Rotatable Seatback Panel for Kinetic Energy Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle designs face challenges in incorporating effective energy absorbers for rear occupants during frontal impacts, as the space within the vehicle is limited and current solutions are not cost-effective to install and replace.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable panel attached to the vehicle seatback via a hinge joint, which deploys to create a kinetic energy-absorbing buffer space between rear and front seat occupants, utilizing an actuator and impact sensing system to trigger deployment, and featuring a deformable lever and flexible panel to absorb energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional energy absorber is installed for rear occupants, then energy absorption capability is improved, but vehicle interior space is reduced and installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seatback panel serves multiple functions: it acts as both the seatback structure and the energy-absorbing element. When deployed, the panel itself absorbs energy through its deformation and rotation, eliminating the need for separate energy absorber components and preserving interior space.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel transitions from a static seatback structure to a dynamic energy-absorbing mechanism during impact. The panel rotates about the hinge joint and deforms under impact forces, dynamically absorbing energy while maintaining a compact stowed position during normal operation.
2Reliability
If a traditional energy absorber is installed for rear occupants, then energy absorption capability is improved, but installation and replacement cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seatback panel integrates the energy absorption function into an existing component, eliminating the need for separate energy absorber parts that would require specialized installation and replacement procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel utilizes the seatback's own structural components (panel, hinge joint, lever) to perform energy absorption, rather than requiring external active systems with sensors and actuators, thereby simplifying installation and reducing costs.
3Reliability
If an active energy absorber with sensors and actuators is used, then energy absorption effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses passive mechanical components that automatically respond to impact forces without requiring electronic sensors, controllers, or actuators. The lever mechanism and panel deformation occur naturally in response to impact, eliminating complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential energy absorption function from complex active systems and implements it through simple passive mechanical means, removing unnecessary sensors, actuators, and control electronics while maintaining effectiveness.
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 solution effectively absorbs kinetic energy from rear occupants during impacts while minimizing space usage and maintaining a cost-effective installation, enhancing safety within the vehicle's packaging constraints.
Implementation Method 1
A rotatable panel attached to the vehicle seatback via a hinge joint, which deploys to create a kinetic energy-absorbing buffer space between rear and front seat occupants
Implementation Method 2
A rotatable panel attached to the vehicle seatback via a hinge joint
Data Source
AI summary
A seatback includes a frame and a panel rotatably coupled to the frame. A support bracket is attached to the frame with a lever is rotatably coupled to the support bracket. The lever is configured to engage the panel with a frame supported actuator via a cable attached to the actuator and the lever.