Seat Release Mechanism Using Cam Assembly for Track Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seat release mechanisms for vehicle seating assemblies are not efficient in allowing easy sliding forward, particularly when access to rear seating is restricted, making it difficult to access rear areas of vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A track release assembly with a cam assembly and release bar system, where a cable coupled to the seatback applies tension to rotate the cam assembly, engaging the release bar with a spring to release the track assembly, enabling fore and aft movement of the seating assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional locking mechanism is used to secure the seating assembly, then the track assembly remains stable and secure, but it becomes difficult to release and slide the seating assembly forward
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic released state through cam rotation. The cam assembly rotates between first and second positions, dynamically changing the engagement state of the release bar with the track assembly, allowing easy transition between secured and released conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The cam assembly uses curved cam surfaces to convert rotational motion into linear displacement of the release bar. The curved geometry of the cam provides mechanical advantage and smooth transition between locked and released states, improving ease of operation while maintaining reliability
2Ease of operation
If the seating assembly is designed to slide forward easily, then access to rear seating is improved, but the track assembly may become unstable or accidentally disengage
Solution Approach 1:
The spring applies a preliminary biasing force to keep the cam assembly in the first position, pre-counteracting any forces that might cause accidental disengagement. This preliminary anti-action ensures the track assembly remains securely locked unless a deliberate release action is taken
Solution Approach 2:
The spring provides continuous mechanical feedback to the cam assembly, maintaining it in the locked position through constant biasing force. This feedback mechanism ensures stability by automatically returning the system to the secured state if disturbed, while allowing intentional release when needed
3Reliability
If a complex release mechanism is used to ensure secure locking, then the track assembly stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam assembly merges multiple functions into a single component: it provides locking engagement, enables easy release through rotation, and works with the spring to maintain stability. This consolidation reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the overall mechanism while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The cam assembly serves multiple purposes: it locks the release bar in the first position, enables easy release when rotated to the second position, and works with the spring to provide automatic return and stability. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate locking and releasing mechanisms
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
Facilitates easy sliding of the seating assembly forward by releasing the track assembly, enhancing access to rear vehicle areas through a mechanical mechanism that is activated by the seatback's position, improving user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
A spring is positioned on the pin and configured to bias the cam assembly in the first position
Implementation Method 2
The cam assembly comprises a support member operably coupled to the track assembly and defining an aperture, a first cam positioned on a first side of the support member and engageable with the first end of the track assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A track release assembly is provided that comprises a track assembly releasable by a release bar, a cam assembly including first and second cams positioned on opposing sides of a support member and operably coupled by a pin, a spring configured to bias the cam assembly in a first position, and a cable operably coupled to the second cam and configured to rotate the first cam into engagement with the release bar.