Compact Chair Rocking Mechanism With Offset Pivot Axis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rocking mechanisms for chairs are not space-efficient and aesthetically unappealing due to their large size, which is often a result of cost constraints, leading to visibility and structural disadvantages.
Innovation Solution
A compact rocking mechanism design featuring a fixed base support with a conical receptacle, a pivotally connected mechanism upper part forming a housing, and a spring element that returns the mechanism to its starting position, allowing integration into the chair's seat or frame, thereby reducing the overall height and visibility of the mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional rocking mechanisms are used, then the chair provides basic rocking functionality, but the mechanism occupies large construction space and is visually prominent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds the rocking mechanism within the chair frame structure itself. The mechanism upper part is formed by integrating the rocking mechanism into the seat, seat support, or chair frame, allowing the mechanism to be nested within existing structural elements rather than adding separate visible components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent repositions the pivot axis to run transversely with respect to the chair longitudinal direction and arranges it next to the conical receptacle. This dimensional reconfiguration reduces the overall height and footprint of the mechanism, allowing it to occupy less construction space while maintaining functionality
2Length of moving object
If the pivot axis is positioned directly over the conical receptacle, then the mechanism structure is simplified, but the overall height of the mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent shifts the pivot axis position from directly over the conical receptacle to a location next to it in the chair longitudinal direction. This spatial reconfiguration reduces the mechanism's height profile while the transverse pivot axis orientation maintains structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an asymmetric arrangement where the pivot axis is offset next to the conical receptacle rather than centered. This local positional adjustment optimizes the height dimension without requiring complex structural changes throughout the entire mechanism
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 results in a space-saving, aesthetically pleasing rocking mechanism that can be integrated into the chair's structure, providing a compact and reliable operation while allowing for individual adjustment of pivoting resistance, suitable for limited construction spaces.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring element interacting with said mechanism upper part and with said base support for returning said mechanism upper part from a pivoted position into a starting position
Data Source
AI summary
A chair has a rocking mechanism with a fixed base support having a conical receptacle to be placed on a chair pillar. The base support is pivotally connected to a mechanism upper part which forms a housing at least partially enclosing the base support. A pivot axis of the mechanism upper part runs transversely to the chair longitudinal direction and is arranged next to the conical receptacle, as seen in the chair longitudinal direction. A spring element acts between the mechanism upper part and the base support for returning the mechanism upper part from a pivoted position into a starting position. The rocking mechanism is fastened via the mechanism upper part to a seat, a seat support, or a frame of the chair, or else, the rocking mechanism is integrated so that part of the seat, seat support or chair frame forms the mechanism upper part.