mattress

Abstract

To provide a mattress for reducing a difference of a body pressure dispersion effect to be generated depending on a use direction when a user applies a body weight.SOLUTION: A mattress 1 has a predetermined thickness in a thickness direction and a front surface 2 is extended in a plane direction orthogonal to the thickness direction. In the thickness direction, the mattress has a plurality of projections 3 where three layers being the first layers 31, the second layers 32, and the third layer 33 are laminated from the front surface 2. The projections 3 are consecutively formed in the plane direction. In the projections 3, the first layers 31 are consecutively arranged and the second layers 32 have density and / or hardness lower than those of the first layers 31 and the third layer 33. The first layers 31 may have regular projections / recessions in the thickness direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a mattress that distributes the body pressure of a user. [Background technology]

[0002] Mattresses that support a user while appropriately distributing body pressure at various parts of the user's body have been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 describes the following cushioning material: The cushioning material in Patent Document 1 is a three-layer sheet formed by laminating and bonding low-hardness urethane foam layers to both sides of a high-hardness urethane foam layer and integrating them with adhesive, and then profiling the sheet to reach the low-hardness urethane foam layers on both sides. The convex portions are characterized by the high-hardness urethane foam layers sandwiched between adhesive layers positioned at the midpoint in the height direction. The cushioning material has alternating convex and concave portions. The low-hardness urethane foam layers laminated on both sides of the high-hardness urethane foam layer are bonded with adhesive applied to the adhesive surfaces of each layer, and a thin adhesive-containing layer with a higher hardness than the high-hardness urethane foam layer is formed on the adhesive surface at the adhesive area between the two layers. Air vents are provided through the concave portions formed by the profiling process, penetrating the thickness direction.

[0003] According to this document, the central part of the cushion material in the height direction of the formed convex portion becomes a high-hardness urethane foam layer, and when a sleeper lies on the cushion material, the convex portion does not buckle or collapse even when it receives the sleeper's weight, but rather pushes up the sleeper, thereby providing a good massage effect, and it is described as being possible to obtain a cushion material with good body pressure distribution and little residual strain. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-148819 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the cushioning material of the conventional example shown in Patent Document 1 has a surface made of a low-hardness urethane foam layer, which means that it is easily compressed by the weight of the sleeper and the convex parts become flat, reducing the body pressure distribution effect.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The object of the present invention is to solve the problems of the prior art and to provide a mattress that has a body pressure distribution effect when a user lies down on it. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A mattress according to one aspect of the present invention has a predetermined thickness in the thickness direction, a surface that extends in a plane perpendicular to the thickness direction, and a plurality of ridges in the thickness direction, each of which is formed by stacking three layers, a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer, from the surface, the ridges being formed continuously in the plane direction, the first layer being continuous in the ridges, and the second layer having a lower density and / or lower hardness than the first layer and the third layer.

[0008] According to this, in the convex ribs of the mattress of the present invention, the second layer has a lower density and / or hardness than the first and third layers, so the second layer is compressed first by the user's weight, and the first layer is compressed after the second layer is compressed. Furthermore, because the first layer is continuous with the convex ribs, the convex shape is maintained during the compression process of the mattress, providing a body pressure distribution effect.

[0009] The mattress may also have the first layer having regular irregularities in the thickness direction, in which case the first layer has the regular irregularities, which provide a body pressure distribution effect through point contact and maintain the acupressure effect.

[0010] Furthermore, the mattress may have the ridges bent regularly in the planar direction, which reduces the difference in body pressure distribution effect depending on the direction of pressure when the weight of the user is applied to the mattress.

[0011] Furthermore, the ridges of the mattress may have regular irregularities in the planar direction. In this case, the mattress has a better body pressure distribution effect, as the ridges are less likely to collapse due to the weight of the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view partially showing a mattress 1a according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the convex strips 3 in the mattress 1a of the first embodiment of the present invention, taken in the second direction. [Figure 3] This is a diagram showing a portion of a mattress 1b of a second embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a plan view showing a portion of the convex ribs 3b and concave ribs 4b in detail, and (b) is an oblique view of one of the convex ribs 3b. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the entire mattress 1c according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a diagram showing in detail a portion of the convex ribs 3c and concave ribs 4c in a mattress 1c of a third embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a plan view and (b) is an oblique view of one of the convex ribs 3c. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing in detail a portion of the ridges 3d and grooves 4d in a mattress 1d according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a plan view and (b) is a perspective view of one of the ridges 3d. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing in detail a portion of a ridge 3e and a groove 4e in a mattress 1e according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing in detail a portion of a ridge 3f and a groove 4f in a mattress 1f according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one of the protrusions 3g in a mattress 1g according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of one of the protrusions 3h in a mattress 1h according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11]13A and 13B are diagrams showing in detail a portion of the ridges 3j and grooves 4j of a mattress 1j according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a plan view and (b) is a perspective view of one of the ridges 3j. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one of the protrusions 3k in a mattress 1k according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of one of the protrusions 3m in a mattress 1m according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 10 is a graph showing the results of a comparative evaluation of a mattress 1d of the present invention and a mattress with an untreated surface, the surface 2 of which has not been treated. [Figure 15] The results of a comparative evaluation of the mattress 1d of the present invention and a mattress with an untreated surface, the surface 2 of which has not been treated, are summarized below in terms of the amount of sinking. [Figure 16] The results of a comparative evaluation of a mattress 1d of the present invention and a mattress with an untreated surface 2 are summarized in terms of contact area and average pressure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] A mattress 1 embodying the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the description of the embodiment of the invention and the drawings referred to are used to explain the technical features that may be adopted by the present invention. The present invention is not limited thereto. The configurations shown in the drawings are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0014] <Configuration common to all embodiments> The following describes the configuration of the mattress 1 according to the present invention, which is common to all embodiments. The configuration specific to each embodiment will be described later. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the mattress 1 has a predetermined thickness in the thickness direction, and the surface 2 extends in a planar direction (horizontal direction) perpendicular to the thickness direction. The thickness direction includes multiple ridges 3, each of which is composed of three layers: a first layer 31, a second layer 32, and a third layer 33 stacked from the surface 2. The ridges 3 are formed continuously in the planar direction. In the ridges 3, the first layer 31 is continuously connected. Furthermore, the second layer 32 is also continuously connected, and the third layer 33 is also continuously connected. The second layer 32 has a lower density and / or a lower hardness than the first layer 31 and the third layer 33. As shown in FIG. 1, the planar direction (horizontal direction) extends in a first direction and a second direction.

[0015] Next, the direction in which the ridges 3 are formed will be described. In the example shown in FIG. 4, which will be described later, the mattress 1 has a predetermined thickness in the thickness direction, a surface 2 formed in the planar direction (horizontal plane direction), and is made of a resin foam in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The resin foam is, for example, urethane foam. The surface 2 is a rectangle formed in the longitudinal and lateral directions, and the first direction is parallel to the lateral direction. In addition to the example shown in FIG. 4, the first direction may be parallel to the longitudinal direction, or may be inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the lateral direction. Alternatively, the mattress 1 may have a surface 2 that is not only rectangular, but also any other shape such as a square or circle.

[0016] The thickness direction structure of the mattress 1 will be explained. An example in which the mattress 1 is formed from urethane foam will be explained. As shown in FIG. 1 as an example, the mattress 1 has a first layer 31, a second layer 32, and a third layer 33 laminated continuously in the direction in which the ridges 3 are aligned. The density of each layer of urethane foam will be explained. The density of the first layer 31 and the third layer 33 is 20 kg / m 3 to 90 kg / m 3 up to 24 kg / m 3 to 70 kg / m 3 The density of the second layer 32 is 18 kg / m 3 to 80 kg / m 3 up to 20 kg / m3 to 60 kg / m 3 Within the above range, the densities of the first layer 31 and the third layer 33 are set on the condition that they are higher than the density of the second layer 32. For example, the first layer 31 and the third layer 33 may have a density of 40 kg / m 3 and the second layer 32 is 30 kg / m 3 The density is measured according to JIS K7222.

[0017] Next, the hardness of each layer will be described. As an example, the hardness of each layer is as follows: The hardness of the first layer 31 and the third layer 33 ranges from 100 N to 300 N, and the hardness of the second layer 32 ranges from 40 N to 220 N. Note that within the above ranges, the hardness of the first layer 31 and the third layer 33 is set on the condition that it is higher than the hardness of the second layer 32. The hardness of each layer is measured according to JIS K6400-2 6.7D method.

[0018] The convex ribs 3 have convex straight lines and / or curved lines and / or bent portions 6 formed continuously in the planar direction. A detailed configuration will be described later using each embodiment as an example. The configuration of the convex ribs 3 and the concave ribs 4 in the thickness direction will be described with reference to FIG. 2. In the thickness direction, the side facing the surface 2 is the upper side and the opposite side is the lower side, and a support layer 17 is formed below the convex ribs 3 and the concave ribs 4. The convex ribs 3 have an apex 10 that protrudes upward in the thickness direction, and are formed so as to slope from the bottom 9, which is the most recessed part of the concave ribs 4, toward the apex 10.

[0019] For example, two mattresses 1 with the same surface shape are manufactured simultaneously from one sheet material using a wave-splitting device. The wave-splitting device has multiple disks stacked in the axial direction, a roller that can rotate around the axis, and cutting means that cuts the sheet material that is the material for the mattress 1. A detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0020] As shown in Figure 2, when the convex ribs 3 are cut in the second direction, the convex ribs 3 and the concave ribs 4 appear alternately. The distance P2 between the convex ribs 3 is equal to the distance P3 between the concave ribs 4. In the convex ribs 3, the tops 10 are formed by the first layer 31, the second layer 32 is included in the convex ribs 3, and part of the convex ribs 3 and the support layer 17 are formed by the third layer 33. Note that Figure 2 shows the mattress 1a of the first embodiment as an example, but the other embodiments are similar.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 2, the overall height of the ridges 3 in the thickness direction is W1, and the height of the support layer 17 is W2. In the ridges 3, the height of the first layer 31 is 31h, the height of the second layer 32 is 32h, and the height of the third layer 33 is 33h. When the mattress 1 is manufactured using the above-described manufacturing method, the first layer 31 and the third layer 33 including the support layer 17 are made of the same material, and the heights 31h and 33h can be approximately equal. For example, the heights 31h and 33h are equal and range from 5 mm to 40 mm, preferably from 10 mm to 30 mm. Furthermore, the height 32h is range from 5 mm to 40 mm, more preferably from 10 mm to 30 mm. The height W1 of the ridges 3 and the height W2 of the support layer 17 can be set in a ratio of 1:5 to 5:1.

[0022] Next, the rebound resilience of each layer will be described. The second layer 32 may have a lower rebound resilience than the first layer 31 and the third layer 33. The rebound resilience of each layer is set in the range of 3% to 70%. For example, the rebound resilience of the first layer 31 and the third layer 33 is in the range of 15% to 60%, and the rebound resilience of the second layer 32 is in the range of 5% to 30%. Note that this range includes cases where the rebound resilience of the second layer 32 is higher than the rebound resilience of the first layer 31 and the third layer 33, but the rebound resilience of the second layer 32 is set within a range that satisfies the condition that it is lower than the rebound resilience of the first layer 31 and the third layer 33. More preferably, the rebound resilience of the first layer 31 and the third layer 33 is in the range of 40% to 50%, and the rebound resilience of the second layer 32 is in the range of 18% to 25%. The rebound resilience of each layer is measured in accordance with JIS 6400-3.

[0023] <Effects common to all embodiments> The configuration of the mattress 1 described above provides the following advantages. In the convex ribs 3 of the mattress 1, the second layer 32 has a lower density and / or hardness than the first layer 31 and the third layer 33. Therefore, the second layer 32 is compressed first by the weight of the user, and the first layer 31 is compressed after the second layer 32 is compressed. Furthermore, because the first layer 31 is continuous with the convex ribs 3, the convex shape is maintained during the compression process of the mattress 1, providing a body pressure distribution effect.

[0024] Furthermore, the first direction may be parallel to the short-side direction, as shown in Figure 4. In this case, by forming the grooves 4 in the short-side direction, when the user turns over in their sleep, the material of the mattress 1 bends and air tends to move, and air can easily escape in the short-side direction, improving breathability.

[0025] Furthermore, although not shown, the first direction may be parallel to the longitudinal direction. In this case, since the protrusions 3 are formed in the longitudinal direction, they are more likely to deform along the longitudinal direction when the user's weight is applied, making it easier for the user to turn over in bed. Furthermore, the first direction may be formed at a predetermined angle with respect to the lateral direction. In this case, the mattress 1 can be arranged and used along the first direction. Alternatively, when multiple mattresses 1 are used in a row in the longitudinal direction, the first directions of adjacent mattresses 1 may be in different directions. Furthermore, if the surface 2 of the mattress 1 is square or circular, the user can freely change the orientation of the mattress 1 when using it.

[0026] The second layer 32 may also have a lower resilience than the first layer 31 and the third layer 33. In this case, when the weight of the user is applied to the mattress 1, the second layer 32 of the three layers begins to compress first, thereby preventing the body from sinking excessively.

[0027] The mattress 1 according to the aspects of the present invention has been described above, but may further include components specific to each embodiment described below.

[0028] <<Specific configurations and effects of the mattress 1 of each embodiment>> Next, the configuration and effects of the mattress 1 of each embodiment according to the aspects of the present invention will be explained. The configuration and effects common to each embodiment that have already been explained will not be explained again. Elements with similar functions will be given the same reference numerals in each drawing, and when the shape, etc., differs between embodiments, a lowercase letter will be added to the end of the reference numeral to indicate an element unique to each embodiment.

[0029] <Configuration of mattress 1a of first embodiment> The configuration of a mattress 1a of a first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. As shown in Figure 1, the convex strips 3a of the mattress 1a are formed in continuous straight lines in a first direction, and the convex strips 3a and concave strips 4a are formed alternately in a second direction. The top portion 10 is formed continuously and without irregularities in the thickness direction, and the first layer 31 is formed with a constant thickness.

[0030] <Effects of the mattress 1a configuration> The configuration of the mattress 1a described above provides the following advantages. As shown in Figure 1, the ridges 3a are formed linearly in a first direction, which allows air to move more easily as the material of the mattress 1a flexes during use by the user, improving breathability by allowing air to escape more easily in the first direction. For example, if the first direction is oriented in a direction that intersects with the user's height, air can escape more easily in the first direction when the user turns over in their sleep.

[0031] <Configuration and Effects of Mattress 1b of Second Embodiment> Next, the configuration and effects of a mattress 1b of a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 3 etc. Note that when describing configurations common to other embodiments, it will be referred to as mattress 1b etc. As shown in Figure 3(b) etc., in mattress 1b etc., the first layer 31 has regular unevenness in the thickness direction. The unevenness is formed by convex portions 11 and concave portions 12. The first layer 31 is formed continuously with its thickness varying due to the unevenness. The first layer 31, second layer 32, and third layer 33 are formed continuously in all directions in which the convex ribs 3b etc. are connected. The convex portions 11 have the same height along the direction in which the convex ribs 3 etc. are connected. As shown in Figure 3(a), convex ribs 3 etc. and concave ribs 4 etc. are formed alternately in the second direction.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3 and other figures, the ridges 3b and the like have regular unevenness in the planar direction. The unevenness is formed by planar convex portions 13 that bulge in the planar direction and planar concave portions 14 that are recessed in the planar direction. The planar convex portions 13 are formed in the parts of the ridges 3b and the like where the convex portions 11 are formed. The planar concave portions 14 are formed between the convex portions 11 in the planar direction. The width of the ridges 3b regularly changes, widening and narrowing, in a horizontal cross section at a certain height in the thickness direction.

[0033] The configuration described above is common to the mattress 1b of the second embodiment, the mattress 1d of the fourth embodiment, the mattress 1e of the fifth embodiment, and the mattresses 1g to 1m of the seventh embodiment. The mattresses 1b and the like described here include the mattress 1d of the fourth embodiment, the mattress 1e of the fifth embodiment, and the mattresses 1g to 1m of the seventh embodiment, in addition to the mattress 1b of the second embodiment. The convex ribs 3b and the like include the convex ribs 3b, 3d, 3e, 3g, 3h, 3j, 3k, and 3m of the corresponding embodiments. The concave ribs 4 include the concave ribs 4b, 4d, 4e, 4g, 4h, 4j, 4k, and 4m. The concave ribs 4g, 4h, 4k, and 4m are not shown.

[0034] The configuration of the mattress 1b, etc. described above provides the following effects. As shown in Figure 3, etc., the first layer 31 of the mattress 1b, etc., has regular concaves and convexes in the thickness direction. Because the convex portions 11 are formed by the first layer 31, the convex shape is maintained during the process of compression of the mattress 1b, etc. Therefore, because the first layer 31 has regular convexities and convexities, it has the effect of dispersing body pressure through point contact when the user lies down.

[0035] 3 and other figures, the ridges 3b and the like have unevenness in the planar direction, which reduces the collapse of the ridges 3b and the like due to the weight of the user, thereby providing a more effective body pressure distribution. That is, the planar ridges 13 are formed at the positions of the ridges 11 in the planar direction, which reduces the buckling of the ridges 11 due to the weight of the user. This further enhances the body pressure distribution effect.

[0036] <Configuration of the mattress 1c of the third embodiment in common with others> Next, the configuration of a mattress 1c of a third embodiment will be described. When describing configurations common to other embodiments, the mattress will be referred to as mattress 1c, etc. As shown in FIG. 4 and other examples, the convex strips 3c, etc. of mattress 1c, etc. are regularly curved in the planar direction. The convex strips 3c, etc. are formed in a first direction, and the convex strips 3c, etc. and the concave strips 4c, etc. are alternately formed in a second direction.

[0037] In the convex ribs 3c, etc., first linear portions 5c, etc., which are straight or curved, and bent portions 6c, etc., are alternately connected in the planar direction to form V-shaped portions 7. The V-shaped portions 7 are connected in the first direction of the planar direction to form a continuous W-shape.

[0038] The region inside the V-shaped portion 7 is defined as a V-shaped region 8. The V-shaped region 8 is the region shown by hatching in Fig. 5 etc. At least a portion of the bent portion 6c etc. is arranged in the V-shaped region 8 of another convex stripe 3c etc. adjacent to it in the second direction.

[0039] 5, in the V-shaped portion 7, the angle θ formed by the two first line portions 5c etc. sandwiching the bent portion 6c etc. is preferably in the range of 60° to 120°. The angle θ is more preferably in the range of 70° to 110°, and further preferably in the range of 80° to 100°.

[0040] As shown in Figure 4, in the ridges 3c of the mattress 1c, adjacent bends 6c are spaced a predetermined distance P1 apart in the first direction, and adjacent ridges 3c are spaced a predetermined distance P2 apart in the second direction. The distances P1 and P2 are set so as to appropriately distribute body pressure when the weight of the user is applied.

[0041] The angle θ must be within an appropriate range so that the ridges 3c, etc. are formed while maintaining the predetermined intervals P1 and P2. If the angle θ is smaller than 60°, the interval P2 becomes longer when the interval P1 is used as the reference. Alternatively, when the interval P2 is used as the reference, the interval P1 becomes shorter, reducing the area of ​​the V-shaped region 8 and making it difficult to arrange the bent portions 6c, etc. of other ridges 3c, etc. adjacent in the second direction, in the V-shaped region 8. In this case, the repulsive force of the ridges 3c, etc. against the pressure applied in the first direction by the user's weight becomes smaller.

[0042] If the angle θ is greater than 120°, the distance P2 becomes shorter when the distance P1 is used as the reference. Alternatively, the distance P1 becomes longer when the distance P2 is used as the reference. The ridges 3c, etc. become closer to being parallel to the first direction. In this case, the repulsive force of the ridges 3c, etc. against the pressure applied in the second direction by the user's weight becomes smaller. If the angle θ exceeds the appropriate range of 60° to 120°, the repulsive force will differ depending on the direction of the pressure generated by the user's weight. Therefore, the angle θ is preferably in the range of 60° to 120° to ensure the body pressure distribution effect when the user's weight is applied.

[0043] Furthermore, if the angle θ is limited to the range of 70° to 110°, the difference in repulsive force depending on the direction of pressure caused by the user's weight is further reduced. Therefore, it is more desirable to set the angle θ in the range of 70° to 110°. Furthermore, it is particularly desirable to set the angle θ in the range of 80° to 100°, as this further reduces the difference in repulsive force depending on the direction of pressure.

[0044] The configuration described above is common to mattress 1c of the third embodiment through mattress 1m of the eleventh embodiment. Here, mattress 1c, etc. includes mattress 1c of the third embodiment through mattress 1m of the eleventh embodiment. Convex ribs 3c, etc. include convex ribs 3c of mattress 1c through convex ribs 3m of mattress 1m, and concave ribs 4c, etc. include concave ribs 4c of mattress 1c through concave ribs 4m of mattress 1m. First line portions 5c, etc. include first line portions 5c of mattress 1c through first line portions 5m of mattress 1m, and bent portions 6c, etc. include bent portions 6c of mattress 1c through bent portion 6m of mattress 1m.

[0045] <Effects of the common configuration of the mattress 1c of the third embodiment> The configuration common to mattresses 1c of the third embodiment through mattress 1m of the eleventh embodiment described above provides the following effects: As shown in Figure 4 and other figures, convex strips 3c and the like are regularly curved in the planar direction, which not only provides a body pressure distribution effect when the weight of the user is applied, but also reduces the difference in body pressure distribution effect depending on the direction of the pressure.

[0046] Explaining in more detail, as shown in Figure 4 and other figures, the convex strips 3c and the like of the mattress 1c and the like are formed in a planar direction by alternating straight or curved first line portions 5c and bent portions 6c, etc., to form V-shaped portions 7, which are connected in a first direction in the planar direction to form the convex strips 3c and the like in a W-shape. Therefore, when a user applies weight to the mattress 1, the convex strips 3c and the like deform in both the first and second directions and then return to their original shape. Therefore, the mattress 1 exhibits a body pressure distribution effect and can reduce the difference in body pressure distribution effect caused by the direction of pressure.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 5(b) and other figures, the first layer 31 to the third layer 33 are laminated continuously at least partially in the direction in which the ridges 3c and other protrusions are arranged. The first layer 31 forms a W-shaped line along the direction in which the ridges 3c and other protrusions are arranged, continuously contacting the user and providing an acupressure effect. The second layer 32 has a lower density and / or hardness than the first layer 31, so that when the user's weight is applied, compression begins from the second layer 32, thereby mitigating the wear of the first layer 31. Furthermore, although the peaks 10 of the ridges 3c and other protrusions are frequently compressed and deformed by use by the user, because they are formed by the first layer 31, deterioration of the peaks 10 due to wear can be reduced.

[0048] Furthermore, at least a portion of the bent portions 6c, etc. of the mattress 1 is arranged in the V-shaped regions 8 of other adjacent ridges 3c, etc. in the second direction, so that when pressure is applied in the second direction by the weight of the user, the plurality of ridges 3c, etc. work together to suppress tilting, thereby further enhancing the effect of dispersing body pressure.

[0049] In addition, by setting the angle θ formed by the two first line portions 5c etc. in the V-shaped portion 7 of the ridge 3c etc. to a range of 60° to 120°, it is possible to reduce the difference in the body pressure distribution effect depending on the direction of pressure when the weight of the user is applied. Furthermore, by setting the angle θ to a range of 80° to 110°, it is possible to further reduce the difference in the body pressure distribution effect when pressure is applied from either the first direction or the second direction.

[0050] <Configuration unique to the mattress 1c of the third embodiment> Next, a configuration unique to the mattress 1c of the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. As shown in Figure 5(a), the convex rib 3c of the mattress 1c has a V-shaped portion 7 formed by two straight first line portions 5c and a bent portion 6c. The peak portion 10 is straight, without any irregularities, as in the mattress 1a. In the example shown in Figure 5, the V-shaped portion 7 has a V-shaped region 8 surrounded by the bent portion 6, the two first line portions 5c, and the imaginary line L2, which is an isosceles triangle. Note that the lengths of the two first line portions 5c may be different, and the V-shaped region 8 may be a triangle other than an isosceles triangle.

[0051] The ridges 3c have the following relationship with other ridges 3c adjacent to them in the second direction: The bent portions 6 are disposed inside the V-shaped regions 8 adjacent to them in the second direction. Specifically, in the ridges 3c and the other ridges 3c adjacent to them in the second direction, the imaginary line L1 extending in the first direction alternately intersects the bent portions 6c of the ridges 3c and the bent portions 6c of the other ridges 3c. For example, the imaginary line L1 intersecting with the arc centers Rc of the bent portions 6 of the ridges 3c alternately intersects with the arc centers Rc of the bent portions 6 of the other ridges 3c. As shown in FIG. 5(b), the apexes 10, which are the tips in the thickness direction of the ridges 3c, are at the same height along the direction in which the ridges 3c are connected.

[0052] <Effects of the Configuration Unique to the Mattress 1c of the Third Embodiment> The configuration of mattress 1c described above provides the following effects: In addition to the common effects already described, mattress 1c has a series of simply shaped convex ridges 3c, so when the user lies down, top portion 10 comes into uniform contact with the user, providing a body pressure distribution effect.

[0053] <Configuration of mattress 1d of fourth embodiment> Next, the configuration of a mattress 1d of a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 6. As shown in Figure 6(a), similar to mattress 1c, mattress 1d has a V-shaped portion 7 formed by two first linear portions 5d each consisting of a straight line and a bent portion 6d in each ridge 3d. At an apex 10, which is the tip in the thickness direction, each ridge 3d has alternately formed convex portions 11 and concave portions 12 in the direction in which the ridges 3d extend. First convex portions 11a of the ridges 11 are formed in the bent portion 6d. Between this ridge 3d and another ridge 3d adjacent to it in the second direction, an imaginary line L1 extending in the first direction alternately intersects with the first convex portions 11a of that ridge 3d and the first convex portions 11a of the other ridges 3d.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 6(b), convex portions 11 and concave portions 12 are alternately formed at approximately equal intervals on the top 10 of the convex streak 3d. The convex portions 11 consist of first convex portions 11a formed on the bent portions 6d and second convex portions 11b formed on the convex streak 3d other than the bent portions 6d. In the example shown in FIG. 6, four convex portions 11 are formed on one first linear portion 5d. The number of convex portions 11 is not limited to four, and may be four or more or four or less.

[0055] As shown in Figure 6(a), the portion of the convex rib 3d where the convex portion 11 is formed bulges in the planar direction to form the planar convex portion 13. The angle θ formed by the two first line portions 5d sandwiching the bent portion 6d is defined as the angle between the straight lines connecting the first convex portions 11a.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 6(a), the first convex portion 11a formed in the bent portion 6d is disposed inside the V-shaped region 8. In the example shown in FIG. 6(a), the V-shaped portion 7 has a V-shaped region 8 surrounded by the bent portion 6d, the two first line portions 5d, and the imaginary line L2, which is an isosceles triangle. Note that the lengths of the two first line portions 5d may be different, and the V-shaped region 8 may be a triangle other than an isosceles triangle. Furthermore, the imaginary line L1 extending in the first direction is not limited to the first convex portion 11a, but alternately intersects the bent portion 6d of the convex streak 3d and the bent portions 6d of other convex streaks 3d adjacent in the second direction.

[0057] Next, the configuration of the ridges 3d in the thickness direction will be described with reference to Figure 6(b). The ridges 11, consisting of the first ridges 11a and the second ridges 11b, and the recesses 12 are formed by the first layer 31. The first ridges 11a and the second ridges 11b of the ridges 3d are at the same height along the direction in which the ridges 3d extend. This also applies to the mattress 1e of the fifth embodiment, which is another embodiment, and the mattresses 1g to 1m of the seventh to eleventh embodiments.

[0058] <Effects of the mattress 1d of the fourth embodiment> The configuration of the mattress 1d described above provides the following advantages. The convex strips 3d have alternating convex portions 11 and concave portions 12 formed on the top portions 10, thereby enhancing the body pressure distribution effect. Furthermore, the first convex portions 11a of the convex strips 3d and the other convex strips 3d adjacent to them in the second direction are aligned in the first direction, thereby further reducing the inclination of the convex strips 3d when pressure due to the user's weight is applied in the second direction. Therefore, the mattress 1d can further reduce the difference in body pressure distribution effect depending on the direction of pressure when the user's weight is applied. Furthermore, the convex strips 3d have convex portions 11 formed on them, resulting in a greater body pressure distribution effect than when the top portions 10 are continuous along the direction of the convex strips 3d.

[0059] Furthermore, in mattress 1d, because the protrusions 11 are formed by the first layer 31, the second layer 32 is compressed first by the user's weight, and the protrusions 11 are compressed after the second layer 32 is compressed. Furthermore, because the first layer 31 is continuous at the protrusions 3d, the convex shape is maintained during the compression process of mattress 1, providing a body pressure distribution effect. Because the protrusions 11 are formed by the first layer 31, which has a higher density and / or hardness than the second layer 32, they provide an acupressure effect to the user. Furthermore, mattress 1d can reduce deterioration due to settling of the protrusions 11, thereby extending its usable lifespan. The same applies to mattress 1e of the fifth embodiment, which is a fifth embodiment, and mattresses 1g to 1m of the seventh to eleventh embodiments, which are the other embodiments.

[0060] The second layer 32 may also have a lower resilience than the first layer 31 and the third layer 33. In this case, when the user's weight is applied, the second layer 32 of the three layers begins to compress first. This prevents the body from sinking excessively, and maintains the acupressure effect of the protrusions 11. The same applies to the mattress 1e of the fifth embodiment, which is one of the other embodiments, and the mattresses 1g to 1m of the seventh to eleventh embodiments.

[0061] <Configuration and Effects of Mattress 1e of Fifth Embodiment> Next, the configuration and effects of a mattress 1e of a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 7. Mattress 1e differs from mattress 1d in that the first line portion 5e is curved. The other components are the same as mattress 1d. Because the first line portions 5e are curved, the angle formed by the two first line portions 5e across the bent portion 6e is defined as angle θ, as shown in Figure 7, which is the angle formed by the line connecting the first convex portions 11a at both ends of the first line portions 5e.

[0062] According to the configuration of the mattress 1e described above, because the first linear portion 5e is curved, when the weight of the user is applied, the direction of inclination of the ridges 3e changes depending on the portion, thereby achieving a better body pressure distribution effect. As with the mattress 1d, the first ridges 11a and second ridges 11b of the ridges 3e are at the same height along the direction in which the ridges 3e are connected.

[0063] <Configuration and Effects of Mattress 1f of Sixth Embodiment> Next, the configuration and effects of a mattress 1f of a sixth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 8. Mattress 1f differs from mattress 1c in the following respects. The bent portion 6f of mattress 1f includes a second line portion 25 extending in a first direction, and both ends of the second line portion 25 are bent and connected to the two first line portions 5f. The convex rib 3f is formed into a trapezoidal shape by the first line portions 5f and the bent portion 6f. The other components are the same as those of mattress 1c.

[0064] The configuration of the mattress 1f described above provides the following advantages. The ridges 3f are formed in a trapezoidal shape, which can distribute the pressure applied to the bent portions 6f. Therefore, the mattress 1f not only has the effect of dispersing body pressure when the weight of the user is applied, but also reduces deterioration caused by pressure concentrating on the bent portions 6f.

[0065] <Configurations and Effects of the Mattress 1g of the Seventh Embodiment and the Mattress 1h of the Eighth Embodiment> Next, the configuration of a mattress 1g of the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 9. Mattress 1g differs from mattress 1d in the following respects. In the convex strips 3g, a convex strip block 20 is formed by multiple convex portions 11 and concave portions 12 sandwiched between the convex portions 11. This is the same for mattresses 1h to 1k. As shown in Figure 9, in mattress 1g, the concave portion 12 between convex strip blocks 20g is a boundary concave portion 21. The boundary concave portion 21 is formed deeper than the other concave portions 12. The boundary concave portion 21 is formed by the third layer 33. In convex strip block 20g, the first layer 31 to the third layer 33 are formed continuously in the direction in which the convex strips 3g are connected.

[0066] In the example shown in FIG. 9 , the convex streak 3g has a convex streak block 20g formed by two convex portions 11 and a concave portion 12 sandwiched between the convex portions 11. The bent portion 6g has a first convex portion 11a, and a boundary concave portion 21 is formed between the convex streak blocks 20g. The boundary concave portion 21 is formed only by the third layer 33. The first line portion 5g includes a convex streak block 20g and a boundary concave portion 21. Of the two first line portions 5g, one includes one convex streak block 20g, and the other includes two convex streak blocks 20g. Therefore, the two first line portions 5g have different numbers of convex streak blocks 20g formed therein. The convex streak 3g and another convex streak 3g adjacent to it in the second direction may be arranged so that the numbers of convex streak blocks 20g included in the adjacent first line portions 5g are the same or different. Similar to the mattress 1d, the first convex portion 11a and the second convex portion 11b of the convex strip 3g have the same height along the direction in which the convex strip 3g extends.

[0067] Next, the configuration of a mattress 1h of an eighth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 10. The convex streak 3h of the mattress 1h has a convex streak block 20h formed by three convex portions 11 and two concave portions 12 in the first line portion 5h. As with the mattress 1g, a first convex portion 11a is formed in the bent portion 6h, and a boundary concave portion 21 is formed between the convex streak blocks 20h. The boundary concave portion 21 is formed by the third layer 33. The convex streak blocks 20h are formed continuously from the first layer 31 to the third layer 33 in the direction in which the convex streak 3h extends. Furthermore, the number of convex streak blocks 20h included in each first line portion 5h is the same. As with the mattress 1d, the first convex portion 11a and second convex portion 11b of the convex streak 3h have the same height along the direction in which the convex streak 3h extends. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the convex block 20h has three convex portions 11 and two concave portions 12, but the number of convex portions 11 may be four or more and the number of concave portions 12 may be three or more.

[0068] The configurations of mattresses 1g and 1h described above provide the following advantages. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, adjacent convex strip blocks 20g and 20h in the first direction of mattress 1g and mattress 1h have reduced mutual restraint forces. When the user's weight is applied, convex strip blocks 3g and 3h can deform, such as tilting, at the convex strip block 20g and 20h level. Convex strips 3g and 3h are more susceptible to deformation in response to pressure in the first direction than when they are continuous and do not have boundary recesses 21. This allows for more uniform deformation in response to pressure in the first and second directions. Therefore, mattresses 1g and 1h enhance the body pressure distribution effect and further reduce the difference in body pressure distribution effect that occurs depending on the direction of use.

[0069] Furthermore, the second layer 32 has a lower density and / or a lower hardness than the first layer 31 and the third layer 33. That is, the boundary recess 21 is formed by the third layer 33, which has a higher density and / or a higher hardness than the second layer 32, and therefore, between adjacent ridge blocks 20g and between adjacent ridge blocks 20h, the influence of deformation of one on the other can be reduced.

[0070] <Configuration and Effects of Mattress 1j of Ninth Embodiment> Next, the configuration and effects of a mattress 1j of the ninth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 11. Mattress 1j differs from mattress 1f in the following respects. Mattress 1j has a convex portion 11 and a concave portion 12 formed at the top 10 of convex strip 3j compared to mattress 1f. Bend portion 6j includes a second line portion 25, and a first convex portion 11a is formed at the boundary with first line portion 5j, with concave portion 12 sandwiched between the two first convex portions 11a. The concave portion 12 formed in bend portion 6j includes a boundary concave portion 21.

[0071] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 11(b), in the convex strip 3j, a convex strip block 20j is formed by a plurality of convex portions 11 and concave portions 12 sandwiched between the convex portions 11. The concave portions 12 between the convex strip blocks 20j are boundary concave portions 21. The boundary concave portions 21 are formed by the third layer 33. The convex strip block 20j is formed continuously from the first layer 31 to the third layer 33 in the direction in which the convex strips 3j are connected. In the example shown in FIG. 11(b), the convex strip block 20j is formed by three convex portions 11 and two concave portions 12. Note that the numbers of convex portions 11 and concave portions 12 are not limited to these, and the number of convex portions 11 may be four or more, and the number of concave portions 12 may be three or more. As shown in FIG. 11(a), the angle θ formed by the two first line portions 5j across the bent portion 6j is the angle between the straight lines connecting the first convex portions 11a. Similar to the mattress 1d, the first convex portion 11a and the second convex portion 11b of the convex strip 3j have the same height along the direction in which the convex strip 3j extends.

[0072] The above-described configuration of the mattress 1j provides the following advantages. As shown in FIG. 11 , the boundary recess 21 is included in the bent portion 6j, so that the convex stratum block 20j is separated from the other convex stratum blocks 20j at the bent portion 6j. The convex stratum blocks 20j adjacent to each other in the first direction have reduced mutual restraint forces, making them more susceptible to deformation in response to pressure exerted in the first direction by the user's weight. This allows for more uniform deformation in response to pressure exerted in the first and second directions. Furthermore, the first convex portions 11a are arranged in the first direction, sandwiching the boundary recess 21 between them, thereby dispersing pressure exerted on the bent portion 6j. Therefore, the mattress 1j enhances the body pressure distribution effect and further reduces the difference in body pressure distribution effect depending on the direction of use. Furthermore, the boundary recess 21 is formed by the third layer 33, which has a higher density and / or hardness than the second layer 32, reducing the impact of deformation of one convex stratum block 20j on the other.

[0073] <Configuration and effects of mattress 1k of tenth embodiment> Next, the configuration and effects of a mattress 1k of the tenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 12. Mattress 1k differs from mattress 1h shown in FIG. 10 in the following respects. The convex strip 3k of mattress 1k has a convex strip block 20k and a boundary recess 21 formed in the first line portion 5k. The boundary recess 21 is formed with a longer distance between convex strip blocks 20k than in mattress 1h. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the boundary recess 21 is formed with the length of one convex strip 11b, and the length of the first line portion 5k corresponds to the case where there are five convex strips 11. The bent portion 6k includes a first convex strip 11a. Similar to mattress 1d, the first convex strip 11a and second convex strip 11b of the convex strip 3k have the same height along the direction in which the convex strips 3k are connected.

[0074] The configuration of the mattress 1k described above provides the following advantages. Because the boundary recess 21 is formed to be approximately the same length as the protrusion 11, the protrusion block 20k is less likely to be affected by other adjacent protrusion blocks 20k. If one protrusion block 20k tilts, the other adjacent protrusion blocks 20k are less affected, and the independence of each protrusion block 20k is high. Therefore, when the user's weight is applied, body pressure distribution can be improved.

[0075] <Configuration and effects of mattress 1m of eleventh embodiment> Next, the configuration and effects of a mattress 1m of an eleventh embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 13. Mattress 1m differs from mattress 1d in the following configuration. In the convex strip 3m of mattress 1m, in the first line portion 5m, the first convex portion 11a and second convex portion 11b, which are convex portions 11, are formed by a plurality of small convex portions 15 and small concave portions 16. In the example shown in Figure 13, convex portion 11 is formed by two small convex portions 15 and one small concave portion 16. The bent portion 6m includes the small convex portion 15 of the first convex portion 11a. The depth in the thickness direction of the small concave portion 16 is formed shallower than the concave portion 12.

[0076] With this configuration, the mattress 1m can support the weight of the user at a fine pitch by the small protrusions 15, thereby providing a body pressure distribution effect. Note that the protrusions 11 may have three or more small protrusions 15 and two or more small recesses 16. The small protrusions 15 are of the same height along the direction in which the ridges 3m are connected.

[0077] <Comparative evaluation of the mattress 1 according to the present invention and the unprocessed surface 2> Next, a comparative evaluation of the mattress 1d of the fourth embodiment of the mattress 1 according to the present invention and a mattress with an unprocessed surface 2 will be described. The evaluation conditions are as follows. The size of the test specimens used was 1980 mm long, 980 mm short, and 55 mm thick, with three specimens with a long side length of 660 mm lined up in the long side direction for evaluation. Hereinafter, mattresses with an unprocessed surface 2 will be referred to as "unprocessed surface products." All mattresses have a three-layer structure in the thickness direction.

[0078] The hardness of each layer in the thickness direction is 180N for the first layer 31, 125N for the second layer 32, and 180N for the third layer 33. The hardness was measured in accordance with JIS6400-2 6.7D method. The impact resilience of each layer is 51% for the first layer 31, 48% for the second layer 32, and 51% for the third layer 33. The impact resilience was measured in accordance with JIS6400-3. The density of each layer is 40kg / m for the first layer 31, 40kg / m 3 , the second layer 32 is 30 kg / m 3 , the third layer 33 is 40 kg / m 3 The density was measured in accordance with JIS K7222. The materials constituting each layer are the same for the mattress 1d and the unprocessed product. The first layer 31, the second layer 32, and the third layer 33 are all high-resilience urethane.

[0079] Next, we will explain the subjects. There were three subjects, A to C. Subject A was a petite woman weighing 49 kg, standing 162 cm, and with a BMI of 18.67. Subject B was a medium-sized man weighing 63 kg, standing 173 cm, and with a BMI of 21.05. Subject C was a large man weighing 77 kg, standing 170 cm, and with a BMI of 26.64.

[0080] Figure 14 is a graph showing the amount of sinking at each position when each subject lay down on the mattress 1d and the untreated surface. The horizontal axis indicates the head at 0, and moves to the right toward the feet. The vertical axis indicates the amount of sinking in mm.

[0081] Figure 15 shows the difference between the mattress 1d and the unprocessed product, measured by measuring the amount of sinking in the buttocks, abdomen, and chest. The test in Figures 14 and 15 was conducted after the subject had assumed a supine position and recorded the state one minute after the sinking had generally settled down.

[0082] Figure 16 shows the results of measuring the contact area and average pressure in both the supine and lateral positions. Evaluation was performed by analyzing images taken by the body pressure distribution sensor. For the test shown in Figure 16, the subject was placed in both the supine and lateral positions, and the state was recorded three minutes after the subject assumed a lying position, at which point the measurement values ​​had generally stabilized. The body pressure distribution sensor is a flexible, flat sheet with body pressure sensors arranged in a grid pattern with a 20 mm pitch. During measurement, the sheet was placed on the top layer of the mattress, and when the subject lay on it, the amount of sinking (see Figure 15), contact area (see Figure 16), and average pressure (see Figure 16) could be measured.

[0083] The following results were obtained from Figures 14 to 16. Figures 14 and 15 show that Mattress 1d tends to sink in more than the unprocessed product overall. Figure 16 shows that Mattress 1d has a larger contact area and a lower average pressure than the unprocessed product.

[0084] From the above results, it can be seen that Mattress 1d has a larger overall sinking amount in relation to the sleeping position, which increases the contact area with the abdomen and thighs, enabling it to support the body over a wider area. Therefore, Mattress 1d has superior body pressure distribution compared to mattresses with an untreated surface.

[0085] It goes without saying that the mattress 1 described above can be used as a cushion for a seat cushion, a chair, a sofa, and the like. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 1, 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, 1g, 1h, 1j, 1k, 1m Mattress 2 surface 3, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g, 3h, 3j, 3k, 3m Convex strip 31 First layer 32 Second layer 33 Third layer

Claims

1. A mattress having a predetermined thickness in a thickness direction and a surface extending in a plane direction perpendicular to the thickness direction, The thickness direction includes a plurality of ridges formed by stacking three layers, namely, a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer, from the surface, The protrusions are formed continuously in the planar direction, In the convex strip, the layer is continuous; the second layer has a lower density and / or a lower hardness than the first layer and the third layer; In the planar direction, the convex strip has a V-shaped portion formed by alternating straight or curved first line portions and bent portions, The V-shaped portion is connected in the planar direction to form a continuous W-shape.

2. A mattress having a predetermined thickness in a thickness direction and a surface extending in a plane direction perpendicular to the thickness direction, The thickness direction includes a plurality of ridges formed by stacking three layers, namely, a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer, from the surface, The protrusions are formed continuously in the planar direction, In the convex strip, the layer is continuous; the second layer has a lower density and / or a lower hardness than the first layer and the third layer; The protrusions have regular irregularities in the planar direction, the projections and recesses are formed by planar convex portions that are formed by swelling in the planar direction and planar concave portions that are formed by recessing in the planar direction, A mattress in which the planar convex portions and the planar concave portions are repeatedly formed in the direction in which the convex ridges are connected so that the width of the convex ridges changes between widening and narrowing.

3. A mattress having a predetermined thickness in a thickness direction and a surface extending in a plane direction perpendicular to the thickness direction, The thickness direction includes a plurality of ridges formed by stacking three layers, namely, a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer, from the surface, The protrusions are formed continuously in the planar direction, In the convex strip, the layer is continuous; the second layer has a lower density and / or a lower hardness than the first layer and the third layer; The convex strip has a first line portion that is straight or curved and a second line portion that extends in the planar direction, The second line portion is bent and connected to the two first line portions at both ends, A mattress in which, in the planar direction, the convex strip is formed into a trapezoidal shape by the first line portion and the second line portion.

4. A mattress having a predetermined thickness in a thickness direction and a surface extending in a plane direction perpendicular to the thickness direction, The thickness direction includes a plurality of ridges formed by stacking three layers, namely, a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer, from the surface, The protrusions are formed continuously in the planar direction, In the convex strip, the layer is continuous; the second layer has a lower density and / or a lower hardness than the first layer and the third layer; The ridges are In the planar direction, straight or curved first line portions and bent portions are alternately connected, one of the planar directions is a first direction, and a direction perpendicular to the first direction is a second direction; In the convex stripe and the other convex stripe adjacent to the convex stripe in the second direction, A mattress in which an imaginary line extending in the first direction alternately intersects the bent portion of the convex stripe with the bent portion of another convex stripe.

5. A mattress having a predetermined thickness in a thickness direction and a surface extending in a plane direction perpendicular to the thickness direction, The thickness direction includes a plurality of ridges formed by stacking three layers, namely, a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer, from the surface, The protrusions are formed continuously in the planar direction, In the convex strip, the layer is continuous; the second layer has a lower density and / or a lower hardness than the first layer and the third layer; The ridges are In the planar direction, straight or curved first line portions and bent portions are alternately connected, and in the first layer, convex portions and concave portions are alternately formed in the direction in which the convex streaks are connected, a plurality of the protrusions and the recesses sandwiched between the protrusions form a convex block in which the first layer is continuous, the recessed portion between the protruding blocks is a boundary recessed portion, The depth of the boundary recess is formed deeper than the other recesses.

6. A mattress having a predetermined thickness in a thickness direction and a surface extending in a plane direction perpendicular to the thickness direction, The thickness direction includes a plurality of ridges formed by stacking three layers, namely, a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer, from the surface, The protrusions are formed continuously in the planar direction, In the convex strip, the layer is continuous; The second layer of the mattress has a lower density and firmness than the first and third layers.

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