress away from the elastomeric components.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the linkage mechanism have different material properties optimized for their specific functions. The elastomeric links are designed with local stretchability where needed, while the connecting rods and pivot pins maintain rigid structural integrity. This localized differentiation of material properties allows the system to achieve both expandability and reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The storage assembly provides a versatile, aesthetically integrated solution that can accommodate larger items by expanding to increase volume and securely store them, while maintaining a clean, integrated appearance when not in use.
Implementation Method 1
both connecting rods incorporate elastomeric links which may stretch so that the storage assembly may be expanded to receive larger volume items
Implementation Method 2
The storage assembly may include a biasing mechanism for biasing the floor linkage into the second position. That biasing mechanism may comprise one or more torsion springs at the pivot.
Data Source
AI summary
A deployable and expandable storage assembly is provided for a motor vehicle. That storage assembly includes a panel, an expandable linkage assembly and a cover. The cover is carried on the expandable linkage assembly and is displaceable between a stowed position toward the panel and a deployed position projecting from the panel so as to define a storage space and an access opening.