Vehicle Seatback Stabilization Device with Angled Panels

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing seatback stabilization systems for vehicles are complex and costly, and often require additional reinforcement due to the lack of durability in hook members and load-bearing stabilization panels, which are not sufficient to withstand impacts during sudden stops.

Innovation Solution

A seatback stabilization device with a seatback stabilization portion connected to the seatback and a vehicle body connection portion featuring an aperture for a load-bearing structure connector, which includes angled stabilization panels and side walls with apertures to securely engage with a vehicle cargo compartment reinforcement structure, providing enhanced stability and reduced complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a releasable latch structure with pin and recess is used to stabilize the seatback, then the seatback can be locked in position, but the structure becomes complicated and operation cost becomes prohibitive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseatback locking reliabilityVSAvoidlatch structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the complex releasable latch mechanism (pin, recess, and latch components) and replaces it with a simplified permanent stabilization structure consisting of hook members directly welded to the mounting frame. This extraction eliminates unnecessary complexity while maintaining the essential function of securing the seatback.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using a releasable locking mechanism that requires active engagement and disengagement, the patent inverts the approach by using a permanent welded connection that is always engaged. The stabilization is achieved through the rigid welded joint between hook members and the mounting frame, eliminating the need for complex locking and unlocking operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Reliability

If three hook members are used to connect the mounting frame to the stabilization panel, then the seatback can be stabilized, but the hook members are not durable enough and additional tubular members are needed for reinforcement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseatback stabilization reliabilityVSAvoidreinforcement structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs composite construction by welding hook members (providing connection function) to the mounting frame (providing structural support). This composite approach creates a unified reinforcement structure where the combination of hook members and mounting frame achieves the required strength and durability, eliminating the need for additional separate tubular reinforcement members.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Ease of operation

If the vehicle stabilization panel is used as the load-bearing structure, then the seatback can be connected, but the panel is not durable enough to sustain impact from the rear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseatback connection easeVSAvoidimpact resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the stabilization function from the panel and creates a separate reinforcement structure consisting of the mounting frame and welded hook members. This segmentation allows the reinforcement structure to specifically handle impact loads from the rear, while the panel maintains its original stabilization function, with each component optimized for its specific purpose.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9346373B2Seatback stabilization device and vehicle employing the same
Publication Date: 2016.05.24 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US9346373B2 patent drawing
  • US9346373B2 patent drawing
  • US9346373B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In one or more embodiments, a vehicle seatback stabilization device includes a seatback stabilization portion to be connected to a seatback, and a vehicle body connection portion including an aperture to receive a connector of a vehicle body load-bearing structure. The seatback stabilization portion may include first and second stabilization panels positioned with an angle relative to each other. The vehicle body connection portion may extend away from the second stabilization panel such that the second stabilization panel is positioned between the first stabilization panel and the vehicle body connection portion.