Coupling Stool Base and Latch Frame for Convertible Rocker Seating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-functional seating designs often compromise on user-friendliness and versatility, either being overly complex or limited in functionality, failing to meet the diverse needs of active users in various environments, particularly in smaller spaces where flexibility and simplicity are desired.
Innovation Solution
A chair with a coupling companion stool base that features a frame with a claw and latch mechanism, allowing for easy conversion between task seating and casual rocker seating, with a base that can function as a stool or side table, and incorporating a tilt and swivel mechanism for adaptability, ensuring secure engagement through asymmetric geometry and biasing for user feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multi-functional seating designs include many components to address various functional needs, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The base is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a support base for the chair, a companion stool for additional seating, and a side table for placing items. This single component fulfills multiple roles, reducing the need for separate furniture pieces and maintaining versatility without adding complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the chair and companion stool into a single integrated unit where the base serves dual purposes. The companion stool base is merged with the chair structure, allowing it to function both as structural support and as independent seating or table surface
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-functional seating designs include many components to address various functional needs, then versatility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to user involvement requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism uses spring-loaded latches that automatically engage with the frame when the base is positioned correctly. The biasing mechanism provides automatic feedback to guide proper assembly without requiring user force or complex manipulation, making the system self-configuring
3Adaptability or versatility
If multi-functional seating designs include many components to address various functional needs, then versatility is improved, but mechanical aptitude requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded latches provide mechanical feedback through audible clicks and tactile engagement sensations when properly coupled. The biasing mechanism guides the user through the assembly process by providing force feedback that indicates when components are correctly positioned and engaged
4Reliability
If dedicated use furnishings are used in smaller rooms, then functional specialization is improved, but space efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The base serves multiple functions (chair base, companion stool, side table) in a single space-occupying component, eliminating the need for separate dedicated furniture pieces and maximizing space efficiency while maintaining functional versatility
Data Source
AI summary
A chair with a coupling companion stool base includes a frame that has: a claw extending downward from a second portion of a lower portion of the frame; a latch extending downward from and movably connected with a first portion of the lower portion; two legs adapted to support the frame upon a supporting surface extending downward from the lower portion; and a receptacle defined between the claw and the latch. The base supports the frame above a supporting surface and has a saddle with opposite back and front edges and a top surface that faces away from the supporting surface. The top surface may also define at least one of a work surface, a writing surface, and a sitting surface. The base releasably couples with the frame, having the saddle seated in the receptacle, the front edge seated in the claw, and the back edge captured by the latch. When decoupled, the chair portion may be used as casual floor rocker seating.