Torsion spring bushing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seating systems face challenges in maintaining consistent force requirements for height adjustment, as torsion spring bushings can move laterally and rotationally out of the torsion tube, increasing the force needed over time due to increased contact with the torsion spring.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seating assembly with a torsion tube and torsion spring bushing that includes brushes for an interference fit with the torsion tube, a retaining ring, and a hinge or fastener for secure assembly, preventing unwanted movement and maintaining consistent force for height adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the torsion spring bushing is allowed to move freely within the torsion tube, then the assembly is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the bushing moves laterally and rotationally out of the torsion tube over time, increasing the force needed for height adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing is segmented into multiple brush elements that can independently contact the torsion tube, allowing the bushing to maintain position through distributed contact points rather than rigid constraints, simplifying assembly while preventing excessive movement
Solution Approach 2:
The brush elements act as intermediaries between the bushing and the torsion tube, providing friction-based resistance to lateral and rotational movement without requiring complex mechanical constraints, thus maintaining consistent force requirements
2Force
If the torsion spring bushing is secured with brushes for interference fit, then the force for height adjustment remains consistent, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing utilizes flexible brush elements that can deform and conform to the torsion tube surface, providing an interference fit that maintains consistent force without requiring complex rigid structural constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The friction parameters between the brush elements and the torsion tube are optimized to provide sufficient resistance to unwanted movement while maintaining ease of assembly, balancing force consistency with structural simplicity
3Force
If the torsion spring bushing is constrained to prevent lateral and rotational movement, then the force for height adjustment remains consistent, but the assembly and installation process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing employs dynamic brush elements that can move and adjust during assembly, allowing for self-alignment and easier installation while still providing the necessary constraints to prevent excessive lateral and rotational movement during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The brush elements provide self-aligning friction-based constraints that automatically adjust during assembly, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or specialized installation tools while maintaining consistent force characteristics
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 a stable and consistent force for height adjustment by preventing lateral and rotational movement of the torsion spring bushing, reducing the effort required to adjust the seat height and facilitating easy assembly and accurate placement.
Implementation Method 1
The bushing defines a brush configured to contact the torsion tube
Implementation Method 2
A torsion spring extends within the torsion tube and is in contact with both side members
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seating assembly is provided which includes a seat back and a seat base operably connected to the seat back. The seat base has a seat base frame that includes a torsion tube extending laterally between at least two side members. A height adjustment mechanism is disposed through at least one of the side members. A torsion spring extends within the torsion tube and is in contact with at least two side members. A torsion spring bushing is positioned around the torsion spring and extends into the torsion tube. The torsion spring bushing defines a brush configured to contact the torsion tube and a retaining ring positioned around the torsion tube. The retaining ring is in contact with at least one side member.