Segmented Hinged Frame Cushion for Adaptable Armrests and Backrests
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional armchairs and sofas lack the ability to accommodate non-orthodox body positions comfortably, as their fixed back and armrest designs do not adapt to varying user positions without compromising ergonomics or increasing cost.
Innovation Solution
An element with variable shape, comprising a soft cushion and a fixed frame with independently hinged movable frames, allowing for multiple configurations of the back, sides, or armrests, which can be stabilized and easily adjusted using movement control means, enabling the furniture to conform to different body positions without revealing internal rigid elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed frame designs are used for backs and armrests, then structural stability is maintained, but adaptability to different body positions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest is divided into multiple independent segments that can rotate relative to each other around pivot axes. Each segment can be independently positioned to accommodate different body contours, while the segments remain connected through hinges to maintain overall structural integrity and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The backrest transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic adjustable structure. The movable frames can rotate between fixed angular positions around pivot axes, allowing the backrest to adapt its shape dynamically to match different body positions while maintaining structural stability through controlled positioning mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If movable components are added to enable configuration changes, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest is segmented into multiple movable frames connected by hinges, allowing independent rotation of each segment. This segmentation enables configuration changes through simple rotational movements rather than complex mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while improving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The design uses simple hinge joints and gravity-assisted positioning rather than motors or complex actuation systems. The movable frames can be easily repositioned by the user and maintain their positions through gravitational stability, reducing mechanical complexity while enabling multiple configurations.
3Ease of operation
If soft cushion material is used, then comfort and pliability improve, but structural support deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest combines soft cushioning material with an internal rigid frame structure. The soft outer layer provides comfort and pliability that conforms to the body, while the internal rigid frame maintains structural support and prevents excessive deformation, creating a composite structure that delivers both comfort and strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The cushion acts as a flexible outer shell that envelops the rigid internal frame. This flexible covering provides the necessary softness and conformability for comfort, while the rigid frame underneath maintains structural integrity and support, effectively separating the comfort function from the structural support function.
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
This solution provides a wide range of customizable configurations that enhance comfort by allowing the furniture to adapt to various body positions, maintaining pliability and stability while keeping costs negligible, thus addressing the limitations of conventional seating designs.
Implementation Method 1
each of the above mentioned movable frames being hinged, independently from the other, at the top of said fixed frame along at least one pivot axis
Implementation Method 2
movement control means associated to said pivot axes, aimed at locking and unlocking the rotation of the movable frames, in order to enable them to assume said different positions with respect to the fixed frame and to stabilize each assumed position
Data Source
AI summary
The element with variable shape (1) is composed of a cushion (10), having inside a fixed frame (20), which involves a lower section (13) of said cushion (10) and two symmetrical movable frames (25A), (25B), hinged above said fixed frame (20) and aimed at involving an upper section (14) of the cushion (10).The movable frames (25A), (25B) can rotate by 180° independently from each other, to direct a respective portion (14A), (14B) of said upper section (14) from an external horizontal configuration (HE) to an inner horizontal configuration (HI), passing through a vertical neutral configuration (N), in which the portion (14A), (14B) is substantially aligned with said lower section (13).The back (100) and sides (110) of a sofa (D) or armchair (P) are defined by respective elements (1), which can be configured in many ways so as to offer the maximum sitting comfort.