Removable Vehicle Seat With Integrated Restraint Tower
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat systems do not efficiently manage occupant loads and space utilization, particularly when seats need to be removed for increased cargo space, and lack integrated restraint systems that are both effective and space-efficient.
Innovation Solution
A removable vehicle seat system with a 3-point occupant restraint system featuring shoulder and lap belts with multiple anchors attached to a seat-integrated restraint tower, which also includes structural elements like cross-tubes and towers for load distribution and energy dissipation, along with a riser assembly for adjustable seating and child seat tethering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If anchors are attached to the vehicle for the restraint system, then occupant safety is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint system is merged with the removable seat by integrating the anchors directly into the seat structure. The seat frame includes integrated anchors that are permanently attached to the seat, eliminating the need for separate vehicle-mounted anchors. This combination simplifies the overall system while maintaining safety effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor function is extracted from the vehicle structure and transferred to the removable seat itself. By taking out the anchor requirement from the vehicle and incorporating it into the seat, the system becomes simpler and more adaptable to seat removal and reinstallation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If seats are made removable for space utilization, then cargo space availability is improved, but restraint system reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The restraint system is made dynamic by being permanently attached to the removable seat rather than the vehicle. As the seat is removed or repositioned, the restraint system moves with it, ensuring continuous reliability regardless of seat location. This dynamic attachment maintains safety while enabling flexible space utilization.
3Reliability
If multiple anchors are integrated into the seat, then restraint effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple anchors are merged into a single integrated seat frame structure rather than being separate components. The seat frame is designed with anchors built-in as part of the overall structure, which simplifies manufacturing by reducing the number of separate parts and assembly steps while maintaining multiple anchor points for effective restraint.
Data Source
AI summary
A restraint system for a removable vehicle seat is attached to the vehicle seat. A restraint tower associated with the restraint system transfers energy generated during vehicle impact.