Vehicle Trim Element With Retractable Storage Volume
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle trim elements with retractable storage volumes require complex deployment mechanisms, complicating their structure and layout, and occupying space when not in use.
Innovation Solution
A trim element with a covering element comprising two rigid panels connected by a flexible branch forming a bending line, allowing deformation to transition between retracted and deployed positions without a deployment mechanism, simplifying the structure and enhancing aesthetics by making the bending line visible.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a retractable storage volume is provided with a deployment mechanism, then the storage volume can be retracted to free up space in the passenger compartment, but the structure of the trim element is complicated and layout problems arise
Solution Approach 1:
The covering element is segmented into multiple rigid panels connected by flexible branches, allowing the storage volume to be divided into manageable sections that can independently deform and retract without requiring a complex centralized deployment mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The covering element transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one through the introduction of flexible branches that enable deformation between deployed and retracted states, allowing the storage volume to adapt its configuration based on usage requirements
2Area of stationary object
If a deformable structure is used to create a retractable storage volume, then additional room is freed in the passenger compartment when not in use, but the structure requires a mechanism allowing deployment which complicates the trim element
Solution Approach 1:
The covering element is designed to automatically transition between deployed and retracted positions through its inherent deformable structure, eliminating the need for external deployment mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity while still providing the space-saving benefit
3Device complexity
If the covering element is made with rigid panels and flexible branches, then the structure is simplified without requiring a deployment mechanism, but the stability of the panels relative to each other may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible branches are designed with specific curvature characteristics that allow controlled deformation between positions while maintaining structural integrity, enabling the panels to transition smoothly without compromising their relative stability or the overall configuration of the covering element
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 a simplified, aesthetically enhanced trim element that frees up space in the passenger compartment by allowing the storage volume to retract without additional mechanisms, improving passenger comfort and maintaining stability in both positions.
Implementation Method 1
the covering element comprises at least two substantially rigid panels connected to one another by a flexible branch forming a bending line of the panels relative to one another
Implementation Method 2
fastened to the body by at least one fastening edge forming a hinge between the panels and the body
Data Source
AI summary
A trim element having a body and a covering element extending over part of the body. The covering element includes at least two substantially rigid panels connected to one another by a flexible branch forming a bending line of the panels relative to one another and fastened to the body by a fastening edge forming a hinge between the panels and the body, the covering element being deformable around the bending line. The covering element hinges between a retracted position, in which the panels of the covering element are pressed against the body, and a deployed position, in which the panels are moved away from the body, the covering element defining a storage volume with the body in the deployed position.