Futon Frame Fixed Pivot Point Design to Reduce Transition Force
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional futon frames are difficult to transition between a sitting and lying position due to the lack of a mechanism to assist in lifting the back deck, requiring excessive force, especially when a mattress is present.
Innovation Solution
A futon frame with a fixed pivot point offset by a hanger and an assistance device that stores elastic energy to facilitate easier transitions between folded and unfolded states, utilizing a hinge mechanism and pulleys to reduce the required force for conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional futon frame uses a sliding pivot point connection between the back deck and armrests, then the frame can transition between folded and unfolded states, but the transition requires excessive force and is difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an assistance device (spring mechanism) that stores elastic potential energy to counterbalance the gravitational force acting on the back deck. The spring is configured to extend when the frame transitions from folded to unfolded state, storing energy, and then contracts to provide upward force during the return transition, reducing the manual force required by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The assistance device performs preliminary action by pre-storing elastic energy in the spring during the unfolding transition. This stored energy is then released during the folding transition to assist with lifting the back deck, effectively performing part of the work before the user needs to apply force.
2Ease of operation
If a futon frame includes an assistance device with elastic energy storage, then the transition between positions becomes easier, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The assistance device is designed to be self-regulating, using the natural motion of the frame transition to automatically charge and discharge the spring. The mechanism leverages the existing movement between folded and unfolded states to store and release energy without requiring external control systems, sensors, or additional power sources, thereby minimizing added complexity.
3Force
If a fixed pivot point is offset using a hanger connection, then the mechanical advantage is improved for easier lifting, but the structural complexity of the connection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hanger connection creates an asymmetric offset of the pivot point from the central axis of the back deck. This asymmetric positioning changes the lever arm geometry, creating mechanical advantage by increasing the perpendicular distance from the pivot point to the line of action of the lifting force, thereby reducing the effort required to lift the back deck.
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 offset pivot point and elastic assistance mechanism reduce the effort needed to transition the futon frame, allowing for smoother conversion between sitting and lying positions, enhancing user convenience and reducing physical strain.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic cord, the other end of the elastic cord is secured to a second side of the back deck piece
Implementation Method 2
a first pulley are on a front of the bottom surface of the seat deck oriented in a first direction, and a pair of rear pulleys are on a rear of the bottom surface of the seat deck oriented in a second direction
Data Source
AI summary
A frame subassembly of a foldable bed frame includes a seat deck, a back deck, and armrests. The frame subassembly includes a portion of the seat deck connected to a portion of the back deck; and a fixed pivot point connecting the back deck to the armrests such that the fixed pivot point between the back deck and the armrests does not slide when the foldable bed frame transitions between a folded state and an unfolded state. The foldable bed frame may include a hanger connecting the armrest to the back deck such that the fixed pivot point therebetween is offset. The foldable bed frame may further include an assistance device configured to store elastic energy during a first transition, and release the stored elastic energy during a second transition.