Inflatable Foundation Block for Flat Bed Conversion of Facing Seats
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft passenger seating lacks the ability to transform into a comfortable, horizontal bed surface for passengers to lie on their back, side, or stomach during long flights, due to structural limitations and high costs associated with mechanically convertible seats.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible inflatable foundation block with a top pad and filler pads, secured by flexible belts and lateral extensions, creates a flat, continuous bed surface between two facing seats, addressing issues of stability, comfort, and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If two aircraft passenger seats are arranged face to face to provide luxury and comfort, then passenger comfort is improved, but the space between seats increases creating leg space interference
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the space between face-to-face seats into functional zones using the foundation block structure, creating a defined sleeping area that separates leg space from resting space, thereby preventing interference while maintaining comfort
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning the foundation block between the seat legs and cabin floor, effectively using unused vertical space to create a horizontal sleeping surface without reducing the horizontal leg space between seats
2Adaptability or versatility
If aircraft passenger seats are mechanically converted to form a bed structure, then bed functionality is provided, but the cost of seats increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a separate foundation block assembly as an intermediary component that provides bed functionality without modifying the expensive passenger seats themselves, thereby avoiding the high cost of mechanically convertible seats while achieving the same versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The foundation block uses simpler, less expensive materials and construction methods compared to mechanically convertible seat systems, providing a cost-effective alternative that achieves bed functionality without the $20,000-$40,000 price tag of convertible seats
3Adaptability or versatility
If aircraft passenger seats are converted to bed structure, then sleeping surface is provided, but the surface is not flat preventing comfortable side or stomach sleeping
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the seating surface into multiple adjustable sections (seat cushion, seat back, foundation block) that can be independently positioned to create a flat composite surface, enabling comfortable sleeping in various positions
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs dynamic, adjustable components including inflatable foundation blocks and positionable filler pads that can be adjusted during use to achieve the desired flat surface configuration, transforming from fixed curved seat surfaces to a adaptable flat sleeping surface
4Ease of operation
If foundation block is used to form bed surface between seats, then horizontal sleeping surface is created, but the foundation block may shift or become dislodged
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates preliminary securing measures including attachment mechanisms and positioning features built into the foundation block design that prevent shifting and dislodgement before use, ensuring stability is established in advance
Solution Approach 2:
The foundation block design replicates the structural attachment features of fixed seat installations, using similar mounting mechanisms and connection points to achieve the same level of stability and prevent movement 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 a secure, comfortable, and cost-effective way to transform two facing aircraft seats into a horizontal bed surface, allowing passengers to rest for extended periods without discomfort or structural instability.
Implementation Method 1
A collapsible foundation block is adapted to form a space filling function as to a space between two face to face seats
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a device which quickly and inexpensively transforms two, face to face aircraft passenger seats into a horizontal bed surface adapted to provide a user with a flat surface upon which a user may lie on their back, side or stomach. A collapsible foundation block is adapted to form a space filling function as to a space between two face to face seats that are secured to a floor structure forming a horizontal surface. The foundation block is preferably inflatable and is supported from a floor surface between the two face to face seats, whereafter a supporting structure of the foundation block rises to a top surface generally parallel to the floor. The elevation of the top surface is approximately a level of a top surface of seat cushions of the two facing seats.