Cable Synchronizer for Simultaneous Latch Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for foldable vehicle seats often experience delays and increased stress on latches due to non-simultaneous release of opposing latches, caused by distinct tolerances and flexibility in separate cables, leading to potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A synchronizer system that includes an actuator, a sliding member, and a connecting member with ends coupled to both latches, where the sliding member's movement from a first to a second position uniformly tensions the connecting member, ensuring concurrent unlocking of both latches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If separate cables are used to extend from the actuator mechanism to each latch, then the system can operate with simpler individual cable paths, but the distinct tolerances and flexibility of separate cables cause non-simultaneous release of latches, leading to delays and increased stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate cables into a single connecting member that spans across both latches. This single member is tensioned uniformly by the sliding mechanism, ensuring that both latches are actuated simultaneously. The merging of separate cable paths into one unified structural element eliminates the timing discrepancies caused by individual cable tolerances and flexibilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding member acts as an intermediary between the actuator and the connecting member. It converts the actuator's linear motion into uniform tension distribution along the connecting member, which then simultaneously actuates both latches. This intermediary mechanism ensures synchronous release despite variations in the connecting member's physical properties.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate cables with distinct tolerances are used, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but activation leads to delay between latch releases and increased stresses on latches and surrounding components
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the actuation force into a single connecting member under uniform tension, the system distributes stress evenly across both latches during activation. This prevents the concentrated stress and uneven loading that would occur with separate cables, thereby protecting the latches and surrounding components from excessive forces that could lead to damage.
3Reliability
If a single connecting member is used with a sliding mechanism to ensure synchronous latch release, then simultaneous activation is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding member serves as a compact intermediary that adds minimal complexity while achieving the critical function of synchronous actuation. Its simple linear motion along the connecting member's axis provides a straightforward mechanical solution that doesn't require complex linkages, motors, or control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical state of the connecting member from a relaxed state to a uniformly tensioned state through the sliding mechanism. This parameter change (tension distribution) enables synchronous latch release without requiring complex control mechanisms, relying instead on fundamental mechanical principles of tension and force distribution.
Data Source
AI summary
An actuation system for concurrently actuating a first mechanism and a second mechanism from a first state to a second state includes an actuator and a sliding member operatively engaged with the actuator and movable from a first position to a second position in response to actuation of the actuator. A connecting member has a relaxed state and a taut state. The connecting member includes a first end coupled to the first mechanism, a second end coupled to the second mechanism, and a medial portion cooperative with the sliding member. Movement of the sliding member from the first position to the second position changes the connecting member from the relaxed state to the taut state, whereby the tension is increased in the connecting member.