Seatback Coupling With Independent Linear and Angular Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing seatback adjustment mechanisms are limited in their ability to provide independent and flexible adjustments for both linear and angular positions, and often require complex power mechanisms or are not easily adaptable to different user needs.

Innovation Solution

A dual-adjustment device utilizing first and second linear actuators, each actuated by a cylindrical worm gear, allows for independent manual adjustment of the seatback's linear and angular positions relative to the seat, with a seatback coupling mechanism for secure attachment and a seat coupling mechanism for adjustable mounting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If powered mechanisms are used for seatback adjustment, then adjustment capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseatback adjustment capabilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The seatback adjustment mechanism allows the user to manually operate the worm gears directly to achieve linear and angular adjustments. The self-adjusting nature eliminates the need for powered mechanisms while maintaining full adjustment capability through simple manual cranking of the worm gears.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple adjustment functions are integrated, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment flexibilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment device is divided into two independent worm gear mechanisms: one for linear position adjustment and another for angular position adjustment. Each worm gear handles a specific adjustment function independently, allowing versatile multi-directional adjustment while keeping each individual mechanism simple and manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If manual adjustment mechanisms are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adjustment precision may be worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanism simplicityVSAvoidposition adjustment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The worm gear acts as an intermediary mechanism that converts simple manual rotational input into precise linear and angular displacements. The self-locking nature of the worm gear provides fine position control and maintains adjustment precision without requiring complex powered systems, achieving both simplicity and precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables versatile and user-friendly adjustment of seatback positions, accommodating diverse user preferences and uses, enhancing comfort and functionality by allowing independent manual control of linear and angular displacements.

Implementation Method 1

Each of the actuators takes the form of a cylindrical worm. The threads of each actuator mesh with a threaded recess of the sliding bed or teeth of the angle plate to form a worm gear.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWorm gear mechanism: Worm Drive

Implementation Method 2

The first linear actuator includes a first cylindrical worm, and threads of the first linear actuator mesh with a threaded recess of the sliding bed. The first linear actuator can be actuated about a first axis, and the sliding bed can translate between first and second linear positions in a direction that is parallel to the first axis.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThreaded engagement: Screw

Data Source

PatentEP4335424B1Adjustment device for removably coupling a seatback to a seat
Publication Date: 2026.04.01 BLAKE MEDICAL GRP INC
  • EP4335424B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4335424B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4335424B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An adjustment device for removably coupling a seatback to a seat. The adjustment device can include a first adjuster and/or a second adjuster for adjusting respective linear and angular positions of the seatback relative to the seat. The first adjuster can include a first linear actuator, a main body and a sliding bed. The second adjuster can include a second linear actuator, a sliding bed and an angle plate pivotably coupled to the sliding bed. The first and second linear actuators can each include a cylindrical worm. The first adjuster and the second adjuster can be independently actuatable to change the position of the seatback relative to the seat.