Pivot Rod Storage Bin for Vehicle Seat
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle seat storage solutions, such as drawers beneath the seat, interfere with additional functionalities like seat occupant sensing due to the extensive use of space, limiting storage capacity and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A pivot rod assembly attached to the floor and seat bottom allows a storage bin to pivot between closed and open positions, utilizing a torque load force to bias the bin against the seat and providing accessible storage without obstructing occupant sensing capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a drawer is provided beneath the seat to increase storage capacity, then storage space is improved, but the drawer interferes with seat occupant sensing capability
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is segmented into a storage bin assembly that can be detached from the seat bottom. The bin assembly includes a bin body and a cover, allowing the storage function to be separated from the seat structure. This segmentation enables the sensing system to operate underneath the seat bottom without interference from a permanent drawer, while still providing accessible storage when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage bin assembly is designed to be movable rather than fixed. It can be detached from the seat bottom and positioned in different locations, including underneath the seat or in the cargo area. This dynamic configuration allows the storage system to adapt to different spatial requirements while maintaining compatibility with the occupant sensing system's operational needs.
2Ease of operation
If a storage tray is mounted on rails to slide forward for accessibility, then ease of operation is improved, but the tray extends under the entire seat length interfering with additional functionality
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of a continuous tray extending under the entire seat, the storage system uses a segmented bin assembly that can be positioned in specific locations. The bin can be placed underneath the seat or in the cargo area, providing accessible storage without occupying the entire under-seat space. This segmentation allows other functionalities like occupant sensing to coexist in the same spatial zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage bin assembly can be positioned in multiple spatial dimensions - underneath the seat, in the cargo area, or at various intermediate locations. This multi-dimensional positioning capability provides accessibility without requiring the storage element to extend horizontally under the entire seat length, thereby preserving vertical and lateral space for other functions.
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 enables efficient use of under-seat space for storage while maintaining functionality for occupant sensing systems, enhancing storage capacity and accessibility without compromising existing features.
Implementation Method 1
When a torque load force is placed on the pivot rod assembly about the upper and lower pivot axes the storage bin assembly is biased against the front edge of the seat bottom in a normal closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system is provided for a motor vehicle seat having a seat bottom, the storage system having a pivot rod assembly pivotally attached to the floor of the vehicle at a lower pivot axis by a floor mounting assembly, a storage bin assembly removably secured to a front edge of the seat bottom and pivotally attached to the pivot rod assembly at an upper pivot axis. When a torque load force is placed on the pivot rod assembly about the upper and lower pivot axes the storage bin assembly is biased against the front edge of the seat bottom in a normal closed position. When the torque load force on the pivot rod assembly is overcome, the storage bin assembly moves into an open position.