Modular Backrest Lever with Remote Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automotive seat backrest control systems are not adaptable to various vehicle designs, requiring multiple actuation designs for different vehicle configurations, which complicates installation and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A modular backrest remote control system comprising a mounting bracket assembly, pivot bracket, pivot rod, lever arm, and user-actuated lever handle, allowing independent mounting and actuation of the backrest, with a biasing spring to facilitate easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If actuation mechanisms for backrest and head restraint are assembled as integral components of the vehicle seat, then the seat structure is complete and functional, but the number of actuation designs increases significantly to accommodate different vehicle designs
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest control mechanism is separated from the seat assembly into an independent remote control unit. This segmentation allows the actuation mechanism to be designed once and reused across multiple vehicle designs, reducing the number of unique actuation designs while maintaining adaptability to different vehicle configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control mechanism is designed as a universal component that can be mounted in various locations and configured for different vehicle types. The mounting bracket assembly and pivot mechanism provide multi-functional capability to accommodate different vehicle designs without requiring custom actuation systems for each application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If actuation mechanisms are designed for each specific vehicle design, then the mechanism fits the vehicle configuration, but installation becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the control mechanism from the seat and creating an independent remote control unit with standardized mounting interfaces, the system enables simpler installation procedures. The modular design allows for easier integration into different vehicle configurations without complex custom fabrication for each application.
3Ease of operation
If the lever handle is held in the release position without biasing force, then the backrest remains unrestrained, but the lever handle may unintentionally move causing unintended backrest movement
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing spring applies a preliminary force to hold the lever handle in the lock position, preventing unintended movement. When the user intentionally moves the lever to the release position, the biasing spring's counteracting force ensures that movement only occurs when deliberate user action overcomes this pre-applied opposing force, thereby preventing accidental activation.
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
Enables flexible and adaptable backrest control in various vehicle designs, improving installation ease and user convenience by allowing independent mounting and operation of the backrest, enhancing compatibility with different vehicle configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing spring... The biasing spring biases the user actuated lever handle to the lock position with a biasing force
Data Source
AI summary
A modular backrest control includes a mounting bracket, a pivot bracket attached to the mounting bracket, a pivot rod rotatably mounted on the pivot bracket, a lever arm mounted on the pivot rod, and a user actuated lever handle rigidly mounted on the pivot rod. The lever arm is rotatable from a first position to a second position. The lever arm has a connector for attachment to a backrest actuation cable. The user actuated lever handle is rotatable between a lock position and a release position such that rotation of the lever handle from the lock position to the release position causes rotation of the lever arm from a first position to a second position. Characteristically, rotation from the first position to the second position actuates the backrest actuation cable.