Vehicle Seat Vibration Isolation Using Shape Memory Materials
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle occupants experience discomfort due to the transfer of road vibrations through vehicle seats, which existing seat designs fail to adequately isolate.
Innovation Solution
The use of shape memory material members and super elastic wires to dynamically adjust the stiffness of vehicle seat components, allowing for real-time vibration isolation by controlling temperature or tension to reduce the transmission of vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional rigid seat structures are used, then structural strength is maintained, but vibration isolation performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using shape memory material members that can dynamically change their stiffness characteristics in real-time based on operating conditions. The seat structure transitions from a static rigid design to a dynamic adaptive system where the support members can soften to isolate vibrations or stiffen to provide structural support as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by utilizing the temperature-dependent stiffness properties of shape memory materials. By controlling the temperature of the shape memory material members, the system can adjust the stiffness parameter to optimize either vibration isolation (softer state) or structural support (stiffer state), resolving the contradiction between these two requirements.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If rigid seat structures are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but comfort deteriorates due to vibration transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses parameter changes by exploiting the inherent temperature-stiffness relationship of shape memory materials. The system controls vibration isolation by adjusting the temperature parameter of the support members, allowing a single component design to provide different mechanical properties without requiring multiple separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical vibration isolation systems (such as complex spring assemblies or hydraulic dampers) with shape memory material members whose mechanical properties are controlled through thermal fields. This substitution simplifies the mechanical structure while adding controllable adaptability.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If vibration isolation is enhanced through soft materials, then comfort improves, but structural support capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the seat support members to transition between different stiffness states. In normal operation, the shape memory material members maintain a softer state for vibration isolation, but can be activated to become stiffer when structural support is required, providing both comfort and strength through temporal separation of functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes to resolve the force-stiffness contradiction. By controlling the temperature parameter of the shape memory materials, the system can adjust the stiffness parameter to match operational requirements: softer for vibration isolation during steady-state operation, and stiffer for structural support during dynamic loading conditions.
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
This solution effectively reduces the transfer of vibrations to vehicle occupants, enhancing comfort by dynamically adjusting the stiffness of seat components based on real-time conditions, thereby improving vibration isolation performance.
Implementation Method 1
one or more shape memory material members. The seat cushion can be supported by the one or more shape memory material members. The one or more shape memory material members can be configured to have selectively variable stiffness
Implementation Method 2
one or more super elastic wires. The one or more super elastic wires can be operatively connected to one or more structures such that the seat pan is suspended on the one or more super elastic wires
Data Source
AI summary
Vibration isolation for vehicle seat components can be provided and/or can be adjustable. A vehicle seat can include a seat portion. The seat portion can include a seat cushion and/or a seat pan. In some arrangements, one or more shape memory material members can be provided. The seat cushion can be supported by the one or more shape memory material members. The one or more shape memory material members can be configured to have selectively variable stiffness. In some arrangements, one or more super elastic wires can be provided. The one or more super elastic wires can be operatively connected to one or more structures such that the seat pan is suspended on the one or more super elastic wires.