Collapsible Backrest with Triangular Support for Aircraft Cabin Seats
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft cabin seats often lack reclining capabilities due to space constraints and weight considerations, leading to discomfort for flight attendants during long flights, and must not hinder emergency ingress and egress.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible backrest comprising a triangular support structure formed by interlocking panels made of lightweight materials like carbon fiber and polycarbonate, with a cover defining compartments and notches for secure attachment, allowing adjustable seating angles and easy stowage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a fixed vertical backrest is used, then the seat structure is simple and space-saving, but seating comfort deteriorates during long durations
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest is designed as a collapsible structure that can transition between vertical and reclined positions, allowing the seating angle to be adjusted dynamically based on operational needs while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The backrest is divided into multiple panels (back panel, base panel, central panel, end panel) that can be folded relative to each other, enabling the reclining function without requiring a completely complex mechanical structure
2Ease of operation
If a reclining seat is installed, then seating comfort improves, but weight and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest utilizes flexible coupling between thin panel structures rather than heavy mechanical hinges, reducing overall weight while maintaining the reclining capability through the flexible panel connections
Solution Approach 2:
The back panel is constructed from carbon fiber composite material, providing high strength-to-weight ratio, while the base panel uses polycarbonate or thermoplastic materials that are lightweight yet durable, collectively reducing the overall seat weight
3Ease of operation
If a collapsible backrest is deployed, then seating comfort improves with adjustable angles, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is integrated to encompass all four panels and their coupling mechanisms, providing a unified structure that simplifies the overall assembly while enabling the collapsible functionality through the defined compartments and notches
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible backrest may include a cover and a back panel retained within a first compartment of the cover. A base panel flexibly coupled to the back panel and retained within a second compartment of the cover with the central panel and the base panel defining a notch. A central panel may be flexibly coupled to the base panel and retained within a third compartment of the cover. An end panel may also be flexibly coupled to the central panel and retained within a fourth compartment of the cover. The central panel and the end panel define a cavity. The base panel, the central panel, and the end panel form a triangular support structure in a deployed position. The base panel, the central panel, and the end panel may also be arranged end-to-end and substantially parallel to the back panel in a stowed position.