Vehicle Seat Power Track Bracket Reinforcement and Sensor Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat power track systems face challenges in withstanding collision loads due to bending transmission mounting brackets and require a compact seat position sensor design that is immune to debris interference for accurate airbag control.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seat power track system with a reinforced transmission mounting bracket and a seat position sensor mounted on the upper rail, using a magnet or shunt plate to detect seat position, which is aligned with the sensor to control airbag power, and a laser-welded detecting cell for improved accuracy and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the transmission mounting bracket is made larger to provide more strength to withstand collision loads, then the strength of the power track is improved, but the space constraints inside the track section are violated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the lead screw from being fixed to the lower rail to being mounted on the upper rail, fundamentally changing the spatial arrangement and load distribution dimensions. This dimensional reconfiguration allows the transmission mounting bracket to be smaller while still providing sufficient strength, as the load path is redistributed through the rail structure itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper rail serves multiple functions: it supports the seat assembly, mounts the lead screw, and provides structural reinforcement for the transmission mounting bracket. By making the upper rail multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for an oversized bracket, as the rail itself contributes to the overall structural strength.
2Measurement precision
If a seat position sensor is used to control airbag power based on seat position, then the airbag control accuracy is improved, but the sensor is affected by debris (dirt and dust) in the passenger cabin
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical seat position sensor with a magnetic field-based detection system. A magnet is mounted on the transmission bracket, and its position is detected by a magnetic sensor, eliminating the need for mechanical components or optical paths that are susceptible to debris interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field serves as an intermediary between the seat position and the detection system. The magnet mounted on the transmission bracket creates a magnetic field that can be detected through non-contact means, allowing position detection without direct line-of-sight or mechanical contact that would be affected by cabin debris.
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
The solution enhances the structural integrity of the transmission mounting bracket to withstand collision loads and provides a compact, debris-resistant seat position sensor that accurately controls airbag power, ensuring occupant safety and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
A position sensor is mounted at a predetermined position on the top surface of the upper rail to detect a magnet or a shunt (plate) member (or detecting cell) generating a magnetic field near the sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
A vehicle seat power track (24, 26) for an automobile vehicle seat which includes a sensor (38) arrangement to detect the seat position along the track relative to a front airbag apparatus and generate a signal to control the apparatus of the airbag. The vehicle seat power track also includes brackets (32) configured to reduce horizontal movement of the track components.