Hidden Sliding Door Assembly with Internal Track Guide
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sliding door assemblies in motor vehicles are aesthetically unappealing due to the visible external track, which can stigmatize the vehicle as utilitarian, while also limiting access due to obstructions.
Innovation Solution
A hidden sliding door assembly featuring a link arm connected to a support surface with a track guide and roller mechanism, allowing the door to slide over an internal track concealed within the arm rest, and a locking mechanism for secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If an external track is used for the sliding door, then the sliding door mechanism is visible and provides structural support, but the vehicle aesthetics are degraded and the door is stigmatized as utilitarian
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the external track structure from the vehicle body and relocates it inside the door assembly. The track is now integrated into the door panel rather than being mounted externally, which eliminates the visible track while preserving the sliding mechanism's structural support function.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding track is nested within the door assembly structure. The track guide and rollers are positioned inside the door panel, with the track itself concealed within the door's internal structure. This nesting allows the sliding mechanism to function while remaining hidden from external view.
2Ease of operation
If a standard pivoting door is used, then the door structure is simple, but access is limited by obstructions and the door cannot fully open
Solution Approach 1:
The door assembly employs a dynamic sliding mechanism that allows the door panel to move horizontally along the concealed track. This dynamic movement enables the door to slide fully open without the angular limitations of a pivoting door, providing unobstructed access while the mechanism remains integrated within the door structure.
3Shape
If the track is concealed within the door assembly, then aesthetics are improved, but the track guide and rollers must be precisely integrated into the door structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the track, track guide, and roller mechanisms into a single integrated door assembly. The track guide is formed as part of the door panel structure, and the rollers are mounted directly to the door assembly, eliminating the need for separate external track mounting and reducing manufacturing complexity.
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 solution provides the convenience of a sliding door without the external track, enhancing vehicle aesthetics and ensuring full access without visible obstructions, while maintaining secure locking and easy operation.
Implementation Method 1
In addition, a spring may be provided to bias the link arm from a home position toward a door sliding position.
Implementation Method 2
The track guide may include or comprise a roller mechanism. That roller mechanism may have a first roller engaging in the track on the door body.
Data Source
AI summary
A sliding door assembly includes a link arm connected to a support surface, a track guide carried on the link arm and a door body including a track that slides over the track guide. A related method of operating the sliding door assembly is also disclosed.