Vehicle Seat Linkage With Irreversible Motor and Emergency Release
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seats require complex designs and additional locking mechanisms due to the use of reversible electric motors, which limit torque and complicate configuration changes, especially in emergency situations like crashes.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seat utilizing an irreversible electric motor to drive sector gear rotation, combined with locking mechanisms that transition between locked and unlocked states to allow manual operation in emergencies, simplifying design and reducing production costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If reversible electric motors are used to drive seat configuration changes, then the seat can be adjusted in both directions, but the torque is limited and the design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The seat adjustment system is divided into two independent functions: an irreversible electric motor handles powered adjustment in one direction with high torque, while separate locking mechanisms (first locking means for substructure, second locking means for backrest) handle position fixation. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex reversible motors with integrated braking systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of motor-driven adjustment and position locking by using the irreversible motor's inherent one-way torque advantage paired with independent locking mechanisms. The third locking means combines the front connecting rod and sector gear into a unified powered adjustment assembly, simplifying the overall design while maintaining functionality.
2Power
If irreversible electric motors are used, then higher torque is achieved for efficient configuration changes, but additional locking mechanisms are required to maintain position
Solution Approach 1:
The irreversible electric motor inherently provides self-locking capability due to its one-way torque characteristic, eliminating the need for complex electromagnetic braking systems. The mechanical locking mechanisms use simple pin-and-slot or cam-based designs that automatically engage and disengage, requiring minimal additional complexity while effectively maintaining seat positions.
3Reliability
If complex locking mechanisms are added to reversible motor systems, then position stability is improved, but the design complexity and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanisms use simple, inexpensive mechanical components such as pins, slots, and cams that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. These basic mechanical elements provide reliable position stability without requiring complex electronics or precision machining, significantly reducing production costs while maintaining functional reliability.
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 irreversible electric motor provides higher torque for efficient configuration changes, and the locking mechanisms ensure seat stability and ease of manual operation during emergencies, simplifying design and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
an irreversible electric motor configured for: causing rotation of the sector gear relative to the anchoring means about the fourth transverse axis, when activated
Implementation Method 2
a first locking means able to transition: from a locked state, in which the first locking means prevents rotation of the substructure relative to the anchoring means of the seat about the second transverse axis
Implementation Method 3
a backrest hinged to the seat base frame near its rear edge so as to pivot about a first transverse axis of the seat
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seat comprising: a seat base frame, anchoring means for anchoring to the floor of a vehicle, a backrest pivotably hinged to the seat base frame, a substructure pivotably hinged to the anchoring means and to the backrest, a front connecting rod pivotably hinged to the anchoring means and to the seat base frame, a sector gear pivotably hinged to the anchoring means, an irreversible electric motor configured to cause rotation of the sector gear relative to the anchoring means, a first locking means for locking the rotation of the substructure relative to the anchoring means, a second locking means for locking the rotation of the backrest relative to the substructure, a third locking means for locking the rotation of the front connecting rod relative to the sector gear.