Swivel Backrest and Adjustable Headrest for Passenger Privacy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional passenger seat assemblies in vehicles such as aircraft offer limited privacy to passengers.
Innovation Solution
A seat back assembly with a backrest and headrest that are movable between stowed and deployed positions, providing adjustable privacy and comfort through independent movement of the headrest and backrest, which can also include a pivotable privacy panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional passenger seat assemblies are used, then the structure is simple, but passenger privacy is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The seat back assembly is divided into separate functional segments: a fixed seat back portion and a movable backrest assembly that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the backrest to be adjusted to different angles and positions to provide privacy screening without requiring complete restructuring of the entire seat assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The backrest assembly is designed with dynamic movement capabilities, allowing it to pivot between multiple positions (upright, reclined, and lateral extensions) relative to the seat back. This dynamic positioning enables the backrest to adapt to different passenger needs for privacy and comfort during various phases of travel.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the backrest and headrest are fixed, then the structure is stable, but passenger comfort and privacy are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The headrest is separated from the backrest as an independent component with its own adjustment mechanism. This allows the headrest to be moved vertically and positioned independently while the backrest maintains its pivotable functionality, providing granular control over comfort and privacy settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The backrest assembly serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables privacy screening through lateral extension, offers reclining capability, and supports the independently adjustable headrest. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the backrest is extended laterally for privacy, then passenger privacy is improved, but the space in the forward-aft direction is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest assembly can dynamically change its orientation from a forward-aft configuration to a lateral configuration. When privacy is needed, the backrest pivots to extend laterally along the sides of the seat, effectively screening the passenger from adjacent seats while minimizing encroachment into the forward-aft space required for seat movement and egress.
Data Source
AI summary
A seat back assembly for a passenger seat, such as but not limited to an aircraft passenger seat, includes a seat back and a backrest assembly. The backrest assembly includes a backrest and a headrest. The backrest is movable relative to the seat back between a stowed position and a deployed position. The headrest is supported on the backrest and is movable relative to the backrest between a stowed position and a deployed position.