Membrane arrangement with ring surrounding the membrane body, as well as seat arrangement and pump arrangement

Abstract

Membrane arrangement (1) comprising a membrane (7) that defines a volume space (5), a membrane body (9), characterized by a convex contact contour (12, 121) arranged adjacent to a transition area (16) from the membrane (7) to the membrane body (9) on an outer side (11) of the membrane order (1) facing away from the volume space (5), wherein the convex contact contour (12, 121) is provided by a ring (13, 117) surrounding the membrane body (9), wherein the ring (13) is designed separately from the membrane assembly (1) and engages in a groove (15) surrounding the membrane body (9) or wherein the ring (117) and the membrane assembly (1) are designed as one piece, and the ring (117) is at least partially embedded in the membrane body (9).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a membrane arrangement comprising a membrane defining a volume space and a membrane body according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] Membrane arrangements of the type described above are frequently used in pump arrangements or seating arrangements. In these applications, it is of particular interest to extend the service life of the membrane or to reduce stresses on the membrane.

[0003] DE 39 01 071 A1 describes a piston pump with a rolling diaphragm. The rolling diaphragm is arranged between a cylindrical outer circumferential surface on the piston side and a cylindrical inner circumferential surface on the housing side, which is radially spaced apart from it. The diaphragm has two sections resting on these circumferential surfaces and connected to each other in an annular manner. During piston strokes, the diaphragm is alternately rolled up and down on the circumferential surfaces. The rolling diaphragm acts as a secondary seal, so that, according to DE 39 01 071 A1, the rolling diaphragm is subjected to low pressures.

[0004] DE 40 07 932 A1 describes a diaphragm pump with a molded diaphragm. In this design, an approximately annular pivot zone forms the transition from the central area of ​​the molded diaphragm to the diaphragm's edge area at its outer edge. Furthermore, ribs or stabilizing projections are provided on the underside of the diaphragm, oriented towards its underside, at least in its central area or its edge area. According to DE 40 07 932 A1, this allows for a thinner diaphragm wall under otherwise identical conditions, resulting in reduced flexural work and a longer diaphragm service life.

[0005] DE 22 11 096 describes a diaphragm pump for generating a vacuum, wherein the wall of the pumping chamber facing the diaphragm has a bulge that projects slightly into the pumping chamber in the area where the diaphragm last approaches the top dead center of the pumping chamber wall.

[0006] Furthermore, a vehicle seat and a method for controlling pressurizable elements of a vehicle seat are known from DE 10 2011 015 532 A1.

[0007] A fuel diaphragm pump is known from US Patent 3,021,792. The diaphragm has a central and an outer section. An O-ring is provided at the transition between the central and outer sections.

[0008] A diaphragm pump with a connecting rod is also known from DE 196 47 882 A1. The diaphragm has a thickening in a central area.

[0009] EP 1 956 242 A1 relates to a diaphragm pump in the central area of ​​which a piston is placed on the diaphragm and connected to it.

[0010] DE 195 25 557 A1 relates to a diaphragm metering pump with a working diaphragm that has a diaphragm body.

[0011] DE 41 19 228 A1 relates to a diaphragm pump. The diaphragm pump has a central section and a thin-walled annular zone. An elastic support is arranged below the thin-walled annular zone.

[0012] US patent 2,658,526 discloses a diaphragm for a pump with an upper and a lower section that enclose a ring. The diaphragm has a central hole.

[0013] JP 2009-293426 A relates to a diaphragm pump with a diaphragm body into which an actuator extends and with a partially U-shaped diaphragm.

[0014] DE 103 12 899 A1 relates to a diaphragm pump which has a support rib in the diaphragm area.

[0015] The current state of the art regarding membrane arrangements describes methods for limiting membrane movement or structuring the membrane. However, particularly with large membrane deflections, the structured areas would be subjected to excessive stress, ultimately leading to a reduction in membrane lifespan. This reduction would be further exacerbated if the membrane were not only deflected linearly but also tilted, resulting in compression and / or stretching across its surface.

[0016] The object of the invention is to provide a membrane arrangement which has a long service life and can be arranged to be movable in different directions, as well as enabling large membrane deflections.

[0017] This problem is solved according to the invention by a membrane arrangement according to claim 1, in which a convex support contour is provided adjacent to a transition area from the membrane to the membrane body on an outer surface of the membrane arrangement facing away from the volume space.

[0018] This has the particular technical effect of relieving stress on the membrane, as the convex contour of the mounting surface limits bending of the membrane.

[0019] Advantageously, the membrane material can comprise a film or a textile, and can include an outer and an inner surface. Even more advantageously, the membrane material can comprise rubber.

[0020] Furthermore, the membrane material enclosing the textile, or the membrane material enclosing the film, can be coated with rubber on either the outer or inner surface. The membrane material enclosing the textile, or the membrane material enclosing the film, can also be coated with rubber on both the outer and inner surfaces. Alternatively, the membrane material enclosing the rubber can be coated with film on either the outer or inner surface, or the membrane material enclosing the rubber can be coated with textile on either the outer or inner surface.Alternatively, the membrane material, which includes rubber, can be coated with the film on the outside and inside of the membrane material, or the membrane material, which includes rubber, can be coated with the textile on the outside and inside of the membrane material.

[0021] Another embodiment of the membrane is a coating of the outer or inner surface of the membrane material, which includes rubber, with either the film or the textile, and of the other outer or inner surface of the membrane material, which includes rubber, with the other film or textile.

[0022] Another embodiment of the membrane material can comprise any sequence of layers of rubber and / or textile and / or film.

[0023] In particular, the membrane body can be made of, for example, a thermoplastic, a thermoset, or rubber, and can otherwise be hollow. Likewise, the membrane body can be solid, i.e., not hollow. Furthermore, the hardness of the membrane body material can be the same as, or it can differ from, the hardness of the membrane body material. Preferably, the hardness of the membrane body material can be greater than the hardness of the membrane material.

[0024] In one embodiment, the membrane and the membrane body can be made in one piece.

[0025] In another embodiment, the membrane and the membrane body can be designed separately and connected to each other in a fluid-tight manner.

[0026] In one embodiment of a separately constructed membrane and membrane body, a fluid-tight connection can comprise adhesive bonding or, preferably, vulcanization. Vulcanization can preferably be carried out in a temperature range between 100°C and 300°C. Adhesive bonding can preferably include the use of one- or multi-component adhesives. In particular, in the embodiment of a separately constructed membrane and membrane body, a fluid-tight connection can be achieved by thermoplastic welding of the membrane and membrane body. Furthermore, in the embodiment of a separately constructed membrane and membrane body, the fluid-tight connection can comprise ultrasonic welding.

[0027] In particular, in a one-piece embodiment of the membrane and membrane body, the membrane and membrane body can be manufactured together in a casting process, wherein the casting process may, in particular, involve rubber. The casting process may, in particular, involve injection molding. The casting process may further include thermoplastic injection molding, or furthermore, elastomer injection molding, or alternatively, thermoset injection molding.

[0028] In one embodiment, the convex contact contour can be provided by a ring surrounding the membrane body.

[0029] In one embodiment, the ring can be designed separately from the membrane assembly, or the ring and the membrane assembly can be designed as a single piece.

[0030] In an embodiment in which the ring and membrane assembly are formed in one piece, the ring can be at least partially embedded in the membrane body and may optionally include indentations to minimize material stresses in the area of ​​the membrane.

[0031] In one embodiment, the convex contour can be designed as a smooth surface. A surface is considered "smooth" in the sense of having minimal surface roughness, which can be determined according to an area-related roughness value as defined in the DIN EN ISO 25178 series of standards. According to the invention, the area-related roughness value should not exceed 100 micrometers and is preferably less than 100 micrometers so that the surface can be considered "smooth".

[0032] Preferably, the ring can be an O-ring and comprise rubber or plastic. Alternatively, the ring can be metallic and preferably comprise copper, stainless steel, or brass.

[0033] In particular, the plastic O-ring can include at least one injection point, which may be located on an inner edge of the O-ring. Preferably, the plastic O-ring can be manufactured using an injection molding process. Alternatively, the O-ring can be manufactured using a thermoplastic injection molding process, or it can be manufactured using an elastomer injection molding process, or it can be manufactured using a thermoset injection molding process.

[0034] In particular, the O-ring may be made of ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0035] In one embodiment, the cord cross-section of the ring (or O-ring) can have a diameter in a range of 0.5 mm to 20 mm.

[0036] In one embodiment, the diameter of the ring (or O-ring) can be in a range of 5 mm to 100 mm, preferably in a range of 5 to 50 mm.

[0037] In one embodiment, the membrane can comprise an outer and an inner surface, wherein the membrane body can furthermore be arranged in a first position or in a second position, wherein the membrane can at least partially abut the convex contact contour when the membrane body is arranged in the first position, wherein furthermore the membrane can at least partially enclose the convex contact contour when the membrane body is arranged in the second position.

[0038] Optionally, the membrane body can also be arranged in a third position between the first and second positions, whereby the membrane can at least partially enclose the convex application contour when the membrane body is arranged in the third position.

[0039] Preferably, the convex contour of the device, which is at least partially enclosed by the membrane, can be designed as a smooth surface. A surface is considered "smooth" in the sense of having minimal surface roughness, which can be determined according to an area-related roughness value as defined in the DIN EN ISO 25178 series of standards. According to the invention, the area-related roughness value should not exceed 100 micrometers and is preferably less than 100 micrometers so that the surface can be considered "smooth".

[0040] Preferably, the membrane body can further be configured to be tiltable relative to the membrane in the first, second, or third position. Tilting can preferably be effected by an external force acting on the membrane body, and can furthermore be effected by acting on an end of the membrane body located on the outside of the membrane arrangement.

[0041] Optionally, the membrane body can be configured to perform a linear movement, wherein the linear movement moves the membrane body along a longitudinal axis from the first position to the second position or from the second position to the first position.

[0042] In particular, the membrane that at least partially encloses the convex contour can have a bending radius that can correspond at least to a radius of a cord cross-section of the convex contour.

[0043] In particular, the outer surface of the membrane can be designed to lose contact with at least a portion of the convex contact contour when the membrane body is in the first position.

[0044] In particular, the outer surface of the membrane in a tilted arrangement of the membrane body can be designed to at least partially enclose the convex application contour.

[0045] In a further embodiment, the membrane arrangement can be arranged in a seating arrangement. In particular, the seating arrangement can comprise a seat, especially a vehicle seat, wherein the seat can comprise the membrane arrangement and an actuator, which can be configured to engage with the membrane body and can further be configured to perform a movement compressing the volume space with the membrane body.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the actuator can act on the end of the membrane body located on the outside of the membrane assembly. In particular, the end of the membrane body located on the outside of the membrane assembly can be rotationally fixed to the actuator, or the end of the membrane body located on the outside of the membrane assembly can be rotatably mounted in the actuator.

[0047] The compressive movement can include the actuator performing a movement, wherein the actuator can further be configured to convert a rotational movement into a translational movement. Preferably, the translational movement can cause the membrane body connected to the actuator to perform a translational movement, and the actuator can additionally guide the membrane body through an angular range, which can include angular values ​​within an interval of 0 degrees to 40 degrees, wherein the angular values ​​can be between an axis of symmetry of the membrane body and a lateral deflection direction of the membrane body. In particular, the movement of the actuator can be a periodic movement, or the movement of the actuator can be an accelerated movement, or the movement of the actuator can be an accelerated and periodic movement.

[0048] In one embodiment, the actuator can be electrically driven, or in another embodiment, the actuator can be pneumatically driven.

[0049] Preferably, the actuator can perform a lifting movement which is transferred to the membrane body.

[0050] Preferably, the volume space can comprise a volume in the range of 0.2 ml to 5 l.

[0051] In one embodiment, the volume space can be filled with a gas, wherein the gas may preferably comprise air and / or nitrogen and / or may further comprise oxygen, hydrogen and / or hydrocarbons to adjust an effect of the compressive movement.

[0052] In another embodiment, the volume space can be filled with a liquid, the liquid being able to have a viscosity to adjust the effect of the compressive movement.

[0053] In a further embodiment, the volume space can be filled with both gas and liquid to adjust the effect of the compressive movement.

[0054] In another aspect, a pump arrangement can include at least one diaphragm arrangement in one of the variants described above.

[0055] Furthermore, the pump arrangement can include at least one valve, which can be a flap valve and may comprise rubber. The valve can be arranged with one side adjacent to the volume chamber and close it when the valve is in the closed position. The valve can also be arranged with one side adjacent to a channel adjacent to the volume chamber.

[0056] The channel can have at least two ends, with a first end being coupled to the diaphragm assembly. In particular, the valve can be opened or closed by a pressure difference between the volume chamber and the channel. If the pressure in the volume chamber is greater than the pressure in the channel, the valve can be opened towards the channel. If the pressure in the channel is greater than in the volume chamber, the valve can be opened towards the volume chamber.

[0057] A second end of the channel can be coupled to a switchable valve, which can be configured to fill or vent the channel. The channel can be configured to discharge fluid flowing out of the volume space, or it can be configured to supply fluid for flow into the volume space.

[0058] In particular, the pump can have a compressive effect. Optionally, the pump can be designed as a delivery pump.

[0059] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments, which are illustrated in the figures. Fig. 1 a top view of a membrane arrangement according to the invention, which is arranged in a first position; Fig. 2 a sectional view through the membrane arrangement according to the invention Fig. 1 along a plane defined by the dashed line II-II in Fig. 1 is marked and protrudes perpendicularly from the image plane; Fig. 3 a top view of the membrane arrangement according to the invention in a second position; Fig. 4 a sectional view through the membrane arrangement according to the invention Fig. 3 along a plane defined by the dashed line IV-IV in Fig. 3 is marked and protrudes perpendicularly from the image plane; Fig. 5 a top view of the membrane arrangement according to the invention in a third position; Fig. 6 a sectional view through the membrane arrangement according to the invention Fig. 5 along a plane defined by the dashed line VI-VI in Fig. 5 is marked and protrudes perpendicularly from the image plane; Fig. 7 a ring, in particular an O-ring, without injection points and a cross-section through the O-ring, at the location marked by line VIII-VIII; Fig. 8 a ring, in particular an O-ring, with two injection points on an inner edge of the O-ring and a cross-section through the O-ring at the location marked by the line XX; Fig. 9 a seating arrangement comprising a seat and a backrest and at least one membrane arrangement according to the invention arranged therein; Fig. 10 / 11 a movement sequence of the membrane arrangement according to the invention, wherein an actuator engages in the membrane body; Fig. 12 an embodiment of the membrane arrangement according to the invention with a ring integrally formed with the membrane body; and Fig. 13 a pump arrangement comprising at least one diaphragm arrangement.

[0060] Corresponding components, which are shown in the preceding figures, are identified by the same reference numerals in the figures and the detailed figure description below. Furthermore, alternative components with a corresponding effect, such as the membrane assembly components described above and below, are considered interchangeable.

[0061] In Fig. Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a membrane arrangement 1 according to the invention, wherein the membrane arrangement 1 is arranged in a first position 3. This is further shown in Fig. 2 illustrated by the sectional view shown there.

[0062] Fig. Figure 2 shows a section along a plane which is in Fig. 1 is marked with the dashed line II-II and protrudes perpendicularly from the image plane. The section shown is in the Fig. 2 is to be understood as a radially symmetric section through the membrane arrangement 1. This means in particular that the plane which corresponds to the in Fig. The area marked by the dashed line II-II can be rotated by any angle 4 and a section along this rotated plane can be made to match the one shown in the diagram. Fig. would correspond to the cut shown in section 2.

[0063] The membrane assembly 1 comprises a membrane 7 delimiting a volume space 5 and a membrane body 9, wherein the membrane body 9 seals the volume space 5 in a fluid-tight manner. The first position 3 of the membrane assembly 1 described above means, in particular, that the membrane body 9 is arranged in a first position 3. In this first position 3, the membrane assembly 1 can be elongated, with the membrane body 9 projecting from the volume space 5. A convex contact contour 12 is arranged on an outer surface 11 of the membrane assembly 1 facing away from the volume space 5. This convex contact contour 12 can encompass or be formed by a ring 13 surrounding the membrane body 9. The ring 13 can be designed separately from the membrane assembly 1. Furthermore, the ring 13 can engage in a groove 15, wherein the groove 15 can surround the membrane body 9 and can be designed as a concavity 15 of the membrane body 9.

[0064] The membrane arrangement 1 described above can be manufactured in one piece and comprise the membrane 7 and the membrane body 9 as a single unit, wherein the membrane body 9 can seal the volume space 5 in a fluid-tight manner. In this case, a one-piece embodiment consisting of the membrane 7 and the membrane body 9 can be manufactured, in particular, by the casting process described above.

[0065] Alternatively, the membrane arrangement 1 can also be formed by the membrane 7 and the membrane body 9, whereby the membrane 7 and the membrane body 9 can be designed separately. The membrane 7 and the membrane body 9 can be fluid-tightly connected to each other. Thus, the membrane body 9 can seal the volume space 5 in a fluid-tight manner.

[0066] Furthermore, the membrane arrangement 1 can be at least partially arranged in a volume-limiting housing (not shown in detail), wherein the housing can be configured to limit a volume of the membrane arrangement 1. In particular, the housing can be configured to limit the expansion of the membrane arrangement 1. Preferably, the housing can be configured to limit the volume space 5 of the membrane 7.

[0067] The fluid-tight joining of membrane 7 and membrane body 9 can include bonding or, preferably, vulcanization. Vulcanization can preferably be carried out in a temperature range between 100°C and 300°C. In particular, a fluid-tight connection between membrane 7 and membrane body 9 can be produced by vulcanization adjacent to the location of the convex contact contour 12. The groove 15 can be shaped as desired. The desired shape of the groove 15 can include at least one indentation in the membrane assembly 1. Vulcanization can preferably be carried out in a transition area 16 from the membrane 7 to the membrane body 9 on the outer surface 11 of the membrane assembly 1, facing away from the volume space 5. This allows the groove 15 to be arranged in the transition area 16; preferably, the groove 15 can be arranged as an indentation of the membrane body 9.In the case of a fluid-tight connection by means of adhesive bonding, the bonding can comprise bonding the membrane 7 and the membrane body 9 in the transition region 16 between the membrane 7 and the membrane body 9 on the outer surface 11 of the membrane assembly 1, facing away from the volume space 5. The desired shape of the groove 15 can be formed before the membrane 7 and membrane body 9 are bonded. In particular, the desired shape of the groove 15 can be formed in the transition region 16; preferably, the groove 15 can be arranged as a concave shape of the membrane body 9.

[0068] The bonding process preferably involves the use of one-component or, alternatively, multi-component adhesives. In particular, if the membrane 7 and membrane body 9 are designed separately, a fluid-tight connection between the membrane 7 and membrane body 9 can be achieved by thermoplastic welding. Furthermore, if the membrane 7 and membrane body 9 are designed separately, the fluid-tight joining of the membrane 7 and membrane body 9 can involve ultrasonic welding. When joining using one of the aforementioned welding methods, as with bonding, the desired shape of the groove 15 can be provided in the transition area 16 from the membrane 7 to the membrane body 9 on the outer surface 11 of the membrane assembly 1, facing away from the volume space 5, prior to welding the membrane 7 and membrane body 9. Preferably, the groove 15 can be provided as a concave shape of the membrane body 9.

[0069] The ring 13 has a diameter 17 which can range from 5 mm to 100 mm. The ring 13 further comprises a cord cross-section 19, wherein the cord cross-section 19 can have a diameter ranging from 0.5 mm to 20 mm. The ring 13 can also comprise a surface section 21. Here, the surface section 21 is to be understood as any section of an outer surface of the ring 13 and is not limited to a single surface section. Furthermore, the surface section 21 can form the convex contact contour 12. The surface section 21 can be configured to engage in the groove 15. Preferably, however, the membrane 7 can be configured to at least partially abut the surface section 21. Furthermore, the surface section 21 can be configured as a smooth surface, preferably in the area that engages in the groove 15 and in the area where the membrane 7 at least partially abuts.The section of the ring 13 opposite the smooth surface section 21 can either also be smooth or can have a rough surface. Preferably, the ring 13 can be manufactured cost-effectively by forming at least the surface section 21 as a smooth surface, in particular by polishing, while other surface sections of the ring 13 can remain untreated.

[0070] Further details of the engagement of the ring 13 in the groove 15 and the partial contact of the membrane 7 with the surface section 21 of the ring 13 can be explained based on the geometry of the membrane 7. The membrane 7 also comprises an outer surface 23 and an inner surface 25. In the first position 3 of the membrane body 9, the ring 13 can ideally be in full contact with the outer surface 23 of the membrane 7. Alternatively, the ring 13 need not be in full contact with the outer surface 23 of the membrane 7, but rather the outer surface 23 can lose contact with at least a partial section 26 of the surface section 21 of the ring 13 when the membrane body 9 is arranged in the first position. In particular, the outer surface 23 can lose contact with at least the partial section 26 of the surface section 21 of the ring 13 along a circumferential direction 27 of the membrane assembly 1.

[0071] In Fig. 3 the membrane arrangement 1 according to the invention is arranged in a second position 29. This is further shown in Fig. 4 is illustrated by the sectional view shown there. In the second position 29, the membrane arrangement 1 can be compressed, with the membrane body 9 projecting into the volume space 5.

[0072] Fig. Figure 4 shows a section along a plane which is in Fig. 3 is marked with the dashed line IV-IV and protrudes perpendicularly from the image plane. The section shown is in the Fig. 3 is to be understood as a radially symmetric section through the membrane arrangement 1. This means in particular that the plane which corresponds to the in Fig. The 3 dashed line IV-IV is marked, can be rotated by any angle 31 and a section along this rotated plane can be made again to the one shown in Fig. would correspond to the cut shown in section 4.

[0073] The characteristics of the membrane arrangement 1 described above in the first position 3 according to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 apply analogously to the characteristics of the membrane arrangement 1 in the second position 29 according to the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. However, in the second position 29 of the membrane body 9, the following additional features regarding the interaction of the ring 13 with the membrane 7 should be highlighted.

[0074] In particular, if the membrane body 9 is arranged in the second position 29, the ring 13 can be at least partially enclosed by the outer surface 23 of the membrane 7, as is the case, for example, in Fig. Figure 4 is shown as an example. The membrane body 9 can compress the volume space 5. The surface section 21 of the ring 13, which is now enclosed by the membrane 7, can preferably be designed as a smooth surface. The section of the ring 13 opposite the smooth surface section 21 can either also be smooth or can have a rough surface. In particular, the ring 13 can be manufactured cost-effectively by designing at least the surface section 21 as a smooth surface, especially by polishing, while other surface sections of the ring 13 can remain untreated. If the ring 13 is at least partially enclosed by the outer surface 23 of the membrane 7, the membrane 7 can have a bending radius 34, which can correspond at least to a radius of the cord cross-section 19 of the ring 13. This has a bending-limiting effect on the membrane 7.

[0075] In Fig. 5 the membrane arrangement 1 according to the invention is arranged in a third position 35. This is further shown in Fig. Figure 6 illustrates this with reference to the sectional view shown there. In the third position 35, the membrane arrangement 1 can be partially elongated and partially compressed, or it can be less compressed in the third position 35 than in the second position 29. In this case, the membrane body 9 can project at least partially into the volume space 5. In particular, the partially elongated and partially compressed arrangement of the membrane arrangement 1 in the third position 35 can be achieved by tilting the membrane body 9.

[0076] Fig. Figure 6 shows a section along a plane which is in Fig. 5 is marked with the dashed line VI-VI and protrudes perpendicularly from the image plane.

[0077] The third position 35 of the membrane arrangement 1 means, in particular, that the membrane body 9 is arranged in a third position 35. The features of the membrane arrangement 1 described above in the first position 3 and in the second position 29 according to the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. 4 apply analogously to the characteristics of the membrane arrangement 1 in the third position 35 according to the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. However, the following additional features regarding the interaction of the ring 13 with the membrane 7 should be highlighted in the third position 35 of the membrane body 9. When the membrane body 9 is arranged in the third position 35, the membrane body 9 can, in particular, be arranged between the first position 3 and the second position 29, as shown in Fig. Figure 6 shows that in the third position 35 of the membrane body 9, the ring 13 can be at least partially enclosed by the outer surface 23 of the membrane 7, as shown in Fig. Figure 6 is shown. If the ring 13 is at least partially enclosed by the outer surface 23 of the membrane 7, the membrane 7 can have a bending radius 34, which can correspond at least to the radius of the cord cross-section 19 of the ring 13. This has a bending-limiting effect on the membrane 7. Furthermore, the membrane body 9, when arranged in the third position 35, can compress the volume space 5. The volume space 5 can be maximally compressed, for example, in the second position 29 and minimally or less than maximally compressed in the first position 3, or ideally, not compressed at all in the first position 3.In the third position 35, the volume space 5 can be compressed in such a way that a compression of the volume space 5 can be achieved which may lie between a first compression of the volume space 5 in the first position 3 and a second compression of the volume space 5 in the second position 29.

[0078] In particular, the membrane body 9 can be configured to be tiltable relative to the membrane 7 in all three positions 3, 29, and 35. However, the membrane body 9 does not necessarily have to be tilted. Tilting of the membrane body 9 is preferably provided in the third position 35 of the membrane body 9, as shown in Fig. Figure 6 shows that tilting the membrane body 9 in the third position 35 can result in the membrane body 9 being arranged, in particular, between the first position 3 and the second position 29, as shown in Figure 6. Fig. Figure 6 shows that the membrane 7 can preferably be arranged in a tilted configuration of the membrane body 9 to at least partially enclose the ring 13. This can be seen from the surface section 21 of the ring 13 in the Fig. Figure 6 shows that when the membrane body 9 is tilted, the surface section 21 can be enclosed to a greater extent by the membrane 7 than the surface section 21 at another location of the ring 13, whereby the surface section 21 can at least be in contact with the outer surface 23 of the membrane 7.

[0079] As described above, the surface section 21, which can be enclosed by the membrane 7, can be designed as a smooth surface. The section of the ring 13 opposite the smooth surface section 21 can either also be smooth or have a rough surface. In particular, the ring 13 can be manufactured cost-effectively by designing at least the surface section 21 as a smooth surface, especially by polishing, while other surface sections of the ring 13 can remain untreated. If the ring 13 is at least partially enclosed by the outer surface 23 of the membrane 7, the membrane 7 can have a bending radius 34, which can correspond at least to a radius of the cord cross-section 19 of the ring 13.

[0080] Although the ring 13 in the third position 35 of the membrane body 9 can preferably bear completely against the outer surface 23 of the membrane 7, the outer surface 23 can be designed to lose contact with at least a partial section 40 of the surface section 21 of the ring 13 when the membrane body 9 is tilted significantly. In particular, the outer surface 23 can lose contact with at least a partial section 40 of the surface section 21 of the ring 13 along a circumferential direction 41 of the membrane arrangement 1. A person skilled in the art will further understand that the membrane body 9 can be tilted in any other direction, one direction preferably being in an xy-plane of a coordinate system 42. Such tilting can have a corresponding effect on the membrane arrangement 1 as described above for a tilted arrangement of the membrane body 9 and as shown in the Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 shown.

[0081] Fig. Figure 7 shows a top view of the ring 13 and a cord cross-section 43 through the ring 13 along the dashed line VIII-VIII. The cord cross-section 43 of the ring 13 can have a diameter 44 in the range of 0.5 mm to 20 mm. Furthermore, the ring 13 can have a diameter (average of the outer and inner diameters) 17, which can be in the range of 5 mm to 100 mm. The ring 13 can be an O-ring and comprise rubber or plastic. However, the ring 13 can also be metallic and preferably comprise stainless steel, copper, or brass. The O-ring, which can comprise rubber or plastic, can be made of ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). Preferably, the O-ring comprises rubber and is deformable. The rubber O-ring can also preferably have a lower hardness than a corresponding plastic O-ring.The plastic O-ring can preferably be designed to be non-deformable or only slightly deformable in order to form a more rigid membrane arrangement 1.

[0082] Fig. Figure 8 shows a top view of another embodiment of the ring 13 and a cord cross-section 45 through the ring 13 along the dashed line XX. The ring 13 can preferably be designed as a plastic O-ring and, as shown in Fig. Figure 8 shows that the O-ring comprises at least one injection point 47, which is formed on an inner edge 49 of the plastic O-ring. The cord cross-section 45 along the dashed line XX can have a diameter 50 and represents the cord cross-section 45 along the at least one injection point 47. Furthermore, Figure 8 shows that the O-ring comprises at least one injection point 47, which is formed on an inner edge 49 of the plastic O-ring. The cord cross-section 45 along the dashed line XX can have a diameter 50. Fig. 8. A cord cross-section 51 along the dashed line XII-XII. The cord cross-section 51 can have a diameter 53. The diameter 50 can be smaller than the diameter 53, since the cord cross-section 45 can be smaller due to the injection point 47. Outside the injection point 47, the O-ring can again have an approximately round cord cross-section, as illustrated by the cord cross-section 51. Here, the approximately round cord cross-section 51 is not deformed by an injection point, thus reducing its cross-section. In particular, it follows from the Fig. 8 highlights that the cord cross-section 45 of the ring 13 and a cord cross-section of the ring 13 in general need not be round, but the cord cross-section can be deformed and in particular may deviate from a round shape.

[0083] Fig. Figure 9 shows a seating arrangement 101, which may include a seat 102, in particular a vehicle seat. The seating arrangement 101 may further comprise a seat surface 103, a backrest 105, and air bubble arrangements 106. The seating arrangement 101 may also include the membrane arrangement 1 according to the invention, which may be arranged in or adjacent to the seating arrangement 101, as shown in Fig. Figure 9 is shown. The seating arrangement 101 can further comprise a control unit 107, which can be in pneumatic contact with the air bubble arrangements 106. In particular, the control unit 107 can be configured to open or close a pneumatic contact with one of the air bubble arrangements 106, or the control unit 107 can be configured to open or close a pneumatic contact with several air bubble arrangements 106. The membrane arrangement 1 according to the invention can further comprise an actuator 109, which engages in the membrane body 9. In particular, the control unit 107 can be configured to actuate the actuator 109. Furthermore, the membrane arrangement 1 can be in pneumatic contact with the control unit 107. Through the control unit 107, the membrane arrangement 1 can be in pneumatic contact with one air bubble arrangement 106, or the membrane arrangement 1 can be in pneumatic contact with several air bubble arrangements 106.Furthermore, the pneumatic contact between the membrane arrangement 1 and an air bubble arrangement 106 or the pneumatic contact between the membrane arrangement 1 and several air bubble arrangements 106 can be disconnected by the control unit 107.

[0084] One embodiment of the membrane arrangement 1 according to the invention, together with the actuator 109 engaging in the membrane body 9, is shown in the Fig. 10 and Fig. Figure 11 illustrates this. The actuator 109 can be arranged to tilt, and tilting can occur at least with respect to a longitudinal axis 111. Furthermore, the actuator 109 can be configured to convert a rotational movement into a translational movement. Preferably, the translational movement can cause the membrane body 9 connected to the actuator 109 to perform a translational movement at least along the longitudinal axis 111, and the actuator 109 can additionally guide the membrane body 9 through an angular range, which can encompass angular values ​​113 within an interval from 0 degrees to 40 degrees. The angular values ​​113 can be located between an axis of symmetry 115 of the membrane body 9 and the longitudinal axis 111. Figure 11 illustrates this in particular. Fig. 10 a laterally inclined membrane body 9 and Fig. 11 a membrane body 9, whose axis of symmetry 115 is only slightly inclined relative to the longitudinal axis 111 and which has been moved translationally along the longitudinal axis 111.

[0085] Such a movement of the membrane body 9 can cause a compression of the volume space 5. If the seating arrangement 101 includes the membrane arrangement 1 described above, a massage function can be enabled in the seating arrangement 101 by acting on the air bubble arrangements 106 as described above. In particular, the actuator 109 could actuate the membrane arrangement 1 at least through the first position 3, second position 29, and third position 35 described above, which are located in the Fig. The reversible compressive movement of the volume space 5, as shown in Figures 1-6, can be performed by the actuator 109 and the membrane body 9 and can include a continuous movement of the membrane body 9. This allows the membrane body 9 to be moved through the first position 3, the second position 29, and the third position 35.

[0086] Furthermore, the membrane arrangement 1 described above has been considered as a single arrangement for the purpose of a simplified description. In contrast, four or more than four membrane arrangements 1 can be arranged symmetrically, i.e., in a square or "cloverleaf" configuration, in a configuration not shown in detail. In the configuration described in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. In Figures 6, 10, and 11, the membrane arrangement 1 is shown in different positions that can be effected by the actuator 109. In particular, the above-described configuration with four or more than four membrane arrangements 1 could include movement of the membrane arrangements 1, wherein the membrane arrangements 1 can be moved sequentially through the first, second, and third positions 3, 29, and 35 described above.

[0087] In Fig. Figure 12 shows a further embodiment of a membrane arrangement 116 according to the invention, with a ring 117 which is integrally formed with the membrane arrangement 116. The membrane arrangement 116 can comprise at least the movements of the membrane arrangement 1 described above. For example, the membrane arrangement 116 is in the Fig. 12 is shown in the first position 3 described above, whereby the membrane arrangement could also be arranged in positions 29 and 35. In particular, at least the interaction of membrane 7 and ring 13 described above can also be expected for membrane 7 and ring 117 and is to be understood analogously for membrane arrangement 116 to the above description of membrane arrangement 1.

[0088] The membrane assembly 116 can further comprise recesses in the form of indentations 119 to minimize material stresses in the area of ​​the membrane 7. The indentations 119 are located adjacent to the volume space 5 below the ring 117. Furthermore, a surface section 120 of the ring 117 can form the convex contact contour 121. Here, the surface section 120 is to be understood as any section of an outer surface of the ring 117 and is not limited to a single surface section. Preferably, the surface section 120 is designed as a smooth surface. The ring 117 can preferably be integrally formed with the membrane assembly 116 using the casting method described above. The ring 117 can be partially embedded in the membrane body 9 in the transition area 16. In this case, the ring 117 can further comprise a cord cross-section 123 with a diameter 125 in a range of 0.5 mm to 20 mm.If the ring 117 is at least partially enclosed by the outer surface 23 of the membrane 7, the membrane 7 can have a bending radius 127 which can correspond at least to a radius 127 of the cord cross-section 123 of the ring 117. This has a bending-limiting effect on the membrane 7 in particular.

[0089] Fig. Figure 13 shows a pump arrangement 202 according to the invention, which comprises at least one diaphragm arrangement 1. Furthermore, the pump arrangement 202 can include the actuator 109. The actuator 109 acts on the diaphragm body 9 as described above, and the actuator 109 can be driven by a rotor 203.

[0090] The pump arrangement 202 can include at least one valve 204, which can be arranged with a first side 206 of the valve 204 adjacent to the volume chamber 5 of the diaphragm arrangement 1. The valve 204 can be arranged with a second side 208 of the valve 204 adjacent to a channel 210, 211. The valve 204 can comprise rubber and be designed as a butterfly valve. During a movement of the diaphragm body 9 that compresses the volume chamber 5, fluid located in the volume chamber 5 can flow out into the channel 210 via an outflow direction 212, i.e., the volume chamber 5 can be vented, when the valve 204 is in an open state. The channel 210, 211 can be connected to a pump outlet or pump inlet (not shown), and the channel 210, 211 can be filled or vented by a switchable valve (not shown).If the valve 204 remains closed, at least temporarily, during a compression movement of the diaphragm body 9 within the volume 5, the pump arrangement 202 has a compressive effect, allowing the fluid in the volume 5 to be compressed. During an expansion movement of the diaphragm body 9 within the volume 5, the volume 5 can be filled with fluid via an inflow direction 214 if the valve 204 is open. In this case, the volume 5 can be filled via the channel 211. The outflow direction 212 and the inflow direction 214 are not directional directions but are bidirectional, depending on the specific pump cycle. Thus, the outflow direction 212 can become an inflow direction if the diaphragm body 9 performs an expansion movement within the volume 5.Accordingly, the inflow direction 214 can become an outflow direction if the membrane body 9 performs a movement that compresses the volume space.

[0091] In particular, the valve 204 can be opened or closed by a pressure difference between volume chamber 5 and channel 210, 211. If the pressure in volume chamber 5 is greater than the pressure in channel 210, 211, the valve 204 can be opened towards channel 210, 211. If the pressure in channel 210, 211 is greater than in volume chamber 5, the valve 204 can be opened towards volume chamber 5.

[0092] Preferably the rotor 203 can move along a direction of rotation 215 or the rotor can move against the direction of rotation 215 and thereby transmit a force to the actuator 109.

[0093] By means of a second diaphragm arrangement 1 in the pump arrangement 202, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the volume flow rate can be doubled, and the volume flow rate can be quantified by the quantity of fluid flowing out per unit of time. The operating principle of pump arrangement 202 described above applies analogously.

[0094] The in Fig. 13 Pump arrangement 202 shown represents diaphragm bodies 9 of two diaphragm arrangements 1 in the first position 3 and in the second position 29, wherein in the embodiment of the pump arrangement 202 shown the diaphragm bodies 9 can be configured to be tiltable relative to the diaphragm 7 in the first 3, the second 29 or the third position 35.

[0095] Another embodiment of the pump arrangement 202 described above can include an actuator 109 which can transmit a linear movement to the diaphragm body 9 without tilting it. In this case, the diaphragm body 9 would be able to move along longitudinal axes 216, 218 relative to the diaphragm 5 and not relative to the longitudinal axis 111, as in Fig. 10 shown, be tilted.

Claims

[1] Membrane arrangement (1) comprising a membrane (7) bounding a volume space (5), a membrane body (9), characterized by a convex contact contour (12, 121) arranged adjacent to a transition area (16) from the membrane (7) to the membrane body (9) on an outer side (11) of the membrane order (1) facing away from the volume space (5), wherein the convex contact contour (12, 121) is provided by a ring (13, 117) surrounding the membrane body (9), wherein the ring (13) is designed separately from the membrane assembly (1) and engages in a groove (15) surrounding the membrane body (9) or wherein the ring (117) and the membrane assembly (1) are designed as one piece, and the ring (117) is at least partially embedded in the membrane body (9). [2] Membrane arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the membrane (7) and the membrane body (9) are made in one piece or the membrane (7) and the membrane body (9) are made separately and are connected to each other in a fluid-tight manner. [3] Membrane arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the membrane body (9) comprises indentations (119) for minimizing material stresses in the area of ​​the membrane (7). [4] Membrane arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the convex contact contour (12, 121) is designed as a smooth surface. [5] Membrane arrangement according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the ring (13, 117) is an O-ring and comprises rubber or plastic, or wherein the ring (13) is metallic and preferably comprises stainless steel, copper or brass. [6] Membrane arrangement according to claim 5, wherein the O-ring (13) made of plastic comprises at least one injection point (47) which is arranged on an inner edge (49) of the O-ring (13). [7] Membrane arrangement according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the O-ring (13) comprises the material ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM) or the material polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). [8] Membrane arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a cord cross-section (19, 43, 45, 51, 123) of the ring (13, 117) has a diameter (44, 50, 53, 125) in a range from 0.5 mm to 20 mm. [9] Membrane arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a diameter (17) of the ring (13, 117) is in a range of 5 mm to 100 mm. [10] Membrane arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the membrane (7) comprises an outer (23) and an inner surface (25), wherein the membrane body (9) can further be arranged in a first position (3) or in a second position (29), wherein the membrane (7) at least partially abuts the convex contact contour (12, 121) when the membrane body (9) is arranged in the first position (3), wherein the membrane (7) at least partially encloses the convex contact contour (12, 121) when the membrane body (9) is arranged in the second position (29). [11] Membrane arrangement according to claim 10, wherein the membrane body (9) can further be arranged in a third position (35) between the first (3) and second position (29), wherein the membrane (7) at least partially encloses the convex contact contour (12, 121) when the membrane body (9) is arranged in the third position (35). [12] Membrane arrangement according to one of claims 10 or 11, wherein the convex contact contour (12, 121) which is at least partially enclosed by the membrane (7) is formed as a smooth surface. [13] Membrane arrangement according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the membrane body (9) is configured to be tiltable in the first (3), second (29) or third position (35) relative to the membrane (7). [14] Membrane arrangement according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the membrane body (9) is configured to perform a linear movement, wherein the linear movement moves the membrane body (9) along a longitudinal axis (216, 218) from the first position (3) to the second position (29) or from the second position (29) to the first position (3). [15] Membrane arrangement according to one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the membrane (7) which at least partially encloses the convex contact contour (12, 121) has a bending radius (34) which corresponds at least to a radius of a cord cross-section (19, 43, 45, 51, 123) of the convex contact contour (12, 121). [16] Membrane arrangement according to one of claims 10 to 15, wherein the outer surface (23) of the membrane (7) is designed to lose contact with at least a partial section (26, 120) of the convex contact contour (12, 121) when the membrane body (9) is arranged in the first position (3). [17] Membrane arrangement according to one of claims 13, 15 or 16, wherein the outer surface (23) of the membrane (7) is designed in a tilted arrangement of the membrane body (9) to at least partially enclose the convex contact contour (12, 121). [18] Seating arrangement (101), comprising a seat (102), in particular a vehicle seat, wherein the seat (102) comprises the membrane arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, and furthermore an actuator (109) which is designed to engage with the membrane body (9) and to perform a movement compressing the volume space (5) with the membrane body (9). [19] Pump arrangement (202) comprising at least one diaphragm arrangement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 17.

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