Full Memory Seat Track Mechanism Automatic Position Recall
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automotive seat assemblies typically do not return to a previously selected position after being moved to an easy-entry position, requiring occupants to manually readjust the seat.
Innovation Solution
A seat track assembly with a latch mechanism and memory mechanism that allows the seat to be locked in a selected position and automatically return to it after being moved to an easy-entry position, utilizing a memory plate and tooth rack system to identify the previous position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the seat assembly is moved to an easy-entry position, then ingress and egress to the rear seat assembly or storage area is improved, but the seat assembly does not return to the previously selected fore/aft seating position requiring manual readjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The memory mechanism stores the previously selected fore/aft seating position in advance (when the seat back is in the upright position). When the seat back is later pivoted to the dumped position, the stored position information is automatically retrieved and used to return the seat assembly to the correct position, eliminating the need for manual readjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides automatic feedback by detecting when the seat back is pivoted to the dumped position and automatically returning the seat assembly to the previously selected position. This closed-loop feedback mechanism eliminates the need for manual intervention that would otherwise be required to restore the seat position.
2Ease of operation
If a memory mechanism is added to automatically return the seat to a previous position, then convenience is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The memory mechanism is integrated into the existing seat track assembly and latch mechanism, allowing the same components to serve multiple functions: normal position locking, easy-entry position movement, and automatic position recall. This multi-functionality approach adds the memory capability without requiring entirely separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory mechanism is combined with the existing latch mechanism and seat back positioning system. The memory plate and tooth rack work together with the latch to provide both the memory function and the locking function through an integrated design, reducing overall system complexity compared to separate independent systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
A seat track assembly includes a latch mechanism operable to allow movement of a movable track relative to a fixed track between a plurality of positions. A memory mechanism is operable between a home position, coupled with the movable track, and a memory position, coupled with the fixed track, to define a selected position. Actuation of the memory mechanism to the memory position unlocks the latch mechanism to allow movement of the movable track in a first direction away from the selected position to an easy-entry position. In response to movement of the movable track in a second direction from the easy-entry position, the memory mechanism blocks the movable track at the selected position, allowing the latch mechanism to lock and the memory mechanism to return to the home position. The latch mechanism operates independently to unlock the latch mechanism when the memory mechanism is in the home position.