Armrest Rotary Positioning with Detent Locking Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary positioning devices for armrests are unstable due to inadvertent rotation caused by user forces, failing to maintain a comfortable and secure position for users of varying sizes and preferences.
Innovation Solution
A rotary positioning device comprising a positioning member, a base, a sliding member, a detent member, and an elastic member, where the sliding member is selectively switchable between locked and unlocked positions, allowing the base to rotate or remain stable by engaging or disengaging with the positioning member's recesses, utilizing an elastic member for automatic return to the locked position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the armrest is made selectively rotatable in relation to the support member, then the adaptability for different users is improved, but the stability of the armrest position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest assembly transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic system with multiple discrete positions. The base is made rotatable relative to the positioning member, allowing the armrest to be adjusted to different angles. The detent member enables the system to dynamically switch between locked positions at different angles, providing both adjustability and stability at each position.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotational range of the base is segmented into multiple discrete positions by providing several first engaging recesses on the positioning member. Each recess corresponds to a specific angular position. The detent member engages with these segmented positions to provide stable stopping points, allowing users to select from multiple predetermined angles rather than continuous rotation.
2Ease of operation
If the armrest is made rotatable for user comfort, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of maintaining position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The detent member is designed to automatically engage with the first engaging recesses to prevent inadvertent rotation. When the base rotates to a position where a recess aligns with the detent, the detent automatically engages, creating a preliminary counter-action that prevents the armrest from moving further or accidentally shifting during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning mechanism is designed to be self-locking through the interaction between the detent member and the engaging recesses. When the base is rotated to a desired position, the detent member automatically engages with the corresponding recess without requiring additional locking actions from the user. The elastic member provides automatic return force to ensure reliable engagement.
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
The device provides a stable and adjustable armrest configuration, ensuring the base remains fixed or rotates as needed, accommodating different user preferences and sizes, thereby enhancing user comfort and stability.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member (50), wherein the elastic member (50) has a first end connected to the first connecting portion (221) of the sliding recess (22), and a second end connected to a second connecting portion (341) of the distal end (34) of the sliding member (30)
Data Source
AI summary
A rotary positioning device for an armrest includes a positioning member, a base, a sliding member, and a detent member. The positioning member includes a plurality of first engaging recesses formed at a side edge thereof. The base is rotatably connected to the positioning member. The sliding member is slidably arranged in base and is selectively switchable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The detent member is movably arranged in the base and is selectively engaged with one of the plurality of first engaging recesses to correspond to the locked position or the unlocked position of the sliding member.