Rotating Triangular Seating Modules for Compact Reconfiguration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seating systems lack versatility and space efficiency, as they are typically fixed in design and cannot be easily reconfigured or compactly stored, limiting their adaptability in diverse settings such as children's areas or multi-functional rooms.
Innovation Solution
A modular seating system composed of eight prism-shaped modules with right-angled isosceles triangle base faces that can rotate and connect at corners, forming various three-dimensional configurations, including compact shapes, and can be upholstered with fabric or made of soft materials like foam rubber, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly using sewing, zip fasteners, or Velcro.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed-design seating systems are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but versatility and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The seating system is divided into eight independent modular elements with triangular base faces, each capable of being connected to adjacent modules at corner levels. This segmentation allows the system to be reconfigured into various three-dimensional configurations by rotating individual modules around connection corners, transforming a single complex fixed structure into multiple simple modular units that can be independently positioned and arranged.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular rotating elements are used, then reconfiguration versatility is improved, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple connection methods are merged into the modular system design: sewing connections for permanent assembly, zip fasteners for removable connections, and Velcro straps for adjustable positioning. This combination of connection techniques allows the same modular structure to serve different assembly needs, from permanent installations to flexible reconfigurations, without requiring complex specialized connection mechanisms for each module.
3Volume of moving object
If seating systems are designed for fixed configurations, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but space efficiency and storage compactness are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The seating system transitions from static fixed configurations to dynamic reconfigurable structures. Modules can be rotated around corner connections and repositioned to create compact storage configurations when not in use, or expanded into various seating arrangements when needed. This dynamic capability allows the system to minimize space occupation during storage while providing full functionality during use, eliminating the need for dedicated storage space for fixed-configuration systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A new seating system with one or more substantially horizontal or inclined seats or supporting surfaces, and/or one or more substantially vertical or inclined backs, includes eight prismatic modular elements or modules with opposite parallel base faces in the shape of right-angled isosceles triangles, each module being joined to at least one adjacent module at the level of one corner, wherein each module is configured to rotate around said connection corner relative to the module to which it is joined.