Seat Back Illumination Module with Integrated Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional overhead reading lights in passenger vehicles are inefficient due to light encroachment on neighboring passengers, increased system complexity, and cumbersome control mechanisms, as well as limitations in size and configuration due to space constraints.
Innovation Solution
The development of an illumination module with a housing and switch member that includes an illumination assembly, where the switch member is pivotally engaged and can transition between on and off states to control the illumination source, allowing for easy activation and deactivation with minimal effort, and is designed for mounting on the seat back with a standardized mounting mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If overhead reading lights are positioned in the ceiling, then they can provide illumination to passengers, but light encroaches on neighboring passengers and increases system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning the illumination source at the seat back rather than overhead, directing light locally to the specific passenger's reading area. This localized positioning ensures that illumination is concentrated where needed without spilling into neighboring passenger spaces, thereby resolving the light encroachment issue while maintaining effective reading lighting.
2Illumination intensity
If overhead reading lights are positioned in the ceiling, then they can illuminate passenger areas, but control mechanisms become complex and space for adjustment is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control mechanism from the overhead ceiling location and integrates it directly into the seat back structure. By taking out the control elements from the complex overhead system and incorporating them locally at the seat level, the design eliminates the need for long control lines and complex routing, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining full illumination functionality.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If reading lights are moved closer to passengers on the seat back, then light encroachment is reduced, but control accessibility becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control mechanism with the illumination assembly at the seat back, creating an integrated unit where the control elements are positioned within easy reach of the passenger. By combining these previously separate elements into a single integrated assembly located at the seat back, the design simultaneously achieves reduced light encroachment and maintained ease of control accessibility.
4Ease of operation
If conventional overhead reading lights are used, then they can be activated with accessible controls, but they require additional control lines that increase system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical control line system with a localized electronic control integrated directly into the seat back assembly. By substituting the mechanical wiring system with an integrated electronic control architecture, the design eliminates the need for extensive control lines while maintaining accessible control functionality, thereby reducing system complexity.
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 provides focused illumination with reduced light encroachment on neighboring passengers, simplifies control, and optimizes space usage, enhancing user experience and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
an illumination source configured to emit light
Data Source
AI summary
A seat back illumination module is provided having a housing defined by an interior and a partially open front face. A switch member with a first position and a second position at least partially protrudes from the front face of the housing and is engaged thereto. An illumination assembly is defined by an output end and has an illumination source. At least a part of the illumination assembly is mounted to the switch member, and the output end is proximal to a section of the switch member that protrudes from the front face of the housing. An electrical switch is connected to the illumination source and operated by movement of the switch member between the first position and the second position to selectively power the illumination source.