Seat usage prevention device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for social distancing in vehicles, such as removing seats or posting warnings, are labor-intensive or ineffective in preventing seat usage during epidemics, particularly for airborne diseases.
Innovation Solution
A seat usage prevention device that attaches to passenger seats to prevent comfortable sitting, creating physical barriers and designating non-sitting areas, which can include cushions, enclosures, and amenity consoles with storage and hygiene items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional bulkhead dividers are used to separate seats, then seat separation is achieved, but passenger comfort deteriorates due to cold surfaces and lack of privacy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible fabric separators instead of rigid bulkheads. These fabric separators can be positioned between seats to provide visual privacy while allowing air circulation and maintaining a warmer, more comfortable environment. The flexible nature of the fabric eliminates the cold surface problem associated with traditional rigid dividers.
Solution Approach 2:
The amenity console serves as an intermediary element between seats. It includes features like retractable barriers, power outlets, and storage compartments that provide functional separation and privacy without creating the harsh environmental conditions of traditional bulkheads. The console acts as a mediating structure that balances separation needs with comfort requirements.
2Reliability
If rigid bulkhead dividers are installed to prevent seat usage, then seat access is controlled, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic, adjustable barriers rather than fixed rigid structures. The retractable barriers in the amenity console can be moved or repositioned as needed, allowing flexible control of seat access without permanent installation. This dynamic approach reduces installation complexity while maintaining reliable access control when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation system is divided into modular components - individual fabric separators, discrete amenity console units with separate functional elements. This segmentation allows for easier installation and adjustment compared to large rigid bulkheads, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining effective seat access control.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional bulkheads are used for seat separation, then privacy is provided, but air circulation deteriorates leading to uncomfortable temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
Flexible fabric separators provide visual privacy while remaining permeable to air flow. Unlike solid bulkheads, these fabrics allow air circulation to pass through, preventing temperature buildup and maintaining comfortable environmental conditions while still providing the necessary privacy.
Solution Approach 2:
The amenity console design incorporates open structures and gaps that mediate between privacy needs and air circulation requirements. The console provides visual separation and privacy while its design allows air to flow around and through it, preventing the temperature issues associated with enclosed bulkhead structures.
Data Source
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AI summary
A seat usage prevention device is disclosed. The seat usage prevention device includes at least one device component (120, 305, 405, 505, 605, 705, 805) being configured to interact with one or more seat components of a first seat. The device component is configured to prevent usage of at least one of a seat pan or seatback of the first seat. The device component further separates a second seat from at least a third seat, wherein the third seat is proximate to at least one of the first seat or the second seat. The seat usage prevention device may include a device component that further includes a cushion, a base, an amenity console, or a vertical separator, or combination thereof.