Powered Vehicle Bay Divider Locking for Secure Accessory Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accessories interfacing with vehicle bay dividers lack a means to receive power and are not securely affixed, leading to unsecured storage and potential disengagement.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism that provides a secure connection and powered coupling between accessories and vehicle bay dividers, utilizing through openings with electrical interfaces and a push-push assembly to lock accessories in place, ensuring power transmission and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If accessories are hung from the panel for unsecured storage, then ease of access is improved, but security and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a locking member with engagement features, a actuating mechanism with spring-loaded elements, and interface features on the panel. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while working together to provide both secure locking and easy actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism incorporates spring-loaded elements that provide dynamic response to actuation forces. The springs enable the locking member to transition between locked and unlocked states, and can accommodate variations in insertion force while maintaining reliable engagement.
2Reliability
If accessories are securely affixed to the panel, then security and stability are improved, but ease of access and installation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism employs spring-loaded elements that automatically engage with the panel features when the accessory is inserted. The springs provide the necessary force for engagement without requiring additional actuation, enabling the mechanism to lock itself upon simple insertion of the accessory.
3Adaptability or versatility
If through openings are equipped with electrical interfaces for power transmission, then functionality of accessories is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical interface features are integrated directly into the through openings of the panel, combining the mechanical mounting function with the electrical power transmission function in a single structural element. This merging eliminates the need for separate electrical connections and reduces overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The through openings serve multiple functions: providing mechanical support for the accessory, enabling lateral movement accommodation, and transmitting electrical power through integrated contacts. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the system.
4Reliability
If a locking mechanism with spring-loaded elements is used, then reliability of engagement is improved, but manufacturing complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded locking mechanism replaces complex multi-component mechanical assemblies with a more integrated design where the spring elements are incorporated directly into the locking member structure. This substitution simplifies manufacturing while maintaining the reliable engagement provided by the spring force.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are presented herein for a vehicle bay divider comprising a plurality of powered through openings configured to interface with a locking mechanism, where the locking mechanism affixes an accessory to the vehicle bay divider enabling a powered connection between at least one of the through openings and the powered accessory. Each of the through openings comprises at least one interface configured to provide power through physical leads or wirelessly. The locking mechanism may comprise tabs or pegs configured to be received by the through openings and secure the powered accessory to the vehicle bay divider. The locking mechanism may comprise a push-push assembly and linkages that cause the tabs or pegs to translate in opposing direction into engaged and disengaged positions.