Vehicle Covering Device Flexible Cable Drive Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle loading space covering devices are bulky, expensive, and require complex assembly and calibration due to the use of multiple electric drive motors and rigid power transmission means, making them inflexible and difficult to adapt to different vehicle dimensions, leading to increased weight and transportation complexities.
Innovation Solution
A loading space covering device with a single driver per guide rail, utilizing a flexible cable pull mechanism and length adjustment device to ensure continuous tension, allowing bidirectional movement and adaptation to various installation dimensions, reducing the need for multiple motors and enhancing space efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple electric drive motors are used for each side of the luggage compartment cover, then the covering device can achieve synchronized movement, but the production cost increases and assembly work becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate electric drive motors into a single central drive unit that controls both sides of the luggage compartment cover through a flexible coupling system. This merging reduces the number of motors from two to one, simplifying assembly while maintaining synchronized movement through the flexible power transmission mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The single central drive unit serves multiple functions by controlling both the left and right sides of the luggage compartment cover simultaneously. The flexible coupling system allows this single drive to universally control multiple components, replacing the need for separate dedicated motors for each side.
2Reliability
If two separate electric drive motors are provided for both sides of the luggage compartment cover, then synchronized movement can be achieved, but the adjustment and calibration becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the control function into a single central drive unit, the patent eliminates the need for complex calibration between two separate motors. The single drive unit inherently provides synchronized control, simplifying the adjustment process during manufacturing and installation.
3Reliability
If two separate electric drive motors are used, then the luggage compartment cover can be controlled, but the installation space required increases and vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate motor units into one centralized drive, directly reducing the total weight of the system. This consolidation eliminates redundant components and reduces the overall mass that the vehicle must carry, while maintaining full control capability through the flexible coupling mechanism.
4Stability of the object's composition
If rigid guide tubes and riser cables are used for power transmission, then the drive system can be structured, but the adaptability to different installation dimensions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid guide tubes with flexible cables that can bend and adapt to various installation paths and dimensions. This flexibility allows the same drive system to be adapted to different vehicle types and models without requiring custom rigid structural components for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive system transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible system. The cables can change their configuration and path length according to the specific installation requirements, providing adaptability while maintaining structural integrity through proper cable routing and tensioning.
5Stability of the object's composition
If rigid guide and power transmission means are used, then the drive system can be assembled, but the handling during assembly becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cables replace bulky rigid components, making them much easier to handle, route, and install. The cables can be easily manipulated by hand or simple tools, whereas rigid guide tubes would require complex alignment and fastening procedures, significantly improving assembly ease.
6Stability of the object's composition
If a bulky internal structure is used in the drive system, then the components can be housed, but the transport from supplier to manufacturer becomes complex and cost-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cable system creates a much more compact and space-efficient drive system compared to rigid structured housing. This compact design reduces the volume required for packaging and transport, allowing multiple units to be shipped in fewer containers, thereby reducing transportation costs and improving supply chain efficiency.
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 space-saving, flexible, and low-maintenance loading space covering system that can be easily adapted to different vehicle dimensions, reducing weight and transportation costs while maintaining reliable operation over extended periods.
Implementation Method 1
the pull rod (16) being spring-loaded in the winding shaft (14) in a biasing direction towards the retracted position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The device (10) has a flat stretchable covering section (12) e.g. rolling section, rollable on a pivotably mounted winding shaft. A connecting rod (16) is arranged in the section, and is positively driven with an end section in guide rails (18, 20). The rod is coupled with a variable speed drive (34) i.e. gear motor. Drivers (26, 28) are coupled at the speed drive by a flexible and translationally movable bowden cable (38) e.g. wire rope. An elongation adjusting device (80) compensates operationally occurring elongation of the bowden cable.