Bed microclimate control with preparation cycle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bed systems lack effective microclimate control, leading to inconsistent temperature and comfort levels, particularly in air mattresses where active heating or cooling can disrupt air pressure settings and user comfort.
Innovation Solution
A bed system with an integrated airflow zone and microclimate control subsystem that uses conditioned air to regulate temperature, featuring airflow pads with elastic polyolefin fibers, a fan assembly, and temperature sensors for closed-loop control, ensuring precise temperature management and humidity control without compromising mattress comfort or durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If active heating or cooling systems are used in air mattresses, then temperature control capability is improved, but air pressure stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates temperature control and pressure control into independent subsystems. The microclimate control subsystem uses PTC heating elements and fans for temperature regulation, while the air pump subsystem independently manages air chamber pressure. This segmentation allows each subsystem to operate without interfering with the other, resolving the contradiction between temperature control capability and air pressure stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an air distribution layer with airflow channels as an intermediary between the heating elements and the air mattress interior. This intermediary structure directs airflow through specific pathways, enabling temperature control while maintaining uniform air pressure distribution throughout the mattress, thus preventing pressure instability.
2Temperature
If microclimate control subsystem is added to regulate temperature, then temperature precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microclimate control subsystem merges multiple functions into integrated components. The PTC heating elements serve both as heating sources and as structural elements within the air distribution layer. The fans are integrated with the air pump system, and the control unit combines temperature sensing, pressure monitoring, and system coordination functions. This merging reduces overall device complexity while maintaining temperature precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heating elements automatically regulate their own temperature output based on ambient conditions, eliminating the need for complex external temperature control circuits. The system uses simple temperature sensors and feedback loops that allow the heating elements to self-adjust, reducing control system complexity while achieving precise temperature regulation.
3Quantity of substance
If airflow pads with high permeability are used, then air flow rate is improved, but structural support deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The air distribution layer uses composite construction combining rigid support frames with permeable airflow channels. The structure integrates high-strength materials for structural support with porous materials for air flow, creating a composite system that simultaneously provides both structural integrity and high air flow rate capability without compromising either function.
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 system provides consistent comfort by effectively regulating temperature and humidity, minimizing air pressure deviations in air mattresses, and enhancing sleep quality through precise microclimate control.
Implementation Method 1
The air controller may include a PTC heating element
Implementation Method 2
The reversible fan may be positioned in the housing between the ambient-side opening and the PTC heating element
Implementation Method 3
The air controller may include a temperature sensor configured to detect an air temperature
Data Source
AI summary
A bed system includes microclimate control capabilities for providing quality sleep experience. The bed system can include a microclimate control subsystem configured to supply conditioned air (e.g., heated or cooled air) to a mattress, or draw ambient air from the mattress, to achieve a desired temperature at the top of the mattress. Utilizing supply of conditioned air to provide air at desired temperature to the mattress system, or utilizing air suction to drain heat away from the mattress system, can provide precise microclimate control at the mattress, thereby permitting conformable sleep.