Vehicle Seat Airflow Connector for Airtight Plenum Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Air routing systems in vehicle seats face inefficiencies due to non-airtight passages between thermal electric devices (TEDs) and channel liners, and variable assembly challenges caused by the mounting plate's positioning relative to the access opening.
Innovation Solution
An airflow connector with a first rigid portion, a flexible body portion, and an adherable or weldable second portion, designed to form a substantially airtight seal between an air conditioning device and a plenum member, improving assembly by providing a secure and consistent connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mounting plate is used to provide air passage from TED to channel liner, then air routing is enabled, but air tightness is insufficient because the mounting plate is not directly secured to the channel liner
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate is merged with the channel liner through direct securing mechanisms (adhesive, mechanical clips, or ultrasonic welding), eliminating the gap between components and achieving air tightness while reducing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
An adhesive layer or mechanical fastening mechanism acts as an intermediary between the mounting plate and channel liner, creating a secure bond that ensures air tightness without requiring complex multi-component structures
2Ease of operation
If the mounting plate position relative to access opening is variable, then assembly flexibility is improved, but assembly consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate includes pre-formed positioning features (ridges, grooves, or alignment pins) that guide correct placement relative to the access opening before final securing, ensuring position consistency while maintaining ease of assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting plate and channel liner incorporate self-aligning features such as complementary geometric shapes or snap-fit mechanisms that automatically ensure correct positioning during assembly, eliminating the need for precise manual placement
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for routing air within a vehicle seat is provided. The system includes an airflow connector configured to provide a substantially airtight seal between a plenum member and an air conditioning device. The system is configured to improve the assembly of the airflow connector to a plenum member.