Single-Button Headrest Assembly with Integrated Pushing Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing headrest assemblies require the use of both hands to adjust the vertical position, which can be inconvenient for occupants, especially when reaching over their shoulders to make adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A headrest assembly with a rod featuring recesses and a pushing plate with locking portions that can be adjusted using a single button, allowing vertical adjustment with one hand, and is biased to an engaged position for easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated locks are provided for each vertical portion of the rod, then the locking reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because both hands are required to adjust the headrest position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate locking mechanisms into a single integrated locking plate that simultaneously engages both vertical portions of the rod. The locking plate includes first and second locking portions that can engage with the first and second vertical portions respectively, allowing both locks to be operated by a single push button rather than requiring two separate hand operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking plate serves multiple functions: it simultaneously locks both vertical portions of the rod, provides a single operation interface for the user, and maintains reliable engagement through its multi-portion design. This universal component replaces the need for separate dedicated locks while preserving the security of the locking mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If a push button mechanism is added to move the pushing plate, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The push button mechanism is designed to be self-contained within the head restraint assembly, with the button directly connected to the pushing plate through a simple mechanical linkage. The springs provide automatic resetting functionality, and the entire mechanism is integrated into the existing structure without requiring external actuators or complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex multi-lock mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simpler single pushing plate design that is actuated by a straightforward push button. The unnecessary complexity of coordinated multi-lock actuation is removed, leaving only the essential function of simultaneous engagement of both vertical portions through a single operational interface.
3Ease of operation
If the pushing plate is made moveable in a direction perpendicular to the vertical portions, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The perpendicular movability of the pushing plate is implemented only in the specific region where the locking portions engage with the vertical portions. This localized movement capability allows the locking portions to align with and engage the vertical portions without requiring the entire plate to be precisely positioned, reducing overall manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining functional performance.
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 easy, single-handed adjustment of the headrest's vertical position without needing to face the assembly, reducing complexity and manufacturing costs while improving user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
the head restraint includes a plurality of springs configured to urge the pushing plate to the engaged position
Data Source
AI summary
A headrest assembly according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a rod configured to connect the headrest assembly to a seat back. The rod includes a first vertical portion and a second vertical portion, which each have a plurality of recesses. The headrest assembly further includes a head restraint including a pushing plate having a first locking portion and a second locking portion. The first and second locking portions selectively engage the recesses of the first and second vertical portions, respectively, to adjust a vertical position of the head restraint.