Contouring backrest device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seating systems, including wheelchairs, often lack the ability to readily alter the extent and location of contoured cushioning to accommodate individual user needs, leading to discomfort and safety issues for high-needs users, and are typically not adaptable for different users over time.
Innovation Solution
A backrest contouring device featuring a substrate with adjustable pockets that can hold inserts of varying sizes and shapes, allowing for customizable contouring by placing inserts in specific pockets to modify the posture and position of a user, with elasticated fabric for flexibility and a cushioning layer for added comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed contouring is provided in seating systems, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to individual user needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest is divided into multiple adjustable sections or zones, each capable of independent contouring adjustment. This segmentation allows different regions to be customized for different user needs while maintaining overall structural organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The contouring elements are designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than fixed, allowing users to modify the shape and position of cushioning areas according to their changing needs over time.
2Ease of operation
If customised contouring is provided for high needs users, then comfort and safety are improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables users to independently adjust and customize their own seating contours without requiring caregiver intervention, promoting autonomy while ensuring proper posture support.
3Productivity
If fixed contouring devices are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but loss of time deteriorates due to inability to reuse seats for different users
Solution Approach 1:
The seating system is designed with universal adjustability features that allow a single seat to serve multiple users with different contouring requirements, increasing asset utilization and reducing the need for multiple specialized seats.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a contouring device for a seat base, backrest, or mattress. The device comprises a substrate having a first surface and an opposing second surface, the first and second surfaces each comprising a plurality of pockets adapted to receive one or more inserts therein. Inserts of various sizes and shapes can be placed within selected pockets of the device to provide a contoured surface that suits the needs of the user of the device. For example, the device can be adapted to provide contours that encourage a user to adopt a preferred posture when seated or lying down.