Vehicle Seat Coupling Structure for Load Regulation and Vibration Damping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing coupling structure in vehicle seats, which uses elastic elements to regulate load and inhibit vibration, faces a trade-off where the performance of load regulation and vibration reduction are mutually exclusive, leading to insufficient load regulation during collision scenarios and potential seat lifting.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seat coupling structure that separates the functions of load regulation and vibration reduction by using a first elastic element for vibration inhibition and a second elastic element with a higher spring constant for load regulation, along with an optional third elastic element for improved radial vibration reduction, integrated into a single elastic member to reduce component count and foreign matter entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single elastic element is used to couple members, then the structure is simple, but the performance of load regulation and vibration reduction cannot be simultaneously achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling structure is segmented into two distinct elastic elements: a first elastic element (cylindrical rubber element) for vibration reduction and a second elastic element (leaf spring) for load regulation. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between performance and complexity by dividing the system into specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling structure achieves multi-functionality by combining two elastic elements that together provide both vibration reduction and load regulation capabilities. The first elastic element handles high-frequency vibrations while the second elastic element manages collision loads, creating a universal coupling solution that addresses multiple performance requirements simultaneously.
2Reliability
If the first elastic element is designed for vibration reduction, then vibration is inhibited, but load regulation performance becomes insufficient during collisions
Solution Approach 1:
The functions are segmented between two elastic elements with different characteristics. The first elastic element (cylindrical rubber) is optimized for vibration damping with its material properties and geometry, while the second elastic element (leaf spring) is optimized for load bearing during collisions. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by assigning each function to the most suitable component.
Solution Approach 2:
Each elastic element is designed with local quality optimized for its specific function. The first elastic element uses rubber material with specific damping properties for vibration reduction, while the second elastic element uses a leaf spring design with appropriate stiffness for load regulation. This local optimization allows each component to excel at its designated function without compromising the other.
3Reliability
If elastic elements are arranged to provide both vibration reduction and load regulation, then both performances are achieved, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The two elastic elements are merged into a single coupling structure assembly that functions as an integrated unit. The first elastic element and second elastic element are positioned and configured to work together in the coupling structure, reducing the need for additional separate components while achieving both vibration reduction and load regulation functions simultaneously.
4Ease of manufacture
If gaps exist between elastic elements, then assembly is easier, but foreign matters can enter the coupling structure
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic elements, particularly the cylindrical first elastic element and the leaf spring second elastic element, act as flexible sealing components that prevent foreign matter from entering the coupling structure. These elastic elements fill and seal the gaps between components, maintaining ease of assembly while blocking contamination paths through their flexible, conforming nature.
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 proposed solution allows for effective load regulation and vibration reduction, enhancing the overall performance of the coupling structure while maintaining the integrity of the seat during collisions and reducing noise from vibrations.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic element arranged between the first member and the second member in the axial direction of the bolt, the first elastic element being in contact with the first member and the second member
Implementation Method 2
a second elastic element arranged between the first member and the auxiliary member in the axial direction of the bolt, the second elastic element being in contact with the first member and the auxiliary member
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seat capable of exhibiting both performances of regulating an input of a load and reducing vibration is provided. One aspect of the present disclosure is a vehicle seat including a coupling structure coupling a first member and a second member. The coupling structure includes a bolt inserted through the first member and the second member, an auxiliary member arranged so as to hold the first member between the auxiliary member and the second member in an axial direction of the bolt, a first elastic element arranged between the first member and the second member in the axial direction, the first elastic element being in contact with the first member and the second member, and a second elastic element arranged between the first member and the auxiliary member in the axial direction, the second elastic element being in contact with the first member and the auxiliary member.