Vehicle Head Restraint With Self-Adjusting Thickness
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle seat head restraints do not efficiently adjust thickness to accommodate different positions and storage needs, limiting cargo space and usability.
Innovation Solution
A self-adjusting head restraint system that includes a support member with front and rear portions, where the rear portion is movable relative to the front portion and the support member, allowing the head restraint to change thickness based on the seatback's position, utilizing a spring member and attachment mechanisms to facilitate compact storage and upright use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the head restraint is designed with fixed thickness, then it provides consistent support, but it occupies excessive space when stowed
Solution Approach 1:
The head restraint transitions from a static fixed-thickness design to a dynamic variable-thickness design. The rear portion is made movable relative to the front portion, allowing the head restraint to automatically adjust its thickness between a first position (thicker for support) and a second position (thinner for storage). This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by providing consistent support when needed while minimizing occupied space during storage.
2Area of stationary object
If the head restraint thickness is reduced for storage, then cargo space increases, but support capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The head restraint employs a dynamic thickness adjustment mechanism where the rear portion can move relative to the front portion. When the seatback is in the upright position, the head restraint maintains a larger thickness for adequate support. When the seatback is folded down for cargo storage, the head restraint automatically transitions to a thinner configuration, maximizing cargo space while maintaining support capability when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the head restraint is made adjustable, then it adapts to different positions, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The head restraint adjustment mechanism operates automatically without requiring manual intervention. The rear portion is connected to the front portion through a mechanism that responds to seatback position changes, allowing the head restraint to self-adjust its thickness based on whether the seatback is in the upright or folded position. This self-service approach provides position adaptability while minimizing the complexity of control systems.
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
Enables the head restraint to adjust thickness between two positions, optimizing space when stowed and providing adequate support when upright, thus enhancing cargo capacity and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a spring member and attachment mechanisms to facilitate compact storage and upright use
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seat may include a seat bottom, a seatback and a head restraint. The seatback may engage the seat bottom and may be movable relative thereto between a normal use position and a second position. The head restraint may be coupled to the seatback and may include front and rear portions attached to each other for relative movement therebetween. The front and rear portions may define a first thickness when the seatback is in the normal use position and a second thickness when the seatback is in the second position.