Vehicle Seat Rail Locking Apparatus Spring Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing locking apparatus for vehicle seat rails requires additional components to fix the spring and has complex assembly processes due to the need to compress the spring, leading to increased component count and assembly complexity.
Innovation Solution
A simplified locking apparatus structure featuring a first part with a center pin and first catching portions on the upper rail, a second part with second catching portions on the upper rail, and an elastic body connecting both parts, which provides elastic restoring force and simplifies spring fixation, allowing for improved assembly convenience by compressing the spring during coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate component is added to fix the spring, then the spring can be securely fixed, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring fixing function is merged with the existing locking apparatus structure. The spring is directly engaged with the fork unit and lower rail components that already exist in the system, eliminating the need for separate spring fixing components. This integration maintains reliable spring fixation while reducing overall component count.
2Reliability
If a structure to fasten the spring while compressing it is used, then the spring can be securely fixed, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The spring is pre-compressed during the assembly process by utilizing the natural movement of the fork unit. As the fork unit moves into its locked position, the spring is automatically compressed and secured without requiring separate compression tools or complex fastening operations. This preliminary action approach simplifies assembly while ensuring reliable spring fixation.
3Reliability
If additional components are used to fix the spring, then the spring can be securely fixed, but the assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring fixation mechanism is designed to be self-assembling through the natural movement of existing components. The fork unit's movement automatically compresses and secures the spring in place, eliminating the need for additional assembly steps or specialized tools. This self-service approach maintains reliable spring fixation while significantly improving assembly efficiency.
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 assembly convenience and simplifies spring fixation by integrating spring-fixing structures within the first and second parts, reducing the number of components and improving assembly efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic body disposed between the first part and the second part having one end connected to the plurality of first catching portions and another end connected to the plurality of second catching portions, the elastic body being configured to provide an elastic restoring force to the first and second parts
Data Source
AI summary
A locking apparatus for a seat rail for a vehicle, in which a spring is compressed and fastened when first and second parts are coupled to an upper rail, such that convenience of assembly is improved, and structures for fixing the spring are respectively provided on the first and second parts, such that the structures for fixing the spring are simplified.