Vehicle Storage Platform With Sliding Linkage for Lowered Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems in vehicles, such as four-wheel-drive and commercial vehicles, face challenges in providing convenient access to items stored in elevated positions, particularly when the storage compartments are mounted above the floor level, making retrieval of items like car fridges or tool boxes inconvenient due to their high lids.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a linear displacement mechanism and linkage arrangement allows the storage platform to move between a storage position and two access positions, with the second access position being lower than the first, facilitating easier retrieval by sliding the platform between these positions using a sliding mechanism and actuating means like an offset lever and gas strut.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the storage platform is positioned at a high elevation to maximize vehicle cargo space, then the storage capacity and space utilization are improved, but the accessibility and ease of retrieving items becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The storage platform is transformed from a static fixed-position structure to a dynamic movable structure that can change its position between a high storage position (maximizing cargo space) and a low access position (improving accessibility). The platform is equipped with a displacement mechanism including sliding rails, sliding members, and actuating means that enable it to move vertically along the vehicle walls, allowing users to easily access items without compromising storage capacity when positioned high.
2Ease of operation
If a sliding mechanism is added to move the storage platform horizontally, then the accessibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The displacement mechanism is divided into two independent segmentation components: a horizontal sliding mechanism (with sliding rails and sliding members) and a vertical actuating mechanism (with linkages and actuators). This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, making the overall system more manageable and easier to implement while achieving both horizontal and vertical movement capabilities for enhanced accessibility.
3Device complexity
If the storage platform is fixed at a high position, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the ease of retrieving items from elevated positions becomes inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The storage platform incorporates self-service capabilities through integrated actuating means (such as electric motors, hydraulic cylinders, or pneumatic actuators) that enable automatic or semi-automatic displacement. The system can be controlled via remote controls, buttons, or sensors to automatically move the platform to the desired position, reducing the physical effort required by users and making item retrieval convenient without significantly increasing structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention provides for an apparatus for storing one or more items. The apparatus comprises a first part adapted to be mounted to a surface or a wall and a second part mounted by a linkage arrangement to a sliding mechanism that can slidably move relative to the first part. The second part is adapted to store or hold one or more items. The second part is movable relative to the first part such that the second part can be moved from a storage position to a first access position at which the second part is at one level. The linkage arrangement is operative to move the second part from the first access position to a second access position, the second access position being located at a level spaced from that of the first access position.