Articulating Armrests for Multi-Config Vehicle Seating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle seating designs are inadequate for autonomous vehicles, which require greater occupant freedom of movement and flexibility in seating configurations.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle seating arrangement featuring articulating armrests that can pivot, slide, and adjust between various positions, allowing for multiple configurations such as captain's chairs, couches, and loveseats, facilitated by a rail system and propulsion features for manual or automated movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional vehicle seating designs are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but occupant freedom of movement and seating flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest is divided into multiple independent components: a support member coupled to the seat-base, a bolster coupled to the support member, and propulsion features. This segmentation allows each component to move independently, enabling multiple seating configurations while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The armrest transitions from a static component to a dynamic one through the addition of propulsion features that enable the support member to move vertically and the bolster to pivot and slide. This dynamic capability allows the seating assembly to adapt between different configurations (captain's chair, couch, loveseat) in response to occupant needs
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed armrest positions are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but multiple seating configurations cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest assembly is designed as a universal component that can serve multiple functions: providing arm support in vertical position, forming couch surfaces when lowered, and creating loveseat configurations through bolster movement. The same support member and bolster components enable different seating arrangements without requiring separate parts for each configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The support member acts as an intermediary between the fixed seat-base and the movable bolster. It translates vertical movement into configuration changes while providing a stable mounting point for the bolster's pivot and slide movements, facilitating complex configurations through coordinated component interaction
3Ease of operation
If armrests are made stationary, then structural stability is maintained, but occupant comfort and freedom of movement are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion features enable the armrest components to move and reposition themselves automatically or through minimal occupant input. The support member can move vertically and the bolster can pivot and slide without requiring manual manipulation, allowing the structure to adapt to occupant needs while maintaining stability through controlled movement mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The armrest structure changes its physical parameters (vertical position of support member, angular position of bolster, horizontal position of bolster) to adapt between configurations. These parameter changes enable the armrest to provide appropriate support and comfort for different seating arrangements while maintaining structural integrity through defined movement ranges
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seating arrangement includes a rail system that has a plurality of lateral and longitudinal rails. The vehicle seating arrangement also includes at least one seating assembly coupled to the rail system. The seating assembly includes one or more armrests coupled to a seat-base. The armrests are configured for articulation in a vertical direction relative to the seat-base. The armrests enable the seating assembly to transition between captains' chair, loveseat, and bed configurations.