Multimodal Headrest Mechanism for Helmet and Non-Helmet Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle seat headrests are cumbersome to adjust for different configurations, particularly when a pilot is wearing or not wearing a helmet, as they require separate mechanisms and fail to adapt to the extra occipital thickness caused by the helmet, leading to unsuitable support in both scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A headrest mechanism that combines height and inclination adjustments using a single mechanism, allowing for forward/backward and up/down movement along axes X and Z, with a spring-loaded locking system enabling quick and secure positioning for both occipital and cervical support, accommodating various pilot sizes and helmet usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate mechanisms are used for height and inclination adjustments, then each adjustment function can be controlled independently, but the handling becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines height adjustment and inclination adjustment into a single integrated mechanism. The headrest assembly includes a height adjustment mechanism and an inclination adjustment mechanism that work together through a unified structure, allowing both adjustments to be controlled simultaneously or sequentially through one operational interface rather than separate mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the headrest is designed for standard head support, then it provides adequate support for unhelmeted occupants, but it fails to adapt to the extra occipital thickness created by helmet wearing
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities that allow it to adapt to different occupancy conditions. The mechanism enables real-time modification of headrest position and angle to accommodate varying occipital thickness, whether the occupant is wearing a helmet or not, ensuring continuous adaptability to changing support requirements.
3Productivity
If multiple adjustment functions are integrated into a single mechanism, then rapid handling is enabled, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is designed with multi-functionality, where a single operational interface controls both height and inclination adjustments. This universal mechanism can perform multiple adjustment functions through one coordinated system, enabling rapid repositioning of the headrest for different occupancy scenarios without requiring separate control mechanisms for each function.
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 adaptable head support for pilots with or without helmets, reducing cervical tension and improving comfort by allowing a single-handed adjustment to various stable positions, ensuring effective support across different pilot morphologies and helmet configurations.
Implementation Method 1
with a spring-loaded locking system enabling quick and secure positioning for both occipital and cervical support
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The invention relates to a seat for a vehicle, that comprises a headrest (1) with a headstall (2) for supporting the head (51) of a passenger (5) in the seat, wherein said occupant may or may not wear a protection helmet (52) depending on the circumstances, characterised in that the headstall (2) can assume at least three stable positions: a first position for the cervical support of the head of the seat passenger in which the headrest (1) provides a cervical support function with or without wearing a helmet (52); a second position for the occipital support of the head of the seat passenger in which the headrest (1) provides an occipital support function without wearing a helmet (52); a third position for the occipital support of the head of the seat passenger in which the headrest (1) provides an occipital support function while wearing a helmet (52).