Vehicle Seat Headrest Locking Structure for Flexible Height Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing height-adjustable headrests for vehicle seats require complex adaptations to position the activation element, limiting their modularity and ease of assembly, and do not allow for flexible placement of the activation element at different vertical positions without altering the locking element.
Innovation Solution
A headrest design featuring a locking element with a locking region perpendicular to the main support element's transverse direction and an activation region extending vertically, allowing the activation element to be positioned at various vertical locations without adapting the locking element, enabling a modular construction kit and easy adjustment of the headrest's height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the activation element is positioned at different vertical locations, then the flexibility and modularity of the headrest are improved, but the complexity of adapting the locking element increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate activation elements at different vertical positions without requiring adaptation. The L-shaped configuration with a locking region and an activation region extending vertically allows the same locking element to function with activation elements positioned at various heights, making the system multi-functional and adaptable.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is segmented into distinct functional regions: a locking region for securing the headrest and an activation region that extends vertically. This segmentation allows the activation element to be positioned at different vertical locations within the activation region while the locking region remains fixed, enabling flexibility without compromising the locking function.
2Reliability
If the locking region is secured on the bearing opening, then the reliability of the locking mechanism is improved, but the ease of operation for height adjustment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The activation region serves as an intermediary between the user's manual operation and the locking mechanism. By extending vertically, it provides a convenient interface for users to activate height adjustment at different positions, while the locking region remains securely engaged with the bearing opening to maintain reliability during adjustment operations.
3Ease of manufacture
If the headrest design allows modular construction with interchangeable headrest bodies, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the precision of maintaining locking alignment is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element's vertical activation region creates a universal interface that accommodates different headrest bodies with activation elements at various positions. This universal design allows modular construction with interchangeable headrest bodies while maintaining consistent locking alignment through the standardized L-shaped locking element structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A headrest for a seat may have a headrest body, a support element having a rod end, and a base support element. The base support element is connected to the headrest body and the height can be adjusted relative to the support element using same. The headrest may also have a locking element for locking the base support element in an adjusted height position on the support element. The locking element may have a locking region and an actuation region. The locking region extends perpendicular to a transverse extension direction of the base support element and may be detachably blocked in a locked position. The actuation region extends from the base support element in a vertical direction. By actuating the actuation region, the locking region can be moved away from the bearing opening. A seat having a headrest of this type is also provided.