Folding Armrest Divider With Integrated Charging for Shared Seating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Row seating in public areas like airplanes and movie theaters often features narrow, unsanitary armrests that are difficult to use for multiple people, leading to discomfort and spatial encroachment issues, with a lack of armrest expansion and electronic charging options available for travelers.
Innovation Solution
A portable, folding Armrest Divider with adjustable straps and a built-in electronic charging source that can be easily mounted on existing armrests, providing a wider, cleaner surface and additional charging capabilities without increasing bulk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If portable armrest dividers are installed on existing armrests, then armrest width and personal space are increased, but device complexity and installation burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest divider employs a folding mechanism that transitions between compact and expanded states. The divider panels can be folded flat for storage and deployment for use, allowing the structure to dynamically adapt between two functional states. This resolves the contradiction by providing full armrest width when needed while maintaining minimal bulk during transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The armrest divider is divided into multiple separable panels connected by hinges or flexible joints. These segmented panels can be independently positioned and adjusted to create the desired armrest configuration. The segmentation allows the device to be compact during storage yet provide substantial armrest width when deployed, while also simplifying installation through modular assembly.
2Volume of moving object
If portable armrest dividers are made compact for transport, then carrying capacity is improved, but armrest surface area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest divider panels are designed to nest within each other when not in use, with smaller panels fitting inside larger ones. This nesting configuration minimizes the overall volume of the divider during transport while maintaining the capability to expand to full armrest surface area when deployed. The nested structure efficiently packs the large surface area required for armrest function into a compact form factor.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electronic charging sources are integrated into armrest dividers, then charging availability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest divider integrates multiple functions including structural support, surface protection, and electronic charging capability. By combining these functions into a single device, the overall weight increase is minimized compared to carrying separate items for each function. The charging sources are integrated into the existing divider structure, allowing travelers to charge electronic devices without adding significant weight or complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable armrest divider is disclosed that is mounted on a vehicle armrest and expands the surface area of the original armrest, while providing a vertical separation barrier between the two individuals seated on either side of the armrest. The armrest is portable, in that it folds in half for easy travel.