Seat, particularly for video games, and hinge for use therein

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The existing video game seat with a scissor construction is limited by the dimensions of straps and their mounting points, making it difficult to adjust the folded-out position accurately and requiring complex strap adjustments.

Innovation Solution

A collapsible seat frame with a hinge comprising two load-bearing bodies and locking means that allows frame parts to be subdivided and adjusted independently, eliminating the need for straps as armrests and enabling precise positioning without the constraints of strap length.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If straps are used to determine the folded-out position and form armrests, then the seat structure is simplified, but the position adjustment becomes difficult and imprecise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseat structureVSAvoidposition adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is divided into multiple separable components: a first frame part carrying the backrest, a second frame part carrying the console, and a support for the pedal set. These segments are connected via hinges allowing independent positioning and adjustment without being constrained by strap dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The seat employs hinge connections that enable dynamic adjustment of frame parts to various positions. The hinges allow the frame parts to be rotated and fixed at different angles, providing flexible position adjustment rather than being limited to a fixed folded-out position determined by strap length.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Device complexity

If the frame parts are made as single long pieces, then the structure is simpler, but the packaging volume increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframe constructionVSAvoidpackaging volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Each frame part is constructed from multiple tubular elements connected together. The first frame part comprises tubular elements that can be assembled in sections, and the second frame part similarly uses separate tubular elements. This segmentation allows the frame components to be disassembled into smaller pieces for compact packaging while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tubular elements of the frame are designed to nest within each other when disassembled, similar to nested dolls. This allows the frame components to be stored in a compact configuration that minimizes packaging volume, while still forming the complete frame structure when assembled for use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of operation

If straps of fixed length are used, then the armrests are positioned, but the folded-out position is limited and cannot be varied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearmrest positioningVSAvoidposition variation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge connections enable the frame parts to be adjusted to different positions dynamically. The first and second frame parts can be rotated relative to each other and fixed at various angles, allowing the folded-out position to be varied according to user preference rather than being constrained by fixed strap length.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge mechanism is pre-configured with mounting points that allow the frame parts to be positioned and locked at predetermined angles. This enables users to select from multiple pre-engineered position options, combining the simplicity of fixed positioning with the flexibility of multiple available positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11547214B2Seat, particularly for video games, and hinge for use therein
Publication Date: 2023.01.10 F SMIT HLDG BV
  • US11547214B2 patent drawing
  • US11547214B2 patent drawing
  • US11547214B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A seat, particularly for video games, includes a collapsible frame which carries a seat surface and a backrest. The frame includes a first part carrying the backrest and a second part configured to carry a console for a steering wheel or joystick for controlling a video game. These parts are connected pivotally to each other by a hinge. The hinge includes a first load-bearing body on which the first frame part is mounted, and a second load-bearing body on which the second frame part is mounted. The hinge has locking means for fixating the first and second frame parts in a desired position relative to each other. A hinge for application in such a seat.