Armrest assembly with adjustable mounting shaft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing armrest assemblies in vehicles lack an efficient mechanism for smoothly transitioning between usage and storage positions, often resulting in abrupt movements and a lack of ergonomic comfort.
Innovation Solution
An armrest assembly with dual shafts and a rotational damper system that allows controlled movement between usage and storage positions, utilizing bushings and inserts for low friction rotation, and a detent mechanism for precise positioning, along with a resilient washer for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple pivotable connection is used for the armrest assembly, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the movement between positions is abrupt and lacks ergonomic comfort
Solution Approach 1:
A rotational damper is introduced as an intermediary component between the armrest assembly and the seat. This damper includes a piston and damper rod that mediate the movement, providing controlled damping force to achieve smooth transitions between usage and storage positions while preventing abrupt movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting mechanism transitions from a fixed rigid connection to an adjustable connection with variable damping characteristics. The rotational damper allows the mounting parameters (damping force, movement resistance) to be changed based on the position and usage requirements, enabling smooth controlled movement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed mounting structure is used for the armrest, then the attachment is secure and stable, but the armrest cannot be moved between positions
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic adjustable connection. The rotational damper enables the armrest to move between fixed positions (usage position and storage position) while maintaining stable attachment at each position through the damping mechanism's resistance force.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting mechanism is segmented into separate functional components: a first shaft for rotational movement, a second shaft for axial movement, bushings for low-friction rotation, and a rotational damper for controlled damping. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while working together to achieve both movability and stability.
3Ease of operation
If a complex damping mechanism is added to control movement, then the transitions become smooth and controlled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational damper is integrated with the mounting shafts and bushings into a unified mounting mechanism. The damper rod connects to the armrest assembly while the piston moves within the damper, combining the damping function with the existing rotational and axial movement capabilities in a compact integrated structure.
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
Facilitates smooth, controlled transitions between armrest positions, enhancing ergonomic comfort and reducing abrupt movements, while providing secure attachment and damping to prevent sudden shifts.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing bushings and inserts for low friction rotation
Implementation Method 2
A rotational damper is integrated into the mounting mechanism and includes a piston and damper rod that extend along the armrest axis
Implementation Method 3
along with a resilient washer for secure attachment
Data Source
AI summary
An armrest assembly includes an armrest body. A first shaft extends from a first side of the armrest body along an armrest axis and is attached to the armrest body for relative rotational movement about the armrest axis. A second shaft extends from a second side of the armrest body along the armrest axis and is attached to the armrest body for relative rotational movement about the armrest axis and relative axial movement.