Fluid Cell Cushion for Aircraft Seat Comfort
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commercial aircraft seats provide limited adjustability and comfort due to their constrained design, leading to reduced passenger comfort during long flights.
Innovation Solution
A shape-adapting system for cushion assemblies, comprising a support base with fluid-retaining cells connected by a fluid exchange sub-system and valves, allowing fluid migration to change the shape of the support base, which can be controlled to enhance comfort and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional fixed design is used for aircraft seats, then the device complexity is reduced, but passenger comfort and adjustability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The seat cushion is divided into multiple independent cells that can be individually inflated or deflated. Each cell acts as an independent unit, allowing localized adjustment of support and pressure distribution without affecting the entire seat structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic adjustable structure using inflatable cells that can change volume and shape in response to control signals, enabling real-time adaptation to passenger needs.
2Weight of moving object
If lightweight materials and structures are used, then fuel consumption is reduced, but structural strength and support capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Inflatable cells use pneumatic pressure to generate structural support and load-bearing capability. The pressurized air or gas within the cells provides the necessary strength and rigidity to support passenger weight while maintaining a lightweight structure when deflated or partially inflated.
Solution Approach 2:
The cells are constructed from flexible materials that can deform and adapt to applied loads. These thin-walled structures provide sufficient strength through their geometric configuration and internal pressure rather than through heavy material construction.
3Ease of operation
If fixed shape cushion assemblies are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but passenger comfort during long flights deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid exchange subsystem automatically redistributes fluid between cells in response to pressure changes and passenger movement, providing self-adjusting comfort features without requiring complex active control systems for each individual cell.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid exchange subsystem serves multiple functions: it enables shape adjustment, provides pressure redistribution, and allows connectivity between cells for balanced fluid distribution, replacing the need for multiple independent control systems.
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 system increases passenger comfort by allowing adjustable support and pressure points, reducing weight and fuel consumption, making it suitable for aircraft use.
Implementation Method 1
the valve(s) is configured to move between an open position in which the fluid is able to migrate among the cells to change a shape of the support base
Implementation Method 2
At least one of the cells may be formed of an elastomeric material
Implementation Method 3
A pump may be in fluid communication with the fluid exchange sub-system. The pump is configured to be operated to selectively inflate and deflate the cells
Data Source
AI summary
A shape adapting system of a cushion assembly and method of forming a shape adapting system of a cushion assembly include an array of cells that retain a fluid, a fluid exchange sub-system coupled to the cells, wherein the fluid exchange sub-system fluidly connects the cells together, and at least one valve coupled to the fluid exchange sub-system. The valve(s) is configured to move between an open position in which the fluid is able to migrate among the cells to change a shape of the support base, and a closed position in which the shape of the support base is maintained.