Seating device having a support member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stool seats fail due to repeated use and weight, particularly at the neck, which is vulnerable to failure from rotational or twisting movements.
Innovation Solution
A seating device with a seat supported by a lower support member and a vertically extending post support mount, featuring a brace structure that secures the seat post, preventing rotational movement through non-circular cylindrical surfaces and using fasteners for secure attachment, providing additional strength with radial ribs and a collar for enhanced durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single seat post with a neck is used to support the stool seat, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the neck is vulnerable to failure from repeated use, weight, and rotational or twisting movements
Solution Approach 1:
The seat post assembly is divided into multiple components: a base portion, a post portion, and a neck portion. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and strengthens the overall structure by distributing stresses across multiple joints and connection points rather than concentrating them in a single neck area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nested structures where the seat is nested on the neck, the neck is nested on the post portion, and the post portion is nested on the base portion. This nesting arrangement creates multiple interfacing surfaces and connection points that enhance structural integrity and prevent failure at any single location.
2Ease of operation
If the neck is designed to allow rotational movement for ease of operation, then the seat can be adjusted and repositioned, but the neck becomes more susceptible to failure from aggressive rotation or twisting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic structure where the seat can be adjusted to different positions and orientations. The multiple connection points and nested portions allow controlled movement while maintaining strength, enabling the structure to adapt to operational needs without compromising structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the seat post assembly have different structural properties optimized for their specific functions. The base portion provides stable support, the post portion allows vertical adjustment, and the neck portion enables rotational adjustment, with each portion designed with appropriate wall thicknesses and geometries for its specific mechanical demands.
3Ease of manufacture
If a bolt passing transversely through the neck and seat post is used to secure them, then the assembly is simple to manufacture, but this single fastening point creates a potential failure point under repeated stress and abuse
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into multiple fastening points distributed across different portions of the assembly. Instead of relying on a single transverse bolt through the neck, the patent uses multiple fasteners at various locations including the base portion, post portion, and neck portion, creating redundant connection paths that prevent single-point failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple fastening methods and connection types into a unified assembly system. Different portions use different fastening approaches (such as threaded fasteners, interference fits, or welded connections) that work together to create a robust overall connection system that is more reliable than any single fastening method alone.
Data Source
AI summary
A stool having a seat, a lower support member or support, and a post is described. The lower support member contacts the seat adjacent all or a portion of the periphery of the seat for providing support for the seat and a person seated on the seat. The lower support member may cover the bottom of the seat. The stool has both a post support mount or neck and a brace structure or collar for attaching the seat and lower support member to the post. The seat and lower support may be made of plastic. The stool may be part of a folding table having a tabletop and a frame supporting the tabletop and attached to the stool.