Folding Backrest Seat Structure for Trunk Volume and Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing motor vehicle seat designs with fixed partitions and non-folding backrests restrict trunk loading volume, compromising passenger comfort and cargo space.

Innovation Solution

A seat with a rear cover mounted for translation on the backrest, allowing it to tilt forward and fold, increasing trunk loading capacity by using inclined sliding axes and pivot mechanisms, and motorization for autonomous movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a fixed partition is installed between the rear row of seats and the trunk, then passenger protection from objects in the trunk is improved, but the trunk loading volume is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepassenger protectionVSAvoidtrunk loading volume

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The partition is designed as a dynamic structure that can change its state between upright (providing protection) and folded (maximizing cargo space). The backrest with integrated partition can be tilted forward around a pivot axis, transforming from a static protective barrier into a space-saving configuration that increases trunk volume.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If the backrest is made rigid and fixed, then structural strength is improved, but the ability to increase loading volume is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebackrest structural strengthVSAvoidtrunk loading volume

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The backrest is designed with rigid structural components for strength but incorporates a pivot mechanism that allows it to dynamically change its position. The rigid partition structure can be tilted forward around a pivot axis, maintaining structural integrity while transforming from an upright protective position to a folded position that maximizes cargo space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The backrest is divided into functional segments - a rigid partition portion for protection and a hinged connection portion that allows movement. This segmentation enables the protective structure to be decoupled from the fixed chassis, allowing it to tilt independently while maintaining its protective function when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of manufacture

If the seat is mounted on a fixed partition, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability for different positions is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseat mounting simplicityVSAvoidseat position adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The seat mounting system incorporates a pivot axis that allows the backrest with partition to rotate between upright and folded positions. This dynamic mounting replaces fixed attachment with a hinged connection, enabling the seat to adapt between providing maximum protection and maximizing cargo space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3722148B1Seat with reclining and folding back

Publication Date: 2023.12.13 RENAULT SA

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Figure 4~5

AI summary

The invention relates to a seat (10) for attachment to a motor vehicle chassis (101), comprising: - a seat (20) equipped with means for movable translation on the chassis, and - a backrest (30) having an upper and a lower portion articulated, on the one hand, to the upper portion, and, on the other hand, to the seat. According to the invention, the seat includes a rear cover (40) which is movable in translation on the upper portion of the backrest and which is equipped with means for movable pivoting on the chassis.