SMA-Controlled Hinge for Rapid Vehicle Seat Adjustment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat adjustment mechanisms are slow and require manual intervention, failing to quickly adapt to changing passenger comfort or safety needs, particularly during safety events like turns or high g-forces.
Innovation Solution
A shape memory alloy (SMA) controlled hinge assembly that includes a stationary and movable plate coupled by an SMA wire, actuated to change phase and adjust the shape or position of occupant support components such as seat bottoms, seatbacks, and headrests, allowing for automatic and rapid changes in shape or position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual adjustment mechanisms are used, then device complexity is reduced, but speed of adjustment and automation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional motorized mechanical adjustment systems with a shape memory alloy (SMA) wire actuation system. The SMA wire transforms from martensite to austenite phase when heated, generating mechanical force to rotate the hinge assembly and adjust the bolster section, thereby eliminating complex motors and gear mechanisms while achieving rapid automated adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes phase transformation of the shape memory alloy wire as a parameter change mechanism. By changing the temperature parameter of the SMA wire (through electrical heating), the material transitions between martensite and austenite phases, causing significant dimensional changes that drive the hinge rotation and achieve rapid seat adjustment without complex mechanical systems.
2Ease of operation
If pre-programmed adjustment options are provided, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to quick changes is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic adjustment system using shape memory alloy wires that can rapidly change the configuration of the seat bolster in response to varying conditions. The SMA-based hinge assembly allows the seat to dynamically transition between different positions and angles, providing both pre-programmed options and real-time adaptability to passenger needs and safety requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory alloy wire actsuator system provides automated self-service adjustment capability. When electrical current is applied to heat the SMA wire, it automatically transforms phase and drives the hinge mechanism to adjust the seat bolster position without requiring manual intervention, combining ease of operation with quick adaptability.
3Reliability
If traditional motorized systems are used, then reliability is improved through proven technology, but mechanical failure risk increases due to more moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the motor, gear train, and other complex mechanical transmission components from traditional seat adjustment systems. By using shape memory alloy wire directly as the actuator, the design removes multiple potential failure points while maintaining the essential adjustment function, thereby improving reliability through simplification.
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory alloy wire acts as a simple, fail-safe actuator that can be easily replaced if needed. The SMA wire lacks complex internal mechanisms and moving parts, making it inherently more reliable and maintenance-free compared to motorized systems, aligning with the principle of using simple, replaceable components for critical 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 SMA-controlled hinge assembly enables quick and automatic adjustments to enhance passenger comfort and safety by providing temporary increased lateral support and firmness during vehicle maneuvers, reducing the risk of mechanical failure associated with traditional motorized systems.
Implementation Method 1
A shape memory alloy wire is provided, coupled to the first and second pluralities of retaining features, and is configured to transform in phase causing the movable plate to rotate with respect to the stationary plate
Implementation Method 2
An actuator is provided and configured to transform the phase of the shape memory alloy wire
Data Source
AI summary
A shape memory alloy (SMA) controlled hinge assembly is provided, including assemblies and combinations for adjusting a shape or position of an occupant support component, such as a vehicle seat support component or other seating component. The assembly includes an occupant support component and a hinge assembly configured to adjust a shape or position of at least a portion of the occupant support component. The hinge assembly includes a stationary plate and a movable plate rotatable relative to the base plate about a fixed axis of rotation. The hinge assembly includes a shape memory alloy wire coupling the stationary plate with the movable plate. An actuator is provided and configured to transform the phase of the shape memory alloy wire. In various aspects, the occupant support component is selected from one of a seat bottom; a seatback; a seat bolster; a seat head rest, and the like.