Vehicle Seat Recliner Stop Module for Universal Adaptability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat fitting systems require project-specific supports due to variations in seat and backrest geometry, leading to inefficiencies and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A modular fitting system incorporating a stop module with a hand lever, transmission rod, and optional backrest compensation spring, which allows for torque transmission, protection against misuse, unlocking, and defined end positions, independent of seat structure geometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a support is attached to the adapter or backrest for each vehicle seat type, then the lever stop function is achieved, but the device complexity increases due to project-specific requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The stop module is designed as a universal component that can be used across different vehicle seat types without modification. It integrates multiple functions including lever stop, torque transmission limitation, and protection against misuse into a single standardized module that replaces the need for project-specific support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines the stop function with the torque transmission mechanism by integrating the stop module directly into the fitting system. The stop module merges the lever stop function with torque transmission limitation and protection functions, eliminating the need for separate project-specific support components.
2Reliability
If the torque transmission is limited to a defined angular range, then the hand lever can only be swiveled between initial and maximum deflection positions, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stop module is pre-configured with stops that prevent the hand lever from being swiveled beyond a defined angular range. This preliminary anti-action protects the inner components of the fitting from damage by preventing excessive force application, while still allowing normal operation within the permitted range.
3Reliability
If the stop module is held against the fitting by a return spring, then the transmission rod is prevented from relative movement, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring automatically returns the stop module to its initial position after actuation, eliminating the need for additional mechanisms to reset the system. The spring provides self-service by maintaining the locked position and enabling automatic recovery, reducing the need for complex control mechanisms.
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 modular system provides efficient torque transmission, protects internal components, allows for adjustable backrest inclination, and ensures secure locking and unlocking mechanisms, reducing the need for project-specific supports and enhancing usability.
Implementation Method 1
The stop module is held against the fitting by means of a return spring, which (below the preload of the return spring) prevents a relative movement of the transmission rod
Implementation Method 2
The first function that results from the operative connection is the transmission of torque from the hand lever to the transmission rod, which transmits the torque to the fittings when the hand lever is pivoted in the unlocking direction
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
For a recliner system for a vehicle seat, in particular a motor vehicle seat, comprising at least one recliner (10), which has a first recliner part (11) and a second recliner part (12), which can be locked to each other and can be rotated relative to each other about an axis (A), a transfer rod (7), the rotation of which unlocks the recliner (10), and a hand lever (5), the operation of which rotates the transfer rod (7) in order to unlock the recliner (10), a stop module (50; 150) is provided, which is operatively connected to the hand lever (5) and to the transfer rod (7) and which stops the hand lever (5) and one of the recliner parts (11, 12) relative to each other in at least one rotational direction.