Modular Vehicle Console Spine with Accessory Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle consoles in lower-scale vehicles lack ergonomic adaptability and desirable features, leading to uncomfortable and potentially unsafe user interactions due to sparse design and inadequate placement of accessories like cup-holders, which can obstruct access to essential controls.
Innovation Solution
A modular console apparatus featuring a spine member that securely attaches various accessory modules, allowing users to customize the placement and type of features such as storage compartments, cup-holders, armrests, and power connections, ensuring ergonomic comfort and safety by providing a snug and stable attachment system that complies with regulatory load-bearing standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a sparse console design is used in lower-scale vehicles, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but user comfort and ergonomics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The console is divided into a fixed spine member and separate removable accessory modules. The spine member provides the basic structure at low cost, while accessory modules (cup-holders, storage bins, armrests) can be added or removed based on user needs, allowing cost-effective base design with optional comfort enhancements.
Solution Approach 2:
The spine member is designed as a universal base that can accommodate multiple different types of accessory modules. This allows a single low-cost spine structure to support various configurations of comfort features, making the console adaptable to different user preferences without requiring multiple specialized designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed console features are provided, then user needs are met, but adaptability to different user preferences deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The console features are segmented into removable accessory modules that can be independently selected and attached to the spine member. This allows users to customize their console configuration without complicating the overall structure, as each module is a self-contained unit with standardized attachment interfaces.
3Ease of manufacture
If cup-holders are positioned in standard locations, then manufacturing is simplified, but ergonomic accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cup-holder position is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. The accessory module with cup-holder can be attached at different locations along the spine member, allowing users to position cup-holders optimally for their body type and driving position, thereby improving accessibility without complicating manufacturing through standardized attachment points.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1C~1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
A console apparatus for use in a vehicle that secures additional optional accessories that function to provide storage space for personal items, food and liquids, and/or and armrest, the apparatus including one or more accessory modules and a spine member for receiving, securing and reducing the jostling or shifting of one or more accessory modules by a person or the motions of a moving vehicle.