Rotatable Bulkhead Panel for Vehicle Cabin Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern van designs face a challenge in accommodating drivers of larger sizes due to compromised crew cabin space, as moving the bulkhead to increase space reduces cargo capacity, and existing solutions either limit passenger comfort or cargo capacity.
Innovation Solution
A bulkhead with a removable second panel that can be rotated 180 degrees to face either the cargo or passenger compartment, allowing for adjustable space without compromising cargo capacity, using quick release fasteners for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the bulkhead is moved rearwards to increase crew cabin space, then the driver comfort is improved, but the cargo carrying capacity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bulkhead panel is made dynamically reconfigurable through a rotatable second panel that can be positioned in multiple orientations. The panel rotates about a vertical axis and can be secured in different positions using quick release fasteners, allowing the crew cabin space to be dynamically adjusted based on whether cargo capacity or driver comfort is the priority at any given time.
Solution Approach 2:
The bulkhead is segmented into a first fixed panel and a second rotatable panel that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the second panel to be rotated and secured at different angles, creating variable space configurations in the crew cabin while maintaining the structural integrity and cargo capacity of the overall bulkhead assembly.
2Ease of operation
If the van length is increased to maintain both cargo capacity and crew cabin space, then the driver comfort is improved, but the vehicle length increases reducing parking ease
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing the overall van length, the invention uses a dynamically reconfigurable bulkhead panel that can be rotated to create additional crew cabin space within the existing vehicle envelope. This allows the van to maintain its original compact length for easy parking while providing adjustable space for driver comfort when needed.
3Quantity of substance
If a fixed bulkhead design is used to maximize cargo capacity, then the cargo carrying capacity is improved, but the crew cabin space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bulkhead incorporates a rotatable second panel that can be secured in different positions using quick release fasteners. When the panel is rotated to face the cargo compartment, maximum cargo capacity is achieved. When rotated to face the crew cabin, additional space is created for driver comfort, demonstrating dynamic adaptability between the two competing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The second bulkhead panel serves multiple functions: it can be positioned to maximize cargo capacity, create additional crew cabin space, or configured for optimal driver comfort. This multi-functionality allows a single bulkhead design to address both cargo capacity and crew cabin space requirements depending on the operational needs.
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a
AI summary
A bulkhead (5) for a motor vehicle (1) is disclosed having a removable panel (12) that can be transposed so that in one position a cavity (15) formed in the removable panel (12) is located so as to accommodate an upper end of a seat (3) and in another position the cavity (15) is position so as not to intrude into a cargo carrying compartment (4) of the motor vehicle (1).