Seat Module Cable Retention Plate for Confined Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automotive seat assemblies with mechanical control cables and wire harnesses require numerous brackets and binder members for retention, leading to a complex and time-consuming assembly process, with potential for damage and increased manufacturing steps, weight, and cost.
Innovation Solution
A seat module with a pre-assembled module plate that temporarily stows end portions of operating cables, allowing for secure mounting and easy connection to mechanical and electrical devices, eliminating the need for brackets and zip ties, and improving repeatability and assembly efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical control cables and wire harnesses are individually fastened to brackets using binder members, then the cables are retained in their routed positions, but the assembly process becomes long and awkward with greater variability and more manufacturing steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple binder members and brackets into a single integrated cable retention system. The cable retention system includes a bracket with multiple retention positions and binder members that are pre-assembled together, allowing multiple cables to be secured simultaneously in one operation rather than individually fastening each cable to separate brackets.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable retention system is pre-assembled in a pre-assembled state where the bracket and binder members are configured beforehand. This preliminary assembly allows the entire retention system to be installed as one unit during seat assembly, rather than attaching each binder member separately during the final assembly process.
2Manufacturing precision
If each control cable and wire harness is independently retained with its predetermined shape, then proper routing is achieved, but a large number of brackets and binder members are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple separate retention components into a single integrated cable retention system. Instead of using individual brackets and binder members for each cable, the system uses one bracket with multiple retention positions and associated binder members that work together as a unified assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket in the cable retention system serves multiple functions simultaneously - it provides structural support and contains multiple retention positions that can accommodate different cables and wire harnesses. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate components for each cable routing requirement.
3Ease of operation
If control cables are attached to the lower portion and upper portion of the seat through limited space, then connection to mechanical parts is achieved, but the working process time increases and parts may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The cable retention system is pre-configured with the bracket and binder members assembled beforehand in an open state. This preliminary preparation allows the system to be quickly positioned and installed in the limited space of the seat assembly without requiring time-consuming manual manipulation of individual cables through tight spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable retention system is designed as a modular assembly that can be installed in sections. The bracket and binder members are configured to work together as a coordinated unit that can be maneuvered through limited spaces and then locked into position, reducing the time and risk associated with attaching cables in confined areas.
Data Source
AI summary
A seat module adapted to be attached to a seat having mechanical parts and electric devices for seat operation in a motor vehicle includes at least one operating cable for activating at least one device, and a module plate formed with a mounting feature for attaching to the seat and a retention feature for attaching the at least one operating cable. An end portion of the operating cable is temporarily stowed on the module plate in a pre-assembled state where the operating cable is attached to the module plate, and the end portion of the operating cable is connected to the electric devices and/or mechanical parts of the seat in an assembled state where the module plate with the retained operating cables is securely mounted to the seat.