Sliding Segment Structure for Compact Vehicle Cabin Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing structures for expanding interior space in vehicles lack stability and sealing efficiency while maintaining a low friction loss and compact volume configuration.
Innovation Solution
The structure employs sliding segments arranged in groups with guides oriented at right angles, alternating edge lengths, and sealing lips for low friction loss and high stability, allowing for a compact configuration that expands to maximize usable space with minimal volume increase, and includes supporting struts and flexible supply lines for enhanced usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If sliding segments are arranged in a compact configuration, then the volume is minimized, but the stability and sealing are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding segments are arranged in a nested configuration where segments of different groups slide into one another. In the compact position, the first, second, and third sliding segments are telescopically nested, minimizing the overall volume while maintaining structural integrity through their interconnected design
Solution Approach 2:
The structure is divided into multiple sliding segments (first, second, and third groups) that can independently slide relative to each other. This segmentation allows the structure to maintain stability through distributed support while enabling compact nesting when retracted
2Volume of moving object
If the distance between side walls is reduced, then the compact volume is minimized, but the friction loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
Sealing lips are introduced as intermediary elements at the circumferential contact regions between sliding segments. These sealing lips reduce direct metal-to-metal contact and friction while maintaining the necessary seal, allowing the side walls to be positioned closer together without excessive friction loss
3Reliability
If sealing lips are added to improve sealing, then the sealing efficiency is improved, but the friction loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing lips are designed as flexible elements that can deform to create an effective seal at the circumferential contact regions. This flexibility allows them to maintain sealing efficiency while accommodating the sliding motion with minimal friction, as they conform to the contact surfaces rather than creating rigid resistance
4Stability of the object's composition
If sliding segments are arranged in multiple groups with alternating edges, then the stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding segments feature asymmetric edge designs with alternating inwardly-projecting and outwardly-projecting edges of different lengths. This asymmetric configuration creates interlocking engagement between segments of different groups, enhancing structural stability while the repeating pattern maintains manufacturing simplicity
Data Source
AI summary
In a structure, for example in the form of a trailer cabin (115), which structure is advantageously provided for connection to a vehicle (103), the following are provided as sliding segments: a number of horizontal sliding segments (201) slidable in an expansion direction, vertical sliding segments (136) slidable in an extension direction at a right angle to the expansion direction, and double sliding segments (139) which are slidable both in the expansion direction and in the extension direction and which are connected to a central fixed segment (403). Thus, when the sliding segments (136, 139, 201) are transferred from a pushed-together compact position into a pulled-out expansion position, an interior space of the structure (115) can be considerably enlarged by a usable space in comparison with a minimum volume in the compact position.