Bed Base Suspension with Adjustable Stiffness and Deformation Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bed base suspension devices with rigid stiffening elements reduce deformation range, requiring substantial force to deform and compromising comfort.
Innovation Solution
A suspension device with adjustable stiffness featuring a mobile elastic element that can shift between positions to modify stiffness, allowing for varying degrees of elastic coupling between the upper and lower sections, thereby enhancing comfort and deformation range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid stiffening element is used to increase stiffness, then the stiffness of the suspension device is improved, but the deformation range is substantially decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the rigid stiffening element with a mobile element that can shift positions. This mobile element includes an elastic body that can be compressed and expanded, allowing the suspension device to dynamically adjust its stiffness characteristics while maintaining adequate deformation range. The mobile element transitions between different positions (first, second, and intermediate positions) to provide variable stiffness rather than fixed rigid support.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the physical state of the elastic body within the mobile element. The elastic body can be compressed to a first degree in the first position, expanded to a second degree in the second position, and partially compressed in the intermediate position. These parameter changes allow the suspension device to achieve different stiffness levels without sacrificing deformation capability.
2Strength
If a rigid stiffening element is used to increase stiffness, then the connecting stiffness is improved, but substantial force is necessary to deform the suspension device
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile element with its elastic body provides dynamic stiffness adjustment. When the elastic body is compressed to a higher degree (first position), it provides greater stiffness and requires more force for deformation. When expanded (second position), it provides lesser stiffness and requires less force. This dynamic characteristic allows the suspension device to adapt to different loading conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic body's compression degree serves as a variable parameter that directly controls the force required for deformation. By changing the compression degree between first, second, and intermediate positions, the patent modifies the force-displacement characteristics of the suspension device, enabling it to provide appropriate resistance under different operational conditions.
3Strength
If a rigid stiffening element is used, then the stiffness adjustment is achieved, but the comfort impression is harmed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses parameter changes in the elastic body's compression degree to optimize comfort. The intermediate position, where the elastic body is partially compressed, provides a medium stiffness level that balances support and comfort. This partial compression state allows for a more comfortable interaction compared to the fully compressed first position, while still providing adequate stiffness compared to the expanded second position.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The adjustable stiffness suspension device improves comfort by allowing for a wider deformation range and varying resistance to displacement, providing a more comfortable and adaptable support system.
Implementation Method 1
the first elastic body can adopt a first configuration capable of deforming elastically to exert retraction force with a first stiffness R1
Implementation Method 2
a mobile element fitted with at least one first elastic body... the mobile element can have a first position... another position, so-called 'second position'
Data Source
AI summary
A suspension device (510′) for a bed base or a seat, comprising an upper section fitted with a top plate capable of supporting a mattress, a lower section (520′) adapted to be attached to a bed base, said lower section being connected to the upper section by a suspension means, a mobile element (540′), which is movable relative to the suspension device so that said mobile element can be shifted at least between a first position and a second position for modifying a stiffness of the suspension device.The mobile element (540′) is fitted with at least one first elastic body which is configured to deform elastically when the mobile element is brought from one position to the other.