Smart-Height Vehicle Seat Adjusting Vertical Position
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seats lack the ability to automatically adjust to optimal comfort and safety positions based on the longitudinal position within a vehicle, which can lead to discomfort and reduced safety during various vehicle operations such as cleaning or passenger entry.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seat system with a smart-height system that includes a remote-actuation unit, position-sensor unit, and longitudinal lock unit, allowing the seat to adjust vertically and longitudinally to predetermined positions based on the seat's longitudinal location, using a controller to coordinate movements and store preferred positions for recall.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the seat is fixed at a single vertical position, then the structure is simple, but passenger comfort and safety are reduced during various vehicle operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the seat vertical position adjustable rather than fixed. The smart-height system enables the seat to dynamically change its vertical position based on the longitudinal position and vehicle operation mode, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to different conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the vertical position parameter of the seat based on longitudinal position and vehicle operation. The controller modifies the vertical position parameter in response to different longitudinal positions and vehicle modes (e.g., cleaning mode, passenger entry mode), allowing the seat to adapt to different operational requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the seat structure is simplified without adjustment mechanisms, then manufacturing is easier, but comfort and safety during vehicle operations are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the seat to automatically adjust its own vertical position based on sensor input and controller logic. The position sensor detects longitudinal position, and the controller automatically commands the height actuator to adjust the seat vertical position without requiring manual intervention from the passenger.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the position sensor that continuously monitors the longitudinal position of the seat and provides this information to the controller. The controller uses this feedback to determine the appropriate vertical position and commands the height actuator accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system.
3Productivity
If the seat cannot adjust vertically, then the device complexity is low, but productivity during vehicle cleaning and passenger entry is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the seat to automatically move to optimal vertical positions for different vehicle operations. When the vehicle enters cleaning mode or passenger entry mode, the controller proactively adjusts the seat vertical position in advance, preparing the seat for the upcoming operation without requiring manual intervention.
4Reliability
If the seat uses fixed positioning, then the lock mechanism is simple, but safety and comfort during various operations are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing simple mechanical positioning with an electronically controlled height adjustment system. The smart-height system uses electronic actuators and controllers to achieve precise vertical positioning, substituting mechanical adjustment mechanisms with electro-mechanical systems that offer greater precision and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seat includes a seat bottom and a seat back coupled to the seat bottom to extend upwardly away from the seat bottom. The vehicle seat further includes a seat-bottom foundation arranged to interconnect the seat bottom and seat back to translate back and forth relative to a vehicle floor.