Motor Vehicle Storage Cover Opening Assistance Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle storage devices with opening assistance mechanisms are complex to implement and aesthetically unappealing due to the presence of multiple separate parts and visible thrust mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A storage device design where the elastic return member acts on both the locking mechanism and the push-piece, reducing the number of components and integrating the push-piece with the locking mechanism, thus simplifying the design and improving aesthetics by positioning the push-piece close to the locking mechanism, which is not visible when the cover is open.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a separate thrust mechanism is provided for opening assistance, then the opening path precision and perceived quality are improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple separate parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the thrust mechanism with the locking mechanism into a single integrated structure. The locking mechanism includes a locking element that acts as the thrust mechanism, eliminating the need for separate parts. This integration maintains precise opening path control while reducing device complexity and the number of components to be assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element serves multiple functions: it locks the cover in the closed position, provides opening assistance through its thrust action, and indicates proper closing. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated thrust mechanism parts, resolving the contradiction between precision and complexity.
2Ease of operation
If the thrust mechanism is arranged across from the edge of the cover, then the opening assistance function is provided, but the esthetics are deteriorated due to visibility when the cover is open
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the visible portion of the thrust mechanism from the cover edge area and relocates it to the locking mechanism structure that remains hidden when the cover is open. The locking element provides the thrust function while being positioned such that it is not visible in the open position, thus maintaining aesthetics while preserving opening assistance.
3Reliability
If multiple separate parts are used for locking and thrust mechanisms, then the functions are well-defined, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking mechanism and thrust mechanism into a single integrated locking element. This merging reduces the number of parts that need to be assembled while maintaining clear functional definition through the design of the locking element's geometry and its interaction with the retaining element and push-piece.
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 opening assistance with fewer parts, maintaining high 'perceived quality' and esthetic appeal by using a single elastic return member for both functions, enhancing user experience and assembly efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic return member being arranged to return the locking mechanism to the locked position when the actuating member is not actuated
Data Source
AI summary
A storage device, including a storage body and a cover that is movable between an open position and a closed position. The device includes a locking mechanism that is movable between a locking position and an unlocking position, an elastic return member being arranged so as to move the locking mechanism back into the locking position. The device includes at least one pusher part that is movable between a refracted position and an extracted position in which the pusher part keeps the cover in a partially open position. The elastic return member is arranged so as to push the pusher part into the extracted position thereof when the locking mechanism is in the unlocking position.