Vehicle Console Assembly with Self-Opening Door and Gesture Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage solutions in vehicles face challenges in controlling the movement of heavy panels between open and closed positions efficiently, especially under high G-force conditions, and require additional space for locking mechanisms, which compromises storage capacity.
Innovation Solution
A console assembly with a self-opening door and storage drawer that uses a biasing mechanism, such as a constant force spring, and a gear damper to move without electrical energy, combined with a gesture-actuated latching device, to provide easy access to stowed items while maintaining the panel in a closed position during crashes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a heavy panel is used for the storage compartment door, then the panel provides sufficient structural strength and durability, but it requires more force to move and may slam down with great force when closing
Solution Approach 1:
A counterweight mechanism is integrated into the console assembly that offsets the weight of the storage compartment door and tray. The counterweight system uses a spring-loaded mechanism that provides upward force to balance the downward force of the heavy panel, reducing the effort required to open and close the door while preventing uncontrolled slamming.
Solution Approach 2:
A damper mechanism is incorporated into the panel assembly that provides controlled resistance during closing motion. The damper absorbs excess kinetic energy before the panel reaches the closed position, preventing slamming and bouncing while maintaining smooth, controlled movement throughout the closing sequence.
2Ease of operation
If a gear damper is added to control panel movement speed, then the panel moves smoothly without slamming, but the device complexity increases and additional space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The damper mechanism is integrated into the existing console assembly structure by combining it with the hinge mechanism and counterweight system. The damper is mounted within the available space of the console housing, sharing structural elements with other components to minimize additional complexity and space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the rotational joint for the door, incorporates the damper for controlled movement, and integrates with the counterweight mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
3Reliability
If a G-force sensor lock is added to prevent panel movement during crashes, then crash safety regulations are met, but the device complexity increases and storage space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
A latch mechanism is integrated into the console assembly that automatically engages under high G-force conditions to prevent the storage compartment door from opening during crashes. The latch uses spring-loaded detents and lugs that remain engaged during normal operation but automatically release or lock based on detected crash forces, providing passive safety without requiring active sensing or complex control systems.
4Reliability
If a handle and locking mechanism are added to restrain the door, then the door can be securely locked, but the storage space within the glove box is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated into the door structure itself, with latch members and detents formed as part of the door assembly rather than as separate add-on components. The handle mechanism is incorporated into the existing door panel design, minimizing the space required for locking functionality and maximizing available storage volume.
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 allows for controlled, energy-efficient movement of storage components, meeting crash regulations without additional large devices, and provides easy access to stored items without compromising storage space.
Implementation Method 1
An actuator is configured to controllably move the support member away from the retracted position towards the extended position via stored potential energy without consuming electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
Gear dampers are often used in automotive interior applications to control the moving speed of components such as pocket lids, trays and glove boxes. The viscosity of the damper fluid limits the movement of the damper paddle and thus controls the rotational speed of the gear and the component
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly capable of deploying stowed items in a passenger compartment of a vehicle is provided. The assembly includes a door and a storage unit having an opening for allowing ingress and egress of items into and out of a storage compartment of the unit, respectively, in an open position of the door. A support member supported within the storage compartment is configured to movably hold an item in the storage compartment and is configured to allow the item to be readily removed from the unit in an extended position of the support member. An actuator is configured to controllably move the support member away from its retracted position towards its extended position through stored potential energy without consuming electrical energy. The door moves towards its open position during movement of support member towards its extended position.