Vehicle Seat Backrest Actuator with Integrated Lock State Indicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional actuating devices for vehicle seat release mechanisms lack an indicator to signal the locking or unlocked state, making it difficult for users to determine if the backrest is securely locked relative to the seat portion.
Innovation Solution
An actuating device with a housing containing a first and second actuating element, along with an integrated indicator element, where actuation of either element releases the locked mechanism and simultaneously indicates the released or locked state through a single indicator, independent of which element is actuated, utilizing a lever and Bowden cable mechanism for compact and user-friendly operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional actuating devices are used without an indicator, then the device complexity is reduced, but the user cannot determine the locking state of the backrest
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a visual feedback mechanism through an indicator element that displays the locking state of the backrest. The indicator provides real-time information to the user about whether the backrest is locked or unlocked, eliminating the information loss present in conventional devices without adding excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator element serves multiple functions: it visually indicates the locking state, provides user feedback, and integrates into the existing actuating device structure. This multi-functionality approach addresses the information deficiency while maintaining device simplicity.
2Device complexity
If a single indicator element is used to indicate both locking states, then the device complexity is reduced compared to multiple indicators, but the indicator must reliably distinguish between locked and unlocked states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color changes or visual position changes of the indicator element to distinguish between locked and unlocked states. This allows a single indicator to provide clear, unambiguous information about the locking state, maintaining both simplicity and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator element is designed to show the absence of a state (e.g., hidden or in one position) for locked and presence (e.g., visible or in another position) for unlocked, or vice versa. This inverted indication method ensures clear differentiation with a single element.
3Area of stationary object
If the indicator element is integrated into the housing with the actuating elements, then the overall device size is reduced, but the indicator must still be clearly visible to the user
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator element is nested within or integrated into the housing structure containing the actuating elements. This nesting approach minimizes the overall device footprint while maintaining indicator visibility through strategic positioning and design.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure is designed with local modifications such as windows, openings, or transparent sections specifically at the indicator location. This allows the indicator to remain integrated in the housing while maintaining optimal visibility to the user.
Data Source
AI summary
An actuating device for releasing a locked release and/or adjustment mechanism of a vehicle seat having a first and a second actuating element. Provision is made that the first and second actuating elements and an indicator element are arranged together in a housing of the actuating device. The actuating elements are connected to at least one actuating mechanism that provides for a release of the locked release and/or adjustment mechanism upon actuation of one of the actuating elements. The actuation of one of the actuating elements substantially simultaneously results in an actuation and indication of the indicator element concerning the released or locked state of the release and/or adjustment mechanism.