Collapsible Spring Seat Levelling Device for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat levelling devices are not easily storable or reusable and do not have a compact configuration, making them unsuitable for smaller car compartments.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible seat levelling device with a continuous spring configuration, featuring a hook and loop strap for compact storage, and a rubber grip cover for additional utility, allowing it to provide a horizontal surface while fitting snugly with the contours of the vehicle seat.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a levelling device is designed to provide a horizontal surface on an inclined vehicle seat, then the device can support items effectively, but the device becomes too large to store in compact car compartments
Solution Approach 1:
The levelling device is divided into multiple collapsible sections that can be stacked together. Each section contains a spring mechanism that can be individually compressed, allowing the entire device to be reduced to a compact size for storage in glove compartments or other small car spaces, while still providing full levelling capability when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates a collapsible spring mechanism that transitions between extended and compressed states. The spring sections can be dynamically adjusted - extended when needed for levelling, and compressed for compact storage. This dynamic transformation allows the device to adapt between its functional and storage states
2Volume of moving object
If a levelling device uses a single sheet of foldable material, then it can be compact, but it lacks reusability and durability
Solution Approach 1:
The device combines spring steel elements with a fabric or plastic outer covering to create a composite structure. The spring steel provides durability, elasticity, and reusability, while the outer material provides structural integrity and protection. This composite construction allows the device to be collapsed for compact storage while maintaining strength and longevity for repeated use
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is enclosed within a flexible outer shell or covering that can be compressed and folded. This flexible enclosure protects the internal spring components while allowing the entire device to be collapsed into a compact form factor, combining protection with portability
3Stability of the object's composition
If a levelling device has a fixed configuration, then it provides stable support, but it cannot be stored in small compartments
Solution Approach 1:
The device features a dynamic configuration that transitions between a stable extended state for support and a compressed state for storage. When deployed, the spring sections extend to provide a rigid, stable surface. When stored, the same sections compress into a compact bundle, allowing the device to adapt its physical state based on operational needs
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 device effectively provides a horizontal surface for supporting items on an inclined vehicle seat, is easily storable in compact car compartments, and can be used as a writing support due to its collapsible and adaptable design.
Implementation Method 1
The device includes a continuous spring having a collapsible bellows configuration
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a seat levelling support device for providing a substantially flat surface to support at least one item thereon. The device is for use in vehicle seats. The device includes a spring which has a substantially flat top edge and a contoured bottom edge configured to conform with the contours of the vehicle seat. The spring has a collapsible configuration, wherein in the extended configuration of the device, the top edges of the spring define a substantially flat surface for supporting things thereon.