Module Carrier with Integrated Air Ducts to Reduce Assembly Components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing module carrier arrangements for vehicle seats require a high number of components for assembly, particularly for attaching and securing fluid lines, valve blocks, and pumps, due to the need for separate fastenings and hoses.
Innovation Solution
The integration of air ducts or air duct sections into the module carrier material reduces the number of components by eliminating the need for separate hoses, with a cover used to close open channels, simplifying assembly and reducing the overall component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate hoses and fastenings are used to attach fluid lines to the module carrier, then the fluid lines can be securely connected, but the number of components and assembly complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the air ducts directly into the module carrier structure, merging what were previously separate components (hoses and carrier) into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate fastenings and reduces the total component count while maintaining secure fluid line connections through the integrated duct system
Solution Approach 2:
The module carrier is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides structural support, integrates the air duct system, and secures fluid lines simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components for each function, thereby reducing overall device complexity
2Reliability
If separate hoses are used for air transport to components, then fluid transport is reliable, but the number of components and assembly effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The air ducts are merged with the module carrier structure, creating an integrated system where air transport channels are built-in rather than added as separate hoses. This integration maintains reliable fluid transport while significantly reducing assembly effort as no separate hose installation is required
Solution Approach 2:
The air ducts are pre-integrated into the module carrier during manufacturing, so that when the carrier is assembled to the seat structure, the air transport system is already in place and ready for connection. This preliminary integration eliminates the need for separate hose installation steps during final assembly
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used for module carrier assembly, then each component can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall assembly becomes more complex and requires more parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the module carrier structure itself, including air duct integration and fluid line securing features. This merging reduces the total number of parts while maintaining the ability to optimize each function through careful design of the integrated structure
Solution Approach 2:
The module carrier is designed with integrated segments for different functions (air duct sections, fastening features, mounting points) that can be optimized independently within the unified structure, allowing functional optimization without requiring separate components
Data Source
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AI summary
A module carrier arrangement (M) for mounting on the seat structure of a motor vehicle seat and for fixing pneumatic components (6, 8) or non-pneumatic components comprises a module carrier (1) with a front (A) and a rear (B) opposite the front. Optionally, the module carrier arrangement (M) comprises at least one further component (3), wherein air guide channels and/or air guide channel sections (201-210) are integrated in the module carrier (1) and/or in the at least one further component (3).