Headrest Locking Mechanism with Bumper for Stable Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing headrests face challenges in achieving stable engagement of the engaged member with the locking member, leading to instability in the operation and potential abnormal sounds during movement.
Innovation Solution
The headrest design incorporates a movable frame with a front cover and rear cover forming a case, a locking member made of metal, and a bumper that contacts the fixed frame, along with a pivoting operating member and urging members to enhance the stability and efficiency of the front-back locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the engaged member is engaged with the locking member using conventional structures, then the headrest can be adjusted, but the engagement is unstable and may produce abnormal sounds
Solution Approach 1:
A bumper is introduced as an intermediary component between the locking member and the fixed frame. This bumper absorbs impact forces and prevents direct contact that would cause abnormal sounds, while still allowing the locking mechanism to function properly.
Solution Approach 2:
The bumper is positioned in advance between the locking member and fixed frame to cushion any potential impacts before they occur. This preventive cushioning ensures stable engagement without abnormal sounds during the locking operation.
2Reliability
If the locking member is made of metal for strength, then the engagement is more reliable, but the contact area with the pivoting operating member is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bumper extends in the front-back direction, adding a dimensional element that increases the contact area between the locking member and the pivoting operating member. This extended surface allows for better force distribution and easier operation while maintaining the metal locking member's reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A headrest (1) is provided with: left and right, mutually spaced headrest pillars (2, 2); a fixed-side member (4) disposed on the headrest pillars (2, 2) ; a movable-side member (5) linked to the fixed-side member (4) via a movable mechanism and enabled to be movable in a front-rear direction with respect to the fixed-side member (4); and a front-rear lock mechanism that locks or unlocks the movement of the movable-side member (5) in the front-rear direction with respect to the fixed-side member (4). The front-rear lock mechanism is provided with a plurality of engaged portions (10, 10) disposed on the outer side than the left and right headrest pillars (2, 2) in a width direction, and a lock member (11) including a plurality of engaging portions (71, 71) that lock the movement of the movable-side member (5) by respectively engaging the plurality of engaged portions (10, 10).