Calf Rest Seating Assembly with Shape Memory Alloy Wire Massage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seating systems lack effective massaging features that provide comfortable and adjustable support for the calf area, particularly in terms of dynamic pressure application.
Innovation Solution
A seating assembly with a calf rest and a shape memory alloy wire that moves between an at-rest and contracted condition, driven by electrical current, to apply pressure and create a massage effect, integrated with a foam body featuring contoured and sloped troughs to accommodate leg shapes and distribute force comfortably.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wire is used to provide massaging features, then dynamic pressure application is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical massaging mechanisms with a simpler electrical system. A wire (element 60) is used to apply pressure to the calf rest, controlled by a controller (element 64) that regulates current flow. This substitution of mechanical complexity with electrical control achieves dynamic pressure application while reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state or properties of the wire through electrical current control. The controller regulates current flow to the wire, changing its temperature and physical properties to achieve different pressure levels. This parameter-based control enables versatile massaging features through a simple wire element rather than complex mechanical systems.
2Ease of operation
If a foam body with contoured troughs is used, then comfort and support are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The foam body (element 30) features local quality variations with contoured troughs (elements 32, 34) that are specifically shaped to accommodate different parts of the leg. The troughs have varying depths and contours - the first trough for the calf and the second trough for the ankle - providing localized comfort and support where needed rather than uniform structure throughout.
Solution Approach 2:
The foam body incorporates curved and contoured surfaces rather than flat planes. The troughs are formed with smooth curves that follow the natural contours of the human leg, providing ergonomic support. This use of curvature and contoured surfaces improves comfort while the foam material's inherent flexibility accommodates manufacturing tolerances.
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 dynamic massage feature that adjusts to user needs, offering improved comfort and support by intermittently applying pressure to the legs through the contraction and relaxation of the wire, enhancing the overall seating experience.
Implementation Method 1
A seating assembly with a calf rest and a shape memory alloy wire that moves between an at-rest and contracted condition, driven by electrical current
Implementation Method 2
Movement of the wire from the at rest condition to the contracted condition moves a portion of the wire between the first exterior peak and the interior peak away from a bottom of the first trough
Data Source
AI summary
A seating assembly comprises a calf rest coupled to a seat base and having a body that comprises a first trough that extends from a first exterior peak to an interior peak and a second trough that extends from a second exterior peak to the interior peak. The seating assembly also comprises a wire that extends across the first trough from the first exterior peak to the interior peak, the wire being operable between an at rest condition and a contracted condition, wherein movement of the wire from the at rest condition to the contracted condition moves a portion of the wire between the first exterior peak and the interior peak away from a bottom of the first trough. The seating assembly further comprises a controller that prompts electrical current to be supplied to the wire to move the wire from the at rest condition to the contracted condition.