Aircraft seat with smart back support and back support apparatus

Abstract

An aircraft seat with smart back support and a back support apparatus. A smart back support apparatus, a backrest assembly, and an aircraft seat having the back support apparatus mounted thereto are disclosed herein. The back support apparatus includes: a pressure sensing device for attachment to a backrest of a seat to detect pressure received in a plurality of areas of a backrest surface of the backrest; a back support device for attachment to the backrest, the back support device configured to displace a portion of the backrest surface based on a pressure detected in at least one of the plurality of regions of the backrest surface; and a controller device connected to the pressure sensing device and the back support device, the controller device configured to control the back support device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to aircraft furniture and, more particularly, to aircraft seats having back support apparatus. Background Art

[0002] Commercial and business aircraft are designed to transport people. Designing a cabin interior that improves passenger comfort can be challenging due to the limited space available onboard the aircraft. Long-distance flights within an aircraft cabin often cause discomfort to passengers who are restrained in the aircraft seats.

[0003] Expect improvements. Summary of the invention

[0004] In one aspect, the present disclosure describes an aircraft seat for installation in an aircraft cabin, the seat comprising: a seat pan frame supporting a seat pan; a backrest assembly; and a controller device. The backrest assembly comprises: a backrest frame connected to the seat pan frame, the backrest frame supporting a backrest surface; a pressure sensing device attached to the backrest surface to detect pressure received in multiple areas of the backrest surface; and a back support device attached to the backrest frame and configured to displace a portion of the backrest surface based on the pressure detected in at least one of the multiple areas of the backrest surface. The controller device is connected to the pressure sensing device and the back support device and is configured to control the displacement of the portion of the backrest surface caused by the back support device.

[0005] In some embodiments, the pressure sensing device is a resistive pressure sensor.

[0006] In some embodiments, the resistive pressure sensor is at least partially formed using a Velostat TM Made.

[0007] In some embodiments, the plurality of regions correspond to one or more of the following regions: a lumbar region, an upper back region, a right cushion region, and a left cushion region of a backrest surface.

[0008] In some embodiments, the back support apparatus includes: a support panel, and a biasing member; the support panel is configured to deform and subsequently displace the portion of the backrest surface by a force applied by the biasing member.

[0009] In some embodiments, the biasing member comprises a spring made of nickel titanium or nitinol.

[0010] In some embodiments, the controller device is configured to: receive data from a pressure sensing device; calculate a corresponding average pressure value in each of multiple areas of the backrest surface based on the received data; calculate an error value based on the corresponding average pressure value; determine a target state of the biasing member based on the error value; and send an electronic signal representing a command based on the target state to control the current in the biasing member.

[0011] In some embodiments, the controller device comprises a current controller, and the command is sent to the current controller to adjust the current in the biasing member.

[0012] In some embodiments, the target state includes one of: actuated, deactuated, and hold position.

[0013] In some embodiments, the magnitude of the current is determined based on a target state.

[0014] Embodiments may include combinations of the above features.

[0015] In another aspect, the present disclosure describes a back support assembly comprising: a pressure sensing device for attaching to a backrest of a seat to detect pressure received in multiple areas of a backrest surface of the backrest; a back support apparatus for attaching to the backrest, the back support apparatus being configured to displace a portion of the backrest surface based on the pressure detected in at least one of the multiple areas of the backrest surface; and a controller apparatus connected to the pressure sensing device and the back support apparatus, the controller apparatus being configured to control the displacement of the portion of the backrest surface caused by the back support apparatus.

[0016] In some embodiments, the pressure sensing device is a resistive pressure sensor.

[0017] In some embodiments, the resistive pressure sensor is at least partially formed using a Velostat TM Made.

[0018] In some embodiments, the plurality of regions correspond to one or more of the following regions: a lumbar region, an upper back region, a right cushion region, and a left cushion region of a backrest surface.

[0019] In some embodiments, the back support apparatus includes: a support panel, and a biasing member; the support panel is configured to deform and subsequently displace the portion of the backrest surface by a force applied by the biasing member.

[0020] In some embodiments, the biasing member comprises a spring made of nickel titanium or nitinol.

[0021] In some embodiments, the controller device is configured to: receive data from a pressure sensing device; calculate a corresponding average pressure value in each of multiple areas of the backrest surface based on the received data; calculate an error value based on the corresponding average pressure values; determine a target state of the biasing member based on the error value; and send an electronic signal representing a command based on the target state to control the current in the biasing member.

[0022] In some embodiments, the controller device comprises a current controller and the command is sent to the current controller to adjust the current in the biasing member.

[0023] In some embodiments, the target state includes one of: actuated, deactuated, and hold position.

[0024] In some embodiments, the magnitude of the current is determined based on a target state.

[0025] Embodiments may include combinations of the above features.

[0026] In a further aspect, the present disclosure describes a back cushion for attachment to a seat, the cushion comprising: a body having a back support surface, a top surface, a bottom surface, and a back surface; a pressure sensing device attached to the back support surface to detect pressure received in multiple areas of the back support surface; a back support device attached to the pressure sensing device, the back support device being configured to displace a portion of the back support surface based on the pressure detected by the pressure sensing device in at least one of the multiple areas of the back support surface; and a controller device connected to the pressure sensing device and the back support device, the controller device being configured to control the displacement of the portion of the back support surface caused by the back support device.

[0027] In some embodiments, the back pad further includes one or more fasteners for removably attaching to the seat.

[0028] In some embodiments, the back support apparatus includes: a support panel, and a biasing member; the support panel is configured to deform and subsequently displace the portion of the back support surface by a force applied by the biasing member.

[0029] In some embodiments, the pressure sensing device is a resistive pressure sensor.

[0030] In some embodiments, the resistive pressure sensor is at least partially formed using a Velostat TM Made.

[0031] In some embodiments, the plurality of regions corresponds to one or more of the following regions: a lumbar region, an upper back region, a right cushion region, and a left cushion region of the back support surface.

[0032] In some embodiments, the back support apparatus includes: a support panel, and a biasing member; the support panel is configured to deform and subsequently displace the portion of the back support surface by a force applied by the biasing member.

[0033] In some embodiments, the biasing member comprises a spring made of nickel titanium or nitinol.

[0034] In some embodiments, the controller device is configured to: receive data from a pressure sensing device; calculate a corresponding average pressure value in each of multiple areas of the back support surface based on the received data; calculate an error value based on the corresponding average pressure values; determine a target state of the biasing member based on the error value; and send an electronic signal representing a command based on the target state to control the current in the biasing member.

[0035] In some embodiments, the controller device comprises a current controller and the command is sent to the current controller to adjust the current in the biasing member.

[0036] In some embodiments, the target state includes one of: actuated, deactuated, and hold position.

[0037] In some embodiments, the magnitude of the current is determined based on a target state.

[0038] Embodiments may include combinations of the above features.

[0039] Further details of these and other aspects of the subject matter of the present application will be apparent from the detailed description and drawings included below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0041] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional illustration of the fuselage of an aircraft;

[0042] Figure 2 is a schematic exploded view of an exemplary aircraft seat having an intelligent back support mechanism in a fuselage of an aircraft;

[0043] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a portion of a backrest assembly and controls of an exemplary aircraft seat in FIG.

[0044] Figure 4A Shown for Figure 3 An exemplary embodiment of a controller for an intelligent back support mechanism in an exemplary aircraft seat;

[0045] Figure 4BAn exemplary embodiment of a controller for an intelligent back support mechanism having two biasing members is shown;

[0046] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C each showing a different example diagram of a support panel attached to a backrest frame;

[0047] Figure 6 shows different areas on the backrest surface for pressure sensing;

[0048] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B Each shows an example design of a biasing member for adjusting a support panel;

[0049] Figure 7C An exemplary embodiment of a Nitinol spring that may be implemented as a biasing member is shown, wherein the Nitinol spring is in a state of equilibrium;

[0050] Fig.7D An exemplary embodiment of a Nitinol spring that may be implemented as a biasing member is shown, wherein the Nitinol spring is in a compressed state;

[0051] Figure 8 Different spring rate parameters for designing the biasing member are shown;

[0052] Fig. 9 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary pressure sensing mat;

[0053] Fig. 10A Shows Fig. 9 An exemplary embodiment of a pressure sensing mat in;

[0054] Fig. 10B Shown by Fig. 10A An exemplary grid heat map generated by the pressure pad in;

[0055] Fig.11 An example process for intelligently adjusting a backrest surface based on real-time pressure feedback is shown;

[0056] Fig.12 An exemplary graph showing displacement of a biasing member applied by different blasting currents;

[0057] Fig.13 Another exemplary graph showing displacement of a biasing member applied by different holding currents;

[0058] Fig.14 A comparison between different designs of back support mechanisms is illustrated;

[0059] Fig.15A shows a heat map of pressure before application of the smart back support;

[0060] Fig. 15B shows a heat map of pressure after applying the smart back support;

[0061] Fig.16A An exemplary back cushion is shown wherein the smart back support is mounted to a seat; and

[0062] Fig. 16B Shown is mounted on the seat Fig.16A An exemplary schematic diagram of an exemplary back cushion in . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] To truly address the back pain or soft tissue discomfort associated with sitting in a seat for long periods of time, such as on a long flight, the backrest of the seat should ideally morph, e.g., change shape, to conform to the shape of the human spine of the passenger or user. While passive morphing padding, such as memory foam, is available, it can only provide compression and static morphing, meaning that the padding can be pressed inward, but cannot be pushed outward, nor can it dynamically respond to changes in the posture of the human spine.

[0064] The present disclosure describes an aircraft cabin and aircraft furniture that, in some embodiments, helps improve passenger comfort and work efficiency. For example, an aircraft seat having an intelligent back support mechanism is disclosed that adjusts a seat back surface based on real-time pressure values ​​sensed from the back surface.

[0065] Embodiments of a back support system are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the back support system may include an aircraft seat, a back support device, or a back cushion. When a person sits on a seat or chair having the back support device or the back cushion, the back support system provides active and localized gradient features to conform to the human spine shape of the user by actively sensing and controlling the back pressure applied to one or more areas of the human back to provide continuous seating comfort. These embodiments may include, for example, patch-based cushion gradients using smart material actuators or biasing members that can be easily embedded in seats; pressure sensing cushion covers made of smart textile materials; and smart back support mechanisms that implement human spine modeling methods to identify one or more unsupported areas (or insufficiently supported areas) that require localized support. Some embodiments disclosed herein can be integrated with existing seats without structural modifications to the seats.

[0066] The back support device and back cushion can be used to install or attach to a traditional aircraft seat or a traditional chair to provide a customer-preferred experience on an otherwise rigid, fixed seat by implementing an intelligent back support mechanism for adjusting one or more areas of the support surface based on real-time pressure values ​​sensed from the support surface.

[0067] In some embodiments, the intelligent back support mechanism is configured to continuously adjust a backrest surface or support surface to provide lumbar support to a user seated in an aircraft seat or chair.

[0068] Aspects of the various embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0069] The term "attached" may include both direct attachment (where two elements are in contact with each other) and indirect attachment (where at least one additional element is located between the two elements). As used herein, the term "substantially" may be applied to any quantitative representation to which modification may permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related.

[0070] Figure 1 1 is a cross-sectional illustration of an aircraft cabin 10. The aircraft cabin 10 may be part of any manned aircraft, such as a corporate, private, commercial (eg, passenger) aircraft, for example. For example, in some embodiments, the aircraft cabin 10 may be part of a business jet.

[0071] Although it has been Figure 1 A circular cross-section is selected for the nacelle 10 depicted in the drawings, but it should be noted that the cross-sectional shape of the nacelle 10 is not critical to the operation of any embodiment of the present invention. It is contemplated that, for example, the nacelle 10 may alternatively exhibit a square or oval configuration, etc. In other words, the nacelle 10 may take any shape without departing from the scope of the present invention. For ease of illustration, a circular cross-section has been selected for the fuselage 10 for the various embodiments of the present invention depicted herein.

[0072] Additionally, it should be noted that the size of the cabin 10 is not critical to the operation of the present invention. The cabin 10 may be proportionally larger or smaller depending on the type of aircraft. Additionally, the seats 16, 18, 20 in the aircraft may be larger or smaller depending on the size and style of the aircraft. Thus, as should be apparent, the relative proportions of the various elements of the aircraft (with respect to each other) may vary without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0073] like Figure 1 As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the cabin 10 includes a floor 14 positioned within a body 12. Positioned on the floor 14 are seats 16, 18, 20 for passengers.

[0074] As will be known to those skilled in the art, the seats 16, 18, 20 typically include legs 22 secured in tracks 24 that are incorporated into the floor 14. The tracks 24 allow the seats 16, 18, 20 to move in a fore-aft direction of the fuselage 10. For safety reasons, the seats 16, 18, 20 typically cannot be moved from their secure positions within the tracks 24 without appropriate tools and instruments. In other words, under normal operating conditions, a passenger typically cannot move any of the seats 16, 18, 20 within the tracks 24.

[0075] With respect to the track 24 and the seats 16, 18, 20, it is known in the art to construct the seats 16, 18, 20 so that the seats 16, 18, 20 can move a limited (or predetermined) distance in either or both of the fore-and-aft directions within the track 24. The seats 16, 18, 20 that are capable of moving within the track 24 are referred to herein as adjustable seats. Adjustable seats are typically provided with a joystick that allows limited (or predetermined) movement of the seats 16, 18, 20 in the fore-and-aft directions. Adjustable seats 16, 18, 20 may be used in corporate and private aircraft.

[0076] For purposes of the present invention, adjustable seats 16, 18, 20 (which can be moved in the fore-aft direction via operation of a joystick or other operating mechanism) may be employed without departing from the scope of the present invention. Adjustment of seats 16, 18, 20 may be employed in lieu of or in addition to the adjustability parameters discussed in more detail below.

[0077] As shown, the seats 16, 18, 20 include a seat pan 26, a backrest 28, and one or more armrests 30, which may be retractable. These aspects of the seats 16, 18, 20 are provided for context only, as the exact construction of the individual seats 16, 18, 20 is not critical to the present invention. The seats 16, 18, 20 (and any other seats described herein) may take any other form, shape, design or configuration without departing from the scope of the present invention. Moreover, although the illustrated embodiment is shown for seats in an aircraft, the seats may be used in any other type of vehicle or context where seating is required.

[0078] Each of the seats 16, 18, 20 is provided with two armrests 30. However, it is possible that the seats 18, 20 may share a common armrest 30 without departing from the scope of the present invention. Other configurations may be known to those skilled in the art and are intended to be covered by the present invention.

[0079] The aircraft cabin 10 may be configured to accommodate one or more passengers therein and may also be referred to as a "passenger cabin." The aircraft cabin 10 (hereinafter referred to as "cabin 10") may include a floor 14, wall panels 12 lining the inside of the fuselage of the aircraft, windows, and bulkheads that may serve as cabin partitions within the cabin 10. The cabin 10 may also include one or more pieces of furniture, such as one or more tables (not shown), resting on the floor 14.

[0080] Figure 2 2 is a schematic exploded view of an exemplary aircraft seat 200 having an intelligent back support mechanism within a cabin 10 of an aircraft. The aircraft seat 200 may have a seat pan frame 270 supporting a seat pan 260 and a backrest assembly 210. In some embodiments, the backrest assembly 210 may include a backrest frame 250 connected to the seat pan frame 270, the backrest frame 250 supporting a backrest surface 220; a pressure sensing device 230 attached to the backrest surface 220 to detect pressure received in a plurality of regions of the backrest surface; and a back support device 240 attached to the backrest frame 250 and configured to displace a portion of the backrest surface 220 based on the pressure detected in at least one of the plurality of regions of the backrest surface. The aircraft seat 200 also includes a controller device 280 connected to the pressure sensing device 230 and the back support device 240, the controller device 280 being configured to control the displacement of the portion of the backrest surface 220 caused by the back support device 240. The controller device 280 (also referred to as controller 280 ) may be battery powered or connected to a power source 290 for operation.

[0081] For ease of illustration, Figure 2 Some connections between various components are omitted. For example, the pressure sensing device 230 is connected to the backrest surface 220 to sense pressure in multiple areas, as described in further detail below.

[0082] The backrest assembly 210 may be wrapped with an upholstery fabric or material that is flexible and can conform to the geometry of the back of a passenger seated in the aircraft seat 200. The backrest surface 220 is, for example, made of a flexible material that can partially or fully stretch, deform, or shift when a force is applied by the back support device 240. The backrest surface 200 can return to its natural state when no force is applied by the back support device 240.

[0083] In some embodiments, the backrest surface 200 may be made of a cushion or padding made of a flexible material to provide comfort to the passenger.

[0084] In some embodiments, the back support device 240 may be electronically controlled and include a support panel 245 and a biasing member 243 , the support panel 245 being configured to deform by a force applied by the biasing member 243 and in turn displace or deform one or more portions of the backrest surface 220 .

[0085] The exact placement of the pressure sensing device 230 and the back support device 240 within the backrest assembly 210 can be determined based on a variety of factors. In some embodiments, human spine modeling is developed to identify one or more unsupported areas or regions that require localized support from the back support device 240. For example, a parametric human spine model is developed that takes into account the range of motion of the 26 vertebrae and 23 intervertebral discs. By correlating the parametric human spine model with various seat tilt angles of the aircraft seats 16, 18, 20, the spinal shape for various sitting postures can be predicted.

[0086] For another example, different parameterized human spine models are developed by considering common seat contours (or cushion contours) across different types of seats, including aircraft seats.

[0087] Based on two different parameterized human spine models, contact areas and non-contact areas (or sub-areas) are determined between the seat contour and the human body. The determined contact areas and non-contact areas (or sub-areas) can be used to identify areas in the backrest surface 220 that require additional support.

[0088] In order for a passenger to feel comfortable in an aircraft seat, or any seat for that matter, the passenger's spine should be adequately supported by the seat back so that the spine maintains an ideal curvature shape even within a certain range of motion. For example, in different seating positions, a corresponding ideal curvature shape may be determined for one or more of the following regions: the lumbar (lower back) spinal region, the thoracic (trunk) spinal region, and the cervical (neck) spinal region of the human spine.

[0089] In order to adequately support the human spine of a passenger seated in seats 16, 18, 20, the contour of the backrest surface 220 of seats 16, 18, 20 is implemented to gradually change in one or more areas so as to respond to the passenger's spinal movement and generally follow and support the general contour of the passenger's human spine while adapting to the passenger's movement in real time or near real time.

[0090] In some embodiments, the placement of the pressure sensing device 230 and the back support apparatus 240 within the backrest assembly 210 may be determined to be in the lumbar region or zone 640 of the backrest surface 220 (see, e.g. Figure 6 ) to provide adequate support for the lumbar spine area of ​​a typical passenger.

[0091] In other embodiments, the placement of the pressure sensing device 230 and the back support apparatus 240 within the back assembly 210 may be determined to be in the upper back region or zone 610 of the back surface 220 (see, e.g. Figure 6 ) to provide adequate support for the cervical (neck) spine area of ​​the average passenger.

[0092] In yet other embodiments, two or more sets of pressure sensing devices 230 and back support devices 240 may be implemented within the backrest assembly 210 such that a first set of pressure sensing devices 230 and back support devices 240 are positioned behind the lumbar region 640 of the backrest surface 220, and a second set of pressure sensing devices 230 and back support devices 240 are positioned behind the upper back region or zone 610 of the backrest surface 220, such that the first back support devices 240 may provide adequate support to the lumbar spine region of a typical occupant, and the second back support devices 240 may provide adequate support to the cervical (neck) spine region of the same occupant, either independently or in concert to maintain the ideal curvature shape of the human spine of the occupant in a range of seating positions. During operation, each pressure sensing device 230 in each corresponding group is configured to detect and determine the pressure in the corresponding area (e.g., area 610 or 640), and then the controller 280 operates the corresponding support device 240 in each corresponding area to provide adequate support to the corresponding spinal area of ​​the passenger in real time through one or more sub-areas of the gradient backrest surface 220.

[0093] For ease of illustration, Figure 2 Only one set of pressure sensing devices 230 and back support devices 240 is shown in the figure, however, it should be understood that two or more sets of pressure sensing devices 230 and back support devices 240 can be installed in the backrest assembly 210 and connected to one controller 280. Throughout this disclosure, most of the descriptions of the pressure sensing devices 230 and back support devices 240 are referenced to Figure 2 , but it should be understood that similar construction and operation modes can be applied to each pressure sensing device 230 and each back support device 240 (if multiple sets are installed in one seat).

[0094] The back support device 240 has a relatively small footprint and size (compared to the aircraft seat 200), while in practice, accurately and intelligently controlling the backrest surface 220 in real time to provide superior comfort to the passenger in the aircraft seat 200, especially in the lumbar region. The back support device 240 and / or the pressure sensing device 230 can be turned on or off with a switch (not shown).

[0095] Figure 3 is a diagram showing a method according to some exemplary embodiments Figure 2 FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram 300 of a portion of an exemplary aircraft seat 200 backrest assembly 210 and a controller 280. In some embodiments, a pressure sensing device 230 is positioned between an interior surface of a backrest surface 220 and a support panel 245 of a backrest support device 240. The support panel 245 is connected to a biasing member 243, which is controlled by a current controller 285 within the control device 280.

[0096] In some embodiments, a current control device (e.g., current controller 285) is controlled by microcontroller 288 to control biasing member 243 because some blasting currents and holding currents required to adjust biasing member 243 may be too large to pass through microcontroller 288. To switch from blasting current to holding current, microcontroller 288 may reduce its PWM output to current controller 285, which in turn reduces the output current.

[0097] In some embodiments, pressure sensing device 230 may include a pressure sensor configured to generate and transmit one or more pressure readings to controller 280 based on real-time pressure received in one or more areas of backrest surface 220 .

[0098] In some embodiments, pressure sensing device 230 may include a resistive pressure sensor.

[0099] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of a pressure pad 900 is shown as part of an exemplary pressure sensing device 230. The pressure pad 900 may be attached (eg, affixed) to a lower area of ​​the inside of the backrest surface 220 to detect forces and pressures applied by a user or passenger when seated in the aircraft seat 200.

[0100] In some embodiments, pressure pad 900 uses Velostat TM As a resistive pressure sensor, Velostat TM The resistance of the sensor changes based on the pressure applied to it. For example, the outer layers 910, 950 can be a non-conductive material such as vinyl, followed by conductive layers 920, 940, and the innermost layer 930 can be a Velostat that acts as a pressure sensor. TM Each conductive layer 920, 940 may include electrodes (e.g., copper strips) that are arranged as parallel copper strips, with the copper strips in layer 920 placed perpendicular to the copper strips in layer 940, to form a matrix or grid sensing structure. The resistance between any top and bottom electrodes or copper strips may be proportional to the pressure at their respective intersections.

[0101] Fig. 10A Shown just before final assembly Fig. 9 1000 of an exemplary embodiment of a pressure pad 900 in FIG. Conductive layer 920 has a column of parallel copper strips, and conductive layer 940 has a row of parallel copper strips, each of which is connected to one end of a corresponding conductive wire 960, and the other end of conductive wire 960 is connected to controller 280 (e.g., to microcontroller 288 inside controller 280). The column of copper strips is placed perpendicular to the row of copper strips, and Velostat TM Layer 930 is sandwiched.

[0102] In some embodiments, when a user sits against the backrest surface 220, different pressures are applied to one or more areas of the backrest surface 220 (see, e.g., Figure 6 ), and thus, the pressure sensing device 230 including the pressure pad 900 attached to the surface 220 can receive different pressure feedback based on the pressure applied to one or more areas of the backrest surface 220.

[0103] In some embodiments, pressure feedback from the backrest surface 220 in the form of resistance readings from the pressure pad 900 can be captured by a plurality of conductive wires 960, each respective conductive wire 960 having a first end connected to (e.g., soldered to) the end of a respective copper strip of conductive material in the layers 920, 940, and a second end connected to a respective input pin of the controller 280. The controller 280 receives the resistance readings from the conductive wires 960 to generate an average pressure reading in one or more regions of the backrest surface 220, determines a target state for the biasing member 243, and then generates one or more electrical signals to control the biasing member 243, thereby implementing a closed-loop intelligent control system. In some embodiments, the resistance readings are calibrated against weight by the controller 280 to interpret the resistance readings as received pressure.

[0104] Once assembled in place with the conductive wires 960, the assembly including the pressure pad 900 acts as a matrix pressure sensor. For example, the first conductive layer 920 may include m copper strips, each connected to a corresponding input pin of the first set of input pins of the controller 280 (each via the conductive wires 960), and the second conductive layer 940 may include n copper strips, each connected to a corresponding input pin of the second set of input pins of the controller 280 (each via the conductive wires 960); when the copper strips on the first conductive layer 920 are placed perpendicular to the copper strips on the second conductive layer 940, and the Velostat TM Layer 930 is in the middle of the two conductive layers 920, 940; the pressure pad 900 acts as a matrix sensor device, with mxn sensors.

[0105] In one embodiment, each of the conductive layers 920, 940 has 15 copper strips, and the resulting pressure pad 900 is implemented as a 15x15 matrix sensor, with 255 nodes.

[0106] Fig. 10B The diagram shows a pressure sensor generated based on pressure feedback (eg, real-time resistance data received by the controller 280 via the conductive line 960 from multiple nodes in the matrix sensor). Fig. 10A FIG. 1 is an exemplary grid heat map 1050 generated by the pressure pad 900 in FIG. As a user or passenger applies force to the backrest surface 220 while seated in the aircraft seat 200 , pressure feedback (eg, resistance data) is generated in real time from the pressure applied to one or more areas of the backrest surface 220 .

[0107] Pressure feedback 235 from the pressure sensing device 230 is obtained in real time or near real time based on the detected force from one of the multiple areas of the backrest surface 220 and transmitted to the controller 280 to control the biasing member 243. Based on the amount of current sent from the current controller 285, the biasing member 243 can expand or contract in length and / or width, or remain stationary without any change.

[0108] In some embodiments, the controller device 280 is configured to receive data 235 from the pressure sensing device 230; calculate a corresponding average pressure value in each of multiple areas of the backrest surface 220 based on the received data 235; calculate an error value based on the corresponding average pressure value; determine a target state of the biasing member 243 based on the error value; and send an electronic signal representing a command based on the target state to control the current in the biasing member 243.

[0109] In some embodiments, received data 235 may include direct pressure readings from pressure sensing device 230 .

[0110] In some embodiments, when the pressure sensing device 230 is a resistive pressure sensor, such as a Velostat TM When the pressure sensing mat 900 is manufactured, the received data 235 may include a resistance reading from the pressure sensing device 230 .

[0111] In some embodiments, the controller device 280 includes a current controller 285, and a command is sent to the current controller for adjusting the current in the biasing member. In some embodiments, the target state includes one of: actuated, deactuated, and held position. In some embodiments, the magnitude of the current is determined based on the target state.

[0112] The support panel 245 may be made of a flexible material that is induced to change or maintain its shape in response to the physical displacement of the biasing member 243 and, in turn, displace one or more regions of the backrest surface 220 to support one or more regions of the back, such as the lumbar region, of a passenger seated in the seat 200. The displacement may be, for example, along a z-axis perpendicular to the aircraft floor, or perpendicular to the ground if the back support device 240 is mounted on a conventional chair in an office.

[0113] In some embodiments, the support panel 245 can be made from a range of spring materials. For example, SAE 1095 spring steel can be used to make the support panel 245. For another example, SAE 1074 or ASTM A231 spring steel can be used to make the support panel 245. For yet another example, chrome vanadium can be used to make the support panel 245. If stainless steel is preferred, ASTM A313 stainless steel type 302 or ASTM A666 stainless steel type 301 can be used to make the support panel 245.

[0114] In some embodiments, plastics may also be used to make the support panel 245 if the plastics are sufficiently elastic, such as nylon.

[0115] The support panel 245 has a relatively small footprint, which is defined by the width and length. In some embodiments, the possible range of sizes for the width of the support panel 245 is 17 to 25 cm, with 20 cm being the 95th percentile fit (based on NASA TM Anthropometric data). The length of the support panel 245 can range from 13 to 17 cm, with 15 cm being the 95th percentile fit (based on NASA TM anthropometric data).

[0116] For example, in FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C , the support panel 245 has a size of 20 cm x 15 cm. The support panel 245 can be coupled to the backrest frame 250 using one or more fasteners, for example, using one or more of glue, bolts, screws, clips, or nails. The biasing member 243 has two ends, wherein each respective end is attached or coupled to a respective one of two opposite sides of the support panel 245 so as to deform the top surface 242 of the support panel 245 when actuated (e.g., heated above a certain temperature) by an electric current from the controller 280.

[0117] In some embodiments, the deformation of the top surface 242 of the support panel 245 causes the distance from the top surface 242 to the surface of the back frame 250 to be greater than 1 / 2 of the top surface 242. Figure 5CThe backrest surface 220 is provided with a predetermined height (denoted by h in the figure) to apply force and displacement to the backrest surface 220 to provide optimal and real-time support to an area of ​​the back of the passenger in the aircraft seat 200 (e.g., the lumbar region 640 or the lower back region 650). In some embodiments, h is determined to provide a displacement of 5-8 cm (e.g., 6 cm) along the z-axis of the support panel 245. The z-axis refers to an axis parallel to the floor or ground on which the seat 200 or chair is installed or placed.

[0118] The power source 290 may be, for example, a battery installed in the aircraft seat 200 , or may be an external power source such as a DC power source, and the power source 290 may be connected to the controller 280 to provide power to the controller 280 .

[0119] In some embodiments, the biasing member 243 can be made of nickel titanium or nitinol (an alloy of nickel and titanium), which is a superelastic and shape memory alloy. The property of nitinol is shape memory, which means that the biasing member 243 made of nitinol can undergo deformation (e.g., bending) at one temperature and return to its natural, undeformed state when cooled. Heating can be provided by, for example, an electric current transmitted to the nitinol. Furthermore, adjustment of the magnitude of the current supplied to the biasing member 243 made of nitinol can adjust the shape, volume or other morphological characteristics of the biasing member 243 based on certain phase transformations of the nitinol, such as from martensite (low temperature) to austenite (high temperature).

[0120] When current is applied to the Nitinol wire, the resistance of the Nitinol to the current generates enough heat (Ohmic heating) to cause the Nitinol to pass through its transition temperature, where it contracts. An opposing force, called a bias force, occurs in the Nitinol wire in the opposite direction of its contraction. The bias force resets the Nitinol wire back to its original length at the low temperature stage (e.g., when little or no current is applied).

[0121] In some embodiments, the biasing member 243 can be a spring made at least in part using a nitinol wire (also referred to as a "nitinol spring"). As the magnitude of the current supplied from the controller 280 to the biasing member 243 changes, the nitinol undergoes a phase change, and the stiffness of the spring changes accordingly. For a nitinol spring actuated by current, a higher transition temperature provides a faster cycle rate, while a lower transition temperature consumes less power.

[0122] For example, the biasing member 243 may be a bidirectional nitinol spring 243 that resets to a balanced state when cooled. When the bidirectional nitinol spring 243 is heated by an electric current, the nitinol spring 243 contracts and exerts a force such that both sides of the support panel 245 (each side is coupled to a respective end of the nitinol spring 243) are pulled toward the center of the nitinol spring 243, thereby forming a support panel 245 between the backrest frame 250 and the surface 242 of the support panel 245 that reaches or has a height h (see, e.g. Figure 5C ). In this way, the support panel 245 is configured to be deformed by the force applied by the biasing member 243 and, in turn, displace at least a portion of the backrest surface 220. Once cooled, the nitinol spring 243 extends by itself applying force in the opposite direction, thereby relaxing the support panel 245.

[0123] The required spring constant in one exemplary embodiment of the back support device 240 is determined using an equivalent system that takes into account the relationship between the user or passenger's lumbar region force 700 (in Watts) and the biasing force 720 (in F or Newtons) applied by the biasing member 243 (spring), as Fig. 7A as shown in .

[0124] Based on research, the support panel 245 is configured in some exemplary embodiments to provide a maximum displacement h along the z-axis, such as Fig. 7A . For example, h can be approximately 5-8 cm (e.g., 5 or 6 cm) to provide optimal lumbar comfort. The z-axis refers to an axis parallel to the floor or ground on which the seat 200 or chair is installed or placed. For example, the z-axis is an axis parallel to the lumbar region force 700, and the support panel 245 applies a force in a direction that resists the lumbar region force 700. In some embodiments, h is determined to provide a displacement of 5-8 cm along the z-axis of the support panel 245, so that the support panel 245 applies a force to the backrest surface 220, thereby providing optimal and real-time support to an area of ​​the back of the passenger in the aircraft seat 200 (e.g., the lumbar region 640 or the lower back region 650).

[0125] In such Figure 7B In the embodiment shown in , the moment (M) 730 generated by the equivalent biasing force of the nitinol spring 243 is used to determine in order to achieve optimal lumbar comfort. An example calculation is as follows: (Equation 1) (Equation 2) (Equation 3) (Equation 4) (Equation 5) (Equation 6) and,

[0126] variable value #timg# 0.06m #timg# 0.03m #timg# 0.10m

[0127] In some exemplary embodiments, the determined spring stiffness parameter (also referred to as spring constant) k may be 1694 N / m, and the following conditions need to be satisfied by the biasing member 243 in the form of a Nitinol spring: (Spring Low: Spring low, Spring High: Spring high)

[0128] Figure 8 A table 800 is shown with different spring stiffness parameters for designing a biasing member 243 in the form of a nitinol spring, where the dimensions are based on stock spiral nitinol from Kellogg Research Laboratories. In some exemplary embodiments, based on a predetermined value for the spring stiffness parameter k (e.g., 1694 N / m), a spring stiffness parameter k may be selected such as Figure 8 Many of the spring rate configurations shown in , including one or more of the following:

[0129] serial number Line d (m) <![CDATA[D s,内 (m)]]> <![CDATA[D s (m)]]> N Spring (low) (N / m) Spring (height) (N / m) 1 0.002 0.00475 0.00675 50.0 1404.66 3745.77 2 0.002 0.006 0.008 50.0 843.75 2250.00

[0130] Although both configurations No. 1 and No. 2 show that both satisfy the prerequisite However, when the support panel 245 requires a larger amount of support, structure No. 1 with a larger spring stiffness parameter (for example, a spring height (N / m) of 3745.77) can be selected, and when a lower cooling temperature is required, structure No. 2 with a smaller spring stiffness parameter (for example, a spring height (N / m) of 2250) can be selected.

[0131] As a non-limiting example, a biasing member 243 (nitinol spring) based on Configuration 1 above was selected and fabricated based on the manufacturing parameters in the table below, with a wire diameter of 2 mm and a mandrel size of 4.75 mm.

[0132] characteristic value Wire diameter 2mm Mandrel size 4.75mm Pitch tight Transition temperature 80℃ length 10cm

[0133] Figure 7C An exemplary embodiment of a Nitinol spring that may be implemented as biasing member 243 is shown, wherein the Nitinol spring is in equilibrium and Fig.7D The same nitinol spring is shown in a compressed state. When the bidirectional nitinol spring 243 is heated by an electric current, the nitinol spring 243 contracts (eg, Fig.7D) and exerts a force so that both sides of the support panel 245 (each side is connected to a corresponding end of the nitinol spring 243) are pulled toward the center of the nitinol spring 243, thereby forming an arch that reaches or has a height h between the frame 250 and the surface 242 of the support panel 245 (see, for example Figure 5C Once cooled, the nitinol spring 243 extends by itself exerting a force in the opposite direction (e.g., Figure 7C ), thereby loosening the support panel 245.

[0134] In some exemplary embodiments, controller device 280 may include at least one processor, one or more memories, one or more I / O interfaces, and optionally a network interface.

[0135] Each processor may be, for example, a microprocessor or microcontroller, a digital signal processing (DSP) processor, an integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a reconfigurable processor, a programmable read-only memory (PROM), or any combination thereof.

[0136] Each memory may include, for example, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), an electro-optical memory, a magneto-optical memory, an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a ferroelectric RAM (FRAM), etc.

[0137] Each I / O interface enables the controller device 280 to interconnect with one or more input devices or equipment, such as conductive wires, keyboards, mice, cameras, touch screens, and microphones, or to interconnect with one or more output devices or devices to output a specific range of voltage (e.g., -10V to +10V), or to output a specific range of current (e.g., -10A to +10A).

[0138] Each network interface (which may be optional) enables the controller device 280 to communicate with other components, exchange data with other components, access and connect to network resources, service applications, and execute other computing applications by connecting to a network (or multiple networks) capable of carrying data, including the Internet, Ethernet, plain old telephone service (POTS) lines, public switched telephone network (PSTN), integrated services digital network (ISDN), digital subscriber line (DSL), coaxial cable, fiber optic, satellite, mobile (e.g., 4G, 5G networks), wireless (e.g., Wi-Fi, WiMAX), SS7 signaling network, fixed line, local area network, wide area network, etc., including any combination of these.

[0139] In some exemplary embodiments, the controller device 280 may include a microcontroller 288 having a plurality of input pins and a plurality of output pins. In some exemplary embodiments, the controller device 280 may further include a current controller 285 connected to one or more output pins of the microcontroller 288.

[0140] Figure 4A Shown for Figure 3 An exemplary embodiment of a controller 280 for an intelligent back support mechanism in an exemplary aircraft seat in FIG. Controller 280 may include a current controller 285 (e.g., a Cytron XT power supply) connected to a power supply 290 (e.g., an LCS50US05 power supply having a maximum output of 5V and 10A). TM MDD10A), and a microcontroller 288 (e.g., Arduino Mega TM ). A first biasing member 243 in the form of a Nitinol spring is connected to an output port of the current controller 285 for biasing or actuating the first support panel 245 .

[0141] In some embodiments, when the second set of pressure sensing devices and the back support apparatus are installed in the backrest assembly 210, the conductive wire 960b of the second pressure sensing device is connected to the input pin of the microcontroller 288 and is presented as follows: Figure 4B A second biasing member 244 in the form of a nickel titanium spring is shown connected to an output port of a current controller 285 for biasing or actuating a support panel within the second back support device.

[0142] In some embodiments, data from the pressure pad 900 representing pressure feedback 235 from the backrest surface 220 (e.g., in the form of a resistance reading) can be captured by a plurality of conductive wires 960, 960a, 960b, each respective conductive wire 960 having a first end connected to (e.g., soldered to) an end of a respective strip or conductive wire of conductive material of the pressure pad 900, and a second end connected to a respective input pin of the controller 280, as shown. Figure 4A and Figure 4B as shown in .

[0143] exist Figure 4A In FIG. 1 , there is a set of conductive wires (eg, copper wires) 960 from one pressure sensing device 230. In FIG. Figure 4B In the embodiment, there are two groups of conductive wires (eg, copper wires) 960a and 960b, the first group of conductive wires 960a from the first pressure sensing device 230 corresponds to the first nitinol spring 243, and the second group of conductive wires 960b from the second pressure sensing device corresponds to the second nitinol spring 244.

[0144] The controller 280 receives data 235, such as pressure or resistance readings, from the conductive wires 960, 960a, 960b to generate an average pressure reading in one or more areas of the backrest surface 220, determine a target state for the biasing member 243, and then generate one or more electrical signals to control the biasing member 243, thereby implementing a closed-loop intelligent control system. In some embodiments, the resistance reading is calibrated against the weight by the controller 280 to interpret the resistance reading as the received pressure.

[0145] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C Each shows a different example view of a support panel attached to a backrest frame. Figure 5A A front view 500 of the back frame 250 of the seat 200 is shown, having: a support panel 245 attached to the back frame 250; and a biasing member 243 attached to the back of the support panel 245 between the support panel 245 and the back frame 250. Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C In the embodiment of the present invention, the support panel 245 can be attached to the back frame 250 via different means. For example, the support panel 245 can be attached to the back frame 250 using one or more fasteners.

[0146] Figure 5B A front side view 510 of the support panel 245 is shown in an unactuated, neutral state, with the top surface 242 of the support panel 245 being substantially flat. Figure 5C A second side view 520 of the support panel 245 in an actuated state (providing optimal lumbar comfort) is shown, wherein the maximum distance between the surface 242 of the support panel 245 and the backrest frame 250 has a height h, for example, 6 cm. For example, when the nitinol spring 243 is heated and thereby contracted, the height h can be reached, as shown in FIG. Fig.7D as shown in .

[0147] Figure 6 Different regions are shown, including an upper back region 610, a right cushion region 620, a left cushion region 630, a lumbar region 640, and a lower back region 650 (collectively, regions 600) on the backrest surface 220. As described above, the average pressure reading from region 600 is used to determine a target state and the amount of current to be applied to the biasing member 243 to adjust the backrest surface 220. In one embodiment, an exemplary condition for activating the back support device 240 is when the lumbar region pressure reading is 6.8 kPa or less, or when the maximum pressure difference (also referred to as the maximum pressure error) is greater than 10%.

[0148] Fig.11An example process 1100 for intelligently adjusting the backrest surface 220 based on real-time pressure feedback is shown. The controller 280 , which may include, for example, a microcontroller 288 , receives real-time or near real-time pressure feedback 235 from the pressure sensing device 230 at step 1110 .

[0149] At step 1120, the controller 280 uses the pressure feedback 235 to determine the pressure of each corresponding region 610, 620, 630, 640, 650 (see, e.g., Figure 6 ) in the corresponding average pressure.

[0150] For example, for a given area, such as area 650, controller 280 receives resistance data 235 from pressure pads 900 acting as grid sensors, from all nodes within area 650, and then generates an average pressure reading in area 650 of backrest surface 220. For example, at a node of the grid sensor (see Fig. 10B The resistance data in the feedback 235 between any top electrode and bottom electrode (e.g., copper strip) in the grid sensor or pressure pad 900 is proportional to the pressure at their corresponding intersection in the node and can be used to calculate the pressure. Each node in the grid sensor or pressure pad 900 includes a pair of electrodes, namely a top electrode and a bottom electrode (e.g., copper strip).

[0151] In a similar manner, the average pressure for each of the regions 600 of the backrest surface 220 is calculated in real time by the controller 280 based on the feedback 235 from the pressure sensing device.

[0152] At step 1130, a maximum pressure difference or a maximum pressure error (also referred to as a "maximum error") is determined relative to the lumbar region 640 of the backrest surface 220. For example, respective differences between the average pressure in the lumbar region 640 and the respective average pressure in each of the surrounding regions 610, 620, 630, 650 are calculated, and the maximum error can be determined as the maximum value among these respective differences. That is, the maximum error can be calculated based on the maximum difference between the target region (e.g., the lumbar region 640) and any of its surrounding regions.

[0153] An exemplary set of pseudo-code for calculating the maximum error at step 1140 is presented below, where "Lumbar Pressure" represents the average pressure of the lumbar region 640, and each of Region 1, Region 2, Region 3, and Region 4 represents a corresponding surrounding region, namely, the upper back region 610, the right cushion region 620, the left cushion region 630, and the lower back region 650: A1 Pressure = Average Zone 1 Pressure calculated based on readings from the pressure sensing device Lumbar Pressure = Average Lumbar Pressure calculated based on readings from the pressure sensing device Maximum error = abs (A1 pressure - lumbar pressure) A2 Pressure = Average Zone 2 Pressure calculated based on readings from the pressure sensing device If abs (A2 pressure - lumbar pressure) > maximum error Maximum error = abs (A2 pressure - lumbar pressure) A3 Pressure = Average Zone 3 Pressure calculated based on readings from the pressure sensing device If abs (A3 pressure - lumbar pressure) > maximum error Maximum error = abs (A3 pressure - lumbar pressure) A4 Pressure = Average Zone 4 Pressure calculated based on readings from the pressure sensing device If abs (A4 pressure - lumbar pressure) > maximum error Maximum error = abs (A4 pressure - lumbar pressure)

[0154] The value of the maximum error may be converted to a ratio at step 1140 and used to determine a current setting 1150, 1160, 1170. The current setting may include, for example, a type and / or magnitude of current.

[0155] In some embodiments, to determine the current settings 1150, 1160, 1170, the value of the maximum error may be used to first determine a target state for the biasing member 243. The target state may include, for example: actuated, deactuated, or holding position (no change).

[0156] The target state of the biasing member 243 can then be used to determine a corresponding current setting, which can be, for example: a burst current or BC (actuation) 1150, which is used to activate the biasing member 243 (e.g., a nitinol spring) to apply the desired force to support the occupant through the backrest surface 220; a holding current or HC (hold position) 1160, which is used to maintain the current shape or pressure applied by the backrest surface 220; or no current (de-actuation) 1170, in which case the biasing member 243 (if previously activated) will return to its shape.

[0157] In some embodiments, a deadband value that can be predetermined based on experimentation is used to configure the current setting. When setting the deadband value, an example goal can be to reduce the number of times the controller 280 has to switch between BC and HC. For example, 10% can be used for the deadband value.

[0158] In some embodiments, to determine the current setting 1150, 1160, 1170, the target state of the biasing member 243 is first determined based on the maximum error. For example, if the maximum error is greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., 10%), the target state of the biasing member 243 can be expansion or contraction, and in this case, the current setting is determined (e.g., expansion requires cooling or no current, or contraction requires heating or BC).

[0159] At step 1180 , the controller 280 may generate one or more electrical signals for setting a current to control the biasing member 243 , thereby implementing a closed-loop intelligent control system. For example, the current may be generated by the current controller 285 .

[0160] At step 1190 , the biasing member 243 may maintain its current shape, expand, or contract when an electric current is applied thereto, thereby adjusting or maintaining the support panel 245 , and in turn, the back surface 220 .

[0161] Fig.12 An exemplary graph 1200 of the displacement of a biasing member 243 (e.g., a Nitinol spring) over time as different currents are applied is shown. A burst current (BC) is a high current that actuates the spring toward its preset shape. The BC rapidly heats the Nitinol material to an activation temperature. The BC may cause the fastest movement from the stretched shape of the biasing member 243.

[0162] In some embodiments, the magnitude of BC is a value in the range of 8-10A (eg, 9A).

[0163] Since the burst current depends on the biasing member 243 used (e.g., a Nitinol spring), if the length of the support panel 245 is longer, the spring will have to be longer, thus requiring a higher burst current. On the other hand, if the length is less than 13 cm, a larger spring may be required, which in turn requires a larger wire diameter, thus requiring a high burst current.

[0164] Fig.13An exemplary graph 1300 of biasing member displacement with different HC applied is shown. A holding current (HC) is a lower current than BC to maintain the shape of the biasing member 243 (e.g., a Nitinol spring). The HC will maintain the Nitinol temperature to maintain the shape. Thus, the controller 280 is configured to switch from BC to HC when a desired shape or pressure is achieved in the backrest surface 220. For example, the switch from BC to HC can occur during a predetermined time period when a target state of the biasing member 243 (e.g., a Nitinol spring) is known to be achieved. For another example, the switch from BC to HC can occur at a moment when the pressure feedback 235 detected by the pressure sensing device 230 indicates that sufficient support is achieved for the user in the seat 200. In general, a higher HC will cause a higher material actuation.

[0165] Fig.14 A comparison chart 1400 is illustrated showing a comparison between different designs of back support panel 245. Four designs were proposed and compared in the design and implementation of the embodiments disclosed herein. Each design was evaluated based on the following criteria: available adjustment (translation, rotation along the x / y / z axis), the total number of actuators used for adjustment, the material handling required, the ease of implementation, and the ability to return to an "unactuated" shape. Figure 2 Design 4 of the embodiment shown in requires only one actuator (eg, biasing member 243 ) for providing a flexible profile of support panel 245 .

[0166] Fig.15A A pressure heat map 1500 is shown before application of the smart back support. Fig. 15B A pressure heat map 1550 is shown after applying the smart back support. The Nitinol-actuated panel can improve pressure distribution. As shown, the pressure readings become more evenly distributed across the back region (including the lumbar region) from 5.0 kPa to 6.8 kPa.

[0167] In some embodiments, the back support assembly is provided as a separate assembly for installation in a seat, such as aircraft seats 16, 18, 20. The back support assembly may be manufactured and sold to manufacturers of aircraft seats or other types of chairs for insertion into a backrest assembly of an aircraft seat or a different type of seat or chair.

[0168] The back support assembly may include: a pressure sensing device 230, which is used to attach to the backrest of the chair to detect pressure received in multiple areas of the backrest surface of the backrest; a back support device 240, which is used to attach to the backrest, and the back support device 240 is configured to displace a portion of the backrest surface based on the pressure detected in at least one of the multiple areas of the backrest surface; and a controller device 280, which is connected to the pressure sensing device 230 and the back support device 240, and the controller device 280 is configured to control the displacement of the portion of the backrest surface caused by the back support device 240.

[0169] In some embodiments, the pressure sensing device 230 is a resistive pressure sensor. TM Pressure sensors made of Fig. 9 The pressure sensor shown in .

[0170] In some embodiments, the back support device 240 may include: a support panel 245, and a biasing member 243; the support panel 245 is configured to deform and subsequently displace the portion of the backrest surface by the force applied by the biasing member 243.

[0171] In some embodiments, the biasing member may be a Nitinol spring 243 made of nickel titanium.

[0172] In some embodiments, the controller device 280 is configured to: receive data from the pressure sensing device 230; calculate a corresponding average pressure value in each of multiple areas 600 of the backrest surface based on the received data; calculate an error value based on the corresponding average pressure value; determine a target state of the biasing member 243 based on the error value; and send an electronic signal representing a command based on the target state to control the current in the biasing member 243.

[0173] In some embodiments, the controller device 280 includes a current controller 285 , and commands are sent to the current controller to adjust the current in the biasing member 243 .

[0174] In some embodiments, the target state includes one of: actuated, deactuated, and hold position.

[0175] In some embodiments, the magnitude of the current is determined based on a target state.

[0176] Fig.16A An exemplary back cushion 1610 is shown where a smart back support is mounted to a chair 1600. Fig. 16B Shows Fig.16A16. As shown, the back cushion 1610 can be removably attached to the chair 1600 using one or more fasteners 1615a, 1615b. In some embodiments, the operation of the back cushion 1610 does not require any attachment to the chair 1600; for example, the back cushion 610 can be placed on the seat pan 1670 of the chair 1600, against the back support surface 1650 of the back of the chair 1600.

[0177] The back cushion 1610 includes: a body 1612 having a back support surface 1620, a back surface opposite to the back support surface 1620, a top surface, a bottom surface opposite to the top surface, a left surface, and a right surface opposite to the left surface; a pressure sensing device 1630 attached to the back support surface 1620 to detect pressure received in multiple areas of the back support surface 1620; a back support device 1640 attached to the pressure sensing device 1630, the back support device 1640 being configured to displace a portion of the back support surface 1620 based on the pressure detected by the pressure sensing device 1630 in at least one of the multiple areas of the back support surface; and a controller device 1680 connected to the pressure sensing device 1630 and the back support device 1640, the controller device 1680 being configured to control the displacement of the portion of the back support surface 1620 caused by the back support device 1640.

[0178] The back support surface 1620 is configured to intelligently support the back of a person seated in the chair and leaning against the back cushion 1610 when the back cushion 1610 is placed between the person's back and the back surface 1650 of the chair 1600 (with the bottom surface of the cushion 1610 facing the seat or seat pan 1670 of the chair 1600).

[0179] In some embodiments, back support device 1640 includes: a support panel 1645 , and a biasing member 1643 ; support panel 1645 is configured to deform and subsequently displace the portion of back support surface 1620 by a force applied by biasing member 1643 .

[0180] The operations of the back support device 1640, biasing member 1643, support panel 1645, pressure sensing device 1630 and controller device 1680 are similar to those described above, as explained for the back support device 240, biasing member 243, support panel 245, pressure sensing device 230 and controller device 280.

[0181] The embodiments described in this document provide non-limiting examples of possible implementations of the present technology. Upon reviewing the present disclosure, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of the present technology.

Claims

1. An aircraft seat for installation in an aircraft cabin, the seat comprising: a seat pan frame supporting a seat pan; and A backrest assembly, the backrest assembly comprising: a backrest frame connected to the seat pan frame, the backrest frame supporting a backrest surface; a pressure sensing device attached to the backrest surface to detect pressure received in a plurality of regions of the backrest surface; and a back support device attached to the back frame and configured to displace a portion of the back surface based on pressure detected in at least one of the plurality of regions of the back surface; and A controller device is connected to the pressure sensing arrangement and the back support device and is configured to control the displacement of the portion of the backrest surface caused by the back support device.

2. The aircraft seat according to claim 1, wherein: The pressure sensing device includes a resistive pressure sensor.

3. The aircraft seat according to claim 2, wherein: The resistive pressure sensor includes a Velostat TM .

4. The aircraft seat according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of regions correspond to one or more of the following regions: a lumbar region, an upper back region, a right cushion region, and a left cushion region of the backrest surface.

5. The aircraft seat according to claim 1, wherein: The back support apparatus includes a support panel, and a biasing member; the support panel is configured to deform and subsequently displace the portion of the backrest surface by a force applied by the biasing member.

6. The aircraft seat according to claim 5, wherein: The biasing member includes a spring made of nickel titanium or nitinol.

7. The aircraft seat according to claim 6, wherein: The controller device is configured to: receiving data from the pressure sensing device; calculating, based on the received data, a respective average pressure value in each of the plurality of regions of the backrest surface; calculating an error value based on the corresponding average pressure value; determining a target state of the biasing member based on the error value; as well as An electronic signal representing a command is sent to control current flow in the biasing member based on the target state.

8. The aircraft seat according to claim 7, wherein: The controller device comprises a current controller, and the command is sent to the current controller to adjust the current in the biasing member.

9. The aircraft seat according to claim 7, wherein: The target state includes one of: actuated, deactuated, and held position.

10. The aircraft seat according to claim 7, wherein: A magnitude of the current is determined based on the target state.

11. A back support assembly comprising: a pressure sensing device for attachment to a backrest of a chair to detect pressure received in a plurality of regions of a backrest surface of the backrest; a back support device for attachment to the backrest, the back support device being configured to displace a portion of the backrest surface based on pressure detected in at least one of the plurality of regions of the backrest surface; as well as A controller device is connected to the pressure sensing arrangement and the back support device, the controller device being configured to control displacement of the portion of the backrest surface caused by the back support device.

12. The back support assembly of claim 11, wherein: The pressure sensing device includes a resistive pressure sensor.

13. The back support assembly of claim 12, wherein: The resistive pressure sensor includes a Velostat TM .

14. The back support assembly of claim 11, wherein: The plurality of regions correspond to one or more of the following regions: a lumbar region, an upper back region, a right cushion region, and a left cushion region of the backrest surface.

15. The back support assembly of claim 11, wherein: The back support apparatus includes a support panel, and a biasing member; the support panel is configured to deform and subsequently displace the portion of the backrest surface by a force applied by the biasing member.

16. The back support assembly of claim 15, wherein: The biasing member includes a spring made of nickel titanium or nitinol.

17. The back support assembly of claim 16, wherein: The controller device is configured to: receiving data from the pressure sensing device; calculating, based on the received data, a respective average pressure value in each of the plurality of regions of the backrest surface; calculating an error value based on the corresponding average pressure value; determining a target state of the biasing member based on the error value; as well as An electronic signal representing a command is sent to control current flow in the biasing member based on the target state.

18. The back support assembly of claim 17, wherein: The controller device comprises a current controller, and the command is sent to the current controller to adjust the current in the biasing member.

19. The back support assembly of claim 17, wherein: The target state includes one of: actuated, deactuated, and held position.

20. The back support assembly of claim 17, wherein: A magnitude of the current is determined based on the target state.

21. A backrest pad for attachment to a chair, the pad comprising: a body having a backrest support surface, a top surface, a bottom surface, and a back surface; a pressure sensing device attached to the back support surface to detect pressure received in a plurality of regions of the back support surface; a back support device attached to the pressure sensing device, the back support device configured to displace a portion of the back support surface based on pressure detected by the pressure sensing device in at least one of the plurality of regions of the back support surface; as well as A controller device is connected to the pressure sensing arrangement and the back support device, the controller device being configured to control the displacement of the portion of the back support surface caused by the back support device.

22. The back pad of claim 21 further comprising one or more fasteners for removably attaching to the chair.

23. The back cushion of claim 21, wherein: The back support apparatus includes a support panel, and a biasing member; the support panel is configured to deform and subsequently displace the portion of the back support surface by a force applied by the biasing member.

24. The back cushion of claim 21, wherein: The pressure sensing device includes a resistive pressure sensor.

25. The back cushion of claim 22, wherein: The resistive pressure sensor includes a Velostat TM .

26. The back cushion of claim 21, wherein: The plurality of regions correspond to one or more of the following regions: a lumbar region, an upper back region, a right cushion region, and a left cushion region of the back support surface.

27. The back cushion of claim 21, wherein: The back support apparatus includes a support panel, and a biasing member; the support panel is configured to deform and subsequently displace the portion of the back support surface by a force applied by the biasing member.

28. The back cushion of claim 27, wherein: The biasing member includes a spring made of nickel titanium or nitinol.

29. The back cushion of claim 28, wherein: The controller device is configured to: receiving data from the pressure sensing device; calculating, based on the received data, a respective average pressure value in each of the plurality of regions of the back support surface; calculating an error value based on the corresponding average pressure value; determining a target state of the biasing member based on the error value; as well as An electronic signal representing a command is sent to control current flow in the biasing member based on the target state.

30. The back cushion of claim 29, wherein: The controller device comprises a current controller, and the command is sent to the current controller to adjust the current in the biasing member.

31. The back cushion of claim 29, wherein: The target state includes one of: actuated, deactuated, and held position.

32. The back cushion of claim 29, wherein: A magnitude of the current is determined based on the target state.

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