One-Piece Seat Control Element With Integrated Detent Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control elements for vehicle seats with Bowden cable systems are complex to manufacture and prone to material fatigue due to frequent use, making them unreliable for seat adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A control element comprising a first element integrated with a spring element and a second element that can be locked, where both elements are formed as a single unit, preferably made of plastic using injection molding, with a Bowden cable connection allowing for simple and durable seat adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a multi-component control element is used to operate the Bowden cable, then the control element can provide adequate functionality and reliability, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control element components into a single integrated unit. The control element comprises a body with an integrated Bowden cable connection, detent mechanism, and actuation features all formed as one piece, eliminating the need for separate components that would otherwise be assembled together. This merging reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining the reliability of the control function.
2Ease of operation
If traditional control elements are used, then adequate control functionality is achieved, but material fatigue occurs due to frequent use rendering them unusable
Solution Approach 1:
The control element is designed as a monolithic integrated structure where the body, Bowden cable connection point, detent mechanism, and actuation features are all formed as one piece. This eliminates weak points at component interfaces and joints that would be susceptible to material fatigue from repeated use, significantly improving durability while maintaining ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used in the control element, then functional requirements can be met, but manufacturing cost and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control element is manufactured as a single integrated component using injection molding or similar forming processes. The design integrates the body, Bowden cable connection, detent mechanism, and actuation features into one moldable structure, allowing all functional requirements to be met through a single manufacturing operation rather than multiple assembly steps, thereby reducing production time and cost.
4Reliability
If the control element has multiple components, then adequate locking and actuation functions are provided, but the number of parts increases making assembly complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated directly into the control element body as a built-in feature rather than a separate component. The detent and locking surfaces are formed as part of the monolithic structure, providing reliable locking functionality while eliminating the need for separate locking components and their associated assembly steps.
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 cost-effective and durable control element for vehicle seats that simplifies manufacturing and reduces material fatigue, ensuring stable and easy seat parameter adjustments with enhanced haptic and acoustic feedback.
Implementation Method 1
the operating element comprises a spring element on which a first detent element is provided, wherein the spring force of the spring element presses the first detent element against a second detent element, causing the first detent element and the second detent element to lock
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4a~6b
AI summary
The invention relates to a control element, in particular for a vehicle seat, comprising a second element which is movably arranged relative to a first element, wherein the second element is connected to a Bowden cable and can be locked relative to the first element, wherein the control element comprises a spring element on which a first detent element is provided, wherein the spring force of the spring element presses the first detent element against a second detent element, causing the first detent element and the second detent element to lock, wherein the first element and the spring element are formed in one piece and the second detent element is arranged on the second element or the second element and the spring element are formed in one piece and the second detent element is arranged on the first element.