Removable Storage Bin with Docking Stations for Vehicle Versatility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional motor vehicle storage options are inadequate and non-versatile, failing to provide sufficient dedicated storage for rear seat occupants and being fixed in location, limiting their utility.
Innovation Solution
An instrument panel storage system with a removable storage bin featuring a docking feature that allows secure placement at multiple locations within the vehicle, utilizing a combination of depending tabs and suction cups for versatile positioning, along with optional features like hinged lids, retractable covers, and charging stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fixed storage compartments are provided in the instrument panel, then storage structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but storage versatility and adaptability to different user needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into a fixed instrument panel structure and a removable storage bin component. The storage bin can be detached and relocated to different positions within the vehicle, providing versatility while keeping the instrument panel manufacturing simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage bin transitions from a fixed state to a movable state through the docking mechanism. It can be inserted into and removed from different docking stations (instrument panel, door panels, console), enabling dynamic reconfiguration based on user needs.
2Ease of operation
If dedicated storage compartments are added for rear seat occupants, then storage accessibility improves, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The same storage bin serves multiple functions and locations. It can be used in the instrument panel, door panels, or console, eliminating the need for separate dedicated storage compartments for different locations and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking mechanism acts as an intermediary that enables the storage bin to interface with multiple locations (instrument panel, door panels, console) without requiring complex integration at each location. The docking feature standardizes the connection interface.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed storage locations are provided throughout the vehicle, then storage versatility improves, but manufacturing complexity and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system separates the storage container (bin) from the mounting locations (docking stations). Only simple docking interfaces are built into the vehicle structure at multiple locations, while the complex storage bin is manufactured separately and can be relocated as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of building complex permanent storage structures at multiple locations, the system uses simple docking stations that can accommodate a removable bin. The bin can be discarded from one location and recovered at another, providing versatility without manufacturing complexity.
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 system offers enhanced storage versatility and accessibility for all vehicle occupants by allowing the storage bin to be securely positioned at various locations, accommodating different item sizes and providing charging capabilities, thus meeting diverse storage needs.
Implementation Method 1
the suction cup engages the door window to thereby secure the storage bin in position
Data Source
AI summary
An instrument panel storage system is provided for a motor vehicle. That storage system includes an instrument panel having a storage cavity defining a first docking station and a removable storage bin held in the cavity at the first docking station. Further the storage system includes one or more remote docking stations that allow the removable storage bin to be positioned at different locations within the motor vehicle as desired by the vehicle occupants.