Pneumatic Paddle for Adjustable Thoracic Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle seating assemblies lack effective adjustable upper back support that is both aesthetically pleasing and seamlessly integrated with the rest of the seat, failing to provide consistent comfort and thoracic support for occupants.
Innovation Solution
A seating assembly with a frame, a seatback, and a paddle mechanism featuring a lower pivot rod and a bladder that pivots between inflated and deflated conditions to adjust the upper thoracic cushion support, allowing the paddle to move between forward and rearward positions relative to the frame, providing dynamic support to the occupant's upper back and neck.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional upper back support is added to the seat, then thoracic support function is improved, but aesthetic appearance and seamless integration with the seat are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The paddle support structure is nested within the seatback, with the paddle retracting into a cavity in the seatback when not in use. This nesting approach allows the support function to be integrated seamlessly into the seat's overall design, maintaining aesthetic appearance while providing thoracic support when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The paddle is designed to be dynamically adjustable between retracted and extended positions through bladder inflation and deflation. This dynamic capability allows the support structure to adapt to different seating positions and occupant needs while maintaining a clean, integrated appearance when retracted.
2Ease of operation
If an adjustable upper back support is provided, then comfort and support are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A bladder inflated with air or fluid is used to actuate the paddle between retracted and extended positions. This pneumatic/hydraulic approach simplifies the actuation mechanism compared to traditional mechanical systems with motors, linkages, and control systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The paddle structure serves multiple functions: it provides thoracic support when extended, retracts into the seatback when not needed, and its movement is driven by a single bladder system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, thereby simplifying the overall device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the paddle is positioned forward to support the upper back, then thoracic support is improved, but the paddle occupies space within the seatback structure
Solution Approach 1:
The paddle is designed to nest within a cavity in the seatback when retracted, minimizing the space it occupies within the seatback structure. This nesting approach allows the paddle to be positioned forward when needed for support while occupying minimal internal space when retracted, maintaining both support capability and space efficiency.
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
The solution enhances comfort and reduces strain on the head and neck by offering adjustable upper back support that aligns with the seat's design, allowing for both upright and reclined positions, thereby improving overall seating experience and usability in various environments.
Implementation Method 1
A bladder disposed between the paddle and the frame is operable between an inflated condition, wherein the paddle is pivoted forward to support one of the upper back and neck of an occupant, and a deflated condition, wherein the paddle is pivoted rearward into the seatback
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle seating assembly includes a frame having first and second side members. A seatback and a head restraint are supported on the frame. A paddle includes a lower pivot rod pivotally coupled between the first and second side members of the frame. The paddle is disposed proximate a top portion of the seatback, below the head restraint. A bladder is disposed between the paddle and the frame and is operable between an inflated condition, wherein the paddle is pivoted forward to support one of the upper back and neck of an occupant, and a deflated condition, wherein the paddle is pivoted rearward into the seatback.