Linear Actuator Clip Connection for Seat Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear actuators for motor vehicle seats are complex, costly, and difficult to assemble and install, lacking simplicity and reliability in operation.
Innovation Solution
A linear actuator design featuring a lead screw with a rod head and a fastening means that can be easily connected and locked to a seat component using a clip connection and vibration-damping material, allowing tool-free installation and rotationally symmetrical design for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If existing linear actuators are used for motor vehicle seats, then the seat adjustment function is achieved, but the structure becomes complex and costly with difficult assembly and installation
Solution Approach 1:
The linear actuator is divided into separate modular components: a lead screw assembly, a fastening means with clip connection, and a bearing. These segmented parts can be independently manufactured and assembled, simplifying the overall structure and facilitating easier assembly and installation while reducing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex threaded fasteners or welded connections, the invention inverts the approach by using a clip connection system where the fastening means clips onto the lead screw and rotates into the bearing. This reversed connection methodology simplifies assembly and reduces structural complexity
2Productivity
If existing linear actuators are used for motor vehicle seats, then the seat adjustment function is achieved, but assembly time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening means is pre-designed with integrated clip connections and vibration-damping material attached beforehand. The lead screw is pre-assembled with the rod head. These preliminary preparations enable rapid assembly during installation without requiring complex on-site assembly procedures, thereby increasing productivity and reducing assembly time
Solution Approach 2:
The clip connection system is designed to be self-assembling, where the fastening means automatically clips onto the lead screw and the rotation mechanism self-locks into the bearing without requiring external tools or complex alignment procedures. This self-service assembly approach significantly reduces assembly time and costs
3Ease of operation
If simple fastening methods are used for the linear actuator, then assembly becomes easier and faster, but vibration damping during operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening means employs a composite construction combining a rigid structural component (for mechanical connection and rotation) with integrated vibration-damping material (such as polymeric or elastomeric elements). This composite design maintains installation simplicity while effectively damping vibrations during linear actuator operation
Solution Approach 2:
The vibration-damping material acts as an intermediary element between the fastening means and the bearing/seat component. This intermediary layer absorbs and dissipates vibrations while still allowing the simple clip connection and rotation mechanism to function, thus maintaining ease of installation while reducing harmful vibrations
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 quick, tool-free installation and reliable operation of the linear actuator, reducing assembly time and costs while effectively damping vibrations during adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
The fastening means ideally includes a vibration-damping material—for example, a thermoplastic. Vibrations which occur during the adjustment of the linear actuator are damped by the vibration-damping material of the fastening means.
Data Source
AI summary
A linear actuator for adjusting a seat component of a motor vehicle seat includes a lead screw having a rod head. A fastening means is connected to the rod head and connectable to a first seat component of the motor vehicle seat. The first seat component has a bearing, with the fastening means being insertable into the bearing in a first orientation and lockable in the bearing in a second orientation.