Dual-Function Seat Cover with Integrated Occupant Covering Flaps

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is no device that can simultaneously function as a seat cover and a covering for a human occupant, which would be convenient and eliminate the need for a separate covering that requires folding and storage when not in use.

Innovation Solution

A seat cover design that includes a portion to cover a seat and an integral or connected portion to cover a human occupant, featuring extendable flaps that can be secured in a stored position using a retention mechanism, allowing for dual functionality without impeding the movement of movable seats like recliners.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a separate occupant covering is used, then the occupant can be covered while sitting, but the covering must be folded and stored when not in use

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconvenience of occupant coveringVSAvoidtime for folding and storing covering

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the seat cover and occupant covering into a single integrated device. The seat cover includes an occupant covering portion that is connected to the seat covering portion, allowing both functions to be performed by one device rather than requiring separate coverings for the seat and occupant.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The seat cover is designed to perform multiple functions: it covers the seat and simultaneously provides an occupant covering portion that can cover the occupant. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate coverings and reduces the time required to store and retrieve them.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If flaps are extendable from opposite sides of the cover, then the occupant covering portion can be drawn over the occupant, but the flaps require a securing element to retain them in stored position

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of drawing flaps over occupantVSAvoidcomplexity of retention mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The occupant covering portion is divided into two separate flaps that extend from opposite sides of the seat cover. This segmentation allows each flap to be independently drawn over the occupant's body, providing better coverage and fit while maintaining simplicity in the retention mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the seat cover is designed for movable seats like recliners, then the seat can move between positions, but the cover must not impede movement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with movable seatsVSAvoidfunctional performance across positions

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The seat cover is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to adapt to the movement of the seat. The cover material and construction enable it to move with the seat through various positions (upright, reclined, etc.) without impeding the movement or compromising its covering function in any position.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10188220B2Seat cover with occupant covering feature

Publication Date: 2019.01.29 REAVES TISHA M

AI summary

Seat covers, more particularly, seat covers having a seat covering portion adapted to cover at least a portion of a seat, and an occupant covering portion adapted to simultaneously cover at least a portion of a human occupant of said seat. Exemplary seat covers may be fitted or non-fitted in design, and may include a retention mechanism for releasably securing the seat covering portion to a seat. Exemplary seat covers may be configured for use with, among other things, furniture such as reclining chairs, and motorized vehicle seats.