Sliding Boat Lounge Backrest for Safer Multi-Position Seating

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing adjustable seating arrangements in boats are complex, difficult to operate, and pose safety hazards, particularly in motion or when small children are present, due to their reliance on heavy mechanisms and hinges.

Innovation Solution

A lounge assembly with a movable backrest and a simple adjustment mechanism, featuring a sliding and tiltable backrest with a locking mechanism, allowing multiple seating configurations without occupying additional space, and incorporating an internal rail system and adjustable detents for safe and easy operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If complex adjustment mechanisms with hinges are used to provide multiple seating arrangements, then seating versatility is improved, but device complexity and safety hazards increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseating versatilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The backrest is divided into multiple segments that can be independently positioned. The backrest includes a first portion and a second portion that can be adjusted relative to each other, allowing multiple seating configurations without requiring complex hinge mechanisms. Each segment can be positioned at different angles to create various seating arrangements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The backrest is designed to be dynamically adjustable between multiple fixed positions rather than continuously movable. The adjustment mechanism allows the backrest to be positioned at predetermined angles (e.g., upright, reclined, flat) using simple locking mechanisms, reducing complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If heavy seats with complex mechanisms are used to achieve adjustable positions, then seating functionality is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseating functionalityVSAvoidoperation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Complex mechanical hinge systems are replaced with a simpler adjustment mechanism. The backrest uses a tracking mechanism with rollers that move along curved guides, allowing easy repositioning without heavy lifting or complex mechanical operations. The locking mechanism uses simple spring-loaded latches instead of complex pin-and-hole systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustment mechanism is designed to be easily operated by the user without requiring assistance or complex procedures. The backrest can be repositioned by simply releasing locks and allowing the backrest to follow the curved guide, with automatic or simple manual locking into place at desired positions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable seating arrangements with hinges are used, then seating versatility is improved, but safety hazards increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseating versatilityVSAvoidsafety hazards

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Traditional hinge mechanisms that pose safety hazards to fingers are completely removed from the design. The adjustment mechanism uses remote locking systems and curved guides that eliminate pinch points and moving parts that could contact user fingers during operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

Curved guide tracks serve as intermediaries between the backrest and the adjustment mechanism. The backrest follows these predetermined curved paths, ensuring safe movement without direct user interaction with moving mechanical parts. The guides mediate the adjustment process, preventing finger injuries.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple seating configurations are provided, then adaptability is improved, but space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseating configuration optionsVSAvoidspace occupation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The backrest dynamically changes its orientation and position to provide multiple seating configurations within the same physical footprint. By adjusting the backrest angle and position along curved guides, the same seat structure can accommodate various seating arrangements without requiring additional space or expanding the overall assembly dimensions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9315238B2Lounge assembly

Publication Date: 2016.04.19 GRADY WHITE BOATS INC

AI summary

A lounge assembly includes a movable backrest to be positioned at multiple locations on its seating surface. The backrest is supported by plate supports extending into the seat below its seating surface to connect to a slidable carriage assembly used to move the backrest. The backrest can be locked into selected positions on the lounge assembly seating surface. The lounge assembly is especially adapted for a boat.