Movable Loading Platform Handle Slide Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing movable loading platforms for motor vehicle luggage compartments suffer from aesthetic drawbacks and accidental object loss due to the handle opening, which makes contents in the lower area visible and allows small objects to fall through when raised.
Innovation Solution
A loading platform with a handle featuring a C-shaped slide mechanism and elastic element that automatically returns to a closed position, preventing objects from falling and enhancing aesthetics by obstructing the view through the opening, while allowing easy manual operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a simple rectangular frame handle is used, then the handle structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the aesthetic value is reduced and small objects can fall through the opening
Solution Approach 1:
A slide element is introduced as an intermediary component between the handle opening and the external environment. This slide acts as a movable barrier that can be positioned to close the opening when needed, preventing objects from falling through while maintaining the simple rectangular frame structure of the handle itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle opening is transformed from a static open structure to a dynamic system with a movable slide element. The slide can move between open and closed positions, allowing the handle to adapt its configuration based on operational needs - open for easy access and closed for preventing object loss.
2Ease of manufacture
If a simple rectangular frame handle is used, then the handle structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the aesthetic value is reduced due to the visible opening
Solution Approach 1:
The slide element serves as a cosmetic intermediary that can be positioned to cover the handle opening when aesthetic appearance is prioritized. This allows the simple rectangular frame to maintain its manufacturing simplicity while the slide provides a clean, closed appearance when needed.
3Ease of operation
If the loading platform is raised to access the lower area, then access to stored items is enabled, but small objects can accidentally fall into the lower area through the handle opening
Solution Approach 1:
The slide element provides preliminary protection by being able to close the handle opening before objects can accidentally fall through. When the loading platform is raised for accessing the lower area, the slide can be positioned to seal the opening, preventing the harmful effect of object loss while maintaining ease of access to the lower storage area.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If a slide mechanism with elastic element is added, then objects are prevented from falling through the opening, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic element provides self-service functionality by automatically returning the slide to its closed position after it has been moved. This eliminates the need for additional actuators, motors, or complex control mechanisms - the slide mechanism serves itself through the elastic recovery force, minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element replaces complex mechanical actuation systems with a simple elastic recovery mechanism. Instead of requiring motors, sensors, or complex linkages to return the slide to its closed position, a straightforward elastic element provides the necessary restoring force, significantly reducing mechanical 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 effectively prevents objects from falling through the opening, maintains aesthetic appeal, and allows easy handling of the platform without increasing complexity or component count, ensuring objects can be easily retrieved without moving the platform.
Implementation Method 1
At least one elastic element (45) is provided which is positioned and preloaded such as to push the slide (35) into the forward position
Data Source
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AI summary
A movable loading platform (1) for a luggage compartment (4) of a motor vehicle (5) has an upper surface (8), defining a support for baggage or other objects, and a lower surface (9) adapted to be arranged in a position facing a bottom floor of the luggage compartment (4); the loading platform (1) is provided with a panel (13) and a handle (30) coupled to the panel (13); the latter has a rear portion (11) with a through opening (18) along an axis (19); the handle (30) has a slide (35), which translates along a longitudinal axis (20) between a forward position, in which it closes the opening (18), and a retracted position, in which the opening (18) is at least partially open to allow a user to insert his/her own fingers.