Headrest Speaker Connector Spring Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing headrest systems with integrated speakers face challenges in maintaining electrical connections over adjustable ranges due to fixed point connection mechanisms, which can hinder headrest movement and lead to wire insulation wear or connection severance, especially in support rods with small cross-sectional areas.
Innovation Solution
A mechanically biased electrical connection system where a spring-loaded structure maintains contact between an electrical connector and contact point, allowing for adjustable headrest movement without the need for extendible wires, and includes a non-conducting barrier to reduce corrosion and ensure continuous electrical connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed point connections are used for electrical wiring in headrest bars, then electrical connection is maintained, but the headrest movement is hindered and wiring wear or severance occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing fixed electrical connections with a dynamic spring-loaded connector that moves with the headrest. The spring mechanism allows the electrical connection to maintain contact while accommodating the full range of headrest motion, eliminating wear and severance issues associated with fixed connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded connector acts as an intermediary between the fixed electrical contact point and the moving headrest components. This intermediary element absorbs the mechanical stress of movement while maintaining continuous electrical contact, preventing direct wear on the wiring itself.
2Ease of operation
If extended wiring is used to accommodate adjustable range movement, then headrest mobility is improved, but the wiring requires more space in small cross-sectional support rods
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded connector eliminates the need for extended wiring by dynamically maintaining electrical contact through mechanical bias. The connector moves with the headrest, allowing full adjustability range without requiring additional wire length or larger conduit space.
3Reliability
If fixed point connections are used, then electrical connection is established, but surface corrosion occurs between conductors
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic spring-loaded connector creates continuous relative motion between contact surfaces during headrest adjustment. This self-wiping action prevents corrosion buildup by constantly refreshing the contact surfaces, while the spring pressure maintains reliable electrical connection.
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
This solution ensures reliable electrical connections over the adjustable range of the headrest, reducing the risk of connection failure and increasing the effective life of the contact points, while allowing for more flexible wire management and reduced stress on the harness.
Implementation Method 1
The connection is maintained over the adjustable range of the headrest by a mechanical bias on either the electrical connector or the electrical contact
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C~1D
AI summary
The technology can be embodied in a headrest that includes an enclosure that includes one or more acoustic transducers. The headrest includes a bar for mounting on a backrest of a seat such that the mounted headrest is movable with respect to the backrest to different positions over an adjustable range. The bar includes one or more wires each of which is coupled to an electrical contact at one end, and an acoustic transducer at an opposite end, the one or more wires disposed within a hollow interior portion of the bar. The bar also includes an opening for permitting an electrical connection to be established between an electrical connector coupled to an external source, and the electrical contact coupled to the one or more wires. The connection is maintained over the adjustable range of the headrest by a mechanical bias on either the electrical connector or the electrical contact.