Multi-Position Spring-Locking Hinge for Adjustable Chair Reclination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Typical folding chairs with pivoting hinges are limited to two positions, offering minimal comfort and versatility, making them unsuitable for various uses beyond their primary function.
Innovation Solution
A multi-positional, spring-locking hinge system that allows the chair back frame to be secured in multiple in-use positions relative to the seat frame, enabling users to adjust the angle of reclination through a detachable rod with a biasing member and keyed components, facilitating free rotation and secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a typical folding hinge is used, then the chair can be folded for storage, but it only allows two positions (closed and open) which limits comfort and versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge system is divided into separate functional components: a hinge body with receptacle, a rod with keyed component, and a biasing member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while collectively enabling multiple positions without excessive overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge system transitions from a static two-position mechanism to a dynamic multi-position system where the rod can be secured at various angles along the arc of rotation through the keyed component engaging with the receptacle at different positions
2Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-positional hinge system is implemented, then comfort and versatility are enhanced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge system is designed as a universal multi-functional mechanism that can be applied to various chair types (folding chairs, boat chairs, multiple in-use position chairs). The same basic components (hinge body, rod, keyed component, biasing member) serve multiple functions: enabling rotation, providing multi-position locking, and maintaining engagement force
Solution Approach 2:
The keyed component is disposed on the rod in a nested arrangement where the keyed component can be positioned at different locations along the rod's length, allowing the same rod structure to accommodate multiple locking positions without requiring separate mechanisms for each position
3Reliability
If a spring-locking mechanism is used, then the rod can be securely locked in multiple positions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member automatically maintains engagement force between the keyed component and the receptacle without requiring external intervention. The spring-loaded mechanism self-adjusts to ensure reliable locking at any secured position, eliminating the need for additional adjustment mechanisms or manual force application
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical spring-based biasing member replaces more complex locking mechanisms that would require multiple moving parts, cam actions, or actuation systems. The simple spring-loaded keyed component provides reliable locking through basic mechanical principles without excessive 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
Enhances comfort and versatility by allowing multiple adjustable positions, improving user experience in various settings, including boats, parks, and vehicles, while maintaining ease of manufacturing and retrofitting.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member positioned on the rod. The biasing member may be configured to drive the rod axially toward the first hinge housing such that the first, keyed component may be biased toward engagement with the first, keyed receptacle
Implementation Method 2
The rod may be configured to define an axis of rotation about which the chair back frame and the chair seat frame move relative to each other
Data Source
AI summary
A chair add-on, a chair, a chair modification, a chair hinge, and/or a hinge system that may be used to provide enhanced seating comfort to users. It is preferred, but not necessary, that the chair add-on, the chair, the chair modification, the chair hinge, and/or the hinge system is easy to use by users of all ages.