Motorcycle Seat Assembly with Removable Rear Element

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing motorcycle seat assemblies fail to balance comfort, aerodynamics, and functionality, particularly in high-speed motorcycles, where they often lack sufficient space for storing tools and accessories without compromising appearance or ease of access, and the location of locking mechanisms can be inconvenient and difficult to operate.

Innovation Solution

A seat assembly with a seat element that can be alternatively locked and removed, featuring connecting means at the front end and locking/unlocking mechanisms actuated from above, located at the rear end, allowing easy access and secure storage without obstructing the space under the seat.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the space under the seat is used for housing tools or clothing, then storage functionality is improved, but the appearance, aerodynamics, and comfort are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage functionalityVSAvoidaerodynamics and appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The seat is divided into two separate elements: a first seat element for the driver and a second seat element for the passenger. This segmentation allows the first seat element to be designed optimized for aerodynamics and appearance with minimal under-seat space, while the second seat element can be configured to provide adequate storage space without compromising the overall aerodynamic profile of the motorcycle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If locking means are made big or bulky to prevent theft, then security is improved, but weight, comfort, and ease of operation are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against theftVSAvoidease of locking and unlocking
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking means are integrated into the second seat element itself, merging the security function with the structural component. This allows the use of compact, lightweight locking mechanisms that maintain security while improving ease of operation and reducing overall weight compared to separate bulky locking systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The second seat element serves dual purposes: it provides structural support and housing for tools/clothing, while also incorporating the locking mechanism. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate locking components, reducing weight and improving operability while maintaining security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If a hinged seat element is used, then ease of opening is improved, but accidental closure and bulkiness of hinging systems worsen storage space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of opening seatVSAvoidstorage space under seat
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The hinging system is completely removed from the design. Instead of using a hinged connection that requires bulky mechanisms and risks accidental closure, the patent uses a removable second seat element that can be easily detached and reattached. This extraction of the hinging function eliminates the associated bulk and storage space consumption while preventing accidental closure issues.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Strength

If the locking means are located at the front end of the seat, then structural integrity is improved, but comfort and ease of operation are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidcomfort and accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of locating the locking means at the front end of the seat as in conventional designs, the patent inverts this arrangement by positioning the locking mechanism at the rear end of the second seat element. This inversion improves accessibility and comfort for the passenger while maintaining structural integrity through alternative reinforcement strategies in the seat structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentEP2030879B1A seat assembly for a motorcycle and a motorcycle equipped with such a seat assembly
Publication Date: 2010.01.20 YAMAHA MOTOR RES & DEV EURO SRL
  • EP2030879B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2030879B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2030879B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A seat assembly (1) for a motorcycle is provided according to the present application, said seat assembly (1) being adapted to be alternatively mounted or locked to and removed from said motor cycle, said seat assembly (1) comprising a seat element (2) with locking/unlocking means (2lu) being located in the rear end portion (2re) of said seat element (2), so as to improve the driving comfort for the driver or passenger. The seat element (2) of the seat assembly (1) according to the present application is also adapted to conveniently arrange or put away accessories such as a cycle lock or tools or the like below the seat assembly (1) and to further avoid annoying noises during driving due for instance to vibrations or the like of said accessories or tools.