Seatback Storage Container Latch Mechanism for Secure Panel Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seatback storage areas lack efficient and user-friendly mechanisms for securing and accessing storage compartments, particularly in terms of securing and unsecuring panels for passenger items during different seating positions.
Innovation Solution
A storage container system for vehicle seating assemblies featuring a latch mechanism with a cam member and cable assembly that allows the panel to be selectively moved between secured and unsecured positions, utilizing a torsion spring for force exertion and a cable system for easy operation, ensuring secure storage and easy access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a latch mechanism is added to secure the panel, then storage security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a cam member for locking engagement, an actuator assembly for actuation, and a spring member for biasing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall design and manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring member automatically biases the cam member into the locked position with the striker, providing self-latching functionality. The system requires minimal user intervention - simply pressing the panel against the cam member releases the latch, while normal panel closure automatically engages it.
2Force
If a cam member is used to exert force on the panel, then panel release force is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam member utilizes a curved cam surface that converts rotational or linear motion of the actuator into amplified force applied to the panel. The curved geometry provides mechanical advantage, enabling easy panel release with minimal actuation force while maintaining a simple single-component design.
3Productivity
If the latch mechanism is disposed adjacent to the panel, then access efficiency is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed with tolerance compensation features that allow it to function effectively across a range of positions. The cam member and striker are configured to engage over an extended contact area, and the spring member provides adaptive biasing force, eliminating the need for precise positioning during manufacturing while maintaining efficient access.
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 provides secure storage and easy access to passenger items by allowing the panel to be securely locked and unlocked, maintaining containment during vehicle movements and crashes, while maintaining passenger legroom and aesthetics.
Implementation Method 1
a spring member that exerts a spring force on the arm assembly to move the arm assembly from the first position to the second position
Implementation Method 2
the spring member is a torsion spring
Implementation Method 3
movement of the cam member from the stored position to the deployed position causes the cam member to contact the panel and to exert a force on the panel
Data Source
AI summary
A storage container for a vehicle seating assembly includes a base of the storage container affixed to a seatback. A panel is coupled to the base. A latch mechanism is disposed in the base and adjacent to the panel, wherein the latch mechanism is selectively operable between locked and unlocked positions to move the panel between respective secured and unsecured positions.