Movable Seat Assembly Layout for Passenger-Cargo Autonomous Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous vehicles lack the flexibility and efficiency in transporting both passengers and cargo, as they often require dedicated space for seating and cargo, limiting versatility and space utilization.
Innovation Solution
The autonomous vehicle features moveable seat assemblies that can be configured between a seating position and a stowed position, allowing for increased interior space for cargo when not in use. Additionally, the vehicle has a unique door arrangement and storage bins that facilitate efficient loading and unloading from multiple sides.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated space is allocated for seating and cargo in autonomous vehicles, then passenger transport capability is ensured, but vehicle versatility and space utilization deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The seat assembly is designed with dynamic movement capability, transitioning between a deployed configuration for passenger transport and a retracted configuration for cargo transport. The seat base moves along a guide rail between a first position (deployed) and a second position (retracted), allowing the vehicle interior space to be dynamically reconfigured based on transport needs, thereby resolving the contradiction between dedicated space allocation and vehicle versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The seat assembly serves multiple functions: it provides seating for passengers when deployed, and acts as a space-defining element for cargo areas when retracted. This multi-functionality allows a single structure to fulfill both passenger transport and cargo transport requirements, enhancing vehicle versatility without requiring separate dedicated spaces for each function
2Adaptability or versatility
If moveable seat assemblies are implemented for flexible space configuration, then vehicle versatility improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seat assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: a seat base, a guide rail system, and a positioning mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while maintaining flexibility. The seat base can move along the guide rail without requiring complex integrated mechanisms, thus reducing device complexity while preserving space flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The guide rail acts as an intermediary element between the seat base and the vehicle floor, providing a constrained path for movement. This intermediary structure simplifies the positioning mechanism by replacing complex multi-axis actuators with a simple linear guide system, reducing device complexity while enabling the seat base to transition smoothly between deployed and retracted positions
3Volume of stationary object
If seat assembly is retracted to increase cargo space, then interior space utilization improves, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The seat assembly incorporates an automatic positioning mechanism that uses the vehicle's existing motion (acceleration, deceleration, turning) to drive the seat base along the guide rail. This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual operation or complex motorized systems, allowing the seat to automatically transition between positions based on vehicle operation, thereby improving ease of operation while maximizing cargo space
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
This configuration enhances the vehicle's versatility and efficiency by allowing for flexible use of space between passenger transport and cargo transport, while also enabling efficient access and storage solutions.
Implementation Method 1
The shaft is threaded and rotation of the shaft results in movement of both the carriage and the seat assembly along the linear path of movement
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to an autonomous vehicle configurable for transportation of either passengers, cargo, or both. The various aspects of this disclosure, which include moveable seat assemblies, a door arrangement, and storage bins, among other things, provide the vehicle with increased functionality and versatility, leading to more efficient vehicle use.