Electric Backrest Adjuster with External Drive Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backrest adjusters for vehicle seats, both manual and electrically operated, lack efficiency and versatility in adjusting the backrest for comfort and easy entry, particularly in vehicles with multiple seating rows, and often require complex installations.
Innovation Solution
An electrically operated backrest adjuster with a simplified design featuring two fitting sides, a transmission rod, and an external electric drive unit, allowing for adjustable inclination and pivoting of the backrest, which can be retrofitted into existing vehicle seats, utilizing identical parts for cost-effectiveness and ease of installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manual backrest adjuster with unlocking lever is used, then the structure is simple, but the operation efficiency and comfort are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment system with an electrically operated system. The electric drive unit (20) automatically adjusts the backrest inclination and positioning, eliminating the need for manual operation of unlocking levers and fittings, thereby significantly improving ease of operation while accepting increased device complexity through the addition of electric components.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrically operated backrest adjuster enables the system to adjust itself automatically without requiring user intervention. The drive unit self-regulates the backrest position based on control signals, making the system self-serving and improving operational convenience despite the added complexity of the electric actuation mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing backrest adjusters are used, then basic adjustment is possible, but versatility for different vehicle seat types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the backrest adjuster with universal fittings (fitting upper part 10, fitting lower part 20) that can be adapted to different vehicle seat types including front seats, rear seats, and captain's chairs. The standardized interface and mounting mechanism allow the same device to serve multiple functions across different seat configurations, enhancing versatility while managing installation complexity through design standardization.
3Ease of manufacture
If custom installation is performed for each vehicle seat, then precision is high, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest adjuster is designed as a pre-assembled unit with pre-configured fittings, electric drive mechanisms, and mounting components. This preliminary preparation allows the entire adjuster assembly to be installed as a single module onto the vehicle seat, significantly reducing installation time and complexity while maintaining precise positioning through the pre-engineered fitting interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the backrest adjuster into distinct modular components: fitting upper part (10), fitting lower part (20), transmission rod (5), and electric drive unit (20). This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured and tested, then easily assembled during installation, improving ease of manufacture and reducing installation time through modular assembly rather than custom fabrication.
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 cost-effective, easily installable, and versatile electrically operated backrest adjuster that can be designed as a premanufactured unit, enabling various comfort positions and easy entry into vehicles, enhancing user experience and operational simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
an electric drive unit (20) is provided on one of the fitting sides, said electric drive unit being arranged on the outside of the associated fitting lower part (20) and being coupled to the transmission rod (5) for driving same
Data Source
AI summary
An electrically operated backrest adjuster (1, 1″) for a vehicle seat (3) includes a seat part (3.1) and a backrest (3.2) which is adjustable relative to the seat part (3.1). At least one of two fitting sides—of which each includes a fitting upper part (B1) mounted on the backrest and a fitting lower part (B2) mounted on the seat part—includes a fitting (2, 2′) for adjusting the inclination of the backrest (3.2). The fitting (2, 2′) is arranged between the fitting upper part (B1) and the fitting lower part (B2). The fitting sides are coupled to each other by a transmission rod (5). An electric drive unit (6, 6′) is provided on one of the fitting sides. The drive unit is arranged on the outside of the associated fitting lower part (B2) is being coupled to the transmission rod (5) for driving same.