Frunk Washer Reservoir Layout for Cargo Space and Slosh Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern vehicles face challenges in accommodating a large volume of washer fluid due to limited space in the frunk or forward storage area, which affects the cleaning of additional surfaces beyond the windshield, and existing solutions do not effectively integrate washer fluid reservoirs with storage compartments without compromising space.
Innovation Solution
A combined frunk and washer fluid reservoir system is designed, incorporating a first and second shell member with a washer fluid reservoir, resilient mounting members for vibration isolation, an insulating barrier to prevent freezing, and serpentine flow paths to reduce sloshing noise, along with a cargo storage zone and liquid drain for efficient fluid management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a large washer fluid reservoir is installed in the frunk, then washer fluid capacity is improved, but storage space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The frunk space is segmented into two distinct zones: an upper article storage zone for cargo and a lower washer fluid reservoir for fluid storage. This vertical segmentation allows both functions to coexist in the same frunk volume without interfering with each other, resolving the contradiction between washer fluid capacity and storage space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from horizontal space utilization to vertical space utilization by extending the storage zone vertically within the frunk. The article storage zone extends downward into the washer fluid reservoir volume, effectively using the vertical dimension to accommodate both cargo and washer fluid without compromising either function.
2Volume of moving object
If the frunk is used for storage, then storage capability is improved, but washer fluid capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The frunk is divided into functional segments with clear spatial separation: the upper portion dedicated to article storage and the lower portion dedicated to washer fluid reservoir. This segmentation enables both storage capability and washer fluid capacity to be maximized simultaneously within the same frunk volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The article storage zone is nested within the overall frunk structure while the washer fluid reservoir forms the base structure. The storage zone extends into the reservoir volume, creating a nested configuration where both functional zones occupy the same physical space without conflict, allowing both storage and fluid capacity to be improved.
3Volume of moving object
If washer fluid reservoir and storage compartment are integrated, then space utilization is improved, but structural complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated frunk system is segmented into two shell members: a first shell member forming the washer fluid reservoir and a second shell member forming the article storage zone. This segmentation allows for modular manufacturing and assembly while achieving high space utilization, as each shell can be produced independently and then mated together.
Solution Approach 2:
The combined frunk system performs multiple functions within a single integrated structure: it serves as both a washer fluid reservoir and an article storage compartment. This multi-functionality improves space utilization by eliminating the need for separate structures, while the modular two-shell design keeps structural complexity manageable through standardized manufacturing processes.
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 system provides a large washer fluid capacity without reducing storage space, enhances passenger comfort by reducing vibration and noise, and ensures effective cleaning of various vehicle surfaces while maintaining temperature insulation and fluid stability.
Implementation Method 1
an insulating barrier is provided between the first shell member and the second shell member
Implementation Method 2
resilient mounting members for vibration isolation
Data Source
AI summary
A frunk system for a vehicle including a first shell member including a base wall having an inner surface and an outer surface, and a plurality of side walls that form a washer fluid reservoir. A liquid fill spout is fluidically connected to the washer fluid reservoir. A second shell member is mated with the first shell member. The second shell member includes a base wall portion having an inner surface portion and an outer surface portion, and a plurality of side wall portions that collectively define an article storage zone that extends into the washer fluid reservoir. The second shell member is sealed to the first shell member. The outer surface of the base wall includes a plurality of resilient mounting members that support the frunk system in the vehicle.