Arc-shaped Seat Support for Rail Vehicle Space Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

In high-speed rail vehicles, existing seat support structures do not efficiently utilize space for luggage storage and multifunctionality, limiting flexibility and passenger convenience.

Innovation Solution

A U-shaped arcuated support element is used to mount seats, allowing for additional storage space beneath the seats, serving as a luggage rack, lighting holder, and display attachment, with a floating arrangement that simplifies cleaning and provides versatile usage options.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If seats are mounted directly on the floor with traditional support structures, then structural stability is ensured, but floor area is occupied and cleaning is difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning accessibilityVSAvoidsupport structure arrangement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support element is configured in an arc-shaped structure that extends in the vertical dimension rather than occupying horizontal floor space. The support element has a first end and a second end spaced apart in the vertical direction, creating a three-dimensional support structure that frames the seat without contacting the floor, thus enabling cleaning accessibility while maintaining structural stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional longitudinal luggage racks are arranged above windows, then luggage storage space is provided, but space utilization efficiency is limited and passenger access is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveluggage storage accessibilityVSAvoidspace utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The arc-shaped support element serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the seat, creates additional storage space beneath the seat, and offers lateral luggage rack functionality. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate longitudinal luggage racks above windows, improving space utilization and accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The support element is divided into distinct functional zones: the upper portion supports the seat, the lower portion creates storage space, and the lateral sections provide luggage rack functionality. This segmentation allows each part to serve its specific purpose efficiently, improving overall space utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If support structures are attached to side walls for lighting and displays, then multifunctionality is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovemultifunctionalityVSAvoidnumber of support structures
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The arc-shaped support element is designed to integrate multiple functions: seat support, storage space creation, lateral luggage rack, and mounting structure for lighting and display elements. By consolidating these functions into a single integrated structure rather than separate components, the invention reduces overall device complexity while maintaining multifunctionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3209521B1Vehicle comprising a seat
Publication Date: 2019.11.06 SIEMENS MOBILITY GMBH
  • EP3209521B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3209521B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3209521B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a vehicle, in particular a rail vehicle (10), comprising at least one seat (40, 50). According to the invention, the seat (40, 50) is mounted on a curved support element (30) and aligned in the longitudinal direction (X) of the vehicle, said support element being secured to a side wall (12) of the vehicle by means of two mutually spaced support element ends (31, 32).