Flexible Head Rest Collar for 3D Adjustment and Low Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head rests in commercial aircraft seats are not universally adjustable in three-dimensional space and require frequent maintenance due to the need for separate friction-providing elements.
Innovation Solution
A flexible collar and innovative slide assemblies with deformable projections are integrated into the head rest mechanism, allowing for independent pivoting and vertical adjustment, eliminating the need for separate friction elements and enhancing support for passengers of varying heights and reducing maintenance requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate friction-providing elements are used in slide assemblies, then adequate interference fit with guides is achieved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The friction-providing element is merged with the slide assembly itself. The slide includes deformable projections that directly provide the frictional interference fit with the guide, eliminating the need for separate friction elements. This integration reduces device complexity while maintaining reliable positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The slide incorporates deformable projections that can change their physical state - deformable under pressure to engage with the guide, then resilient to maintain positioning. This parameter change allows the slide to provide adequate interference fit through material deformation rather than separate components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If head rests are made adjustable in multiple directions, then adaptability to different passengers is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The head rest is segmented into multiple independently adjustable portions: a central portion and peripheral portions (ears or wings). Each portion can be adjusted independently in different directions, allowing three-dimensional adaptability while keeping each adjustment mechanism relatively simple and modular.
Solution Approach 2:
The head rest incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities where portions can move between fixed and adjustable states. The slide assemblies allow vertical movement with maintainable positions, enabling the head rest to adapt to different passenger needs while maintaining stability during use.
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 solution provides comprehensive three-dimensional adjustability and significantly reduces maintenance needs by integrating deformable projections into the slide assemblies, ensuring reliable and customizable head rest support for passengers.
Implementation Method 1
Deformable projections present in the slides provide adequate interference with associated guides to maintain the slides in positions desired by passengers
Implementation Method 2
deformable projections present in the slides provide adequate interference with associated guides
Data Source
AI summary
Detailed are head rest mechanisms and assemblies containing a flexible collar. Portions of the collar may be moved independently from other portions and may pivot or otherwise move both forward of the seat back and vertically under passenger control. Also described are slide assemblies containing deformable projections for use with vertically-adjustable head rests.