Powered Headrest Quick Disconnect With Concealed Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current headrest designs in the automotive industry lack the ability to provide multiple powered adjustments and quick disconnection from the vehicle seat while maintaining necessary electrical connections, failing to accommodate diverse passenger postures and preferences effectively.
Innovation Solution
A headrest assembly with a linkage system featuring adjustable mechanisms for both horizontal and vertical movement, powered by actuators, and a quick disconnect mechanism that allows for easy installation and removal, along with concealed telescoping covers to maintain aesthetics and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a headrest assembly provides multiple powered adjustments for horizontal and vertical movement, then the adjustability and comfort for vehicle occupants is improved, but the device complexity and structural requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest assembly is divided into separate functional modules: a linkage system with first and second adjustment mechanisms for horizontal and vertical movement, a telescoping cover assembly for aesthetic concealment, and a quick disconnect mechanism with electrical connections. This segmentation allows each mechanism to be optimized independently while maintaining overall adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The headrest assembly incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through powered mechanisms that enable both horizontal (fore and aft) and vertical movement. The telescoping cover assembly also provides dynamic concealment of the linkage system during adjustment, maintaining aesthetics while enabling full range of motion.
2Ease of operation
If a quick disconnect mechanism is implemented for easy installation and removal of the headrest, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of electrical connections may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The quick disconnect mechanism includes pre-positioned electrical connectors that are automatically aligned and engaged when the headrest assembly is installed on the seatback. The connectors are designed with guide features that ensure proper mating before mechanical locking occurs, preventing connection errors.
Solution Approach 2:
Electrical connectors serve as intermediaries between the headrest assembly and the seatback, providing both electrical power transmission and mechanical positioning. The connectors are integrated with the quick disconnect mechanism, allowing simultaneous electrical and mechanical connection through a single operation.
3Shape
If telescoping covers are used to conceal the linkage system, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping cover assembly is merged with the linkage system, where the covers are integrated components that move synchronously with the adjustment mechanisms. This merging eliminates the need for separate concealment mechanisms, reducing overall complexity while maintaining aesthetic appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping covers dynamically adjust their position in coordination with the linkage system movement. When the headrest adjusts horizontally or vertically, the covers telescope to conceal the mechanism, and when stationary, they provide a clean aesthetic appearance. This dynamic behavior is achieved through mechanical coupling rather than independent control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A headrest assembly includes a linkage system with a first adjustment mechanism configured to power fore and aft movement of a mounting plate. A headrest bun is slideably coupled to the mounting plate and is vertically adjustable via a second adjustment mechanism. A telescoping cover assembly is operable between stowed and deployed positions and configured to substantially conceal the linkage system as the linkage system moves between extended and retracted positions. A disconnect clip includes a first portion disposed on one or more support posts configured to support the headrest assembly, and a second portion disposed on the seatback frame. Power is provided to the first and second adjustment mechanisms when the first portion of the disconnect clip is electrically coupled to the second portion of the disconnect clip.