Sliding Center Console Pinion Mechanism Third-Row Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixed center consoles in vehicles obstruct access to third-row seats, limiting ingress and egress, while existing solutions do not effectively address the need for movable storage compartments that provide unobstructed access.
Innovation Solution
A sliding center console with a mounting member, carrier, and gearbox assembly, featuring a pinion and teeth mechanism that allows the console to translate between positions, enabling access to third-row seats by moving along a slot or track, and incorporating different materials for enhanced strength and wear resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed center console is used, then storage functionality is provided, but access to third-row seats is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The center console is designed with a movable carrier that can translate between a first position (blocking access) and a second position (allowing access to third-row seats). The carrier moves along a track defined by the mounting member, transforming the static console into a dynamic structure that adapts to different access requirements.
2Ease of operation
If a movable center console is implemented, then access to third-row seats is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical sliding mechanisms with a simplified teeth-and-pinion system. The pinion gear engages with teeth on the carrier, providing controlled movement through rotational motion. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining ease of operation for moving the console between positions.
3Strength
If traditional materials are used for the carrier and teeth, then structural strength is achieved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies using different materials for the carrier and teeth components to optimize the strength-to-weight ratio. The carrier may be formed from a first material while the teeth are formed from a second material, allowing each component to be made from the most suitable material for its specific functional requirements, thereby reducing overall weight while maintaining necessary structural strength.
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 sliding center console provides unobstructed access to third-row seats, enhances storage functionality, and reduces design complexity and weight by using a lightweight, durable plastic construction with a teeth and pinion mechanism, allowing for efficient translation between positions.
Implementation Method 1
The gearbox assembly may be fixed to the mounting member and include a pinion configured to rotate in a first rotational direction or second rotational direction to translate the carrier from the first position to the second position. A portion of the carrier may define a first cavity and the plurality of teeth may extend into the first cavity and engage the pinion.
Data Source
AI summary
A sliding center console may include a mounting member, a carrier, and a gearbox assembly. The carrier may be configured to receive a container and translate between a first position and a second position. The carrier may include a plurality of teeth. The gearbox assembly may be fixed to the mounting member and include a pinion configured to rotate in a first rotational direction or second rotational direction to translate the carrier from the first position to the second position.