Attachment structure for suspension seating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Suspension seating structures face challenges in properly sizing and assembling carrier members to achieve desired tension and load-carrying capability over openings with non-linear frame perimeters, making it difficult to sustain large tension loads and maintain effective load distribution.
Innovation Solution
A seating structure design featuring a frame with specific attachment features and a carrier system that engages these features to securely attach a suspension material over an opening, including configurations with ribs and lips to enhance load distribution and tension management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the suspension material is trapped or captured by the frame, then the assembly is simplified, but the load-carrying capability and tension management are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A carrier member is introduced as an intermediary component between the frame and suspension material. The carrier includes engagement features that attach to the frame and support features that hold the suspension material, enabling proper tension distribution and load management while maintaining assembly simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into distinct functional components: the frame provides structural support, the carrier member provides engagement and support functions, and the suspension material provides seating functionality. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as a unified system
2Adaptability or versatility
If the frame has a non-linear perimeter, then the design flexibility is improved, but the carrier sizing and assembly become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier member includes flexible or adjustable engagement features that can adapt to non-linear frame perimeters. The engagement features may include elastic elements or adjustable mechanisms that allow the carrier to conform to varying frame geometries while maintaining secure attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier member is designed with universal engagement capabilities that work with various frame configurations including non-linear perimeters. The engagement features can accommodate different geometries, making the carrier applicable to multiple frame designs without requiring custom-sized carriers for each configuration
3Device complexity
If the suspension material is directly attached to the frame, then the device complexity is reduced, but the load distribution and tension management are inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier member serves as a mediator that provides dedicated support features for the suspension material. These support features include ribs, lips, or other structural elements that distribute loads evenly and manage tension effectively, achieving precise load distribution without requiring complex direct attachment mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A seating structure includes a frame, a carrier, and a suspension material. The frame includes first and second side frame members and first and second cross frame members forming a closed loop and defining an opening therebetween. The frame also includes a plurality of first attachment features on an outer perimeter of the frame. The carrier includes first and second side carrier members and first and second cross carrier members that form a closed loop. The carrier also includes a plurality of second attachment features on an inner perimeter of the carrier. The plurality of second attachment features engages the plurality of first attachment features to attach the carrier to the frame. The suspension material is attached to the carrier and extends over the opening in the frame to define a continuous seat and backrest.