Sliding Glove Box Guide Using Identical Section Bars
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing glove compartment designs for vehicles require numerous components and a precise assembly process to ensure the lock engages correctly, making them complex and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A sliding glove box guide system with parallel guides, each comprising two section bars that constrain movement to a single axial direction, reducing the number of components needed and simplifying assembly by using four identical section bars connected via screws, with enhanced friction surfaces and protrusions for secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional glove compartment with hinged door and lock mechanism is used, then reliable closure is achieved, but the number of components increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the lock mechanism from the glove compartment system. Instead of using a traditional lock and hook assembly, the invention uses a simple sliding door that engages with the dashboard through friction and geometric constraint, reducing the component count while maintaining closure reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional approach by making the door slide horizontally rather than hinge open vertically. This inversion eliminates the need for complex locking mechanisms, as the sliding motion itself provides the closure and retention function through the interaction between the door edge and dashboard opening
2Reliability
If a traditional glove compartment with lock and hook mechanism is used, then secure closure is achieved, but assembly precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding door mechanism is self-aligning and self-retaining. The door's sliding motion automatically positions it correctly in the dashboard opening, and the friction between the door surface and dashboard interior provides automatic retention without requiring precise manual assembly of multiple components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the closure function into separate operational phases (sliding motion, engagement, retention through friction) rather than relying on a single complex locking action. This segmentation allows each phase to be achieved with simpler, more tolerant components
3Adaptability or versatility
If a hinged door glove compartment is used, then traditional design is maintained, but the number of components and assembly steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the door, its support structure, and retention mechanism into a single integrated sliding assembly. The door itself serves as both the closure element and the retaining element through its interaction with the dashboard opening, eliminating the need for separate support brackets and locking components
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding door mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides closure, retention, and structural support. The same sliding motion that closes the compartment also provides the retention force through friction, making the system more efficient and easier to manufacture
Data Source
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AI summary
Guide of a sliding glove box of a vehicle's dashboard comprising a first part (21) being connected to a glove box (1) and a second par (21') being connected to a dashboard (1) wherein the glove box is housed (1), said first part (21) being slidingly connected to said second part (21') according to an axial development direction (r) of the guide. Said first part (21) and said second part (21') are realized by means of respectively a first segment and a second segment of the same section bar. Said first (21) and second part (21') are kept together by being assembled with a glove box and with a compartment (31) of the glove box (1).