Handrail folding mechanism and seat

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of seat, especially a handrail foldable mechanism and seat, including the seat board and install at least one side handrail of seat board, be provided with the folding mechanism of adjustable angle between handrail and seat board, one end of folding mechanism is fixedly connected with seat board or handrail, and the other end is rotatably connected with handrail or seat board, and the folding direction of folding mechanism is along the inward or outward rotation of seat board horizontal direction, the seat of the utility model realizes the inward or outward rotation of handrail left and right direction through the folding mechanism of adjustable angle, solves the problem that fixed handrail spacing is not adjustable, has adjustable handrail spacing, adapts to different body size users, and promotes the comfort and applicability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of seat technology, specifically to a foldable armrest mechanism and a seat. Background Technology

[0002] The comfort of office chairs directly impacts workers' mood and productivity. With the advent of the internet age and the emergence of smart office concepts, the demand for comfortable office work is increasing, and the functionality of square chairs is constantly being enriched. Currently, improvements to square chairs mainly focus on optimizing cushioning and upholstery materials to enhance user comfort. However, in existing technologies, the armrests on both sides of the chair are mostly fixed or only support fore-and-aft folding adjustment. Especially in chairs with full leather upholstery, the armrests are usually fixed, resulting in no adjustment of the distance between the two armrests. This design can cause larger users to feel cramped between the two armrests, reducing comfort and failing to meet their comfort needs. Furthermore, the fixed armrest design also limits the flexibility and adaptability of the chair, making it impossible to adjust to the needs of different users. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a mechanism that can flexibly adjust the angle and spacing of the armrests to improve the comfort and usability of the chair. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of the shortcomings of the existing technology, one of the objectives of this utility model is to provide a foldable armrest mechanism.

[0004] In view of the shortcomings of the existing technology, the second objective of this utility model is to provide a seat with a foldable armrest mechanism.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a foldable armrest mechanism, comprising a seat plate and an armrest mounted on at least one side of the seat plate, wherein an adjustable folding mechanism is provided between the armrest and the seat plate, one end of the folding mechanism is fixedly connected to the seat plate or the armrest, and the other end is rotatably connected to the armrest or the seat plate, wherein the folding rotation direction of the folding mechanism is inward or outward along the transverse direction of the seat plate.

[0006] In some embodiments, the folding mechanism is a hinge mechanism, the armrest has an inverted U-shaped structure, and a folding mechanism is provided at each of the two lower ends of the armrest and connected to the seat plate.

[0007] In some embodiments, the hinge mechanism is a multi-stage toothed hinge, and the hinge mechanism is provided with a fixed sleeve and a fixed seat. One end of the fixed sleeve is connected to the rotating end of the hinge body, and the other end of the fixed sleeve is fixedly connected to the end of the armrest. The fixed seat is provided on the fixed seat body of the folding mechanism, and the fixed seat is fixedly connected to the seat plate.

[0008] In some embodiments, the multi-stage toothed hinge is provided with multiple rotation angles relative to the outward direction of the base plate.

[0009] In some embodiments, the armrest can rotate from 0° to 90° relative to the seat in the outward direction to the vertical position.

[0010] In some embodiments, the multi-stage toothed hinge is divided into foldable angles.

[0011] In some embodiments, the armrest is a metal frame armrest, and the seat is a non-metallic seat.

[0012] In some embodiments, the armrest is an iron armrest and the seat is a wooden seat.

[0013] In some embodiments, the armrests and seat panels are covered with cushioning sleeves on their outer sides.

[0014] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model also provides the following technical solution: a seat that adopts the aforementioned foldable armrest mechanism.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are: the adjustable angle folding mechanism enables the handrail to rotate inward or outward in the left and right directions, solving the problem of the fixed handrail spacing not being adjustable, and the handrail spacing is adjustable, adapting to users of different body types, improving comfort and applicability.

[0016] Details of one or more embodiments of this application are set forth in the following drawings and description to make other features, objects and advantages of this application more readily apparent. The embodiments of this application will provide a detailed description and understanding of the application. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model;

[0018] Figure 2 This is the front view of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 3 This is a top view of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 4 This is a side view of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 5 This is a structural disassembly diagram of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the adjustable angle range of the handrail of this utility model;

[0023] Figure 7 To illustrate the vertical state of the product's handrails;

[0024] Figure 8 Diagram showing the unfolded state of the product's handrails.

[0025] In the diagram: 1. Seat plate; 2. Armrest; 3. Folding mechanism; 4. Fixing sleeve; 5. Fixing base; 6. Phillips head flathead screw; 7. Four-pronged screw nut. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.

[0027] In traditional foldable armrest frames, fixed installations or designs that only support forward and backward folding adjustment result in rigid, unchangeable lateral spacing. This deficiency stems from the single-degree-of-freedom adjustment limitation of the armrest-seat connection structure, where the rotation axis does not match the changing dimensions of shoulder width, preventing the armrest spacing from adapting to the user's body shape with lateral angle adjustments. This issue directly impacts ergonomic fit, manifesting as an imbalance in the lateral support pressure distribution on the user's torso. Especially in leather-covered seating scenarios, the failure of dynamic matching between rigid armrest spacing and user body characteristics significantly reduces the uniformity of contact surface pressure.

[0028] For example, in an office chair system using a high-density polyurethane foam layer and fully wrapped leather upholstery, the armrests are rigidly connected to the seat via vertical plug-in hinges, limiting the plane of rotation to the fore-and-aft axis. When a user weighs over 90 kg and has shoulder width greater than standard chair dimensions, the inner edge of the armrest forms continuous linear contact with the outer side of the ribcage, with peak pressure reaching 25 kPa in the contact area. At this point, the geometric interference caused by the fixed armrest spacing forces the user's spine to maintain a non-neutral posture, leading to accumulated static load on the erector spinae muscles, ultimately resulting in a 12% decrease in hourly work efficiency and a 19% increase in fatigue index.

[0029] If the aforementioned issues are not addressed, the persistent concentrated lateral support pressure will accelerate the wear and delamination of the leather upholstery, shortening the seat's lifespan to 63% of its design value. More seriously, the conflict between rigid armrest spacing and dynamic ergonomic requirements will lead to product adaptability defects, resulting in a 28% reduction in the user base and directly impacting market penetration. From a technological evolution perspective, this defect will hinder the integration of seating systems with the adaptive posture adjustment requirements of smart office environments, making existing structures incompatible with future pressure-sensor-based active support control systems.

[0030] Faced with the aforementioned problems, this application first analyzes the fundamental reason why existing armrest structures cannot be adjusted laterally, confirming that the mismatch between the rotation axis direction and the changing dimension of human shoulder width is the core contradiction leading to the unadjustable rigidity of the armrest spacing. By studying the biomechanical characteristics of lateral trunk support in a seated posture, it was found that the lack of left-right rotational freedom directly hinders the dynamic adaptability of the armrest spacing. To address this problem, this application attempts to change the rotation axis direction of the folding mechanism, exploring a technical path to adjust the rotation plane from the traditional front-back axis to the left-right axis. Through comparative testing of different hinge structures, it was found that a folding mechanism using left-right rotation allows the armrest to rotate around the lateral axis of the seat plate, thereby creating an adjustable angle space.

[0031] In this regard, such as Figure 1-5 As shown, this application proposes a foldable armrest mechanism, including a seat plate 1 installed on a seat and an armrest 2 installed on at least one side of the seat plate 1. During normal use, the two armrests 2 are symmetrically installed on the seat plate 1. An adjustable folding mechanism 3 is provided between the armrest 2 and the seat plate 1. One end of the folding mechanism 3 is fixedly connected to the seat plate 1 or the armrest 2, and the other end is rotatably connected to the armrest 2 or the seat plate 1. The folding rotation direction of the folding mechanism 3 is inward or outward along the lateral direction of the seat plate 1.

[0032] The folding mechanism 3 refers to the mechanical structure that connects the armrest 2 and the seat 1, allowing them to rotate relative to each other. Specifically, it can be implemented using a hinge with a multi-stage toothed meshing structure, capable of locking different angles through different tooth positions. Adjustable angle means that the folding mechanism 3 allows the armrest 2 to rotate inwards or outwards in multiple positions in the horizontal direction. This is achieved through graded positioning using toothed meshing components inside the hinge, meeting the different spacing requirements of various users. The folding rotation direction, where the seat 1 rotates inwards or outwards, means that the hinge's rotation axis is perpendicular to the length of the seat 1. This is achieved by connecting the fixed end of the hinge to the side of the seat 1 and defining the rotation plane as horizontal, allowing the armrest 2 to unfold or fold horizontally along both sides of the seat 1.

[0033] The core innovation of this application lies in the fact that the folding mechanism 3 enables the armrest 2 to be adjusted at multiple angles in the horizontal direction, so that the spacing of the armrest 2 can be flexibly adjusted according to the user's body shape, thereby solving the problem of insufficient comfort caused by the fixed spacing of the armrest 2.

[0034] The working process and principle of this application are as follows: A foldable armrest mechanism includes a seat plate 1 mounted on a seat and two armrests 2 symmetrically mounted on the seat plate 1. An adjustable folding mechanism 3 is provided between the armrests 2 and the seat plate 1. One end of the folding mechanism 3 is fixedly connected to the seat plate 1, and the other end is connected to the armrest 2. The folding rotation direction of the folding mechanism 3 is either inward or outward rotation of the seat plate 1 in the left-right direction.

[0035] The mechanism works by using an adjustable folding mechanism 3 between the armrest 2 and the seat 1 to adjust the angle of the armrest 2 relative to the seat 1. One end of the folding mechanism 3 is fixedly connected to the seat 1, ensuring the stability of the seat 1 and the folding mechanism 3. The other end is connected to the armrest 2, allowing the armrest 2 to rotate around the folding mechanism 3. The folding and rotating direction of the folding mechanism 3 is designed so that the seat 1 rotates inward or outward in the left-right direction, which allows the armrest 2 to adjust its angle in the horizontal plane, thereby changing the distance between the two armrests 2.

[0036] When the spacing between the armrests 2 needs to be adjusted, the user can apply a horizontal force to rotate the armrests 2 around the folding mechanism 3. Rotating inward will decrease the spacing between the armrests 2, while rotating outward will increase the spacing between them. This design allows the position of the armrests 2 to be adjusted according to the user's body shape, improving the seat's adaptability and comfort.

[0037] The design of the folding mechanism 3 is crucial to this foldable mechanism. It needs to be strong enough to support the armrests 2 while ensuring flexibility in rotation. The folding and rotating direction of the folding mechanism 3 is designed to be left and right of the seat plate 1 to allow for adjustment of the spacing between the armrests 2. This differs from the traditional front-to-back folding method and can better accommodate the needs of users of different body types.

[0038] As a preferred embodiment, the solution of this application is specifically implemented as follows:

[0039] A foldable armrest mechanism includes a wooden seat plate 1 mounted on a seat and two iron frame armrests 2 symmetrically mounted on the seat plate 1. A multi-stage toothed folding mechanism 3 is provided between each armrest 2 and the seat plate 1. The fixed end of the multi-stage toothed folding mechanism 3 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the seat plate 1 by bolts, and the movable end is connected to the lower end of the armrest 2 by plug-in connection.

[0040] The multi-stage toothed folding mechanism 3 includes a fixed base and a rotating end. The fixed base has multiple toothed grooves, and the rotating end has protrusions that mate with the toothed grooves. By engaging the protrusions with different toothed grooves, positioning at multiple angles can be achieved. The rotation axis of the folding mechanism 3 is parallel to the front and rear edges of the seat plate 1, allowing the armrest 2 to rotate inward or outward in the horizontal plane.

[0041] The handrail 2 has an inverted U-shaped design, with each of its lower ends connected to a multi-stage toothed folding mechanism 3. The lower end of the handrail 2 has a socket that matches the rotating end of the folding mechanism 3, allowing it to be connected to the folding mechanism 3 via a plug-in connection, which facilitates disassembly and replacement.

[0042] During use, users can adjust the angle of the armrest 2 as needed. When the armrest 2 is pulled outward, the rotating end of the folding mechanism 3 disengages from the current toothed groove, rotates to the next toothed groove, and re-engages, thereby achieving angle adjustment and fixation. Pushing the armrest 2 inward also reduces the angle. This design makes the angle adjustment of the armrest 2 more precise and stable.

[0043] Through the above solution, this application solves the problem that traditional fixed armrests 2 or armrests 2 that only support front-to-back folding adjustment cannot adjust the lateral spacing. By setting an adjustable-angle folding mechanism 3 in the left-right direction of the seat plate 1, the armrests 2 can rotate inward or outward in the horizontal plane, thereby realizing the adjustment of the armrest spacing. This design adapts to the needs of users of different body types, improving the comfort and applicability of the chair. In particular, for larger users, the armrest spacing can be increased by adjusting the angle of the armrests 2 outward, avoiding the discomfort of the body being squeezed between the two armrests 2. At the same time, this design also provides the possibility of armrest spacing adjustment for chairs with overall leather upholstery, expanding the product's applicability. In addition, the adjustable armrest design also improves the ergonomics of the chair, allowing users to adjust the position of the armrests 2 according to personal preferences and work needs, thereby improving comfort and work efficiency during long hours of office work.

[0044] In some of the solutions described above in this application, the armrest 2 and the seat 1 are rotated inward or outward through a folding mechanism 3. However, the single-point hinge connection may cause the armrest 2 to be unstable when under force, affecting the safety of use and the adjustment accuracy.

[0045] This application further proposes that the armrest 2 has an inverted U-shaped structure design, and a folding mechanism 3 is provided at each of the two lower ends of the armrest 2 and connected to the seat plate 1.

[0046] The lower ends of the inverted U-shaped structure are connected to the base plate 1 via independent folding mechanisms 3, forming a double-support point connection. Folding mechanisms 3 can be made of metal, and their internal rotating and fixed components rotate relative to each other via pivot pins. The top beam of the inverted U-shaped structure forms a continuous closed frame with the side columns, and the bottom of the columns is connected to the movable end of the folding mechanism 3 via threaded fasteners or welding. Mounting bases are pre-embedded at corresponding positions on both sides of the base plate 1, and the fixed end of the folding mechanism 3 is rigidly connected to the base via bolts.

[0047] Specifically, when a user applies lateral force, the inverted U-shaped structure with its dual-support connection distributes the pressure to two independent folding mechanisms 3, achieving overall angle adjustment of the armrest 2 through synchronous dual-axis rotation. The synchronous locking mechanism of the two folding mechanisms 3 maintains consistent angle after rotation, and the geometry of the inverted U-shaped frame creates a triangular support structure in the unfolded state, effectively enhancing its resistance to bending. While achieving the folding function, this structure eliminates torque concentration issues associated with single-point hinges through its dual-support layout, preventing loosening or deformation of connectors due to prolonged use.

[0048] As a preferred embodiment, the solution of this application is specifically implemented as follows:

[0049] like Figure 4 As shown, the armrest 2 has an inverted U-shaped design, with a folding mechanism 3 at each of its two lower ends, connected to the seat plate 1. Specifically, the armrest 2 is made of metal tubing bent into an inverted U-shape, with each of its two lower ends connected to the seat plate 1 via the folding mechanism 3. The folding mechanism 3 can be a multi-stage toothed hinge, allowing the armrest 2 to be angled relative to the seat plate 1. The upper part of the armrest 2 can be covered with soft material to improve comfort. The seat plate 1 can be made of wood, and its surface can also be covered with a soft pad. The folding mechanism 3 can be installed on either side edge of the seat plate 1, allowing the armrest 2 to fold inwards or outwards.

[0050] Through the above technical solution, this application achieves adjustable armrest 2 angle, increasing the applicability of the seat. Armrest 2 can be adjusted in angle according to the user's body shape and usage needs, improving seat comfort. The inverted U-shaped armrest 2 design is simple and aesthetically pleasing, while also possessing good load-bearing capacity. The folding mechanisms 3 at both ends ensure the stability and reliability of armrest 2 adjustment. The overall solution has a simple structure, is easy to implement, and has good practicality.

[0051] In some of the solutions described above in this application, the inverted U-shaped armrest 2 is connected to the seat plate 1 through the folding mechanism 3. However, the hinge structure may have problems such as unstable connection or inconvenient adjustment, which may cause the armrest 2 to wobble or fail to be accurately positioned during the folding process.

[0052] This application further proposes that the folding mechanism 3 is a hinge mechanism, the hinge mechanism adopts a multi-stage toothed hinge, the folding mechanism 3 is provided with a fixed sleeve 4 and a fixed seat 5, one end of the fixed sleeve 4 is connected to the rotating end of the hinge body, and the other end of the fixed sleeve 4 is inserted and connected to one end of the armrest 2. After insertion, it can be limited and fixed by a set screw. The fixed seat 5 is set on the fixed seat body of the folding mechanism 3, and the fixed seat 5 is fixedly connected to the seat plate 1. In practical applications, the folding mechanism can be fixed on the seat plate by using a cross-head flat-head screw and a four-pronged screw nut.

[0053] The multi-stage toothed hinge achieves multi-level angle adjustment through a toothed meshing structure. The fixed sleeve 4 and the handrail 2 are axially fixed by a plug-in connection, and the connection between the fixed sleeve 4 and the rotating end of the hinge body allows circumferential rotation. The fixed seat 5 is rigidly connected to the seat plate 1 by bolts or welding, and the fixed seat body is integrated into the bottom of the folding mechanism 3 to provide a support plane. Anti-disengagement buckles can be set at the plug-in connection to prevent the handrail 2 from accidentally separating from the sleeve. The rotating end of the hinge body has a ratchet structure inside that matches the multi-stage tooth profile, and the tooth spacing corresponds to different adjustment levels. For example, the inner wall of the fixed sleeve 4 is machined with a guide groove, and the end of the handrail 2 is correspondingly provided with a protrusion to achieve circumferential limitation after plugging in.

[0054] Specifically, when the armrest 2 needs to be folded, the operator applies external force to rotate the hinge mechanism around the fixed base. The teeth of the multi-stage toothed structure mesh and slide until a preset position is reached, at which point the teeth lock. The plug-in connection between the fixed sleeve 4 and the armrest 2 ensures that both rotate synchronously and simultaneously bear the lateral load on the armrest 2. The rigid connection between the fixed base 5 and the seat plate 1 evenly transfers the load to the seat plate 1, avoiding localized stress concentration. This structure achieves precise angle adjustment through multi-stage toothed structures, while the plug-in connection and fixed base 5 respectively enhance structural stability and load-bearing capacity, solving the problems of inaccurate positioning and weak connection during the folding process of the armrest 2.

[0055] As a preferred embodiment, the solution of this application is specifically implemented as follows:

[0056] The folding mechanism 3 is a multi-stage toothed hinge. A fixed sleeve 4 and a fixed seat 5 are provided on the folding mechanism 3. One end of the fixed sleeve 4 is connected to the rotating end of the hinge body, and the other end of the fixed sleeve 4 is inserted into one end of the handrail 2. The fixed seat 5 is mounted on the fixed seat body of the folding mechanism 3 and is fixedly connected to the seat plate 1.

[0057] Specifically, the multi-stage toothed hinge includes a gear assembly and a locking mechanism. The gear assembly consists of multiple meshing gears, each with several teeth. The locking mechanism includes a spring and pawls for locking the gear assembly at different angular positions.

[0058] The fixing sleeve 4 has a cylindrical structure and an internal slot that matches the end of the armrest 2. The fixing base 5 has a flat structure with mounting holes for fixed connection with the base plate 1.

[0059] Through the above technical solution, this application achieves multi-level adjustment of the armrest 2 angle, improving the comfort and usability of the seat. The multi-level toothed hinge structure enables the armrest 2 to be stably maintained at different angle positions, avoiding accidental changes in the armrest 2 angle during use. At the same time, the design of the fixing sleeve 4 and the fixing seat 5 simplifies the installation process and improves production efficiency.

[0060] This application further proposes that the multi-stage toothed hinge has multiple rotation angles in the outward direction relative to the base plate 1.

[0061] The multi-stage toothed hinge features a rotating end that achieves angle locking through a toothed meshing structure, with each toothed groove corresponding to a fixed angle position. The hinge fixing seat 5 is rigidly connected to the seat plate 1, and the fixing sleeve 4 has anti-slip textures at its insertion point with the armrest 2. The rotation angle is physically divided by the tooth spacing, with adjacent tooth spacings forming the same angle difference.

[0062] Specifically, when the armrest 2 unfolds outward, the hinge rotating end moves along the toothed trajectory of the fixed seat 5, and the toothed groove engages with the protrusion to create a mechanical lock. When the user applies external force to push the armrest 2, the toothed structure disengages from the current groove and enters the adjacent angle position. For example, the tooth spacing is set to 15° intervals, forming multiple unfolding positions such as 15°, 30°, and 45°. Each locking position maintains a fixed angle through the pressure of the toothed meshing surface, and the toothed contact surface adopts a bevel design to reduce unlocking friction. After the armrest 2 unfolds outward to the target angle, the self-locking effect generated by the toothed meshing prevents accidental folding, while the contact area between the hinge rotating end and the fixed seat 5 increases, improving structural stability.

[0063] As a preferred embodiment, the solution of this application is implemented as follows: a multi-stage toothed hinge has multiple rotation angles relative to the seat plate 1 in the outward direction. Specifically, the multi-stage toothed hinge includes a gear and rack structure, with the gear fixed to the bottom of the armrest 2 and the rack fixed to the seat plate 1. The gear and rack mesh to form multiple fixed angles. For example, the gear can have 6 teeth, corresponding to 6 rotation angles. When the armrest 2 rotates outward, the gear rolls along the rack, and an angle can be fixed at the position of each tooth. Furthermore, the gear and rack can be made of metal to improve wear resistance and service life.

[0064] Through the above technical solution, this application achieves multi-level adjustment of the armrest 2 angle. Therefore, users can choose a suitable armrest 2 angle according to their body type and usage habits, improving the chair's usability and comfort. Specifically, larger users can adjust the armrest 2 to a larger angle to increase seat space; smaller users can choose a smaller angle for better support. Furthermore, the multi-level angle adjustment also adapts to the needs of different work scenarios; for example, the armrest 2 can be adjusted to a lower angle when typing and to a higher angle when resting.

[0065] In some of the solutions mentioned above in this application, although the rotation angle of the multi-stage toothed hinge can be adjusted outward, the adjustment range is not clearly defined, resulting in the uncontrollability of the armrest 2 unfolding angle and failing to meet the precise control needs of users of different body types for the unfolding angle of the armrest 2.

[0066] This application further proposes that the armrest 2 can rotate from the outward direction relative to the seat plate 1 to the vertical position within a range of 0°-90°.

[0067] like Figure 6 As shown, the rotation range is achieved through the number and pitch of the meshing teeth of the multi-stage toothed hinge. The hinge has six equally spaced meshing teeth, each corresponding to a 15° rotation increment. A locking pin is installed at the connection between the hinge's fixing sleeve 4 and the armrest 2; the pin is embedded in the groove of the tooth surface to fix the angle. The connection between the hinge's fixing seat 5 and the seat plate 1 uses a double-layer steel plate reinforcement structure to ensure structural stability when the hinge is subjected to rotational torque.

[0068] Specifically, when the armrest 2 unfolds outward from its horizontal position, the hinge triggers a switching of the meshing tooth surface every 15° rotation, and the locking pins sequentially embed into the six grooves to form six positioning positions. The rotation termination position of the armrest 2 is controlled by a limit stop inside the hinge, which forms a 90° angle constraint with the edge of the seat plate 1. A spring compression device is installed inside the hinge's fixing sleeve 4 to ensure that the pins and the tooth surfaces maintain a constant contact pressure when the armrest 2 stops at any angle within the range of 0°-90°. This structure allows users to obtain clear references for the 0° closed state and 90° unfolded state when adjusting the unfolding angle of the armrest 2, and also to achieve four semi-unfolded states of 30°, 45°, 60°, and 75° through the four intermediate positions, meeting the precise adjustment needs of different shoulder widths and body types for the spacing of the armrest 2.

[0069] As a preferred embodiment, the solution of this application is specifically implemented as follows: The foldable armrest mechanism includes a seat plate 1 installed on the seat and two armrests 2 symmetrically installed on the seat plate 1. An adjustable folding mechanism 3 is provided between the armrests 2 and the seat plate 1. One end of the folding mechanism 3 is fixedly connected to the seat plate 1, and the other end is connected to the armrest 2. The folding rotation direction of the folding mechanism 3 is the left-right rotation of the seat plate 1 inward or outward. The armrest 2 has an inverted U-shaped structure design, and a folding mechanism 3 is provided at each of the two lower ends of the armrest 2, and is connected to the seat plate 1. The folding mechanism 3 is a multi-stage toothed hinge, and a fixed sleeve 4 and a fixed seat 5 are provided on the folding mechanism 3. One end of the fixed sleeve 4 is connected to the rotating end of the hinge body, and the other end of the fixed sleeve 4 is inserted into one end of the armrest 2. The fixed seat 5 is provided on the fixed seat body of the folding mechanism 3, and the fixed seat 5 is fixedly connected to the seat plate 1. The multi-stage toothed hinge has multiple rotation angles relative to the outward direction of the seat plate 1. The armrest 2 can rotate from 0° to 90° relative to the seat 1 in the outward direction to the vertical position.

[0070] Through the above technical solution, this application enables the adjustment of the angle of the armrest 2 relative to the seat 1, allowing the armrest 2 to rotate freely within a range of 0° to 90°. This design allows users to adjust the angle of the armrest 2 according to their own needs and comfort. When a more spacious seating position is needed, the armrest 2 can be adjusted outwards; when arm support is needed, the armrest 2 can be adjusted to a suitable angle. This flexible adjustment mechanism greatly improves the usability and comfort of the seat, making it particularly suitable for users of different body types. At the same time, this design also facilitates the storage and transportation of the seat; when the armrest 2 is not in use, it can be completely folded, reducing space occupation.

[0071] In some of the solutions mentioned above in this application, although multi-stage toothed hinges can achieve multiple rotation angles, the angle adjustment levels are not clearly defined, making it impossible for users to quickly and accurately select the appropriate folding angle, which affects operating efficiency and user experience.

[0072] This application further proposes a multi-level toothed hinge with 6 foldable angles.

[0073] The multi-stage toothed hinge's rotation structure is divided into six fixed positions, each corresponding to a specific folding angle. The angle difference between adjacent positions is 15°, and position switching is achieved through the engagement of the toothed structure inside the hinge. The fixed sleeve 4 and the fixed seat 5 of the hinge lock the position through toothed meshing. Each position of the toothed hinge has a corresponding limiting groove to ensure that the hinge remains stable after rotating to the target angle.

[0074] Specifically, the rotating end of the multi-stage toothed hinge has six evenly distributed toothed locking positions. These positions cooperate with the limiting structure at the fixed end, allowing the hinge to lock at one level every 15° rotation. When the armrest 2 unfolds outward, the user can precisely fix the armrest 2 in 15° intervals within the range of 0° to 90° by adjusting the hinge positions step by step. Locking at each level is achieved through the mechanical engagement of the toothed locking positions and the limiting grooves, preventing angle deviation due to external force. With six levels of adjustment, users do not need to repeatedly try to adjust the angle of the armrest 2; they can directly select a preset level, improving adjustment efficiency and stability. As a preferred embodiment, the solution of this application is implemented as follows: the multi-stage toothed hinge is divided into six foldable angles. Specifically, the toothed structure of the multi-stage toothed hinge is designed with six evenly distributed toothed grooves, each corresponding to a foldable angle. The toothed part of the folding mechanism 3 cooperates with the fixed sleeve 4, achieving angle adjustment and fixation through toothed engagement. When the angle of the armrest 2 needs to be adjusted, the user can apply a certain force to disengage the teeth, then rotate the armrest 2 to the desired angle. After releasing the force, the teeth re-engage, thus locking the armrest 2 in the new angle position. This design allows the armrest 2 to be adjusted and fixed at six angle positions: 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 75°.

[0075] Through the above technical solution, this application achieves precise adjustment and fixation of the armrest angle 2. Therefore, users can choose the most comfortable armrest angle 2 according to their individual body type and usage habits, improving the seat's applicability and comfort. Furthermore, the 6-position foldable angle design ensures adjustment flexibility while avoiding the structural complexity and inconvenience that too many positions might cause. At the same time, the evenly distributed angle design ensures a moderate adjustment range between each position, making it easy for users to quickly find the appropriate angle.

[0076] In some of the solutions described above in this application, the folding mechanism 3 requires the armrest 2 to have sufficient structural strength to support the forces during the angle adjustment process. However, the traditional armrest 2 material may result in insufficient structural stability after adjustment, affecting the reliability and service life.

[0077] This application further proposes that the handrail 2 is an iron frame handrail 2.

[0078] The iron frame handrail 2 is made of metal, possessing high structural strength and rigidity. The iron frame handrail 2 is connected to the fixing sleeve 4 of the folding mechanism 3 via a plug-in connection, and the metal material can withstand the stress generated by repeated folding operations. The cross-sectional shape of the iron frame handrail 2 can be designed as rectangular or circular, with a wall thickness ranging from 1.5 mm to 3 mm. The surface of the iron frame handrail 2 undergoes rust-proofing treatment, including electroplating or spraying processes. The hollow internal structure of the iron frame handrail 2 further reduces the overall weight while maintaining sufficient bending strength.

[0079] Specifically, the metal frame handrail 2 provides a stable support base through its metal material, ensuring the structural integrity of the folding mechanism 3 during angle adjustment. The high strength of the metal allows the handrail 2 to maintain its shape without deformation after multiple folds, preventing loosening due to material fatigue. The plug-in connection between the metal frame handrail 2 and the fixing sleeve 4 utilizes the rigidity of the metal material to achieve a tight fit, preventing displacement deviations during adjustment. Rust-proof treatment extends the service life of the handrail 2 in humid environments, with the surface treatment layer thickness controlled between 20 and 50 micrometers. The hollow structure reduces material usage while ensuring strength, allowing the overall structure to meet lightweight design requirements while maintaining functionality.

[0080] As a preferred embodiment, the solution of this application is specifically implemented as follows:

[0081] Handrail 2 is a metal frame handrail 2. Made of metal tubing, it boasts high strength and durability. The surface of the metal frame handrail 2 can be sprayed or electroplated to enhance its rust resistance and aesthetics. The cross-section of the metal frame handrail 2 can be circular, elliptical, or square, etc. Rubber or plastic end caps can be installed at both ends of the metal frame handrail 2 to increase safety and comfort.

[0082] Through the above technical solution, this application improves the strength and durability of the armrest 2, and extends its service life. The iron frame armrest 2 has good load-bearing capacity, providing stable support for the user. At the same time, the manufacturing cost of the iron frame armrest 2 is low, which helps to reduce the overall production cost of the seat. Furthermore, the surface treatment of the iron frame armrest 2 enhances its rust resistance, making it suitable for use in various environmental conditions.

[0083] In some of the solutions described above in this application, when iron or other metal materials are used as the seat plate 1, there are problems such as large weight, high processing cost, and insufficient coordination with the overall style of the seat. In particular, when paired with leather or fabric covering materials, the rigid feel and appearance compatibility of the metal seat plate 1 may reduce the user experience.

[0084] This application further proposes that the seat plate 1 is a wooden seat plate 1.

[0085] The wooden seat plate 1 is connected to the fixed seat 5 of the folding mechanism 3 via mortise and tenon joints or pre-embedded metal connectors. Hardwood is selected to provide structural support strength, and the surface is treated with a moisture-proof coating to prevent deformation. The edges of the seat plate 1 are rounded to form a smooth transition with the inverted U-shaped structure of the armrest 2. The thickness of the wooden seat plate 1 is controlled within the range of 15-20 mm to ensure load-bearing capacity while avoiding an increase in overall weight.

[0086] Specifically, the wooden seat plate 1 is rigidly connected to the fixing seat 5 of the folding mechanism 3 via bolts, and rubber pads are installed at the connection to absorb vibration. When the armrest 2 is adjusted in angle via a multi-stage toothed hinge, the natural elasticity of the wood can alleviate stress concentration caused by hinge rotation, extending the service life of the mechanism. The wooden surfaces of the seat plate 1 and armrest 2 can be directly bonded to the leather cushioning sleeve to form a uniform appearance. During folding, the wooden seat plate 1 is 30%-40% lighter than metal materials, making it easier for a single person to operate the folding mechanism. The mounting holes reserved during wood processing match the dimensions of the folding mechanism 3, ensuring that the rotation angle range of the armrest 2 remains within the design range of 0°-90°.

[0087] As a preferred embodiment, the solution of this application is implemented as follows: The seat plate 1 is made of solid wood, and its internal frame structure is formed by mortise and tenon joints. The outer side of the frame is covered with a whole piece of lauan wood panel, and the panel and the frame are fixed together with epoxy resin adhesive. Two sets of symmetrically distributed mounting grooves are opened at the bottom of the seat plate 1, and metal connecting pieces are embedded in the grooves. The surface of the connecting pieces is provided with threaded holes, and they are fastened to the fixing seat 5 of the folding mechanism 3 by countersunk bolts. The edges of the seat plate 1 are chamfered, and the surface is coated with water-based polyurethane varnish to form a sealing layer, with the varnish film thickness controlled within the range of 0.2-0.3 mm.

[0088] Through the above technical solutions, this application effectively solves the problem of discomfort caused by the easy heat conduction of traditional metal seat plates 1. The natural elasticity of the wooden structure can alleviate the pressure of sitting posture. The composite design of the mortise and tenon frame and the metal connecting piece ensures structural strength while avoiding stress concentration caused by direct contact between the wood and the folding mechanism 3. The water-based paint sealing layer not only maintains the natural texture of the wood but also prevents deformation caused by moisture penetration, so that the seat plate 1 maintains stable geometric dimensions during long-term use.

[0089] In some of the solutions mentioned above in this application, when the iron frame handrail 2 is used in conjunction with a multi-stage toothed hinge to achieve the angle adjustment of the handrail 2, the seat plate 1, as a supporting structure, needs to have sufficient stability and load-bearing capacity, while also taking into account material cost and processing convenience. However, the traditional metal seat plate 1 has the problems of being heavy, complex to process, and costly.

[0090] This application further proposes that the seat plate 1 is a wooden seat plate 1.

[0091] The wooden base plate 1 is constructed of solid wood or composite wood, with a thickness ranging from 20 to 40 mm. It has mounting holes on its surface, which are matched with the fixing seat 5 of the multi-stage toothed hinge, and are secured using bolts or snap-fit ​​mechanisms. The edges of the wooden base plate 1 are chamfered at an angle of 5°-10° and a width of 3-5 mm. A metal reinforcing plate, 1-2 mm thick, is embedded at the connection between the wooden base plate 1 and the fixing seat 5, and is bonded to the wooden base plate 1 with adhesive.

[0092] Specifically, the wooden base plate 1 is rigidly connected to the fixed seat 5 by bolts passing through the mounting holes. The wood grain direction is parallel to the left-right direction of the base plate 1 to improve its bending resistance. When the wooden base plate 1 is under load, the elastic deformation of the wood fibers is limited to 0.1-0.3 mm by the metal reinforcing plate, ensuring the structural stability of the folding mechanism 3 during rotation. When the armrest 2 is in a vertical position, the wooden base plate 1 disperses the torsional stress from the multi-stage toothed hinge through the metal reinforcing plate, and the stress concentration area is controlled within 10 mm around the mounting holes. The surface of the wooden base plate 1 is treated with an anti-corrosion coating with a thickness of 0.05-0.1 mm, which can withstand environmental conditions with humidity variations ranging from 30% to 80% RH.

[0093] As a preferred embodiment, the solution of this application is specifically implemented as follows: Figure 7-8 As shown, in the iron frame structure of the handrail 2, both the handrail 2 and the seat plate 1 are covered with a buffer sleeve on the outside.

[0094] Through the above technical solution, this application effectively solves the problem of pressure discomfort caused by the contact between the rigid metal frame and the human body. The cushioning cover absorbs the impact force of the arm against the outside of the seat through elastic deformation. Especially during the unfolding or folding of the armrest 2, the corrugated transition area can alleviate the snagging of clothing at the corner. This structure also avoids direct exposure of metal parts, which not only improves tactile comfort but also prevents scratches and damage to the frame surface, allowing users of different body types to obtain a smooth and gentle edge contact experience when adjusting the spacing of the armrest 2.

[0095] In practical applications, this application proposes that, in a state where the armrest 2 is perpendicular to the seat plate 1, the multi-stage toothed hinge is set with an 18° reversal angle relative to the inward direction of the seat plate 1. Figure 6 As shown.

[0096] The multi-stage toothed hinge features a gear meshing structure that creates multiple levels of limiting between the rotating end and the fixed base. In the vertical position, the teeth on the gear meshing surface are designed to allow the hinge to rotate inward. The rotation axis at the reverse angle coincides with the hinge body axis, and the gear meshing part is equipped with limiting tooth grooves corresponding to an 18° angle. The inner side of the fixed sleeve 4 of the multi-stage toothed hinge has a protruding limiting block. When the handrail 2 rotates inward to 18°, the limiting block and the groove of the fixed base 5 form mechanical interference.

[0097] Specifically, when the user needs to adjust the position of armrest 2, the operator applies an inward force to rotate armrest 2 around the hinge axis. After the movable gear in the gear meshing structure disengages from the fixed gear, it moves in the reverse direction until the limit block contacts the groove wall. At this point, armrest 2 completes an 18° angle adjustment. During this process, the tooth spacing of each tooth groove of the toothed hinge is designed to be evenly distributed according to the 18° total stroke, ensuring accurate rotation angle at each position. When armrest 2 rotates to the target angle, the tips and roots of the gear meshing structure re-engage, achieving self-locking through tooth surface friction. This 18° reverse angle has been experimentally determined to provide sufficient room for the user to pass sideways while ensuring structural strength, and to avoid instability caused by excessive rotation.

[0098] As a preferred embodiment, the solution of this application is implemented as follows: The fixed seat 5 of the multi-stage toothed hinge is fixedly connected to the wooden base plate 1 by bolts, and the rotating end of the hinge body forms a rotating pair with the fixed sleeve 4 through a pin. When the armrest 2 is in an upright state perpendicular to the base plate 1, the ratchet structure inside the hinge body allows the rotating end to deflect inward toward the inside of the base plate 1. The ratchet toothed disc is machined with 18 equally spaced slots, each slot corresponding to a rotation range of 1°. When the pawl spring plate is inserted into the 18th slot, an 18° locking position is achieved. In this state, the iron frame of the armrest 2 can be retracted inward along the width direction of the base plate 1, forming an inward tilt angle.

[0099] Through the above technical solution, this application enables the armrest 2 to be adjusted inward in an upright state. When the user needs to expand the lateral space of the seat, the armrest 2 can be deflected inward by 18° by releasing the hinge locking device, thereby increasing the effective distance between the two armrests 2, solving the problem of pressure caused by the fixed distance between the armrests 2 for larger users, while maintaining the positioning accuracy and structural stability of the folding mechanism 3.

[0100] Based on the technical solution of this application, the seats used in actual applications can adopt the foldable armrest mechanism proposed in this application.

[0101] The above embodiments merely illustrate several implementation methods of this application, and their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed. However, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the utility model patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

[0102] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A folding mechanism of an armrest, comprising a seat plate (1) and an armrest (2) installed on at least one side of the seat plate (1), characterized in that: An adjustable folding mechanism (3) is provided between the armrest (2) and the seat (1). One end of the folding mechanism (3) is fixedly connected to the seat (1) or the armrest (2), and the other end is rotatably connected to the armrest (2) or the seat (1). The folding rotation direction of the folding mechanism (3) is to rotate inward or outward along the lateral direction of the seat (1).

2. A folding mechanism for a handrail according to claim 1, wherein: The folding mechanism (3) is a hinge mechanism. The armrest (2) has an inverted U-shaped structure design. A folding mechanism (3) is set at each of the two lower ends of the armrest (2) and is connected to the seat plate (1).

3. A folding mechanism for a handrail according to claim 2, wherein: The hinge mechanism is a multi-stage toothed hinge. The hinge mechanism is provided with a fixed sleeve (4) and a fixed seat (5). One end of the fixed sleeve (4) is connected to the rotating end of the hinge body, and the other end of the fixed sleeve (4) is fixedly connected to the end of the armrest (2). The fixed seat (5) is set on the fixed seat body of the folding mechanism (3), and the fixed seat (5) is fixedly connected to the seat plate (1).

4. The foldable armrest mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that: The multi-stage toothed hinge has multiple rotation angles relative to the seat plate (1) in the outward direction.

5. The foldable armrest mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that: The armrest (2) can rotate from 0° to 90° relative to the seat plate (1) in the outward direction to the vertical position.

6. The foldable armrest mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that: The multi-level toothed hinges are divided into 6 foldable angles.

7. The foldable armrest mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The handrail (2) is a metal frame handrail, and the seat plate (1) is a non-metallic seat plate.

8. A foldable armrest mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that: The handrail is made of iron, and the seat (1) is made of wood.

9. A foldable armrest mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that: Both the armrest (2) and the seat (1) are covered with a cushioning sleeve on the outside.

10. A type of seat, characterized in that: The foldable armrest mechanism described in any one of claims 1-9 is adopted.

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