Folding Seat Linkage for One-Motion Backrest Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fold-out seat designs for vessels often have inconveniently low bolster heights for comfort and require complex manipulation to switch between stowed and use positions, complicating operation and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A fold-out seat mechanism with a parallel link connection and sliding backrest, allowing the seat to pivot from a stowed to a lowered position while raising the backrest to a comfortable position in one motion, and returning it to a lowered position when stowed, using magnetic catches for secure storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the bolster is pivotally mounted to hold the seat in a stowed position, then the seat can be secured in position, but the operation becomes complex requiring manual manipulation of the bolster to pivot and reposition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the bolster and seat into a single integrated assembly that moves as one unit. The bolster is fixed to the seat structure rather than being separately pivotally mounted, so when the seat pivots down to the use position, the bolster automatically assumes its correct orientation without requiring separate manipulation. This integration eliminates the complex two-step operation of manually pivoting the bolster separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated bolster-seat assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the seat, forms the backrest when in use position, and maintains stability in both stowed and use positions. This multi-functionality is achieved through the unified structural design where the bolster becomes part of the seat mechanism rather than a separate component.
2Shape
If the bolster height is kept low to match adjoining bolster sections, then the seat can be stowed flush with the transom, but the backrest becomes uncomfortable when in use position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic design where the bolster automatically changes its position and orientation based on the seat's state. When the seat is in the stowed position, the bolster remains low and aligned with the transom for a flush profile. When the seat pivots to the use position, the bolster automatically rises and orients itself to form a comfortable backrest. This dynamic behavior is achieved through the integrated mechanical linkage that couples the bolster's motion to the seat's pivoting action.
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
Enables easy, one-motion operation between stowed and use positions, providing a comfortable backrest and compact storage by eliminating the need for separate bolster manipulation, enhancing user convenience and vessel cockpit seating.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic catches are employed to secure the seat to the frame mechanism for the seat assembly in a stowed position
Data Source
AI summary
A movable seat and backrest are coupled by a pivoted link system, allowing the seat to pivot from a raised stowed position to a lowered use position. A connecting link is coupled to one of the pivoted seat links, such that, as the seat is lowered, the connecting link raises the backrest. When the seat is raised to a stowed position, the connecting link lowers the backrest to a lowered position. When mounted in a vessel, the backrest forms part of the bolster system when the seat is stowed.