Auto-Folding Vehicle Headrest Locking With Integrated Sliding Bar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle headrest folding structures require multiple parts and precise assembly, leading to increased production costs and structural operation errors.
Innovation Solution
An auto-folding headrest structure utilizing a sliding bar and a return spring for simplified locking and unlocking, reducing parts and assembly complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a headrest folding structure uses multiple parts (release lever, ratchet, lock link, return springs) to achieve folding and locking functions, then the folding operation can be completed, but the number of parts increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the release lever, ratchet, and lock link into a single integrated sliding bar component. This sliding bar directly engages with the stay assembly to achieve both folding and locking functions, eliminating the need for separate return springs and reducing the total number of parts while maintaining operational effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding bar is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the release mechanism, the locking mechanism, and the folding actuator. By making the sliding bar universal, the patent eliminates the need for dedicated separate components for each function, thereby reducing part count and assembly complexity
2Ease of operation
If a headrest folding structure uses multiple parts with precise rotation mechanisms, then the folding function can be achieved, but production costs increase due to precise processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple rotation-based components into a single sliding bar that moves linearly, the patent eliminates the need for multiple precise rotation joints and return springs. This simplification reduces manufacturing complexity and processing requirements, thereby lowering production costs while maintaining the folding function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical rotation system (release lever rotating ratchet, which rotates lock link) with a simpler linear sliding mechanism. The sliding bar directly engages and disengages from the stay assembly through linear motion, eliminating the need for multiple rotating components and reducing manufacturing precision requirements
3Ease of operation
If a headrest folding structure uses three return springs for rotation of three configurations, then the folding operation can be completed, but product defects and structural operation errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for three separate return springs by using a single sliding bar mechanism that provides both the folding action and the locking function. This reduction in the number of elastic components from three to zero (the sliding bar is typically a rigid component) significantly reduces the potential for product defects and structural operation errors
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding bar mechanism is designed to be self-locking through its geometric engagement with the stay assembly. When the sliding bar is moved to the folded position, its shape and the engagement features automatically provide the locking action without requiring separate return springs or additional locking components, thereby improving reliability
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
Simplifies production processes, reduces costs, and minimizes product defects and operation errors by using a single return spring for folding operations.
Implementation Method 1
The return spring may operate to rotate the stay rod by rotating the auxiliary bracket by an elastic force of the return spring when the locking member is released from gear coupling to the support bracket.
Data Source
AI summary
An auto-folding headrest for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a base bracket assembly configured to be fixedly installed on a seat frame constituting a seat of the vehicle; a stay assembly rotatably connected to the base bracket assembly and configured to support the headrest of the vehicle; a locking assembly provided on the base bracket assembly and configured to be changed into a locked state or an unlocked state to fix or release a rotation of the stay assembly; and a sliding bar coupled to the locking assembly and configured to change the locking assembly into the locked state or the unlocked state by a sliding operation.