Office Chair Backrest Elastomer Spring Force Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing office swivel chairs have adjustable spring forces for the backrest that are difficult to adjust while seated and provide only fine adjustments, making it inconvenient for users to test the adjusted spring force effectively.
Innovation Solution
A chair design utilizing a block of elastomer material with an adjustable compressible volume, where a slide moves parallel to the elastomer block's edge to change the contact surface area, allowing easy adjustment of spring force while seated, and a holding mechanism prevents slide shifting during load, using a combination of elastomer blocks and a mechanical spring for upright positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a slide moves parallel to the elastomer block's edge to change contact surface area, then easy adjustment is achieved, but the slide may shift during load phase due to transverse forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces holding means as an intermediary element between the slide and the frame. These holding means act as a mediator that allows the slide to move smoothly during adjustment while preventing unwanted shifting during the loaded position. The holding means engages with the slide at specific positions to provide stabilization without interfering with the adjustment motion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic system where the holding means can engage and disengage from the slide. During adjustment, the holding means is disengaged to allow smooth movement; during the loaded position, the holding means engages to prevent shifting. This dynamic engagement ensures both smooth adjustment and stable fixation under different operational conditions
2Weight of moving object
If a block of elastomer material is used for biasing, then a compact and lightweight construction is achieved, but the adjustment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the adjustment mechanism from a complex rotating device to a simple linear slide that modifies the compressible volume of the elastomer block. By varying the volume parameter of the elastomer block through the slide's linear movement, the system achieves adjustable spring force with minimal mechanical complexity, maintaining lightweight construction while enabling easy adjustment
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
Enables easy and significant adjustment of the spring force for the backrest's upright position, ensuring a compact and lightweight construction with smooth adjustment and secure fixation, enhancing user convenience and ergonomic support.
Implementation Method 1
a block (9) of an elastomer material, in particular of a foamed material... which can be compressed by pivoting the back rest (3)
Data Source
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AI summary
A chair (1), in particular an office swivel chair, comprises a seat support (4) arranged on a frame (2) and a pivotably mounted back rest (3) pressed into an upright initial position by at least one spring, wherein the force of the spring is adjustable, wherein at least one block (9) of elastomer material is provided as the spring, which can be compressed by pivoting the back rest (3).