Actuating Device Linkage Mechanism for Confined Space Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional actuating devices for fixing rods in motor vehicle headrests face challenges in efficiently rotating and displacing the fixing rod in confined spaces, requiring complex adaptations and assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
The actuating device employs a link arm pivotably attached to the bearing sleeve, connected to a non-rotatably attached pivot head on the fixing rod, allowing for easy assembly and adaptation in tight spaces by rotating the fixing rod via a linkage mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional actuating device with a bearing sleeve and articulated slide is used, then the fixing rod can be displaced, but the device becomes complex and difficult to assemble in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating device is divided into three main segments: bearing sleeve (2), link arm (5), and pivot head (6). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled in a confined space, reducing overall complexity while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of translating the fixing rod directly linearly, the invention uses a pivotable link arm that rotates to achieve displacement. This inversion from linear translation to rotational motion simplifies the mechanism and enables operation in confined spaces.
2Ease of manufacture
If the fixing rod is rotated via a link arm mechanism, then assembly becomes easier in confined spaces, but the mechanism requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The link arm (5) combines multiple functions: it acts as a pivotable connection element, a transmission mechanism, and a structural support. By merging these functions into a single component, the number of parts is minimized while maintaining ease of assembly in confined spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing sleeve (2) serves multiple purposes: it houses the pivotable link arm, provides mounting attachment, and guides the rotation motion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying assembly while achieving the desired rotation capability.
3Volume of moving object
If the dimensions of components are adapted for confined spaces, then the device fits better, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The link arm (5) has different dimensional characteristics at different locations: it is longer in the rotation direction to provide sufficient leverage, while being compact in the radial direction to fit confined spaces. This local differentiation of dimensions optimizes both space utilization and manufacturing feasibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot head (6) is designed with pre-positioned connection elements that align with corresponding features on the link arm and fixing rod. This preliminary design of connection interfaces reduces the need for high-precision field adjustments during assembly, making the device suitable for confined space installation.
Data Source
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AI summary
An actuating device for a fixing rod (7) which is to be displaced in a longitudinal direction and can be rotated in order to release a latching connection (9, 10) has a coupling slide (4) which can be displaced in a bearing sleeve (2) and, via a coupling arm (5) fitted pivotably to the bearing sleeve (2), drives a coupling head (6) which is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the fixing rod (7). As a result, the fixing rod (7) can be rotated when the coupling slide (4) is actuated.