Push-Button Box Opening Structure with Depth-Locked Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push-button box-opening structures in vehicles can inadvertently open when an object strikes the push button, leading to unintended lid opening.
Innovation Solution
A push-button box-opening structure where the push button is housed in a button housing, requiring a specific depth of push to open the box, preventing accidental opening by ensuring the button must be pushed by a defined distance before the lid opens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the push button is made easily accessible and visible, then ease of operation is improved, but the risk of inadvertent depression by impacting objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of push button depth, positioning it substantially flush with the rim of the button housing. This creates a two-stage depression mechanism where the first stage (from surface level to given depth) does not trigger opening, while the second stage (from given depth to full depression) releases the locking means. This parameter adjustment allows the button to be easily visible and accessible while preventing inadvertent opening from light impacts.
2Ease of operation
If the push button protrudes outwardly from the rim of the button housing, then ease of operation is improved, but the stroke length increases requiring larger space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the push button position parameter by placing it substantially at the same level as the rim of the button housing. This eliminates the need for a long protruding stroke while still providing adequate depression distance through the two-stage mechanism (surface level to given depth, then given depth to full depression). The locking means is positioned to engage at the given depth point, allowing compact button design with sufficient operational stroke.
3Reliability
If the push button is recessed inwardly of the rim of the button housing, then protection from impacting objects is improved, but visibility and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent sets the push button position parameter at substantially the same level as the rim of the button housing, avoiding deep recession. This positioning provides partial protection while maintaining good visibility and ease of operation. The button housing rim itself provides structural protection, and the two-stage depression mechanism (with given depth engagement point) ensures that minor impacts do not trigger opening while intentional depression does.
Data Source
AI summary
A push-button box-opening structure is provided in which a push button is pushed in from an unlocking starting position to an unlocking position to open a storage box. The unlocking starting position is set at a position where the push button is pushed in a given depth from a pushing-in starting position so as to prevent inadvertent opening of the storage box. The storage box does not open when the button is inadvertently pushed in up to the given depth.