Dynamic Vehicle Seat Actuator Control for Fatigue Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Long-distance vehicle travel leads to muscle fatigue, stiffness, and ischemia due to prolonged stationary positioning, causing discomfort and potential health issues like blood clot formation, for which existing vehicle seating systems are inadequate in providing effective solutions.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seating system with powered seat adjustment actuators that dynamically adjust seating positions automatically, altering speed and movement patterns based on vehicle events such as braking or changes in driving conditions to reduce fatigue and improve comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional fixed-position seat designs are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but driver fatigue increases during extended periods of use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a fixed seat design to a dynamic seat system that automatically adjusts its configuration. The seat backrest and cushion incorporate actuators that continuously modify their shape and position based on real-time detection of driver posture and movement patterns, enabling the seat to adapt to the driver's needs during extended periods of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat system implements self-service through integrated sensors and control algorithms that automatically detect driver fatigue, posture changes, and movement patterns. The system autonomously adjusts seat parameters without requiring manual input from the driver, making the seat responsive to driver needs while maintaining operational simplicity for the user.
2Ease of operation
If the seat is designed to automatically adjust to driver movements, then driver fatigue is reduced, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system achieves multi-functionality by using a single integrated controller that performs multiple tasks: detecting driver posture through sensors, analyzing movement patterns, determining fatigue levels, and coordinating adjustments of both the seat backrest and cushion actuators. This universal controller consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the detection system, analysis algorithms, and actuator control into a unified control architecture. The sensors, processing unit, and actuators are integrated into a cohesive system that operates as a single automated unit, reducing the complexity that would arise from having separate independent systems for each function.
3Ease of operation
If actuators are integrated within the seat cushion and backrest, then fatigue reduction through dynamic adjustment is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seat system is segmented into distinct functional modules: the seat backrest with its own actuator, the seat cushion with its integrated actuator, the sensor array, and the control unit. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and tested independently before final assembly, reducing the overall manufacturing complexity despite the advanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuators are nested within the seat structure, with motor assemblies positioned inside the seat backrest and cushion frameworks. This nesting approach allows the actuators to be integrated into the existing seat design without requiring completely new manufacturing processes, as the actuator housings can be incorporated into the seat's structural components.
Data Source
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AI summary
A vehicle seating system is disclosed having a seat and at least one powered seat adjustment actuator for altering the seating position formed by the seat. A controller dynamically adjusts the speed of movement of said seat back based on comparing at least one speed parameter from said first series of speed parameters with a first smooth movement speed projection and dynamically adjusting a first control signal to said first powered seat adjustment actuator to converge the speed of movement toward or equal to said first smooth movement speed projection.