Enhanced Single Control Console Mounted Armrest
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An improved adjustable armrest system that enhances pilot comfort, ergonomics, and workflow efficiency in aircraft cockpits.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent's single control console mounted armrest, while providing adjustability, still had limitations in terms of ergonomic customization, pilot workflow integration, and maintenance. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing advanced features such as motorized post adjustment, dynamic arm pad inflation, and cockpit control system integration.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced armrest system comprises a motorized post adjustment mechanism, sensors to detect pilot arm length, and a controller to adjust the post based on the detected arm length. Additionally, the system features a dynamic arm pad with inflatable bladders that adjust to a pilot's arm shape and size, providing optimal support and comfort. The armrest can be integrated with the cockpit control system, receiving pilot preference data to streamline workflow. Furthermore, the modular armrest assembly allows for easy replacement of interchangeable arm pad modules, reducing maintenance time and increasing customization options.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a motorized post adjustment mechanism, dynamic arm pad inflation, cockpit control system integration, and modular armrest assembly, which are not present in the original patent. These features provide a significant improvement in pilot comfort, ergonomics, and workflow efficiency, and are not obvious from the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different types of sensors, such as pressure sensors or cameras, to detect pilot arm length. Additionally, the dynamic arm pad could be implemented using alternative materials or mechanisms, such as shape-memory alloys or hydraulic systems. The modular armrest assembly could also be designed with different types of quick-release mechanisms or arm pad modules.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced single control console mounted armrest has significant commercial potential in the aerospace industry, particularly in commercial and business aircraft, where pilot comfort and workflow efficiency are critical. The inventive concept could also be applied to other industries, such as automotive or gaming, where ergonomic customization and workflow integration are valued.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Aircraft cockpit ergonomics and human-machine interface design, focusing on adjustable control interfaces and seating systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An aerospace engineer with expertise in human factors engineering, mechanical design of adjustable interfaces, and experience with aircraft cockpit ergonomic solutions
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable extensions of the source patent's core adjustable armrest concept, applying known ergonomic design principles and contemporary sensor and control technologies to enhance the original mechanical adjustment mechanism. The motorized and sensor-based adjustments are logical progressions of the original patent's goal of improving pilot comfort and control interface positioning. The modular and adaptive design elements represent standard engineering approaches to solving ergonomic challenges in aerospace human-machine interfaces.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,085 |
|---|---|
| Title | Single control console mounted armrest |
| Assignee(s) | AMI Industries, Inc. |