Quick-Release Mounting Fitting for Tool-Free Seat Repositioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seat mounting systems in vehicles and aircraft require multiple fasteners and tools for repositioning, making them time-consuming and difficult to adjust during flight or other dynamic conditions.
Innovation Solution
A quick-release mounting fitting with a rotatable knob and spring mechanism that allows easy locking and unlocking by twisting, eliminating the need for tools and simplifying seat repositioning along tracks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fasteners (screws, bolts) are used to secure the fitting to the track, then the locking is reliable and secure, but the system requires multiple additional fastener parts, tools, and time for fastening and unfastening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking function directly into the fitting body by integrating a locking mechanism with a rotatable knob that engages with the track. This eliminates the need for separate fasteners (screws, bolts) and combines multiple functions (mounting and locking) into a single integrated component, reducing the number of parts while maintaining reliable locking
2Reliability
If traditional fasteners are used to secure the fitting, then the locking is secure, but the system requires time and labour to fasten and unfasten the fitting
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting incorporates a self-contained locking mechanism with a rotatable knob that can be easily operated by the user without external tools. The spring mechanism automatically engages and disengages the locking balls with the track grooves when the knob is rotated, enabling quick one-handed operation for both locking and unlocking, significantly reducing the time required compared to traditional fastener systems
3Reliability
If traditional fasteners are used, then the seat can be secured in position, but the system cannot be easily locked or unlocked during flight
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated locking mechanism with rotatable knob is designed for simple manual operation that can be performed quickly with one hand. The spring-loaded locking balls automatically engage with the track grooves when the knob is rotated into the locked position, and disengage when the knob is rotated to unlock. This self-contained design eliminates the need for tools and complex procedures, making it feasible to lock and unlock during flight operations
4Reliability
If multiple fasteners are used to secure the fitting, then the locking is secure, but additional fastener parts and tools are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the locking mechanism directly into the fitting body, combining the mounting and locking functions into a single component. The rotatable knob with spring-loaded locking balls replaces multiple separate fasteners (screws, bolts, nuts), reducing the bill of materials and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining secure locking capability
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 rapid and tool-free adjustment of seats by twisting a knob, enhancing flexibility and efficiency in changing seat positions without the need for additional fasteners.
Implementation Method 1
a spring mechanism mounted within a spring mechanism housing mounted within the knob, wherein the spring mechanism is biased to engage the knob to the spring mechanism housing
Implementation Method 2
the spring mechanism comprises a bearing ball biased relative to the housing by a spring
Implementation Method 3
the spring mechanism comprises a bearing ball biased relative to the housing by a spring
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting fitting for mounting an object to a surface and releasably locking the object in one or more positions relative to the surface, the mounting fitting comprising an elongate fitting body (10) comprising a first portion (11) configured to be attached to the object, in use, and a second portion (12) having a locking mechanism (30) configured to releasably lock the fitting relative to the surface, in use, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a rotatable knob (13) having an elongate protrusion (132) extending therefrom and a spring mechanism (24, 25) mounted within a spring mechanism housing (20) mounted within the knob (13), wherein the spring mechanism is biased to engage the knob (13) to the spring mechanism housing (20), and wherein application of a twisting force to the knob rotates the knob against the force of the spring mechanism relative to the spring mechanism housing to change the orientation of the protrusion (132) relative to the fitting body (10).