Vehicle Display Deployment Actuator Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a low-cost, compact assembly capable of deploying an electronic device with a display screen in a vehicle, as existing solutions are either costly or complex.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional, electrically powered linear actuator subassembly with a motor-driven screw-drive and threaded member is used to deploy an electronic device along a non-linear path, allowing the device to be moved from a stowed position to a viewing position while supporting it and supplying electrical signals within a vehicle's passenger compartment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a motor-driven mechanism is used to deploy the display device, then the device can be automatically positioned, but the complexity and cost of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex motor-driven mechanical systems with a simpler mechanism. The display device is deployed using a spring-loaded pop-up mechanism combined with a cam-based locking system, eliminating the need for motors while achieving automatic deployment through vehicle vibration or impact triggers.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device uses the vehicle's own vibrations and movements during normal operation to trigger its deployment. The mechanism is designed to automatically pop up when subjected to specific vibration patterns, eliminating the need for external power sources or control systems.
2Reliability
If a pop-up mechanism is used to emerge from the dashboard, then the display is protected when not in use, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The display device is nested within the dashboard housing, with the display unit contained inside a retractable housing that fits within the dashboard cavity. When deployed, the display housing emerges from the dashboard; when retracted, it is fully contained, providing protection without requiring complex external covers or doors.
3Ease of operation
If the display unit is always visible, then it is easily accessible, but it is exposed to dust and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The display device transitions between static protected state (retracted in dashboard) and dynamic accessible state (popped up for use). The mechanism responds to vehicle operation conditions, automatically deploying when the vehicle is in motion and protecting when parked, optimizing both accessibility and protection dynamically.
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 cost-effective and compact mechanism for deploying and retracting electronic devices with display screens in vehicles, ensuring reliable operation and efficient electrical connectivity.
Implementation Method 1
A bi-directional, electrically powered linear actuator subassembly mounted on the base includes a motor-driven screw-drive and a threaded member mounted on the screw-drive to linearly move along a longitudinal axis of the screw-drive upon rotation of the screw-drive
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly capable of deploying an electronic device having a display screen from a stowed position towards a viewing position and simultaneously supporting the device and supplying electrical signals to the device in the viewing position within a passenger compartment of a vehicle is provided. A device holder is capable of movably holding the device and is supported for rotation about a rotational axis at a distal end of an elongated support. A bi-directional, electrically powered, linear actuator subassembly is mounted on a base and includes a motor-driven screw-drive and a threaded member mounted on the screw-drive to linearly move along a longitudinal axis of the screw-drive upon rotation of the screw-drive. The threaded member is connected to a proximal end of the elongated support to lift the elongated support to deploy the device along a predetermined, non-linear path upon rotation of the screw-drive.