Aircraft Seat Headrest Assembly for 3D Passenger Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing headrests for commercial aircraft seats lack universal three-dimensional adjustability and require frequent maintenance due to passenger use, failing to meet the diverse needs of passengers.
Innovation Solution
A seat assembly with a collar and slide mechanism that allows for vertical adjustment and lateral support through flexible rods and resiliency members, enabling passengers to customize headrest positioning in three-dimensional space, using a combination of screws, washers, and rivets for secure attachment to the seat back.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing headrest mechanisms are used, then basic vertical adjustment is provided, but three-dimensional adjustability is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest is divided into multiple independent adjustable segments: a central portion for vertical movement, and peripheral portions (ears/wings) that can be adjusted both vertically and laterally. Each segment has its own adjustment mechanism, allowing three-dimensional positioning independently to accommodate different passenger needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional one-dimensional (vertical only) or two-dimensional adjustment to three-dimensional adjustment by adding lateral movement capability to the peripheral portions. This enables adjustment in vertical, lateral, and angular dimensions simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanically-adjustable portions are added for three-dimensional support, then adjustability is improved, but maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanisms are designed to be passenger-operable without requiring maintenance intervention. The mechanisms include self-latching features and intuitive controls that allow passengers to adjust the headrest independently, reducing the need for frequent maintenance while maintaining high adjustability.
3Ease of operation
If multiple adjustment mechanisms are implemented, then passenger comfort is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple adjustment functions are combined into integrated mechanisms. The peripheral portions are connected to the central portion through linkages that allow simultaneous vertical and lateral adjustment through coordinated movement, reducing the number of separate mechanisms while maintaining comprehensive adjustability for passenger comfort.
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 provides enhanced adjustability and reduced maintenance needs by allowing passengers to customize headrest support in three-dimensional space, accommodating various torso lengths and positions, thereby improving passenger comfort and extending the lifespan of the headrest.
Implementation Method 1
resiliency members, enabling passengers to customize headrest positioning
Data Source
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AI summary
Detailed are head rest mechanisms (38) and assemblies containing a flexible collar (14). Portions of the collar may be moved independently from other portions and may pivot or otherwise move both forward of the seat back and vertically under passenger control. Also described are slide assemblies (18) containing deformable projections for use with vertically-adjustable head rests.