Seat Track Fitting With Inverse Threads for Fast Securement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seat track fittings for aircraft and similar vehicles are difficult to install and remove, and they often fail to withstand torque and floor deformation during conditions like crashes.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a sleeve with a cylindrical threaded opening and a double effect post with inverse threads, allowing simultaneous tightening of the post and track stud with a single tool turn, along with a break-over pivot stop feature for deformation resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional seat track fittings are used, then the seat can be secured to the track, but the installation and removal process is difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is divided into distinct functional segments: the track stud with flange for track engagement, the double effect post with differential threads for tightening, and the sleeve for structural support. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The double effect post incorporates dynamic thread design with different thread hands (left-handed lower thread, right-handed upper thread) that convert rotational motion into simultaneous tightening of both the post and track stud. This dynamic mechanism enables easy operation through simple rotational movement while achieving secure fastening.
2Reliability
If traditional securement methods are used, then the seat can be attached to the track, but the fitting cannot withstand high torque and floor deformation during crashes
Solution Approach 1:
The flange on the track stud features a curved lower surface that contacts the lip section of the track at multiple points. This curved geometry distributes loads evenly and provides mechanical advantage for withstanding torque and deformation forces while maintaining ease of installation through the same flange structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting utilizes composite construction combining different materials with complementary properties: the track stud and post provide structural strength for torque resistance, while the threaded connections provide flexibility for installation. The combination of left-handed and right-handed threads creates a composite fastening system that resists deformation from multiple directions.
3Reliability
If multiple fastening operations are required, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The double effect post merges two fastening operations into one: rotating the post simultaneously tightens both the post itself (through the lower left-handed thread) and the track stud (through the upper right-handed thread). This merging of functions achieves secure attachment of both components in a single operational step, dramatically reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting design incorporates preliminary positioning features where the flange naturally guides the track stud into correct alignment with the track lip section before final tightening. This preliminary action ensures proper positioning is achieved automatically during installation, eliminating the need for separate alignment operations and reducing overall installation time.
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 enables easy installation and removal of seat track fittings, withstands torque and floor deformation, and allows for secure attachment of seats to vehicle floors, even during extreme conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a double effect post with an external lower thread and an internal threaded portion. The external lower thread is configured to cooperate with the cylindrical threaded opening of the sleeve. The seat track fitting also has a track stud with a lower flange that is configured to cooperate with a seat track and an upper external thread configured to cooperate with the internal threaded portion of the double effect post, wherein the double effect post external lower thread and the track stud external thread have inverse hands
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A
Figure 2B~3
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for installing seats in a passenger vehicle using seat tracks and seat fittings. The seat track fittings may include a sleeve (22) with a cylindrical threaded opening (24), a double effect post (26) with an external lower thread (28) and an internal threaded portion (36). The external lower thread is configured to cooperate with the cylindrical threaded opening of the sleeve. The seat track fitting also has a track stud (38) with a lower flange (46) that is configured to cooperate with a seat track (10) and an upper external thread (42) configured to cooperate with the internal threaded portion of the double effect post. The double effect post external lower thread and the track stud external thread have inverse hands, such that rotation of the double effect post tightens the post and the track stud simultaneously.