Vehicle Seat Latch Noise Reduction via Double Torsion Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seat latch structures for vehicles suffer from noise generation and reduced operating force due to tolerance gaps between the claw and pawl, which affect the smooth operation and security of the latch.
Innovation Solution
A seat latch structure featuring a base bracket with insertion holes, a claw with a through-hole and locking groove, a pawl with a through-hole, and a double torsion spring connecting the rotating shafts of the claw and pawl, which minimizes noise and enhances operating force by absorbing tolerance gaps with elastic force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a base plate, latch, and pawl are used to fasten the seat, then the seat can be securely fastened to the vehicle body, but tolerance gaps between the claw and pawl cause noise generation and deterioration of operating force
Solution Approach 1:
A rubber buffer is introduced as an intermediary element between the claw and pawl. This buffer absorbs the tolerance gaps through its elastic properties, preventing direct contact between the metal components that would otherwise generate noise. The buffer maintains the functional relationship between claw and pawl while eliminating the harmful noise effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The rubber buffer is pre-installed in the engagement path between the claw and pawl to cushion against tolerance gaps before they cause noise. This proactive cushioning prevents the harmful effect of noise generation while maintaining the secure fastening function.
2Reliability
If a base plate, latch, and pawl are used to fasten the seat, then the seat can be securely fastened to the vehicle body, but tolerance gaps between the claw and pawl cause deterioration of operating force
Solution Approach 1:
The rubber buffer acts as a mediator that transmits force while compensating for tolerance gaps. Its elastic properties allow it to deform under load, maintaining continuous contact between the claw and pawl, thereby preserving the full operating force without the deterioration caused by gaps.
Solution Approach 2:
The introduction of the rubber buffer changes the mechanical parameters of the system by adding elastic compliance. This allows the system to accommodate tolerance variations while maintaining the necessary force transmission, effectively resolving the force deterioration issue.
3Ease of manufacture
If tolerance occurs between the claw and pawl mounted on the base bracket, then assembly is easier, but gaps occur between them causing noise and reduced operating force
Solution Approach 1:
The rubber buffer serves as a mediator that allows for easier assembly by accommodating tolerance variations without requiring tight precision. It absorbs the gaps that would otherwise cause noise, enabling manufacturers to use standard tolerances while still achieving quiet 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
The double torsion spring reduces noise and increases the operating force, ensuring smoother and more secure operation of the seat latch, improving its performance and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a double torsion spring connecting the first through-hole and the second through-hole into which the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft are inserted, respectively
Data Source
AI summary
A seat latch structure is provided, which includes a base bracket mounted on a seat for a vehicle and having a first insertion hole and a second insertion hole formed thereon and an opening which is formed on one side thereof and into which a striker fixed to a vehicle body is inserted, a claw having a first through-hole formed thereon to correspond to the first insertion hole and a locking groove formed on one side thereof, a pawl provided on one side of the claw and having a second through-hole formed thereon to correspond to the second insertion hole, a first rotating shaft and a second rotating shaft inserted into the first through-hole of the claw and the second through-hole of the pawl, respectively, and a double torsion spring connecting the first through-hole and the second through-hole into which the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft are inserted, respectively. According to the seat latch structure, the noise generated during the operation of the seat latch is reduced and the operating force is increased to improve the merchantability.