Vehicle Seat Locking Mechanism Asymmetric Load Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat locking devices are either too heavy or costly due to the requirement for strong locking mechanisms on both sides, which increases weight and cost without ensuring safety against excessive loads.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seat design featuring a seat structure with a seat cushion frame, seat slide mechanism, upper risers, and dual locking mechanisms that engage only when an excessive load is applied, utilizing a hinge mechanism with a nylon bush that deforms to lock the seat in place, reducing weight and cost while maintaining safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If heavy-duty locking devices are provided on both right and left sides, then the locking strength is improved, but the weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different locking mechanisms to different sides based on local requirements. The right side (driver side) uses a standard locking device that remains engaged during normal operation, while the left side uses a load-responsive locking device that only engages under excessive load. This local differentiation optimizes both safety and weight efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The left-side locking device automatically engages when excessive load is detected through the hinge mechanism's load-responsive action, without requiring external control systems. The mechanical design itself provides the sensing and actuation functions, eliminating the need for additional sensors, actuators, or control electronics.
2Strength
If heavy-duty locking devices are provided on both right and left sides, then the locking strength is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different locking mechanisms to different sides based on local requirements. The right side (driver side) uses a standard locking device that remains engaged during normal operation, while the left side uses a load-responsive locking device that only engages under excessive load. This local differentiation optimizes both safety and weight efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The left-side locking device automatically engages when excessive load is detected through the hinge mechanism's load-responsive action, without requiring external control systems. The mechanical design itself provides the sensing and actuation functions, eliminating the need for additional sensors, actuators, or control electronics.
3Strength
If a single heavy-duty locking device is provided on one side, then the locking strength is improved, but the weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the locking function into two separate mechanisms: a standard locking device on the right side for normal operation and a load-responsive locking device on the left side for excessive load conditions. This segmentation allows each mechanism to be optimized for its specific function, avoiding the need for a single oversized locking device that would be required to handle both normal and excessive load conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the left-side locking device based on load conditions. The hinge mechanism detects excessive load and triggers the locking device to engage only when needed, rather than remaining constantly engaged. This parameter-based control allows the use of a lighter locking mechanism that activates only under specific conditions.
4Reliability
If locking devices are engaged at all times, then the safety is improved, but the weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic locking behavior where the left-side locking device engages only when excessive load is detected and disengages when normal conditions return. This dynamic response is achieved through the load-responsive hinge mechanism that automatically controls the locking device's engagement state based on real-time load conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the left-side locking device based on load conditions. The hinge mechanism detects excessive load and triggers the locking device to engage only when needed, rather than remaining constantly engaged. This parameter-based control allows the use of a lighter locking mechanism that activates only under specific conditions.
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 design provides a lightweight and cost-effective locking system that securely holds the seat in place during normal conditions and locks securely under excessive loads, enhancing safety without increasing weight or cost.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a hinge mechanism with a nylon bush that deforms to lock the seat in place
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seat includes: (a) a seat structure having a seat cushion frame including a first seat side member and a second seat side member, and a seat back frame; (b) a seat slide mechanism that is capable of moving the seat structure; (c) a first upper riser that is fixed to the seat slide mechanism and supports the first seat side member; (d) a second upper riser that is fixed to the seat slide mechanism and supports the second seat side member; (e) a first locking mechanism that locks and unlocks the first seat side member to and from the seat slide mechanism; and (f) a second locking mechanism that locks the second seat side member to the seat slide mechanism when an excessive load is input.