Vehicle Seat Backrest Pivoting Mechanism
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle bench seats with multiple configurations are either costly due to independent seats or limited in configuration options due to shared components, and switching between configurations is complex and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seat design with a lower frame connected to the vehicle floor via sliders, featuring a seating portion frame with two backrests that pivot independently about different axes, allowing for multiple configurations such as nominal, single fold, dive down, and comfort positions, with a connection system that enables simultaneous movement of the seating frame relative to the base during backrest pivoting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independent seats are used to provide various configurations, then configuration versatility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bench seat is divided into two independent seating units, each with its own backrest that can pivot independently. This segmentation allows each half to be configured separately (raised or folded position) while sharing a common base structure, achieving multiple configurations without requiring completely independent seat assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The common base structure serves multiple functions: it supports both backrests, provides the pivoting mechanism for both, and connects to the vehicle floor. This multi-functional base reduces overall complexity compared to having separate bases for each independent seat.
2Adaptability or versatility
If backrests are hinged to pivot independently, then configuration versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Both backrests are hinged to the same common base structure, merging the support and pivoting functions into a single structure. This reduces the number of separate hinging mechanisms needed compared to having independent bases for each backrest.
Solution Approach 2:
Each backrest has its own pivoting capability about its respective transverse axis, allowing independent movement. This segmentation of motion control enables flexible configuration while using a shared base structure.
3Productivity
If a connection system enables simultaneous movement during pivoting, then configuration switching speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is pre-configured to automatically coordinate the movement of the seating portion frame with the backrest pivoting. This preliminary arrangement of mechanical linkages ensures that when one backrest pivots, the seating frame moves simultaneously in the appropriate direction and distance, enabling quick configuration changes without complex active control systems.
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 design provides a versatile and cost-effective solution with multiple configurations that can be easily switched, accommodating various passenger and cargo needs while maintaining seat functionality and reducing complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
connection means comprising in particular sliders
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seat, comprising: a lower frame, intended to be connected to the floor of a vehicle, having: a base, intended to be connected to the floor of the vehicle, and a seating portion frame, comprising at least two seating places to accommodate at least two users, a first backrest pivotally hinged to the base, a second backrest pivotally hinged to the base, wherein the seat further comprises a connection system connecting the first backrest to the seating portion frame, configured so that the pivoting of the first backrest relative to the base causes the simultaneous movement of the seating portion frame relative to the base in the longitudinal direction and the vertical direction of the seat, in the two pivoting directions of the first backrest relative to the base.