Adjustable Slatted Frame Layout for Ergonomic Support Zones

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing slatted frames lack adjustable and lockable options for the horizontal spacing of spring slats, limiting the ability to define specific zones on the lying surface, such as the lordosis and pelvic zones, which are crucial for ergonomic alignment.

Innovation Solution

The bearing elements carrying the slats are designed to be adjustable and lockable in the horizontal longitudinal direction, allowing for individual setting of the horizontal distance between adjacent spring slats, enabling the definition of specific zones by adjusting the mutual spacing, which can be done manually or using an electromechanical system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the bearing elements are made fixed in position, then the structure is simple and stable, but the ability to adjust and define specific zones on the lying surface is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of bearing element positionVSAvoidcomplexity of adjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bearing elements are designed with adjustable positioning capabilities, allowing them to change from a fixed state to a dynamically adjustable state. The longitudinal guides and positioning devices enable the bearing elements to be moved along the longitudinal beams to specific positions, then locked in place, providing both adaptability and structural stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The frame structure is segmented into modular components: longitudinal beams, cross beams, and multiple independently adjustable bearing elements. Each bearing element can be positioned and locked independently at different locations along the longitudinal beams, allowing flexible configuration of the lying surface zones without requiring complex integrated adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the horizontal distance between spring slats is fixed, then the manufacturing is simple, but specific ergonomic zones cannot be defined

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to define specific zonesVSAvoidease of manufacturing bearing elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The bearing elements are designed as universal components that can accommodate different spring slats and be positioned at various locations along the longitudinal beams. Each bearing element serves multiple functions: supporting spring slats, enabling horizontal adjustment, providing locking capability, and facilitating zone definition, all while maintaining a relatively simple manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If manual adjustment of bearing elements is used, then the device complexity is low, but the precision and ease of operation are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of adjusting bearing element positionVSAvoidcomplexity of positioning system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Longitudinal guides are introduced as intermediary components between the bearing elements and the longitudinal beams. These guides facilitate smooth movement of bearing elements along the longitudinal beams during adjustment, reduce friction, and ensure precise positioning when the bearing elements are locked in place, thereby improving ease of operation without significantly increasing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3045083B1Slatted frame with a frame and a measuring device
Publication Date: 2017.04.19 DOC
  • EP3045083B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3045083B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3045083B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Slatted frame with a frame and a measuring device for detecting the deformation of a lying surface under the load of a person lying on it, the deformation taking place by detecting the vertical deflection of spring slats (12) which are in the slatted frame (3, 5, 6, 13) on both sides with are held at their free ends in a mounting body (21), on which the displaceable end of a vertically directed lifting drive (7, 8, 27) acts, which is supported in relation to a base frame (2) on the floor, the mutual horizontal distance between the spring slats ( 13) is adjustable and lockable.