Light-Blocking Member With Bendable Wire For Easy Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tonneau covers for vehicle luggage compartments require complex operations, such as twisting, making it difficult for users to fold and store them effectively.
Innovation Solution
A light-blocking member with a bendable and deformable wire attached to a sheet member, equipped with handle members on one side, allowing for easy folding by simplifying the folding process and eliminating the need for twisting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tonneau cover is folded by twisting the sandwiched portion in a predetermined direction, then the tonneau cover can be folded into a triple ring shape, but the operation becomes complicated and difficult to perform
Solution Approach 1:
The tonneau cover is divided into multiple arc-shaped segments that can be independently manipulated. Each segment has standardized connection interfaces that simplify the folding process, eliminating the need for complex twisting operations while maintaining the ability to fold into a compact triple ring shape.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection portions are pre-formed with standardized interfaces and attachment mechanisms. This preliminary preparation allows users to simply connect segments together during folding without needing to perform complex twisting or alignment operations, significantly simplifying the user's task.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the tonneau cover is made foldable, then it can be stored when not in use, but it becomes difficult to find the correct holding position and twisting direction
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the tonneau cover are marked with distinct colors or patterns to indicate specific holding positions and twisting directions. This visual guidance system eliminates the need for users to remember complex folding instructions, as the color-coded markers provide intuitive real-time guidance during the folding process.
Solution Approach 2:
The tonneau cover incorporates self-guiding features such as color-coded markers and shaped connection interfaces that automatically guide the user through the correct folding sequence. The design itself provides the necessary information, making the system self-instructing and eliminating reliance on external manuals or memory.
3Ease of operation
If a foldable tonneau cover is provided, then it can be detached and stored, but the complex folding process becomes a burden to the user
Solution Approach 1:
The tonneau cover employs dynamic connection mechanisms that allow segments to be quickly attached and detached. The connection portions feature snap-fit or magnetic interfaces that enable rapid assembly and disassembly, reducing the time required for both attachment and storage operations while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The tonneau cover segments are designed to nest within each other when folded, with each arc-shaped segment fitting into the curvature of adjacent segments. This nested configuration maximizes compactness for storage while minimizing the number of adjustment operations needed, thereby reducing the time and effort required for folding and storage.
Data Source
AI summary
To provide a light-blocking member that can be easily folded. Wire 12 is bendable and deformable, and is attached to sheet member 11 so as to surround an outer peripheral part of substantially rectangular sheet member 11. Handle members 14 and 15 are attached to both ends of one side of sheet member 11, and are fixed to wire 12.