Self-Adjusting Seat Linkage for Compact Stowage and Easy Sitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable seats do not effectively address the issues of integration with environments when unoccupied, comfort during sitting and rising, and functionality for different environments, as they lack mechanisms for automatic adjustment and versatility in design.
Innovation Solution
A seat design featuring a movable seat squab that automatically adjusts the backrest upward when the user sits, allowing for intuitive use, easy stowage, and adaptability between chair and stool modes without external power, with features like gas springs, linkages, and guide members for smooth movement and ergonomic adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the seat height is increased to reduce the distance for users to get on, then it becomes harder to stow the seat under tables and desks
Solution Approach 1:
The seat employs a dynamic height adjustment mechanism where the seat squab automatically moves between a raised position (for ease of sitting) and a lowered position (for compact stowage). The linkage system connects the seat squab to the backrest, enabling the seat to transition between extended and retracted configurations based on usage state.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the seat provides fixed chair functionality, then it lacks versatility for different environments, but if it is made adjustable, then the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The seat is designed to provide multiple seating configurations (chair mode with backrest extended, stool mode with backrest retracted) through a single integrated mechanism. The linkage system enables the backrest to automatically adjust its position based on seat squab movement, providing versatile functionality without requiring separate adjustment controls for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat employs self-adjusting mechanisms where the linkage system automatically positions the backrest relative to the seat squab without user intervention. When the user sits or stands, the weight change automatically triggers the linkage to adjust the backrest angle and position, eliminating the need for manual controls or power sources.
3Ease of operation
If manual adjustment mechanisms are provided, then user control is possible, but the ease of operation is reduced for users with restricted movement
Solution Approach 1:
The seat automatically detects user presence and adjusts its configuration through the linkage mechanism. When weight is applied to the seat squab, the system self-adjusts the backrest position and seat height without requiring any manual input from the user, making it accessible to users with restricted movement capabilities.
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 seat provides enhanced comfort and versatility by automatically adjusting to a suitable sitting position, reducing clutter, and accommodating different user needs, including those with restricted movement, while offering both chair and stool functionality without external operation.
Implementation Method 1
The seat squab may be biased upwardly, for example, by means of a gas spring.
Data Source
AI summary
A seat comprises a seat squab (12), a supporting structure (15) and a backrest (14), in use, the seat squab (12) being movable in a substantially downward direction relative to the supporting structure when weight is applied to the seat squab (12), and the substantially downward movement of the seat squab (12) causing automatic movement of the backrest (14) in a substantially upward direction, the angular orientation of an upper surface of the seat squab (12) relative to the supporting structure remaining unchanged during the substantially downward movement of the seat squab.