Movable Vehicle Storage Console Extension Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage and support systems in motor vehicles for rear passengers are inefficient, as they reduce knee space and offer limited storage volume, and central consoles with armrests occupy valuable space in the passenger compartment.

Innovation Solution

A modular storage console with a movable extension module that slides between stowed and extended positions, featuring a foldable tablet and adjustable support, integrated ventilation, and a locking mechanism, allowing for optimized storage volume and support surface while maintaining passenger comfort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a central console with armrest is installed in the passenger compartment, then storage functionality is provided, but the armrest occupies valuable space in the passenger compartment in front of the rear passenger seats

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage functionalityVSAvoidspace in passenger compartment
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The armrest is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to slide between a retracted position (stowed) and an extended position. This dynamic design enables the armrest to provide storage functionality when needed while minimizing space occupation when not in use, directly resolving the contradiction between providing storage and maintaining passenger space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The storage console is divided into a fixed portion and a movable extension module. The extension module can be independently adjusted or removed, allowing the storage system to adapt to different space requirements while maintaining the core functionality of the fixed portion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If storage pockets or purses are arranged at the rear of the front seats, then storage is provided for rear passengers, but the space dedicated to the knees of the rear passengers is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage for rear passengersVSAvoidknee space of rear passengers
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The storage system uses a movable extension module that can be retracted into the fixed console when not needed. This allows rear passengers to have full knee space when the extension is retracted, while still providing accessible storage when the extension is deployed, eliminating the permanent space reduction caused by fixed storage solutions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Volume of stationary object

If the extension module is made movable to optimize storage volume, then storage capacity is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage volumeVSAvoidmovable mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The extension module employs simple sliding mechanisms on rails rather than complex mechanical systems. The movability is achieved through straightforward linear guides and locking mechanisms that allow easy extension and retraction while maintaining structural integrity, thus increasing storage volume without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism for the extension module is designed to be easily operated by the user without requiring complex controls or assistance. The simple lockable system on the rails allows users to secure the extension in desired positions independently, reducing the need for complex control systems while maintaining functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP4177111A1Storage device for a vehicle
Publication Date: 2023.05.10 RENAULT SA
  • EP4177111A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4177111A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4177111A1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

Storage device (50) for motor vehicle, comprising a storage console (2), in particular a central storage console, characterized in that it comprises an extension module (30) arranged at the rear of the storage console (2), mounted movable relative to the storage console (2), in particular movable in translation, between a stowed position and an extended position, and in that the extension module (30) comprises a body (31) and a shelf (61) arranged on the body (31) in a movable manner relative to the body (31).