Modular Seat Assembly with Integrated Airflow Ducts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seat assembly designs, particularly in sport and racing-inspired seats, are complex, difficult to assemble, non-adjustable, and lack comfort features found in luxury seats.
Innovation Solution
A modular/segmented seat assembly with a seatback frame, primary carrier, airflow duct, thermoelectric devices, and adjustable components, including a headrest, that incorporates airflow outlets and movers to provide customizable comfort and climate control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If sport and racing-inspired seat designs are used, then aesthetic appeal and support are improved, but assembly complexity and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The seat assembly is divided into modular components including a seat bottom assembly, a seatback assembly, and a headrest assembly that can be manufactured separately and then easily assembled together using the track and connector system, reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining the sporty aesthetic design
2Shape
If sport and racing-inspired seat designs are used, then aesthetic appeal and support are improved, but ease of assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The seatback assembly incorporates adjustable components including a height-adjustable headrest and a recline mechanism that allows the seatback to dynamically adjust to different user preferences, making the manufacturing and assembly process more flexible and easier while maintaining the sporty aesthetic
3Device complexity
If traditional seat designs are used, then assembly simplicity is maintained, but comfort features and adjustability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The seat assembly integrates multiple functions into unified components: the seatback assembly simultaneously provides structural support, recline functionality, and houses the headrest mechanism; the airflow system provides both cooling and heating functions; this multi-functionality increases adaptability without proportionally increasing assembly complexity
4Device complexity
If traditional seat designs are used, then assembly simplicity is maintained, but comfort features are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The seat assembly incorporates an airflow system with air movers, airflow ducts, and outlets that use pneumatic principles to circulate conditioned air through the seat cushions and backrest, providing active cooling and heating comfort features while maintaining relatively simple assembly through modular integration
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 solution simplifies assembly, offers adjustable and customizable seating with enhanced comfort and climate control, addressing the complexity and comfort shortcomings of existing designs.
Implementation Method 1
A first thermoelectric device (TED) may be connected to the primary carrier and may be configured to heat and/or cool the first airflow
Implementation Method 2
A first air mover may be configured to provide a first airflow to the airflow outlets
Data Source
AI summary
A seat assembly may include a seatback frame, a primary carrier, an airflow duct, and a plurality of airflow outlets. The primary carrier may be connected to the seatback frame. The airflow duct may be defined at least partially by the primary carrier. The plurality of airflow outlets may extend through the primary carrier to an external surface and may be in fluid communication with the airflow duct.