Configurable ergonomic pad

Abstract

The present invention relates to a configurable ergonomic cushion. The ergonomic cushion includes an air bladder formed of a soft material and a granular material disposed within the air bladder and at least partially filling the air bladder. A port is coupled to the air bladder and configured to vent air from the air bladder. The air bladder also includes a sealable opening, distinct from the port, for adding or removing the granular material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to ergonomic mats. Background Art

[0002] Manufacturing workers sometimes use support mats to reduce or prevent injuries and limit or avoid damage to surfaces in their work area. For example, support mats can be used to enable workers to position themselves in a more ideal position to perform a specific task, thereby preventing ergonomic injuries. As another example, support mats can be used to cover sharp edges or other hazards in the work area.

[0003] Because of the wide variety of uses for such support cushions and the varying body types of users of such support cushions, many different or custom-made support cushions may be maintained. Acquiring and maintaining such a wide variety of support cushions is expensive. In addition, the support cushions take up a large amount of storage space.

[0004] Furthermore, when a large selection of custom support cushions is maintained and a user performs multiple different tasks at a workspace, the user may need to carry several different support cushions to the workspace or compromise by using an available support cushion that is less suitable for a particular task or user. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An ergonomic mat (and related systems and methods) is disclosed that can be customized for a specific user and work area, thereby reducing the need to acquire and maintain a large selection of support mats.

[0006] According to one particular aspect, an ergonomic cushion includes an air bladder formed of a pliable material and a granular material disposed within and at least partially filling the air bladder. A port is coupled to the air bladder and configured to vent air from the air bladder. The air bladder also includes a sealable opening, distinct from the port, for adding or removing the granular material.

[0007] According to another specific aspect, an ergonomic pad system includes a first ergonomic pad and a second ergonomic pad. The first ergonomic pad includes a first airbag and a first amount of filler material disposed within the first airbag. The filler material has a void fraction greater than 0.35. A first port is coupled to the first airbag and configured to discharge air from the first airbag. The first ergonomic pad also includes a first connector coupled to the first port. The second ergonomic pad includes a second airbag and a second amount of filler material disposed within the second airbag. The second port is coupled to the second airbag and configured to discharge air from the second airbag. The second ergonomic pad also includes a second connector coupled to the second port. The second connector is configured to couple to the first connector to link the first and second airbags.

[0008] According to another particular aspect, a method includes positioning an air bladder of an ergonomic mat relative to a surface in a work area. The air bladder is positioned relative to the surface such that a material placed in the air bladder settles to conform to the surface. The method also includes activating a vacuum source in fluid communication with a port of the ergonomic mat to exhaust air from the air bladder to cause the air bladder to conform to the material such that a side of the ergonomic mat assumes a shape complementary to the surface.

[0009] The features, functions, and advantages described herein can be achieved independently in various embodiments or may be combined in yet other embodiments further details of which can be found with reference to the following description and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an ergonomic mat system including a plurality of ergonomic mats according to one embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 Shown is the use of a Figure 1 Ergonomic pad system.

[0012] Figure 3 Shown is the use of a Figure 1 Another example of an ergonomic mat system.

[0013] Figure 4A Shown in a consistent state according to one embodiment Figure 1 Ergonomic pad system.

[0014] Figure 4B Shown in a rigid state according to one embodiment Figure 1 Ergonomic pad system.

[0015] Figure 5 It shows that according to one embodiment Figure 1 Illustration of the details of the ergonomic pad system.

[0016] Figure 6 It shows that according to one embodiment Figure 1 Illustration of the details of the ergonomic pad system.

[0017] Figure 7 It shows that according to one embodiment Figure 1 Illustration of additional details of the ergonomic mat system.

[0018] Figure 8 is a diagram showing the use of a Figure 1 A flow chart of a method of an ergonomic mat system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The accompanying drawings and the following description illustrate specific exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that those skilled in the art will be able to design various arrangements that, although not explicitly described or illustrated herein, embody the principles described herein and are within the scope of the claims that follow this description. In addition, any examples described herein are intended to aid understanding of the principles of the present disclosure and should not be construed as limiting. Consequently, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments or examples described below, but is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

[0020] The detailed description is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description, common features are indicated by common reference numerals in all figures. In some figures, multiple instances of a particular type of feature are used. Although the features are physically and / or logically different, each feature uses the same reference numeral, and different instances are distinguished by adding letters to the reference numerals. When features are referred to herein as a group or type (for example, when no reference is made to a particular feature among multiple features), the reference numeral is used without a distinguishing letter. However, when a particular feature among multiple features of the same type is referred to herein, the reference numeral is used with a distinguishing letter. For example, with reference to Figure 1 , multiple ergonomic pads are shown and are associated with reference numerals 102A and 102B. When referring to a specific one of these ergonomic pads, such as the first ergonomic pad 102A, a distinguishing letter "A" is used. However, when referring to any one of these ergonomic pads or the ergonomic pads as a group, reference numeral 102 is used without a distinguishing letter.

[0021] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the terms used herein shall have their customary and customary meanings in the relevant art. The following are examples of definitions of some of the terms used herein.

[0022] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well. In addition, some features described herein are in some embodiments singular and in other embodiments plural. For ease of reference herein, such features may be introduced as "one or more" features and may subsequently be referred to in the singular unless an aspect relating to multiple features is being described.

[0023] The term "comprising" is used interchangeably with "including". In addition, the term "wherein" is used interchangeably with the term "in..." As used herein, "exemplary" indicates an example, embodiment and / or aspect, and should not be interpreted as limiting or indicating a preference or preferred embodiment. As used herein, ordinal terms (e.g., "first," "second," "third," etc.) used to modify elements such as structures, components, operations, etc. do not themselves indicate any priority or order of an element relative to another element, but merely distinguish an element from another element with the same name (but for ordinal numbers). As used herein, the term "set" refers to a grouping of one or more elements, and the term "plurality" refers to a plurality of elements.

[0024] As used herein, “coupling” may include “communicatively coupled,” “electrically coupled,” or “physically coupled,” and may also (or alternatively) include any combination thereof. Two devices (or components) may be directly or indirectly coupled (e.g., communicatively coupled, electrically coupled, or physically coupled) through one or more other devices, components, wires, buses, networks (e.g., wired networks, wireless networks, or combinations thereof), and the like. Two electrically coupled devices (or components) may be contained in the same device or different devices, and may be connected by electronic devices, one or more connectors, or inductive coupling as illustrative but non-limiting examples. In certain embodiments, two communicatively coupled devices (or components) (e.g., in an electrically communicative manner) may send and receive electrical signals (digital or analog) directly or indirectly (e.g., through one or more wires, buses, networks, etc.). As used herein, “directly coupled” is used to describe two devices that are coupled (e.g., communicatively coupled, electrically coupled, or physically coupled) without intervening components.

[0025] The term "fill material" refers to a group of individual objects that interact with each other (e.g., are packed together) in a manner that allows fluid-like movement when loosely packed and solid-like behavior when tightly packed. As used herein, "fluid-like" and "solid-like" refer to the overall properties of the fill material, not to the properties of individual particles of the fill material.

[0026] Ergonomic mats according to the present disclosure are filled with a material (e.g., a filler material) that is capable of reconfiguring the shape of the ergonomic mat in certain circumstances and maintaining its shape in other circumstances. For illustration, a user can expel air from the ergonomic mat to customize the shape of the ergonomic mat for a specific user and use case. In some embodiments, the amount of material in the ergonomic mat can also be adjusted prior to use. For example, a user working in a more confined work area can use an ergonomic mat with a relatively small amount of material compared to a user working in a wider, open, or less confined work area.

[0027] In addition to providing significant customization, ergonomic mats can also use less storage space. For example, the ergonomic mat can be broken down into components that are easily stored. To illustrate, the ergonomic mat may include an air bladder that is at least partially filled with a material to be used. When not in use, the air bladder and the material can be stored separately. Typically, the material is a filler material that can be compacted for storage. However, even if a non-compactable material is used, storing the air bladder and material separately will take up less storage space than storing a comparable number of custom support cushions, including support cushions of various sizes and shapes, which can take up a lot of storage space.

[0028] Additionally, a single ergonomic mat can be used in a variety of work environments because the ergonomic mat can be molded to a variety of different work surfaces over a large number of work areas.

[0029] To illustrate, a user can place the ergonomic mat in the location where it will be used. The user positions themselves in a desired work position on the ergonomic mat and causes air to be exhausted from the ergonomic mat. Removing air from the ergonomic mat causes the ergonomic mat to conform to the shape of nearby surfaces, such as the contours of the work area, the contours of the user's body (e.g., body shape, size, or the shape and size of a particular body part), or both. The ergonomic mat is configured to maintain its shape until the user reintroduces air into the ergonomic mat, at which point the ergonomic mat is pliable or conformable and ready for reuse in another work area or by another user.

[0030] When air is removed from the ergonomic mat, the mat becomes relatively stiff, and the more air is removed, the stiffer it becomes. When the ergonomic mat is relatively stiff, it maintains the shape to which it conforms (e.g., the shape of the underlying surface, the shape of the surrounding surface, the shape of a user's body part, etc.). The user can adjust the stiffness of the ergonomic mat for a specific use case. To illustrate, the user can remove more air (making the ergonomic mat stiffer) to cover bumps in the work area surface, thereby smoothing the work area, etc. However, in another scenario, the user can make the ergonomic mat less stiff to provide the user with more comfortable (e.g., softer) support. When air is reintroduced into the ergonomic mat, the ergonomic mat becomes reconfigurable again. For example, the ergonomic mat no longer maintains the shape of the adjacent surface.

[0031] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an ergonomic mat system 100 including a plurality of ergonomic mats 102 according to one embodiment. Figure 1In the embodiment of the present invention, the ergonomic mat system 100 includes a first ergonomic mat 102A and a second ergonomic mat 102B. Each ergonomic mat 102 includes an air bladder 110, a filler material 114 disposed within the air bladder 110, and one or more ports, such as port 116, which enable air 124 to be exhausted from the air bladder 110. The air bladder 110 is formed of or includes a pliable material to enable the air bladder 110 to assume a variety of shapes, such as a shape that complements the surface on which the ergonomic mat 102 is placed.

[0032] Filling material 114 at least partially fills the interior of airbag 110. Examples of filling materials include granular materials, such as solid polymer pellets, hollow polymer pellets, or foam pellets. Other filling materials may be used in different embodiments. For example, if filling material 114 is not expected to be reused multiple times (e.g., if filling material 114 may be damaged or soiled due to the working environment), a company or user may use renewable filling material 114 (e.g., chopped straw). Filling material 114 should have spaces between its particles to enable it to move and change shape, and to maintain its shape when air 124 is expelled from airbag 110. By way of example, in some embodiments, filling material 114 has a void ratio greater than 0.35.

[0033] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated example, the bladder 110 includes a sealable opening 112 (different from the port 116) that allows a user to add more fill material 114 to the bladder 110 or remove some or all of the fill material 114 from the bladder 110. In this example, the sealable opening 112 further increases the flexibility and customizability of the ergonomic mat 102. For example, a smaller user can add fill material 114 to the ergonomic mat 102 to achieve a more comfortable working position. As another example, a user working in a relatively confined area can remove some fill material 114 from the ergonomic mat 102 to make it easier to position the ergonomic mat 102 in the work area. Additionally, much or all of the fill material 114 can be removed from the ergonomic mat 102 for easier storage.

[0034] When the sealable opening 112 and the port 116 are closed, the airbag 110 is substantially airtight. As used herein, "airtight" means that air enters or exits the airbag 110 at a negligible rate, given the typical timescale of use of the ergonomic pad 102. For example, the ergonomic pad 102 is intended to be used by workers, and such workers typically work shifts of eight hours or less and take breaks between shifts. As a result, in this example, the ergonomic pad 102 should be sufficiently airtight to maintain its shape for a period of time between breaks, such as approximately two hours. It should be understood that other criteria for whether the ergonomic pad 102 is sufficiently airtight may be used in different circumstances. Furthermore, it should be understood that the ergonomic pad 102 may become less airtight over time due to wear of the seals, damage to the airbag 110, etc.

[0035] Port 116 extends through bladder 110 and includes a valve that restricts airflow when in a closed position and allows airflow when in an open position. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, the valve is a pressure-actuated valve 120, such as a diaphragm valve. In this example, the valve is configured to automatically open in response to a large pressure differential, wherein the pressure inside the bladder 110 is greater than the pressure outside the port 116. To illustrate, when the vacuum source 106 is coupled to the port 116 and activated, the vacuum source 106 reduces the pressure outside the valve, which can cause the valve to open and allow a portion of air 124 to pass through the port 116. When the pressure differential causes the pressure inside the bladder 110 to be less than the pressure outside the port 116, the valve seals. For example, after the portion of the air 124 has been removed by the vacuum source 106, the pressure inside the bladder 110 can be less than the ambient air pressure. In this example, the pressure differential seals the valve to maintain the pressure differential, which in turn holds the ergonomic cushion 102 in a specific shape. After air 124 is evacuated from bladder 110 and port 116 is disconnected from vacuum source 106 or deactivated, the valve enables bladder 110 to conform to a shape at least partially defined by filler material 114. Thus, vacuum source 106 is not continuously required during use of ergonomic cushion 102. In some embodiments, the valve is manually openable to equalize the pressure level in bladder 110 to the ambient pressure level. For example, the valve can include a button, switch, or knob that can be manually actuated to open the valve.

[0036] The port 116 is configured to be removably coupled to the vacuum source 106. For example, the port 116 may include or be coupled to a connector 118 that is configured to be coupled to the vacuum source 106, to another ergonomic pad 102, or both, as further described below. In some embodiments, a flexible hose 122 is coupled to the port 116, and the connector 118 is coupled to the hose 122. For example, in Figure 1In one embodiment, the ergonomic cushion 102 includes a cover 130 positioned above the air bladder 110. In this embodiment, the hose 122 can be stored within the cover 130 (e.g., within a bag or flap 136) to protect the hose 122 when not in use. When air 124 is to be added to or removed from the air bladder 110, the hose 122 can be extended through the cover 130. In some embodiments, the hose 122 also enables a user to access the port 116 (e.g., to add or remove air 124) regardless of the position and orientation of the ergonomic cushion 102. For example, even if the ergonomic cushion 102 is positioned such that the port 116 is below the air bladder 110 (e.g., not directly accessible to the user), the hose 122 can be extended to enable the user to remove air 124 from the air bladder 110.

[0037] exist Figure 1 , the cover 130 includes a plurality of contiguous layers 132, such as a first layer and a second layer, that are contiguous or proximate to each other to define an outer surface 134 of the ergonomic pad 102. For example, the first layer 132 of contiguous layers may form the outer surface 134 on a first side of the ergonomic pad 102, and the second layer of contiguous layers 132 may form the outer surface 134 on a second side (e.g., an opposite side) of the ergonomic pad 102. As shown, when the first layer is on top of the airbag 110, the second layer may be disposed below the airbag 110.

[0038] In some embodiments, the adjacent layers 132 are formed from different materials or have different structures. To illustrate, in some embodiments, the first layer has a first surface texture (e.g., a smoother texture), while the second layer has a second surface texture (e.g., a rougher texture). In such embodiments, the second surface may be more durable or have a higher coefficient of friction and, therefore, may be positioned to contact a work surface to reduce slipping and damage to the ergonomic mat 102. Conversely, the first surface may be more comfortable and, therefore, may be positioned to contact a user. In some embodiments, the first layer has a first surface tackiness and the second layer has a second surface tackiness, wherein the first surface tackiness is greater than the second surface tackiness. In such embodiments, the second surface may reduce slipping and, therefore, may be positioned to contact a work surface, whereas the first surface may be more comfortable and, therefore, may be positioned to contact a user.

[0039] exist Figure 1In one embodiment, one or more adjacent layers 132 include one or more fasteners 138. The fasteners 138 include, for example, hook-and-loop fasteners, hook-and-eye fasteners, snaps, buckles, straps, or other types of fasteners configured to fasten one ergonomic mat 102 to another ergonomic mat 102 or to enable the ergonomic mat 102 to be fastened to a work surface. In certain embodiments, the fasteners 138 are comprised of any number of fasteners, such as one to twenty fasteners, one to eight fasteners, or two to four fasteners.

[0040] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present invention, airbag 110 is at least partially surrounded by a cover 130. In some embodiments, cover 130 is removable. For example, cover 130 can be formed from a washable material (e.g., one or more durable fabrics or polymers) and can be removed from airbag 110 for cleaning. In some embodiments, airbag 110 is used without cover 130 (e.g., cover 130 is omitted). For example, airbag 110 can include an abutting layer 132, fasteners 138, pockets or flaps 136, or any combination thereof.

[0041] In some embodiments, each ergonomic pad 102 is configured to interact with or be used with one or more additional ergonomic pads 102. For example, Figure 1 In the embodiment, the ergonomic mat system 100 includes a first ergonomic mat 102A and a second ergonomic mat 102B, and a vacuum source 106 is coupled to the first ergonomic mat 102A and the second ergonomic mat 102B. In other examples, the ergonomic mat system 100 includes more than two ergonomic mats 102. When used together, the two or more ergonomic mats 102 can be coupled in fluid communication (e.g., the port 116 of one ergonomic mat 102 can be coupled to the port 116 of another ergonomic mat 102) to enable air 124 to be exhausted from the ergonomic mats 102 simultaneously or in parallel. Additionally or alternatively, the two or more ergonomic mats 102 can be physically coupled (or fastened) together. For example, the fastener 138 of one ergonomic mat 102 can be coupled to the fastener 138 of another ergonomic mat 102 to form a physical unit.

[0042] Figure 2 The use of the work area 200 according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 1 The Ergonomic Mat System 100. Figure 2 In FIG, the work area 200 includes a plurality of surfaces and objects that limit the area in which the user 208 can work. For example, in Figure 2In FIG, a work area 200 is bounded by ribs 202A, 202B, stringers 204, and walls 206 (e.g., a skin coupled to ribs 202, stringers 204, or both). In addition to limiting the space in which a user 208 can work, ribs 202A, 202B, stringers 204, and walls 206 also form an uneven surface to support the user 208.

[0043] exist Figure 2 In Figure 2, user 208 has positioned ergonomic mat 102 above stringer 204 between ribs 202A and 202B and adjacent wall 206. Subsequently, user 208 allows filler material 114 within bladder 110 to settle into a shape that is complementary (or substantially complementary) to the surface that contacts and displaces air 124 from ergonomic mat 102. As air 124 is displaced from bladder 110, bladder 110 packs filler material 114 together to restrict movement of filler material 114, allowing ergonomic mat 102 to maintain a shape complementary to the contacted surface until air 124 is reintroduced into bladder 110. Furthermore, the stiffness and / or softness of ergonomic mat 102 can be adjusted based on how much air is displaced.

[0044] The user 208 may then deactivate (eg, disconnect, pause, turn off, terminate, etc.) the vacuum source 106 (eg, Figure 1 202B, stringers 204, or walls 206. In addition to being more comfortable, the use of ergonomic mat 102 in work area 200 reduces the risk of workplace injuries by improving the ergonomic positioning of user 208 while working and reduces the risk of the user slipping or being injured by protrusions from ribs 202A, 202B, stringers 204, or walls 206.

[0045] Figure 3 Another example of using the ergonomic mat system 100 in a work area 200 is shown. Figure 3 In the Figure 2 The user 208 has conformed the ergonomic mat 102 to one or more surfaces of the work area 200 (e.g., to the shape of the stringer 204) and to a body part of the user 208, and air has been exhausted from the ergonomic mat 102 to keep the ergonomic mat 102 in its shape. As a result, when the user 208 leaves the work area 200, the ergonomic mat 102 maintains its shape. For example, Figure 3In the embodiment of the present invention, the user 208 kneels on the ergonomic mat 102 while removing air from the ergonomic mat 102. As a result, the ergonomic mat 102 is shaped to define a depression 210 corresponding to the user's knee and calf. After the ergonomic mat 102 is shaped, the user 208 leaves the work area 200, but the ergonomic mat 102 retains the shape established by the user 208 (including the depression 210 and the shape complementary to the stringer 204).

[0046] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The ergonomic pad 102 is shown in a conformable state and a rigid state, respectively. Figure 4A As shown in the illustration 402 of FIG, in the fitted state, the filling material 114 is loosely packed (e.g., in the ergonomic pad 102, there is a large amount of air mixed with or in addition to the filling material 114). As a result, in the fitted state, the individual particles of the filling material 114 are free to move relative to each other, so that the filling material 114 has volumetric properties similar to a fluid (e.g., it flows and changes shape easily). In contrast, as in Figure 4B As shown in illustration 404 of FIG, in the rigid state, the filler material 114 is densely packed (e.g., in the case of the ergonomic mat 102, a very small amount of air 124 is mixed with or in addition to the filler material 114). As a result, in the rigid state, the individual particles of the filler material 114 are unable to move freely relative to one another, causing the filler material 114 to have volumetric properties similar to a solid (e.g., a tendency to retain its shape).

[0047] Figure 5 It shows that according to one embodiment Figure 1 Illustration of details of a particular ergonomic mat 102. Figure 5 The cover 130 is shown. Figure 5 In FIG, the cover 130 is a removable cover that defines an opening 504 into which the airbag 110 can be inserted. The cover 130 also defines an opening 502 through which the flexible hose 122 can extend to enable air 124 to be exhausted from the airbag 110 when the airbag 110 is surrounded by the cover 130.

[0048] Figure 5 A particular embodiment is also shown in which the port 116 of the ergonomic mat 102 is coupled to two or more connectors 118 via a hose 122. Figure 5 , two connectors 118A and 118B are coupled to a hose 122. This arrangement of the connectors 118 enables multiple ergonomic cushions 102 to be connected together in a daisy-chain manner, so that one vacuum source 106 can be used to exhaust air from multiple ergonomic cushions 102.

[0049] Figure 6 It shows that according to one embodiment Figure 1 1 is an illustration of the details of the ergonomic mat system 100. In particular, Figure 6 An example of coupling two or more ergonomic pads 102A, 102B in fluid communication is shown. Figure 6 In FIG, the first ergonomic pad 102A includes an airbag 110 and a port 116 extending through the airbag 110. Similarly, the second ergonomic pad 102B includes a second airbag 110B and a second port 116B extending through the second airbag 110B. Port 116A is coupled to a first hose 122A, which includes a first connector 118A and a second connector 118B. Port 116B is coupled to a second hose 122B, which includes a third connector 118C and a fourth connector 118D. Figure 6 In FIG. 1 , each connector 118 includes a valve 120 , details of which are shown in the inset.

[0050] The connectors 118 are configured to mate together to establish fluid communication between the plurality of airbags 110. For example, Figure 6 As shown in the illustration of FIG, the connectors 118 can be threaded together by friction fit using a clamp and seal or some other sealable connection (such as a barb). Figure 6 In the embodiment, the second connector 118B has a female thread pattern and the third connector 118C has a corresponding male thread pattern, so that the second connector 118B and the third connector 118C can be interconnected and form a substantially airtight seal.

[0051] Figure 6 The valve 120 shown in FIG is a diaphragm valve that includes a diaphragm 606 that is coupled to a support structure 604 of a connector housing 602. The diaphragm 606 is positioned so that a higher pressure on an outer side 608 of the diaphragm 606 causes the diaphragm 606 to seal. Figure 6 In the embodiment, the valve 120 is arranged to maintain the pressure level within the airbag below the ambient pressure level.

[0052] Figure 7 It shows that according to one embodiment Figure 1 Illustration of additional details of the ergonomic mat system. In particular, Figure 7 Another example of coupling two or more ergonomic pads 102 in fluid communication is shown. Figure 7, first ergonomic mat 102A includes a first port 116A coupled to a first hose 122A and a first connector 118A, and includes a second port 116B coupled to a second hose 122B and a second connector 118B. Similarly, second ergonomic mat 102B includes a third port 116C coupled to a third hose 122C and a third connector 118C, and includes a fourth port 116D coupled to a fourth hose 122D and a fourth connector 118D.

[0053] As in Figure 6 middle, Figure 7 The connectors 118 are configured to mate together to establish fluid communication between the ergonomic pads 102. For example, Figure 7 In the embodiment, the second connector 118B and the third connector 118C form a threaded pair.

[0054] Figure 7 A specific example of a fastener 138 is also shown. Figure 7 , the first ergonomic pad 102A includes a first plurality of hook-and-loop fasteners 138A, and the second ergonomic pad 102B includes a second plurality of hook-and-loop fasteners 138B. In some embodiments, the first plurality of hook-and-loop fasteners 138A are configured to couple to the second plurality of hook-and-loop fasteners 138B. For example, each ergonomic pad 102 may include two hook straps and two loop straps to enable the ergonomic pads 102 to be physically coupled together. Additionally or alternatively, the ergonomic pads 102 may be configured to couple together via another fastener. For example, in Figure 7 , two straps 700 are shown connecting the ergonomic pad 102. In this example, the straps 700 may include hook straps that interact with (e.g., are attached to) the loop straps of the fasteners 138 of the ergonomic pad 102. Alternatively, the straps 700 may include loop straps that interact with (e.g., are attached to) the hook straps of the fasteners 138 of the ergonomic pad 102. In yet another alternative, one of the plurality of straps 700 may be a hook strap and another may be a loop strap, and each strap 700 may interact with a complementary strap of the fasteners 138 of the ergonomic pad 102.

[0055] Figure 8 is a diagram showing the use of a Figure 1 Flowchart of method 800 of an ergonomic mat system. Method 800 includes positioning an airbag of an ergonomic mat relative to a surface in a work area at 802. For example, Figure 2The ergonomic mat 102 is shown positioned in a work area 200. Positioning the bladder 110 relative to a surface in the work area 200 allows material placed in the bladder 110 (eg, filler material 114) to settle into position against the surface.

[0056] The method 800 further includes, at 804, activating a vacuum source in fluid communication with the port of the ergonomic mat to exhaust air from the air bladders so that the air bladders conform to the material so that the sides of the ergonomic mat assume a shape complementary to the surface. For example, after the ergonomic mat 102 is placed in the work area 200, Figure 1 The vacuum source 106 can be activated to expel air 124 from the air bladder 110. Expelling a portion of the air bladder 110 causes the air bladder 110 to at least partially conform to the filling material 114. The pressure applied by the air bladder 110 to the filling material 114 causes the ergonomic cushion 102 to become more rigid and maintain a shape at least partially defined by the filling material 114.

[0057] In some embodiments, method 800 further includes coupling a port of the ergonomic pad to a second port of the second ergonomic pad before activating the vacuum source. In such embodiments, the vacuum source is coupled to a third port of the second ergonomic pad, and in response to activation of the vacuum source, air extracted from the air bladder passes through the second ergonomic pad.

[0058] The description of the examples described herein is intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of various embodiments. These descriptions are not intended to be used as a complete description of all elements and features of the apparatus and system utilizing the structures or methods described herein. Based on a review of the present disclosure, many other embodiments may be apparent to those skilled in the art. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from the present disclosure, thereby allowing structural and logical replacements and changes to be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, method operations may be performed in an order different from that shown in the figures, or one or more method operations may be omitted. Therefore, the present disclosure and the accompanying drawings should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive.

[0059] In addition, although specific examples have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar results may replace the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent modifications or variations of the various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, as well as other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the specification.

[0060] Furthermore, the present disclosure includes embodiments according to the following clauses:

[0061] 1. An ergonomic mat 102, comprising:

[0062] an air bag 110 formed of a compliant material;

[0063] a granular material 114 disposed within the bladder and at least partially filling the bladder; and

[0064] A port 116 is coupled to the bladder, the port being configured to enable exhaust of air 124 from the bladder, wherein the bladder includes a sealable opening 112 distinct from the port for adding or removing granular material.

[0065] 2. The ergonomic mat of clause 1, wherein the port comprises a pressure-actuated valve 120 configured to maintain a pressure level in the air bladder after air is exhausted through the port.

[0066] 3. The ergonomic mat of clause 2, wherein the pressure-actuated valve is manually openable to equalize the pressure level in the airbag to the ambient pressure level.

[0067] 4. The ergonomic mat of any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the port is configured to be removably coupled to a vacuum source 106 to facilitate exhausting air from the air bladder.

[0068] 5. An ergonomic mat according to any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein in response to exhausting air from the air bladder, the air bladder conforms to a shape at least partially defined by the granular material, and wherein the port and the sealable opening are sufficiently airtight to enable the air bladder to maintain the shape after the port is disconnected from the vacuum source.

[0069] 6. An ergonomic pad according to any one of clauses 1 to 5, further comprising an adjacent layer 132 defining an outer surface 134 of the airbag or a cover 130 of the airbag, the adjacent layer comprising a first layer and a second layer, wherein the first layer and the second layer are arranged on opposite sides of the airbag such that when the first layer is above the airbag, the second layer is below the airbag.

[0070] 7. An ergonomic mat according to claim 6, wherein the cover is removable.

[0071] 8. An ergonomic mat according to claim 7, wherein the covering comprises a washable material.

[0072] 9. An ergonomic mat according to claim 6 or 7, wherein at least one of the first layer or the second layer comprises one or more fasteners 138 to fasten more than one ergonomic mat together, the one or more fasteners being selected from hook and loop fasteners, hook and eye fasteners, snaps, buckles or straps.

[0073] 10. The ergonomic mat of clause 9, wherein the one or more fasteners consist of one to eight fasteners.

[0074] 11. The ergonomic mat of clause 9, wherein the one or more fasteners comprise one to eight hook and loop straps.

[0075] 12. An ergonomic mat according to any one of clauses 6 to 11, wherein the first layer has a first surface texture and the second layer has a second surface texture, wherein the first surface texture is smoother than the second surface texture.

[0076] 13. An ergonomic mat according to any one of clauses 6 to 12, wherein the first layer has a first surface tack and the second layer has a second surface tack, wherein the first surface tack is more tacky than the second surface tack.

[0077] 14. The ergonomic mat of any one of clauses 1 to 13, further comprising a removable cover at least partially surrounding the bladder, wherein the port is accessible through the removable cover.

[0078] 15. An ergonomic mat according to any one of clauses 1 to 14, wherein the granular material comprises one or more of: solid polymer pellets, hollow polymer pellets or foam pellets.

[0079] 16. The ergonomic mat of any one of clauses 1 to 15, further comprising a flexible hose 122 coupled to the port, the flexible hose comprising a connector 118 configured to couple the port to a vacuum source regardless of the position and orientation of the airbag.

[0080] 17. The ergonomic mat of clause 16, further comprising a bag or flap 136 configured to hold the flexible hose.

[0081] 18. The ergonomic mat according to clause 16 or 17 further includes a second port 116B coupled to the airbag and a second flexible hose coupled to the second port, wherein the second flexible hose includes a second connector 118B, and the second connector 118B is configured to couple to the second airbag 110B so that a vacuum source coupled to the port can exhaust air from the airbag and the second airbag via the port.

[0082] 19. An ergonomic mat system 100, comprising:

[0083] The first ergonomic pad 102A includes:

[0084] First airbag 110A;

[0085] a first quantity of filler material 114 disposed within the first airbag, the filler material having a void fraction greater than 0.35;

[0086] a first port 116A coupled to the first airbag, the first port being configured to exhaust air from the first airbag; and

[0087] a first connector 118A coupled to the first port; and

[0088] The second ergonomic pad 102B includes:

[0089] a second airbag 110B;

[0090] a second quantity of filler material disposed within the second bladder;

[0091] a second port 116B coupled to the second airbag, the second port being configured to exhaust air from the second airbag; and

[0092] A second connector 118B is coupled to the second port, the second connector being configured to couple to the first connector to link the first airbag and the second airbag.

[0093] 20. The ergonomic mat system of clause 19, further comprising a hose 122 configured to be coupled to the first port and the second port so as to enable air to be exhausted from the second air bag and the first air bag simultaneously.

[0094] 21. The ergonomic mat system of clause 20, further comprising a third port 188D coupled to the second air bladder, the third port being configured to couple to a vacuum source 106 to exhaust air from the second air bladder and the first air bladder.

[0095] 22. A method 600 comprising:

[0096] Positioning the bladder 110 of the ergonomic mat 102 relative to a surface in the work area 200 , wherein positioning the bladder relative to the surface causes the material 114 disposed within the bladder to settle into position against the surface; and

[0097] The vacuum source 106 is activated in fluid communication with the port 116 of the ergonomic pad to remove air from the bladders to conform the bladders to the material, causing the sides of the ergonomic pad to assume a shape complementary to the surface.

[0098] 23. The method of clause 22, further comprising coupling the port of the ergonomic pad to a second port 116B of a second ergonomic pad 102B, wherein the vacuum source is coupled to a third port of the second ergonomic pad, and air extracted from the airbag passes through the second ergonomic pad in response to activation of the vacuum source.

[0099] The abstract of the present disclosure is submitted with the understanding that the abstract will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing detailed description, various features may be combined together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of simplifying the present disclosure. The above examples illustrate but do not limit the present disclosure. It should also be understood that many modifications and variations are possible based on the principles of the present disclosure. As reflected in the appended claims, the claimed subject matter may involve less than all the features of any example in the disclosed examples. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An ergonomic mat (102), comprising: an air bag (110) formed of a compliant material; a granular material (114) disposed within the airbag and at least partially filling the airbag; and a port (116) coupled to the bladder, the port being configured to enable exhaust of air (124) from the bladder, wherein the bladder includes a sealable opening (112) distinct from the port for adding or removing the granular material, wherein the ergonomic mat (102) can be positioned in a desired work location, wherein air can be removed from the ergonomic mat at the work location to cause the ergonomic mat to conform to the shape of the work location, wherein the ergonomic mat is configured to maintain such shape, and wherein air can be reintroduced into the ergonomic mat such that the ergonomic mat is pliable or conformable and ready for reuse in another work area.

2. The ergonomic mat of claim 1, wherein the port comprises a pressure-actuated valve (120) configured to maintain a pressure level in the air bladder after air is exhausted through the port.

3. The ergonomic mat of claim 1 or 2, wherein the port is configured to be removably coupled to a vacuum source (106) to facilitate exhausting air from the air bladder.

4. The ergonomic mat of claim 1 , wherein in response to exhausting air from the bladder, the bladder conforms to a shape at least partially defined by the granular material, and wherein the port and the sealable opening are sufficiently airtight to enable the bladder to maintain the shape after the port is disconnected from a vacuum source.

5. The ergonomic pad according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an adjacent layer (132) defining an outer surface (134) of the airbag or a cover (130) of the airbag, the adjacent layer comprising a first layer and a second layer, wherein the first layer and the second layer are arranged on opposite sides of the airbag such that when the first layer is above the airbag, the second layer is below the airbag.

6. The ergonomic mat of claim 5, wherein at least one of the first layer or the second layer comprises one or more fasteners (138) to fasten more than one ergonomic mat together, the one or more fasteners being selected from the group consisting of hook and loop fasteners, hook and eye fasteners, snaps, buckles, or straps.

7. The ergonomic mat according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the granular material comprises one or more of the following: solid polymer granules, hollow polymer granules or foam granules.

8. The ergonomic mat of claim 1 , further comprising a flexible hose (122) coupled to the port, the flexible hose including a connector (118) configured to enable the port to be coupled to a vacuum source regardless of the position and orientation of the airbag.

9. The ergonomic mat according to claim 8, further comprising a second port (116B) coupled to the airbag and a second flexible hose coupled to the second port, wherein the second flexible hose comprises a second connector (118B), the second connector being configured to couple to a second airbag (110B) so that the vacuum source coupled to the port can exhaust air from the airbag and the second airbag via the port.

10. An ergonomic mat system (100) comprising the ergonomic mat (102) according to any one of the preceding claims and further comprising: a first connector (118A) coupled to a first port of a first ergonomic pad (102A); and A second ergonomic pad (102B), the second ergonomic pad comprising: a second airbag (110B); a second amount of filler material disposed within the second airbag; a second port (116B) coupled to the second airbag, the second port being configured to exhaust air from the second airbag; and A second connector (118B) is coupled to the second port, the second connector being configured to be coupled to the first connector to link the airbag and the second airbag.

Images