Chair frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Adirondack and Muskoka chairs are costly to manufacture and require significant assembly, with frames prone to racking due to their traditional construction methods.
Innovation Solution
A modular chair design featuring a triangular or truncated triangular frame structure with a base forming an X-configuration, allowing for secure mechanical attachment of side and back frames to a central base, providing a durable and cost-effective assembly that prevents racking and allows for height adjustment and easy stacking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional Adirondack or Muskoka chair construction methods are used, then the chairs achieve a distinctive appearance and recreational functionality, but they require significant assembly and are costly to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The chair is divided into modular components including a base with X-configured leg portions, side frames, a back frame, and a seat. Each component can be manufactured separately and assembled together using simple mechanical connections, reducing both manufacturing complexity and assembly requirements while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The base integrates both support and stacking functions through its X-configuration design. The leg portions are positioned to provide structural stability while also enabling chairs to stack vertically when not in use, combining multiple functions into a single component structure
2Strength
If traditional chair frame construction is used, then the frames can support the chair structure, but they are prone to racking
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is segmented into triangular sections formed by the base leg portions and side frames. These triangular configurations are inherently rigid and resistant to racking, while the modular segments can be independently manufactured and assembled
Solution Approach 2:
The base leg portions are positioned asymmetrically in an X-configuration rather than a traditional four-legged arrangement. This asymmetric positioning creates triangular support structures that are more resistant to racking forces while maintaining chair stability
3Ease of manufacture
If modular components are used to reduce manufacturing cost, then the chair becomes cost-effective to manufacture, but the structural durability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The chair is divided into modular components that can be manufactured using cost-effective processes. The base, side frames, back frame, and seat are separate pieces that assemble together, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining structural integrity through proper connection design
Solution Approach 2:
The base includes pre-formed X-configured leg portions with integrated connection points. These preliminary structural elements are designed to receive and secure the side frames and back frame, ensuring structural durability is maintained from the outset of assembly rather than requiring additional reinforcement
Data Source
AI summary
A chair, according to the present invention has an inverted pyramidal shape primarily determined by triangular side and back frames of the chair. The frames include two side frames and a back frame and preferably a smaller front frame. Each side frame is secured to a central portion of a pedestal type base and extends upwardly and outwardly from the base. Each frame adjacent an upper edge is mechanically secured to an adjacent frame with the frames cooperating to form a ‘U’ shape generally at the height corresponding to side arms of the chair. A support seat is provided in the frames and the side frames define arms of the chair. A back support is secured to the back frame at a position intermediate the height of the back support with a lower edge of said back support joining with a rear edge of the support seat. The side frames and back frame between said seat and an upper edge of the frames are of a triangular or truncated triangular shape.