Folding Vehicle Tray Assembly for Expandable Compartment Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle storage systems lack a stowable and deployable tray solution that efficiently utilizes storage compartments for holding and transporting items.
Innovation Solution
A deployable folding tray system comprising a first, second, and third tray, pivotally coupled and connected via a connector assembly to a support in a storage compartment, allowing for deployment from a storage compartment and stowage within it.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a storage compartment is used to hold items, then items can be stored and transported, but the storage space is limited and fixed in size
Solution Approach 1:
The storage compartment is transformed from a static structure to a dynamic deployable system. The tray assembly can be folded between a retracted position (within the compartment) and an extended position (protruding from the compartment), allowing the storage capacity to vary dynamically based on user needs while maintaining a compact form when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage compartment is divided into multiple segments (first tray, second tray, third tray) that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the system to achieve extended storage capacity when deployed while maintaining a compact overall size when retracted, as each segment can be folded or extended as needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed storage compartment is provided, then items can be held, but the system lacks versatility for different storage needs
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system incorporates movable trays with pivot connections that allow dynamic reconfiguration between retracted and extended positions. This dynamic capability provides versatility for different storage needs (full extension for maximum capacity, partial extension for moderate needs, retracted for minimal profile) without requiring multiple separate storage compartments.
Solution Approach 2:
The first tray, second tray, and third tray are arranged in a nested configuration where they can fold into each other when retracted. This nesting arrangement allows the system to maintain a compact form factor when not in use while providing the ability to extend outward in stages to accommodate various storage requirements, balancing versatility with space efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A deployable folding tray system for a vehicle including a first tray, a second tray pivotally coupled to the first tray, a third tray pivotally coupled to the second tray, and a connector assembly connecting the third tray to a support in a storage compartment which defines a storage space of the vehicle. The second tray pivots relative to the first tray to be deployed from the storage compartment, wherein the first tray pivots relative to the second tray to extend further into a deployed position, and wherein the first, second or third trays are stowed within the storage compartment in a stowed position.