Segmented Vehicle Storage Flap With Bistable Space Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle storage compartments face challenges in providing sufficient space while maintaining robustness, resistance to dirt and damage, and a visually pleasing appearance, especially when holding smaller objects during motion.
Innovation Solution
A storage compartment design featuring a cover flap with multiple segments connected via pivot axes and biasable joint elements, allowing for bistable positioning to optimize space usage and secure object holding, while blending into the vehicle's interior aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the storage compartment space is enlarged to provide more storage capacity, then the storage volume increases, but the structural robustness and stability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The cover flap is divided into multiple segments (first segment, second segment, third segment) that can pivot independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the cover flap to adapt its configuration - forming a more enclosed structure when closed (providing stability) and opening to enlarge storage volume when needed. The segments are connected via pivot axes allowing relative movement between them.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover flap transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one with multiple stable positions. It can assume a first stable position (closed, providing structural stability and secure holding) and a second stable position (open, providing enlarged storage volume). The biasable joint elements enable this dynamic reconfiguration while maintaining stability at each position.
2Reliability
If the cover flap is made rigid to securely hold smaller objects during motion, then the holding stability improves, but the adaptability for different storage needs decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover flap is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to assume different stable positions depending on storage needs. The biasable joint elements provide controlled movement while maintaining stability at each position, enabling the structure to adapt between secure closed configuration and open enlarged configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover flap's configuration parameters (position, orientation of segments) can change between defined stable states. The biasable joint elements enable controlled parameter changes while maintaining stability during operation, allowing transition between holding-stable closed position and space-enlarged open position.
3Volume of moving object
If the storage compartment is designed to be spacious to accommodate larger items, then the storage capacity increases, but the ability to securely hold smaller objects decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented cover flap can selectively open or close different portions of the storage compartment. When smaller objects need secure holding, the cover flap can be in the closed first stable position, creating an enclosed space. When larger items need accommodation, it can transition to the open second stable position, enlarging the accessible storage volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic reconfiguration capability allows the storage compartment to adapt its effective volume and enclosure level based on what is being stored. The biasable joint elements enable reliable transitions between configurations while maintaining structural integrity for secure holding when closed and providing space expansion when open.
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 design offers efficient use of space, secure holding of smaller objects, and adaptability for larger items, maintaining robustness and visual appeal by utilizing biasable joint elements and a segmented cover flap that can pivot between stable positions.
Implementation Method 1
The joint elements may be elastically biasable or biased for exerting the force in a direction of the first and/or second position
Implementation Method 2
each of the segments is connected to at least one further one of the segments movably about a respective axis
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a storage compartment, in particular a storage compartment for a vehicle, comprising a cover flap which is connected to a carrier panel such that a storage space can be formed between the carrier panel and the cover flap, wherein the cover flap comprises at least two segments and each of the segments is connected to at least one other of the segments movably about a respective axis, wherein the cover flap is movable, by pivoting the segments, between a stable first position and a stable second position, in which the storage space is enlarged compared to the first position. When the cover flap assumes an instable third position between the first position and the second position, is subjected to a force in the direction of the first position or in the direction of the second position. The application further relates to an assembly which includes the storage compartment.