Vehicle Seat Kinematics for Zero-Gravity Comfort and Hip-Point Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seat assemblies in vehicles lack the ability to efficiently adjust to different positions, particularly for comfort and safety, as they often compromise on ergonomics and safety standards when transitioning between design and zero-gravity positions.
Innovation Solution
A modular seat assembly with a track system and adjustable components, including a seat base, seatback, and headrest, that can be actuated by motors to adjust to multiple positions, maintaining the occupant's hip point relative to safety devices while enhancing comfort and usability across various occupant sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the seat is adjusted to zero-gravity position, then occupant comfort is improved, but the hip point position relative to safety devices changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the seat to transition between different positions (design position and zero-gravity position) while maintaining the hip point's vertical position relative to safety devices. The seatback and seat bottom are configured to move in a coordinated manner, enabling the occupant to achieve a reclined zero-gravity position without compromising the vertical alignment with safety devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the seat structure is made complex to accommodate multiple adjustment positions, then adaptability to different occupant sizes is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the seat into distinct adjustable components including the seatback, seat bottom, and headrest, each capable of independent adjustment. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for specific functions while working together to accommodate various occupant sizes and preferences, achieving versatility without requiring an overly complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat assembly is designed with multi-functional adjustment capabilities where the coordinated movement of the seatback and seat bottom serves multiple purposes: it adjusts for different occupant sizes, enables both design and zero-gravity positions, and maintains safety device alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A seat assembly comprises a seat adjuster; and a seat including: a seat base connectable with a track assembly; a seat bottom pivotably connected to the seat base at a first pivot axis; a seatback pivotably connected to the seat base at the first pivot axis; and an adjustment member pivotably connected to the seat base at a second pivot axis and pivotably connected to the seat bottom at a member-bottom pivot axis. The seat adjuster is connected to the seat to adjust the seatback about the first pivot axis, the seat bottom about the first pivot axis, and the adjustment member about the second pivot axis to adjust the seat to a first seat position and to a second seat position.