Vehicle Seat Adjustable Arm Thermal Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle seats lack the ability to provide dynamic support and alleviate fatigue and discomfort during long periods of driving, as they do not adjust to accommodate changing occupant positions or provide massage-like sensations.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seat system with adjustable arms made from lightweight materials, controlled by a thermal activation system using shape memory alloys, which can change contour and provide support or massage by regulating temperature and locking into desired positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional vehicle seats are used, then the structure is simple and lightweight, but the seats cannot provide dynamic support or massage sensation to occupants
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing adjustable arms that can change position and orientation to provide dynamic support to occupants. The arms are configured to move between different positions and can be adjusted to accommodate changing occupant positions, transforming a static seat structure into a dynamic support system that adapts to occupant needs during driving
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the support function into multiple independent adjustable arms rather than using a single monolithic structure. Each arm can be independently controlled and positioned, allowing for more nuanced and adaptable support while maintaining modular construction that manages overall system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable arms are added to provide support, then occupant comfort is improved, but the weight and package size of the seat increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using a suspension mat with thin flexible elements instead of rigid structural components. The suspension mat can deflect and provide support through controlled flexibility, reducing the need for heavy rigid structures while maintaining occupant support capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical adjustment mechanisms with thermal activation using shape memory alloys. The SMA elements can be actuated by temperature changes to adjust arm positions, eliminating the need for complex motors, gears, and control systems that would add significant weight
3Device complexity
If thermal activation system is used to control arm position, then the system can be simplified, but energy consumption increases due to heating requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using cyclic heating and cooling of the shape memory alloy elements to achieve repeated adjustment cycles. The thermal activation can be applied in periodic pulses rather than continuous heating, allowing the SMA to cycle between martensitic and austenitic phases to provide repeated adjustment movements, thereby reducing overall energy consumption
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 system effectively reduces driver fatigue and discomfort by dynamically adjusting the seat support to mimic natural movement, minimizing weight and package size while offering customizable comfort settings.
Implementation Method 1
the adjustable arm is controlled by a thermally activated material such as a shape memory alloy
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seat includes a seat bottom and a seat back. The seat back is coupled to the seat bottom to move relative to the vehicle seat. The vehicle further includes a support mechanism coupled to the vehicle and configured to vary support provided to an occupant sitting on the vehicle seat.