Vehicle Trim Panel Guide Slot for Customizable Storage Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle cupholders and map pockets are not customizable to meet individual passenger storage needs, limiting their functionality and user satisfaction.
Innovation Solution
A trim storage system with a guide slot and flanges featuring ribs and slots, coupled with a fastener having elastically deformable arms, allows for customizable placement and retention of items such as cupholders and storage receptacles without requiring special tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-size cupholders and map pockets are used in vehicle doors, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the storage system cannot be customized to meet individual passenger needs
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into modular components: a guide structure with multiple pockets, and separate fasteners that can be independently positioned. Each fastener can be placed in different pockets along the guide slot, allowing customization without redesigning the entire system. This segmentation enables adaptability while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from fixed storage locations to dynamically reconfigurable storage. The fasteners can be removed and repositioned to different pockets along the guide slot, allowing the storage configuration to adapt to different passenger needs. This dynamic reconfigurability provides versatility while keeping the base structure simple.
2Adaptability or versatility
If customizable storage fasteners are added to vehicle doors, then passenger storage needs can be met, but the installation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener incorporates an integrated coupling mechanism with elastic arms that automatically engage with the guide slot structure. The elastic arms deform during insertion and then spring back to lock the fastener in place, eliminating the need for separate installation steps or specialized tools. This self-service mechanism simplifies installation despite the added customization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic arms of the coupling mechanism change their physical state during installation - deforming under insertion force and then recovering to create the locked position. This parameter change (from deformed to recovered state) provides an automatic locking action that simplifies the installation process while enabling secure attachment of customizable storage components.
3Ease of operation
If multiple guide slots and fasteners are provided for customization, then storage flexibility increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide slot structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the door panel, defines multiple pocket locations for fastener placement, and guides the insertion and positioning of fasteners. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, allowing flexibility without proportional increases in complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide slot and pocket structure are pre-configured during manufacturing, establishing all possible fastener positions in advance. This preliminary action allows the fasteners to be simply placed into pre-defined locations during installation, providing flexibility without requiring complex real-time adjustments or additional components during the customization process.
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
Enables passengers to easily customize storage options, enhancing user satisfaction by providing flexible and aesthetically appealing storage solutions that meet personal needs.
Implementation Method 1
The coupling portion includes a first arm opposite a second arm, the first arm and the second arm are elastically deformable to removably couple the fastener to the pocket
Data Source
AI summary
A trim storage system for a vehicle includes a guide slot that extends along a longitudinal axis, and a guide including a first flange opposite a second flange. The first flange defines one or more first ribs that extend from the first flange, and the second flange defines one or more second ribs that extend toward a respective first rib of the first ribs to define one or more slots spaced apart along the longitudinal axis. A pocket is defined between adjacent slots of the slots. The trim storage system includes a fastener removably coupled to the pocket of the guide having an attachment portion configured to retain an item.