Seat Module Cable Stowage and Retention
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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 that temporarily stows end portions of operating cables in a pre-assembled state, using a cushion suspension module with retention features to securely attach and release the cables to mechanical parts and electric devices, eliminating the need for brackets and zip ties, and improving routing repeatability.
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 components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple separate brackets and binder members into a single integrated cable retention structure. This structure combines the functions of multiple individual retention components into one unified element, reducing the total number of parts while maintaining the ability to secure multiple cables in their routed positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated cable retention structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it retains multiple different cables (mechanical control cables and wire harnesses), provides routing guidance, and secures components in various locations. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each cable or location.
2Manufacturing precision
If each control cable and wire harness is independently retained with its predetermined shape, then proper routing is achieved, but the assembly process requires a large number of brackets and binder members
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated cable retention structure is pre-configured with predetermined routing paths and attachment points for multiple cables. This preliminary preparation allows cables to be installed in their correct positions without requiring complex on-site routing adjustments, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining precise routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention structure is designed with distinct segments or zones for different cables, each providing independent retention capability. This segmentation allows each cable to be installed and positioned independently within the integrated structure, maintaining the precision benefits of individual cable routing while achieving the efficiency of consolidated installation.
3Ease of operation
If mechanical control cables are attached to the lower part of the seat through limited space enclosed by seat rails and mechanism components, then the cables reach their destinations, but the working process time increases and more parts are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated cable retention structure is designed to fit within the limited space under the seat, nesting among existing seat rails and mechanism components. This compact design allows the retention structure to be installed in the confined area without requiring additional space, while still providing access points for cable routing to various destinations.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention structure incorporates flexible or adjustable elements that can adapt to the varying spatial constraints and cable routing requirements in the limited under-seat space. This dynamic capability allows the structure to accommodate different cable lengths and routing paths without requiring multiple fixed-position components.
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 cushion suspension module adapted to support a cushion of the seat having a plurality of cushion suspension wires for attaching to the seat and at least one module plates coupled with the cushion suspension wires. An end portion of the operating cable is temporarily stowed on the cushion suspension module in a pre-assembled state where the operating cable is attached to the cushion suspension module, 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 cushion suspension module with the attached operating cables is securely mounted to the seat.