Parallel-Platform Hinge for Sofa Backrest Adjustment Without Seat Cuts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanisms for adjusting sofa backrests to achieve different depths require a cut in the seat perpendicular to the backrest, limiting design flexibility, aesthetics, and usability in certain models.
Innovation Solution
A hinge with a first and second holding platform connected by right-angle angular elements, allowing parallel movement of the backrest without needing a cut in the seat, utilizing articular joints to maintain platform parallelism and enable forwards and backwards movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing mechanisms are used to move the backrest forwards and backwards, then two different sofa depths can be achieved, but a cut must be made in the seat perpendicular to the backrest
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a hinge mechanism with two holding platforms and connecting elements as an intermediary device between the backrest and the seat. This hinge acts as a mediator that enables backrest movement without requiring direct modification of the seat structure, thus avoiding the need for cuts in the seat while still achieving adjustable depth functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the dimensional approach by using a hinge mechanism that operates in a different spatial dimension. Instead of modifying the seat horizontally (which would require cuts), the hinge allows the backrest to move forward and backward along an articulated path, effectively utilizing vertical and angular dimensions to achieve the same functional outcome without compromising seat integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a cut is made in the seat perpendicular to the backrest, then the backrest can be moved forwards and backwards, but the aesthetics are damaged and design is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism serves as an intermediary that enables backrest movement without directly modifying the seat's visual appearance. By placing the articulation mechanism in the hinge rather than in the seat itself, the seat maintains its original aesthetic form while the hinge handles the mechanical complexity of movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the articulation mechanism from the seat structure and places it in a separate hinge component. This separation allows the seat to maintain its aesthetic integrity while the hinge provides the necessary movement capability, effectively taking out the functional requirement from the aesthetic element.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a cut is made in the seat perpendicular to the backrest, then backrest adjustment is possible, but dirt can easily enter the hole
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge acts as an intermediary barrier that prevents direct exposure of the articulation mechanism to the environment. By housing the movement mechanism within the hinge structure rather than creating an open hole in the seat, the design prevents dirt and debris from entering while still allowing smooth backrest adjustment through the hinge's articulated connection.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the seat cannot be fitted with a cut or joint in the centre, then many sofa models are excluded, but existing mechanisms cannot be used
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is designed as a universal component that can be applied to various sofa models without requiring modifications to the seat structure. The hinge's articulated design with two holding platforms and connecting elements provides a multi-functional solution that accommodates different sofa configurations while maintaining compatibility across various models, eliminating the need for seat cuts or joints.
Data Source
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AI summary
Hinge to move the backrest of a sofa forwards or backwards comprising a first holding platform (1) and a second holding platform (2) arranged parallel to the first holding platform (1) and placed one after the other, both platforms being connected to each other by a first angular element (3) and a second connecting element (4).