Retractable Trunk Handle With Sliding Locking Track
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trunk carpet handle devices do not accommodate various user habits and do not provide easy access to storage spaces, as they lack versatility in operation and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A handle device with a housing, a handle unit, and retractable locking units that allow for different finger orientations and operations, featuring a base portion with a track and a slider, and a locking unit that can be retracted or extended to lock or release the handle unit, providing a hook for additional functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed handle device is used in the trunk carpet, then the structure is simple, but it does not accommodate various user habits and reduces versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The handle unit is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to pivot between a stored position (flush with housing) and an extended operational position. This dynamic capability enables users to access the handle in multiple orientations and positions, accommodating different user habits while maintaining a clean, integrated appearance when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle device is divided into separate functional components: a housing, a movable handle unit with base portion and handle portion, and a retractable locking unit. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while contributing to the overall versatility and ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If the handle unit is always exposed, then it is easily accessible, but it increases device complexity and reduces aesthetic integration
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit is pre-positioned in a locked state that holds the handle unit in its stored position within the housing. This preliminary locking action maintains aesthetic integration and reduces visual complexity, while still allowing quick access when needed by simply actuating the release mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle unit is designed to nest within the housing when not in use, with the base portion fitting into a recess and the handle portion retracting alongside the housing surface. This nesting capability allows the handle to be easily accessible when extended while maintaining a clean, integrated appearance when stored.
3Ease of operation
If a retractable locking unit is added to enable handle movement, then handle accessibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted as a separate, dedicated component (the locking unit) that can be independently designed and positioned. This locking unit includes a locking element that engages with the track to secure the handle unit, and a release mechanism that allows easy disengagement. By separating the locking function from the handle unit itself, the overall system becomes more maintainable and easier to manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
A handle device includes: a housing, a handle unit including a base portion and a handle portion. The base portion includes a first track and is pivotably connected to the housing. The handle portion includes a slider movable along the first track and a retractable first locking unit connected to a first side portion of the housing. The first locking unit is positioned at least partially within the first track in a locking position and positioned outside of the first track in an unlocking position.