Lever-Operated Folding Seat Latch for Flexible Space Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding seats in vehicles have complex and diverse parts that increase weight and maintenance costs, and are limited in folding direction, restricting space utilization.
Innovation Solution
A folding seat design featuring a lever-operated mechanism with a first latch part that includes a hook, strap, and spring, allowing the seat frame to be folded towards the seat back frame, improving space utilization by enabling rotation and stable coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex and diverse parts are used to fold the seat frame, then the folding function is achieved, but the weight of the seat increases and maintenance cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple latch parts (first latch part and second latch part) into a unified folding mechanism system that works together to achieve the folding function. The first latch part couples the seat frame to the seat back frame, while the second latch part couples the seat back frame to the vehicle, creating an integrated solution that reduces overall complexity and weight compared to separate independent mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch parts are designed to perform multiple functions: the first latch part enables both folding and fixing of the seat frame, while the second latch part enables folding of the seat back frame and fixing to the vehicle. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms, thereby reducing weight and maintenance requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex and diverse parts are used to fold the seat frame, then the folding function is achieved, but maintenance cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The folding mechanism is segmented into distinct modular components: the first latch part for seat frame folding, the second latch part for seat back frame folding, and the rotation shaft mechanism. This segmentation allows individual parts to be inspected, maintained, or replaced independently, reducing overall maintenance costs and improving ease of repair.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch parts are designed as replaceable components that can be easily discarded when worn or damaged and recovered/reinstalled when new. The simple structure of the latch parts with holding jaws and engagement features allows for cost-effective replacement without requiring complex tools or procedures.
3Device complexity
If the folding direction is limited, then the structure is simple, but the utilization of space around the folding seat is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic folding capabilities through the latch mechanism that allows the seat frame to be folded in multiple directions (toward the seat back frame or toward the vehicle). The rotation shaft and latch part combination enables adaptive positioning, transforming the rigid single-direction structure into a dynamic multi-directional system that maximizes space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds dimensional flexibility by enabling folding not only toward the seat back frame (one dimension) but also toward the vehicle (another dimension). This multi-dimensional folding capability is achieved through the coordinated action of the first and second latch parts, allowing the seat to adapt to various spatial configurations and improve overall space utilization.
4Volume of moving object
If the seat frame is folded toward the seat back frame, then space utilization is improved, but stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism provides beforehand cushioning by pre-establishing stable engagement positions during the folding process. The holding jaw and engagement features are designed to capture the seat frame at predetermined positions, preventing unintended movement and maintaining stability once folded. This pre-planned engagement system ensures stability is maintained throughout the folding operation and in the final folded state.
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 design allows for convenient folding of the seat frame towards the seat back frame, enhancing space utilization and maintaining stability, thereby reducing weight and maintenance costs while providing flexibility in folding positions.
Implementation Method 1
a spring having a first end coupled to the center part of the hook, and a second end extending rearward and coupled to the seat frame, the spring being configured to supply an elastic force to the hook such that a second end of the hook moves forward
Implementation Method 2
a first end of the side support being coupled to the vehicle and a second end of the side support being coupled to the rear of the seat frame through a rotation shaft such that the seat frame is rotatable
Implementation Method 3
a hook having a lower part located behind the rotation shaft and coupled elastically rotatably to the seat frame
Data Source
AI summary
Proposed is a folding seat which can be folded by manipulating a lever at various positions so as to improve the utilization of space around the folding seat. The folding seat includes: a seat frame; a seat back frame located at a rear of the seat frame and coupled rotatably to the seat frame or a vehicle; and a first latch part provided with a side support, a first end of the side support being coupled to the vehicle and a second end of the side support being coupled to the rear of the seat frame through a rotation shaft such that the seat frame is rotatable.