Vehicle Seat Assembly with Pivoting Rear Mounting Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat assemblies lack a flexible and efficient mechanism to pivot between multiple positions, particularly in stowable configurations, which limits their adaptability and user convenience.
Innovation Solution
A seat assembly design featuring a seat track, rear mounting unit, seat back, and seat bottom with pivotally mounted components and latch mechanisms that allow selective inhibition of movement, enabling the seat back and bottom to pivot and roll along defined axes, facilitating multiple position configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the seat assembly is designed to pivot between multiple positions, then adaptability and user convenience are improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple pivot points and latch mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The seat assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: the seat bottom, seat back, rear mounting unit, and latch mechanism. Each segment can move independently or be locked in position, allowing the system to achieve multiple configurations without requiring a completely complex redesign. The segmentation allows manageable complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat assembly incorporates dynamic elements including the roller that moves along the seat track, the rear mounting unit that pivots relative to the track, and the latch mechanism that selectively locks positions. These dynamic components enable the seat to transition between fixed and movable states, providing adaptability while controlling overall system complexity through standardized dynamic elements.
2Stability of the object's composition
If latch mechanisms are added to selectively inhibit movement, then position stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the position of the rear mounting unit along the seat track. The mechanism uses the movement itself to trigger the locking action, reducing the need for additional control systems or complex actuation mechanisms. This self-service approach provides position stability without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the rear mounting unit is made moveable on the seat track, then adaptability is improved, but reliability may worsen due to potential unintended movement
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is positioned and configured to preemptively prevent unintended movement of the rear mounting unit. As the mounting unit moves along the track, the latch mechanism is already in position to engage at predetermined locations, providing preliminary anti-action against potential instability or unintended displacement. This ensures reliability is maintained while preserving movement flexibility.
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
Enables smooth and controlled movement between different positions, such as a seating, folded, and easy entry position, enhancing user convenience and adaptability within a vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
The roller may be configured to roll along the top side of the seat track
Data Source
AI summary
A seat assembly having a seat bottom, a seat back, a seat track, and a rear mounting unit. The seat bottom may be pivotally mounted to the seat back. The seat back may be pivotally mounted to the rear mounting unit. The rear mounting unit may be moveably disposed on the seat track.