Trunk-Actuated Seatback Latch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanisms for actuating a rear interior row seatback to a dump position in vehicles are limited in their ease of operation and flexibility, often requiring complex cable systems and manual intervention, which can be cumbersome and less efficient.
Innovation Solution
A trunk latch triggering mechanism featuring a cylinder module within the trunk, communicating with a pull strap via a cable, and including a release lever and a push button that can independently actuate a downwardly displaceable bracket to disengage the latch from a seatback striker, allowing for both cable-actuated and button-actuated operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a complex cable system is used to actuate the seatback, then the mechanism can be operated from multiple locations, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows the seatback to be actuated automatically through the cable mechanism when the trunk is opened, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The cable system is self-actuating through the trunk latch mechanism, providing both versatility and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual intervention requirement is extracted from the system by implementing an automatic cable-actuated mechanism. The cable system is disconnected from manual operation and instead is actuated automatically by the trunk latch, removing the cumbersome manual step while maintaining multi-location operation capability.
2Device complexity
If a simple manual latch mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to lack of flexible actuation methods
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to serve multiple functions: it can be actuated manually through the cable system from various locations, or automatically through the trunk opening mechanism. This multi-functionality provides operational flexibility without significantly increasing the base latch complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch system transitions from a static manual mechanism to a dynamic system that can operate in multiple modes: manual actuation through the cable, automatic actuation through the trunk latch, or a combination of both. This dynamic capability enhances operational flexibility while maintaining relatively simple mechanical components.
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
This mechanism provides a more efficient and flexible means to actuate the rear seatback to a dump position, offering easy operation through either the pull strap or push button, enhancing user convenience and operational simplicity.
Implementation Method 1
a lever mounted to the module for displacing the bracket, a cable extending from the lever and terminating in a pull strap mounted within the passenger interior
Data Source
AI summary
A latch triggering mechanism for actuating a rear interior row seatback dump including a first generally cylinder shaped module mounted within a trunk of a vehicle, the module including a downwardly extending and displaceable bracket. A latch assembly is secured to a package surface separating the trunk from a passenger interior of the vehicle. A release lever associated with the latch extends in abutting contact with the bracket such that, upon actuating the bracket into contact with the lever, the latch disengages a striker associated with a foldable seatback.