Headrest Adjustment Device Using Single Drive for Height and Tilt
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing headrest adjustment devices for furniture and vehicle seats are often expensive and lack a simple, compact design for both height and inclination adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A headrest adjustment device featuring a frame, a tilt adjustment device with a swivelable support element, a height adjustment mechanism using a tube and rod system, and a single drive means that allows for both height and inclination adjustment, with a spring element and linear actuator for motorized operation, providing a clear and aesthetically pleasing design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate drive means are used for height and inclination adjustment, then adjustment functionality is complete, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines height adjustment and inclination adjustment into a single integrated drive means. The linear actuator drives the rod through a connecting piece and articulated arm mechanism, where the same drive unit performs both functions sequentially, eliminating the need for separate motors and control systems for each adjustment type.
Solution Approach 2:
The single drive means is designed to perform multiple functions: it adjusts the height of the headrest by moving the rod vertically, and then adjusts the inclination by rotating the articulated arm. This multi-functional design reduces overall system complexity while maintaining complete adjustment capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple moving parts are used for adjustment mechanisms, then adjustment range is sufficient, but visual appearance becomes cluttered
Solution Approach 1:
The rod is guided inside the tube, with the connecting piece and articulated arm mechanism nested within the tube structure. This nesting arrangement conceals the moving parts within the existing structural elements, maintaining a clean and simple visual appearance while providing full adjustment functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting piece acts as an intermediary element that transfers motion from the linear actuator to the articulated arm, enabling inclination adjustment without requiring additional external mechanisms. This intermediary component is integrated into the existing structure, minimizing visual clutter.
3Device complexity
If a single drive means is used for both height and inclination adjustment, then device complexity is reduced, but adjustment sequence becomes constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism dynamically transitions between two adjustment modes: first performing vertical height adjustment through linear motion of the rod, then performing inclination adjustment through rotation of the articulated arm. The system adapts its motion pattern based on the adjustment stage, allowing complete functionality with a single drive unit.
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 efficient and cost-effective adjustment of headrest height and inclination using a single drive means, optimizing user comfort with a compact and visually appealing design, while minimizing visible moving parts.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element which is pushed up onto the portion and is supported with one end on the tube and with another end on the fastening element
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The adjustment device according to the invention for a headrest has essentially the following features: - a frame, - a tilt adjustment device with which the inclination of the headrest can be adjusted, with the tilt adjustment device comprising at least one support element for securing the headrest, - a height adjustment device comprising at least one tube, wherein the support element for securing the headrest is supported so as to be swivelable about a swivel axis at an end portion of the tube, and the tube is slidably guided in the frame, thus enabling the headrest to be height-adjustable relative to the frame, and - at least one drive means that is connected to the height adjustment device and is operatively connected to the tube for the purpose of displacing same. The tilt adjustment device further comprises a rod that is guided inside the tube and coupled at one of its ends with the support element, with a displacement of the rod relative to the tube causing the support element to swivel about the swivel axis, thereby effecting an adjustment of the inclination of the headrest.