Vehicle Seat Fitting Torque Profile via Non-Linear Shaped Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat fitting systems face challenges in ease of operation due to linear torque characteristics of spring arrangements, which result in high unlocking forces and structural contradictions, limiting ergonomic performance and construction space.
Innovation Solution
The integration of shaped springs with non-linear torque characteristics, either alone or in combination with resetting springs, to modify the overall torque profile during the unlocking operation, allowing for a more ergonomic and efficient unlocking process by adjusting the torque dependency on the angle of rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a linear spring characteristic is used in the fitting system, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the unlocking force increases sharply during the unlocking operation, reducing ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from a linear spring characteristic to a non-linear spring characteristic. The non-linear spring is designed with specific geometric parameters (curvature radius, arm length, thickness) that create a torque profile where the opposing torque remains relatively constant or increases gradually during unlocking, rather than sharply as in linear springs. This parameter optimization resolves the contradiction by maintaining structural reliability while significantly improving ease of operation.
2Reliability
If the minimum closing torque is increased to improve dynamic load absorption and play elimination, then the fitting function is enhanced, but the maximum unlocking force also increases, reducing ergonomics
Solution Approach 1:
The non-linear spring geometry is specifically designed to decouple the minimum closing torque from the maximum unlocking force. By optimizing the spring's curvature radius, arm length, and thickness distribution, the spring produces high torque at the locked position (improving dynamic load absorption and play elimination) while the torque decreases or remains stable during the unlocking motion. This parameter optimization allows the fitting to meet both requirements simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by creating a torque profile that is dynamic rather than static. The non-linear spring generates a torque characteristic that changes during the unlocking operation, providing high torque when needed (locked state for load absorption) and low torque during operation (unlocking phase). This dynamic torque distribution resolves the contradiction between functional requirements and ergonomic operation.
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 approach enhances the ergonomic unlocking experience by managing torque profiles, increasing the minimum unlocking torque without raising maximum torques, thus improving the overall function and user experience of the fitting system.
Implementation Method 1
a spring arrangement which serves to secure the locked state of the fitting system
Implementation Method 2
the torque produced by said shaped spring follows a non-linear characteristic which is added to the at least approximately linear characteristic of the spring arrangement
Data Source
AI summary
A fitting system for a vehicle seat having a fitting (10), which has a first fitting part (11) and a second fitting part (12), which fitting parts can be locked to one another and can be rotated relative to one another about an axis (A). A transmission rod (7) rotates during an unlocking process to unlock the fitting (10) against the torque and follows a characteristic curve (M35) generated by a spring arrangement (35). A hand lever (5) initiates the unlocking process, the actuation of which rotates the transmission rod (7). A shaped spring (61) is active between a first component (63) and a second component (64) which rotate, relative to one another during the unlocking process. The torque generated by the shaped spring follows a non-linear characteristic curve (M61) which, together with the approximately linear characteristic curve (M35) of the spring arrangement (35), produces an overall characteristic curve (Moverall).