Vehicle Seat Slide Rail Locking for Continuous Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slide rail locking systems for vehicle seats with continuous adjustment lack efficient mechanisms for locking the slide rail in an unlimited number of positions, leading to limited adjustment flexibility and increased manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A slide rail locking system with continuous adjustment that includes a rail with friction surfaces, blocking members with guide walls, and an elastic member generating return forces to ensure bracing and locking of the slide rail elements in both directions, along with an unlocking mechanism for releasing the sliding motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional locking mechanisms are used for slide rails, then the structure is simple, but the adjustment positions are limited and flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member is divided into two separate blocks (first blocking block and second blocking block) that can independently engage with the rail. This segmentation allows continuous positioning capability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, as each block can function independently to provide locking at any position along the rail.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking member is designed to be movable relative to the second slide rail element, transitioning between a retracted position (allowing sliding) and an engaged position (providing locking). This dynamic capability enables the system to switch between locked and unlocked states, providing continuous adjustment flexibility without requiring a complex fixed structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If continuous adjustment locking is implemented, then adjustment flexibility is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second blocking blocks are integrated into a single movable blocking member that is mounted on the second slide rail element. This merging reduces the number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled, simplifying production while still providing continuous adjustment capability through the coordinated action of both blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member automatically urges the blocking member into the engaged position, providing self-locking functionality without requiring additional actuators or complex control mechanisms. This self-service feature simplifies manufacturing by eliminating the need for powered locking systems while maintaining continuous adjustment capability.
3Reliability
If blocking members are used for locking, then locking reliability is improved, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable blocking member serves multiple functions: it provides locking in the engaged position through both blocking blocks, allows sliding when retracted, and is actuated by the elastic member. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, maintaining reliability while controlling the overall number of parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member acts as an intermediary between the blocking member and the locking mechanism, providing the necessary force to engage the blocking blocks with the rail. This intermediary approach improves locking reliability by ensuring consistent engagement force without requiring a complex powered actuation system.
4Force
If friction surfaces are used for locking, then locking force is enhanced, but energy loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The friction between the blocking blocks and rail is applied only when locking is required (in the engaged position), rather than continuously. The blocking member can be retracted to minimize friction during sliding operations, applying friction force only when needed for locking, thus enhancing locking force while reducing overall energy loss.
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 system enables continuous adjustment and locking of the slide rail in an unlimited number of positions, enhancing flexibility and user convenience while reducing manufacturing complexity and costs compared to traditional systems.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member mounted between the first blocking member and the second blocking member, generating a return force configured to urge the first blocking member and the second blocking member towards each other
Implementation Method 2
the rail presenting a first, upper, friction surface, and an opposite second, lower, friction surface
Data Source
AI summary
A system for locking a slide rail for a vehicle seat with continuous adjustment, comprises a fixed rail, and two blocking members urged towards each other by an elastic member to ensure their bracing on the rail, as well as to an unlocking mechanism comprising an unlocking member ensuring the release of the sliding of the slide rail by a separation of the two blocking members.