Deployable Footrest Assembly with Pivotable Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
In seating arrangements where seats are arranged in rows, the space beneath one seat is often used as a footwell for the passenger behind, creating a compromise between passenger comfort and storage space, as traditional footrests either obstruct the footwell when deployed or do not provide adequate support.
Innovation Solution
A deployable footrest assembly with a pivotable and slidable second footrest component, supported by a flexible structure, which can be locked in various positions to minimize obstruction when stowed and provide comfort when deployed, utilizing an actuator to balance the weight and control movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional foot rest is provided in the footwell, then passenger comfort is improved, but the footwell storage space is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The foot rest assembly is designed to be movable between a deployed position (providing comfort) and a stowed position (clearing the footwell). The assembly pivots about a pivot axis and can be locked in multiple positions, transforming a static obstruction into a dynamic solution that adapts to different operational states.
Solution Approach 2:
The foot rest assembly is divided into multiple components: a support structure with first and second bars, a flexible structure (sheet or net) spanning between them, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows the assembly to fold compactly when stowed while maintaining structural integrity when deployed.
2Area of stationary object
If a deployable foot rest assembly is provided to minimize obstruction, then footwell storage space is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
When stowed, the foot rest assembly folds into a compact configuration where the flexible structure and support bars nest within the space above the footwell, minimizing obstruction. The assembly essentially folds into itself, with components occupying minimal vertical and horizontal space when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The foot rest assembly serves multiple functions: it provides foot support when deployed, maintains footwell storage access when stowed, and can be positioned at various angles to accommodate different passenger needs. The locking mechanism enables the assembly to function as both a structural support and a space-saving storage solution.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the second foot rest component is made pivotable and slidable, then user control and flexibility are enhanced, but locking mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second foot rest component is designed with both pivotable and slidable capabilities, allowing it to move in multiple degrees of freedom. The pivotable mounting allows rotation about an axis parallel to the pivot axis, while the slidable capability allows movement perpendicular to the pivot axis. This dynamic design provides enhanced user control and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to secure the second foot rest component in predetermined positions before full deployment or stowing occurs. This preliminary locking action stabilizes the component during transitions and allows users to lock the assembly in intermediate positions for customized comfort without requiring complex continuous control mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
A foot rest installation comprising a base structure that includes a footwell and may be provided under a seat, in a bulkhead or in a console, and a foot rest assembly. The foot rest assembly has a deployable foot rest support structure and a first foot rest component comprising a flexible structure, for example a net, having a first end fixed with respect to the base structure at a first location, and a second end coupled to the foot rest support structure at a second location that is spaced apart from the pivot axis along a front-to-rear axis. When deployed, the foot rest support structure extends downward and rearward from the pivot axis to deploy the net in the footwell. When stowed, the foot rest support structure extends upward and rearward from the pivot axis.