Adjustable Seat Pan Drop Down Link Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional aircraft passenger seats with a seat bottom angled at 2-6° are not practical for tasks like working or eating, as they require occupants to adjust their position, which is undesirable for executive or VIP seating.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable seat pan mechanism that can pivot between a flat position and an angled position of approximately 2-6°, allowing the seat to be adjusted by an occupant using a drop-down link and catch member system, enabling comfortable use for various activities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the seat bottom is angled at 2-6° to improve comfort during extended sitting, then comfort is improved, but the ability to work or eat comfortably deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The seat pan is made dynamically adjustable between two fixed positions (flat and angled 2-6°) through a linkage mechanism with catch members. This allows the seat to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements, providing comfort during extended sitting when angled and versatility for working or eating when flat.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the seat pan is made adjustable between flat and angled positions to improve versatility, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into discrete components: a linkage member with distinct first and second ends, catch members positioned at specific locations, and engagement features. This segmentation allows for a relatively simple mechanical structure that achieves the desired adjustability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism uses dynamic engagement and disengagement of catch members with the linkage to achieve position changes. This dynamic approach allows for simple mechanical operation between two fixed positions without requiring complex continuous adjustment systems.
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
Provides enhanced comfort and usability by allowing the seat to be easily adjusted between flat and angled positions, accommodating different activities without compromising the comfort benefits of an angled seat during flight.
Implementation Method 1
a seat pan (12) pivotally connected to the seat frame (14) so as to be able to change its angle with respect to the seat frame (14)
Data Source
AI summary
A chair having an adjustable seat pan is disclosed. The chair includes a seat frame having a front end and a rear end, a seat back attached to the rear end of the seat frame, a seat pan pivotally connected to the seat frame, and a seat drop down link having a first end attached to the seat frame and a second end in contact with a catch member located beneath the seat pan so that the seat pan can be raised and lowered from a flat position to approximately a 6° angle with respect to the seat frame.