Ergonomic Chair Armrest Linkage for Multi-Plane Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for ergonomic chair armrests that can be adjustable in both vertical and horizontal planes to accommodate various users and provide optimal ergonomics, as existing armrests often lack the flexibility to achieve the most beneficial position for user comfort and health.
Innovation Solution
The ergonomic chair armrest features a parallel linkage mechanism with ratcheted bars and a link locking mechanism, allowing for adjustable height and lateral movement, facilitated by a tension wire and actuation button, and an arm pad assembly with sliding links and a lock mechanism for customizable positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If armrests are made stationary and affixed to the chair, then the structure is simple and stable, but the adaptability to different users is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest is designed with dynamic adjustment capabilities, allowing it to change position vertically and horizontally. The linkage mechanism with movable connections enables the armrest to adapt to different user preferences while maintaining structural integrity through controlled motion rather than fixed rigidity.
Solution Approach 2:
The armrest structure is divided into multiple independent components including linkage bars, locking mechanisms, and adjustable segments. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for specific functions while collectively providing comprehensive adaptability without excessive overall complexity.
2Ease of operation
If armrests are made adjustable in multiple directions, then the ergonomics and user comfort are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it enables vertical adjustment, horizontal positioning, and provides structural support. The same mechanical components facilitate both movement and stabilization, reducing the need for separate dedicated mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The armrest incorporates self-locking mechanisms that automatically maintain position once adjusted. The ratcheted locking system and tension wire assembly enable the structure to self-regulate and hold its configuration without requiring continuous external control or complex actuation systems.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to maintain armrest position, then the stability at selected positions is improved, but the ease of adjustment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tension wire acts as an intermediary element that transmits force from the locking mechanism to the linkage bars. This intermediary allows the locking action to be initiated by a simple button press while the wire gradually engages the locking bars, providing stable locking without requiring complex direct mechanical coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism operates in distinct phases: the release button initiates a periodic locking sequence where the tension wire progressively engages the ratcheted locking bars at predetermined positions. This periodic engagement provides stable positioning at discrete intervals while maintaining ease of initiation.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a chair armrest that is variably adjustable to allow a user to assume an ergonomically preferred sitting position. The ergonomic chair armrest comprises, either separately or together, an arm support assembly capable of adjustment to various positions through a vertical plane and an arm pad assembly capable of adjustment to various positions through a horizontal plane. The invention further provides an ergonomic chair having an armrest that is adjustable in both a vertical plane and a horizontal plane.