Sliding Device Lock Plate Mechanism for Seat Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sliding devices for seats, such as those described in Japanese Patent No. 6090107, have complex configurations and lack stability in maintaining the lock position due to reliance on spring levers and locking claws, which can lead to inefficient operation and increased manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A sliding device with a simpler configuration using a fixed rail, a movable rail, a lock plate, and a spring member with a tapered portion and press spring portion, where the lock plate is displaced orthogonally to the sliding direction, and the spring member applies an elastic force to maintain the lock plate in the locking position, utilizing a metallic wire rod bent into a V-shape and an elongated hole with a protrusion to prevent the tapered portion from falling out.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lock lever with locking claws and a spring is used, then the seat can be locked in position, but the device configuration becomes complex and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent components: a lock plate that engages with the fixed rail to prevent sliding, and a separate spring member that provides the locking force. This segmentation simplifies each component's structure while maintaining reliable locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a lever that rotates to engage locking claws, the invention uses a plate that displaces linearly in a direction orthogonal to the sliding direction. The lock plate moves between locked and unlocked positions through linear displacement rather than rotational motion, simplifying the mechanism.
2Reliability
If a lock lever with locking claws is used, then the seat can be locked, but the operation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock plate displaces in a direction orthogonal to the sliding direction, allowing for more direct and efficient operation. This linear displacement mechanism reduces operational complexity compared to rotational lever systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring member automatically maintains the lock plate in the locked position through elastic force, eliminating the need for continuous manual adjustment or complex control mechanisms. The system self-regulates to maintain locking reliability.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple fixing structure is used, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but the position adjustment capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The spring member is designed with a tapered portion that can be pressed toward the hole, enabling automatic position adjustment of the fixing structure. This dynamic feature allows the simple fixing structure to adapt to different positions while maintaining ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered portion of the spring member allows for parameter adjustment by pressing it toward the hole, which changes the fixing position automatically. This enables a simple structure to achieve position adaptability through physical parameter changes rather than complex mechanisms.
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 provides stable operation of the lock plate between locking and non-locking positions, reduces manufacturing costs, and prevents interference with the fixed rail, resulting in a more efficient and cost-effective sliding mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
The spring member applies to the plate surface an elastic force to maintain the lock plate in the locking position
Implementation Method 2
The press spring portion exerts an elastic force to press the tapered portion toward the hole
Data Source
AI summary
A sliding device includes a fixed rail, a movable rail, a lock plate, a spring member, and a fixing structure. The lock plate is displaced between a locking position where the lock plate engages with the fixed rail and restricts slide of the movable rail and a non-locking position where the restriction of slide is released. The spring member exerts an elastic force to maintain the lock plate in the locking position. The fixing structure includes a tapered portion of the spring member and a press spring portion that presses the tapered portion toward a hole of the movable rail.