Modular Rear Shelf Panel Segmentation for Folded Seat Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rear shelves in motor vehicles face challenges in storing tablets due to their dimensions and rigidity, leading to reduced loading volume and risk of deformation when folded, and existing solutions are not suitable for configurations where rear seat backs are folded horizontally.
Innovation Solution
A rear parcel shelf with a U-shaped rigid hoop and pivotally mounted panels that can transition between deployed and folded positions, allowing for flexible use of loading space without hindering the loading of elongated objects, featuring a composite material rigid plate and removable retaining straps for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the panel is made rigid to maintain its shape and provide support, then the panel can effectively mask the loading and provide structural support, but it becomes difficult to store the panel when removed and risks deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is divided into a rigid main part and a flexible extension part. The rigid main part provides structural support and masking function, while the flexible extension part can be folded or rolled up for easy storage, resolving the contradiction between maintaining rigidity and ease of storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel incorporates a flexible extension that can dynamically change its configuration between extended and folded states. This dynamic flexibility allows the panel to maintain rigidity when needed for support while enabling easy storage when removed, overcoming the static limitation of fully rigid panels.
2Volume of stationary object
If the panel is placed vertically against the side parts to maintain loading volume, then the loading volume is preserved, but the panel deforms due to lack of support
Solution Approach 1:
The panel structure implements local quality by having a rigid main part that provides localized support at critical areas, while the flexible extension adapts to the storage space. This localized rigidity maintains panel shape stability when placed vertically without compromising loading volume.
3Volume of stationary object
If the shelf is used in configuration with folded seat backs to increase loading volume, then the loading volume is increased, but the shelf forms a vertical dividing wall that prevents loading of elongated objects
Solution Approach 1:
The panel's flexible extension can dynamically adjust its position and configuration. When seat backs are folded, the flexible extension can be folded or removed, allowing the rigid main part to be positioned without forming a permanent vertical dividing wall, thus enabling loading of elongated objects while maintaining increased loading volume.
4Area of stationary object
If the panel extends along the mid-plane to provide full masking coverage, then the masking effectiveness is improved, but the panel interferes with loading when seat backs are folded horizontally
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is segmented into a rigid main part for masking and a flexible extension for adaptation. The rigid main part can be positioned to provide adequate masking coverage, while the flexible extension can be folded or removed when seat backs are folded horizontally, eliminating interference with loading operations.
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
Enables convenient storage and concealment of loads, maintains loading volume when seat backs are folded, and prevents deformation of tablets by acting as a flat support for objects, enhancing ergonomics and usability.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible part forming a hinge (35, 45) longitudinally extending said rigid part (31, 41) and intended to be fixed by its end opposite said rigid part to the rear face of said back first (7, 8)
Implementation Method 2
said hoop being intended to be pivotally mounted about a transverse axis on the side flanks of the rear part of said vehicle
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a rear shelf for a motor vehicle comprising at least one panel for masking the cargo in the rear trunk of said vehicle, said shelf further comprising a rigid U-shaped hoop (20) comprising two parallel opposing side posts (21) and a cross member (22) connecting the two rear ends of said posts (21), said hoop (20) being intended to be pivotally mounted about a transverse axis on the side sides of the rear part of said vehicle, each said panel (30, 40) being able to be pivotally mounted about a transverse axis on a corresponding backrest (7, 8) of the rear seat (6) of said vehicle between an extended position in which it extends substantially along the mean plane of said hoop (20) while partially resting on the latter, and a folded position in which it is pressed against the rear face of said backrest (7, 8).