Human-Body Support Elements with 3D-Printed Pressure-Mapped Padding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support elements for the human body, such as bicycle saddles and grips, are typically made in a standardized manner, failing to adapt to the specific anatomical and individual needs of users, necessitating a method for customization and personalization.
Innovation Solution
A method involving three-dimensional printing is used to create a support element with a first rigid support component and a second elastic padding component, featuring a honeycomb structure of cells with varying size, density, and stiffness based on user-specific pressure mapping, allowing for customized production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If standardized manufacturing methods are used for support elements, then production efficiency and cost are improved, but the ability to adapt to individual anatomical needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating support elements with spatially varying properties - different regions of the support element have different densities, stiffness, and cellular structures tailored to specific anatomical requirements. The 3D printing process enables precise control of material distribution, allowing hard support in some areas and soft cushioning in others, directly addressing individual user anatomy while maintaining efficient production through digital modeling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If customized support elements are created for each user, then adaptability to individual needs is improved, but manufacturing complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying material properties (density, stiffness, cellular structure) and geometric parameters through 3D printing based on user-specific data. The digital model allows precise adjustment of structural parameters such as cell size, wall thickness, and material distribution, enabling customization without requiring complex manual manufacturing processes. The 3D printing technology translates digital parameters directly into physical properties, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining high adaptability.
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 method enables the creation of support elements that provide personalized comfort and mechanical support tailored to individual user needs, enhancing ergonomics and adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
A method involving three-dimensional printing is used to create a support element with a first rigid support component and a second elastic padding component, featuring a honeycomb structure of cells with varying size, density, and stiffness based on user-specific pressure mapping
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
Method for making a support element for the human body equipped with a first component or support component, a second component or padding component, wherein at least the second component or padding component is obtained by means of a three-dimensional printing technique; apparatus for implementing the method for obtaining the support element and support element thus obtained.