Rack-Pinion Headrest Module for Slimmer Seat Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing headrest modules for vehicles have complex structures and require many parts, making them difficult to manufacture and limiting their slimness, which obstructs the maximization of interior space, especially in self-driving vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A headrest module with a simplified design that includes a mounting base, a rack bracket with a rack gear part, a moving gear with a pinion gear part, and a stopping unit, which allows for translational motion while reducing the number of parts and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a slide module with many parts is used to enable linear movement of the headrest, then the headrest can be adjusted in position, but the structure becomes complex and manufacturing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated module. The moving gear assembly integrates the rack gear, pinion gear, guide grooves, and stopping unit into one compact structure, eliminating the need for separate slide modules and reducing overall part count while maintaining headrest adjustment functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The moving gear assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it enables linear movement through rack-pinion engagement, provides guidance through guide grooves, implements stopping mechanisms through engaging parts, and allows rotational motion. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each function
2Ease of operation
If a slide module with many parts is used to enable linear movement of the headrest, then the headrest can be adjusted in position, but the manufacturing process becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating multiple components into the moving gear assembly, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. The consolidated structure simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining all necessary functions for headrest adjustment
3Ease of operation
If a slide module is used to enable headrest movement, then position adjustment is possible, but the headrest cannot be slimmed down
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the pinion gear rotates within the moving gear, and the rack gear is integrated into the same assembly. This nested configuration allows multiple moving components to occupy a compact space, enabling headrest adjustment functionality while maintaining a slim profile
4Ease of operation
If a slide module with many parts is used, then headrest movement is enabled, but the number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple separate components into integrated assemblies. The moving gear assembly combines the rack gear, pinion gear, guide grooves, and stopping unit into one unified structure, significantly reducing the total number of parts required for headrest adjustment
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
The solution reduces the number of parts and simplifies the manufacturing process, enabling the headrest module to be slimmer and more space-efficient while maintaining the functionality of adjusting the headrest position.
Implementation Method 1
a rack bracket (120) having a rack gear part (121)... a moving gear (130) having a pinion gear part (131) engaged with the rack gear part (121)
Implementation Method 2
The drive unit may include a checking spring configured to elastically bias the central shaft toward the stopping unit
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a headrest module including a mounting base; a rack bracket having a rack gear part and mounted on the mounting base to enable translational motion along an extended direction of the rack gear part; a moving gear having a pinion gear part engaged with the rack gear part and being installed to enable rotational motion and translational motion with respect to the mounting base; and a stopping unit formed to stop the rotational motion of the moving gear as the pinion gear part, which makes the rotational motion due to the translational motion of the rack gear part, makes the translational motion in one direction.