Front Seat Backrest Release System with Single Pivot Handle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing front seat backrest release systems are complex and costly to manufacture, often requiring multiple fulcrums and springs, and lack versatility in mounting options for left or right seats.
Innovation Solution
A simplified front seat backrest release system utilizing a single handle and Bowden cables with a ratchet and pawl arrangement, where the handle pivots about a single axis, and is easily deployable on either side of the seatback, using a mounting bracket and elastic member for activation, with a strap to limit excessive movement and prevent misuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If existing front seat backrest release systems are used, then the seatback release function is achieved, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase due to multiple fulcrums and springs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes unnecessary components (multiple fulcrums and springs) from the traditional release system, retaining only the essential elements needed for the release function. This extraction of non-essential parts directly reduces manufacturing cost and assembly complexity while maintaining the core release capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple separate components into a more integrated structure. By merging the functions of multiple fulcrums and springs into a simplified mechanism with fewer parts, the system achieves the same release function with reduced complexity and lower manufacturing requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing front seat backrest release systems are used, then the release function is achieved, but the versatility in mounting options for left or right seats is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the release system with universal mounting capabilities that allow it to be installed on either left or right seats without requiring different configurations. The simplified structure with single fulcrum and spring can be adapted to multiple mounting positions, enhancing versatility while maintaining low complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric design elements that allow the same basic structure to function correctly on both left and right sides of the vehicle. By designing the mounting interface and cable routing to accommodate asymmetric installation orientations, the system achieves versatility without increasing overall complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simplified release system with single handle and Bowden cables is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the reliability of the release mechanism may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a ratchet and pawl mechanism that provides automatic one-way locking and controlled release without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems. This self-service mechanism ensures reliable operation while maintaining simplicity, as the ratchet automatically engages to prevent unintended release and only allows release when the handle is actively operated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent includes a return spring that is pre-loaded to ensure reliable return of the handle to its original position after release. This beforehand cushioning through spring energy storage guarantees that the release mechanism reliably resets itself after each operation, maintaining consistent performance without adding complexity.
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 effectively releases the seatback over a limited arcuate path with reduced assembly and manufacturing costs, while allowing easy deployment on either side of the seatback, enhancing user safety and system durability.
Implementation Method 1
a spring or elastic member such as a cord or band that extends between a foot of the mounting bracket and the handle. The handle is thereby biased to an initial downward position
Implementation Method 2
a flexible cable that transmits mechanical forces by the movement of an inner cable relative to an outer hollow cable housing
Data Source
AI summary
A seatback release system comprising a seat backrest frame with an attached mounting bracket. Secured to the mounting bracket is a handle which pivots about a pivot point. The handle and the mounting bracket cooperate so that the release system can be deployed on a front left or right seat by attaching the handle to one or the other end of the mounting bracket. One or more spring members extend between the mounting bracket and the handle so that the handle is thereby biased to an initial downward position in which the seat backrest frame is locked. A cable mechanism with a proximal end and a distal end extends between the handle and a seatback release subassembly. The core of the cable moves axially within the outer sheath in response to displacement of the handle, thereby releasing the seatback release subassembly.