Headrest Rod Locking Mechanism Prevents Connector Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing system for mounting and electrical connection of a headrest on a motor vehicle seat back faces difficulties in reconnecting connectors when the tubular rod is reinserted into the sleeve, leading to disconnection issues.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a locking device on the first electrical connector that extends radially to prevent upward withdrawal of the rod from the sleeve, ensuring the headrest is securely attached and eliminating the need for reconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the rod is made removable from the sleeve for height adjustment, then the headrest can be adjusted in height, but the connectors may disconnect when the rod is withdrawn and reinserted
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is divided into a locking element that engages with a corresponding feature on the rod, separating the locking function from the rod and sleeve components themselves. This allows the rod to remain removable for adjustment while preventing accidental disconnection during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device automatically engages when the rod is inserted into the sleeve, performing the locking action before any potential disconnection can occur. This preliminary locking prevents the connectors from disconnecting during subsequent rod withdrawal and reinsertion operations.
2Reliability
If a locking device is added to prevent rod withdrawal, then connector disconnection is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is designed to automatically engage and lock the rod in the sleeve without requiring separate manual locking operations. The system serves itself by incorporating the locking mechanism as an integral part of the insertion process, eliminating the need for additional complex locking procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is integrated with the existing rod and sleeve structure, combining the locking function with the height adjustment mechanism. This merging approach prevents connector disconnection while avoiding the need for entirely separate locking systems, thus limiting the increase in device complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a system (1) comprising: a tubular rod (2); a sleeve (3) for receiving said rod in sliding motion; a first electrical connector (4) fitted into the free end of said rod, said connector having a cross-section similar to that of said rod so as to form a downward extension of said rod, said first connector projecting downward from said sleeve; a first network of wires from said first connector and passing through said rod; a second electrical connector (6) fitted with said first connector; a second network (7) of wires from said second connector; said system further comprising a locking device (8), said device being fitted onto said first connector and extending radially beyond said first connector so as to prevent the removal of said rod from said sleeve by pulling said rod upwards.