Seat Support Assembly With Single-Actuator Bowden Cable Balancing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seat support assemblies require multiple components and actuators to achieve symmetric adjustable support in different regions, leading to increased costs and complexity, particularly in accommodating various components within the seat structure.
Innovation Solution
A support assembly with a single actuator simultaneously controlling two Bowden cable arrangements for adjusting the degree of support in multiple regions, utilizing a wire-length control mechanism to manage tension and prevent uncontrolled movement, allowing for symmetric adjustment with fewer components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate actuators and adjustment mechanisms are used for each support region, then independent adjustment of each region is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple adjustment mechanisms into a single integrated adjustment device that can simultaneously control Bowden cables for different support regions. This single device performs the function of what would traditionally require multiple separate actuators, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the capability to independently adjust each support region.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment device is designed with universal functionality to control multiple Bowden cables that serve different support regions. This multi-functional design allows one actuator to perform the work of multiple actuators, reducing component count while preserving independent adjustment capability for lumbar, pelvic, and other support regions.
2Ease of operation
If Bowden cable length is not controlled when tension is low, then cable movement freedom is maintained, but uncontrolled cable movement and noise occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the adjustment device monitors tension levels in the Bowden cables and automatically adjusts cable length accordingly. When tension drops below a threshold, the system retrieves excess cable length; when tension is sufficient, the cable maintains freedom of movement. This closed-loop control prevents uncontrolled movement and noise while preserving operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment device autonomously manages Bowden cable length without requiring external intervention. The system self-regulates cable tension and length based on operational conditions, preventing harmful effects like uncontrolled movement and noise generation while maintaining cable flexibility when needed.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3
AI summary
A support assembly having a first support region with adjustable degree of support and a second support region with adjustable degree of support for use in a seat structure is provided. The support assembly comprises a support member for incorporation into a seat frame, a first adjustment arrangement (10a) for adjusting the degree of support in the first support region, and a second adjustment arrangement (10b) for adjusting the degree of support in the second support region. The support assembly further comprises an actuator (20) coupled to the first adjustment arrangement (10a) and to the second adjustment arrangement (10b). By Bowden cables, the actuator being configured to simultaneously act on the first adjustment arrangement (10a) and on the second adjustment arrangement (10b) in opposite directions, and a wire-length control mechanism (60) to avoid problems due to a lack of tension of one of the Bowden cables.