Expandable Underseat Storage Compartment Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underseat storage compartments in vehicles are difficult to operate, do not adapt well to different floor configurations, and provide limited storage space, making it challenging to accommodate accumulated items during travel.
Innovation Solution
An expandable underseat storage assembly with a front panel assembly that can be moved between retracted and extended positions, utilizing magnetic elements for retention and a latch mechanism for easy operation, which increases storage space and allows for division into sub-compartments when needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed underseat storage compartment is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the storage space is limited and cannot adapt to different vehicle floor configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The front panel assembly is made movable between retracted and extended positions, transforming a static storage compartment into a dynamic one. This allows the storage space to adapt to different vehicle floor configurations and storage needs, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural complexity by introducing controlled movement rather than complete redesign for each configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The front panel assembly is divided into a primary panel and a secondary panel that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the storage compartment to provide multiple storage configurations and adapt to different needs, while each panel maintains a relatively simple structure that is easier to manufacture than a completely complex monolithic design
2Volume of moving object
If a fixed underseat storage compartment is used, then the structure is simple, but the storage space cannot be expanded to accommodate accumulated items
Solution Approach 1:
Magnetic elements are integrated into the system to automatically retain the front panel assembly in its extended position, providing self-service retention without requiring additional latching mechanisms or manual effort. This resolves the contradiction by making the expansion feature essentially self-operating, maintaining ease of operation while enabling increased storage volume
Solution Approach 2:
The movable front panel assembly transforms the fixed storage compartment into a dynamic system that can expand its volume on demand. The panel moves between retracted and extended positions, allowing the storage space to adapt to different storage needs while maintaining simple operation through the magnetic retention system
3Adaptability or versatility
If a movable front panel assembly is added to expand storage space, then the adaptability and storage capacity are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Traditional mechanical latching or locking mechanisms are replaced with magnetic elements that provide automatic retention of the front panel assembly. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical linkages, springs, and latches, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the desired adaptability and storage configuration flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
Magnetic elements serve as an intermediary force between the front panel assembly and the storage compartment structure, providing retention without direct mechanical contact or complex linkages. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall mechanism while achieving the desired functional complexity for adaptable storage configurations
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 expandable design provides increased storage capacity, adapts to various vehicle configurations, and allows for easy access and organization of items, enhancing the utility of the underseat space.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing magnetic elements for retention
Data Source
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AI summary
An automotive vehicle (8) has an expandable underseat storage compartment (24). An elongated seat support member (18) supports a row of vehicle (8) seats and has a middle portion (33) and right and left end pedestals (32A). A front panel assembly (22) extends laterally across the vehicle (8) in front of the right and left end pedestals (32A, 32B) and is movable between retracted and extended positions position wherein when the front panel assembly (22) is in the extended position the storage space of the storage compartment (24) is larger than when the front panel assembly (22) is in the retracted position.