Seat Return Interlock for Easy-Entry Cushion Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Seat cushions in typical automotive vehicle seat assemblies can prematurely shift from the easy entry position to the design position before reaching an intermediate position along the vehicle floor, especially when the seat assembly is near the forward position.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an interlock element pivotally coupled to the sliding track, which extends between a first end with an interlock hook and a second end with an interlock leg. This interlock element moves from a locked condition, where the hook engages with the seat cushion or link to hold it in the easy entry position, to an unlocked condition, allowing the seat cushion to move to the design position as the seat assembly moves rearward.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the seat cushion is allowed to move freely between easy entry position and design position, then ease of operation is improved, but premature shifting occurs before reaching intermediate position
Solution Approach 1:
An interlock element is introduced as an intermediary component between the seat cushion and the seat track assembly. This interlock element includes an interlock hook that engages with the seat cushion and an interlock leg that interacts with the seat track, mediating the movement control to prevent premature shifting while allowing proper position transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlock element is configured to engage the seat cushion in the easy entry position before the seat assembly reaches the intermediate position. This preliminary engagement ensures the seat cushion remains properly positioned during forward movement, preventing premature shifting to the design position until the correct timing is reached.
2Reliability
If an interlock element is added to prevent premature shifting, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interlock element is divided into distinct functional segments: an interlock hook portion for engaging the seat cushion, an interlock leg portion for interacting with the seat track, and a pivotal connection point. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design and assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlock element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it prevents premature shifting of the seat cushion, controls the timing of position transitions, and interfaces with both the seat cushion and seat track assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A seat assembly for movement between a plurality of positions within an automotive vehicle includes a seat back pivotally coupled to a seat cushion and a seat track assembly with a sliding track repositionable along a fixed track for movement of the seat assembly between a forward position and a rearward position. A linkage assembly extends between the seat cushion and the sliding track for movement of the seat cushion between an easy entry position and a design position. An interlock element is pivotally coupled to the sliding track. Movement of the seat assembly from the forward position to the rearward position pivots the interlock element from a locked condition engaged with the linkage assembly for holding the seat cushion in the easy entry position, to an unlocked condition disengaged from the linkage assembly for allowing movement of the seat cushion to the design position.