Motor Vehicle Armrest Adjusting Device Using Linear Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicle armrests with motor-driven adjusting devices have complex structures, making it difficult to use standardized components and complicating installation, especially for side door armrests.
Innovation Solution
A motor-driven adjusting device for a motor vehicle armrest comprising a linear actuator connected to an eccentric, where the linear actuator is used in conjunction with a shared retaining element, such as a plastics retaining plate, to simplify installation and allow for cost-effective and robust construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a scissor jack adjusting device is used, then the armrest can be adjusted, but the structure becomes complex and installation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex scissor jack mechanical system with a linear actuator that uses a lead screw mechanism. This substitution simplifies the overall structure while maintaining the armrest adjustment function, directly resolving the contradiction between adjustability and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a linear actuator that is a standardized component used across multiple automotive applications (window regulators, seat adjustments, etc.). This universal component can perform the armrest adjustment function while being readily available and easy to install, reducing both structural complexity and installation difficulty.
2Ease of operation
If an eccentric with vehicle-fixed axis rotation is used, then the armrest can be adjusted, but standardized components cannot be used and installation is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the custom-designed eccentric rotation mechanism with a linear actuator featuring a lead screw and nut assembly. This standardized mechanical system achieves the same adjustment function while using off-the-shelf components, greatly simplifying both manufacturing and installation processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear actuator serves as an intermediary mechanism that converts rotational motor motion into linear motion through its lead screw and nut assembly. This intermediary mechanism enables standardized component usage while achieving the required armrest adjustment, resolving the contradiction between adjustability and ease of manufacture.
3Ease of operation
If a custom adjusting device is developed, then the armrest adjustment function is achieved, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a linear actuator that is a standardized, mass-produced component found in numerous automotive applications. By leveraging this universal component rather than developing a custom adjusting device, the patent achieves armrest adjustability while significantly reducing production costs through economies of scale and standardized manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent essentially copies the successful design and manufacturing approach of linear actuators already proven in other automotive applications (window regulators, seat adjustments). This copying of an established, mass-produced component solution eliminates the need for expensive custom development while maintaining the required adjustment function.
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 simple, cost-effective, and functionally reliable adjusting device for the armrest's supporting part, enabling easy installation and adjustment, leveraging standardized linear actuators commonly used in motor vehicles for other functions.
Implementation Method 1
the electric motor is designed as a linear actuator connected to the eccentric
Implementation Method 2
an eccentric that can be acted upon by said motor
Data Source
AI summary
An armrest for a motor vehicle, in particular a motor-vehicle side door armrest. In its general structure, the armrest has a stationary base part and a supporting part that is movable relative thereto, and additionally has a motor-driven adjusting device for the supporting part. The adjusting device comprises an electric motor and an eccentric that can be acted upon by the motor. The electric motor is configured as a component of a linear actuator connected to the eccentric.