Single-Control Armrest Kinematics for Simple Position Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing armrest designs for automobiles are overly complex, requiring multiple difficult-to-understand actuations for users to achieve desired movements, overwhelming customers.
Innovation Solution
A simplified kinematic system for an armrest with a single operating element that allows both pivoting and displacement of the support element relative to the carrier element, using a guide rod and braking elements connected through a connecting element, enabling easy release and locking of movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuating elements and complex operating mechanisms are used to enable pivoting and displacement of the armrest, then the adjustment functionality and versatility are improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuating functions into a single operating element. The support element serves both as the structure to be adjusted and as the operating element itself, integrating the functions of actuation, pivoting, and displacement control into one unified component rather than requiring separate actuators and mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The support element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, acts as the operating element for adjustment, enables pivoting about the first axis of rotation, and facilitates displacement relative to the carrier element. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated components for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuating elements and complex operating mechanisms are used to enable pivoting and displacement of the armrest, then the adjustment functionality is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the support element and operating element into a single component, allowing users to perform both pivoting and displacement adjustments through one intuitive operating motion rather than requiring coordination of multiple separate actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The support element is designed to be self-operating, where the user directly manipulates the support element itself to achieve adjustment. This eliminates the need for separate control mechanisms and makes the operation more intuitive and easier to understand.
3Reliability
If separate locking mechanisms are used for pivoting and displacement, then the reliability of position locking is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking functions for both pivoting and displacement into a single integrated locking mechanism associated with the support element. This unified approach maintains reliable position locking for both degrees of freedom while avoiding the complexity of separate locking systems.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an arm rest, particularly for a center console of a motor vehicle, comprising a carrier element (1) having a support element (11) moveably arranged on the carrier element (1), wherein the carrier element (1) and the support element (11) can be pivoted about a first pivoting axis (y) by means (3, 5, 7A, 7B or 3, 7A, 8) arranged in or on the carrier element (1). The support element (11) can be displaced with respect to the carrier element (1) by a connection to one of the arranged means (3, 5, 7A, 7B or 3, 7A, 8). According to the invention, pivoting of the carrier element (1) together with the support element (11) and displacing the support element (11) with respect to the carrier element (1) can be released or blocked by actuating a single control element (6) that acts upon the arranged means (3, 5, 7A, 7B or 3, 7A, 8).