Vehicle Seat Locking Device with Integrated Ejection Eccentric
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat locking devices require significant installation space and are heavy, lacking a compact and lightweight design that also provides effective support during crashes.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a pawl and clamping eccentric that is spring-loaded, featuring a simple and lightweight design with few components, where the unlocking element pivots to move the catch and clamping eccentrics from locked to unlocked positions, allowing for variable actuation and an integrated ejection function with low locking forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional locking device with separate locking and ejection mechanisms is used, then reliable locking function is achieved, but installation space and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking function and ejection function into a single integrated locking device. The clamping eccentric simultaneously performs locking by clamping the pawl and ejection by interacting with the counter-element, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and reducing overall device weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping eccentric serves multiple functions: it locks the pawl in the locked state, ejects the counter-element when unlocked, and provides structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed and decreases the overall weight of the locking device.
2Reliability
If a conventional locking device with multiple separate components is used, then reliable locking function is achieved, but device complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking mechanism and ejection mechanism into a single integrated structure where the clamping eccentric performs both functions. This reduces the number of separate components and simplifies assembly while maintaining reliable locking function.
3Area of stationary object
If the clamping eccentric is positioned directly over the pawl for compact design, then installation space is reduced, but unlocking actuation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the clamping eccentric laterally adjacent to the pawl rather than directly over it, utilizing lateral space to accommodate the unlocking actuation mechanism. This dimensional arrangement allows the actuating device to effectively move the clamping eccentric while maintaining a compact overall installation footprint.
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 provides a compact, lightweight locking device that supports the pawl during crashes and allows for efficient unlocking with low locking forces, while enabling variable actuation and a space-reducing integrated ejection function.
Implementation Method 1
the clamping eccentric being spring-loaded in the locked state via a clamping surface on the first functional surface
Implementation Method 2
A prestressed ratchet compression spring can be supported at one end on an arm of the clamping eccentric, spring-loading it into its locking position
Implementation Method 3
the unlocking element imparts movement to the catch eccentric and, following this, impinges movement to the clamping eccentric in the direction of the unlocking position
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a locking device for a vehicle seat, especially a motor vehicle seat, comprising a pawl (9) for locking a mating element, which pawl is pivotally supported about a first axis (2'), and a tensioning eccentric (6) that is pivotally supported about a second axis (3'), which is parallel to the first axis (2'), between a locking position and an unlocking position and ensures a locked state of the pawl (9) owing to the interaction with a first functional surface (27) of the pawl (9), the tensioning eccentric (6) acting upon the first functional surface (27) by means of a tensioning surface (19) when spring-loaded and locked, an unlocking element (5) being pivotable about the first axis (2') counter to a spring force from a locking position to an unlocking position by means of an actuation device and the tensioning eccentric (6) being pivotally engaged by the unlocking element (5) from its locking position towards its unlocking position.