Armrest Adjuster with Button-Free Multi-Directional Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional armrest adjusters are limited in their ability to adjust in multiple directions without buttons, require complex assembly with multiple metal fasteners, and have a fixed structure that increases manufacturing costs and environmental impact.
Innovation Solution
A button-free armrest adjuster design that allows for fore-and-aft, lateral, and rotational adjustments with or without damping, featuring a reduced side-view height and simplified installation, using a combination of components like shaft covers, dampers, and a press member with a control mechanism for easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional armrest adjusters use button control mode for adjustment, then the armrest can be adjusted in various directions, but users need to press buttons which reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the button control mechanism entirely, extracting the unnecessary intermediary control element. The armrest adjustment is achieved directly through force applied to the armrest body, which transmits force through the first component to rotate the second component and adjust the armrest angle, eliminating the need for buttons and simplifying the control mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The armrest adjuster enables self-service adjustment where users can directly manipulate the armrest body without external control inputs. The force applied by the user is transmitted through the mechanical linkage (first component, second component, projecting shaft) to achieve automatic adjustment, making the system self-regulating and eliminating the need for button presses.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional armrests are divided into button control mode and button-free control mode, then different user needs can be met, but manufacturers cannot easily replace armrests and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal armrest adjuster structure that can accommodate different adjustment modes through configuration changes rather than structural redesign. The first component, second component, and projecting shaft mechanism can serve both button-controlled and button-free operations by simply adding or removing the button assembly, allowing manufacturers to produce a single base model that adapts to different market requirements without increasing manufacturing complexity.
3Reliability
If plurality of metal fasteners is used to assembly conventional armrest, then the armrest can be assembled, but the installation becomes complex and assembly cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fastening functions into integrated connection structures. The first component and second component are designed with built-in connection features that combine positioning, securing, and alignment functions into single elements, eliminating the need for multiple separate metal fasteners. The projecting shaft mechanism integrates the rotation and securing functions, reducing the overall number of fastening components while maintaining assembly reliability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If armrest pad is disposed on top surface of armrest support with certain height, then rotational adjustment and fore-and-aft adjustment can be achieved, but the side view height affects appearance and limits armrest support types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves adjustment functionality by utilizing rotational movement around the projecting shaft axis rather than requiring vertical height. The second component rotates around the horizontal projecting shaft, allowing fore-and-aft and lateral adjustments in the horizontal plane, eliminating the need for increased side-view height. This dimensional shift enables full adjustment capability while maintaining a compact vertical profile that preserves chair appearance and compatibility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances user convenience, reduces manufacturing costs, and minimizes environmental impact by allowing flexible adjustment without buttons and simplifying assembly, while maintaining the appearance and functionality of the chair.
Implementation Method 1
at least one damper... with/or without damping action
Data Source
AI summary
An armrest adjuster is revealed. The armrest adjuster includes an armrest disposed on a top surface of an armrest support. The armrest consists of an armrest pad, an armrest base connected to an armrest cover of the armrest pad to form an armrest body, a first component, a second component fixed between the armrest base and the top surface of the armrest support and arranged with a projecting shaft thereof in the fore-and-aft direction, a first shaft cover, a second shaft cover, and at least one damper. The armrest can not only be changed between a button-free mode and a button mode easily, but also can be installed optionally for adjustment in fore-and-aft direction or lateral direction, or rotation from side to side, with/or without damping action. Thereby the armrest is easy to be installed and the side-view height of the armrest can be reduced.