Single Hinge Walk-in Device for Vehicle Seats
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional walk-in and folding devices for vehicle seats require two hinge structures, leading to increased space occupation, complex assembly, and higher manufacturing costs due to the excessive number of parts.
Innovation Solution
A single hinge-type structure walk-in device for a seat, incorporating a rotor and a puller with elastic springs, a base plate, and specific geometric features that allow both walk-in and folding functions, reducing the number of parts and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two hinge structures are used to implement walk-in and folding functions, then the functions can be achieved, but the space occupied by parts increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate hinge structures into a single integrated hinge assembly. The first hinge and second hinge are combined into one hinge structure that includes a hinge body, hinge shaft, and connecting arms, thereby reducing the number of parts while maintaining both walk-in and folding functions
Solution Approach 2:
The single hinge structure is designed to perform multiple functions: it enables both the walk-in operation (through the first connecting arm and walk-in rod) and the folding operation (through the second connecting arm and folding rod), making the hinge assembly universal for both seat adjustments
2Adaptability or versatility
If two hinge structures are used to implement walk-in and folding functions, then the functions can be achieved, but manufacturing costs increase due to excessive number of parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple hinge components into a single integrated hinge assembly, reducing the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled. This consolidation directly reduces manufacturing costs while preserving both walk-in and folding functionalities
3Adaptability or versatility
If two hinge structures are used to implement walk-in and folding functions, then the functions can be achieved, but ease of assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates two separate hinge installations into a single hinge assembly that is installed as one unit. This reduces the number of assembly steps, alignment operations, and fastening procedures required, thereby significantly improving ease of assembly while maintaining both seat adjustment functions
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 solution enables efficient operation of both walk-in and folding functions using a single hinge structure, minimizing space, improving assembly ease, and reducing manufacturing costs by reducing the number of parts.
Implementation Method 1
a rotor spring configured to provide an elastic force to the rotor in a return direction
Implementation Method 2
a puller spring configured to provide an elastic force to the puller in a return direction
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a walk-in device for a seat. The walk-in device includes: a rotor configured to operate in conjunction with a recliner during a walk-in operation; a puller configured to operate in conjunction with the rotor during the walk-in operation, and to operate only in conjunction with the recliner without operating in conjunction with the rotor during a folding operation; a rotor spring configured to provide an elastic force to the rotor in a return direction; a puller spring configured to provide an elastic force to the puller in a return direction; and a base plate configured to rotatably install the rotor and the puller on a cushion frame of the seat, wherein the rotor and the puller are configured to set up a single rotation point with respect to the base plate via a hinge shaft.