Rear Seat Handle Interlock Using Seat Back Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interlock mechanisms for vehicle rear seats are complex, expensive, and require synchronized timing and close tolerances, failing to effectively prevent erroneous operation into a misuse position when the seat back is rotated forward onto the seat cushion.
Innovation Solution
A handle interlock assembly that selectively decouples the release handle from the seat cushion latch release, using a handle pivot link, latch pivot link, and interlock bracket to prevent rotation of the latch pivot link when the seat back is folded towards the seat cushion, thereby preventing the vehicle rear seat from being repositioned into an easy-entry position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing interlock mechanisms are used to prevent erroneous operation, then seat position control is achieved, but device complexity increases and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the interlock function from a separate complex mechanism and integrates it directly into the existing handle assembly. The interlock arm is coupled to the handle pivot link, allowing the handle structure itself to control latch release based on seat back position, thereby preventing erroneous operation without adding a separate complex interlock system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the interlock function with the handle assembly by coupling the interlock arm to the handle pivot link. This integration combines multiple functions (handle operation, latch release control, and position-based interlocking) into a single unified mechanism, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability
2Reliability
If existing interlock mechanisms are used to prevent misuse position, then safety is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive components such as the interlock arm, pivot links, and cable connections that can be manufactured at low cost. These basic mechanical elements provide the necessary interlock function without requiring expensive materials or complex manufacturing processes
Solution Approach 2:
The interlock mechanism is designed to be self-regulating through the mechanical coupling of the interlock arm to the handle pivot link. The system automatically prevents latch release when the seat back is in the folded position without requiring external control systems, sensors, or complex actuation mechanisms, thereby reducing manufacturing cost
3Reliability
If existing interlock mechanisms are used, then erroneous operation is prevented, but synchronized timing and close tolerances are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a mechanically coupled system where the interlock arm and handle pivot link move together as a unified assembly. This coupling ensures that the interlock function is always in sync with handle operation without requiring precise timing coordination or complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the interlock function into discrete mechanical segments (interlock arm, handle pivot link, cable connections) that are easily manufactured and assembled with standard tolerances. Each component is simple in design, allowing for straightforward manufacturing without requiring close tolerances or complex synchronization
Data Source
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AI summary
An interlock mechanism prevents erroneous operation of a vehicle rear seat. The vehicle seat has a seat back rotatably coupled to a seat cushion. The interlock mechanism includes a handle pivot link, a latch pivot link, and an interlock bracket rotatably coupled to a pivot pin. When the seat back is in an upright position, the interlock bracket releasably couples the handle pivot link to the latch pivot link such that rotation of the handle pivot link rotates the latch pivot link causing the cushion latches to be released. When the seat back is folded towards the seat cushion, the interlock bracket is moved to an interlock position decoupling the handle pivot link and the latch pivot link such that rotating the handle pivot link does not rotate the latch pivot link and does not release the cushion latches.