ISOFIX Connector Assembly With Fixed Spacing and Movable Base
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing child car seat attachment systems with Isofix-type connectors are not compliant with regulations in all countries due to fixed connector distances, lacking flexibility and stability standards.
Innovation Solution
A child car seat attachment system with ISOFIX connectors that can adjust to a fixed distance, utilizing tensioning cables, rigid rods, and a locking mechanism to ensure stability and compliance with varying regulatory standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If connectors are connected to the ends of the tensioning belt to allow flexibility, then the attachment system is adaptable to different configurations, but the distance between connectors becomes variable and does not meet rigid attachment standards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic system where the base can shift between retracted and extended positions along the seat, allowing the connectors to maintain a fixed distance from each other while adapting to different vehicle seat configurations. The tensioning belt dynamically adjusts its length to accommodate these position changes while keeping the connector spacing constant.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is divided into separable components: a base that can move independently along the seat, connectors that maintain fixed spacing, and a tensioning belt that adjusts its length. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its specific function - the base provides position adaptability, the connectors provide fixed spacing, and the belt provides tension adjustment.
2Ease of operation
If the attachment system uses a movable base with adjustable connector positions, then it provides flexibility for installation, but it lacks the rigid stability required by certain country regulations
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning belt acts as an intermediary element between the movable base and the connectors. It transmits force from the base to the connectors while maintaining a fixed geometric relationship between the connectors, thus mediating between the need for base movability and connector stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of base position along the seat while maintaining the parameter of connector distance constant. The tensioning belt allows the base to move (changing its position parameter) while keeping the connector spacing parameter fixed, thus satisfying both adaptability and stability requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tensioning belt is made stretchable to allow base movement, then the system gains flexibility, but it may compromise the strength and reliability of the attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning belt is implemented as a flexible element that can accommodate base movement while maintaining sufficient tensile strength. This flexible belt allows the base to move between retracted and extended positions while still providing reliable force transmission to keep the connectors securely attached to the vehicle seat anchors.
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 system provides a stable and adjustable attachment that meets safety and reliability standards, allowing for easy detachment and reattachment while maintaining compliance with international regulations.
Implementation Method 1
The pair of tensioning cables (8, 9) reversibly switches from a loose configuration to a stretched configuration
Implementation Method 2
a locking mechanism that prevents the movement thereof towards the seat
Data Source
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AI summary
A child car seat attachment system (1) comprising a base (2), a pair of connectors (6, 7) movable along a direction of translation (X-X), a pair of tensioning cables (8, 9) active on the pair of connectors, a belt (10) passing through the front wall (4) and sliding along the direction of translation to allow the movement of the pair of connectors, a locking mechanism (12) mounted on the base, configured to stop the sliding of the belt in the direction that brings the free end (11) toward the base. The attachment system comprises a pair of rigid rods (14, 15) connected to a respective connector, a connecting bar (22) of the two rigid rods movable along the direction of translation and connected to the second end (23) of the belt, a pair of pull-out springs (24, 25) connected to the base and to the connecting bar, and configured to reversibly switch from an extended configuration to a retracted configuration.