Vehicle Seat Actuation Handle for Two-Direction Unlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat actuation devices are not ergonomically optimized for opposed pivoting operations, as the operating direction of the actuation handle is not aligned with the movement direction of the seat in both pivoting directions, leading to suboptimal ergonomics.
Innovation Solution
The actuation device features an actuation handle that can be actuated in two directions, with a connecting mechanism that ensures the operating direction aligns with the movement direction of the vehicle seat in both pivoting directions, using a spring-loaded lever and Bowden cables for efficient coupling to the locking mechanism, and includes a rotatable intersecting point for modular design and ergonomic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the actuation handle is designed with a single operating direction, then the structure is simple, but the ergonomics is suboptimal for opposed pivoting operations
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation handle is designed to be actuable in two different directions dynamically, allowing the operating direction to adapt to the movement direction of the vehicle seat during opposed pivoting operations. This dynamic capability enables ergonomic operation in both forward and reverse directions without requiring two separate handles.
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuation handle serves multiple functions by being actuable in two different directions. It can unlock the locking mechanism whether the vehicle seat is pivoting forward into entry position or backward into use position, eliminating the need for direction-specific handles and simplifying the overall structure while maintaining ergonomic operation.
2Ease of operation
If the actuation handle operating direction is fixed, then the manufacturing is simple, but the alignment with seat movement direction is not optimal in both pivoting directions
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation device incorporates a dynamic operating mechanism where the handle can be actuated in two different directions. This allows the operating direction to align with the seat movement direction whether pivoting forward or backward, improving ergonomics without significantly complicating the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
A connecting mechanism serves as an intermediary between the actuation handle and the locking mechanism. This mediator translates the actuation force from either direction into the appropriate unlocking action, enabling ergonomic operation in both pivoting directions while maintaining a relatively simple manufacturing process.
3Ease of operation
If a two-directional actuation handle is implemented, then ergonomics is optimized for opposed pivoting, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism employs dynamic elements that allow the handle to be actuated in two different directions. The connecting mechanism and locking mechanism are designed to respond appropriately regardless of the actuation direction, optimizing ergonomics while controlling the increase in device complexity through efficient mechanical design.
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 design provides an ergonomically optimized actuation device that allows for seamless and ergonomic operation of vehicle seats with opposed pivoting directions, enhancing usability and reducing the number of components and weight.
Implementation Method 1
In an unactuated state, the lever can be held in a central position by an elastic means such that, from said central position and counter to a force of the stressing elastic element, the lever is selectively actuable in one of the two directions.
Data Source
AI summary
An actuation device (100), for a vehicle seat, has at least one locking mechanism (23). The actuation device (100) has an actuation handle (152), which is mounted on a housing (110), for unlocking the at least one locking mechanism (23). A connection device (200) couples the actuation device (100) to the at least one locking mechanism (23). The actuation handle (152) can be actuated in two different directions and the at least one locking mechanism (23) can be unlocked by actuating the actuation handle (152) in one direction and by actuating the actuation handle (152) in the other direction. As a result, an operating direction of the actuation handle (152) that is oriented in the movement direction of the vehicle seat is available for each movement direction of the vehicle seat. A vehicle seat (1) is also provided having at least one locking mechanism (23) and an actuation device (100).