Lumbar Support System Using Threaded Member and Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lumbar support systems in vehicle seats using electromechanical actuators with Bowden cables suffer from poor efficiency, require numerous heavy components, and are often noisy during operation.
Innovation Solution
A lumbar support system that employs a motor coupled with a threaded member, traveling members, and flexible cables to move the lumbar support between positions, utilizing a spacer and actuator to translate the cables and provide adjustable lumbar support with reduced noise and component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an electromechanical actuator with Bowden cable is used to move the lumbar support, then the lumbar support can be adjusted between positions, but the system becomes heavy and complex with numerous components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components. The actuator assembly integrates the motor, threaded member, and traveling members into a single unit. The first and second flexible cables work together as a coordinated pair to move the lumbar support, eliminating the need for separate Bowden cables and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded member serves multiple functions: it converts rotational motion from the motor into linear motion, simultaneously drives both the first and second traveling members, and enables bidirectional movement of the lumbar support. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed compared to traditional Bowden cable systems.
2Ease of operation
If an electromechanical actuator with Bowden cable is used to move the lumbar support, then the lumbar support can be adjusted between positions, but the system requires large and heavy motors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical Bowden cable system with a threaded member and traveling members mechanism. This substitution allows the use of a smaller, lighter motor because the threaded mechanism provides mechanical advantage, converting small rotational forces into sufficient linear force to move the lumbar support, thereby reducing motor weight while maintaining adjustment functionality.
3Ease of operation
If an electromechanical actuator with Bowden cable is used to move the lumbar support, then the lumbar support can be adjusted between positions, but the system produces noise during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the noisy Bowden cable friction-based mechanism with a threaded member and traveling members system. The threaded mechanism provides smoother, quieter operation by converting rotational motion to linear motion through controlled engagement of threads, eliminating the friction and slippage noises characteristic of Bowden cables while maintaining the lumbar support adjustment function.
4Ease of operation
If an electromechanical actuator with Bowden cable is used to move the lumbar support, then the lumbar support can be adjusted between positions, but the system achieves poor total system efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the inefficient Bowden cable system with a threaded member and traveling members mechanism that has lower energy losses. The direct mechanical coupling through threads reduces friction losses compared to the friction-based Bowden cable system, and the integrated actuator assembly minimizes energy dissipation, thereby improving total system efficiency while maintaining lumbar support adjustability.
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 achieves efficient and quiet operation with reduced component weight, enhancing user comfort and flexibility in adjusting lumbar support.
Implementation Method 1
A motor is coupled to the lumbar support. A threaded member is operatively engaged with the motor such that the motor rotates the threaded member about an axis.
Implementation Method 2
Rotation of the threaded member translates the first and second traveling members in opposite axial directions along the threaded member.
Implementation Method 3
A first flexible cable has a first end coupled to the first traveling member for movement therewith, a second end coupled to the fixed frame, and an intermediate portion operatively associated with the lumbar support.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable support system for a seat having a fixed frame includes a support movable from a first position to a second position relative to the frame. An actuator is coupled to only the support and is configured to move the support between the first and second positions. A member is operatively associated with and movable by the actuator. A flexible cable has a first end coupled to the member for travel along the length of the member and a second end coupled to the fixed frame such that movement of the member by the actuator causes the flexible cable to move the support between the first position and the second position.