Vehicle Seat Docking Apparatus for Interchangeable Accessories

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle seat anchor systems provide limited utility when not used for child seats, as they are primarily designed for a specific standard and do not offer versatile attachment options for other accessories.

Innovation Solution

A docking apparatus mountable to a vehicle seat with adjustable support members and a mounting system that allows for interchangeable modules, such as storage compartments or cup holders, using existing child seat anchors for secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If standard child seat anchors are used, then child seat mounting is secure and reliable, but versatility for other accessories is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessory attachment versatilityVSAvoidmounting system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The docking apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it securely mounts child seats using standard anchors while also providing attachment capability for various other accessories through interchangeable modules. The universal base unit with adjustable support members can accommodate different module types, making the system multi-functional rather than single-purpose.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system is divided into a permanent base docking apparatus and interchangeable removable modules. This segmentation allows the base unit to remain fixed and secure while only the accessory modules need to be changed for different functions, simplifying the overall system while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable support members are added, then accommodation of various module sizes is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule size accommodationVSAvoidsupport member adjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support members are designed to be adjustable and repositionable along the docking apparatus structure. This dynamic capability allows the support members to adapt to different module sizes and shapes, providing flexibility without requiring multiple fixed support structures for each possible module type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustment mechanism is designed to be easily operable by the user without requiring complex tools or procedures. The support members can be independently positioned and secured by the user through simple manual adjustment, making the system self-configurable for different module requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10821905B2Apparatus for attaching an accessory to a seat and methods of use thereof
Publication Date: 2020.11.03 HONDA MOTOR CO LTD
  • US10821905B2 patent drawing
  • US10821905B2 patent drawing
  • US10821905B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method, apparatus, and system for mounting interchangeably mounting a module to a vehicle seat. The module may include a mounting portion. The docking apparatus may include a mounting receiving portion selectively engageable with the mounting portion of the module. The docking apparatus may further include one or more seat anchor fastening members that are selectively engageable with one or more child seat anchors of the vehicle seat. The docking apparatus may further include a support member operatively connected to an adjustment portion. The support member abut a portion of the vehicle seat, and the adjustment portion may be capable of altering the position of the docking apparatus with relation to the vehicle seat.