Adjustable Lumbar Support with Indexing Slider and Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backpacks for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) lack a simple and robust lumbar support adjustment mechanism that can be indexed to different positions and rotated to accommodate user motion, which is crucial for first responders in agile environments.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable lumbar support system featuring a slider assembly with a locking slider and retention covers, allowing the lumbar support pad to be indexed and rotated relative to the backpack chassis, utilizing a connector arrangement with a spring clip for self-centering and resilient resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lumbar support is rigidly attached to the chassis of the backpack, then the lumbar support is firmly secured to the backpack, but it does not permit rotation relative to the backpack chassis to accommodate the motion of the user
Solution Approach 1:
The connector arrangement includes a button with a groove and a spring clip that allows the lumbar support pad to rotate or deflect about a central axis relative to the chassis. This dynamic connection permits controlled movement while maintaining secure attachment, resolving the contradiction between firm attachment and rotation capability.
2Device complexity
If the lumbar support is rigidly attached to the chassis, then the structure is simple and robust, but it cannot be adjusted to different positions on the backpack
Solution Approach 1:
The connector arrangement is divided into separate components: a button with a groove, a spring clip, and a locating pin. This segmentation allows the lumbar support to be adjusted to different positions along the chassis while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. The modular design enables position changes without requiring complete disassembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the lumbar support is adjustable to different positions, then it can accommodate different users, but the adjustment mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The spring clip automatically engages with the groove in the button and the locating pin on the chassis, providing self-centering and resilient resistance without requiring additional locking mechanisms or complex adjustment procedures. This self-service feature enables position adjustment while minimizing mechanism complexity.
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 easy and secure adjustment of the lumbar support along the backpack's length and rotation to accommodate user motion, enhancing comfort and efficiency for first responders.
Implementation Method 1
the connector arrangement comprises at least one spring clip that is substantially 'U'-shaped having two extending primary legs connected by a transition portion, wherein at least a portion of the slider assembly further includes a locating pin spaced from the button, such that the transition portion contacts the pin and the extending legs engage and straddle the groove of the button, such that rotation of the lumbar support pad relative to the chassis is resisted by resiliently spreading the two extending legs
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An adjustable lumbar support for mounting upon the chassis of a backpack has a lumbar support pad and a slider assembly slidably attaching the lumbar support pad to the chassis. The assembly has a locking slider that, together with the support pad, is indexable to at least two different positions along the chassis. A backpack may have such an adjustable lumbar support.