Seat Track Assembly Load Absorption via Support Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current seat track assemblies in vehicles experience deformation under high loads due to weight reduction efforts, necessitating improved load absorption features to provide added support and reduce deformation.
Innovation Solution
The seat track assembly includes a lower seat track with opposing outer rails and an upper seat track with opposing inner rails, supported by a stiffening member that extends vertically and laterally to restrict movement and deformation, and a skid member that helps transfer loads to the vehicle frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If seat assemblies are made lighter to reduce vehicle weight, then vehicle weight is reduced, but seat track deformation increases under high loads
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is divided between the upper seat track, lower seat track, and separate support members. The support members are further segmented into vertical portions and lateral portions, each handling specific deformation modes independently, allowing the system to maintain strength while keeping individual components lightweight.
Solution Approach 2:
The support members extend in multiple dimensions - vertically between the upper and lower seat tracks, and laterally between the inner rails. This multi-dimensional support structure provides comprehensive deformation restriction without requiring increased mass of any single component.
2Ease of manufacture
If seat track components are made lighter, then manufacturing cost and vehicle weight are reduced, but deformation resistance under high loads deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The structural support function is segmented across multiple lightweight components (upper seat track, lower seat track, support members) rather than requiring a single heavy structure. Each component can be optimized for its specific function and manufactured separately, reducing overall material usage while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat track assembly uses composite construction with multiple components made from potentially different materials optimized for their specific functions. The support members, upper track, and lower track can be made from materials and thicknesses suited to their specific load requirements, creating an overall composite structure that is both lightweight and stable.
Data Source
AI summary
A seat track assembly may include a lower seat track having a pair of opposing outer rails and an upper seat track having a pair of opposing inner rails. The inner rails of the upper seat track may cooperate with the outer rails of the lower seat track to support the upper seat track for movement on the lower seat track. A support member may be provided between the lower seat track and the upper seat track. The support member may include a portion that extends in a vertical direction between the lower seat track and the upper seat track to restrict vertical movement of the upper seat track relative to the lower seat track. The support member may also include a portion that extends in a lateral direction between the inner rails of the upper seat track to restrict the inner rails from deforming inwardly toward one another.