Vehicle Handle Extension With Deployable End Effector for Cargo Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accessing items in vehicle cargo areas can be challenging due to the difficulty in removing them without climbing into the cargo area.
Innovation Solution
A selectively detachable and extendible handle with a deployable end effector that allows items to be grasped and removed from the cargo area without entering it, featuring telescoping members and lock mechanisms for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed handle is attached to the vehicle structure, then the handle is always available for use, but it occupies space and may move during vehicle operation
Solution Approach 1:
The handle transitions from a static fixed attachment to a dynamic selectively removable and extendable mechanism. It can be attached when needed and removed when not in use, adapting its presence based on operational requirements rather than being permanently fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle system is divided into separable components: the handle assembly that can be detached from the vehicle structure, and the telescoping segments that can be extended or retracted. This segmentation allows the handle to occupy space only when needed.
2Ease of operation
If the handle is extended to reach items in cargo area, then accessibility is improved, but the handle may interfere with vehicle operation or get damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The handle employs telescoping members that can dynamically adjust between extended and retracted positions. When the vehicle is in operation, the handle can be retracted to avoid interference or damage, while extending only when needed for cargo access.
Solution Approach 2:
The end effector features a non-parallel contact surface specifically designed for grasping cargo items. This localized functional design allows the handle to effectively reach and grasp items without requiring the entire handle structure to be permanently extended.
3Ease of operation
If the end effector is always deployed, then it is ready to grasp items, but it increases device complexity and may interfere with handle retraction
Solution Approach 1:
The end effector is designed to be selectively deployable rather than permanently extended. It can be deployed when cargo grasping is needed and retracted or stowed when not in use, reducing overall device complexity and avoiding interference with handle operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The end effector can be stowed within or along the handle structure when not in use, similar to a nested doll configuration. This allows the grasping mechanism to be compact when not needed while still being accessible when required.
4Volume of moving object
If the handle is made telescoping with multiple members, then space efficiency is improved, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping handle employs nested tubes where smaller diameter tubes are contained within larger diameter tubes. When retracted, the handle components nest within each other, minimizing the volume occupied while maintaining the capability to extend to full length when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle is divided into multiple telescoping members or segments that can slide relative to each other. This segmentation enables compact storage when retracted while providing extended reach capability when deployed, balancing space efficiency with functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly comprises a vehicle structure, a handle that is selectively removable from the vehicle structure, and an end effector at one end of the handle. The handle is selectively moveable along an axis between an extended position and a retracted position. The end effector has a contact surface that is non-parallel with the axis.