Bi-directional Glovebox Downstop with Interlocking Feature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gloveboxes in vehicles lack a mechanism for safe and efficient rotation limiting and release functions, which can lead to over-rotation and potential damage during customer use or maintenance, such as leaning against the glovebox.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional downstop mechanism integrated within the glovebox frame, which includes a deflecting flange and interlock flange, allows for a blocking position to prevent over-rotation and a release position to facilitate removal, utilizing a reinforcing interlock to limit deflection and absorb forces, enabling easy access and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional downstop mechanism is used to prevent over-rotation, then the glovebox frame is protected from damage, but the mechanism for release and removal becomes complex and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The downstop component is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as a blocking element to prevent over-rotation, serves as a reinforcing structure to absorb forces, and functions as a release mechanism when deflected. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mechanisms, simplifying the overall system while maintaining both protection and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The downstop mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through user interaction. When the user applies force to the glovebox frame, the downstop automatically deflects from its blocking position, releasing the frame without requiring separate controls or complex操作步骤. The reinforcing interlock automatically engages and disengages based on the frame's position.
2Strength
If a reinforcing interlock is added to limit deflection and absorb forces, then the structural strength is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing interlock is integrated directly into the downstop component rather than being a separate mechanism. The downstop includes both the blocking function and the reinforcing interlock structure, merging multiple functions into a single component. This reduces the number of parts and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining strength and force absorption capabilities.
3Ease of repair
If the downstop is designed to allow easy removal by bypassing the housing, then the ease of maintenance is improved, but the reliability of the blocking function may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The downstop mechanism is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to maintain a reliable blocking position during normal operation but transition easily to a release state when needed. The deflecting flange allows the downstop to flex and move from its blocking position to a release position, enabling easy removal while maintaining blocking reliability during normal use. The reinforcing interlock provides stable engagement during blocking but can be easily disengaged when the frame is intentionally removed.
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 bi-directional downstop mechanism ensures safe operation by preventing over-rotation and allowing easy removal of the glovebox for servicing, reducing the risk of damage and enhancing user interaction through tactile feedback and minimal force requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a deflecting flange, integrally formed with each of the frame and the downstop, that rotates the downstop between the blocking position and the release position
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle glovebox includes a frame rotationally operable within a housing. A downstop is defined within the frame, wherein the downstop in a blocking position engages the housing to define a fully-open position of the frame. The downstop is operable to a release position that defines rotation of the frame beyond the fully-open position.