Dental Chair Locking Assembly for Stable Seatback Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dental chairs face challenges in coupling the carriage to the chair frame, resulting in instability and 'slop' during movement between orientations, which is exacerbated by the need for tight tolerances to maintain a stable connection.
Innovation Solution
A locking assembly is implemented, comprising an engagement member, a clamp plate, and a fastener with threads, which applies a clamping force between the seatback support and the chair frame, eliminating the need for tight tolerances and ensuring a stable connection by reducing 'slop' during movement between positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If components are designed with tight tolerances to reduce slop between carriage and chair frame, then stability during movement is improved, but manufacturing complexity and risk of poor fits increase
Solution Approach 1:
A locking assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the carriage and chair frame. This assembly includes a locking member that engages with a receptacle, providing a positive mechanical connection that eliminates slop without requiring tight manufacturing tolerances on the carriage and frame components themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking assembly changes the connection parameter from a friction-based fit (requiring tight tolerances) to a positive mechanical engagement (locking member in receptacle). This parameter change allows for more relaxed tolerances while maintaining stability during movement between orientations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If clearance between carriage and chair frame sidewalls is reduced to eliminate play, then movement stability is improved, but assembly difficulty and potential for poor fits increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking assembly serves as a mediator that provides stable connection without requiring tight clearance fits. The locking member engages positively with the receptacle, allowing larger clearances between the carriage and sidewalls while maintaining stability during movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is segmented into separate functional elements: the carriage, the locking assembly, and the chair frame. This segmentation allows the locking assembly to handle the stability function independently, freeing the carriage-frame interface from tight tolerance 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 locking assembly provides a stable connection between the seatback support and the chair frame, eliminating 'slop' and ensuring smooth movement between upright and reclined positions without requiring tight component tolerances, thus enhancing the chair's stability and usability.
Implementation Method 1
a locking assembly is configured to apply a clamping force between the seatback support and the chair frame
Implementation Method 2
a locking assembly is configured to apply a clamping force between the seatback support and the chair frame
Data Source
AI summary
A patient chair for use in a dental operatory or the like generally comprises a base, a chair frame supported by the base, and a seatback support coupled to the chair frame. The seatback support is slidably movable relative to the chair frame. To provide a desired connection or fit between components, a locking assembly is configured to apply a clamping force between the seatback support and the chair frame.