Slide-In Coil Attachment for Pre-Tensioned Seating Diaphragms
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for attaching and removing fabric diaphragms from seating frames, especially those under high tension, are complex and time-consuming, often leading to dimensional inconsistencies and increased costs due to the need for specialized tools and equipment, particularly in field installations where the frame cannot be disassembled.
Innovation Solution
A novel attachment system using a coil member and adapter strip that complements the weave of the fabric, allowing for easy installation and removal of pre-tensioned diaphragms by sliding them into position without compromising tension, utilizing a coil member with a series of loops that can be threaded through perforations or woven into the fabric, and a retainer sheet to maintain tension during installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a welt cord method is used to attach a highly tensioned diaphragm, then the diaphragm can be held under high pre-tension, but the installation becomes difficult and prone to dimensional inconsistencies that affect tension balance
Solution Approach 1:
A channel member is introduced as an intermediary component between the diaphragm and the seating frame. The channel member receives the edge of the diaphragm and holds it in position, allowing the diaphragm to be installed without direct manipulation that could cause warping or twisting. This mediator enables high pre-tension to be maintained while simplifying the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is segmented into distinct components: the diaphragm, the channel member, and the seating frame. The channel member is a separate component that can be installed independently, providing a structured pathway for the diaphragm edge. This segmentation allows for easier installation and maintenance while preserving the high tension requirements.
2Force
If special attachments and tools are used for installation and removal, then the diaphragm can be properly installed under high tension, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The channel member serves as a permanent intermediary structure that eliminates the need for special attachment tools during installation and removal. The diaphragm edge simply needs to be fed into the channel, which holds it in position. This approach maintains the required tension while dramatically reducing assembly time and eliminating the need for specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel member is pre-installed on the seating frame before the diaphragm is attached. This preliminary action creates a ready-made pathway that guides the diaphragm edge into position, eliminating the need for complex installation procedures and special tools during the actual diaphragm attachment process.
3Ease of operation
If the seating frame is disassembled or modified to aid in diaphragm removal, then the diaphragm can be easily removed, but the frame structure is compromised and cannot remain fixed
Solution Approach 1:
The channel member acts as a removable intermediary that facilitates diaphragm removal without requiring disassembly of the seating frame. The channel member can be accessed and manipulated to release the diaphragm edge, allowing easy removal while preserving the integrity and fixed structure of the seating frame.
4Productivity
If the diaphragm is fed through a channel by pulling on the welt cord, then the diaphragm can be installed, but the diaphragm becomes warped and twisted which throws off tension and balance
Solution Approach 1:
The channel member provides a structured intermediary pathway that guides the diaphragm edge through the installation process. Instead of pulling directly on the welt cord which causes warping, the diaphragm edge is fed into the channel in a controlled manner. This maintains dimensional consistency and proper tension distribution while still enabling efficient installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of upholstering a seat having a seating frame, and a corresponding attachment assembly, comprises providing a diaphragm generally having a weave of warp and weft yarns with an attachment member for installation of the diaphragm to the seat. The attachment member comprises an adapter strip and a coil member. The coil member is adapted to be intertwined with the weave of the diaphragm and thereafter inserted into and held by the channel in the seating frame. The adapter strip may be connected to the coil member to facilitate feeding the assembly through the channel in the seating frame. Alternately, the adapter strip can replace the channel in the seating frame and instead provide a mounting structure to which the diaphragm can be attached through the coil member's engagement with the adapter strip. A retainer sheet may also be used to maintain a desired tension of the diaphragm during installation.