Articulating head restraint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing headrests have complex assembly processes and require high force to release the locking mechanism, often resulting in undesirable angle discrepancies between the right and left sides when adjusting the inclination.
Innovation Solution
A headrest design featuring a U-shaped holding means with rotatable locking mechanisms and integrated form-fitting toothed racks, where the support structure can be adjusted in one direction without unlocking, and a spring mechanism that automatically retracts the headrest to its initial position upon unlocking, reducing the number of components and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms are used with separate components, then the headrest can be fixed in position, but the assembly process becomes complex and requires many components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the locking means directly into the support structure as a single integrated component. The locking means includes a locking element that engages with the holding rod and a spring element that provides automatic locking force, eliminating the need for separate locking components and simplifying assembly while maintaining reliable positioning.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is used to fix the headrest in position, then the headrest remains stable, but high force is required to release the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses a spring element that provides dynamic locking force. The spring automatically engages the locking element with the holding rod to maintain stable positioning, but when adjustment force is applied, the spring can be easily compressed to release the lock, allowing easy adjustment without requiring high release force.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the headrest allows free adjustment in both directions, then adjustability is improved, but angle discrepancies occur between right and left sides
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed with asymmetric engagement characteristics. The locking element engages with the holding rod in a direction that prevents backward movement beyond the locked position, while allowing forward adjustment. This asymmetric design ensures that both right and left sides maintain consistent angles by preventing differential movement.
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 design simplifies assembly, reduces the force required to adjust the headrest, ensures consistent angle settings on both sides, and automatically returns the headrest to its initial position, enhancing user convenience and safety.
Implementation Method 1
the locking means is connected to a spring means, which pretensions the locking means in the direction of the positive-locking means provided on the support structure
Data Source
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Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a head restraint in which the angle of inclination of a support structure relative to a holding means, in particular a holding bar, can be adjusted.