Vehicle Electrical Connector Cover for Protected Cargo Bed Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors in vehicles are not easily accessible for auxiliary device connections, particularly in cargo bed areas, leading to inconvenience and potential incompatibility issues with various electrical devices.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle design featuring a cover-operable aperture system with integrated electrical connectors that move from a concealed to an accessible position, allowing for easy engagement and disengagement of connectors, including a 12-volt electrical connector, and optionally a second connector for extended power reach, facilitating connection of auxiliary devices within the cargo bed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electrical connectors are permanently exposed in cargo bed areas, then accessibility for auxiliary device connections is improved, but aesthetic appearance and protection from environmental factors deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is integrated with a movable cover that transitions between open and closed positions. When the cover is open, the connector is accessible for device connections. When the cover is closed, the connector is concealed and protected from environmental factors. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt its state based on operational needs versus protection needs.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If electrical connectors are concealed within closed covers, then aesthetic appearance and protection are improved, but accessibility for connecting auxiliary devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed to be movable between closed and open states, allowing users to access the electrical connector when needed while maintaining protection when not in use. The dynamic nature of the cover ensures that the connector remains protected during normal operation but becomes accessible when auxiliary devices need to be connected.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrical connectors are provided for extended power reach, then adaptability for different device locations is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system is divided into multiple separate connectors positioned at different locations within the cargo bed. Each connector can independently serve auxiliary devices at different positions, allowing the system to provide extended power reach without requiring a single complex wiring system. This segmentation simplifies the overall design by using multiple simple, standardized connectors rather than one complex integrated system.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a panel that defines an aperture. The vehicle also includes a cover operably coupled to the panel. The cover is operable between a first condition and a second condition. In the first condition, the cover conceals the aperture. In the second condition, access to the aperture is provided. The vehicle further includes an electrical connector coupled to the cover, such that the electrical connector moves with the cover as the cover moves between the first and second conditions. Movement of the cover from the first condition to the second condition reveals the electrical connector.