Two-Position High-Mount Latch for Multi-Angle Seatback Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional latch mechanisms for seatbacks in seat assemblies typically lock the seatback in only one angular position relative to the seat bottom, failing to allow for adjustment into different angular positions.
Innovation Solution
A latch mechanism with a rotatable claw and locking mechanism that can lock a striker at two different locations along a channel, enabling the seatback to be locked in multiple angular positions by selectively engaging and disengaging the striker at various points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional latch mechanism is used to lock the seatback, then the seatback is securely locked in one angular position, but the seatback cannot be adjusted to different angular positions
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a claw with multiple locking positions, a striker with corresponding engagement points, and a actuating mechanism. This segmentation allows the seatback to be locked at multiple discrete angular positions (first upright position, second upright position, and fold-flat position) while maintaining a manageable overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism transitions from a static single-position design to a dynamic multi-position system. The claw is designed to rotate or move between different locked states, enabling the seatback to be securely held at various angular positions. The mechanism includes movable components that allow selective engagement at different positions while maintaining reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the latch mechanism is designed to lock at multiple positions, then angular adjustment flexibility is improved, but the reliability of locking may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the latch mechanism are designed with specialized qualities for their specific functions. The claw has specific engagement surfaces optimized for positive locking at each position, the striker has corresponding features for reliable engagement, and the actuating mechanism has differentiated control for selecting between positions. This local optimization ensures reliable locking at each position while maintaining multi-position capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism incorporates design features that anticipate and prevent potential failure modes. The multiple locking positions are designed with sufficient engagement depth and surface area to ensure secure locking under various load conditions. The structure includes inherent mechanical advantages that maintain locking reliability even when accounting for manufacturing tolerances and wear over time.
Data Source
AI summary
A latch mechanism that selectively receives a striker is provided. The latch mechanism includes a housing having a channel and a locking mechanism having a claw rotatably supported by the housing and movable between a first locked state and a second locked state. The claw locks the striker at a first location along a length of the channel in the first locked state and locks the striker at a second location along a length of the channel different than the first location in the second locked state.