Single-Handed Backrest Inclination Adjustment With Traction Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustment mechanisms for objects relative to structures, such as stroller backrests, require simultaneous two-handed operation, making them impractical and inefficient, and often involve unreliable locking mechanisms or complex designs.
Innovation Solution
A traction element with an adjustable section that automatically shortens during adjustment, combined with a locking mechanism using positively interlocking elements, allows single-handed adjustment and secure locking of the object's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a linkage with toothed or knurled wheel is used for backrest adjustment, then the backrest can be adjusted to different positions, but two hands are required for operation which reduces ease of use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the force transmission function from a traditional gearbox and replaces it with a traction element system. The traction element is connected directly to the backrest and frame, eliminating the need for complex linkages and toothed wheels. This allows the backrest to be adjusted by simply pulling the traction element, reducing the operation to a single-handed action while maintaining adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a mechanism that requires turning a wheel to move the backrest, the patent inverts the approach by allowing direct linear movement of the traction element to control backrest position. The adjustment is achieved by pulling the traction element in the direction of desired movement, rather than rotating a control element perpendicular to the movement direction.
2Productivity
If a clamping mechanism with webbing strap is used, then the backrest can be locked in position, but two hands are still required for adjustment which reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The traction element system is designed to be self-servicing during adjustment. When the backrest is moved to a new position, the traction element automatically tensions and locks itself without requiring manual intervention from a second hand. The system uses the movement itself to create the locking action, eliminating the need for separate locking operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a preliminary locking action through the traction element's design. Before the backrest reaches its final position, the traction element begins to tension and prepare the locking mechanism. This preliminary action ensures that the locking occurs automatically as part of the adjustment motion, rather than requiring a separate locking step.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an elastic band extends outside the housing along the back of the seat, then adjustment is possible, but the overall design becomes significantly more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the traction element within the housing structure rather than having it extend externally. The traction element is routed through channels and guides inside the housing, with only the necessary portions exposed for operation. This nesting approach maintains the adjustment capability while integrating the mechanism into the existing housing, avoiding the need for external elastic bands running along the back of the seat.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention is directed towards a device for adjusting the height or the distance or the inclination of an object in relation to a structure to which the object is displaceably or pivotably connected, in particular for adjusting the inclination of a backrest of a pushchair in relation to the chassis thereof, comprising a pulling means which has at least one length-adjustable strand which is connected in the region of one of its ends to the structure and in the region of its other end to the object.