Removable Backrest Hinge Mechanism for Cab Space Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rear berths in industrial vehicle cabs do not provide adequate comfort for drivers or passengers when they need to assume seated positions in other areas of the cab for activities like watching TV, reading, or eating, as they obstruct the space and do not offer optimal support.

Innovation Solution

A removable backrest consisting of two parts, one larger and one smaller, connected at a median front line with the smaller part hinged to turn upwards and fill the retraction space of the larger part, forming a compact shape that does not obstruct the rear bed and provides adjustable support with Velcro fastening and padding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a fixed rear berth is installed in the vehicle cab, then sleeping comfort is improved, but the space for other activities (seating, watching TV, reading) is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesleeping comfortVSAvoidspace flexibility for multiple activities

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The backrest is divided into two separate parts: a larger volume part and a smaller volume part. These segments can be independently positioned and configured, allowing the system to adapt to different spatial requirements within the vehicle cab while maintaining support functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The smaller volume part is connected via a hinge mechanism that allows it to rotate between different positions. This dynamic configuration enables the backrest to transition between providing full sleeping support and creating open space for other activities, making the system adaptable to varying user needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If a large volume backrest is used to provide adequate seating support, then comfort is improved, but it obstructs the rear bed space

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseating comfortVSAvoidrear bed space

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The smaller volume part can be extracted or removed from the configuration when full seating support is not needed, allowing the larger volume part to be positioned without obstructing the rear bed space, thus resolving the conflict between comfort and space occupation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a removable backrest is designed to be easily repositioned, then versatility is improved, but structural stability may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverepositioning capabilityVSAvoidstructural stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The hinge connection allows rotational movement while maintaining a stable arc-shaped path, providing both repositioning capability and structural stability during movement and in fixed positions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The backrest components are designed as simple, lightweight elements that can be easily repositioned or reconfigured, prioritizing versatility over permanent stability, suitable for temporary seating needs in mobile environments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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 backrest offers enhanced comfort and flexibility by allowing the backrest to be positioned optimally for seating while not obstructing the rear bed, and can be easily moved and reused in other parts of the cab, providing both support and space efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

smaller volume part 5 is hinged and may turn about this line 6

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHinge: Hinge

Implementation Method 2

extensions 14 of Velcro tape, e.g. male Velcro, which, when the smaller volume part is tipped upwards, are fastened on the equivalent parts of Velcro tape 15

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVelcro: Velcro

Data Source

PatentEP2028038B1Removable backrest for industrial or commercial vehicle cab interior, and vehicle cab provided with such removable backrest

Publication Date: 2012.10.17 IVECO SPA

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Figure 3~4
Figure 5~7

AI summary

A removable backrest for vehicle cab interior is described, essentially consisting of two parts, a larger volume part and a smaller volume part; the two parts are connected together on an intermediate front line; the smaller volume part is hinged and may turn about the intermediate line, so that when its is turned upwards it fills the retraction space of the shape of the said larger volume part, so as to mate with the latter.