Steering Wheel Work Table Structure for Stable In-Vehicle Use
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for working in a motor vehicle are inadequate, as they lack a convenient, stable, and comfortable work surface, often requiring workers to contort their bodies to access tools, leading to discomfort and reduced productivity.
Innovation Solution
A portable motor vehicle work table supported by the steering wheel, featuring a large rectangular panel with angled gravity studs and a stabilizing bar for stability, a shelf for tools, and a collapsible design for easy storage, allowing for a secure and adjustable work surface directly in front of the driver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a work surface is placed on the passenger seat or console, then a work surface is provided, but the worker must contort their body to access tools and the steering wheel obstructs work progress
Solution Approach 1:
The work table is divided into a work surface portion and a support structure portion. The support structure includes clamping means that can be independently adjusted to secure to the steering wheel, while the work surface is positioned separately at an optimal working height and angle, eliminating the need for body contortion
Solution Approach 2:
The work surface is positioned in a different spatial dimension - directly in front of the driver at elbow level rather than on the passenger seat or console. This dimensional repositioning moves the work surface from a horizontal plane to an inclined plane that aligns with the driver's natural working posture
2Ease of operation
If a steering wheel desk is created, then a work surface is provided in front of the driver, but the work surface is too small and unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure acts as a counterbalancing element that compensates for the weight and instability of the work surface. The clamping means secure to the steering wheel with sufficient force to prevent movement, while the angled support provides structural rigidity that counteracts any forces applied to the work surface during use
Solution Approach 2:
The work surface is designed with an inclined plane geometry rather than a flat horizontal surface. This angular configuration (typically 15-30 degrees from horizontal) provides both stability by distributing loads along the inclined plane and increases effective working area by utilizing the vertical space in front of the driver
3Ease of operation
If a horizontal work surface is used, then a work surface is provided, but very little space remains between the worker and the desk edge for physical maneuvers
Solution Approach 1:
The work surface transitions from a horizontal configuration to an inclined configuration, utilizing the vertical dimension to create additional workspace. This angular arrangement allows the work surface to extend further forward while maintaining adequate clearance below for the driver's hands and arms to move freely
4Stability of the object's composition
If a steering wheel supported work table is created, then a stable work surface is provided, but the structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the work surface, acts as a clamping mechanism to secure to the steering wheel, and functions as an adjustable mounting system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping means incorporates adjustable parameters that allow the work table to adapt to different steering wheel sizes and vehicle types. This adjustability is achieved through movable components that can be positioned to match various steering wheel diameters and shapes, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-size structures
Data Source
AI summary
This invention is constructed of strong lightweight durable material like synthetic thermoplastic resin 5 mm thick or another material with similar characteristics. The material is cut into panels of a specific shape and dimension and bonded together with a proprietary adhesive process. The worktable surface is rectangular. Underneath the work table are two rectangular panels, each attached vertically at a 50° opposing angle, apart 6½″ at the top and 15.5″ at the bottom. These are referred as the angled gravity studs. Underneath and 14″ from the top is a rectangular panel, which is attached horizontally from side to side. This is the stabilizing bar. At the bottom top side of the worktable is a rectangular panel, attached horizontally and from side to side. This is the shelf panel. The work table is grasped by two hands and lifted up and over the crown of the steering wheel. As the work table is directed toward the windshield and then down until the angled gravity studs each come in contact with the steering wheel on either side at approximately 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock thereby securing the table from side to side movement and preventing downward movement. The stabilizing bar contacts the steering wheel at two points on either side of the lower semicircle at approximately 5 o'clock and 7 o'clock. This bar prevents its work table from rocking and in addition serves to lift up the bottom of the work table causing the angled panels to tilt upward creating an angle at the point of contact with the steering wheel which serves to provide a more secure grip on the steering wheel. The work table is now very stable and secure on the steering wheel. The shelf panel or bar serves as a lip or shelf to hold work supplies and work tools. The rectangular tab located underneath at top of the work table between the gravity studs facilitates transport.