Insert for integration into trim layer and providing conditioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat conditioning systems require separate installation of inserts and trim layers, which can be cumbersome and may not provide a seamless integration, potentially allowing the insert's profile to be felt by occupants.
Innovation Solution
A conditioning system where an insert, including a cover layer, a heater, and a spacer layer, is integrally connected to the trim layer of a vehicle seat, forming a unitary piece, allowing simultaneous application and ensuring the insert is self-contained and not felt by the occupant.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the insert is separately installed from the trim layer, then the installation process becomes complex and time-consuming, but the insert can be securely fastened to the seat
Solution Approach 1:
The insert is integrally connected to the trim layer, merging two previously separate components into a single unitary piece. This eliminates the need for separate installation steps while maintaining secure fastening through the integrated connection structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated insert-trim layer combination serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides climate control functionality, maintains seat aesthetics, and ensures secure attachment all in one component, simplifying both installation and overall system performance.
2Reliability
If the insert profile is made prominent for secure attachment, then the fastening reliability improves, but the occupant can feel the insert profile causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The connection to the seat frame is provided locally at specific attachment points rather than across the entire insert surface. This allows secure fastening at discrete locations while maintaining a smooth, comfortable surface at the occupant contact areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert is nested within the trim layer structure, with the connection to the seat frame provided through the trim layer. This nesting arrangement allows the insert to be securely attached while remaining hidden within the trim layer profile, preventing occupant perception.
3Device complexity
If the insert is made self-contained with internal heater and spacer, then the system complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The heater and spacer components are pre-positioned and integrated into the insert structure during manufacturing. This preliminary integration ensures precise positioning of thermal management components while simplifying the overall system assembly process.
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 solution provides a seamless integration of the conditioning system into the vehicle seat, enhancing comfort by ensuring the insert is securely fastened and its components, such as heaters and blowers, are effectively distributed without being noticeable to the occupant, while maintaining airflow and temperature control.
Implementation Method 1
a heater located under the cover layer
Implementation Method 2
a blower that is located on a bottom of the seat such that air is moved from a remote location to the insert to distribute the air
Data Source
AI summary
An insert comprising: (a) a cover layer; (b) a spacer layer located below the cover layer; (c) a connection material that is adapted to extend between and connect the cover layer to a trim layer so that the insert is fixed to the trim layer.