Pneumatic Lumbar Support Layout for Simpler Multi-Chamber Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lumbar supports with multiple pneumatically operated chambers require complex electronic control systems and multiple control elements for adjustment, making simple operation difficult and increasing construction complexity.
Innovation Solution
A lumbar support design featuring partially overlapping pneumatically operated chambers, where some chambers have direct air supply lines and others share air pressure connections with these, allowing for variable adjustment using a simplified control element, such as a four-way switch, with two outer chambers and two central chambers arranged perpendicularly to control the curve apex.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If more than two pneumatically operated chambers are used to achieve maximally variable adjustment of the lumbar support, then the adaptability of the lumbar support is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for electronic control systems and multiple control elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple chambers (four chambers total) into a single integrated lumbar support unit that can be controlled by a single four-way control element. The chambers are arranged with partial overlap and share air supply connections, allowing one control element to regulate all chambers simultaneously. This merging approach maintains high adaptability while avoiding the need for separate control elements for each chamber, thus resolving the contradiction between adjustability and control complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The four-way control element serves multiple functions by controlling all four chambers simultaneously. Instead of requiring separate control elements for each chamber, this single control element can adjust the curve apex position, lumbar support height, and overall support firmness by regulating air pressure in all chambers. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity while maintaining comprehensive adjustability.
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate control elements are provided for each chamber, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple control elements and separate control devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions for all four chambers into a single four-way control element. This control element can independently regulate air pressure in each chamber or adjust them in combination, providing intuitive control for all lumbar support functions. This approach maintains ease of operation by providing direct control over all chambers while eliminating the need for multiple separate control elements, thus resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and device complexity.
3Device complexity
If conventional two-chamber systems are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability of the lumbar support is limited and cannot achieve maximally variable adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The lumbar support is divided into four separate pneumatically operated chambers arranged with partial overlap along the longitudinal direction. This segmentation allows independent or combined control of different regions, enabling precise adjustment of the curve apex position and lumbar support height. The four chambers provide greater adaptability and variable adjustment range compared to conventional two-chamber systems, while still maintaining relatively simple construction through shared air supply connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a vertical dimension to the chamber arrangement by positioning chambers at different heights and depths within the seat back. The four chambers are arranged not only along the longitudinal direction but also in the vertical and depth directions, creating a three-dimensional distribution. This multi-dimensional arrangement enables comprehensive adjustment of lumbar support characteristics and curve apex position, significantly increasing adaptability while maintaining construction simplicity through the shared air supply system.
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
Enables maximally variable adjustment of the lumbar support curve apex with reduced air supply lines, allowing for easy installation in vehicle seats without separate devices for individual chamber control, and improved pressure distribution compared to conventional two-chamber systems.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of pneumatically operated chambers for adjusting the curvature of a seat back
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a lumbar support comprising a plurality of pneumatically operated chambers (11-14) for adjusting the curvature of a seat back, wherein the lumbar support comprises two outer chambers (11, 12) and two central chambers (13, 14) in the longitudinal direction of the seat back, wherein the two central chambers (13, 14) are arranged over one another perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of the seat back between the two outer chambers, wherein each outer chamber has an air connection to one of the two central chambers.