Cushion Pan Integrated Module Attachment System

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Solution Overview

Problem

The optimization of utilizable space in vehicles is hindered by the need for lighter materials and reduced components, particularly in integrating electronic systems without compromising structural integrity or increasing weight and bulk.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable cushion pan with downwardly-extending connection members allows for direct integration and repositioning of an electronic seating module, minimizing the need for additional brackets and securing devices, thereby optimizing space and reducing weight.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of moving object

If traditional mounting brackets and securing devices are used to integrate electronic systems, then structural integrity is maintained, but weight and bulk increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveweightVSAvoidstructural integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting brackets and securing devices are merged into the cushion pan structure itself. The cushion pan includes integrated mounting surfaces and attachment features that directly secure electronic systems, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets and reducing overall weight while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The cushion pan is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a structural support element and as a mounting platform for electronic systems. The integrated design allows the cushion pan to perform multiple functions: providing structural integrity, supporting electronic components, and enabling easy installation without additional specialized mounting hardware.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If electronic systems are integrated into the seating assembly, then functionality is improved, but available space under the seat is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidcargo space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic systems are mounted on the bottom surface of the cushion pan, utilizing the vertical dimension and space that would otherwise be unused. By attaching electronics to the cushion pan's underside rather than occupying separate horizontal space, the design maintains cargo space while integrating electronic functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The electronic systems are nested within or attached to the existing cushion pan structure, utilizing the space already defined by the seating assembly. The mounting features are integrated into the cushion pan's existing geometry, allowing electronics to be housed within the overall footprint of the seat without encroaching on cargo space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of operation

If multiple separate components are used for mounting electronics, then installation flexibility is maintained, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation flexibilityVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple separate mounting components are merged into a single integrated cushion pan structure. The cushion pan includes built-in mounting surfaces, attachment features, and securing mechanisms all as part of its integrated design, reducing the total number of separate components while maintaining installation flexibility through the adjustable and reconfigurable nature of the integrated mounting system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10596939B2Polymeric seat cushion frame integrated module attachment system
Publication Date: 2020.03.24 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US10596939B2 patent drawing
  • US10596939B2 patent drawing
  • US10596939B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A seating assembly includes a seat frame and a seating support cushion. An adjustable cushion pan is rotatably coupled with the seat frame. A plurality of downwardly-extending connection members are integral with and extend from a bottom surface of the cushion pan. An electronic seating module is operably coupled directly to select ones of the plurality of downwardly-extending connection members.