Vehicle Seat Module Support With Integrated Air Ducts and Accumulator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing module support arrangements in vehicle seats require numerous components for attaching functional components and hoses, leading to vibration issues and increased costs due to the need for external pressure accumulators.
Innovation Solution
Integrate air ducts and pressure accumulators into the module support, eliminating the need for separate hoses and reducing assembly components by using integrated air ducts and pressure accumulators within the carrier material, which stabilize air flow and reduce vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If functional components and hoses are attached individually to the module support, then the system can be assembled with standard components, but the number of components increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates air ducts directly into the module support structure, combining what were previously separate components (module support + air ducts + pressure accumulators) into a single integrated unit. This reduces the total number of components and simplifies assembly while maintaining the necessary functional adaptability through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The module support is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, integrates air duct routing, incorporates pressure accumulators, and offers mounting points for functional components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
2Reliability
If an external pressure accumulator is installed in the pneumatic system, then air flow stabilization is achieved, but additional components and assembly time are required
Solution Approach 1:
Pressure accumulators are integrated directly into the module support structure rather than being installed as separate external components. This merging of functions eliminates the need for additional assembly steps while maintaining air flow stabilization, thereby reducing assembly time without compromising reliability.
3Power
If pneumatic pump operates at high frequency for massage system, then massage effectiveness is improved, but vibrations increase and interfere with occupant comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated pressure accumulators act as intermediaries between the pneumatic pump and the massage system. They absorb pressure fluctuations and vibrations generated by the pump, filtering out harmful vibrations before they reach the massage bladders and ultimately the occupant, while still allowing effective massage operation.
4Device complexity
If complete piping system is integrated in the module support, then component number is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The air ducts and pressure accumulators are integrated into the module support as a unified structure, reducing the number of separate components. This integration is achieved through manufacturing processes that combine these elements into a single manufacturable unit, simplifying the overall system while managing manufacturing complexity through standardized production methods.
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
Reduces the number of components, simplifies assembly, and minimizes vibrations by integrating air ducts and pressure accumulators, enhancing user comfort and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
at least one pressure accumulator that is in fluidic communication with at least one of the air ducts or air duct sections is integrated on or in the module support and/or on or in the further component
Data Source
AI summary
A module support arrangement for attachment to the seat structure of a motor vehicle seat and for fixing pneumatic components or non-pneumatic components has a module support with a front side and a rear side opposite the front side. Optionally, the module support arrangement has at least one further component, wherein air ducts and/or air duct sections are integrated in the module support and/or in the at least one further component. At least one pressure accumulator that is in fluidic communication with at least one of the air ducts or air duct sections is integrated on or in the module support and/or on or in the further component.