Self-locking Hinge Assembly for Vehicle Desk
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Solution Overview
Problem
Occupants of transportation vehicles face difficulties in comfortably completing paperwork due to the lack of a stable and ergonomic working surface while on the move.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking hinge assembly is integrated into a vehicle seating system, allowing a desk to pivot between a stowed and use position, secured by a finger-grip rotator knob assembly and mounting plate, enabling it to remain locked in place without user interaction during vehicle motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a desk is integrated into a vehicle seating system to provide a working surface, then occupants can comfortably complete paperwork, but the desk may obstruct the driver's view or access to controls when not properly positioned
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly enables the desk to dynamically change position between stowed and deployed states, allowing it to adapt to different operational requirements. When not in use, the desk returns to a stowed position that prevents obstruction of the driver's view or access to controls, while providing a stable working surface when deployed.
2Ease of operation
If the desk is made movable to allow pivoting between stowed and use positions, then the desk can be positioned ergonomically, but the desk may become unstable or shift during vehicle motion
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly incorporates a self-locking mechanism that automatically locks the desk in its deployed position without requiring continuous user intervention. The spring-loaded locking pins engage with the knurled knob to maintain the desk's position, providing stability during vehicle motion while allowing easy deployment when needed.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the desk in position, then the desk remains stable during vehicle motion, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through spring-loaded locking pins that automatically engage with the knurled knob. This eliminates the need for additional motors, sensors, or complex control systems, achieving reliable locking while maintaining relatively simple mechanical construction.
4Ease of operation
If the desk is integrated close to the driver's position to be accessible, then ease of access is improved, but the desk may block the driver's view when in the stowed position
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly allows the desk to dynamically position itself in a stowed location that is accessible to the driver when needed but positioned to minimize obstruction of the driver's view. The desk can be quickly deployed to an ergonomic working position or returned to a compact stowed position that maintains clear visibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seating assembly includes a vehicle desk operably coupled to a rear portion of a seatback. The vehicle desk is movable between at least a stowed position and a use position. A hinge assembly includes a finger-grip rotator knob assembly and a moveable element, such as a working surface or desk. The moveable element is operably coupled to, and rotatable with, the finger-grip rotator knob assembly.