Armrest assembly with internal motion damper
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing armrest assemblies for vehicle seats lack an efficient mechanism to smoothly transition between usage and storage positions, often resulting in sudden movements that can be uncomfortable for occupants.
Innovation Solution
An armrest assembly with a rotational damper system comprising first and second shaft assemblies and a rotational damper mechanism that controls the movement between usage and storage positions, incorporating a first and second shaft assembly with bushings and inserts to facilitate smooth rotation, and a detent assembly for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the armrest assembly is made movable between usage and storage positions, then the adaptability and space utilization are improved, but the movement control and smoothness deteriorate due to lack of damping mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
A rotational damper is introduced as an intermediary component between the armrest body and the seat. The damper includes a first damper part fixed to the shaft and a second damper part fixed to the armrest body, with damping elements that provide controlled resistance during rotation. This intermediary damping mechanism mediates the transition between positions, transforming sudden movements into smooth, controlled transitions while preserving the armrest's mobility and adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If the armrest assembly allows free rotational movement, then the ease of operation is improved, but the positioning precision and stability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational damper acts as a mediator that provides both damping control during movement and positional stability at rest. The damping elements create controlled resistance that prevents free rotation, ensuring the armrest settles at precise positions rather than drifting. This maintains ease of operation through controlled movement freedom while achieving positioning precision through the damper's stabilizing effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The damping characteristics of the rotational damper are designed to change with rotational velocity and position. During movement, the damper provides resistance that controls the speed and smoothness of transition. When the armrest approaches its final position, the damping force adjusts to enable precise settling. This dynamic parameter change allows the system to maintain both ease of operation and positioning precision across different operational phases.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a smooth and controlled transition between usage and storage positions, enhancing occupant comfort by minimizing sudden movements and allowing for precise armrest positioning.
Implementation Method 1
A rotational damper is located in the interior space of the armrest body and includes a first damper part and a second damper part attached to the first damper part for relative rotational movement. The first damper part is fixed to the first shaft, and the second damper part is fixed to the armrest body.
Data Source
AI summary
An armrest assembly includes an armrest body that defines an interior space. A first shaft extends from a first side of the armrest body along an armrest axis and is attached to the armrest body for relative rotational movement about the armrest axis. A second shaft extends from a second side of the armrest body along the armrest axis and is attached to the armrest body for relative rotational movement about the armrest axis. A rotational damper is located in the interior space of the armrest body and includes a first damper part and a second damper part attached to the first damper part for relative rotational movement. The first damper part is fixed to the first shaft, and the second damper part is fixed to the armrest body.