Integrated Seatback User Interface with Passive Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle information systems are complex, heavy, difficult to install, and generate heat, leading to passenger discomfort and increased fuel consumption, with integrated user interface systems facing challenges in minimizing heat dissipation and avoiding inadvertent touchscreen activation.
Innovation Solution
A user interface system with a touchscreen display and communication port oriented at a predetermined angle, integrated into a seatback with passive cooling features and a proximity sensor for activation, reducing interference and heat buildup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple system components are integrated into a single user interface system at the passenger seat, then device complexity and weight are reduced, but heat generation increases in a smaller volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces active cooling elements (fans, heat sinks) and passive cooling features (ventilation channels, heat dissipation structures) that add thermal management dimensions to the integrated system. This allows the system to dissipate heat effectively despite the compact integration of multiple components, resolving the contradiction between reduced complexity and increased heat generation.
2Area of moving object
If the touchscreen display is made as large as possible to improve visibility, then viewing quality is enhanced, but heat dissipation becomes more difficult due to restricted space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces thermal management components (cooling fans, heat sinks, ventilation channels) as intermediary elements between the display and the surrounding environment. These intermediaries facilitate heat transfer and dissipation, allowing the display to maintain a large size while effectively managing the heat generated by both the display and integrated components.
3Volume of moving object
If the communication port is positioned close to the touchscreen display for compact design, then space is saved, but inadvertent activation of the touchscreen occurs during port operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating distinct functional zones within the integrated system. The communication port is positioned in a specific location with appropriate spacing and angular orientation relative to the touchscreen display, creating a local area where port operations can be performed without affecting the touchscreen. This spatial differentiation resolves the contradiction between compact design and operational reliability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional discrete system components are installed throughout the passenger vehicle, then system functionality is achieved, but the system becomes heavy and difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple discrete system components (video interface, audio interface, control systems, communication ports) into a single integrated user interface system that can be installed at the passenger seat. This consolidation maintains all necessary functionalities while significantly reducing the overall weight and simplifying installation, directly resolving the contradiction between system functionality and weight.
Data Source
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AI summary
A light-weight and low-power integrated system module suitable for installation at a passenger seat disposed aboard a passenger vehicle and methods for manufacturing and using same. By integrating selected interface system components with the associated interconnections, the integrated system module provides an intuitive user interface system for interacting with a passenger entertainment system. The integrated system module can be installed within a seatback of the passenger seat that compliments the look and feel of the user interface system, creating an immersive entertainment experience during travel.