AirSleeper Vehicle Occupant Support with Load Limiting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current passenger transport systems in vehicles lack optimal safety, utility, and comfort features, particularly in accommodating passengers during varying conditions such as impact loads and differing passenger needs like child safety.

Innovation Solution

The AirSleeper structure and latch assembly provide enhanced safety and comfort through robust support structures, load limiting mechanisms, and adjustable configurations, while the vehicle child support system incorporates side-impact isolation technology and adjustable seating for optimal protection and convenience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If robust support structures and load limiting mechanisms are implemented, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesafetyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure is divided into multiple independent components including latch assemblies, load limiters, shear planes, and support flanges. Each component performs a specific safety function and can operate independently, allowing the system to maintain safety while managing complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Load limiters are pre-installed in the latch assemblies to prevent excessive force transmission to the occupant support during impact events. These load limiters act as beforehand cushioning elements that activate automatically when load thresholds are exceeded, improving safety without requiring complex control systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

2Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable configurations and multiple support positions are provided, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The occupant support system incorporates movable components including adjustable seat positions, reclining mechanisms, and movable leg rests. These dynamic elements allow the support structure to adapt to different passenger configurations and comfort requirements while maintaining a relatively simple underlying mechanical framework

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The latch assemblies and support flanges are designed to serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable adjustable positioning, and incorporate load-limiting safety features. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby managing complexity while enhancing adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10173779B2Vehicle occupant support
Publication Date: 2019.01.08 RAJASINGHAM ARJUNA INDRAESWARAN
  • US10173779B2 patent drawing
  • US10173779B2 patent drawing
  • US10173779B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Arrangements for safety and comfort in vehicles.