Pivotable Armrest Center Console for Vehicle Storage Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Center console storage spaces in passenger vehicles often become inaccessible when armrests are used to support passengers' arms, and existing designs may not accommodate both arm support and large item storage simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A center console with independently pivoting left and right armrests that can block or allow access to a storage space through an upwardly-opening aperture, providing arm-support surfaces in both closed and open positions, allowing passengers to rest their arms while maintaining access to the storage space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If armrests block storage space access, then storage security is improved, but storage accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The armrests provide a dynamic solution where the closed position maintains storage security by blocking access, while the open position allows easy access when needed. The pivotable design enables quick transition between security and accessibility states.
Solution Approach 2:
The aperture is segmented into left and right portions, allowing selective access. One side can remain closed for security while the other is opened for access, providing localized control over storage security and accessibility.
2Device complexity
If a single armrest structure is used, then device complexity is reduced, but functional versatility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Each armrest is designed as a multi-functional component that can serve as an arm support surface when closed and as an access door to storage when opened. This universal design allows a single structure to perform multiple functions, increasing versatility without significantly increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable armrests transition between static (arm support) and dynamic (access door) states, enabling a simple structure to achieve multiple functions through positional changes rather than complex mechanical additions.
Data Source
AI summary
A center console for use in a passenger vehicle is adapted to be located between a pair of passenger seats. The center console includes a storage container formed to include a storage space accessible through an aperture and armrests coupled to the storage container to provide a support surface for the arms of passengers in the seats and to regulate access to the storage space.