Seat Control Button Assembly With Snap-In Retaining Fingers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing button assemblies for reclining seats are difficult to install in space-constrained environments, particularly when limited space requires holding the assembly from the underside during mounting.
Innovation Solution
The button assembly features flexible retaining members that compress and expand to securely snap into the seat panel from the outside, eliminating the need to hold the assembly during installation, using cantilevered or reflexed portions to inhibit removal and provide a secure fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the button assembly is installed using conventional methods requiring holding from the underside, then the assembly can be securely mounted, but the installation process becomes difficult in space-constrained environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional installation approach by providing access to the button assembly from the outside of the panel rather than requiring access from the underside. The button housing is configured to be advanced through an opening in the panel from the outer surface, and the flexible retaining members engage with the panel from the outside, completely reversing the traditional installation direction and enabling installation in space-constrained environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible retaining members are designed to automatically engage with the panel opening during the insertion process. As the button housing is advanced through the opening, the flexible retaining members flex and then snap into engagement with the panel edges, providing self-locking functionality without requiring manual holding or additional fastening operations. The assembly secures itself during installation.
2Reliability
If the button assembly requires holding from the underside during installation, then secure mounting is achieved, but installation time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible retaining members automatically engage with the panel opening during insertion, providing self-locking functionality. As the button housing is advanced through the opening, the flexible retaining members flex and then snap into engagement with the panel edges, securing the assembly without requiring manual holding or additional fastening operations. This self-service mechanism maintains mounting reliability while dramatically increasing installation speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The button housing is pre-configured with flexible retaining members that are positioned to automatically engage with the panel opening during insertion. The retaining members are designed with predetermined flex characteristics that ensure reliable engagement occurs naturally during the insertion process, eliminating the need for separate securing operations and enabling rapid, reliable installation.
3Reliability
If conventional button assemblies are used requiring additional holding operations, then mounting security is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the button housing and retaining members into a single integrated assembly. The flexible retaining members are attached to the button housing, combining the mounting structure and securing mechanism into one unit. This integration eliminates the need for separate holding operations and additional fastening components, simplifying both the manufacturing process and installation procedure while maintaining secure mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated button housing and retaining members function as a self-securing unit during installation. As the assembly is advanced through the panel opening, the flexible retaining members automatically engage with the panel edges, providing self-locking functionality without requiring additional holding operations or separate securing steps. This self-service mechanism simplifies the manufacturing process by eliminating complex multi-step installation procedures.
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
This solution simplifies and expedites the installation process without additional materials or costs, allowing for reliable and easy assembly in confined spaces, enhancing manufacturing efficiency and seat panel integration.
Implementation Method 1
one or more flexible retaining members attached to a portion of the button housing, in which the one or more flexible retaining members are configured to compress when advanced through the opening in the seat panel and expand therein positioned opposite an inner surface of the seat panel when the assembly is seated
Implementation Method 2
A mechanical force of the ends of the flexible finger against the inner surface of the seat panel may inhibit removal of the button assembly from the seat panel
Implementation Method 3
A frictional force of the middle portion of the flexible reflexed portion against the edge of opening in the seat panel may inhibit removal of the button assembly from the seat panel
Data Source
AI summary
Button assemblies for controlling a seat position and for mounting on a seat panel are provided. The button assemblies may have a button housing having a portion that is configured to position over edges of an opening in the seat panel. One or more flexible retaining members integral to or attached to the button housing are configured to compress through the opening in the seat panel and expand therein positioned opposite an inner surface thereof upon insertion, securing the assembly within the opening.