Convertible Marine Seat with Nested Table and Four-Bar Pivot Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a compact pivot mechanism in marine vessels without a galley to convert seating into a tabletop workspace efficiently, as existing solutions require large storage spaces.
Innovation Solution
A convertible seat with a four-bar mechanism comprising upper and lower pivot arms and a table coupled to a seat back, allowing the seat cushion and table to pivot into and out of a stored and deployed position without needing extensive space, utilizing a piano hinge and pivot joints for seamless conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional pivot mechanism is used to convert seating into a tabletop workspace, then the conversion function is achieved, but large storage spaces are required
Solution Approach 1:
The table is nested within the seat cushion structure, allowing the table to be stored inside the cushion when not in use. This nesting arrangement eliminates the need for separate storage spaces while maintaining the convertible function of the seating.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot mechanism utilizes vertical movement and rotational transformation to convert the table from a horizontal storage position within the cushion to a vertical deployed position for workspace function, effectively using three-dimensional space transformation rather than requiring additional horizontal storage area.
2Area of stationary object
If a compact pivot mechanism is used, then storage space is reduced, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot mechanism merges multiple functions into a single integrated assembly: the table mounting, cushion connection, and folding motion are all achieved through one compact pivot mechanism rather than separate components, reducing overall complexity while maintaining compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a mounting bracket, a folding hinge, and a support structure. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing mechanism complexity despite the compact design requirements.
3Area of stationary object
If the table is stored between the seat back and back supporting cushion, then storage space efficiency is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seat structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: the seat back, the back supporting cushion, and the table, with the pivot mechanism creating a defined interface between them. This segmentation allows the table to be precisely positioned in the storage gap without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot mechanism is designed to automatically guide the table into the correct storage position between the seat back and cushion when folded, and to self-lock in the deployed position. This self-positioning capability reduces the need for additional control mechanisms while achieving efficient space utilization.
Data Source
AI summary
A convertible seat for a marine vessel includes a seat base having a seat bottom and a seat back which extends transversely upwardly relative to the seat bottom, a back supporting cushion for an occupant seated on the seat bottom, a table coupled to the back supporting cushion, and a pivot mechanism which couples the table to the seat back, the pivot mechanism being configured such that the back supporting cushion and the table are movable into a storage position in which the table is sandwiched between the seat back and the back supporting cushion and a deployed position in which the table provides a supporting surface over the seat bottom.