Flexible Seat-Top Storage With Straps to Protect Seats
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat storage solutions are inconvenient, unsuitable for certain items, and may damage or soil the seat, with items potentially sliding off during abrupt stops.
Innovation Solution
A flexible seat-top storage device with a secure and organized design, featuring a flexible apron or cover with elastic properties, a zipper closure, and securing straps to attach to the vehicle seat, allowing easy access and protection against spills.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If items are placed directly on the vehicle seat, then the seat surface is exposed and vulnerable to damage or soiling, but using traditional storage solutions like glove compartments or center consoles reduces accessibility and convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a seat-top storage device as an intermediary between the seat surface and stored items. This device includes a base layer that contacts the seat, an upper layer that forms the storage surface, and securing mechanisms (straps, buckles, Velcro) that anchor the device to the seat. This intermediary structure protects the seat from direct contact with items while providing convenient access to stored objects without requiring traditional enclosed storage compartments.
2Reliability
If a rigid storage structure is used on the seat, then items are securely held, but the device becomes difficult to store when not in use and may interfere with seat functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic, flexible materials and structures throughout the device. The base and upper layers are made of flexible materials that can bend and fold, while securing mechanisms include adjustable straps and buckles that can be easily engaged and disengaged. This allows the storage device to maintain structural integrity during use (reliability) while being easily collapsed and stored when not needed (adaptability), without permanently interfering with seat functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage device is designed to be easily removed, collapsed, and stored in a compact form when not in use. The flexible construction allows the device to be folded into a small package that can be stored in a vehicle compartment or under the seat, enabling full seat utilization when storage functionality is not required.
3Reliability
If a complex securing mechanism is used to prevent items from sliding during abrupt stops, then item retention is improved, but the device becomes more difficult to install and remove
Solution Approach 1:
The securing mechanism is divided into separate, modular components: adjustable straps, buckles, and Velcro fasteners. Each component performs a specific function and can be independently adjusted or replaced. This segmentation allows for easy installation and removal while providing reliable item retention, as each segment contributes to the overall securing function without creating a complex interdependent system.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing mechanism utilizes adjustable parameters such as strap length, buckle position, and Velcro engagement strength. These parameters can be modified to optimize both retention reliability and installation ease. For example, the straps can be adjusted to provide sufficient tension to prevent item sliding during abrupt stops, while still allowing quick release when the device needs to be removed.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the storage device covers the entire seat surface, then protection and storage space are maximized, but the seat becomes less accessible for passenger entry and exit
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device is designed to cover only the specific areas of the seat where items are typically placed, such as the seat cushion surface and lower backrest areas. The flexible material allows the device to conform to the seat contours and can be positioned to provide maximum protection and storage while leaving the upper backrest and seat edges accessible for passenger entry, exit, and comfort. This localized coverage approach maximizes protection without compromising seat accessibility.
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
Provides secure, organized storage for various items, prevents sliding, and protects the seat from damage or soiling, while being easily deployable and stowable.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible apron or cover with elastic properties
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seat-top storage device has a lower layer formed from a flexible material configured to overlay and conform to portions of a vehicle seat. An upper layer of a flexible sheet material is coupled along side edges to the lower layer to define an interior space between the lower and upper layers. An opening of the device allows access to the interior space through the opening. A closure device is provided for selectively opening and closing the opening.