Motor-Driven Lumbar Support Mechanism for Quiet Seat Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lumbar support systems in vehicle seats using Bowden cables are inefficient, noisy, and require numerous heavy components, leading to suboptimal performance.
Innovation Solution
A lumbar support system with a motor-driven threaded member and flexible cables, where the motor rotates a threaded spindle, translating traveling members along its axis, and flexible cables move the lumbar support between positions, reducing the need for heavy components and noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a Bowden cable and electromechanical actuator are used to move the lumbar support, then the lumbar support can be adjusted between positions, but the system becomes noisy and requires numerous heavy components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the Bowden cable and electromechanical actuator into a single integrated unit where the motor housing serves as part of the cable assembly. This merging eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets and reduces the number of discrete components while maintaining the adjustability function.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor housing is designed to serve multiple functions: it houses the motor, provides structural support for the cable assembly, and acts as a mounting point for the lumbar support mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the overall component count and simplifies the system architecture.
2Ease of operation
If a Bowden cable and electromechanical actuator are used to move the lumbar support, then the lumbar support can be adjusted between positions, but the system becomes noisy during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical Bowden cable actuation system with an electromechanical motor-driven system. This substitution eliminates the noisy mechanical cable tensioning and pulley systems, using instead a controlled motor that operates more quietly while providing the same position adjustment capability.
3Ease of operation
If a Bowden cable and electromechanical actuator are used to move the lumbar support, then the lumbar support can be adjusted between positions, but the system has poor total system efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of the motor housing with the cable assembly reduces energy losses associated with multiple mechanical interfaces and connection points. By combining components, the patent minimizes friction points and energy dissipation, improving overall system efficiency while maintaining adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
Replacing the inefficient mechanical cable system with a direct motor-driven mechanism reduces energy transmission losses. The electromechanical system provides more direct force application to the lumbar support, eliminating energy losses in cable tensioning and mechanical advantage calculations.
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 efficient, quiet, and adjustable lumbar support with reduced component weight and complexity, enhancing user comfort and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A threaded member is operatively engaged with the motor such that the motor rotates the threaded member about an axis. A traveling member is operatively associated with the threaded member such that rotation of the threaded member translates the traveling member along the threaded member.
Implementation Method 2
A flexible cable has a first end and a second end. The first end is coupled to the traveling member for movement therewith and the second end is coupled to the fixed frame such that translation of the traveling member in response to rotation of the threaded member moves the lumbar support element from the first position to the second position.
Data Source
AI summary
A lumbar support system for a seat backrest having a fixed frame includes a lumbar support coupled to the fixed frame that is movable from a first position to a second position and a motor for moving the lumbar support. A threaded member is operatively associated with the motor such that the motor rotates the threaded member about an axis. A traveling member is operatively associated with the threaded member such that rotation of the threaded member translates the traveling member along the threaded member. The system further includes a flexible cable having a first end and a second end. The first end is coupled to the traveling member for movement therewith and the second end is coupled to the fixed frame such that translation of the traveling member in response to rotation of the threaded member moves the lumbar support element from the first position to the second position.