Multi-Density Aircraft Seat and Headrest for Ergonomic Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rotorcraft passenger seats lack ergonomic design, failing to provide adequate thigh, lower back, and lumbar support, with flat headrests that do not cradle the passenger's head, and existing mechanisms for support are prone to failure.
Innovation Solution
An ergonomically designed seat and headrest assembly with multiple layers of foam materials of varying densities and contours to provide lumbar, thigh, and lateral support, along with a contoured headrest to cradle the head, enhancing passenger comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional flat headrests and simple seat structures are used, then device complexity is reduced, but passenger comfort and ergonomic support are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The seat cushion is divided into multiple foam layers with different densities (first foam layer, second foam layer, third foam layer) to provide differentiated support zones for lumbar, thigh, and lateral regions. The headrest is segmented into support portion and platform portion to cradle the head and accommodate headsets separately
Solution Approach 2:
Each foam layer is positioned to provide specific localized support: the first foam layer (highest density) provides lumbar support, the second foam layer provides thigh support, and the third foam layer provides lateral support. The headrest's support portion cradles the head while the platform portion accommodates headsets
2Ease of operation
If complex support mechanisms are added to provide lumbar, thigh, and lateral support, then passenger comfort is improved, but reliability decreases due to mechanism failure
Solution Approach 1:
The seat utilizes the passenger's body weight and position to automatically activate the foam layers' support functions. The multi-density foam structure self-adjusts to the passenger's contours without requiring mechanical actuators, motors, or control systems, eliminating mechanism failure risks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex, expensive, and unreliable mechanical support mechanisms with simple, durable foam layers that have no moving parts. The foam materials are inexpensive, maintenance-free, and inherently reliable compared to mechanical systems
3Ease of operation
If flat headrests are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but head support and cradling function are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest's support portion is contoured with curved surfaces that match the natural curvature of the human head and neck. This ergonomic curvature provides optimal cradling support while remaining manufacturable through standard foam molding techniques
Data Source
AI summary
A seat assembly for a vehicle includes a seat portion comprising a seat back including a first layer comprising a first foam material having a first density; a second layer on the first layer and comprising a second foam material having a second density less than the first density; and a third layer on the second layer and comprising a third foam material having a third density less than the second density. The seat portion further comprises a seat base including a fourth layer comprising a fourth foam material having a fourth density; a fifth layer on the fourth layer and comprising a fifth foam material having a fifth density less than the fourth density; and a sixth layer on the fifth layer and comprising a sixth foam material having a sixth density less than the fifth density. A headrest configured to stow a headset is also provided.