Headrest Support Rod Locking With Band-Actuated Release

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage devices for headrest holding rods lack efficient mechanisms for handling and assembly, particularly in transitioning between locking and unlocking positions, which complicates the process of securing and removing the rods.

Innovation Solution

A storage device with a guide part attached to a vehicle seat backrest, featuring a locking device with a latch and actuating mechanism, including a band or pulley system, that allows the holding rod to be securely locked and easily released, facilitating manual or motorized operation for efficient assembly and disassembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a locking device with latch and spring is used to secure the support rod, then the support rod is reliably locked in position, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device is divided into separate functional components: a guide part with bearing surfaces for positioning, a latch for locking, and a spring for automatic return. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall assembly process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The guide part includes bearing surfaces that automatically guide and position the support rod in the correct locking position during assembly. This preliminary positioning action eliminates the need for complex alignment procedures and ensures reliable locking without additional adjustment steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If the latch is spring-biased into engagement with the recess, then the support rod remains securely locked, but manual intervention is required to release the lock

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking securityVSAvoidrelease operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking system transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic release state through the movement of the latch. The spring provides continuous biasing force that can be overcome by applying force to the actuating device, enabling easy transition between locked and released states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The actuating device serves as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the latch. By actuating this device, the latch is moved from the locked position to a release position, providing a convenient interface for releasing the lock without directly manipulating the spring or latch.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the support rod is freely movable in release position, then the headrest can be adjusted, but the rod may move unintentionally during handling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment capabilityVSAvoidhandling stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The guide part with bearing surfaces automatically guides and stabilizes the support rod during assembly and disassembly operations. This self-guiding mechanism ensures the rod moves only in the intended direction and prevents unintentional movement or misalignment during handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 enables secure locking and effortless release of the holding rod, enhancing handling and reducing the complexity of assembly and disassembly processes by providing a reliable and efficient mechanism for transitioning between locking and unlocking positions.

Implementation Method 1

The latch is biased by a spring into engagement with the recess

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Implementation Method 2

The actuating device comprises a force-transmitting connection in the form of a band

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce transmission through band: Tension

Data Source

PatentEP3967549B1Bearing device for a headrest
Publication Date: 2024.07.24 GRAMMER AG
  • EP3967549B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3967549B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3967549B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a bearing device for a headrest comprising a guide element with which the headrest support rod can be mounted on a vehicle seat and can be releasably fixed in a locking position relative to the guide element by means of a locking device, wherein the locking device comprises a bolt movable between a locking position and a release position, which is associated with the guide element and includes at least one recess associated with the support rod. The special feature is that an actuating device of the locking device comprises a force transmission connection in the form of a band between an actuating device, the bolt, and an ejector, such that when the actuating device is moved into the release position, the bolt is movable into the release position by a resulting actuating force.