Vehicle Work Surface Locking Sections for Secure Stow and Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumers seek vehicles with innovative features and functionality that enhance usability and versatility, particularly in terms of work surfaces that can be easily deployed and stowed within the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A work surface for a vehicle comprising a first section and a central section, with pivotable edges and lock assemblies that allow for deployment and stowage, featuring channels and lockable posts for secure positioning, and optional support legs for use outside the vehicle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the work surface is designed to be deployable and stowable within the vehicle, then versatility and space utilization are improved, but structural complexity and reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The work surface is divided into multiple sections (first section, second section, central section) that can be independently positioned and locked. Each section can be deployed or stowed separately, allowing the structure to adapt to different space requirements while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The work surface incorporates movable sections with pivotable edges that transition between fixed and movable states. The lock assemblies enable dynamic reconfiguration, allowing sections to be locked in deployed positions for use or returned to stowed positions for compact storage, providing adaptability without permanent structural complexity
2Reliability
If lock assemblies are added to secure the work surface sections, then reliability and stability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock assemblies are designed to automatically engage with the channels when sections are positioned correctly. The posts self-align with the channels and lock into place without requiring additional actuation mechanisms, providing reliable section retention while minimizing added complexity through self-locking functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The lock assemblies serve multiple functions: they secure sections in deployed positions, enable stowage by allowing sections to return to compact positions, and provide structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, maintaining reliability while controlling overall device complexity
3Ease of operation
If the work surface sections are made movable between stowed and deployed positions, then ease of operation is improved, but stability and reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The work surface sections are designed with pivotable edges that allow smooth transitions between stowed and deployed positions. The movable design enables easy operation while the ability to lock in fixed positions maintains structural stability when deployed for use
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable couplings are pre-configured to guide sections into correct positions during deployment. The edges are designed to align with lock channels before engagement, ensuring that sections are properly positioned before locking occurs, which maintains stability while enabling ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
A work surface for a vehicle includes a first section, a central section, and a first lock assembly. The first section includes a proximal edge and a distal edge. The first section defines a channel therein. The central section includes a first end and a second end. The first end of the central section is positioned adjacent to the proximal edge of the first section. The proximal edge of the first section is pivotably coupled to the first end of the central section. The first section is movable between a stowed position and a fully-deployed position relative to the central section. The first lock assembly is coupled to the central section. The first lock assembly includes a post that is operable between a retracted position and an extended position. The fully-deployed position of the first section arranges the channel defined by the first section to receive the post.