Vehicle Seat Non-Linear Coupling Reduces Wear
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seat adjustment devices with linear coupling between backrest inclination and longitudinal position mechanisms suffer from vibrations-induced noise and increased wear due to unnecessary actuation of the longitudinal seat position fixing mechanism, leading to stress and reduced lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A non-linear coupling mechanism using a modular design with a curved guide surface and cylindrical projection to interact between the backrest inclination and longitudinal position actuating means, ensuring minimal unnecessary actuation and reduced wear, allowing for compact, easy-to-handle, and cost-effective production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a linear coupling is provided between the backrest inclination adjustment mechanism and the seat longitudinal position fixing mechanism, then the coupling is simple and continuous over the entire adjustment path, but vibrations result in disturbing noises and permanent actuation of the longitudinal seat position fixing mechanism, increasing stress and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a curved guide surface instead of a linear coupling path. The guide surface has a specific curvature profile that allows the actuating means to follow a non-linear path, enabling the coupling to be disengaged at extreme backrest positions while maintaining smooth operation throughout the adjustment range, thereby reducing vibrations and unnecessary actuation of the longitudinal position fixing mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is designed to dynamically adapt its engagement state based on the backrest inclination angle. At intermediate angles, the coupling remains engaged for smooth operation, while at extreme positions, the coupling automatically disengages to prevent unnecessary actuation. This dynamic behavior reduces stress and wear on the longitudinal seat position fixing device
2Reliability
If a non-linear coupling is implemented to reduce wear and unnecessary actuation, then stress and wear on the longitudinal seat position fixing mechanism are reduced, but the coupling means may become more complex and require more installation space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the coupling function with the existing actuating means components. The first and second actuating means are integrated into a unified structure where the curved guide surface is formed as part of the coupling assembly, eliminating the need for separate complex coupling mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while achieving non-linear coupling
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling means is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides smooth linear coupling during intermediate backrest positions, enables automatic disengagement at extreme positions, and reduces vibrations. This multi-functionality is achieved through a relatively simple curved guide surface geometry, avoiding the need for multiple separate components
3Volume of stationary object
If the coupling is designed to be compact and modular, then installation space is reduced and manufacturing becomes simpler, but the coupling may not provide sufficient control over the actuation path to prevent unnecessary actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The curved guide surface is designed with optimized curvature radii that achieve the desired non-linear coupling behavior within a compact space. By carefully selecting the curvature parameters, the patent ensures that the actuating means follows the correct path to disengage at extreme positions while maintaining a compact overall dimensions suitable for vehicle seat installation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes geometric parameters of the curved guide surface (such as curvature radius, arc length, and position) to achieve the desired actuation control. By adjusting these parameters, the coupling provides sufficient control over the actuation path to prevent unnecessary actuation while maintaining a compact design that fits within available installation space
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a seat adjusting device, in particular for a vehicle seat. The seat adjusting device has a coupling means for coupling a backrest inclination adjusting device to a seat longitudinal position locking device. The coupling means has at least one first actuating means and a second actuating means, said second actuating means having a guide surface. The first actuating means is connected to the backrest inclination adjusting device or to a backrest part, and the second actuating means is connected to the seat longitudinal position locking device. Furthermore, the coupling means is configured such that the first actuating means interacts with the guide surface of the second actuating means when the backrest inclination adjusting device is actuated in order to actuate the seat longitudinal position locking device.