Multi-function lever actuator with bell crank and cable routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seat assemblies require multiple control mechanisms, such as separate levers or buttons, which increase complexity and cost, and are prone to damage, leading to potential repair and replacement issues.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function lever actuation system that uses a single control lever with lost motion slots and cables to control both seat recline and leg rest systems, featuring a rotary component and bell crank mechanism to distribute actuation, and a spring for returning to neutral position, allowing for dual-function control without additional components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control mechanisms (separate levers or buttons) are used to control different seat functions, then each function can be controlled independently, but the device complexity increases and the total cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single control lever is designed to perform multiple functions by incorporating different control mechanisms at different positions along the lever body. The lever includes a first control mechanism for controlling a first actuated system and a second control mechanism for controlling a second actuated system, allowing one component to replace multiple separate controls.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple control functions that would traditionally require separate levers or buttons are merged into a single integrated control lever. The lever combines a first control mechanism and a second control mechanism in one structure, reducing the total number of components while maintaining independent control capability for different seat functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control mechanisms are used, then each function can be controlled independently, but the risk of damage increases and repair needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a single control lever that performs multiple functions, the system reduces the number of separate components that can potentially fail. The unified structure means fewer parts are susceptible to damage, and when maintenance is needed, it involves a single component rather than multiple separate controls.
3Device complexity
If a single control lever is used to control multiple functions, then device complexity is reduced, but the mechanism must handle multiple actuation directions and cable routing
Solution Approach 1:
The control lever is segmented into different control mechanisms positioned at different locations along the lever body. The first control mechanism and second control mechanism are distinct functional zones within the single lever, each responsible for controlling different actuated systems. This segmentation allows for modular design and easier manufacturing while maintaining the integrated structure.
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 simplifies control mechanisms, reduces complexity and cost, and minimizes the risk of damage by integrating dual functions into a single lever, ensuring reliable operation and reduced maintenance needs.
Implementation Method 1
a spring coupled to the static component and configured to resist the rotation of the rotary component in the second direction in order to cause the control lever to return to the neutral position
Data Source
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AI summary
A multi-function lever actuation system (100) includes a control lever (102) having a neutral position and configured to be actuated in a clockwise direction and in a counterclockwise direction. The system further includes a bell crank (106) coupled to the control lever and configured to rotate in an opposite direction from the control lever and to actuate a first controlled component (118) in response to a first rotation of the control lever in a first direction corresponding to the clockwise direction or the counterclockwise direction. The system further includes a first cable (108) coupled to the control lever and configured to actuate a second controlled component (120) in response to a rotation of the control lever in a second direction corresponding to the other of the clockwise direction or the counterclockwise direction.