Multi-Component Spring System for Dynamic Thigh Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle seats lack dynamic support for thigh and seat cushion areas, failing to provide optimal comfort for occupants of varying sizes due to inadequate spring systems that do not adjust effectively to different body types and weight distributions.
Innovation Solution
A multi-component spring system featuring a tilt plate coupled to a base with a cushion spring and dynamic spring, allowing for rotational movement and adjustable resistance to accommodate different body types, with high and low-resistance portions to provide proportional support and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional single spring system is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot provide optimal support for occupants of varying sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The spring system is divided into multiple independent spring assemblies, each targeting specific body regions (thigh, cushion, back). Each assembly can be independently configured with appropriate spring constants to match different body types, allowing the seat to adapt to various occupants without requiring a completely different design.
Solution Approach 2:
Different spring assemblies are assigned different spring constants based on their location and the specific body region they support. The thigh support area receives springs with one constant, the cushion area receives springs with another constant, and the back support receives springs with yet another constant. This local differentiation allows each region to be optimized for its specific function while collectively providing adaptability to different body types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple springs with different constants are used, then support for varying body types is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seat incorporates multiple spring assemblies that can collectively serve different body types through their combined action. The same set of spring assemblies with different constants works together to support both smaller and larger occupants by distributing the load across multiple springs with varying stiffness characteristics, eliminating the need for separate spring systems for different occupant sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes springs with different spring constants (stiffness parameters) to accommodate varying body types. By selecting appropriate spring constants for each assembly based on the intended occupant range, the system achieves adaptability through parameter variation rather than through structural redesign or additional complex mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If the spring system is designed for stationary support, then stability is achieved, but dynamic support during vehicle operation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The spring assemblies are positioned and configured to respond dynamically to occupant movement during vehicle operation. The multiple springs with different constants allow for progressive engagement as the occupant moves, providing smooth dynamic support that adapts to changing load distributions while maintaining stable support when the occupant is stationary.
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 system dynamically adjusts to provide greater comfort and support for both smaller and larger occupants by varying the resistance and movement of the thigh support and cushion spring, ensuring optimal seating experience across a range of body types.
Implementation Method 1
A cushion spring extends from a rear of the base to the tilt plate proximate the first horizontal axis. Operation of the tilt plate about the first horizontal axis further operates the cushion spring about a second horizontal axis positioned proximate the rear of the base.
Implementation Method 2
A dynamic spring biases the thigh support away from the tilt plate. A downward force applied to the thigh support biases the thigh support toward the tilt plate
Implementation Method 3
A plate spring biases a tilt plate toward an upward position relative to a base
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seat includes a tilt plate rotationally coupled at a first horizontal axis to a front of a base. A cushion spring extends from a rear of the base to the tilt plate. Rotation of the tilt plate rotates the cushion spring about a second horizontal axis. A thigh support is rotationally coupled to the tilt plate. A dynamic spring biases the thigh support away from the tilt plate.