Map Pocket Assembly Spring Arm Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle map pocket assemblies lack efficient mechanisms to maintain a secure closed position while allowing easy access, often resulting in compromised storage space and durability due to interference from spring mechanisms with stored objects.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a spring arm system with multiple spring fingers and arcs that bias the map pocket panel to a closed position, minimizing interference and distributing forces across the seat back panel, while allowing independent movement of top and bottom portions to accommodate various object sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring mechanism is used to bias the map pocket panel to the closed position, then the map pocket panel can be easily opened and closed, but the spring mechanism interferes with stored objects and reduces storage space
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is relocated from the interior of the map pocket assembly to the exterior, specifically positioned between the seat back panel and the map pocket panel. This dimensional relocation removes the spring from the storage space interior, eliminating interference with stored objects while preserving the biasing function that enables easy opening and closing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A support arm structure serves as an intermediary component between the spring mechanism and the map pocket panel. The support arm transmits the biasing force from the spring to the map pocket panel while providing structural support and defining the opening motion path, allowing the spring to be positioned externally without directly interfering with the storage compartment.
2Ease of operation
If a spring mechanism is used to bias the map pocket panel to the closed position, then the map pocket panel can be easily opened and closed, but the spring mechanism reduces durability due to wear and deformation
Solution Approach 1:
Positioning the spring mechanism externally between the seat back panel and map pocket panel, rather than inside the storage compartment, reduces the number of moving parts and connection points subject to wear from stored objects. This spatial reconfiguration minimizes deformation risks and improves long-term durability while maintaining operational ease.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the spring base is fixed to the seat back panel, then the spring mechanism is stable, but the spring mechanism is visible and affects aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The spring base is integrated with the support arm structure, merging the mounting function with the structural support function. This integration allows the spring mechanism to be positioned in a location that is both stable (attached to the rigid support arm and seat back panel) and aesthetically acceptable (externally positioned where it does not interfere with the visual appearance of the map pocket assembly).
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 ensures minimal wear and deformation, maintains a secure closed position, and allows for easy access, optimizing storage space and durability by hiding the spring mechanisms from view and distributing forces effectively.
Implementation Method 1
The spring arm couples the seat back panel to the map pocket panel to bias the map pocket panel to the closed position. The spring arm has first and second spring fingers extending from a spring base... The first and second spring fingers are moved to a spring angle relative to each other when the map pocket panel is moved to the open position that is greater than the spring angle when the map pocket panel is in the closed position.
Data Source
AI summary
A map pocket assembly is provided with a seat back panel adapted to attach to a seat back, a map pocket panel coupled to the seat back panel and moveable between a closed position and an open position relative to the seat back panel to define a pocket opening therebetween, and a spring arm coupling the seat back panel to the map pocket panel to bias the map pocket panel to the closed position. The spring arm has first and second spring fingers extending from a spring base coupled to one of the seat back panel and the map pocket panel. The first and second spring fingers are moved to a spring angle relative to each other when the map pocket panel is moved to the open position that is greater than the spring angle when the map pocket panel is in the closed position.