Single Actuator Power Retracting Assembly for Automotive Seat
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seat assemblies for automotive vehicles require multiple actuators to pivot the seat cushion and leg between seating and stowed positions, which complicates the mechanism and reduces efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A power retracting assembly using a single actuator to pivot the seat cushion and leg, comprising an inner and outer plate, a link, and a transmission with a planetary gear mechanism, allowing the seat assembly to move between seating and stowed positions by rotating the inner and outer plates in opposite directions, with the link facilitating pivotal movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple actuators are used to pivot the seat cushion and leg, then the seat assembly can move between seating and stowed positions, but the mechanism complexity increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuator functions into a single actuator that simultaneously controls both the seat cushion pivot and the leg pivot. The single actuator is mechanically linked to both movement points through a coordinated mechanism, allowing one actuator to perform the work that previously required multiple actuators, thereby reducing mechanism complexity while maintaining full functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuator is designed to perform multiple functions: it simultaneously provides the rotational force needed to pivot the seat cushion and the force needed to pivot the leg. This multi-functional actuator replaces multiple specialized actuators, simplifying the overall system while achieving the same operational results
2Ease of operation
If multiple actuators are used to pivot the seat cushion and leg, then the seat assembly can move between seating and stowed positions, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple actuator operations into a single actuator, the system eliminates the time delays and coordination overhead associated with multiple actuators operating sequentially or independently. The single actuator can simultaneously drive both the seat cushion and leg movements, improving operational efficiency and productivity
3Device complexity
If a single actuator is used to pivot both seat cushion and leg, then mechanism complexity is reduced, but the mechanical design becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary mechanical elements such as linkages, gears, or belt systems that translate the single actuator's rotational output into coordinated movements of both the seat cushion and leg. These intermediary mechanisms serve as mediators that distribute the actuator's force to multiple points while maintaining the desired motion relationships, making the design more manageable and manufacturable
Data Source
AI summary
A power retracting assembly includes an actuator, an output shaft operatively coupled to the actuator, and an outer plate rotatably coupled to the output shaft about an upper axis. A rigid link fixed to the output shaft pivots about a primary lower axis. Rotation of the outer plate by the output shaft in a first direction causes pivotal movement of the link about the primary lower axis in a second direction, thereby rotating the outer plate and the output shaft about the primary lower axis in the second direction. A bracket pivots about a secondary lower axis. A fastener extends from the outer plate through the bracket. As the outer plate rotates about the primary lower axis, the fastener also rotates, pulling the bracket about the secondary lower axis. A stop extending from the bracket travels along an anchor between a seating end and a stowed end for defining movement of the link and the seat assembly between the seating and stowed positions.