S5 suspension seat module

Shockwave Seats, 2015

A design was requested for a new, low-cost suspension seat base for use by recreational boaters. The design goals were to maximize performance while minimizing size, to maintain a flat top surface, and to utilize a bicycle spring and damper.

Actions:

I created several initial designs and analyzed the geometry of each to derive equations of motion. These equations were plotted in Excel to observe the motion ratio of the seat and spring/damper for the range of seat travel. I chose the design with the most favourable motion ratio, and optimized its geometry by using an optimizing evolutionary algorithm in Excel to maximize motion ratio consistency and minimize overall size, within a given set of geometric constraints.

Results:

As I was at the end of my work term, this project was handed off to another engineer for completion. The S5 suspension seat module is now in mass production and is a popular product for Shockwave seats, with glowing reviews from users.

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