Vehicle Seat Reclining Control Using Multi-Speed Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat control systems that adjust the seat back angle during predicted collisions can cause discomfort and annoyance due to sudden speed changes, and may not effectively manage noise and shock from the operating mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seat control apparatus that adjusts the reclining angle of a seat back using a multi-speed control method, starting at a slow speed and gradually increasing to a faster speed after a predetermined period, with the option to adjust speeds based on occupant input or collision prediction, and includes zones for varying speeds to minimize discomfort and noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the seat back angle is adjusted at a fast speed from the start during collision prediction, then the adjustment efficiency is improved, but the discomfort and annoyance to the occupant increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the adjusting speed variable rather than fixed. The control portion dynamically adjusts the speed of the seat back angle adjustment based on the adjustment phase: using a first (slower) speed during initial adjustment and a second (faster) speed after a predetermined period. This dynamic speed adjustment resolves the contradiction by optimizing both comfort during startup and efficiency during the main adjustment phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of adjusting speed from a constant value to a time-dependent variable. By changing the speed parameter from a single fixed value to multiple speeds (first speed and second speed) based on elapsed time, the system achieves both reduced initial discomfort and maintained adjustment efficiency. This parameter change allows the system to adapt to different phases of the adjustment process.
2Loss of time
If the seat back angle is adjusted at a fast speed from the start, then the response time is reduced, but the operational noise and shock from the operating mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by introducing a predetermined time period during which the seat back adjusts at a slower first speed before switching to the faster second speed. This initial slower phase acts as a cushion that reduces the impact, noise, and shock generated by the operating mechanism during startup, while still achieving the overall adjustment goal within an acceptable time frame.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the seat back adjustment starts at a slow speed, then the comfort is improved, but the adjustment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by dividing the seat back adjustment process into distinct time-based phases: an initial period with the first (slower) speed for comfort, followed by a subsequent period with the second (faster) speed for efficiency. This periodic variation in speed ensures that comfort requirements are met during the initial phase while the overall adjustment time remains acceptable due to the accelerated second phase.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seat control apparatus includes an adjusting device that adjusts a reclining angle of a seat back of a vehicle seat, and a control portion that controls the adjusting device. When adjusting the reclining angle, the control portion controls the adjusting device to start adjusting the reclining angle at a first speed, and then after a predetermined period of time passes, the control portion controls the adjusting device to adjust the reclining angle at a second speed that is faster than the first speed. The invention also relates to a control method of this vehicle seat control apparatus.