Vehicle Armrest Support With Multi-Axis Rolling Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing armrest systems for pilots in air and/or space vehicles lack a practical and efficient mechanism for precise and adaptable position adjustment, leading to potential health issues from long-term use and suboptimal control precision.
Innovation Solution
A support system with a rolling element and ball joint mechanism that allows linear and rotational movement of the armrest, enabling it to adjust in multiple axes and lock into desired positions, accommodating different user sizes and providing comprehensive support for all arm movements without interrupting contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanism is added to enable multi-axis position adjustment of the armrest, then the adaptability to different user sizes and seat adjustments is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest is designed with dynamic adjustment capabilities through a roller mechanism that allows continuous movement in multiple directions (up-down, right-left, front-back). The roller can rotate freely within the actuator cavity, enabling the armrest to adapt dynamically to different positions and angles based on user needs, rather than being fixed at predetermined positions only.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into independent components: the actuator body, the roller element, and the armrest cushion. This segmentation allows each component to move independently in different directions, providing comprehensive multi-axis adjustment while keeping individual components simple and manageable.
2Ease of operation
If the armrest is made fully movable to accommodate all arm movements, then the ease of operation is improved, but the stability of positioning is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest provides dynamic support that moves with the user's arm through the roller mechanism. As the user moves their arm, the roller rotates and the armrest adjusts its position accordingly, maintaining continuous contact and support throughout the range of motion, thereby improving comfort during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The armrest system is self-adjusting through the roller mechanism that automatically responds to arm movements. The roller rotates in response to applied force from the user's arm, allowing the armrest to self-adjust to the desired position without requiring separate control mechanisms, thus maintaining both ease of operation and positioning stability.
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
Enhances user comfort and control precision by allowing customizable armrest positioning, reducing fatigue and improving control efficiency during vehicle operation.
Implementation Method 1
A ball joint provides rotation of the rolling element when it is placed in the cavity on the actuator
Implementation Method 2
Movement of the rolling element in the cavity provides the movement of the rest, which is connected to the rolling element to face the actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A support system for a body (2) located on a vehicle (V) which provides arm support to a user. At least one control (3) is triggered by the user to enable the vehicle (V) to maneuver and/or to control the equipment located on the vehicle (V). A rest (4) is located on the body (2) and provides arm support to the user while using the control (3). A position of the rest (4) can be adjusted by the user. At least one actuator (5) is located on the body (2) in connection with the rest (4), and allows the position of the rest (4) to be changed.