Dual-Axis Seatback Table for Stable Access From Either Side
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing table units for motor-vehicle seats are not easily accessible and stable for users seated on either side, as they typically pivot around a single axis, leading to instability and difficulty in use when rotated.
Innovation Solution
A table unit with a pivoting table that rotates around two mutually parallel and spaced articulation axes, equipped with latching devices and a connecting mechanism to ensure safe and stable operation, allowing rotation to either side and maintaining horizontal position with weight applied.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single articulation axis is used for the pivoting table, then the structure is simple, but the table is not easily accessible and stable for users seated on either side
Solution Approach 1:
The single articulation axis is segmented into two parallel and spaced-apart articulation axes (first and second axes), allowing the table to pivot independently toward either the left or right seat. This segmentation enables the table to serve users on both sides effectively while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulation mechanism transitions from one-dimensional (single axis) to two-dimensional (two parallel axes), enabling the table to rotate toward multiple directions (left or right) rather than being constrained to a single pivot point. This dimensional change provides versatility for users seated on either side.
2Ease of operation
If the table can rotate to serve users on either side, then accessibility is improved, but stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The latching devices provide localized stability at each articulation axis, allowing the table to be securely locked in position whether rotated to the left or right. Each latching device engages with its corresponding articulation pin to prevent unintended movement, ensuring stability is maintained at the specific location where the table is deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The table system transitions from a static single-axis configuration to a dynamic dual-axis system with selectable latching. The table can be actively rotated to the desired position and then locked into place, providing adaptability and stability throughout the operation cycle.
3Reliability
If latching devices are provided for both articulation pins, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The two latching devices are operatively connected through a connecting device, creating an integrated system where the latching operations are coordinated. This merging ensures that both articulation pins are secured together, providing comprehensive safety while sharing the control mechanism between the two latching points.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting device acts as an intermediary between the two latching devices, transmitting the latching action from one side to the other. This intermediary component coordinates the engagement of both latching devices, ensuring they work together as a unified safety system rather than independent mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A table unit for a motor-vehicle seat comprises a base plate connected in an articulated manner to a backrest frame of the seat, in such a way as to be movable between an inoperative position, adjacent to a front surface of the seat backrest and an operative position, projecting horizontally in a cantilevered manner from the front surface of the backrest. A table is pivotally mounted on the base plate and is configured to rotate with respect to the base plate selectively about any one of two articulation axes parallel to, and spaced apart form, each other.