Folding Chair Frame with Gravity-Assisted Hinge and Slider Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional folding chair designs have complex support structures that are difficult to fold and unfold, leading to instability and low user comfort.
Innovation Solution
A folding chair frame with left and right foot tube assemblies, featuring hinged connections and sliders, allows for easy folding and unfolding by gravity, while adjustable connectors and armrests enhance comfort and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a complex support structure is used in conventional folding chairs, then the chair provides basic support functionality, but the folding and unfolding process becomes complicated and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple hinged segments (seat tube, backrest tube, foot tubes, connecting tubes) that can independently fold and unfold. Each segment is connected through hinges or sliders, allowing the complex structure to be broken down into simple rotational movements that are easy to operate.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic hinge connections and sliders that allow the support structure to transition smoothly between folded and unfolded states. The hinged connections enable rotational movement, while sliders provide linear motion, creating a dynamic system that adapts to different configurations without requiring complex manual manipulation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex support structure with multiple connectors is used, then the chair frame can be folded, but the stability and comfort for the user deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hinged connections and sliders are pre-configured in specific positions and orientations before use. The connectors are designed with predetermined hinge points and sliding paths that ensure proper alignment when the chair is assembled, eliminating the need for complex adjustments and ensuring immediate stability upon assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinged support structure automatically maintains stability through its own geometric configuration and hinge constraints. When the chair is unfolded, the arrangement of tubes and connectors creates inherent structural rigidity without requiring additional locking mechanisms or complex fastening systems, allowing the structure to support itself.
3Productivity
If conventional folding chair designs are used, then the basic folding function is achieved, but the comfort level for the user remains low
Solution Approach 1:
The hinged connections enable the chair to transition dynamically between different configurations, including folded and unfolded states. The sliders provide smooth linear motion that enhances the folding action, creating a user-friendly operation that maintains comfort while achieving efficient folding.
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 design simplifies the folding process, reduces manual effort, and improves user comfort by allowing for adjustable pitch and reclining positions, thereby addressing the complexity and comfort issues of conventional folding chairs.
Implementation Method 1
a front foot tube and a rear foot tube hingedly connected together at their respective tops
Implementation Method 2
allows for easy folding and unfolding by gravity
Implementation Method 3
The first connector is embodied as a first slider which is slidable along the respective rear foot tube
Data Source
AI summary
A folding chair frame, a folding recliner and a folding chair frame are provided. A foot tube assembly includes a front foot tube and a rear foot tube hingedly connected at a top, the rear foot tube is provided with a first connector, the front foot tube is provided with a seat tube, which has one end hinged to the front foot tube and another end hinged to the first slider, and the first slider is hinged to a backrest tube; two sets of the foot tube assemblies are oppositely provided, each rear foot tube is respectively provided with a second connector connected to a connecting tube having one end hinged thereto and another end hinged to one front foot tube, the front end of each seat tube is respectively provided with a front cross tube having one end hinged thereto and another end hinged to a bottom end of the foot tube of the other set of the foot tube assembly opposite to the foot tube assembly in which the seat tube is located. In this assembly, the front foot tubes and the rear foot tubes are unfolded by gravity and secured by the first sliders and the second sliders on the rear foot tubes, to solve the more complicated problem of manual operation on the supporting structure to achieve the folding in the conventional technology.