Vehicle Seat Bracket Assembly Using Alignment Plate Datum Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat assembly methods face challenges with accurate component positioning due to tolerance stackups, leading to unreliable operation of mechanisms, particularly in easy-entry modes that require precise relative movements and engagement/disengagement of features.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seat subassembly design featuring a first and second bracket with pinned connections and an alignment plate, where datum points on the alignment plate are positioned at specific reference dimensions from the pins, facilitating accurate rotational positioning and assembly using a base fixture and secondary fixture to ensure precise alignment and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If multiple stages and movement of in-process subassemblies between different fixtures are used for assembly, then various components can be assembled, but tolerance stackups occur resulting in inaccurate positioning of components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple assembly operations into a single fixture system. The base fixture holds the first bracket while the secondary fixture is positioned relative to it, allowing pins, alignment plates, and brackets to be assembled together in one location rather than moving subassemblies between multiple fixtures, thereby eliminating tolerance stackup from sequential positioning operations
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment plate serves as an intermediary component between the first and second brackets. It provides datum points that establish precise relative positioning relationships, acting as a reference mediator that ensures accurate angular and positional relationships without requiring direct measurement or positioning between the brackets themselves
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple fixtures are used for different assembly stages, then various components can be assembled, but the complexity of the assembly process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple fixtures into an integrated base fixture and secondary fixture system that works together in a single location. The base fixture provides the primary reference frame while the secondary fixture attaches relative to it, combining what would traditionally require separate fixtures into one coordinated assembly station
Solution Approach 2:
The base fixture serves multiple functions: it holds the first bracket, provides the reference frame for positioning the secondary fixture, and maintains the overall assembly geometry. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized fixtures for each assembly operation
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seat subassembly includes a first bracket and a second bracket rotatably coupled with the first bracket. First and second pins are welded to the first bracket, and an alignment plate is welded to the second bracket. First and second datum points along the alignment plate are positioned at first and second reference dimensions from the first pin and the second pin, respectively, when the second bracket is in a reference position with respect to the first bracket.