Vehicle Support Assembly Panel Actuation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support assemblies for vehicles lack versatility and space optimization, as they often require fixed configurations that do not adapt well to different user needs, such as providing leg rests or additional storage.
Innovation Solution
A support assembly for vehicles that includes a base fixed to the interior, a panel, and a track assembly with an actuator, allowing the panel to move from a stored position aligned with the base to a deployed position transverse to it, utilizing a combination of straight and curved tracks and linkages to facilitate this movement, enabling flexible configuration as a leg rest or storage solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed configuration support assembly is used, then the structure is simple and stable, but the adaptability and space optimization are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly employs a movable panel that can transition between a stored position (aligned with the base) and a deployed position (transverse to the base), transforming a static structure into a dynamic one. This dynamic configuration allows the assembly to adapt to different user needs such as providing leg rests or additional storage, directly resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: a base fixed to the vehicle interior, a movable panel, and a track assembly with actuators. This segmentation allows independent movement and positioning of the panel relative to the base, enabling versatile configurations without requiring complete structural redesign, thus balancing adaptability with manageable complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a movable panel with track assembly is used, then the adaptability and functionality are enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable panel serves multiple functions depending on its position: it can provide additional storage when in the stored position aligned with the base, or function as a leg rest when deployed to the transverse position. This multi-functionality is achieved through the track assembly and actuator mechanism, which enable smooth transitions between configurations, enhancing functionality while keeping the added complexity manageable through a unified mechanical system.
3Volume of moving object
If the panel is moved between stored and deployed positions, then the space optimization and user needs are met, but the mechanical complexity of the actuation system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The track assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the actuator and the movable panel. The track provides guided pathways (including curved segments) that constrain and direct the panel's movement, while the actuator provides the driving force. This intermediary track system simplifies the overall mechanical complexity by separating the functions of movement guidance and force application, enabling efficient space optimization through controlled panel positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A support assembly for a vehicle is provided that includes a base fixedly coupled to a vehicle interior, a panel disposed on the base, and a track assembly disposed between the base and the panel. The track assembly includes a track and an actuator slidably coupled with the track and coupled with the panel and movable from a first position to a second position to move the panel from a stored position to a deployed position.