Modular Automotive Seat Layout for Passenger Sightline Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional automotive seats are unalterable and lack configuration to provide all passengers with a good line of sight outside the vehicle, leading to issues like motion sickness.
Innovation Solution
An automotive seat system with exchangeable cushions and modular seat assemblies that can be moved to improve each occupant's line of sight, featuring center and side seat assemblies with actuators and processors to control movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional automotive seats are made unalterable and fixed in configuration, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but passenger comfort and line of sight are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The seat assembly is divided into separable components including the seat pan, backrest, and exchangeable cushions. Each component can be independently configured or replaced, allowing different seat arrangements (single seat, split bench, bench) without redesigning the entire seat system.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat system incorporates actuators that enable dynamic reconfiguration of seat positions and configurations. The center seat can move forward or backward, and cushions can be automatically stowed or deployed, transforming the static seat into a dynamically adaptable system.
2Ease of operation
If seats are fixed in their initial factory configuration, then device complexity is minimized, but passenger line of sight and comfort are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The seat system automatically reconfigures itself without requiring manual intervention. When a door is opened or closing, the system autonomously moves the center seat forward or backward and stows or deploys cushions, eliminating the need for passengers to manually adjust seats.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning seats and cushions before passenger entry or exit. The center seat is automatically moved to an optimal position in advance, and cushions are stowed beforehand, ensuring smooth passenger access without delays.
3Ease of operation
If side seat cushions remain in open position, then passenger entry and exit is facilitated, but center seat access is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The seat reconfiguration process occurs continuously and automatically in the background without interrupting passenger flow. As passengers enter or exit, the system continuously adjusts seat positions and cushion configurations, ensuring seamless operation without noticeable delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat system operates on periodic cycles triggered by door events. When a door opens or closes, the system executes a periodic reconfiguration sequence, moving seats and cushions in a predetermined pattern that optimizes access while maintaining overall system organization.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed embodiments include systems, devices, and methods for automotive seats for a vehicle, and seating arrangements within a vehicle. Disclosed embodiments include systems, devices, and methods for moving a vehicle seat between a first driving position and a second access position and moving the vehicle seat between the second access position and the first driving position. The driving position may be in the center of the vehicle and the access positions may be on either side of a vehicle. Disclosed embodiments include systems, devices, and methods for modular automotive seat assemblies comprising interchangeable portions in order to replace worn-out or damaged parts, or to change seat styles and configurations. Disclosed embodiments include systems, devices, and methods for automotive seating arrangements that allow for better line-of-sight for passengers.