Adjustable Firmness Seat Suspension Using Shape Memory Alloy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable seat suspensions in vehicles often fail to provide sufficient firmness options, leading to discomfort for users as they may be too firm or too soft, and there is a need for a cost-effective solution that can accommodate varying user preferences.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable firmness seat suspension system utilizing shape memory alloy (SMA) members, which are integrated with spring members and a controller to adjust the tension and firmness by altering the SMA's length in response to electrical signals, allowing for a range of spring tensions and firmness levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional spring suspensions are used, then the seat provides basic support, but the firmness cannot be adjusted to accommodate different user preferences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the spring members by integrating shape memory alloy (SMA) elements that can alter their length and stiffness in response to electrical signals. This allows the firmness of the seat suspension to be adjusted by changing the mechanical properties of the spring members through electrical activation of the SMA material.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional purely mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an electro-active system using shape memory alloys. Instead of requiring manual mechanical adjustments or complex hydraulic/pneumatic systems, the firmness is controlled by applying electrical signals to the SMA elements, which then mechanically respond by changing their dimensions and stiffness.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable firmness is implemented using traditional mechanisms, then user comfort is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms, multiple spring components, or hydraulic systems by using shape memory alloy elements that respond directly to electrical signals. This substitution reduces the number of parts, simplifies assembly, and lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining the ability to provide adjustable firmness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves firmness adjustment by changing the physical state and dimensions of the spring members through SMA material properties. This approach allows for continuous or discrete firmness levels to be achieved by varying the electrical signal parameters (voltage, current, duration), providing manufacturing flexibility and cost-effectiveness compared to multiple fixed spring assemblies.
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 provides customizable firmness levels, accommodating different user preferences, and can be locked at desired tension settings, enhancing user comfort and versatility across various vehicle types.
Implementation Method 1
The intermediate tensioning member is formed from a shape memory alloy (SMA) having a first length that provides a first spring tension of the seat suspension through the first and second spring members, and configured to alter its length to a second length that provides a second spring tension of the seat suspension through the first and second spring members in response to application of a tensioning signal thereto
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable firmness seat suspension includes a seat frame, first and second spring members, and an intermediate tensioning member. The seat frame includes a first frame member and a second frame member spaced apart from and opposite one another. The first spring member is attached to the first frame member, the second spring member is attached to the second frame member, and the intermediate tensioning member is attached to and extends between the first spring member and the second spring member. The intermediate tensioning member is formed from a shape memory alloy (SMA) having a first length that provides a first spring tension of the seat suspension through the first and second spring members, and configured to alter its length to a second length that provides a second spring tension of the seat suspension through the first and second spring members in response to application of a tensioning signal thereto.