Vehicle Storage Compartment Partition Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle storage compartments require significant force to unlock and move the separating element, leading to discomfort and potential misalignment issues, causing vibrations and a decrease in the perception of quality.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an elastic element that biases the separating element towards a locking position, allowing it to move perpendicularly to the sliding direction, reducing the required force for unlocking and maintaining the locking position, and using a series of locking notches and projections for stable alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If elastic studs are used to block the separating element in positioning notches, then the separating element can be locked in multiple positions, but a large force is required to cause elastic deformation for unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking system transitions from a static elastic deformation mechanism to a dynamic cam-based mechanism. The cam profile is designed to provide automatic engagement with the positioning notches during normal operation, while allowing easy release when force is applied in a different direction (perpendicular to the sliding direction). This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction by making the system both reliable during use and easy to operate for unlocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a new dimension of movement perpendicular to the sliding direction for unlocking. Instead of pulling or pushing along the sliding direction (which requires overcoming elastic forces), the separating element can be lifted or pressed perpendicular to the sliding direction to disengage the cam from the positioning notches. This dimensional change allows unlocking with minimal force.
2Reliability
If elastic studs and positioning notches are used for blocking, then the separating element can be secured in position, but repeated movements cause caulking and play between elements
Solution Approach 1:
The cam-based blocking mechanism dynamically adapts to wear and misalignment over time. The cam profile is designed with tolerance compensation features that maintain effective engagement even after repeated movements. The automatic engagement mechanism ensures consistent positioning without the caulking issues associated with elastic deformation, thereby extending service life while maintaining blocking stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism incorporates built-in tolerance compensation and misalignment accommodation features that anticipate and cushion against wear effects. The engagement geometry is designed to maintain reliable blocking even after repeated movements, preventing the development of play between elements and extending the service life of the blocking mechanism.
3Reliability
If locking elements are designed for secure blocking, then the separating element maintains stable positioning, but the system becomes complex with multiple complementary elements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the blocking and guiding functions into a single integrated cam mechanism. The cam profile simultaneously provides positioning guidance during sliding and automatic engagement with positioning notches for secure blocking. This consolidation reduces the number of separate locking elements needed while maintaining positioning stability, thereby reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam-based mechanism serves multiple functions: it guides the separating element during sliding, automatically engages with positioning notches for secure blocking, and allows easy release through perpendicular movement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate locking and guiding mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable positioning stability.
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 enhances the ergonomic and comfortable operation of the storage compartment, ensuring reliable and durable locking, allowing for various partition configurations to accommodate objects of different sizes without excessive effort or vibration.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element biasing the separating element towards the blocking position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2c
AI summary
The present invention concerns a storage compartment (1) for a vehicle comprising: - a receptacle (2) having an interior volume (3); - a movable partition member (10) that can be moved in a sliding direction (X) and partitions said interior volume (3), and; - a locking device for locking the partition member (10) in the sliding direction (X), comprising a first locking member (61, 71) provided on the receptacle (2) and suitable for engaging with a second locking member (111, 121) provided on the partition member (10); the partition member (10) being movable in an unlocking direction (Z) perpendicular to the sliding direction (X) between a locked position in which the first and second locking members engage and a sliding position in which the first and second locking members are disengaged from each other, and the compartment (1) comprising an elastic member (14) biasing the partition member (10) towards the locked position.