Vehicle Seat Bowden Cable Latch with Integrated Spring Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control elements for vehicle seats with Bowden cable systems are complex to produce and prone to material fatigue due to frequent use, making them unusable over time.
Innovation Solution
A control element comprising a second element movable relative to a first element, connected via a Bowden cable, with a spring element and latching mechanism that allows for easy adjustment and locking of seat parameters, where the first and spring elements are formed in one piece, simplifying production and reducing material fatigue through a curved spiral spring design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a control element with multiple separate components is used for Bowden cable systems, then the control element can provide latching functionality, but the production becomes complex and material fatigue occurs due to frequent use
Solution Approach 1:
The first element and the spring element are merged into a single integrated component formed in one piece. This reduces the total number of separate parts, simplifies production, and eliminates potential failure points from assembly interfaces while maintaining the latching functionality through the integrated spring mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The first element is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a structural support element, houses the spring mechanism, provides the latching surface, and guides the second element. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components
2Ease of operation
If traditional control elements are used for frequent adjustment, then seat parameters can be modified, but material fatigue occurs making the control elements unusable
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is designed to be dynamically compliant, allowing it to flex and absorb repeated loading cycles during frequent adjustments. The spring's elastic properties enable it to repeatedly store and release energy without permanent deformation, accommodating frequent user operations while preventing material fatigue
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element acts as a cushioning mechanism that absorbs and distributes the mechanical stresses from frequent adjustments before they can cause damage to other components. By providing this protective cushioning in advance, the design prevents stress concentration that would lead to material fatigue
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 a simple, cost-effective, and durable control element that allows users to easily adjust vehicle seat parameters while preventing material fatigue, ensuring a longer service life and stable operation.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (5), on which a first latching element (6) is provided, wherein the first latching element (6) presses against a second latching element (7) through the spring force of the spring element (5)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a control element, in particular for a vehicle seat, comprising a second element which is arranged to be movable relative to a first element, wherein the second element is connected to a Bowden cable and is lockable relative to the first element, wherein the control element comprises a spring element, on which a first latching element is provided, wherein the first latching element presses against a second latching element through the spring force of the spring element, whereby the first latching element and the second latching element latch, wherein the first element and the spring element are formed in one piece and the second latching element is arranged on the second element, or the second element and the spring element are formed in one piece and the second latching element is arranged on the first element.