Vehicle Seat Hinge Mechanism With Torque-Interfering Gear Teeth

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hinge mechanisms for vehicle seats require additional parts for increased mechanical strength during accidents, making them more complex and costly to produce.

Innovation Solution

A hinge mechanism with a second set of gear teeth on the second frame that interferes with the first frame when high torque is applied, increasing resistive torque without the need for additional parts, using a cylindrical bearing and arc-shaped bearing surfaces to prevent interference at lower torque levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If additional parts are installed in the first frame to increase mechanical strength during accidents, then the resistive torque is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemechanical strengthVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the function of increasing resistive torque with the existing second frame structure by adding a second set of gear teeth directly to it. This eliminates the need for separate additional parts in the first frame, as the same structural element (second frame) serves dual purposes: normal operation support and accident-resistant torque enhancement through its second gear teeth set that engages with the first frame under high torque conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a dynamic engagement mechanism where the second set of gear teeth on the second frame only interferes with the first frame when torque exceeds a predetermined threshold during accidents. During normal operation, the bearing surfaces prevent interference, allowing free rotation. This dynamic behavior enables the structure to adapt its mechanical properties based on operational conditions without requiring additional active control parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If additional parts are installed in the first frame to increase mechanical strength during accidents, then the resistive torque is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemechanical strengthVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the accident protection function with the existing second frame structure by integrating the second set of gear teeth directly into it. This eliminates the need for separate additional parts that would need to be manufactured and assembled, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while achieving the same strength enhancement goal.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Strength

If the second set of gear teeth interferes with the first frame during accidents, then the resistive torque is increased, but the friction and wear increase during normal operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresistive torqueVSAvoidfriction and wear

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces bearing surfaces as intermediary elements between the second set of gear teeth and the first frame. These bearing surfaces rest slidably on the cylindrical bearing during normal operation, preventing direct interference between the gear teeth while still allowing the second set to engage when high torque is applied during accidents. This intermediary mechanism eliminates unnecessary friction and wear during normal operation while preserving the accident protection function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enhances mechanical strength during accidents by increasing resistive torque without additional parts, simplifying production and reducing costs while maintaining performance.

Implementation Method 1

said bearing surfaces resting slidably on the cylindrical bearing of the first frame

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSliding contact: Friction

Implementation Method 2

at least one first set of gear teeth integral with the second frame, and forming at least one arc of a circle centered on the axis of rotation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGear meshing: Gear

Data Source

PatentUS7967385B2Hinge mechanism and vehicle seat comprising such a mechanism

Publication Date: 2011.06.28 FAURECIA SIEGES D AUTOMOBILE SA

AI summary

Hinge mechanism comprising first and second frames connected together by an adjustment device comprising a first set of gear teeth integral with the first frame and a first mobile toothed component engaging with the first set of gear teeth. The second frame comprises a second set of gear teeth, which interferes with the first frame when the torque applied between the first and second frames exceeds a predetermined threshold, in order to immobilize the frames rotatably in relation to each other.