Vehicle Headrest Linkage Assembly for Forward Dump Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable headrest mechanisms do not effectively reduce the overall height profile of a rear seat to prevent interference with forward seats while maintaining ease of operation and stability.
Innovation Solution
A pivoting headrest assembly with a pivotally supported and cable-actuated hook that engages a widthwise extending support within side channels, converting upward displacement into a forward dump rotation of the headrest frame, utilizing a pair of pivotal linkages to pivotally engage a base plate offset from the headrest bracket.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a traditional foldable headrest mechanism is used, then the headrest can be folded forward, but the overall height profile reduction is insufficient and interference with forward seats occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest assembly employs a dynamic folding mechanism that transitions from a static upright position to a dynamic forward-dumped position. The pivotal linkages and cable-actuated hook enable the headrest to rotate forward about a pivot point, dynamically reducing its height profile to clear forward seats while maintaining structural integrity during the transition.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a rotational dimension to the headrest movement. Instead of simple linear folding, the headrest performs a forward dump rotation about a pivot point, utilizing angular displacement in addition to linear compression. This dimensional change allows the headrest to clear forward seats more effectively while maintaining a compact folded profile.
2Reliability
If a complex latch mechanism is used to control headrest folding, then the headrest can be securely latched, but the operation becomes difficult and requires multiple separate mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the latch release function with the seatback latch mechanism through a latch release mechanism that interconnects both systems. A single actuation of the seatback latch simultaneously releases both the seatback and the headrest, merging two separate latching operations into one unified action, thereby simplifying user interaction while maintaining secure latching.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable-actuated hook mechanism provides automatic engagement and disengagement of the headrest latch. When the seatback latch is actuated, the cable automatically triggers the hook release, eliminating the need for separate manual intervention. The system serves itself by using the seatback latching action to automatically control the headrest latching state.
3Ease of operation
If the headrest is designed for easy forward dumping, then the height profile can be reduced, but the stability and control during rotation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotal linkages serve as intermediary elements between the cable-actuated hook and the headrest bun support frame. These linkages translate the linear upward displacement of the hook into a controlled rotational motion of the headrest. The offset pivotal engagement points create a mechanical advantage that ensures smooth, controlled rotation while maintaining stability throughout the forward dump operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces a direct mechanical connection with a cable-actuated system. Instead of using a rigid mechanical linkage that would require complex actuators, the patent uses a flexible cable to transmit force to the pivotal hook. This substitution allows for easier operation while maintaining precise control through the cable's tension and the pivotal hook's geometric constraints.
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 headrest to be efficiently forward-dumped, reducing the seat's height profile without interfering with forward seats, while maintaining ease of operation and stability, as illustrated by the conversion of upward displacement into a controlled forward rotation.
Implementation Method 1
The side positioned and upwardly displaceable linkages are configured so that upward displacement of the support and pivotally affixed linkages is converted to a forward dump rotation of the headrest frame about its pivot with the bracket
Data Source
AI summary
A pivoting headrest assembly having a pivotally supported and cable actuated hook secured to fixed bracket. The hook engages a pin associated with a widthwise extending and upwardly biased support secured within a pair of side channels associated with the fixed bracket. Upon triggering the release of the hook, the support is upwardly displaced within the side channels. A pair of end supported pivotal linkages are secured in coaxial fashion with the ends of the displaceable support. Upper ends of the linkages pivotally engage a base plate of an upper pivotally driven headrest bun support offset from a pivotal engagement established between the base plate and upper end of the headrest bracket. The linkages are configured so that upward displacement exerted by the support is converted to the forward dump rotation of the headrest bun support.