Vehicle Seat Adjustment Locking Device with Integrated Brake Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat adjustment and locking systems require numerous parts, leading to increased weight, space, and production costs, as well as higher fuel consumption due to complexity.
Innovation Solution
A compact adjusting and locking device with a brake ring and actuating element, utilizing a rotary element and unlocking mechanism with inclined surfaces for simple operation, allowing for both locking and adjustment with minimal components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a large number of parts are provided to meet different operating conditions and strength requirements, then the reliability and strength are improved, but the device complexity, weight, space requirements, and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking device and adjusting device into a single integrated mechanism. The locking device includes a brake ring, rotary element, and unlocking element that work together with the adjusting device to provide both locking and adjustment functions using minimal parts, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can lock the adjusting device in position, allow adjustment when unlocked, and absorb accident forces. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each function, reducing the overall number of parts required
2Strength
If a large number of parts are provided to meet different operating conditions and strength requirements, then the strength is improved, but the weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the locking and adjusting functions into a single integrated device, the patent eliminates redundant structural elements and fasteners that would otherwise be required to connect separate components. This integration maintains the necessary strength to absorb accident forces while significantly reducing the overall weight of the assembly
3Reliability
If a large number of parts are provided to meet different operating conditions and strength requirements, then the reliability is improved, but the space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device components are arranged in a nested configuration where the rotary element rotates within the brake ring, and the unlocking element moves radially within the confined space of the locking device. This nesting allows the mechanism to maintain reliable locking and adjustment functions while occupying minimal space in the vehicle seat structure
4Strength
If a large number of parts are provided to meet different operating conditions and strength requirements, then the strength is improved, but the production costs and assembly effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated design of the locking and adjusting device reduces the number of individual parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. Fewer components mean reduced production costs, simplified assembly procedures, and less time required for quality control and inspection, while the design maintains the necessary strength through optimized component geometry and material selection
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 solution enables a lightweight, cost-effective, and space-efficient vehicle seat adjustment system that can absorb accident forces while allowing for easy transition between locked and unlocked states, facilitating robust and efficient control.
Implementation Method 1
the locking device has at least one braking element, with the braking element being provided to block rotation between the braking ring and the first rotary element
Implementation Method 2
the unlocking element and the actuating element are provided for interaction by means of an inclined surface
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~12
AI summary
The adjustment- and locking device has a unit of an actuator for executing an adjustment releasable locking unit (22) and an adjustment unit. The locking unit has an unlocking element (36) and an actuating element (37). A movement of the unlocking element is provided relative to a rotational axis (31') in a radially outward manner and a movement of the actuating element is provided relative to the rotation axis in an axial manner during the transition from an operating situation to another operating situation.