Vehicle Shelf Mechanism for Mobile Device Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle interior components fail to efficiently accommodate and secure multiple sized mobile devices in various orientations, lacking a mechanism for easy deployment and retraction, and a reliable locking system for extended use.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle interior component featuring a base with a mechanism comprising a shelf that moves between retracted and extended positions, supported by a dual-arm system with a spring bias, and a locking mechanism using a button and latch system to secure the shelf in the extended position, allowing for single-handed operation and secure device retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed holder is used to support mobile devices, then the device is securely held, but it cannot accommodate multiple different sized devices or be retracted when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf is designed to be movable rather than fixed, transitioning between retracted and extended positions. The dual-arm mechanism with pivot points enables dynamic adjustment of the shelf position to accommodate different device sizes and orientations, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity by using a relatively simple mechanical linkage system
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is designed to support multiple different sized mobile devices in various orientations (portrait and landscape). The adjustable shelf position and clamping mechanism provide universal compatibility across different device form factors, achieving versatility without requiring multiple separate holders
2Ease of operation
If the shelf is always extended to support devices, then devices can be securely held, but the component occupies space and cannot be retracted when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf transitions from a static extended position to a dynamic system that can be retracted. The spring-loaded dual-arm mechanism automatically adjusts the shelf position, extending when a device is placed and retracting when removed, providing ease of operation while minimizing space occupation when not in use
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the shelf in extended position, then the device remains secure, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded dual-arm mechanism provides automatic locking through the natural spring force that maintains constant pressure on the mobile device. The arms self-adjust and self-lock in the extended position without requiring additional complex locking components, achieving reliable device retention while keeping the mechanism relatively simple
4Ease of operation
If the shelf moves freely between positions, then it is easy to deploy, but it cannot maintain a stable locked position when extended
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element acts as a counterbalancing force that maintains the shelf in the extended position. The spring force compensates for gravitational effects and provides a restoring force that stabilizes the shelf when extended, ensuring stable device retention while allowing easy deployment through simple pressing motion
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
Enables secure, adjustable, and convenient positioning of mobile devices in various orientations, facilitating easy access and use while driving, with the ability to retract when not in use, and a locking mechanism ensuring the device remains secure in the extended position.
Implementation Method 1
The component may comprise a spring. The spring may be configured to couple the lower arm to the upper arm. The spring may be configured to bias the shelf toward the retracted position.
Implementation Method 2
The latch feature of the button may be configured to engage the latch feature of the mechanism to allow movement of the shelf relative to the base. The latch feature of the button may be configured to disengage from the latch feature of the mechanism to block movement of the shelf relative to the base.
Data Source
AI summary
A component for a vehicle interior to position a mobile device in the vehicle interior is disclosed. The component may comprise a base and a mechanism coupled to the base with a shelf configured to move from a retracted position to an extended position. The shelf may support the mobile device in the extended position. The base may comprise a storage area and the mechanism may cover the storage area when the shelf is in the extended position. The mechanism may descend from the base to move the shelf from the extended position to the retracted position. The mechanism may comprise a lower arm coupled to an upper arm by a pin and a spring. The lower arm may slide and rotate to move the shelf between the retracted position and the extended position. The component may comprise a locking mechanism to lock the shelf in the extended position.