Chair arm assembly

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing chair assemblies lack a comprehensive solution for vertically and horizontally adjustable arm assemblies, control mechanisms for synchronized movement of support surfaces, and an energy mechanism to bias movement effectively.

Innovation Solution

A chair assembly with a vertically and horizontally adjustable arm assembly, a control assembly for coordinated movement of seat and back support surfaces, and an energy mechanism using a spring system to bias movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the arm assembly is made adjustable in multiple directions, then user comfort and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearm assembly adjustabilityVSAvoidarm assembly structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The arm assembly is designed with dynamic adjustability, allowing the armrest to be positioned at multiple heights and angles. The support assembly includes movable components that enable the armrest to transition between different positions, providing adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple structural framework through controlled dynamic elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The arm assembly is divided into distinct segments: the arm base, support assembly, and armrest. Each segment can be independently adjusted or positioned, allowing complex adaptability to be achieved through simpler modular components rather than a monolithic complex structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the control assembly coordinates movement of multiple surfaces, then synchronized movement and user comfort are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynchronized movement coordinationVSAvoidcontrol assembly structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control assembly merges multiple control functions into a single integrated unit. The control links and levers are combined to coordinate the movement of the seat pan, backrest, and arm assembly simultaneously, achieving synchronized movement through a unified control mechanism rather than separate controls for each component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The control assembly is designed as a multi-functional mechanism that can control various movements (seat pan tilt, backrest recline, armrest position) through a single integrated system. The control links and levers serve multiple functions, reducing the need for separate control mechanisms for each movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Use of energy by moving object

If the spring system provides biasing force for movement, then energy efficiency and movement assistance are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemovement biasing forceVSAvoidspring mechanism structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring system is designed to automatically provide biasing force for the movement of the seat pan and backrest without requiring external power sources or complex control systems. The springs self-generate the necessary force to assist movement and maintain position, making the energy system simple and self-sufficient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 solution provides enhanced user comfort through adjustable armrests, synchronized movement of seat and back support surfaces, and effective biasing of movement using a spring system.

Implementation Method 1

an energy mechanism using a spring system to bias movement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS20250049218A1Chair arm assembly
Publication Date: 2025.02.13 STEELCASE INC
  • US20250049218A1 patent drawing
  • US20250049218A1 patent drawing
  • US20250049218A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A chair assembly includes a base assembly, a seat assembly having a pair of side edges and a fore-to-aft extending longitudinal centerline, a back assembly movable between upright and reclined positions, and an arm assembly including an arm base extending from a first location between the side edges to a second location laterally outward of one of the side edges, wherein the arm base extends at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal centerline and at an upward angle from the first location toward the second location, a support assembly supported by and extending upwardly from the arm base, and an armrest supported by the support assembly that is adjustable to support the armrest between a plurality of selected vertical positions, wherein the arm assembly and back assembly move at a different rate from one another as the back assembly is moved between the upright and reclined positions.