Curved Seat Tracking Platform for Flat Bed Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extendable seats in business jet aircraft are uncomfortable when used as a seat due to their flat-tracking platform, which does not provide the necessary angle for optimal support and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A curved tracking platform that can be used in both seat and bed configurations, featuring a stationary frame with curved rails and a mechanism allowing the horizontal seat cushion to be pitched at an angle of about 6° when in the unextended position, and laying flat when extended, utilizing roller mechanisms and a locking system for smooth and secure movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flat-tracking platform is used, then the seat can be extended to bed mode with even surfaces, but the seat becomes uncomfortable when used in seat configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking platform is designed to be dynamic rather than static, allowing it to change its angle relative to the horizontal seat cushion. The platform can be positioned at approximately 6 degrees to the horizontal when in seat mode, and becomes substantially flat when extended to bed mode. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction by enabling the platform to adapt its geometry to different operational modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameter of the tracking platform's angle. In seat configuration, the platform is angled at about 6 degrees relative to the horizontal seat cushion to provide ergonomic support. When extended to bed mode, the platform becomes substantially flat (0 degrees). This parameter change allows the same platform to satisfy both comfort requirements for different modes.
2Ease of operation
If the horizontal portion of the seat is pitched at an angle for comfort, then seat comfort is improved, but the extended portion cannot lie even with the stationary horizontal portion when converted to bed mode
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking platform's ability to dynamically adjust its angle allows it to be pitched at 6 degrees during seat mode for comfort, and then become substantially flat when extended to bed mode. The dynamic reconfiguration ensures that the extended portion lies even with the stationary horizontal portion, resolving the contradiction between comfort and evenness.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking platform is designed to perform multiple functions: providing an angled support surface for comfortable seating and providing a flat extended surface for bed mode. This multi-functionality is achieved through the curved rails and roller mechanism that enable the platform to assume different angular positions, allowing it to satisfy both contradictory requirements.
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 curved tracking platform enhances comfort by providing a supportive angle when used as a seat and optimal flatness when converted to a bed, ensuring both secure and comfortable use in different configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The curved tracking platform is adapted to move along the curved rails between a retracted position wherein the curved tracking platform is positioned over the substantially horizontal portion of the stationary frame and an extended position where the curved tracking platform extends beyond the substantially horizontal portion of the stationary frame
Data Source
AI summary
A curved tracking platform that can be employed on a dynamic seat or divan such as those used in a business jet aircraft so that the seat can be comfortably used as a seat or in an extended bed position. When in the unextended seat position, the tracking platform allows the horizontal portion of the seat to support an occupant pitched back toward the vertical seat cushion at or about an angle of 6° to the horizontal. However, when the tracking platform is extended so that the seat can be used as a bed, the tracking platform travels along a curved frame rail profile which allows the platform to lay flat or substantially flat, thus allowing the vertical cushion to be placed next to the horizontal seat cushion so that they lie substantially flat to provide optimized comfort.