CN114614316A - Electrical track assembly - Google Patents

Electrical track assembly Download PDF

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Publication number
CN114614316A
CN114614316A CN202111478186.8A CN202111478186A CN114614316A CN 114614316 A CN114614316 A CN 114614316A CN 202111478186 A CN202111478186 A CN 202111478186A CN 114614316 A CN114614316 A CN 114614316A
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CN
China
Prior art keywords
support member
contact
conductor
switch
assembly
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
CN202111478186.8A
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Chinese (zh)
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CN114614316B (en
Inventor
安东尼·费雷法布雷加斯
劳尔·里卡特
乔斯·加布里埃尔·费尔南德斯·巴纳尔斯
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Lear Corp
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Lear Corp
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Publication date
Priority claimed from US17/116,959 external-priority patent/US11807142B2/en
Application filed by Lear Corp filed Critical Lear Corp
Publication of CN114614316A publication Critical patent/CN114614316A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of CN114614316B publication Critical patent/CN114614316B/en
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    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R16/00—Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for; Arrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for
    • B60R16/02—Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for; Arrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric constitutive elements
    • B60R16/023—Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for; Arrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric constitutive elements for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems
    • B60R16/027—Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for; Arrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric constitutive elements for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems between relatively movable parts of the vehicle, e.g. between steering wheel and column
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R41/00—Non-rotary current collectors for maintaining contact between moving and stationary parts of an electric circuit
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/02—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable
    • B60N2/0224—Non-manual adjustments, e.g. with electrical operation
    • B60N2/0244—Non-manual adjustments, e.g. with electrical operation with logic circuits
    • B60N2/0264—Non-manual adjustments, e.g. with electrical operation with logic circuits characterised by the type of electrical connection, e.g. wiring, plugs or USB
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60N—SEATS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES; VEHICLE PASSENGER ACCOMMODATION NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60N2/00—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
    • B60N2/02—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable
    • B60N2/04—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable
    • B60N2/06—Seats specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles the seat or part thereof being movable, e.g. adjustable the whole seat being movable slidable
    • B60N2/07—Slide construction
    • B60N2/0722—Constructive details

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • Transportation (AREA)
  • Train Traffic Observation, Control, And Security (AREA)
  • Electric Propulsion And Braking For Vehicles (AREA)

Abstract

An electrical track assembly may include: a pair of tracks including a first track comprising a first conductor, a second track comprising a second conductor; and a support member configured to be connected with, removed from, and moved along the pair of rails in a first configuration and a second configuration. The support member may include a first support member contact, a second support member contact, an electrical load including a first load contact and a second load contact, and a manual switch assembly configured to selectively electrically connect the first conductor with the first load contact, to selectively electrically connect the second conductor with the second load contact, and to prevent current flow (i) between the first conductor and the second load contact and (ii) between the second conductor and the first load contact, the manual switch assembly including a blocking element.

Description

Electrical track assembly
Technical Field
The present disclosure relates generally to track assemblies, including track assemblies having electrical components and track assemblies that provide and/or facilitate electrical connections.
Background
This background description is set forth below for the purpose of providing context only. Thus, any aspect described in this background is neither expressly nor implicitly admitted as prior art to the present disclosure to the extent that it is not otherwise proven prior art.
Some track designs may not be configured for connection in multiple directions/in multiple configurations and/or may require expensive/complex electrical systems.
Accordingly, there is a need for a solution/option that minimizes or eliminates one or more challenges or disadvantages of the track assembly. The foregoing discussion is intended to be merely illustrative of the art and not a disavowal of scope.
SUMMARY
In an embodiment, an electrical track assembly may include: a pair of tracks including a first track comprising a first conductor, a second track comprising a second conductor; and a support member configured to be connected with, removed from, and moved along the pair of rails in a first configuration and a second configuration. The support member may include a first support member contact, a second support member contact, an electrical load including a first load contact and a second load contact, and a manual switch assembly configured to selectively electrically connect the first conductor with the first load contact, to selectively electrically connect the second conductor with the second load contact, and to prevent current flow (i) between the first conductor and the second load contact and (ii) between the second conductor and the first load contact, the manual switch assembly including a blocking element.
In an embodiment, an electrical track assembly comprises:
a pair of rails, the pair of rails comprising:
a first track comprising a first conductor;
a second track comprising a second conductor;
a support member configured to be connected with, removed from, and moved along the pair of rails in a first configuration and a second configuration, the support member comprising:
a first support member contact configured to selectively electrically connect with the first conductor in the first configuration and with the second conductor in the second configuration;
a second support member contact configured to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor in the first configuration and the first conductor in the second configuration;
an electrical load comprising a first load contact and a second load contact; and
a manual switch assembly configured to selectively electrically connect the first conductor with the first load contact, to selectively electrically connect the second conductor with the second load contact, and to prevent current flow (i) between the first conductor and the second load contact and (ii) between the second conductor and the first load contact, the manual switch assembly including a blocking element.
In some embodiments, the first track comprises a first end and a second end; the manual switch assembly includes a manual switch electrically connected to the first support member contact, the second support member contact, the first load contact, and the second load contact; the manual switch is configured to switch to a first switch position toward the first end to connect the first load contact with the first conductor when the support member is in the first configuration; and the manual switch is configured to switch to a second switch position towards the first end to connect the first load contact with the first conductor when the support member is in the second configuration.
In some embodiments, the manual switch includes a third switch position in which the manual switch does not connect the first load contact with either of the first conductor or the second conductor.
In some embodiments, the manual switch assembly comprises a double pole double throw switch.
In some embodiments, the blocking element comprises a diode configured to limit current flow between the first load contact and the second conductor.
In some embodiments, when the support member is in the first configuration, the first support member contact is configured to move between (i) an engaged position in which the first support member contact is in contact with the first conductor and restricts removal of the support member from the first track, and (ii) a disengaged position in which the first support member contact is not in contact with the first conductor and does not restrict removal of the support member from the first track.
In some embodiments, the manual switch assembly includes an electrical switch having a first switch position and a second switch position; in the first switch position, the electrical switch connects the first support member contact with the first load contact; and in the second switch position, the electrical switch connects the first support member contact with the second load contact.
In some embodiments, the manual switch assembly includes an indicator circuit configured to provide at least one of a first visual indication and an audible indication when: (i) the electrical switch is switched to the second switch position when the support member is in the first configuration, or (ii) the electrical switch is switched to the first switch position when the support member is in the second configuration; and the indicator circuit is configured to provide a second visual indication when (a) the electrical switch is switched to the first switch position when the support member is in the first configuration, or (b) the electrical switch is switched to the second switch position when the support member is in the second configuration.
In some embodiments, the indicator circuit comprises a pair of light emitting diodes connected in parallel with each other and arranged in parallel with the diodes and/or the electrical load; and the pair of light emitting diodes are connected in opposite directions.
In some embodiments, the electrical track assembly comprises: a second support member configured to be connected with, removed from, and moved along the first and second rails, the second support member including: a third support member contact configured to selectively electrically connect with the first conductor when the second support member is connected to the pair of rails in the first configuration and to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor when the second support member is connected to the pair of rails in the second configuration; a fourth support member contact configured to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor when the second support member is connected to the pair of rails in the first configuration and to selectively electrically connect with the first conductor when the second support member is connected to the pair of rails in the second configuration; a second electrical load comprising a third load contact and a fourth load contact; and a second switch assembly configured to selectively connect the first conductor with the third load contact, selectively connect the second conductor with the fourth load contact, prevent current flow between the first conductor and the fourth load contact, and prevent current flow between the second conductor and the third load contact.
In some embodiments, the support member and the second support member are configured to be simultaneously connected with the pair of rails by each of the following arrangements: (i) the support member and the second support member in the first configuration, (ii) the support member in the first configuration and the second support member in the second configuration, (iii) the support member in the second configuration and the second support member in the first configuration, and (iv) the support member and the second support member in the second configuration.
In some embodiments, for each arrangement, the manual switch assembly is configured to facilitate current flow (a) between the first conductor and the first load contact and (b) between the first conductor and the third load contact.
In some embodiments, the manual switch assembly is connected to or includes the first support member contact and the second support member contact.
In some embodiments, the manual switch assembly is configured to move between a first switch assembly position when the support member is in the first configuration and a second switch assembly position when the support member is in the second configuration to connect the first support member contact to the first conductor and the second support member contact to the second conductor.
In some embodiments, the first rail includes an asymmetrical feature and the second rail does not include the asymmetrical feature.
In some embodiments, the blocking element comprises a link configured to engage the asymmetrical feature and mechanically limit actuation of the manual switch assembly.
In some embodiments, the manual switch assembly is configured to be moved by a user from a disengaged position in which the support member is not electrically connected with the first and second conductors to an engaged position in which the support member is electrically connected with the first and second conductors.
In some embodiments, the first support member contact is configured to selectively electrically connect with the first conductor when the support member is connected to the pair of rails in the first configuration and to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor when the support member is connected to the pair of rails in the second configuration; and the second support member contact is configured to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor when the support member is connected to the pair of rails in the first configuration and to selectively electrically connect with the first conductor when the support member is connected to the pair of rails in the second configuration.
In some embodiments, the first rail is disposed adjacent a first side of a mounting surface and the second rail is disposed adjacent a second side of the mounting surface; a manual switch of the manual switch assembly is configured to switch to a first switch position toward the first side to connect the first load contact with the first conductor when the support member is in the first configuration; and the manual switch is configured to switch to a second switch position towards the first side to connect the first load contact with the first conductor when the support member is in the second configuration.
In an embodiment, a support member configured to be connected with, removed from, and moved along and relative to a pair of rails in a first configuration and a second configuration, the support member comprising: a first support member contact configured to selectively electrically connect with a first conductor of the pair of rails in the first configuration and a second conductor of the pair of rails in the second configuration; a second support member contact configured to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor in the first configuration and the first conductor in the second configuration; an electrical load comprising a first load contact and a second load contact; and a switch assembly configured to selectively electrically connect the first conductor with the first load contact, selectively electrically connect the second conductor with the second load contact, and prevent current from flowing (i) between the first conductor and the second load contact and (ii) between the second conductor and the first load contact.
The foregoing and other possible aspects, features, details, utilities, and/or advantages of the examples/embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent from reading the following description and from reviewing the accompanying drawings.
Brief Description of Drawings
While the claims are not limited to the specific illustrations, an understanding of various aspects may be gained through a discussion of various examples. The drawings are not necessarily to scale and certain features may be exaggerated or hidden to better illustrate and explain an innovative aspect of an example. Furthermore, the exemplary illustrations described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or otherwise limiting and are not limited to the precise forms and configurations shown in the drawings or disclosed in the following detailed description. The exemplary illustrations are described in detail by reference to the following drawings:
fig. 1 is a side view generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Fig. 2A is a cross-sectional view generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical assembly in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, wherein the support assembly is connected in a first orientation.
Fig. 2B is a cross-sectional view generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure in which the support assemblies are connected in a second orientation.
Fig. 3A, 3B, and 3C are schematic diagrams generally illustrating portions of embodiments of electrical assemblies according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Fig. 4A and 4B are schematic diagrams generally illustrating portions of embodiments of electrical assemblies according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Fig. 5A and 5B are schematic diagrams generally illustrating portions of an embodiment of an electrical assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Fig. 6A and 6B are schematic diagrams generally illustrating portions of an embodiment of a control circuit of an electrical assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Fig. 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams generally illustrating portions of an embodiment of a control circuit of an electrical assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Fig. 7C and 7D are schematic diagrams generally illustrating portions of embodiments of control circuits of electrical assemblies according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Fig. 8 is a side view generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure with a first support member in a first configuration and a second support member in a second configuration.
Fig. 9 is an end view generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure with the support member in a first configuration.
Fig. 10 is an end view generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure with the support member in a second configuration.
Fig. 11 is an end view generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure with the support member in a second configuration.
Figure 12 is a diagram generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly with a switch circuit in a first switch circuit position in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.
Figure 13 is a diagram generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly with a switch circuit in a second switch circuit position in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.
Fig. 14 is a diagram generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly with a switch circuit in a third switch circuit position in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.
Figure 15 is a diagram generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly with two support members having a switch in a first position according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Figure 16 is a diagram generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly with two support members having a switch in a second position in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.
Figure 17 is a diagram generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly with two support members having switches in first and second positions, respectively, in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.
Figure 18 is a diagram generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly with two support members having switches in first and second positions, respectively, in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.
Fig. 19 is a diagram generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly having two pairs of tracks and five support members in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.
Fig. 20 is an end view generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure with the support member in a first configuration.
Fig. 21 is an end view generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical rail assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure with the support member in a second configuration.
Fig. 22 is an enlarged view of a portion of an embodiment of a switch and an embodiment of a blocking element according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Fig. 23A-23C are end views of embodiments of a track and power supply of an electrical track assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Fig. 24-28B are end views generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical track assembly with a support member according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Figure 29 is an end view generally illustrating an embodiment of an electrical rail assembly having a support member according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description
Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the disclosure will be described in conjunction with the embodiments and/or examples, they are not intended to limit the disclosure to these embodiments and/or examples. On the contrary, the present disclosure covers alternatives, modifications, and equivalents.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 1, 2A, and 2B, the electrical assembly 20 may include a support assembly 22, a support member 30, a track assembly 38, and/or a control circuit 52. The control circuit 52 may include at least one of a switch/relay assembly 60, a diode assembly 80, and/or a switch assembly 90. Support member 30 may support seat 30A and/or be connected to seat 30A. The electrical assembly 20 may be configured to at least partially control movement of the support assembly 22. The support member 30 may be configured to be selectively connected (e.g., electrically and/or mechanically connected) with the track assembly 38. For example, and without limitation, support member 30 may be configured to provide an electrical connection between track assembly 38 and support assembly 22, and support assembly 22 may include vehicle seat 30A and/or other elements that may be connected to support member 30. The track assembly 38 may be connected to a mounting surface 24, such as a vehicle floor.
According to embodiments, support member 30 may be connected to track assembly 38 and/or configured to engage track assembly 38. The support members 30 and/or the track assembly 38 may extend substantially longitudinally (e.g., in the X-direction). For example, and without limitation, the support member 30 may move (e.g., slide, roll, translate, etc.) in a longitudinal direction along the track assembly 38. The support member 30 may selectively engage and/or disengage the track assembly 38. Support member 30 may be inserted into track assembly 38 and/or removed from track assembly 38 in the Z-direction (e.g., vertical direction). For example, but not limiting of, the support member 30 may include a cassette configuration.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 2A, the track assembly 38 may include a first track 40 and/or a second track 40'. The first track 40 and/or the second track 40' may extend substantially in a longitudinal direction (e.g., the X-direction). The first track 40 and/or the second track 40' may be substantially identical and/or may be provided in a mirror image configuration. The first track 40 may be offset from the second track 40' in the Y-direction. The first track 40 and/or the second track 40' may comprise substantially the same length. The support member 30 may include a first portion 32 and/or a second portion 34. First portion 32 and/or second portion 34 may selectively engage first track 40 and/or second track 40'. For example, without limitation, first portion 32 of support member 30 may engage first track 40 and/or second portion 34 of support member 30 may engage second track 40 '(e.g., forward facing support assembly 22), and/or first portion 32 of support member 30 may engage second track 40' and/or second portion 34 of support member 30 may engage first track 40 (e.g., rearward facing support assembly 22).
According to an embodiment, the first track 40 and/or the second track 40 ' may comprise an outer track 42, 42 ' and/or an inner track 44, 44 '. The outer track 42, 42' may include a first/bottom wall 421、421', a second wall 422、422' and/or third wall 423、423'. BottomWall 421、421', a second wall 422、422' and/or third wall 423、423' may be connected to form a generally U-shaped configuration. For example, the bottom wall 421、421' may be substantially planar. Second wall 422、422' and/or third wall 423、423' can be taken from the bottom wall 421、421The opposite side of' extends vertically (e.g., in the Z direction). Second wall 422、422'may include first portions 42A, 42A', and/or third wall 423、423'may include a second portion 42B, 42B'. The first portion 42A, 42A ' and/or the second portion 42B, 42B ' may project laterally (e.g., in the Y-direction) toward the center of the track 40, 40 '. The first portion 42A, 42A 'and/or the second portion 42B, 42B' may be substantially planar. In an embodiment, first portion 42A, 42A ' and/or second portion 42B, 42B ' may be arranged such that a gap 46, 46 ' may be provided between first portion 42A, 42A ' and second portion 42B, 42B ' (e.g., first portion 42A, 42A ' and second portion 42B, 42B ' may be offset in the Y direction). The gap 46 may extend longitudinally along the track 40, and/or the gap 46 may be centered along the track 40.
In an embodiment, the inner tracks 44, 44 'may be at least partially disposed in the outer tracks 42, 42'. For example, but not limiting of, the inner rails 44, 44' may be substantially U-shaped. The inner track 44, 44' may include a first wall 441、441', a second wall 442、442' and/or third wall 443、443'. Second wall 442、442' may be greater than the third wall 443、443' short. Second wall 442、442' and/or third wall 443、443' may be at least partially flexed and/or bent. Second wall 442、442' and third wall 443、443' can be taken from the bottom wall 441Extending vertically (e.g., vertically). Bottom wall 44 of inner rail 44, 441、441Can be substantially aligned withBottom wall 42 of track 42, 421、421' aligned and/or adjacent. Second wall 44 of inner track 44, 442、442' can be substantially aligned with the second wall 42 of the outer track 42, 422、422' aligned and/or adjacent. Third wall 44 of inner track 44, 443、443' third wall 42 which may be substantially aligned with outer rails 42, 423、423' aligned and/or adjacent.
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 2A and 2B, the outer rail 42 of the first rail 40 may include a first recess 48A and a third recess 48C. The outer rail 42 'of the second rail 40' may include a second recess 48B and a fourth recess 48D. Recesses 48A, 48B, 48C, 48D may be provided in the second wall 42 of the outer track 42, 422、422' Top and second wall 44 of inner rail 44, 442、442Between the top of. The recesses 48A, 48B, 48C, 48D may extend partially to the second wall 422、422' e.g., in the Y direction. The recesses 48A, 48B, 48C, 48D may include one or more of a variety of shapes, sizes, and/or configurations. For example, but not limiting of, the recesses 48A, 48B, 48C, 48D may be substantially rectangular, circular, and/or curved.
In an embodiment, the first track 40 and/or the second track 40' may include one or more bus bars 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D (e.g., electrical conductors). The first track 40 may include a first bus bar 50A and/or a third bus bar 50C. The second rail 40' may include a second bus bar 50B and/or a fourth bus bar 50D. The bus bars 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D may include one or more of a variety of shapes, sizes, and/or configurations. For example, but not limiting of, the bus bars 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D may be substantially U-shaped. The bus bars 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D may extend substantially longitudinally (e.g., in the X-direction). The bus bars 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D may be electrically conductive and/or include an electrically conductive material. The first bus bar 50A may be at least partially disposed in the first recess 48A of the first track 40, the second bus bar 50B may be at least partially disposed in the second recess 48B of the second track 40 ', the third bus bar 50C may be at least partially disposed in the third recess 48C of the first track 40, and/or the fourth bus bar 50D may be at least partially disposed in the fourth recess 48D of the second track 40'. The bus bars 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D may be disposed at least partially between the outer rail 42, 42 'and the inner rail 44, 44' (e.g., in the Z-direction). The bus bars 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D may extend along a portion of the first and/or second rails 40, 40 'or along the entire length of the first and/or second rails 40, 40'. The bus bars 50A, 50B may be electrically connected to the power source 26 (e.g., vehicle battery) and may be configured to provide power from the power source 26 to the support member 30 at some or all points along the track 40.
According to an embodiment, the bus bars 50A, 50B may be configured to connect with the power source 26 and/or the first ECU 28A. For example, but not limiting of, first bus bar 50A and/or second bus bar 50B may be configured to be connected to power source 26. The first bus bar 50A and/or the second bus bar 50B may be configured to provide power to the support assembly 22 through the support member 30. The first bus bar 50A may be connected to a first/positive terminal 26A of the power source 26, and/or the second bus bar 50B may be connected to a second/negative terminal 26B of the power source 26, the second/negative terminal 26B may be grounded. The first bus bar 50A and/or the second bus bar 50B may lead to one or more electrical components 22C, 22C of the second ECU 28B and/or the support assembly 221、22C2(e.g., motors, heaters, fans, haptic devices, etc., as generally illustrated in FIGS. 1-2B) supplying electrical power, electrical components 22C, 22C1、22C2One or more functions (e.g., support member movement, heating, cooling, massaging, etc.) may be provided.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 2A and 2B, the support member 30 may include one or more conductors (e.g., conductors 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D). The first portion 32 of the support member 30 may include a first conductor 36A and/or a third conductor 36C. The second portion 34 of the support member 30 may include a second conductor 36B and/or a fourth conductor 36D. In the first orientation of the support assembly 22, the first conductor 36A may be configured to connect with the first bus bar 50A and/or the second conductor 36B may be configured to connect with the second bus bar 50B (see, e.g., fig. 2A).
According to an embodiment, in the second orientation of the support assembly 22, the first conductor 36A may be configured to connect with the second bus bar 50B, and/or the second conductor 36B may be configured to connect with the first bus bar 50A (see, e.g., fig. 2B). In embodiments, the conductors 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D may include one or more of a variety of shapes, sizes, and/or configurations. For example, but not limiting of, the conductors 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D may be elliptical, rectangular, curved, rounded, and/or oblong. Conductors 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D may be substantially planar.
According to an embodiment, electrical assembly 20 may include first ECU28A and/or second ECU 28B. The first ECU28A and/or the second ECU 28B may be configured to communicate with (e.g., receive information from, send information to, digitally communicate with, and/or sense a status/voltage of) the control circuit 52, such as with the switch/relay assembly 60, the diode assembly 80, and the switch assembly 90. The first ECU28A and/or the second ECU 28B may be configured to sense a state (e.g., such as a voltage) of the control circuit 52. First ECU28A may be connected to track assembly 38. The second ECU 28B may be connected to the support member 30. For example, but not limiting of, the second ECU 28B may be configured to control one or more functional/electrical components 22C of the support assembly 22. The control circuit 52 may be connected (e.g., electrically connected) between the bus bars 50A, 50B and the second ECU 28B. The first ECU28A may be configured to receive information regarding the orientation of the support member 30 (and the seat 30A that may be connected to the support member 30), such as through the second ECU 28B and/or the control circuit 52. For example, but not limiting of, the first ECU28A may be configured to receive information from the second ECU 28B and/or the control circuit 52 indicating whether the support assembly 22 is front-facing or rear-facing.
In an embodiment, the control circuit 52 may include a switch/relay assembly 60. The relay assembly 60 may be configured to connect the appropriate support assembly terminals 22A, 22B to the power source 26. For example, but not limiting of, the relay assembly 60 may be configured to connect the correct terminal (correct terminal)26A, 26B of the power source 26 to the appropriate support assembly terminal 22A, 22B (e.g., such that the first terminal 22A of the support assembly 22 is connected to the first terminal 26A of the power source 26 and the second terminal 22B is connected to the second terminal 26B of the power source 26, regardless of the orientation of the support assembly 22). The relay assembly 60 may include one or more relays (e.g., relays 62, 64) and/or one or more diodes (e.g., diode 74). For example, but not limiting of, the one or more relays may include one or more electromechanical relays and/or one or more solid state relays. The relay assembly 60 may automatically connect the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26 to the positive terminal 22A of the support assembly 22 when the support member 30 is connected to the rail 40. Additionally or alternatively, the relay assembly 60 may automatically connect the negative (e.g., ground) terminal 26B of the power source 26 to the negative terminal 22B of the support assembly 22. The relay assembly 60 may be at least partially disposed in the support member 30 and/or in the seat 30A.
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 3A, 3B, and 3C, the control circuit 52 (e.g., the relay assembly 60) may be configured to automatically connect the power source 26 to the correct terminal 22A, 22B of the support assembly 22 regardless of the orientation of the support assembly 22. The relay assembly 60 may include a first relay 62, a second relay 64, a first diode 66, and/or a second diode 68. The first relay 62 and/or the second relay 64 may include a first contact 621、641A second contact 622、642 Third contact 623、643 Fourth contact 624、644And/or fifth contact 625、645. The relays 62, 64 may be configured to selectively couple the first contacts 621、641And a second contact 622、642Or third contact 623、643And (6) electrically connecting.
In an embodiment, the first relay 62 may be connected to a first diode 66, and/or the second relay 64 may be connected to a second diode 68. First relay 62 (e.g., first contact 62)1) Can be connected to the support component 22The pole terminal 22A, and/or the second relay 64 (e.g., the first contact 64)1) May be connected to the negative terminal 22B (e.g., ground terminal) of the support member 22. The first relay 62 and/or the second relay 64 may include a first coil 70 and/or a second coil 72, respectively. The coils 70, 72 may be connected to the fourth contacts 62 of the first relay 62 and the second relay 64, respectively4、644And a fifth contact 625、645In the meantime. The first diode 66 may be connected to the fifth contact 62 of the first relay 625. First diode 66 may allow current to flow into fifth contact 625And/or may limit current flow out of the fifth contact 625. The second diode 68 may be connected to the fifth contact 64 of the second relay 645. The second diode 68 may allow current to flow into the fifth contact 645And/or may limit current flow out of the fifth contact 645. Second contact 62 of first relay 622A fourth contact 62 connectable to the first relay 624A second contact 64 of the second relay 642A second diode 68, and/or a second conductor 36B. Third contact 62 of first relay 623A fourth contact 64 connectable to a first diode 66, a second relay 644A third contact 64 of the second relay 643 First conductor 36A, and/or second ECU 28B (e.g., outputting support assembly position information).
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 3A, the relay assembly 60 may include a first state (e.g., an initial state). When the relay assembly 60 is in the first state, the support assembly 22 may not be connected to the track assembly 38, and/or the support assembly 22 may not be connected to the power source 26. In a first state of the relay assembly 60, the first contact 62 of the first relay 621Can be connected to the second contact 622And/or the first contact 64 of the second relay 641Can be connected to the second contact 642. Additionally or alternatively, in the first state of the relay assembly 60, the first and/or second conductors 36A, 36B may not be connected to the first and/or second bus bars 50A, 50B.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 3B, the relay assembly 60 may include a second state that may correspond to the support assembly 22 being disposed in the first/forward facing orientation and connected to the track assembly 38. When the relay assembly 60 is in the second state, the support assembly 22 may be connected to the rail 40, and/or the support assembly 22 may be connected to the power source 26, such as through a first conductor 36A that may be connected to a first bus bar 50A (which may be connected to the positive terminal 26A) and/or through a second conductor 36B that may be connected to a second bus bar 50B (which may be connected to the negative terminal 26B).
According to an embodiment, connecting the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26 to the first conductor 36A may cause the first coil 70 to be activated (e.g., energized), which may activate the first contact 62 of the first relay 621Is connected to the third contact 623Rather than the second contact 622. Current may flow from the positive terminal 26A to the first bus bar 50A, to the first conductor 36A, through the first relay 62, and/or to the positive terminal 22A of the support assembly 22. The second coil 72 may not be energized and/or the second diode 68 may prevent the second coil 72 from being energized when the first coil 70 is energized. In the second state, the first contact 64 of the second relay 641And a second contact 642The connection may be maintained. For example, but not limiting of, current may flow from the negative terminal 22B to the first contact 641To the second contact 642To the second conductor 36B, to the second bus bar 50B and/or to the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 3C, the relay assembly 60 may include a third state, which may correspond to the support assembly 22 being disposed in a rearward facing orientation. When the relay assembly 60 is in the third state, the support assembly 22 may be connected to the track 40, and/or the support assembly 22 may be connected to the power source 26. When the relay assembly 60 is in the third state, the first bus bar 50A may be connected to the second conductor 36B, which may connect the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26 to the second conductor 36B. Additionally or alternatively, in the third state of the relay assembly 60, the second bus bar 50B may be connected to the first conductor 36A, which may connect the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26 to the first conductor 36A.
According to an embodiment, connecting the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26 to the second conductor 36B may cause the second coil 72 to be activated (e.g., energized), which may activate the first contact 64 of the second relay 641Is connected to the third contact 643Rather than the second contact 642. Current may flow from the positive terminal 26A to the first bus bar 50A, to the second conductor 36B, through the first relay 62, and/or to the positive terminal 22A of the support assembly 22. The first coil 70 may not be energized and/or the first diode 66 may prevent the first coil 70 from being energized when the second coil 72 is energized. The second bus bar 50B may be connected to the third contact 64 of the second relay 643And/or may be connected to the first contact 64 of the second relay 641So as to be connected to the negative terminal 22B of the support member 22.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 4A and 4B, the control circuit 52 (e.g., the relay assembly 60) may be configured to automatically connect the power source 26 to the correct terminal 22A, 22B of the support assembly 22, regardless of orientation. The relay assembly 60 may include a first relay 62, a second relay 64, and or a diode 74. The first relay 62 and/or the second relay 64 may be connected to a diode 74. First relay 62 (e.g., first contact 62)1) May be connected to the positive terminal 22A of the support member 22, and/or the second contact 64 of the second relay 642May be connected to the negative terminal 22B of the support member 22. The diode 74 may be connected to the fifth contact 62 of the first relay 625And a fifth contact 64 of the second relay 645. The diode 74 may allow current to flow from the second conductor 36B to the fifth contact 62 of the relays 62, 645、645(and from the fifth contact 625、645To the fourth contact 624、644) And/or current may be limited from the fifth contact 625、645To the second conductor 36B (e.g., to prevent energizing the coils 70, 72 in the first orientation). Second contact 62 of first relay 622A fourth contact 62 connectable to the first conductor 36A, the first relay 624And a second relayFourth contact 64 of device 644A third contact 64 of the second relay 643And/or second ECU 28B (e.g., outputting seat position or other information). Third contact 62 of first relay 623A second contact 64 connectable to the second conductor 36B, the diode 74, and/or the second relay 642。
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 4A, the relay assembly 60 may include a first state, which may correspond to the support assembly 22 being disposed in a first/forward facing orientation. When the relay assembly 60 is in the first state, the support assembly 22 may be connected to the track 40, and/or the support assembly 22 may be connected to the power source 26. When the relay assembly 60 is in the first state, the first bus bar 50A may be connected to the first conductor 36A, which may connect the first conductor 36A with the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26. Additionally or alternatively, in the first state of the relay assembly 60, the second bus bar 50B may be connected to the second conductor 36B, which may connect the second conductor 36B with the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26.
In an embodiment, connecting the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26 to the first conductor 36A may not cause the first coil 70 and/or the second coil 72 to be activated (e.g., energized). First contacts 62 of relays 62, 641、641May remain connected to the second contact 622、642. Current may flow from the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26 to the first bus bar 50A, to the first conductor 36A, through the first relay 62, and/or to the positive terminal 22A of the support assembly 22. The first coil 70 and/or the second coil 72 may not be energized, and/or the diode 74 may prevent the first coil 70 and/or the second coil 72 from being energized when the support assembly 22 is in the forward facing orientation. The second bus bar 50B may be connected to the second contact 64 of the second relay 64 by the second conductor 36B2And/or may be connected to a first contact 64 of a second relay 641To connect the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26 to the negative terminal 22B of the support assembly 22.
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 4B, the relay assembly 60 may include a second state, which may correspond to the support assembly 22 being disposed in a second/rearward facing orientation. When the relay assembly 60 is in the second state, the support assembly 22 may be connected to the track 40, and/or the support assembly 22 may be connected to the power source 26. When the relay assembly 60 is in the second state, the first bus bar 50A may be connected to the second conductor 36B, which may connect the second conductor 36B with the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26. Additionally or alternatively, in the second state of the relay assembly 60, the second bus bar 50B may be connected to the first conductor 36A, which may connect the first conductor 36A to the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26.
In an embodiment, connecting the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26 to the second conductor 36B may cause the first coil 70 and/or the second coil 72 to be triggered (e.g., tripped/energized), which may activate the first contact 62 of the relays 62, 641、641Is connected to the third contact 623、643Rather than the second contact 622、642. Current may flow from the positive terminal 26A to the first bus bar 50A, to the second conductor 36B, through the first relay 62, and/or to the positive terminal 22A of the support assembly 22. The diode 74 may prevent current from flowing through the second relay 64 to the negative terminal 22B of the support member 22. The second bus bar 50B (e.g., ground) may be connected to the third contact 64 of the second relay 643Third contact 643A first contact 64 connectable to a second relay 641(first contact 64)1May be connected to the negative terminal 22B of the support member 22).
According to an embodiment, the control circuit 52 (e.g., the relay assembly 60) may include a first relay 62, a second relay 64, a third relay 76, a first diode 74, and/or a second diode 78 (e.g., a pulse diode), such as generally illustrated in fig. 5A and 5B. The third relay 76 may include a first contact 761 Second contact 762A third contact 763 Fourth contact 764And/or fifth contact 765. The third relay 76 may include a fourth contact 76 that may be connected4And a fifth contact 765 Third coil 76A in between. When the third coil 76A is not energized, the first contact 761Can be connected to the second contact 762 Second contact 762May be configured as an open contact, and/or first contact 76 may be energized when third coil 76A is energized1Can be connected to the third contact 763. First contact 76 of third relay 761May be connected to the positive terminal 22A of the support member 22. Fourth contact 76 of third relay 764A first contact 64 connectable to a second relay 641And/or a negative terminal 22B (e.g., a ground terminal) of the support assembly 22. A pulse diode 78 may be connected to the third contact 76 of the third relay 763A fifth contact 76 of a third relay 765And/or the first contact 62 of the first relay 621. The pulse diode 78 may be configured to allow current to flow into the fifth contact 76 of the third relay 765And/or may limit or prevent current flow from the fifth contact 765Out (e.g., to prevent energizing the coils 70, 72 in the first orientation). First contact 62 of first relay 621A third contact 76 connectable to a third relay 763。
In an embodiment, the third relay 76 and/or the pulse diode 78 of the relay assembly 60 may isolate the first relay 62 and/or the second relay 64 during switching (e.g., coil energization). Switching the polarity of the contacts at the first conductor 36A and/or the second conductor 36B may cause a reverse battery pulse. The pulse diode 78 and/or the third relay 76 switching delay may limit the reverse battery pulse from affecting the support assembly 22 (e.g., the internal circuitry of the support assembly 22, the second ECU 28B, and/or the electrical component 22C that may be connected to the support assembly 22).
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 5A, the relay assembly 60 may include a first state, which may correspond to the support assembly 22 being disposed in a first/forward facing orientation. When the relay assembly 60 is in the first state, the support assembly 22 may be connected to the track 40, and/or the support assembly 22 may be connected to the power source 26. When the relay assembly 60 is in the first state, the first bus bar 50A may be connected to the first conductor 36A, which may connect the first conductor 36A with the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26. Additionally or alternatively, in the first state of the relay assembly 60, the second bus bar 50B may be connected to the second conductor 36B, which may connect the second conductor 36B with the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26.
According to an embodiment, connecting the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26 to the first conductor 36A may not cause the first coil 70 and/or the second coil 72 to be activated (e.g., energized). First contacts 62 of relays 62, 641、641May remain connected to the second contact 622、642. Connecting the positive terminal 22A to the first conductor 36A may cause the third coil 76A to be energized. For example, but not limiting of, current may flow from the positive terminal 26A to the first bus bar 50A, to the first conductor 36A, to the first contact 62 of the first relay 621To the pulse diode 78 and to the fifth contact 76 of the third relay 765And to the third coil 76A, which may energize the third coil 76A. Energizing the third coil 76A may cause the first contact 76 of the third relay 76 to1And a second contact 762Is opened and connected to the third contact 763This may connect the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26 to the positive terminal 22A of the support assembly 22.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 5B, the relay assembly 60 may include a second state, which may correspond to the support assembly 22 being disposed in a second/rearward facing orientation. When the relay assembly 60 is in the second state, the support assembly 22 may be connected to the track assembly 38, and/or the support assembly 22 may be connected to the power source 26. When the relay assembly 60 is in the second state, the first bus bar 50A may be connected to the second conductor 36B, which may connect the second conductor 36B with the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26. Additionally or alternatively, in the second state of the relay assembly 60, the second bus bar 50B may be connected to the first conductor 36A, which may connect the first conductor 36A to the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26.
According to an embodiment, connecting the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26 to the second conductor 36B may cause the first coil 70 and/or the second coil 72 to be activated (e.g., energized). First contacts 62 of first relay 62 and second relay 641、641Can be connected with the second contact 622、642Open, and/or connectable to the third contact 623、643. Current may flow from the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26, to the first bus bar 50A, to the second conductor 36B, to the third contact 62 of the first relay 623To the first contact 62 of the first relay 621To the third contact 76 of the third relay 763And/or to a pulse diode 78, which may energize the third coil 76A. Energizing the third coil 76A may cause the first contact 76 of the third relay 76 to1And a second contact 762Is opened and connected to the third contact 763This may connect the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26 to the positive terminal 22A of the support assembly 22 by a second conductor 36B.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 6A and 6B, the control circuit 52 may include a diode assembly 80. Diode assembly 80 may include a diode (e.g., diode 82)1、822、823、824) And may or may not include electromechanical components such as relays and/or switches. The diode assembly 80 may be configured to connect the correct terminal 26A, 26B of the power source 26 to the appropriate support assembly terminal 22A, 22B (e.g., such that the first terminal 22A of the support assembly 22 is connected to the first terminal 26A of the power source 26 and the second terminal 22B is connected to the second terminal 26B of the power source 26 regardless of the orientation of the support assembly 22). Diode assembly 80 may include a first diode 821A second diode 822A third diode 823And/or fourth diode 824. First diode 821A second diode 822A third diode 823And a fourth diode 824May be connected as a bridge circuit. First conductor 36A may be connected to first diode 821And a second diode 822In the meantime. Second conductor 36B may be connected to third diode 823And a fourth diode 824In the meantime. The diode assembly 80 may include and/or be connected to one or more other passive electrical components (e.g., additional diodes or other components))。
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 6A, if the support assembly 22 is in a first/forward orientation, the first conductor 36A may be connected to the first bus bar 50A and the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26, and/or the second conductor 36B may be connected to the second bus bar 50B and the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26. Current may flow from positive terminal 26A to first bus bar 50A, to first conductor 36A, through first diode 821And to the first terminal 22A of the support assembly 22. In the first orientation, the second diode 822And/or third diode 823Current may be prevented from flowing from the positive terminal 26A to the second terminal 22B of the support member 22. In the first orientation, current may pass from the second terminal 22B of the support assembly 22 through the fourth diode 824To the second conductor 36B, the second bus bar 50B, and/or the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 6B, if the support assembly 22 is in a second/rearward orientation, the first conductor 36A may be connected to the second bus bar 50B and the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26, and/or the second conductor 36B may be connected to the first bus bar 50A and the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26. Current may flow from positive terminal 26A to first bus bar 50A, to second conductor 36B, through third diode 823And to the first terminal 22A of the support assembly 22. In the second orientation, the first diode 821And/or fourth diode 824Current may be prevented from flowing from the positive terminal 26A to the second terminal 22B of the support member 22. In the second orientation, current may pass from the second terminal 22B of the support assembly 22 through the second diode 822To the first conductor 36A, the second bus bar 50B, and/or the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26.
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 7A and 7B, the control circuit 52 may include a switch assembly 90. The switch assembly 90 may be configured to connect the power source 26 to the support assembly 22 with the correct polarity regardless of the orientation of the support assembly 22. For example, but not limiting of, the switch assembly 90 may be configured to connect the correct terminal 26A, 26B of the power source 26 to the appropriate support assembly terminal 22A, 22B (e.g., such that the first terminal 22A of the support assembly 22 is connected to the first terminal 26A of the power source 26 and the second terminal 22B is connected to the second terminal 26B of the power source 26, regardless of the orientation of the support assembly 22).
According to embodiments, the switches of the switch assembly 90 may include one or more of a variety of configurations. The switch assembly 90 may include a switch (e.g., the switch assembly 90 may or may not include electromechanical components, such as an electromechanical relay). For example, but not limiting of, the switch assembly 90 may include a first switch 921A second switch 922A third switch 923And/or fourth switch 924Which may include silicon-based switches, transistors and/or metal oxide field effect transistors (MOSFETs), among other configurations. First switch 921May be connected to the first driver 941A second switch 922Can be connected to a second driver 942A third switch 923May be connected to a third driver 943And/or a fourth switch 924May be connected to the fourth driver 944. First switch 921A second switch 922A third switch 923And a fourth switch 924May be connected as a bridge circuit. Driver 941、942、943、944May be configured to activate the switches 92 individually1、922、923、924. Driver 941、942、943、944Power may not be delivered, but a switch 92 may be provided1、922、923、924Such that the switch 92 is turned on1、922、923、924Can be selectively opened. The first conductor 36A may be connected to a first switch 921And a second switch 922In the meantime. Second conductor 36B may be connected to third switch 923And a fourth switch 924In the meantime. The switch assembly 90 may include and/or be connected to one or more other passive electrical components (e.g., additional switches, one or more diodes, etc.).
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in figure 7A,if the support assembly 22 is in the first/forward orientation, the first conductor 36A may be connected to the first bus bar 50A and the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26, and/or the second conductor 36B may be connected to the second bus bar 50B and the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26. Current may flow from the positive terminal 26A to the first bus bar 50A, to the first conductor 36A, and to the first switch 921And a first driver 941. First driver 941The first switch 92 may be activated1To allow current to flow to the first terminal 22A of the support member 22. In the first orientation, the second switch 922And/or a third switch 923May not be activated and may prevent current from flowing from the positive terminal 26A to the second terminal 22B of the support member 22. In the first orientation, current may flow from the second terminal 22B of the support member 22 to the fourth switch 924And a fourth driver 944. Fourth driver 944The fourth switch 92 may be activated4To allow current to flow from the fourth switch 924To the negative terminal 26B of the power supply 26.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 7B, if the support assembly 22 is in a second/rearward orientation, the first conductor 36A may be connected to the second bus bar 50B and the negative terminal 26B of the power source 26, and/or the second conductor 36B may be connected to the first bus bar 50A and the positive terminal 26A of the power source 26. Current may flow from the positive terminal 26A to the first bus bar 50A, to the second conductor 36B, and to the third switch 923And a third driver 943. Third driver 943The third switch 92 may be activated3To allow current to flow to the first terminal 22A of the support member 22. In the second orientation, the first switch 921And/or a fourth switch 924May not be activated and may prevent current from flowing from the positive terminal 26A to the second terminal 22B of the support member 22. In the second orientation, current may flow from the second terminal 22B of the support assembly 22 to the second switch 922And a second driver 942. Second driver 942The second switch 92 may be activated2To allow current to flow to first conductor 36A, second bus bar 50B, and/or negative terminal 26B of power source 26.
According to an embodiment, the switches and drivers (e.g., switch 92) of the switch assembly 901、922、923、924And driver 941、942、943、944) May be configured to activate automatically (e.g., independently of any separate controller, such as ECUs 28A, 28B). The driver may automatically activate the switch if the correct polarity is provided to the switch and driver. The driver may not activate the switch if the switch and driver are provided with opposite polarities. For example, but not limited to, switch 921、922、923、924May be connected in a bridge configuration.
In an embodiment, the control circuit 52, diode assembly 80, and/or switch assembly 90 may include at least four electrical components (e.g., non-electromechanical components) configured to connect the correct terminal 26A, 26B of the power source 26 to the appropriate support assembly terminal 22A, 22B regardless of the orientation of the support assembly 22.
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 7C and 7D, the first driver 941A second driver 942A third driver 943And a fourth driver 944Any number of drivers may be combined to control switch 921、922、923、924(for example, see fig. 7C for two drivers and fig. 7D for one driver). For example, but not limited to, the first driver 941A second driver 942A third driver 943And a fourth driver 944Can be combined into a first driver 961And a second driver 962(see, e.g., FIG. 7C). First driver 961May be connected to the first switch 921And a second switch 922. Second driver 962May be connected to a third switch 923And a fourth switch 924. First driver 961May be configured to control/activate the first switch 921And a second switch 922. Second driver 962May be configured to control/activate the third switch 923And a fourth switch 924. In an embodiment, the control circuit 52 may include a single driver 98, and the single driver 98 may be configured to control/activate the first switch 921A second switch 922A third switch 923And a fourth switch 924(see, e.g., FIG. 7D). Driver 98 may be connected to switch 921、922、923、924Each of which.
Embodiments of control circuit 52, such as the five embodiments illustrated in fig. 3A-3C, 4A and 4B, 5A and 5B, 6A and 6B, and 7A-7D, may include various advantages and/or potential disadvantages. For example, without limitation, the embodiments of fig. 3A-3C may include a compact configuration, may involve moderate cost, and may involve relatively low voltage drops, but may experience a shortened relay life cycle (e.g., each maneuver of the support assembly 22 may actuate the relay) and/or may involve increased noise from the relays 62, 64. For example, but not limiting of, the embodiment of fig. 4A and 4B may incorporate low cost, relatively low voltage drop, relatively long relay life cycle/minimal relay noise (e.g., the relay may only be actuated when the support member 22 is disposed in the second orientation), but may experience a reverse pulse from the power source 26 during initial connection of the support member 30 with the track assembly 38. For example, and without limitation, the embodiment of fig. 5A and 5B may not include a reverse pulse from the power source 26, but may include higher cost, a higher voltage drop, and/or may experience a shorter life cycle of the third relay 76, which third relay 76 may actuate for each maneuver of the support assembly 22. For example, but not limiting of, the embodiment of fig. 6A and 6B may incorporate a high cost, a relatively high voltage drop, a relatively long diode life (e.g., longer than the expected life of the vehicle), noiseless, and compact control circuit 52. For example, and without limitation, the embodiments of fig. 7A-7D may include high cost, relatively low voltage drop, minimal power waste, longer circuit life (e.g., longer than the expected life of the vehicle), low or substantially no noise, and/or compact control circuitry 52.
In embodiments, the electrical assembly 20 may be configured to avoid reverse polarity conduction, provide power to the support assembly 22 in the second/rear-facing configuration, and/or provide digital monitoring of the position of the support assembly 22.
According to an embodiment, the control circuit 52 may operate automatically, such as independently of the ECUs 28A, 28B. For example, and without limitation, the control circuit 52 (e.g., the relay assembly 60) may switch between states (e.g., in the first state, the second state, and/or the third state) without being controlled by the ECUs 28A, 28B. One or both of the ECUs 28A, 28B may be connected to the control circuit 52, and this connection may be a passive/supervisory connection. The control circuit 52 may be configured as a passive component and may not contain a capacitor or an internal energy storage.
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 8-19, it may be desirable to limit or eliminate the involvement of an ECU (e.g., ECU 28) when providing/ensuring a suitable electrical connection (e.g., with the correct polarity) between the rail and the support member and/or between the power source 190 and the load 160. For example, without limitation, limiting or eliminating participation of the ECU may reduce complexity and/or power consumption.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 8-10, the electrical track assembly 120 may include a pair of tracks 122 and one or more support members, such as a first support member 124 and/or a second support member 124'. One or more support members 124, 124' may be configured to selectively connect with, remove from, and/or move along the pair of rails 122, such as in one or more configurations. For example, but not limiting of, the one or more support members 124 may be configured to selectively connect with, remove from, and/or move along the pair of rails 122 in a first configuration (e.g., facing in a first direction, such as forward-see first support member 124 in fig. 8 and 9) and a second configuration (e.g., facing in a second direction, such as rearward-see second support member 124' in fig. 8 and first support member 124 in fig. 10). The support members 124, 124' may be connected to the pair of rails 122, for example, in a first configuration, moved along the rails 122 while in the first configuration, removed from the pair of rails 122 while in the first configuration, and then connected with the rails 122 while in the second configuration.
According to an embodiment, the pair of rails/tracks 122 may include a first rail/track 130 and a second rail/track 132, which may be disposed parallel to one another, such as on a mounting surface 140 (e.g., a floor of the vehicle 100), and may be offset from one another, such as in a Y-direction (e.g., a lateral direction). The pair of rails 122 may be individually connected (e.g., fixed) to the mounting surface 140. The mounting surface 140 may include a first side 142 (e.g., a left side), a second side 144 (e.g., a right side), a first end 146 (e.g., a front end), and/or a second end 148 (e.g., a back end). The support members 124, 124' may be configured to connect with both the first and second rails 130, 132 when connected in the first or second configuration. For example, but not limited to, the support member 124, 124 'may include a first connection portion 150, the first connection portion 150 may be configured to connect with the first rail 130 in the first configuration and the second rail 132 in the second configuration, and/or the support member 124, 124' may include a second connection portion 152, the second connection portion 152 may be configured to connect with the second rail 132 in the first configuration and the first rail 130 in the second configuration. The rails 130, 132 may include a generally U-shaped configuration that may open upwardly (e.g., in the Z-direction), and the connecting portions 150, 152 may extend into the rails 130, 132 and/or engage the rails 130, 132.
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 8-10, the support members 124, 124' may include an electrical load 160. For example, but not limiting of, the electrical load 160 may include one or more of an electronic controller, an electric motor, a heater, a fan, a fluid bladder, and/or a pump, among others. The first track 130 may include a first conductor 170 and/or the second track 132 may include a second conductor 172, the first conductor 170 and the second conductor 172 may be configured to provide power to the electrical load 160 when the support member 124, 124' is connected with the track 130, 132. The first conductor 170 and/or the second conductor 172 may include a conductive material that may extend along some, most, or all of the respective rails 130, 132 and/or may be configured as a bus bar. The conductors 170, 172 may be connected to (e.g., attached to) and/or at least partially disposed in a wall (e.g., a substantially vertical wall) of the respective track 130, 132.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 9 and 10, the support member 124, 124 'may include one or more electrical contacts, such as a first support member contact 174 and/or a second support member contact 176, which may be configured to provide an electrical connection between the support member 124, 124' and the conductor 170, 172. The first support member contact 174 may be configured to move (e.g., rotate) into and out of contact with the first conductor 170 and/or the second conductor 172. The second support member contact 176 may be configured to move (e.g., rotate) into and out of contact with the first conductor 170 and/or the second conductor 172. Movement of the support member contacts 174, 176 may be performed, for example, manually (e.g., by a user), mechanically (e.g., by one or more levers (lever), sliders, linkages, etc., when connected with the rails 130, 132), and/or electromechanically (e.g., by an electric motor).
According to an embodiment, the support members 124, 124' may include a switch assembly 180 (e.g., a manual switch assembly), which switch assembly 180 may selectively electrically connect the electrical load 160 with the conductors 170, 172, such as through the support member contacts 174, 176. The electrical load 160 may include a first load contact 162 and/or a second load contact 164. The first load contact 162 may, for example, comprise a positive contact. The second load contact 164 may, for example, comprise a negative contact. The first conductor 170 may be a positive conductor that may be connected to a positive power contact 192 of the power source 190. The second conductor 172 may be a negative conductor that may be connected to a negative power contact 194 of the power source 190. For example, but not limiting of, the power source 190 may include a battery and/or a generator, and the like.
In an embodiment, the switch assembly 180 may be configured to connect the first load contact 162 with the first conductor 170 and the second load contact 164 with the second conductor 172, such as regardless of the configuration of the support members 124, 124'. The electrical track assembly 120 and/or the switch assembly 180 may be configured to prevent current flow between the first load contact 162 and the second conductor 172, and/or to prevent current flow between the second load contact 164 and the first conductor 170 (e.g., to prevent reverse polarity connection).
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 12-14, the switch assembly 180 may be configured to move between a first position (e.g., see the switch assembly 180 of the support member 124 in fig. 12), a second position (e.g., see the switch assembly 180 of the support member 124' in fig. 12), and/or a third position (e.g., see the switch assembly 180 in fig. 14). The first position may correspond to a first support member contact 174 disposed proximate the first side 124A of the support member 124, 124 'and a second support member contact 176 disposed proximate the second side 124B of the support member 124, 124'. The second position may correspond to the first support member contact 174 being disposed near the second side 124B of the support member 124, 124 'and the second support member contact 176 being disposed at the first side 124A of the support member 124, 124'. The third position may correspond to a neutral position in which the first and second support member contacts 174, 176 may be disposed about the middle of the support members 124, 124'. The first and second support member contacts 174, 176 may move with the switch assembly 180 to move to the first, second, and/or third positions (e.g., may be manually operated by actuation of the switch assembly 180).
In an embodiment, the switch assembly 180 may be configured to move (e.g., by a user) from a disengaged position (e.g., a third/neutral position) in which the support members 124, 124 'are not electrically connected with the first and second conductors 170, 172 to an engaged position (e.g., the first and/or second positions) in which the support members 124, 124' are electrically connected with the first and second conductors 170, 172, and vice versa. For example, but not limiting of, if switched/actuated as appropriate, contact between the support member contacts 174, 176 and the conductors 170, 172 may (e.g., immediately) provide electrical connection and/or power to the electrical load 160.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 12, if the support member 124 is connected with a rail in the first configuration, the first side 124A of the support member 124 may be disposed adjacent the first rail 130 and the second side 124B of the support member 124 may be disposed adjacent the second rail 132. In the first configuration, the switch assembly 180 may be actuated (e.g., rotated) to a first position to connect the first support member contact 174 with the first conductor 170, which may provide an electrical connection from the first conductor 170 to the first load contact 162. Additionally or alternatively, actuating the switch assembly 180 to the first position when the support member 124 is in the first configuration may connect the second support member contact 176 with the second conductor 172, which may provide an electrical connection between the second conductor 172 and the second load contact 164. For example, but not limiting of, actuating the switch assembly 180 to the first position when the support member 124 is in the first configuration may provide power to the electrical load 160 from the pair of rails 122 and/or the power source 190.
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 12, if the support member 124 ' is connected with the rails 130, 132 in the second configuration, the first side 124A of the support member 124 ' may be disposed adjacent the second rail 132 and the second side 124B of the support member 124 ' may be disposed adjacent the first rail 130. In the second configuration, the switch assembly 180 may be actuated (e.g., rotated by a user) to a second position to connect the first support member contact 174 with the first conductor 170, which may provide an electrical connection from the first conductor 170 to the first load contact 162. Additionally or alternatively, actuating the switch assembly 180 to the second position when the support member 124' is in the second configuration may connect the second support member contact 176 with the second conductor 172, which may provide an electrical connection between the second conductor 172 and the second load contact 164. For example, but not limiting of, actuating the switch assembly 180 to the second position when the support member 124' is in the second configuration may provide power to the electrical load 160 from the pair of rails 122 and/or the power source 190.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 12, if the support member 124, 124 'is connected with the track 130, 132 in the first configuration and the switch assembly 180 is actuated to the second position, or if the support member 124, 124' is connected with the track 130, 132 in the second configuration and the switch assembly 180 is actuated to the first position, an improper current (e.g., a reverse polarity current) may be provided that may flow between the first conductor 170 and the second load contact 164 and/or between the second conductor 172 and the first load contact 162. The electrical track assembly 120 and/or the switch assembly 180 may be configured to prevent such current flow. For example, but not limiting of, the switch assembly 180 may include a blocking element 222, such as a diode 202, which blocking element 222 may allow current to flow from the first support member contact 174 to the load 160 and to the second support member contact 176, but may prevent current from flowing from the second support member contact 176 to the load 160 and to the first support member contact 174. The diode 202 may, for example, interrupt a current path that would otherwise flow from the first conductor 170 to the second support member contact 176, to the second load contact 164, to the first load contact 162, to the first support member contact 174, to the second conductor 172.
In an embodiment, the switch assembly 180 may be configured to switch to a first switch position toward the first side 142 of the mounting surface 140 to connect the first load contact 162 with the first conductor 170 when the support members 124, 124' are in the first configuration. Additionally or alternatively, the switch assembly 180 may be configured to switch to a second switch position toward the first side 142 of the mounting surface 140 to electrically connect the first load contact 162 with the first conductor 170 when the support member 124, 124' is in the second configuration. For example, but not limiting of, the switch assembly 180 may be actuated toward the first side 142 to provide a suitable electrical connection regardless of the configuration of the support members 124, 124'. A label 200 (or other indicia) may be disposed adjacent the switch assembly 180 to indicate that the switch assembly 180 (and/or the first support member contact 174) should be actuated toward the first side 142. If the switch assembly 180 is actuated toward the second side 144, power may not be provided to the electrical load 160.
According to an embodiment, the switch assembly 180 may include an indicator circuit 210, such as generally illustrated in fig. 12-14. The indicator circuit 210 may be configured to provide an indication to a user as to whether the switch assembly 180 has been properly actuated. The indication may comprise a visual indication and/or an audible indication, etc. The indicator circuit 210 may, for example, include a first Light Emitting Diode (LED)212 and/or a second LED 214. The first LED 212 and the second LED 214 may be disposed in parallel with each other and/or with the diode 202 and the load 160 such that the diode 202 does not prevent current flow to the LEDs 212, 214 and the indicator circuit 210 does not provide power to the load 160. The first LED 212 may be disposed to allow current to flow from the first support member contact 174 to the second support member contact 176, and in the presence of such current, may provide a first light (e.g., green light) that may indicate proper actuation of the switch assembly 180 (e.g., see fig. 12). The second LED 214 may be disposed to allow current to flow from the second support member contact 176 to the first support member contact 174, and in the presence of such current, may provide a second light (e.g., red light) that may indicate improper actuation of the switch assembly 180 (e.g., see fig. 13). The indicator circuit 210 may include a resistor 216 upstream of the first LED 212 and downstream of the second LED 214. The indicator circuit 210 may move with the switch assembly 180 to the first position, the second position, and/or the third position.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 15 and 16, the electrical track assembly 120 may include a switch assembly 280, the switch assembly 280 may include a switch 282 (e.g., a manual electrical switch), and the switch 282 may be connected (e.g., electrically connected) to the first and second support member contacts 174, 176. The manual electrical switch 282 may selectively connect the first support member contact 174 with the first load contact 162 and the second support member contact 176 with the second load contact 164. The manual electrical switch 282 may include a first switch contact 2841Second switch contact 2842A third switch contact 2843 Fourth switch contact 2844 Fifth switch contact 2845And/or sixth switch contact 2846. First switch contact 2841May be connected (e.g., permanently, electrically connected) to the fourth switch contact 2844. Second switch contact 2842Can be connected (e.g., permanently, electrically connected) to the fifth switch contact 2845. Third switch contact 2843Can be connected (e.g., permanently, electrically connected) to the sixth switch contact 2846. Fourth switch contact 2844And a sixth switch contact 2846May be connected (e.g., permanently, electrically connected) together and/or to the first load contact 162 of the electrical load 160. Fifth switch contact 2845May be connected (e.g., permanently, electrically connected) to the second load contact 164 of the electrical load 160.
According to an embodiment, the manual electric switch 282 is movable between a first position (see, e.g., fig. 15) and a second position (see, e.g., fig. 16). In the first position of the switch 282, the first switch contact 2841May be connected to the first support member contact 174 and the second switch contact 2842May be connected to the second support member contact 176, and/or the third switch contact 2843Can be disconnected. If the support member 124, 124' is in the first configuration and the switch 282 is in the first position (see, e.g., the switch 282 of the support member 124 of fig. 15), the switch 282 may provide an electrical connection from the first conductor 170 to the first load contact 162 and an electrical connection from the second load contact 164 to the second conductor 172, which may provide power to the electrical load 160. In the second position of the switch 282, the second switch contact 2842Can be electrically connected to the first support member contact 174, the third switch contact 2843May be electrically connected to the second support member contact 176 and the first switch contact 2841Can be disconnected. If the support member 124, 124 'is in the second configuration and the switch 282 is in the second position (see, e.g., the switch 282 of the support member 124' of fig. 16), the switch 282 may provide an electrical connection from the first conductor 170 to the first load contact 162 (e.g., through the second support member contact 176, the third switch contact 284)3And a sixth switch contact 2846) And an electrical connection from the second load contact 164 to the second conductor 172 (e.g., through the fifth switch contact 284)5 Second switch contact 2842And first support member contacts 174) that may provide power to the electrical load 160. For example but not exclusivelyWithout limitation, in the first or second configuration of the support members 124, 124', the switch 282 may be actuated to provide power to the electrical load 160.
In an embodiment, if the switch 282 is in the second position when the support member 124, 124 ' is in the first configuration (e.g., see the switch 282 of the support member 124 of fig. 16), or if the switch 282 is in the first position when the support member 124, 124 ' is in the second configuration (e.g., see the switch 282 of the support member 124 ' of fig. 15), improper current flow (e.g., reverse polarity connection/flow) between the conductors 170, 172 and the electrical load 160 may result. The switch assembly 180 may be configured to prevent such improper current flow, such as by blocking element 222. The blocking element 222 may, for example, but not limited to, include an electrical blocking element, such as the first switching diode 286 and/or the second switching diode 288, and/or a mechanical blocking element, such as a stop and/or a lever. The first switching diode 286 may be connected to the fourth switching contact 2844And may be configured to allow current to flow from the fourth switch contact 2844To the first load contact 162, but prevents current from flowing from the first load contact 162 to the fourth switch contact 2844. Second switch diode 288 may be connected to sixth switch contact 2846And may be configured to allow current to flow from the sixth switch contact 2846To the first load contact 162, but prevents current flow from the first load contact 162 to the sixth switch contact 2846. For example, but not limiting of, when the switch 282 is in the first position and the support members 124, 124 'are in the second configuration, and when the switch 282 is in the second position and the support members 124, 124' are in the first configuration, the first switching diode 286 and the second switching diode 288 may interrupt the current path from the first conductor 170 to the second conductor 172, respectively.
According to an embodiment, the switch 282 of the switch assembly 280 may be configured such that the correct position of the switch 282 is near the same side of the mounting surface 140 when the support members 124, 124 'are in the first configuration and when the support members 124, 124' are in the second configuration. For example, but not limiting of, the switch 282 may be configured such that actuating the switch 282 toward the second side 144 (e.g., a left side of the vehicle) may provide power to the electrical load 160. A label 300 (or other indicia) may be disposed adjacent the switch assembly 280 to indicate that the switch 282 should be actuated toward the second side 144. If the switch 282 is actuated toward the first side 142 (e.g., the right side), power may not be provided to the electrical load 160 (e.g., may be blocked by the switch diodes 286, 288).
In an embodiment, the first rail 130 may be disposed adjacent a first side 142 of the mounting surface and the second rail 132 may be disposed adjacent a second side 144 of the mounting surface 140. The manual electrical switch 282 may be configured to switch to a first switch position toward the first side 142 when the support members 124, 124' are in the first configuration to connect (e.g., electrically connect) the first load contact 162 with the first conductor 170. Additionally or alternatively, the manual electrical switch 282 may be configured to switch to a second switch position toward the first side 142 when the support members 124, 124' are in the second configuration to connect (e.g., electrically connect) the first load contact 162 with the first conductor 170. The first switch position and the second switch position may be different and/or opposite. According to an embodiment, the switch assembly 280 may include an indicator circuit 210, such as generally described above with respect to the switch assembly 180.
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 17 and 18, the electrical track assembly 120 may include a switch assembly 380, and the switch assembly 380 may include a manual electrical switch 382. The manual electrical switch 382 may include a first switch contact 3841Second switch contact 3842A third switch contact 3843 Fourth switch contact 3844 Fifth switch contact 3845And/or a sixth switch contact 3846. First switch contact 3841And/or a sixth switch contact 3846May be connected (e.g., permanently, electrically connected) to the first support member contacts 174. Second switch contact 3842May be connected (e.g., permanently, electrically connected) to the first load contact 162 of the electrical load 160. Third switch contact 3843And/or fourth switch contact 3844Can be connected (e.g., permanently, electrically) toThe second support member contact 176. Fifth switch contact 3845May be connected (e.g., permanently, electrically connected) to the second load contact 164.
In an embodiment, the manual electrical switch 382 can include a first position (see, e.g., the switch 382 of the support member 124 in fig. 17 and 18) in which the manual electrical switch 382 can engage the first switch contact 3841And a second switch contact 3842An electrical connection, which may electrically connect the first support member contact 174 with the first load contact 162, and/or a manual electrical switch 382 may electrically connect the fourth switch contact 3844And a fifth switch contact 3845This may connect the second support member contact 176 with the second load contact 164. If the support members 124, 124' are in the first configuration and the manual electrical switch 382 is in the first position, the first support member contact 174 may be in contact with the first conductor 170 and the second support member contact 176 may be in contact with the second conductor 172, which may provide power to the electrical load 160.
In an embodiment, the manual electrical switch 382 may include a second position (e.g., see the switch 382 of the support member 124' of fig. 17 and 18) that may couple the second switch contact 3842With a third switch contact 3843A connection, which may electrically connect the second support member contact 176 with the first load contact 162, and/or a manual electrical switch 382 may electrically connect the fifth switch contact 3845And a sixth switch contact 3846Which may electrically connect the first support member contact 174 with the second load contact 164. If the support members 124, 124' are in the second configuration and the manual electrical switch 382 is in the second position, the second support member contact 176 may be in contact with the first conductor 170 and the first support member contact 174 may be in contact with the second conductor 172, which may provide power to the electrical load 160.
According to an embodiment, if the manual electrical switch 382 is in the first position when the support member 124, 124 'is in the second configuration, and/or the manual electrical switch 382 is in the second position when the support member 124, 124' is in the first configuration (e.g., is the same as the arrangement in fig. 17 and 18)The opposite arrangement) may result in improper current flow (e.g., reverse polarity). The electrical track assembly 120 and/or the switch assembly 380 may be configured to prevent such improper current flow. For example, but not limiting of, the diode 386 may be connected to the second switch contact 3842(e.g., at the second switch contact 2842And first load contact 162). Diode 386 may be configured to allow current to flow from second switch contact 3842To the first load contact 162, but prevents current from flowing from the first load contact 162 to the second switch contact 3842(e.g., to prevent reverse polarity connections).
In an embodiment, the switch 382 may include a third position (e.g., a neutral position) in which the contact 384 is in the third position1-3846Without any contacts connected together. The switch 382 may, for example, but is not limited to, comprise a double pole double throw switch.
According to an embodiment, the switch 382 of the switch assembly 380 may be configured such that the correct position of the switch 382 is near the same end of the mounting surface 140 when the support members 124, 124 'are in the first configuration and when the support members 124, 124' are in the second configuration. For example, but not limiting of, the switch 382 may be configured such that actuating the switch 382 toward the first end 146 (e.g., the front of the vehicle) may provide power to the electrical load 160 regardless of the configuration of the support members 124, 124'. A label 400 (or other indicia) may be disposed adjacent the switch assembly 380 to indicate that the switch 382 should be actuated toward the first end 146. If the switch 382 is actuated toward the second end 148, power may not be provided to the electrical load 160 (e.g., from the power source 190).
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 18, the switch assembly 380 may include an indicator circuit 390, the indicator circuit 390 may be configured in a similar manner as the indicator circuit 210 of the switch assembly 180. The indicator circuit 390 may be connected in parallel with the diode 386 and may include two LEDs 392, 394 disposed in opposite directions to provide an indication of whether the switch 382 has been actuated to the correct position. For example, when the switch 382 is actuated to the correct position (e.g., to load the first load)Contact 162 is electrically connected to first conductor 170 and second load contact 164 is electrically connected to second support member conductor 172), first LED 392 may provide green light. For example, the second LED 394 may provide red light when the switch 382 has been actuated to an incorrect position (e.g., would otherwise connect the first load contact 162 with the second conductor 172 or the second load contact 164 with the first conductor 170). The indicator circuit 390 may be connected to the second switch contact 3842 Fifth switch contact 3845And/or second load contact 164. A resistor 396 may be disposed upstream of the first LED 392 and/or downstream of the second LED 394.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 15-18, the first support member contact 174 and/or the second support member contact 176 of the support members 124, 124' may move independently of the switch assembly 380 (or not if the switch assembly 380 moves). For example, and without limitation, the first and second support member contacts 174, 176 may be movable from a disengaged position, in which the support member contacts 174, 176 do not contact the conductors 170, 172, to an engaged position, in which the support member contacts 174, 176 contact the conductors 170, 172, regardless of the position of the switch assembly 380. In the disengaged position, the support member contacts 174, 176 may, for example, be generally aligned with a longitudinal direction (e.g., the X-direction) of the rails 130, 132 and may not restrict removal of the support members 124, 124' from the rails 130, 132 (see, e.g., the dashed lines in fig. 9 and 10). In the engaged position, the support member contacts 174, 176 may, for example, be generally aligned with the lateral direction (e.g., the Y-direction) and may limit removal of the support members 124, 124' from the rails 130, 132 (e.g., may overlap portions of the rails 130, 132 in the vertical/Z direction).
According to an embodiment, the first support member contacts 174 may be configured to selectively electrically connect with the first conductors 170 when the support members 124, 124 'are connected to a pair of rails 122 in the first configuration and/or to selectively electrically connect with the second conductors 172 when the support members 124, 124' are connected with the pair of rails 122 in the second configuration. Additionally or alternatively, the second support member contacts 176 may be configured to selectively electrically connect with the second conductors 172 when the support members 124, 124 'are connected to a pair of tracks 122 in the first configuration, and/or to selectively electrically connect with the first conductors 170 when the support members 124, 124' are connected with the pair of tracks 122 in the second configuration.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 12-18, the electrical track assembly 120 may include a support member 124 and a second support member 124' (and/or additional support members). The second support member 124' may include the same or similar configuration as the support member 124, and may be configured to connect with, remove from, and move along the first and second rails 130, 132. The second support member 124 ' may include a first support member contact 174 (e.g., a third support member contact of the assembly 120), which first support member contact 174 may be configured to selectively electrically connect with the first conductor 170 when the second support member 124 ' is connected to the first track 130 and/or the second track 132 in the first configuration, and to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor 172 when the second support member 124 ' is connected with the first track 130 and/or the second track 132 in the second configuration. The second support member 124 ' may include a second support member contact 176 (e.g., a fourth support member contact of the assembly 120), which second support member contact 176 may be configured to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor 172 when the second support member 124 ' is connected to the first track 130 and/or the second track 132 in the first configuration, and to selectively electrically connect with the first conductor 170 when the second support member 124 ' is connected with the first track 130 and/or the second track 132 in the second configuration. The second support member 124' may include an electrical load 160 (e.g., a second electrical load), the electrical load 160 including first and second load contacts 162, 164 (e.g., third and fourth load contacts of the assembly 20), and/or may include a switch assembly 180, 280, 380 (e.g., a second switch assembly of the electrical track assembly 20), the switch assembly 180, 280, 380 may be configured to selectively electrically connect the first conductor 170 with the first load contact 162, the second conductor 172 with the second load contact 164, prevent current flow between the first conductor 170 and the second load contact 164, and/or prevent current flow between the second conductor 172 and the first load contact 162. The first switch assembly 180, 280, 380 of the support member 124 may comprise a first manual electrical switch 282, 382 and the (second) switch assembly 180, 280, 380 of the second support member 124 'may comprise a (second) manual electrical switch 282, 382, (the second) manual electrical switch 282, 382 being connected to the first support member contact 174, the second support member contact 176, the first load contact 162 and/or the second load contact 164 of the support member 124'. The second switch assembly 180, 280, 380 may include a second diode 202, 286, 288, 386, and the second diode 202, 286, 288, 386 may be connected to a second manual electrical switch 282, 382.
According to embodiments, the support member 124 and the second support member 124' may be configured to be connected with the pair of rails 122 simultaneously, with some or all of the following arrangements: (i) both the first support member 124 and the second support member 124 'in the first configuration, (ii) the first support member 124 in the first configuration and the second support member 124' in the second configuration, (iii) the first support member 124 in the second configuration and the second support member 124 'in the first configuration, and/or (iv) the first support member 124 and the second support member 124' in the second configuration. In some or each of such arrangements, the switch assemblies 180, 280, 380 may be configured to facilitate current flow (i) between the first load contact 162 and the first conductor 170 of the first support member 124, (ii) between the second load contact 164 and the second conductor 172 of the first support member 124, (iii) between the first load contact 162 (e.g., the third load contact) and the first conductor 170 of the second support member 124 ', and/or (iv) between the second load contact 164 (e.g., the fourth load contact) and the second conductor 172 of the second support member 124'.
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 19, the electrical rail assembly 120 may include a first pair of rails 122 and/or a second pair of rails 122'. One or more support members (e.g., support members 124, 124 ') may be connected with the first pair of rails 122 and one or more support members (e.g., support members 424, 524) may be connected to the second pair of rails 122'. One or more support members (e.g., support member 624) may be connected to one or more rails of both the first pair of rails 122 and the second pair of rails 122'. Some or all of the support members 124, 124 ', 424, 524, 624 may include respective switch assemblies 180, 280, 380, which may allow the support members to be connected with the rails 122, 122' in a variety of configurations and provide power (e.g., with appropriate polarity) to the respective electrical loads 160.
According to embodiments, the support members 124, 124', 424, 524, 624 may include, be connected to, and/or support one or more of the various components. For example, without limitation, such as generally illustrated in fig. 8 and 19, support members 124, 124', 424, 524 may include a seat 126, be connected to seat 126, and/or support seat 126, seat 126 such as a vehicle seat. Additionally or alternatively, the support member (e.g., support member 624) may include the table/console 128, be connected to the table/console 128, and/or support the table/console 128.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 11, 20, 21, and 22, the electrical track assembly 120 may include one or more asymmetric features 220, 320. The one or more asymmetric features 220, 320 may include one or more features (e.g., protrusions, rails, bars, etc.) that may be configured to help prevent improper electrical connections. For example, but not limiting of, the asymmetric feature 220 may be configured to mechanically prevent connection of the first support member contact 174 with the second conductor 172 and/or connection of the second support member contact 176 with the first conductor 170 (e.g., see fig. 11). The feature 220 may be included in the first track 130 and/or connected to the first track 130, and may limit the second support member contact 176 from moving (e.g., rotating) into engagement with the first conductor 170.
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 11, 20, 21, and 22, the support member 124, 124' and/or the switch assembly 180, 280, 380 may include a blocking element 222, 322, which blocking element 222, 322 may be configured to engage and/or detect the asymmetrical feature 220. The blocking element 222, 322 may, for example, be configured to detect/engage the asymmetrical feature 220, 320 to prevent improper electrical connection. For example, but not limiting of, the blocking element 322 may detect/engage the asymmetrical feature 220 to prevent electrical connection of the second support member contact 176 with the first conductor 170 (see, e.g., fig. 11). The blocking element 222 may be connected to the second support member contact 176 and/or engaged with the second support member contact 176 such that the blocking element 222 moves with the second support member contact 176 and contacts the feature 220 to limit movement of the second support member contact 176.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 20, 21, and 22, the blocking element 322 may be configured to limit actuation of one or more switches of the switch assembly. For example, and without limitation, the blocking element 322 of the switch assembly 380 may be configured to physically/mechanically restrict and/or prevent the switch 382 of the switch assembly 380 from actuating to a position that would result in an improper connection (e.g., reverse polarity). The blocking element 322 may include and/or be configured as a linkage that may include the first portion 324, the second portion 326, and/or the third portion 328, and/or the linkage may be configured to limit actuation of the switch assembly 380. The first portion 324 may, for example, include a lever (e.g., a rod, a bar, a tube, an elongated plate, etc.) that may extend substantially in the Z-direction (e.g., in a vertical direction). The second portion 326 may, for example, comprise a lever that may extend substantially parallel to the first portion 324 in the Z-direction and offset from the first portion 324, such as offset in the Y-direction (e.g., if the switch 382 is substantially aligned with the Y-direction, such as generally shown in fig. 20-22) and/or offset in the X-direction (e.g., if the switch 382 is substantially aligned with the X-direction).
According to an embodiment, the third portion 328 may include a lever that may be rotatably connected with the support member 124, 124', such as by a pivot 330 (pivot). The third portion 328 may rotate in a plane substantially parallel to the switch 382. For example, and without limitation, if the switch 382 is substantially aligned with the Y-direction, such as generally shown in fig. 20-22, the third portion may, for example, be configured to rotate substantially in the Y-Z plane, and if the switch 382 is substantially aligned with the X-direction, the third portion may, for example, be configured to rotate substantially in the X-Z plane.
In an embodiment, the first portion 324 may be connected (e.g., rotatably connected) at or about a first end of the third portion 328, and/or the second portion 326 may be connected (e.g., rotatably connected) at or about a second end of the third portion 328, which may be opposite the first end. The portions 324, 326, 328 may be configured such that movement (e.g., translation) of the first portion 324 in a vertical direction may cause rotation of the third portion 328, which may cause the second portion 326 to move (e.g., translate) in a substantially opposite vertical direction.
In an embodiment, the first portion 324 may include a first portion blocking position (see, e.g., fig. 20), and/or the second portion 326 may include a second portion blocking position (see, e.g., fig. 21). In the first partially blocking position, the first portion 324 can be configured to limit and/or prevent the lever 382A of the switch 382 from moving to the second switch position. For example, in the first portion blocking position, first portion 324 may be disposed adjacent lever 382A (e.g., to the left of lever 382A in fig. 20), which may limit and/or prevent movement of lever 382A to the second position (e.g., to the left in fig. 20), which may prevent improper electrical connection between load 160 and power source 190. In the first portion blocking position, the top of the first portion 324 may be disposed at a higher vertical level than the top of the second portion 326, and the second portion 326 may be in the second portion inactive position.
According to an embodiment, in the second partially blocking position, the second portion 326 may be configured to limit and/or prevent the lever 382A of the switch 382 from moving to the first switch position. For example, in the second portion blocking position, the second portion 326 may be disposed adjacent the lever 382A (e.g., to the left of the lever 382A in fig. 21), which may limit and/or prevent the lever 382A from moving to the first position (e.g., to the left in fig. 21), which may prevent an improper electrical connection between the load 160 and the power source 190. In the second portion blocking position, the top of the second portion 326 may be disposed at a higher vertical level than the top of the first portion 324, and the first portion 324 may be in the first portion inactive position.
According to an embodiment, the first portion 324 may extend from the support member 124, 124 '(e.g., downward) such that when the support member 124, 124' is disposed on the track 130, 132, the first portion 324 may extend into one of the tracks 130, 132 to detect/engage the asymmetrical feature 320 (if present). For example, if the support members 124, 124' are disposed on the rails 130, 132 such that the first connection portion 150 is connected with the first rail 130 and/or inserted into the first rail 130, the first portion 324 may extend downward into the first rail 130 and engage the asymmetrical feature 320. Engagement between the first portion 324 and the asymmetrical feature 320 may cause the first portion 324 to translate upward from the first portion inactive position into the first portion blocking position (e.g., automatically), which may result in rotation of the third portion 328 (e.g., in a clockwise direction in fig. 20), which may cause the second portion 326 to translate downward out of and into the second portion inactive position.
In an embodiment, the blocking element 322 may be biased such that the second portion 326 is biased toward the second portion blocking position and/or such that the first portion 324 is biased toward the first portion inactive position. The blocking element 322 may, for example, be biased by gravity acting on the first portion 324, the first portion 324 may be heavier than the second portion 326 and/or connected at a greater distance from the pivot 330 than the second portion 326, and/or the blocking element 322 may be biased by a biasing member (which may be included on the pivot 330 and/or connected to the pivot 330) (e.g., the pivot 330 may bias the third portion, in a counterclockwise direction in fig. 20 and in a clockwise direction in fig. 21). For example, but not limiting of, if the support members 124, 124' are disposed on the rails 130, 132 such that the first connection portion 150 is connected with the second rail 132 and/or inserted into the second rail 132 (see, e.g., fig. 21), the first portion 324 may extend downward into the first rail 132, but there may be no asymmetrical features to engage, so the blocking element 322 may remain in the same state, which may include the first portion 324 in a first portion inactive position and the second portion 326 in a second blocking position.
If first rail 130 includes asymmetric features 220, 320, second rail 132 may not include asymmetric features 220, 320, or may include different types/configurations of asymmetric features. The electrical track assembly 120 may include an inverted configuration in which the second track 132 may include the asymmetrical features 220, 320, and the blocking elements 222, 322 may detect/engage the asymmetrical features 220, 320 of the second track 132 to prevent improper electrical connection.
In some instances, it may be desirable for the electrical track assembly to be configured for connection between the support member and the track without electrical switching, such as automatic switching by the control circuit 52 or by the switch assemblies 180, 280, 380.
According to an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 23A-23C, electrical track assembly 1120 may include a first track/rail 1130, a second track/rail 1132, and/or an electrical load 1160 that may be connected to a support member 1124. The electrical rail assembly 1120 may include one or more conductors 1170, 11702、1172、11722(e.g., electrical bus bars) that may be coupled to and/or included in first rail/guide 1130 and/or second rail/guide 1132. For example, in some configurations, the first track 1130 may include the first conductors 1170 and/or the second conductors 1172, and the second track 1132 may not include conductors (see, e.g., fig. 23A and 24). As generally illustrated in fig. 24, for example, the support member 1124 may include a first set of contacts 1174, 1176 for electrically contacting the conductors 1170, 1172 when the support member 1124 is in a first orientation, while a second set of contacts 11742、11762No electrical connection may be provided. In a second orientation of the support member 1124, the second set of contacts 11742、11762May be configured to electrically contact the conductors 1170, 1172 and the first set of contacts 1174, 1176 may not provide an electrical connection. For example, in the first placeIn an orientation, the first set of contacts 1174, 1176 can be moved into electrical contact with the conductors 1170, 1172, and in a second orientation, the second set of contacts 11742、11762Can be moved into electrical contact with the conductors 1170, 1172. According to this configuration, the support member 1124 may automatically electrically connect with the conductors 1170, 1172 of the track 1130 regardless of the orientation of the support member 1124.
In other configurations, for example, the first track 1130 can include the first conductor 1170 and/or the second conductor 1172, and the second track 1132 can include additional conductors 11702Or 11722(see, for example, fig. 23B, 25, and 26). Similar to the configuration shown in fig. 24, the support member 1124 may include a first set of contacts 1174, 1176 and a second set of contacts 11742、11762The contacts may be configured such that the conductors 1170, 1172, 1170 of the tracks 1130, 1132 are2Electrical contact (see, e.g., fig. 25). In the first orientation, the first set of contacts 1174, 1176 can electrically contact the conductors 1170, 1172, respectively, of the first rail 1130 and the third contact 11742 A conductor 1170 that can contact the second track 11322. First conductor 1170 and third conductor 11702May be electrically connected to the positive contacts 192, 196 of the power source 190 and the second conductor 1172 may be electrically connected to the negative contact 194 of the power source 190.
In another configuration, the second track 1132 may include a fourth conductor 11722(e.g., instead of the third conductor 1170)2) And a second contact 1176 and a fourth contact 11762Can be configured to electrically contact the fourth conductor 1172 in the second orientation and the first orientation, respectively2(see, e.g., FIG. 26). In the first orientation, as shown in fig. 26, the third contact 11742May not be electrically connected to the conductor and in the second orientation, the first contact 1174 may not be electrically connected to the conductor.
According to other configurations, for example, the first track 1130 can include a first conductor 1170 and a second conductor 1172, and the second track 1132 can include a third conductor 11702And a fourth conductor 11722(see, e.g., fig. 23C, 27, 28A, and 28B). The power supply 190 may be connected to four conductorsBodies 1170, 1172, 11702、11722. For example, a second conductor 1172 and a fourth conductor 11722May be connected to the negative or ground contact 194 of the power supply, the first conductor 1170 may be connected to the first positive contact of the power supply 190, and/or the third conductor 11702May be connected to a second positive contact of the power supply 190. In some examples, the power source 190 may provide power having different characteristics (e.g., current, voltage, etc.) to the first and second positive contacts 192, 196, which may be utilized by the support member 1124, the electrical rail assembly 1120, and/or the vehicle 100 to determine the orientation in which the support member 1124 is disposed.
As generally illustrated in fig. 27, in some configurations, support member 1124 may include two sets of electrical contacts 1174, 1176, and 11742、11762Such that the contacts are oriented with the conductors 1170, 1172, 1170 in the orientation of the two support members 11242、11722Is electrically contacted/connected.
In another configuration, such as generally illustrated in fig. 28A and 28B, the support member 1124 can include a single set of contacts 1174, 1176 that electrically contact a first one of the conductors 1170, 1172 in a first orientation (see, e.g., fig. 28A) and a second set of conductors 1170 of a second track 1132 in a second orientation2、11722(see, e.g., FIG. 28B). In the first orientation, the third conductor 11702And a fourth conductor 11722May not be electrically connected (e.g., directly electrically connected) with the electrical contacts of the support member 1124. In the second orientation, the first conductor 1170 and the second conductor 1172 may not be electrically connected (e.g., directly electrically connected) with the electrical contacts of the support member 1124.
In an embodiment, the electrical track assembly 120 may be configured to provide electrical power to the electrical load 160 of the support member 124, 124', 424, 524, 624 through manual and/or mechanical operation of the switch assembly 180, 280, 380, such as without using an electronic controller (e.g., without the ECU 28) and/or without using an automatic control circuit (e.g., without the control circuit 52) to control or actuate any portion of the switch assembly 180, 280, 380. Such a configuration may reduce the complexity and/or power consumption of the electrical track assembly 120, such as in one or more embodiments of the electrical assembly 20, as compared to designs using electronic controllers or automated control circuitry.
In an embodiment, such as generally illustrated in fig. 29, the electrical track assembly 2120 may include a first track/rail 2130 and/or a second track/rail 2132. The first track 2130 may include first and second conductors 2170, 2172, which may be disposed in a stacked configuration (e.g., with the first conductor 2170 over the second conductor 2172) and/or may extend in the X-direction, such as along some or most of the first track 2130. The second rail 2132 may include a third conductor 21702And a fourth conductor 21722 Third conductor 21702And a fourth conductor 21722May be disposed in a stacked configuration (e.g., wherein fourth conductor 21722In the third conductor 21702Above) and/or may extend in the X-direction, such as along some or a majority of the second rail 2132. The support members 2124 can be configured to selectively connect with the rails 2130, 2132 (e.g., mechanically and electrically), move along the rails 2130, 2132, and/or be removed from the rails 2130, 2132. The support member 2124 may include a first electrical contact 2174, a second electrical contact 2176, and a third electrical contact 21742And/or fourth electrical contact 21762. In the first connection configuration, the first and second electrical contacts 2174, 2176 may move (e.g., rotate) into electrical contact with the first and second conductors 2170, 2172, respectively, and the third contact 21742And a fourth contact 21762Can be moved to contact the fourth conductor 2172 respectively2And a third conductor 21702And (4) contacting. The control circuit 2152 of the support member 2124 can be configured to ensure that the first conductor 2170 and the fourth conductor 2172 of the tracks 2130, 21322Is electrically connected to the positive contact 2162 of the electrical load 2160 and has a second conductor 2172 and a third conductor 21702Electrically connected to the negative contact 2164 of the electrical load 2160. Control circuit 2152 can be configured in the same or similar manner as control circuit 52 described above.
Various examples/embodiments are described herein for various devices, systems, and/or methods. Numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the examples/embodiments described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the examples/embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the examples/embodiments described in this specification. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the examples/embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus, it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments.
Reference throughout the specification to "an example," "in an example," "according to an example," "various embodiments," "according to an embodiment," "in an embodiment," or "an embodiment," or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example/embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases "example," "in an example," "according to an example," "in various embodiments," "according to an embodiment," "in an embodiment," or "embodiment," or the like, where appropriate, throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more examples/embodiments. Thus, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment/example may be combined, in whole or in part, with features, structures, functions, and/or characteristics of one or more other embodiments/examples without limitation, as long as such combination is not illogical or functional. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the scope thereof.
It should be understood that reference to a single element is not necessarily so limited, and may include one or more such elements. Any directional references (e.g., positive, negative, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the examples/embodiments.
References to engaging (e.g., attaching, coupling, connecting, and the like) are to be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between connected elements and relative movement between elements. Thus, reference to engagement does not necessarily mean that the two elements are directly connected/coupled and in a fixed relationship to each other. The use of "for example" in this specification is to be construed broadly and used to provide non-limiting examples of embodiments of the disclosure, and the disclosure is not limited to such examples. The use of "and" or "should be interpreted broadly (e.g., as" and/or "). For example and not by way of limitation, the use of "and" does not necessarily require all of the elements or features listed, and the use of "or" is inclusive unless such structure is illogical.
Although processes, systems, and methods may be described herein in connection with one or more steps in a particular sequence, it should be understood that the methods may be practiced with steps in a different order, with some steps being performed simultaneously, with additional steps, and/or with some described steps being omitted.
It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from the disclosure.

Claims (20)

1. An electrical track assembly comprising:
a pair of rails, the pair of rails comprising:
a first track comprising a first conductor;
a second track comprising a second conductor;
a support member configured to be connected with, removed from, and moved along the pair of rails in a first configuration and a second configuration, the support member comprising:
a first support member contact configured to selectively electrically connect with the first conductor in the first configuration and with the second conductor in the second configuration;
a second support member contact configured to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor in the first configuration and the first conductor in the second configuration;
an electrical load comprising a first load contact and a second load contact; and
a manual switch assembly configured to selectively electrically connect the first conductor with the first load contact, to selectively electrically connect the second conductor with the second load contact, and to prevent current flow (i) between the first conductor and the second load contact and (ii) between the second conductor and the first load contact, the manual switch assembly including a blocking element.
2. The electrical rail assembly of claim 1 wherein the first rail comprises a first end and a second end;
the manual switch assembly includes a manual switch electrically connected to the first support member contact, the second support member contact, the first load contact, and the second load contact;
the manual switch is configured to switch to a first switch position toward the first end to connect the first load contact with the first conductor when the support member is in the first configuration; and
the manual switch is configured to switch to a second switch position toward the first end to connect the first load contact with the first conductor when the support member is in the second configuration.
3. The electrical track assembly of claim 2 wherein the manual switch includes a third switch position in which the manual switch does not connect the first load contact with either of the first or second conductors.
4. The electrical rail assembly of claim 1 wherein the manual switch assembly comprises a double pole double throw switch.
5. The electrical track assembly of claim 1 wherein the blocking element comprises a diode configured to limit current flow between the first load contact and the second conductor.
6. The electrical track assembly of claim 1 wherein, when the support member is in the first configuration, the first support member contact is configured to move between (i) an engaged position in which the first support member contact is in contact with the first conductor and restricts removal of the support member from the first track, and (ii) a disengaged position in which the first support member contact is not in contact with the first conductor and does not restrict removal of the support member from the first track.
7. The electrical track assembly of claim 1 wherein the manual switch assembly comprises an electrical switch having a first switch position and a second switch position;
in the first switch position, the electrical switch connects the first support member contact with the first load contact; and
in the second switch position, the electrical switch connects the first support member contact with the second load contact.
8. The electrical track assembly of claim 7 wherein the manual switch assembly comprises an indicator circuit configured to provide at least one of a first visual indication and an audible indication when: (i) the electrical switch is switched to the second switch position when the support member is in the first configuration, or (ii) the electrical switch is switched to the first switch position when the support member is in the second configuration; and
the indicator circuit is configured to provide a second visual indication when (a) the electrical switch is switched to the first switch position when the support member is in the first configuration, or (b) the electrical switch is switched to the second switch position when the support member is in the second configuration.
9. The electrical track assembly of claim 8 wherein the indicator circuit comprises a pair of light emitting diodes, the pair of light emitting diodes being arranged in parallel with each other and with the diodes and/or the electrical load; and the pair of light emitting diodes are connected in opposite directions.
10. The electrical track assembly of claim 1 comprising:
a second support member configured to be connected with, removed from, and moved along the first and second rails, the second support member including:
a third support member contact configured to selectively electrically connect with the first conductor when the second support member is connected to the pair of rails in the first configuration, and
selectively electrically connect with the second conductor when the second support member is connected with the pair of rails in the second configuration;
a fourth support member contact configured to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor when the second support member is connected to the pair of rails in the first configuration and to selectively electrically connect with the first conductor when the second support member is connected to the pair of rails in the second configuration;
a second electrical load comprising a third load contact and a fourth load contact; and
a second switch assembly configured to selectively connect the first conductor with the third load contact, selectively connect the second conductor with the fourth load contact, prevent current flow between the first conductor and the fourth load contact, and prevent current flow between the second conductor and the third load contact.
11. The electrical rail assembly of claim 10, wherein the support member and the second support member are configured to simultaneously connect with the pair of rails by each of the following arrangements:
(i) the support member and the second support member in the first configuration,
(ii) the support member in the first configuration and the second support member in the second configuration,
(iii) the support member in the second configuration and the second support member in the first configuration, an
(iv) The support member and the second support member in the second configuration.
12. The electrical track assembly of claim 11 wherein, for each arrangement, the manual switch assembly is configured to facilitate current flow (a) between the first conductor and the first load contact and (b) between the first conductor and the third load contact.
13. The electrical track assembly of claim 1 wherein the manual switch assembly is connected to or includes the first and second support member contacts.
14. The electrical track assembly of claim 13 wherein the manual switch assembly is configured to move between a first switch assembly position when the support member is in the first configuration and a second switch assembly position when the support member is in the second configuration to connect the first support member contact to the first conductor and the second support member contact to the second conductor.
15. The electrical rail assembly of claim 1 wherein the first rail includes an asymmetric feature and the second rail does not include the asymmetric feature.
16. The electrical track assembly of claim 15 wherein the blocking element comprises a linkage configured to engage the asymmetrical feature and mechanically limit actuation of the manual switch assembly.
17. The electrical track assembly of claim 1 wherein the manual switch assembly is configured to be moved by a user from a disengaged position in which the support member is not electrically connected with the first and second conductors to an engaged position in which the support member is electrically connected with the first and second conductors.
18. The electrical track assembly of claim 1 wherein the first support member contact is configured to selectively electrically connect with the first conductor when the support member is connected to the pair of tracks in the first configuration and to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor when the support member is connected to the pair of tracks in the second configuration; and is
The second support member contact is configured to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor when the support member is connected to the pair of rails in the first configuration and to selectively electrically connect with the first conductor when the support member is connected to the pair of rails in the second configuration.
19. The electrical rail assembly of claim 1, wherein the first rail is disposed adjacent a first side of a mounting surface and the second rail is disposed adjacent a second side of the mounting surface;
a manual switch of the manual switch assembly is configured to switch to a first switch position toward the first side to connect the first load contact with the first conductor when the support member is in the first configuration; and
the manual switch is configured to switch to a second switch position toward the first side to connect the first load contact with the first conductor when the support member is in the second configuration.
20. A support member configured to connect with, remove from, and move along and relative to a pair of rails in first and second configurations, the support member comprising:
a first support member contact configured to selectively electrically connect with a first conductor of the pair of rails in the first configuration and a second conductor of the pair of rails in the second configuration;
a second support member contact configured to selectively electrically connect with the second conductor in the first configuration and the first conductor in the second configuration;
an electrical load comprising a first load contact and a second load contact; and
a switch assembly configured to selectively electrically connect the first conductor with the first load contact, to selectively electrically connect the second conductor with the second load contact, and to prevent current flow (i) between the first conductor and the second load contact and (ii) between the second conductor and the first load contact.
CN202111478186.8A 2020-12-09 2021-12-06 Electrical track assembly Active CN114614316B (en)

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EP0808739A2 (en) * 1996-05-20 1997-11-26 Itt Automotive Electrical Systems, Inc. Method and apparatus for driving a dual-speed electric power seat assembly
US20100327139A1 (en) * 2008-12-18 2010-12-30 Michael Wojatzki Positively Engaged Locking System for a Vehicle Seat
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