Sliding Console Armrest Guide Assembly for Rattle-Free Operation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing console sliding armrest designs are prone to malfunction and reliability issues due to multiple components that are susceptible to environmental factors and misalignment, leading to sticking and slipping problems, which complicates the sliding operation and increases manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A console sliding armrest assembly with a simplified guide assembly featuring a slider frame, guide plate, and a spring-biased rail system, where the rail is protected within a 'C' shaped channel to prevent environmental contamination, and a resilient arm with detents limits sliding movement, ensuring stable operation and reduced component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple biasing assemblies with multiple components are used to facilitate sliding movement, then the sliding operation can be controlled, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to susceptibility to environmental contamination and component failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate biasing assemblies into a single integrated biasing assembly. The first and second biasing members are merged into one component that provides both biasing forces, reducing the total number of parts from four (two rails, two biasing members) to three (two rails, one biasing assembly). This integration reduces complexity and improves reliability by eliminating potential failure points while maintaining the controlled sliding operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The single biasing assembly performs multiple functions that were previously distributed across separate components. It provides biasing force for both the first and second rails, maintains contact between the rails and slide assembly, and compensates for environmental contamination effects. This multi-functional design simplifies the overall structure while ensuring reliable operation throughout the product lifecycle.
2Ease of operation
If multiple biasing assemblies with multiple components are used to facilitate sliding movement, then the sliding operation can be controlled, but the manufacturing cost increases due to the number of components required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple biasing components into a single integrated assembly, directly reducing the total part count. This consolidation reduces manufacturing costs by decreasing the number of components that need to be produced, inventoried, and assembled. The single biasing assembly can be manufactured as one unit or pre-assembled module, simplifying the supply chain and reducing assembly time and labor costs.
3Ease of operation
If a complex biasing assembly with multiple components is used, then the sliding movement can be facilitated, but the assembly is susceptible to environmental contamination and malfunction over time
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the biasing functions into a single assembly, the patent reduces the number of interfaces and joints where environmental contaminants can enter and cause malfunction. Fewer separate components mean fewer potential failure points and less surface area exposed to contaminants like dust, moisture, and debris, thereby improving resistance to environmental degradation while maintaining smooth sliding movement.
4Ease of operation
If multiple separate biasing assemblies are used, then the sliding operation can be controlled, but the device complexity increases prohibitive from cost and reliability standpoint
Solution Approach 1:
The patent directly addresses device complexity by merging multiple separate biasing assemblies into one integrated unit. The single biasing assembly contains both biasing members and their mounting structures, reducing the component count from four separate parts to three integrated components. This simplification makes the overall device less complex while preserving the controlled sliding operation capability.
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 solution provides a reliable, rattle-free sliding mechanism that is less susceptible to environmental elements, easier to manufacture, and offers improved long-term reliability with reduced component complexity, ensuring stable vertical support and lateral stability for the armrest.
Implementation Method 1
A spring may be disposed between the slider frame and the rail. The spring may be engaged to either the slider frame or the rail for biasing the rail against the guide plate.
Implementation Method 2
A resilient arm may be connected adjacent a forward end of the console lid. The arm may include a detent engageable with one or more catches
Data Source
AI summary
A console sliding armrest assembly for a vehicle includes a storage compartment having an opening for allowing ingress and egress of objects, and a console lid pivotally connected to the storage compartment. The lid may include a sliding armrest operatively engaged therewith. A guide assembly may be disposed within the lid for guiding the armrest, and may include a slider frame connected to the armrest. A guide plate may be connected to the lid for supporting the armrest, and a rail may be secured in the slider frame. The guide plate may be slidably engaged with the rail for allowing sliding movement of the armrest. A spring may be disposed between the slider frame and the rail, and may be engaged to either the slider frame or the rail for biasing the rail against the guide plate, and for thereby regulating tension in the guide assembly.