Vehicle Seat Easy-Entry Memory Device and Locking Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat easy-entry systems require manual intervention to unlock and relock the backrest and longitudinal adjuster, complicating the transition between use and easy-entry positions, and lack a seamless integration of easy-entry comfort and hold-open functions.
Innovation Solution
A device for a vehicle seat with a memory device that detects displacement of the first seat rail relative to the second seat rail, enabling automatic unlocking and locking of the longitudinal adjuster, and an additional multifunction part that provides easy-entry convenience and hold-open functions through a Bowden cable or blocking lever mechanism, allowing for automatic positioning and locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual intervention is used to unlock and relock the backrest and longitudinal adjuster, then the system structure remains simple, but the operation complexity increases and user convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device automatically detects when the seat reaches the programmed position and triggers the locking mechanism without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by using the seat's own movement to activate the memory function, eliminating the need for users to manually operate handles or levers during the easy-entry sequence
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated memory device that uses mechanical sensors to detect seat position and automatically actuates the locking mechanism. The memory device substitutes for manual human operation, using automated detection and actuation mechanisms rather than requiring users to physically manipulate controls
2Reliability
If the backrest is locked in folded forward position during easy-entry, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the backrest locking function with the existing easy-entry mechanism by integrating a locking pawl that engages with the backrest support. This merging of functions allows the backrest to be automatically locked in the folded position using the same actuation system that controls the easy-entry movement, rather than adding a completely separate locking system
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pawl acts as an intermediary element between the backrest support and the locking mechanism. It mediates the locking action by engaging with the backrest support structure, providing a simple mechanical interface that secures the backrest without requiring complex actuation systems
3Measurement precision
If the longitudinal adjuster locks prematurely when backrest is raised before memory position, then positioning accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to premature locking
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device is programmed with a predetermined position that serves as a trigger point. Before the seat reaches this position, the locking mechanism remains disengaged, allowing free movement. When the predetermined position is reached, the memory device automatically activates the locking mechanism, ensuring locking occurs at the correct moment rather than prematurely
Solution Approach 2:
The memory device provides feedback by detecting the seat's longitudinal position and comparing it to the programmed memory position. This feedback mechanism controls the locking mechanism's activation, ensuring it only engages when the seat has reached the correct position, thereby preventing premature locking while maintaining positioning accuracy
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5a~5b
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for a vehicle seat (1), which has a seat part and a backrest (3) and the seat part of which is connected to a first seat rail (2) of a longitudinal adjuster. The first seat rail (2) of the longitudinal adjuster is guided in a second seat rail (4) of the longitudinal adjuster fastened to the structure, in such a way that the first seat rail can be displaced in the longitudinal direction (x). The vehicle seat (1) can be transferred from the usage position into an easy-entry position for simplified access to the rear seats when a locking mechanism of the longitudinal adjuster of the vehicle seat (1) is released by folding the backrest (3) forward. Furthermore, a memory device (22) is provided, which senses a displacement of the first seat rail (2) in relation to the second seat rail (4). The device also has a multi-function part (222), which is connected to the memory device (22) and which is designed to provide an easy-entry comfort function or an easy-entry hold-open function by means of an additional component (232, 238). The invention further relates to a vehicle seat having a device according to the invention.