Modular Vehicle Child Restraint Fixing Device with Lateral Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current child restraint systems in vehicles, such as those using the ISOFIX system, do not allow for lateral adjustment, leading to inefficient use of space in the rear seats, preventing the central area from being used for passengers or additional child restraint systems.

Innovation Solution

A modular fixing device comprising side and central modules with adaptable fixing means and regulation mechanisms, allowing for selective positioning and optimal use of lateral space, including longitudinal movement and adjustable anchoring to vehicle ISOFIX anchorages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If child restraint systems are fixed using standard ISOFIX anchorages, then safety and securement are ensured, but lateral adjustment capability is lost and central space utilization is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelateral adjustment capabilityVSAvoidspace utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing device is divided into multiple independent modules: a first module with first fixing means for vehicle anchorages, a second module with second fixing means for child restraint systems, and an intermediate adapter module. These modules can be independently positioned and adjusted laterally, allowing each segment to optimize space usage while maintaining secure connections throughout the assembly chain.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic adjustment capabilities through regulable connections between modules. The adapter module includes adjustment mechanisms that allow lateral repositioning of the second fixing means relative to the first fixing means, enabling the system to adapt to different spatial requirements while maintaining securement functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If fixed ISOFIX anchorages are used, then structural stability is maintained, but flexibility in positioning child restraint systems is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning flexibilityVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The system separates the stable fixed connection point (first fixing means anchored to vehicle) from the adjustable connection point (second fixing means for child restraint). The intermediate adapter module provides regulated flexibility between these two points, maintaining overall structural stability while enabling positioning adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter module serves as an intermediary element between the fixed vehicle anchorage and the child restraint system. It mediates between the need for stable fixed connection and the requirement for flexible positioning, providing regulated movement capability while maintaining secure structural connections on both ends.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If multiple child restraint systems are to be accommodated, then space utilization improves, but complexity of the fixing system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace utilizationVSAvoidfixing system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The modular fixing device with adjustable adapter modules can serve multiple functions: securing single or multiple child restraint systems, accommodating different restraint types, and adapting to various vehicle configurations. This multi-functionality allows efficient space utilization without requiring entirely separate fixing systems for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The regulable connections in the adapter modules enable dynamic reconfiguration of the fixing system to accommodate different numbers and positions of child restraint systems. This dynamic adaptability allows the same basic structure to handle various configurations without increasing inherent system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3315353B1Securing device for securing objects in a vehicle
Publication Date: 2022.01.12 LAGUNAR HERRANZ JOSE
  • EP3315353B1 patent drawingFigure 1A
  • EP3315353B1 patent drawingFigure 1B
  • EP3315353B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The invention relates to multiple solutions for making use of the space at the sides of the rear seats in a vehicle. A first embodiment comprises a side module having: a first main body (6) in the longitudinal direction; first securing means (7) solidly connected to the first main body (6) so as to secure same to vehicle rings (4) secured to the vehicle; and a first adapter (11). In turn, the first adapter comprises: a first adapter body (12) oriented longitudinally and connected to the first main body (6), such that it can be moved longitudinally in relation thereto; second securing means (13) solidly connected to the first adapter body (12), so as to be secured to anchors mounted on the object (9); and first adjustment means (14) for selectively securing the first adapter body (12) in a desired position in relation to the first main body (6) in the longitudinal direction..