Fixed-Pivot Futon Frame With Elastic Assist for Easier Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional futon frames are difficult to transition between a sitting and a lying position due to the lack of a mechanism to assist in lifting the back deck, requiring excessive force, especially when a mattress is present.
Innovation Solution
A futon frame with a fixed pivot point offset by a hanger mechanism and an assistance device that stores and releases elastic energy to facilitate easier transitions between folded and unfolded states, utilizing a hinge mechanism and pulleys to reduce the required force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional futon frame is used without an assistance device, then the structure is simple, but excessive force is required to transition between sitting and lying positions
Solution Approach 1:
The assistance device performs preliminary action by storing elastic energy in the counterbalance spring during the transition from lying to sitting position, and then releasing this stored energy to assist the transition back from sitting to lying position, reducing the effort required by the user
Solution Approach 2:
The counterbalance spring acts as an intermediary element between the user and the back deck, mediating the force required for transition by storing and releasing elastic energy, thereby reducing the direct force the user must apply
2Force
If the pivot point is fixed and offset using a hanger mechanism, then the mechanical advantage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The counterbalance spring functions as a counterweight mechanism, offsetting the weight of the back deck and mattress by storing elastic energy when the system is in the lying position and releasing it to assist lifting the back deck during transition to the sitting position
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot mechanism is segmented into a fixed pivot point on the armrest and a movable hanger connection to the back deck, allowing the back deck to pivot at a fixed point while the hanger accommodates movement and maintains the offset pivot configuration
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 solution allows for easier conversion between the folded and unfolded states by leveraging mechanical advantage and stored elastic energy, reducing the effort needed to transition the futon frame, making it more user-friendly and efficient.
Implementation Method 1
an assistance device configured to store elastic energy during the first transition, and release the stored elastic energy during the second transition, wherein the stored elastic energy provides a force for initiating the first transition
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of pulleys installed on a bottom surface of the seat deck, and the assistance device includes an elastic cord attached to a first position on a back deck rail of the back deck and wound through the plurality of pulleys
Data Source
AI summary
A frame subassembly of a foldable bed frame includes a seat deck, a back deck, and armrests. The frame subassembly includes a portion of the seat deck connected to a portion of the back deck; and a fixed pivot point connecting the back deck to the armrests such that the fixed pivot point between the back deck and the armrests does not slide when the foldable bed frame transitions between a folded state and an unfolded state. The foldable bed frame may include a hanger connecting the armrest to the back deck such that the fixed pivot point therebetween is offset. The foldable bed frame may further include an assistance device configured to store elastic energy during a first transition, and release the stored elastic energy during a second transition.