Aircraft Headrest Tensioner Bracket With Friction Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Adjustable aircraft headrests are challenging to implement due to complicated systems prone to failure and existing devices being heavy and expensive, necessitating a lightweight, simple, and inexpensive solution.
Innovation Solution
An aircraft headrest adjusting bracket that surrounds posts from the headrest, using a screw to apply a frictional force with protrusions on the interior surface increasing surface area contact for enhanced tensioning and load distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complicated systems are used for adjustable headrests, then adjustment functionality is achieved, but reliability deteriorates due to proneness to failure in heavy usage environment
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is divided into multiple components: a body portion, a movable side portion, and protrusions. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function while maintaining overall simplicity. The movable side portion can independently adjust to provide tensioning force, eliminating the need for complex mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential function of headrest adjustment by using a simple friction-based tensioning mechanism rather than complex motorized or pneumatic systems. The screw mechanism extracts only the necessary adjustment capability while removing unnecessary complexity that would reduce reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing headrest devices are used, then adjustment capability is provided, but weight increases making the system heavier
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket uses simple, lightweight materials and a minimalistic design that prioritizes function over durability of individual components. The friction-based mechanism uses basic elements like a screw and movable portion that can be made from lightweight materials, reducing overall weight compared to heavy-duty mechanical systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing headrest devices are used, then adjustment function is achieved, but cost increases making the device expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket performs self-adjustment through friction-based tensioning without requiring external motors, sensors, or control systems. The screw mechanism allows manual adjustment while the protrusions automatically engage with the headrest post, eliminating the need for expensive electronic control components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses simple geometric shapes and standard fastener designs that can be manufactured using conventional processes. The bracket body, movable portion, and protrusions can be produced through standard molding or machining operations, avoiding the need for expensive custom components.
4Ease of operation
If frictional force is applied through a screw, then tensioning control is achieved, but contact surface area decreases reducing load distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusions extend in a direction perpendicular to the main contact surface between the bracket and headrest post. This adds a dimensional element that increases the contact surface area without interfering with the screw's axial tensioning control. The protrusions wrap around the post, creating circumferential contact that distributes load while maintaining operational simplicity.
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 a lightweight, cost-effective, and reliable mechanism for adjusting aircraft headrests, ensuring consistent resistance and reducing the risk of fatigue, thus addressing the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
A screw displaces one side of the bracket to apply a frictional force to the headrest posts
Implementation Method 2
The protrusions on the interior surface of the bracket, proximal to each post, increases the surface area contact between the bracket and the posts when the screw is tightened
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
A headrest adjusting bracket (100) surrounds posts from the headrest (210). A screw (106) displaces one side (108) of the bracket (100) to apply a frictional force to the headrest posts (102, 104). Protrusions (112, 114) on the interior surface of the bracket (100), proximal to each post, increases the surface area contact between the bracket and the posts when the screw is tightened.