Variable Stop Element for Longitudinal Seat Rail Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stop mechanisms for longitudinally displaceable vehicle seats lack the ability to be variably positioned and automatically fixed, limiting their effectiveness in adjusting travel distances and absorbing forces.
Innovation Solution
A stop element with angled and pin-shaped holding elements, combined with a flexible fixing element such as an omega spring, allows for variable positioning and automatic fixing within a rail, enabling reliable stopping and adjustable travel distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional stop mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the stop cannot be variably positioned and automatically fixed in the rail
Solution Approach 1:
The stop element is divided into multiple holding elements (at least two) with different geometries (angled and pin-shaped), allowing the stop to engage with the rail at different positions and orientations, thereby enabling variable positioning while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The stop element is designed to automatically fix itself in the rail through its geometric holding elements that engage with corresponding features in the rail, eliminating the need for additional fixing mechanisms or manual adjustment, thus achieving variable positioning without increasing device complexity
2Force
If a rigid holding element is used, then the stopping force is strong, but the installation and positioning flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different holding elements are designed with different geometries (angled vs. pin-shaped) to perform different functions: one provides strong stopping force while the other enables flexible insertion and positioning, allowing each part to optimize its local function for overall system performance
3Ease of manufacture
If a stop mechanism with automatic fixing is implemented, then the installation is simplified, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stop element automatically fixes itself in the rail through the geometric interengagement of its holding elements with rail features, eliminating the need for separate fixing mechanisms, fasteners, or adjustment procedures, thereby simplifying installation without adding manufacturing complexity
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 reliable and adjustable stop mechanism that can absorb large forces and simplify installation, allowing for customizable travel limits in vehicle seat adjustment systems.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible fixing element, in particular a holding spring, is provided. The holding spring is configured as an omega spring
Implementation Method 2
the pin shaped holding element can be is configured such that the latter fixes itself with a form fit and/or force fit connection
Data Source
AI summary
A stop (11, 11′), in particular an abutment for a longitudinal adjustment mechanism, includes a stop element (15, 15′) that can be placed in various positions. The stop element is configured to automatically lock into a retaining position.