Seat module and tilt mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing furniture for sitting, such as chairs and sofas, lack a comfortable and adjustable seating mechanism that allows continuous backrest angle adjustment without the need for locking mechanisms, and often require complex systems involving armrests or levers, which can be cumbersome and limit user convenience.
Innovation Solution
A seat module with a coupling element featuring rear and front grooves for smooth backrest and seat movement, integrated with a tilting mechanism comprising a central beam, elastic means, and a U-shaped profile for easy assembly and maintenance, allowing continuous adjustment and tilting without locking, suitable for various furniture configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a locking mechanism is used to adjust backrest angle, then the backrest position can be fixed, but the user cannot sit relaxed in any position continuously and the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the locking mechanism from the backrest adjustment system. Instead of using levers or locks to fix the backrest angle, the mechanism allows continuous adjustment without any locking components, enabling the user to sit relaxed in any position without having to figure out a system of levers
Solution Approach 2:
The backrest adjustment system transitions from a static locked position system to a dynamic continuous adjustment system. The backrest can be positioned anywhere along its range of motion without discrete locked positions, providing continuous adaptability to user comfort needs
2Adaptability or versatility
If the backrest is pivotally attached to armrests, then the adjustment mechanism can be simplified, but the solution cannot be used in chairs without armrests
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element serves multiple functions: it connects the backrest to the seat, provides the adjustment mechanism, and works with or without armrests. This universal design allows the same mechanism to be used in various chair types including dining chairs without armrests, office chairs, and sofas
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element acts as an intermediary component between the backrest and seat, consolidating the adjustment mechanism in one location underneath the seat. This eliminates the need for separate attachment systems for armrests and allows the mechanism to work independently of armrest presence
3Shape
If the adjustment mechanism is hidden under the seat, then the appearance is cleaner and armrest attachment is not needed, but the assembly and maintenance may become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is nested within the coupling element structure underneath the seat. The coupling element houses all adjustment components in a compact integrated unit, maintaining a clean appearance while allowing access through the coupling element design
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 user comfort and convenience by allowing seamless adjustment and tilting of the seat module without locking, simplifying assembly and maintenance, and maintaining a tidy appearance when not in use, while being adaptable for multiple seating arrangements.
Implementation Method 1
elastic means surrounding the central beam
Data Source
AI summary
There is described a seat module for use in furniture for sitting, the seat module comprising a backrest (1) and a seat (2) and a coupling element (3), the backrest (1) being adapted to run along rear grooves (7) arranged in respective sides of the coupling element at its rear edge, a rear portion of the seat (2) is connected to the backrest (1) and a front portion of the seat (2) is adapted to run along front grooves (9) arranged in respective sides of the coupling element in its leading edge. The seat module further comprises a tilting mechanism (15-19) connecting the coupling element with a support member or base (4).