Pop-Out Frunk and Trunk Linkage for Ergonomic Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accessing frunk and trunk compartments in vehicles can be ergonomically challenging due to their height or depth, making it difficult for users to retrieve items easily.
Innovation Solution
A pop-up mechanism using a 4-bar or 5-bar link mechanism that allows the storage compartment to extend out of the vehicle for easy access and retract back into the vehicle, providing ergonomic access by pivoting about the trunk or frunk area and being activated manually, semi-automatically, or automatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the storage compartment is positioned at a fixed height and depth in the vehicle, then the vehicle structure remains simple and stable, but user access to the compartment becomes ergonomically difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The storage compartment transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic movable position using a link mechanism. The compartment can pivot between a retracted position (flush with vehicle body) and an extended position (protruding outward), allowing users to access items at ergonomic heights while maintaining a simple integrated appearance when retracted.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system is divided into separate functional components: the storage compartment itself, the link mechanism (4-bar or 5-bar), and the control system. This segmentation allows the compartment to be independently operated without affecting the overall vehicle structure, enabling easy access while preserving structural integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the storage compartment extends out of the vehicle for easy access, then user ergonomics improve, but the vehicle profile and aerodynamics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The storage compartment dynamically changes its position relative to the vehicle body, extending outward only when needed for access and retracting to maintain a sleek aerodynamic profile during normal driving. This dynamic adjustment resolves the conflict between accessibility and vehicle shape.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage compartment operates in periodic cycles of extension and retraction based on user need. During most of the time it remains retracted to preserve vehicle profile, and extends periodically when users need to access stored items, balancing aerodynamic efficiency with accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and vehicles including a pop-out trunk/frunk and methods of using the same. A system may include a storage compartment. The storage compartment may have a base configured to receive a payload. The system may further include a trunk/frunk area. The trunk/frunk area may be configured to receive the storage compartment. The system may further include a mechanism. The mechanism may be attachable to the storage compartment and configured to traverse the storage compartment between an up position where the storage compartment extends up and out of the trunk/frunk area and a down position where the storage compartment is within the trunk/frunk area.