Studio Couch Power Headrest with Linkage-Based Obstruction Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Couches with backrests but no arms lack the option for adjustable armrests or headrests, which are desired for comfort, and existing solutions do not effectively address the issue of obstruction during movement.
Innovation Solution
A studio couch with power-driven headrests or armrests that can be raised and lowered using a power actuator, featuring a linkage system with pivotally interconnected links and a motor unit, which automatically stops when encountering an obstruction and relies on gravity or a spring to return to a horizontal position for storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a power actuator is used to raise and lower the headrest or armrest, then the comfort and adjustability of the seating unit is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest or armrest is nested within the couch structure when in the lowered position, with the power actuator integrated into the existing frame. The linkage system is nested within the cushion assembly, allowing the mechanism to be compact while providing full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The power actuator system serves multiple functions: it raises and lowers the headrest/armrest, provides obstruction detection through the linkage mechanism, and enables storage within the couch structure. The linkage system simultaneously provides mechanical advantage and safety detection.
2Reliability
If the headrest or armrest is designed to automatically stop when encountering an obstruction, then the user safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage system automatically detects obstructions through its own mechanical structure. When an obstruction is encountered during downward movement, the linkage naturally disengages or binds, causing the power actuator to stop without requiring separate sensors or control systems. The mechanism serves its own safety detection function.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage system acts as an intermediary between the power actuator and the headrest/armrest. It translates the actuator's linear motion into the rotational movement of the cushion, and simultaneously serves as the obstruction detection mechanism through its mechanical disengagement characteristics.
3Shape
If the headrest or armrest is stored within the couch or ottoman, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest or armrest is nested within the couch or ottoman structure when not in use. The cushion and its linkage system are designed to fit within the available space, with the power actuator integrated into the frame. This nesting provides a clean aesthetic appearance while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage mechanism is dynamic rather than static. The headrest/armrest can be easily deployed from the stored position using the power actuator, and the linkage system provides smooth transition between stored and functional positions. The mechanism adapts between compact storage and full deployment states.
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
Provides a comfortable and adjustable seating experience with automatic obstruction detection and safe storage of the headrest or armrest, ensuring smooth operation and user safety.
Implementation Method 1
A power actuating unit is configured to reciprocally move the cushion from the closed position to the open position
Implementation Method 2
either gravity or a spring will close the unit
Implementation Method 3
either gravity or a spring will close the unit
Data Source
AI summary
The studio couch of the subject invention is a seating unit having an end unit with a cushion which may be raised and lowered from a closed position to an open position.