moldable ergonomic pads

Abstract

To provide an ergonomic pad customizable for specific users and workspace.SOLUTION: An ergonomic pad 102 includes a bladder 110 formed of a pliable material and a granular material 114 disposed within the bladder and at least partially filling the bladder. A port is coupled to the bladder and configured to enable evacuation of air from the bladder. The bladder also includes a sealable opening distinct from the port to add or remove the granular material.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to ergonomic pads. [Background technology]

[0002] Manufacturing workers may use support pads to reduce or prevent injuries and to limit or avoid damage to certain surfaces in their workspace. For example, support pads can help workers adopt a more appropriate posture for performing a particular task, thereby preventing ergonomic injuries. As another example, support pads can be used to cover sharp edges and other potential hazards in the workspace.

[0003] Because support pads are used in a wide variety of ways and because users have a wide variety of body types, it is necessary to stock and maintain many different types of support pads or custom-made support pads. Acquiring and maintaining a wide variety of support pads can be costly. In addition, storing the support pads requires a lot of space.

[0004] Furthermore, even if a wide selection of custom support pads is available, when a user performs multiple different tasks at a single work site, the user may be forced to transport several different types of support pads to the work site or to settle for a readily available support pad that is not suitable for the particular task or user. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Ergonomic pads (and related systems and methods) are disclosed that can be customized to fit a particular user and workspace, thereby reducing the need to store and maintain a wide inventory of numerous support pads.

[0006] According to a particular aspect, an ergonomic pad includes a pouch formed of a flexible material and a granular material contained within the pouch and at least partially filling the pouch, the pouch having a port connected to the pouch configured to allow air to be evacuated from the pouch, and the pouch further includes a sealable opening, separate from the port, for adding or removing the granular material.

[0007] According to another particular aspect, an ergonomic pad system includes a first ergonomic pad and a second ergonomic pad. The first ergonomic pad includes a first bladder and a first amount of filler material contained within the first bladder. The filler material has a porosity greater than 0.35. A first port configured to allow air to be exhausted from the first bladder is connected to the first bladder. The first ergonomic pad further includes a first connector connected to the first port. The second ergonomic pad includes a second bladder and a second amount of filler material contained within the second bladder. A second port configured to allow air to be exhausted from the second bladder is connected to the second ergonomic pad. The second ergonomic pad further includes a second connector connected to the second port. The second connector is configured to connect to the first connector and couple the first bladder to the second bladder.

[0008] According to another particular aspect, a method includes placing an ergonomic pad bladder against a surface in a workspace, causing a material contained within the bladder to flow into position along the surface, and further including activating a vacuum source in fluid communication with a port in the ergonomic pad to remove air from the bladder, thereby causing the bladder to conform to the shape of the material and molding both sides of the ergonomic pad to a complementary shape relative to the surface.

[0009] The described features, functions, and advantages may be achieved individually in various embodiments or may be combined in yet other embodiments, the details of which may be understood with reference to the following description and drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an ergonomic pad system including a plurality of ergonomic pads in one embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of using the ergonomic pad system of FIG. 1 in a workspace in one embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 shows another example of using the ergonomic pad system of FIG. 1 in a workspace, according to one embodiment. [Figure 4A] 2 illustrates the ergonomic pad system of FIG. 1 in a formable state in one embodiment. [Figure 4B] FIG. 2 illustrates the hardened state of the ergonomic pad system of FIG. 1 in one embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 shows details of the ergonomic pad system of FIG. 1 in one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 shows details of the ergonomic pad system of FIG. 1 in one embodiment. [Figure 7] 2A-2C show further details of the ergonomic pad system of FIG. 1 in one embodiment. [Figure 8] 2 is a flowchart illustrating a method of using the ergonomic pad system of FIG. 1 in one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The accompanying drawings and the following description illustrate certain exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various modifications that embody the principles described herein and fall within the scope of the following claims, even if such modifications are not explicitly described or shown. Furthermore, the examples described herein are intended to facilitate understanding of the principles of the present disclosure and should not be construed as limiting. In other words, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments or examples described below, but rather by the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0012] Specific embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description, common features are designated by the same reference numeral throughout the drawings. In some drawings, multiple elements of a particular type are shown. These elements are designated by the same reference numeral, even though they are physically and / or logically separate elements. When distinguishing between these elements, a suffix is ​​added to the reference numeral. When referring collectively to such elements as a group or of the same type (e.g., when not referring to a specific one of the elements), a reference numeral without a distinguishing suffix is ​​used. However, when referring to a specific one of multiple elements of the same type, a reference numeral with a distinguishing suffix is ​​used. For example, referring to FIG. 1, multiple ergonomic pads are shown, each associated with reference numerals 102A and 102B. When referring to a specific one of these ergonomic pads, the distinguishing suffix "A" is used, such as ergonomic pad 102A. On the other hand, when referring to any one of these ergonomic pads or when referring to these ergonomic pads collectively as a group, the reference number 102 is used without a subscript.

[0013] Terms used in this specification shall be given their ordinary and customary meaning in the relevant technical field, unless the context clearly contradicts it. The following are exemplary definitions of some terms used in this specification.

[0014] The singular references herein are intended to encompass the plural references unless the context clearly contradicts them. Furthermore, certain elements described herein are described in the singular in some embodiments and in the plural in other embodiments. For ease of reference, such elements may be introduced as "one or more" elements and subsequently described in the singular, except when describing aspects in which multiple elements are involved.

[0015] Additionally, terms such as "comprise" are used synonymously with terms such as "include." Additionally, the term "wherein" is used synonymously with the term "where." As used herein, the term "exemplary" refers to an example, embodiment, and / or aspect, but does not indicate limitation, preference, or a preferred embodiment. As used herein, when elements such as structures, components, processes, etc. are modified using ordinal numbers (e.g., "first," "second," "third," etc.), these ordinal numbers do not indicate a preference for the element over other elements or a particular order. These ordinal numbers are used merely to distinguish the element from other elements (which have the same name except for the ordinal number). As used herein, the term "set" refers to a collection of one or more elements, and the term "plurality" refers to a plurality of elements.

[0016] As used herein, the term "connected" includes being "communicatively connected," "electrically connected," or "physically connected," and (alternatively) includes any combination thereof. When two devices (or components) are connected (e.g., communicatively connected, electrically connected, or physically connected), the two devices may be directly connected or indirectly connected via one or more other devices, components, wires, buses, networks (e.g., wired networks, wireless networks, or combinations thereof), etc. As an illustrative and non-limiting example, two electrically connected devices (or components) may be included in the same device or separate devices, and the two devices may be connected by electronics, one or more connectors, or by inductive coupling. In some embodiments, two devices (or components) communicatively connected, for example, by electrical communication, can send and receive electrical signals (digital or analog signals) directly or indirectly, for example, via one or more wires, buses, networks, etc. As used herein, the term "directly connected" means that two devices are connected (e.g., communicatively connected, electrically connected, or physically connected) without any intervening components.

[0017] The term "packing material" refers to a set of objects that collectively act (e.g., pack) together and exhibit fluid-like behavior when loosely packed and solid-like behavior when tightly packed. In this context, "fluid-like" and "solid-like" refer to the bulk properties of the packing material, not the properties of individual particles of the packing material.

[0018] The material (e.g., filler material) filling the ergonomic pad of the present disclosure allows the ergonomic pad to be reshapeable in some situations and retain its shape in other situations. For example, a user can deflate the ergonomic pad to customize the shape of the ergonomic pad for a particular user or type of use. In some embodiments, the amount of material contained within the ergonomic pad can also be adjusted prior to use. For example, a user working in a smaller workspace may require an ergonomic pad with less material than a user working in a larger or more open workspace.

[0019] In addition to the important benefit of being customizable, the ergonomic pads of the present disclosure can reduce storage space requirements. For example, the ergonomic pads of the present disclosure can be disassembled into more easily storable components. For example, the ergonomic pads of the present disclosure include a bladder that is at least partially filled with a material and is used in this state. When not in use, the bladder and material can be stored separately. Typically, this material is a compressible filler material. Even if a non-compressible material is used, storing the bladder and material separately can reduce storage space compared to the storage space required for the same number of custom support pads, which include support pads of various sizes and shapes.

[0020] Additionally, ergonomic pads can be molded to fit a variety of different work surfaces in multiple workspaces, allowing one ergonomic pad to be appropriate for a variety of work situations.

[0021] For example, a user places an ergonomic pad where it will be used. The user assumes a desired working posture on the placed ergonomic pad and then releases air from the ergonomic pad. As the ergonomic pad is released, it conforms to the shape of the adjacent surface, e.g., the contours of the workspace, the contours of the user's body (e.g., the shape and size of the body or the shape and size of a particular body part), or both. The ergonomic pad is configured to retain its shape until the user re-inflates it. Once re-inflated, the ergonomic pad returns to its soft or moldable state, allowing it to be reused in another workspace or by another user.

[0022] When air is expelled from the ergonomic pad, it becomes relatively firm; expelling more air makes the ergonomic pad even firmer. In its relatively firm state, the ergonomic pad maintains its shape, conforming to a given shape (e.g., the shape of the underlying surface, the shape of the surrounding surface, or the shape of the user's body). The user can adjust the firmness of the ergonomic pad to suit a particular use scenario. For example, to cover a protruding portion of a workspace surface and create a flatter work area, the user can expel more air (making the ergonomic pad firmer). Alternatively, for other situations where the user needs more comfortable (e.g., softer) support, the user can use the ergonomic pad with a less firm feel. Re-infusing the ergonomic pad returns it to its re-moldable state; for example, the ergonomic pad no longer conforms to adjacent surfaces.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of an ergonomic padding system 100 including multiple ergonomic pads 102. In FIG. 1, the ergonomic padding system 100 includes a first ergonomic pad 102A and a second ergonomic pad 102B. Each ergonomic pad 102 includes a bladder 110, a filler material 114 contained within the bladder 110, and one or more ports, such as port 116, that allow air 124 to escape from the bladder 110. The bladder 110 is made of or includes a flexible material, such that the bladder 110 can be molded into a variety of shapes, including, for example, a shape complementary to the surface on which the ergonomic pad 102 is placed.

[0024] The filler material 114 at least partially fills the interior space of the bag 110. Examples of filler materials include granular materials such as solid polymer pellets, hollow polymer pellets, or foam pellets. In other embodiments, other filler materials can be used. For example, in situations where the filler material 114 is not intended to be reused multiple times (e.g., in work environments where the filler material 114 may be damaged or contaminated), a company or user can use a renewable filler material 114 (e.g., shredded straw). The filler material 114 should have voids between its particles so that it can flow and change shape and so that it can retain a particular shape by evacuating air 124 from the bag 110. By way of example, in some embodiments, the void fraction of the filler material 114 is greater than 0.35.

[0025] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the bladder 110 includes a sealable opening 112 (separate from the port 116) that allows a user to add more filler material 114 to the bladder 110 or remove some or all of the filler material 114 from the bladder 110. In this embodiment, the sealable opening 112 provides additional flexibility and customization for the ergonomic pad 102. For example, a smaller user may be able to add more filler material 114 to the ergonomic pad 102 to achieve a more comfortable working posture. In another embodiment, if a user works in a relatively small space, removing some of the filler material 114 from the ergonomic pad 102 may make it easier to position the ergonomic pad 102 in that workspace. Additionally, removing most or all of the filler material 114 from the ergonomic pad 102 may facilitate storage.

[0026] When the sealable opening 112 and port 116 are closed, the bladder 110 is substantially airtight. "Airtight" in this context means that the rate at which air enters and leaves the bladder 110 is negligible given the typical timescale of use of the ergonomic pad 102. For example, the ergonomic pad 102 is intended for use by workers who typically work shifts of less than eight hours and take multiple breaks during those shifts. Thus, in this example, the ergonomic pad 102 only needs to be airtight to maintain its shape for the time between breaks, e.g., approximately two hours. Note that different criteria for determining whether the ergonomic pad 102 is airtight may be used in different situations. Furthermore, the airtightness of the ergonomic pad 102 may decrease over time due to factors such as wear on the seals and damage to the bladder 110.

[0027] Port 116 extends through bladder 110 and includes a valve that restricts airflow in a closed position and allows airflow in an open position. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the valve is a pressure-drive valve 120, such as a diaphragm valve. In this embodiment, the valve is configured to automatically open when the pressure inside bladder 110 is greater than the pressure outside port 116. For example, when vacuum source 106 is connected to and activated at port 116, vacuum source 106 reduces the pressure outside the valve, opening the valve and allowing a portion of air 124 to flow through port 116. The valve closes when the pressure difference is such that the pressure inside bladder 110 is lower than the pressure outside port 116. For example, after vacuum source 106 evacuates a portion of air 124, the pressure inside bladder 110 is lower than the ambient air pressure. In this embodiment, the valve is closed by a pressure differential and the pressure differential is maintained, thereby holding the ergonomic pad 102 in a particular shape. With this valve, after the air 124 is evacuated from the bladder 110, the bladder 110 conforms to a shape at least partially defined by the filler material 114, and the port 116 is disconnected from the vacuum source 106 or the vacuum source 106 is turned off. Thus, the vacuum source 106 does not need to be continuously activated while the ergonomic pad 102 is in use. In some embodiments, the valve can be manually opened to allow the pressure inside the bladder 110 to equalize with atmospheric pressure. For example, such a valve may include a button, switch, or knob that can be manually operated to open the valve.

[0028] The port 116 is configured to be removably connected to the vacuum source 106. For example, the port 116 includes or is connected to a connector 118 configured to connect to the vacuum source 106, another ergonomic pad 102B, or both. In some embodiments, a flexible hose 122 is connected to the port 116, and the connector 118 is connected to the hose 122. For example, in FIG. 1 , the ergonomic pad 102 includes a cover 130 that covers the bladder 110. In such an embodiment, the hose 122 can be stored in the cover 130 (e.g., in a pocket or flap 136) to protect the hose 122 when not in use. When injecting or evacuating air 124 from the bladder 110, the hose 122 can extend from the cover 130. In some embodiments, the hose 122 allows a user to access the port 116 (e.g., to inject or evacuate air 124) regardless of the position or orientation of the ergonomic pad 102. For example, even if the ergonomic pad 102 is positioned so that the port 116 is located below the bag 110 (e.g., out of the user's direct reach), the user can still expel air 124 from the bag 110 by extending the hose 122.

[0029] 1 , the cover 130 includes a plurality of adjoining layers 132, such as a first layer and a second layer, which are adjacent to or abut one another to define an outer surface 134 of the ergonomic pad 102. For example, a first one of the adjoining layers 132 forms the outer surface 134 of a first side of the ergonomic pad 102, and a second one of the adjoining layers 132 forms the outer surface 134 of a second (e.g., opposite) side of the ergonomic pad 102. For example, when the first layer is positioned on the upper side of the bladder 110, the second layer is positioned on the lower side of the bladder 110.

[0030] In some embodiments, the adjacent layers 132 are formed of different materials or have different structures. For example, in some embodiments, the first layer has a first surface texture (e.g., a relatively smooth texture) and the second layer has a second surface texture (e.g., a relatively rough texture). In such embodiments, the second surface may be placed in contact with a work surface to reduce slippage and damage to the ergonomic pad 102 due to its higher durability or coefficient of friction, while the first surface may be placed in contact with a user to provide greater comfort. In some embodiments, the first layer has a first surface tackiness and the second layer has a second surface viscosity, where the first surface viscosity is more adhesive than the second surface viscosity. In such embodiments, the second surface may be placed in contact with a work surface to reduce slippage, and the first surface may be placed in contact with a user to provide greater comfort.

[0031] 1, one or more of the adjacent layers 132 include one or more fasteners 138. The fasteners 138 may be, for example, hook and eye fasteners, snaps, buckles, belts, or other types of fasteners configured to secure one ergonomic pad 102 to another ergonomic pad 102 or to a work surface. In certain embodiments, the fasteners 138 may comprise any number of fasteners, such as, for example, 1 to 20 fasteners, 1 to 8 fasteners, or 2 to 4 fasteners.

[0032] 1, bag 110 is at least partially covered by cover 130. In some embodiments, cover 130 is removable. For example, cover 130 is made of a washable material (e.g., one or more durable fabrics or polymers) such that cover 130 can be removed from bag 110 for cleaning. In some embodiments, bag 110 can be used without cover 130 (e.g., in a configuration that omits cover 130). For example, bag 110 can be configured to include adjacent layer 132, zipper 138, pocket or flap 136, or a combination thereof.

[0033] In some embodiments, each ergonomic pad 102 is configured to cooperate with or be used in conjunction with one or more additional ergonomic pads 102. For example, in FIG. 1 , the ergonomic pad system 100 includes a first ergonomic pad 102A and a second ergonomic pad 102B, and the vacuum source 106 is connected to both the first ergonomic pad 102A and the second ergonomic pad 102B. In other embodiments, the ergonomic pad system 100 includes more than two ergonomic pads 102. When two or more ergonomic pads 102 are used together, they can be connected in fluid communication (e.g., the port 116 of one ergonomic pad 102 can be connected to the port 116 of another ergonomic pad 102), allowing the air 124 in the ergonomic pads 102 to be evacuated simultaneously or in unison. Additionally or alternatively, two or more ergonomic pads 102 may be physically connected (or fastened) to one another, for example, the fasteners 138 of one ergonomic pad 102 may be connected to the fasteners 138 of another ergonomic pad 102 to form a single physical unit.

[0034] Figure 2 illustrates one embodiment of the ergonomic pad system 100 of Figure 1 in use in a workspace 200. In Figure 2, workspace 200 includes several surfaces and objects that limit the space in which user 208 can work. For example, in Figure 2, workspace 200 is limited by ribs 202A, 202B, stringers 204, and walls 206 (e.g., skin panels joined to ribs 202, stringers 204, or both). These ribs 202A, 202B, stringers 204, and walls 206 not only limit the workspace for user 208, but also create irregularities in the surface supporting user 208.

[0035] In FIG. 2 , the user 208 places the ergonomic pad 102 between the ribs 202A and 202B on the stringer 204 and against the wall 206. The user 208 then causes the filler material 111 contained in the bladder 110 to flow in a shape that conforms to (or generally conforms to) each surface it contacts, while also expelling air 124 from the ergonomic pad 102. As the air 124 is expelled from the bladder 110, the bladder 110 compresses the filler material 114, thereby restricting its movement. This allows the ergonomic pad 102 to maintain its shape that conforms to each surface it contacts until air 124 is re-injected into the bladder 110. Additionally, the firmness and / or softness of the ergonomic pad 102 can be adjusted based on the amount of air expelled.

[0036] The user 208 then deactivates (e.g., shuts off, stops, turns off, terminates, etc.) the vacuum source 106 (shown in FIG. 1 ) and performs work in the workspace 200. For example, the user 208 can lean against or rest on the ergonomic pad 102 while working, thereby maintaining a more comfortable posture than resting directly on the ribs 202A, 202B, stringers 204, or walls 206. In addition to improving comfort, the use of the ergonomic pad 102 in the workspace 200 can improve the ergonomic posture of the user 208 while working, reducing the risk of injury at the workplace. It can also reduce the risk of the user slipping or being injured on protruding parts such as the ribs 202A, 202B, stringers 204, or walls 206.

[0037] FIG. 3 illustrates another example of using the ergonomic pad system 100 in a workspace 200. In FIG. 3, the ergonomic pad 102 is molded by a user (e.g., user 208 shown in FIG. 2) to conform to the shape of one or more surfaces in the workspace 200 (e.g., the shape of the stringer 204) and to the body parts of the user 208. In addition, the air in the ergonomic pad 102 is vented, maintaining the shape of the ergonomic pad 102. As a result, even when the user 208 leaves the workspace 200, the ergonomic pad 102 maintains its shape. For example, in FIG. 3, the user 208 kneels on the ergonomic pad 102, venting the air from the ergonomic pad 102. Thus, the ergonomic pad 102 is molded to have depressions 210 corresponding to the user's knees and lower legs. After the ergonomic pad 102 is shaped, even if the user 208 leaves the workspace 200, the ergonomic pad 102 maintains the shape shaped by the user 208 (including the recess 210 and the shape corresponding to the stringer 204).

[0038] 4A and 4B show the ergonomic pad 102 in a conformable state and a stiff state, respectively. As shown in inset 402 of FIG. 4A, in the conformable state, the filler material 114 is loosely packed (e.g., the ergonomic pad 102 contains a significant amount of air in addition to or mixed with the filler material 114). Therefore, in the conformable state, the filler material 114 has bulk properties similar to a fluid (e.g., it flows and deforms easily) because the individual particles of the filler material 114 are free to move relative to one another. In contrast, as shown in inset 404 of FIG. 4B, in the stiffened state, the filler material 114 is tightly packed (e.g., the ergonomic pad 102 contains only a small amount of air 124 in addition to or mixed with the filler material 114). Thus, in its hardened state, the filler material 114 has bulk properties similar to a solid (eg, a tendency to maintain shape) because the individual particles of the filler material 114 are not free to move relative to one another.

[0039] Figure 5 shows details of the ergonomic pad 102 of Figure 1 in one embodiment. Figure 5 shows the cover 130. The removable cover shown in Figure 5 has an opening 504 for inserting the bladder 110. The cover 130 also has an opening 502 for the hose 122 to pass through and extend to the outside, allowing air 124 to escape from the bladder 110 while the cover 130 remains covering the bladder 110.

[0040] 5, the port 116 of the ergonomic pad 102 is connected to two or more connectors 118 via hoses 122. For example, in FIG. 5, the hose 122 is connected to two connectors 118A and 118B. This arrangement of the connectors 118 allows multiple ergonomic pads 102 to be connected together in a daisy chain fashion, allowing multiple ergonomic pads 102 to be evacuated by a single vacuum source 106.

[0041] FIG. 6 illustrates details of one embodiment of the ergonomic pad system 100 of FIG. 1. Specifically, FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment in which two or more ergonomic pads 102A, 102B are connected to each other in fluid communication. In FIG. 6, a first ergonomic pad 102A includes a bladder 110A and a port 116A extending through the bladder 110A. Similarly, a second ergonomic pad 102B includes a second bladder 110B and a second port 116B extending through the bladder 110B. The port 116A is connected to a first hose 122A including a first connector 118A and a second connector 118B. The port 116B is connected to a second hose 122B including a third connector 118C and a fourth connector 118D. In FIG. 6, each connector 118 includes a valve 120, shown in detail in the inset.

[0042] The connectors 118 are configured to mate with one another to place the pouch 110 in fluid communication. For example, as shown in the inset of Figure 6, the connectors 118 may be matable by threads, a friction fit, a clamp and seal arrangement, or other sealable connection (e.g., a barb). Illustratively, in Figure 6, the second connector 118B has female threads and the connector 118C has corresponding male threads, allowing the second connector 118B and the third connector 118C to be interconnected and substantially airtight sealed.

[0043] The valve 120 shown in Figure 6 is a diaphragm valve that includes a diaphragm 606 connected to a support structure 604 of a connector housing 602. The diaphragm 606 is positioned such that when pressure on the outside 608 of the diaphragm 606 is high, the diaphragm 606 closes. Thus, the valve 120 of Figure 6 is positioned to maintain a pressure inside the pouch that is below atmospheric pressure level.

[0044] FIG. 7 illustrates further details of the ergonomic pad system of FIG. 1 in one embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment in which two or more ergonomic pads 102A, 102B are connected to one another in fluid communication. In FIG. 7, the first ergonomic pad 102A includes a first port 116A connected to a first hose 122A and a first connector 118A, and a second port 116B connected to a second hose 122B and a second connector 118B. Similarly, the second ergonomic pad 102B includes a third port 116C connected to a third hose 122C and a third connector 118C, and a fourth port 116D connected to a fourth hose 122D and a fourth connector 118D.

[0045] As shown in Figure 6, the connectors 118 in Figure 7 are configured to mate with one another to provide fluid communication between the respective ergonomic pads 102. For example, in Figure 7, the second connector 118B is threadedly mated with the corresponding third connector 118C.

[0046] FIG. 7 further illustrates certain example fasteners 138. In FIG. 7, a first ergonomic pad 102A includes a first plurality of hook-and-loop fasteners 138A, and a 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 mate with the second plurality of hook-and-loop fasteners 138B. For example, each ergonomic pad 102 may include two hook pieces and two loop pieces, thereby physically connecting the ergonomic pads 102. Additionally or alternatively, the ergonomic pads 102 may be connected via other fasteners. For example, FIG. 7 illustrates two strips 700 connecting the ergonomic pads 102. In this embodiment, strip 700 may include a hook piece that engages with (or sticks to) a loop piece on fastener 138 of ergonomic pad 102. Alternatively, strip 700 may include a loop piece that engages with (or sticks to) a hook piece on fastener 138 of ergonomic pad 102. In yet another alternative embodiment, one of strips 700 may be a hook piece and the other a loop piece, with each strip 700 configured to engage with a corresponding piece on fastener 138 of ergonomic pad 102.

[0047] Figure 8 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of a method 800 of using the ergonomic pad system of Figure 1. Method 800 includes, at 802, placing an ergonomic pad bladder against a surface of a workspace. For example, Figure 2 shows ergonomic pad 102 placed against workspace 200. Placing bladder 110 against the surface of workspace 200 causes material contained within bladder 110 (e.g., filler material 114) to flow into position along the surface.

[0048] The method 800 further includes, at 804, activating a vacuum source in fluid communication with a port in the ergonomic pad to evacuate air from the bladder, thereby conforming the bladder to the shape of the material contained therein and molding both sides of the ergonomic pad to a shape complementary to the surface. For example, after placing the ergonomic pad 102 in the workspace 200, the vacuum source 106 of FIG. 1 is activated to evacuate the air 124 from the bladder 110. Once some of the air 124 has been evacuated, the bladder 110 at least partially conforms to the shape of the filler material 114. The pressure exerted by the bladder 110 on the filler material 114 causes the ergonomic pad 102 to become firmer and retain the shape at least partially defined by the filler material 114.

[0049] In some embodiments, the method 800 further includes connecting the port of the ergonomic pad to a second port of a second ergonomic pad prior to activating the vacuum source. In such embodiments, the vacuum source is connected to a third port of the second ergonomic pad, and activating the vacuum source causes air to be expelled from the bladder through the second ergonomic pad.

[0050] The examples described herein are intended to provide a basic understanding of the configurations of various embodiments. These descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive of all of the elements and features of apparatus and systems employing the configurations or methods described herein. Various other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from this disclosure, and structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, the steps in a method may be performed in an order other than that illustrated, or one or more steps may be omitted. Accordingly, the present disclosure and the figures are to be understood as illustrative and not limiting.

[0051] Additionally, while specific examples have been illustrated and described herein, it will be understood that the specific embodiments disclosed may be substituted with later designed configurations which would achieve the same or similar results. The present disclosure is intended to cover any modifications or variations of the various embodiments subsequently made. Combinations of the above-described embodiments, as well as other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the present disclosure.

[0052] Furthermore, the present disclosure also encompasses embodiments according to the following appendices.

[0053] 1. A bag (110) made of a flexible material; a granular material (114) contained within the pouch and at least partially filling the pouch; and a port (116) connected to the bag and configured to allow air (124) to be evacuated from the bag, the bag including a sealable opening (112) separate from the port for adding or removing the granular material.

[0054] 2. The ergonomic pad of claim 1, wherein the port includes a pressure-activated valve (120) configured to maintain a pressure level within the bag after air has been expelled through the port.

[0055] 3. The ergonomic pad of claim 2, wherein the pressure-activated valve is manually openable to equalize the pressure level inside the bladder with an ambient pressure level.

[0056] 4. An ergonomic pad as described in any one of appendixes 1 to 3, wherein the port is configured to be removably connected to a vacuum source (106) to facilitate the evacuation of air from the bag.

[0057] 5. An ergonomic pad as described in any one of appendices 1 to 4, wherein the pouch conforms at least in part to a shape defined by the granular material upon expulsion of air from the pouch, and the port and the sealable opening are sufficiently airtight to allow the pouch to retain its shape after the port is disconnected from a vacuum source.

[0058] 6. An ergonomic pad as described in any one of appendices 1 to 5, further comprising an adjacent layer (132) defining an outer surface (134) of the bag or the bag cover (130), the adjacent layer including a first layer and a second layer, the first layer and the second layer being disposed on opposite sides of the bag such that when the first layer is positioned on the upper side of the bag, the second layer is positioned on the lower side of the bag.

[0059] 7. The ergonomic pad according to claim 6, wherein the cover is removable.

[0060] 8. The ergonomic pad of claim 7, wherein the cover is made of a washable material.

[0061] 9. The ergonomic pad of claim 6 or 7, wherein at least one of the first layer or the second layer includes one or more fasteners (138) for securing two or more ergonomic pads to one another, the one or more fasteners being selected from hook and loop fasteners, hook-and-eye fasteners, snaps, buckles, or belts.

[0062] 10. The ergonomic pad of claim 9, wherein the one or more fasteners consist of 1 to 8 fasteners.

[0063] 11. The ergonomic pad of claim 9, wherein the one or more fasteners include a total of 1 to 8 hook and loop pieces.

[0064] 12. An ergonomic pad as described in any one of Appendices 6 to 11, wherein the first layer has a first surface texture and the second layer has a second surface texture, and the first surface texture is smoother than the second surface texture.

[0065] 13. An ergonomic pad according to any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein the first layer has a first surface viscosity and the second layer has a second surface viscosity, and the first surface viscosity is more viscous than the second surface viscosity.

[0066] 14. An ergonomic pad as described in any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a removable cover that at least partially covers the pouch, and the port is accessible through the removable cover.

[0067] 15. An ergonomic pad according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the granular material comprises one or more of solid polymer pellets, hollow polymer pellets, or foam pellets.

[0068] 16. An ergonomic pad as described in any one of appendices 1 to 15, further comprising a flexible hose (122) connected to the port, the flexible hose including a connector (118) configured to allow the port to be connected to a vacuum source regardless of the position and orientation of the bag.

[0069] 17. The ergonomic pad of claim 16, further comprising a pocket or flap (136) configured to hold the flexible hose.

[0070] 18. The ergonomic pad of claim 16 or 17, further comprising a second port (122B) connected to the pouch and a second flexible hose (122B) connected to the second port, the second flexible hose including a second connector (122B), the second connector configured to connect to a second pouch (110B), and allowing the vacuum source connected to the port to evacuate air from the pouch and the second pouch through the port.

[0071] 19. A first ergonomic pad (102A) and a second ergonomic pad (102B), 1. Ergonomic pad A first bag body (110A), a first amount of filler material (114) contained within the first pouch, the filler material having a porosity greater than 0.35; a first port (116A) connected to the first bag and configured to allow air to be evacuated from the first bag; a first connector (118B) connected to the first port; The second ergonomic pad A second bag body (110B), a second amount of the filler material contained within the second pouch; a second port (116B) connected to the second bladder, the second port configured to allow air to be evacuated from the second bladder; an ergonomic pad system (100) including a second connector (118C) connected to the second port, the second connector being connected to the first connector and configured to couple the first pouch and the second pouch;

[0072] 20. The ergonomic pad system of claim 19, further comprising a hose (122) connected to the first port and the second port and configured to enable air to be exhausted from the second bag and the first bag simultaneously.

[0073] 21. The ergonomic pad system of claim 20, further comprising a third port (188D) connected to the second bag, the third port configured to be connected to a vacuum source (106) to evacuate air from the second bag and the first bag.

[0074] 22. Placing the bladder (110) of the ergonomic pad (102) against a surface in the workspace (200), and placing the bladder against the surface to cause the material (114) contained within the bladder to flow (602) into position along the surface; and activating a vacuum source (106) in fluid communication with a port (116) of the ergonomic pad to evacuate air from the bladder, thereby causing the bladder to conform to the shape of the material and molding (604) both sides of the ergonomic pad to a shape complementary to the surface.

[0075] 23. The method of claim 22, further comprising connecting the port of the ergonomic pad to a second port (116B) of a second ergonomic pad (102B), wherein the vacuum source is connected to a third port of the second ergonomic pad, and wherein air expelled from the bag by activating the vacuum source passes through the second ergonomic pad.

[0076] The Abstract of the Disclosure is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Additionally, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together in a single embodiment or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of simplifying the disclosure. The described examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the disclosure. It will be understood that many modifications and variations are possible in accordance with the principles of the disclosure. As reflected in the appended claims, the subject matter of the claims may relate to any number of all features of the disclosed embodiments. Accordingly, the scope of the disclosure is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An ergonomic pad that can be used repeatedly to support a user in each of different workspaces, comprising: A bag body formed of a flexible material; a granular material contained within the pouch and at least partially filling the pouch; a port connected to the bag and configured to allow air to be evacuated from the bag, thereby temporarily retaining the shape of the bag filled with the granular material until air is reintroduced into the bag, wherein the bag includes a sealable opening separate from the port for adding or removing the granular material, and the filled granular material is maintained within the bag while the user is working in each workspace; An ergonomic pad, wherein the bag is covered with a cover, the cover including a first layer located on a first side of the bag and a second layer located on a second side of the bag opposite the first side, the first layer having a smooth surface characteristic that comes into contact with the user, and the second layer having a surface characteristic with a higher coefficient of friction than the first layer, thereby being configured to prevent slipping when in contact with a work surface.

2. 10. The ergonomic pad of claim 1, wherein the port includes a pressure-activated valve configured to maintain a pressure level within the bladder after air is expelled through the port.

3. 3. The ergonomic pad of claim 1 or 2, wherein the port is configured to be removably connected to a vacuum source to facilitate evacuation of air from the bladder.

4. 4. An ergonomic pad according to claim 1, wherein the bag conforms at least in part to a shape defined by the granular material upon expulsion of air from the bag, and the port and the sealable opening are sufficiently airtight so that the bag retains its shape after the port is disconnected from a vacuum source.

5. 5. The ergonomic pad of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first layer or the second layer includes one or more fasteners for securing two or more ergonomic pads together, the one or more fasteners being selected from hook and loop fasteners, hook-and-eye fasteners, snaps, buckles, or belts.

6. An ergonomic pad according to any preceding claim, wherein the granular material comprises one or more of solid polymer pellets, hollow polymer pellets, or foam pellets.

7. 7. The ergonomic pad of claim 1, further comprising a flexible hose connected to the port, the flexible hose including a connector configured to allow the port to be connected to a vacuum source regardless of the position and orientation of the bag.

8. 8. The ergonomic pad of claim 7, further comprising: a second port connected to the bladder; and a second flexible hose connected to the second port, the second flexible hose including a second connector configured to connect to a second bladder, wherein the vacuum source connected to the port allows air to be evacuated from the bladder and the second bladder through the port.

9. An ergonomic pad system that can be used repeatedly to support a user in each of different workspaces, comprising: a first ergonomic pad and a second ergonomic pad; The first ergonomic pad comprises: A first bag body; a first amount of filler material contained within the first pouch, the filler material having a porosity greater than 0.35; a first port connected to the first bag, the first port configured to allow air to be evacuated from the first bag, thereby temporarily retaining the shape of the first bag filled with the first quantity of granular material until air is reintroduced into the first bag; a first connector connected to the first port; The second ergonomic pad comprises: A second bag body; a second amount of the filler material contained within the second pouch; a second port connected to the second bag, the second port configured to allow air to be evacuated from the second bag, thereby temporarily retaining the shape of the second bag filled with the second amount of granular material until air is reintroduced into the second bag; a second connector connected to the second port, the second connector being configured to connect to the first connector and couple the first bag and the second bag together, wherein the filled granular material is retained within each of the first and second bags while the user is working in each of the workspaces; an ergonomic pad system, wherein each of the first bag and the second bag is covered with a cover, the cover including a first layer located on a first side of each of the bags and a second layer located on a second side of each of the bags opposite the first side, the first layer having a smooth surface characteristic that comes into contact with the user; the bags are covered with a cover, the cover including a first layer located on a first side of each of the bags and a second layer located on a second side of each of the bags opposite the first side, the first layer having a smooth surface characteristic that comes into contact with the user, and the second layer having a surface characteristic with a higher coefficient of friction than the first layer.

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