Rotating Unit for Vehicle Seat with Overlapping Flanges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotating units for vehicle seats lack sufficient stability, particularly in motorhomes, where the seat needs to maintain functionality and safety when rotated to different positions without compromising structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A rotating unit comprising a first flange element at the bottom and a second flange element rotatably arranged underneath, with overlapping circular rolling element tracks, such as ball bearing tracks, to provide stability and prevent separation under load, featuring a radially outer and inner rolling element track configuration and grooves for lateral guidance, and a manufacturing method using sheet metal components connected via rolling or other fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional rotating units are used for vehicle seats, then the seat can rotate to different positions, but the stability and structural integrity are insufficient under load
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating unit is divided into separate flange elements (first flange element and second flange element) that can rotate relative to each other, with each element being structurally optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall stability through the segmented design
Solution Approach 2:
The flange elements are arranged in an overlapping configuration where one flange element encompasses the other, creating a nested structure that provides structural integrity while allowing rotation. The overlapping area contains rolling elements that enable relative movement while maintaining strength
2Stability of the object's composition
If the flange elements are supported against each other in the edge region, then the rotating unit becomes closed and stable, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flange element that encompasses the other is divided into two separate parts that are connected through a fastening section, allowing for simplified manufacturing of each part while achieving the compact overlapping structure when assembled
Solution Approach 2:
The rolling elements and grooves are pre-positioned in the overlapping area of the flange elements during manufacturing, so that when the parts are assembled, the stable compact structure is automatically achieved without requiring complex post-assembly operations
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 creates a compact, stable rotating unit that maintains structural integrity and withstands high loads, ensuring the seat's stability and functionality when rotated, while allowing for efficient production and assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a first and second circular rolling element arrangement with rolling element tracks, in particular Ball bearing tracks
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A rotary unit for a vehicle seat is proposed, consisting of a first flange element (3) located at the bottom in the installed position and a second flange element rotatably arranged on the lower flange element (3). A first and second circular rolling element arrangement with rolling element tracks of different diameters is provided between the first and second flange elements to rotatably mount the flange elements (3) relative to each other. According to the invention, a first radially outer rolling element track is defined by one flange element encompassing and covering the other flange element around its outer edge, so that a rolling element track is formed in an overlap region b.