Sliding Seat Track Connector Latch for Secure Power Detachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing track assemblies for vehicle seats lack efficient mechanisms for connecting and disconnecting electrical components while allowing for smooth sliding motion and easy removal of support assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A track assembly with a track electrical connector and a support assembly electrical connector, featuring a latch and actuator system that allows for secure engagement and disengagement of electrical connections, along with a cable winder to manage the electrical cable, enabling smooth sliding and easy removal of the support assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a track assembly allows smooth sliding motion of support assemblies, then the sliding capability is improved, but the mechanism for securing electrical connections during motion becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A latch mechanism acts as an intermediary between the support assembly and track assembly, providing secure mechanical engagement that maintains electrical connection reliability during sliding motion. The latch engages with the track electrical connector to ensure stable connectivity while allowing controlled movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The track assembly incorporates dynamic elements including a movable latch that can transition between engaged and disengaged states, and an actuator that enables controlled movement. This dynamic design allows the system to maintain electrical connections during sliding while permitting easy removal when needed.
2Reliability
If the track assembly provides secure electrical connections, then electrical reliability is improved, but the ease of removing support assemblies deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The track assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: a track electrical connector for secure electrical connection, a latch mechanism for mechanical engagement, and an actuator for controlled release. This segmentation allows the electrical connection to be secured independently while providing a separate, simple mechanism for removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the actuator, which enables single-handed operation for engagement and disengagement. The system serves itself by integrating the release mechanism directly into the connection assembly, eliminating the need for separate tools or complex procedures for removal.
3Reliability
If a latch and actuator system is added for secure engagement, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism and actuator are merged into a single integrated assembly that works as one unit. The actuator directly actuates the latch without requiring separate linkages or intermediate components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining secure engagement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch and actuator system is designed to perform multiple functions: securing the electrical connection during sliding motion, enabling easy removal when needed, and providing a simple user interface. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A track assembly, comprising a track, a track electrical connector movably connected to the track, and a support assembly slidably connected to the track. The support assembly includes a support assembly electrical connector connectable with the track electrical connector, a latch selectively engageable with the track electrical connector, and an actuator including at least one of a lever, an actuator cable, or a handle. The actuator is operably coupled with the latch to selectively disengage the latch from the track electrical connector. The track electrical connector is movable with the support assembly and relative to the support assembly.