Vehicle Seat Control Fixing Structure for Compact Anti-Rotation Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat control systems face challenges in fixing the control device to the flange, particularly in terms of production ease, robustness, and compactness.
Innovation Solution
The fixing head of the control device includes a shoulder and rim configuration, with a rim formed by disjointed portions and a conical portion, allowing for secure translation and rotation prevention without the need for tools, and utilizing a nut for deformation resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a traditional fixing element is used to attach the control device to the flange, then the control device can be secured, but the production process becomes more complex and requires additional tools to prevent rotation during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing element is segmented into distinct functional portions: a shoulder portion for preventing rotation, a rim portion for securing to the flange, and a rod portion for insertion. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing element is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The shoulder automatically prevents rotation during insertion, and the rim automatically secures to the flange opening, eliminating the need for additional tools or operators to prevent rotation during assembly.
2Ease of operation
If the fixing head is positioned farther from the control device, then there is more space for tool access, but the overall space requirement of the control system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing element utilizes the radial dimension (extending from the control shaft outward) rather than requiring additional axial or lateral space. The shoulder and rim portions extend radially from the rod, allowing tool access in the radial direction while maintaining compact axial dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing element is nested around the control shaft, with the rod portion inserting through the control shaft opening, the shoulder portion providing radial extension for tool access, and the rim portion securing to the flange. This nested configuration minimizes overall space requirements while maintaining operational accessibility.
3Ease of manufacture
If a continuous rim is used in the fixing head, then the structure is simpler to manufacture, but the resistance to deformation under mechanical stress is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rim is segmented into multiple disjointed rim portions rather than a continuous structure. This segmentation increases the rim's resistance to deformation under mechanical stress while maintaining manufacturability through standard stamping processes. The gaps between rim portions allow for stress distribution and prevent continuous crack propagation.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing head is formed as a composite structure with the rim portions strategically positioned to provide enhanced mechanical strength. The discontinuous rim configuration creates a composite-like structure that combines the simplicity of stamping with the deformation resistance of a reinforced design.
4Reliability
If dimensional tolerances are very small, then the clearances between support plate and flange are minimized, but the manufacturing cost and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conical portion of the fixing element automatically compensates for dimensional variations during assembly. As the fixing element is inserted and tightened, the conical geometry self-adjusts to accommodate tolerance variations in the support plate and flange, maintaining reliable contact without requiring tight manufacturing tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The conical portion changes the geometric parameters of the fixing element, providing a tapered surface that can accommodate a range of dimensional variations. This parameter change allows the system to maintain reliable clearance control while accepting broader manufacturing tolerances, reducing both cost and difficulty.
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 configuration enhances production efficiency, improves robustness, reduces space requirements, and minimizes unexpected movements due to vibrations, ensuring secure and compact fixation.
Implementation Method 1
the holding hole is deformed by contact with the conical portion
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4
Figure 5
AI summary
Control system (1) for a motor vehicle seat (100) comprising a control device (10) comprising a control shaft (12) and a support plate (20) comprising at least one fixing hole (22), the control shaft (12) is configured to rotate about a control axis (15) relative to the support plate (20), at least one fixing element (50), the fixing element (50) comprises a fixing head (52), an intermediate portion (54) and a rod portion (58), the fixing head (52) comprises a rim (53), the intermediate portion (54) has a non-circular section and the fixing hole (22) has a shape complementary to the intermediate portion (54), a flange (30) comprising a holding hole (32), the rod portion (58) extending through the holding hole (32), and a locking element (40) cooperating with the rod portion (58).