Cellular Cushion Structure for Independent Load Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cushioning systems lack independence of cells or springs, leading to increased load on specific areas of the body, causing pressure points due to the deformation of adjacent cells or springs, which results in uneven distribution of weight and discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A cellular cushioning system where void cells are decoupled and deform independently within an independent deformation range, using an intermedial binding layer to allow compression of one cell without substantially compressing adjacent cells, thereby distributing load evenly and reducing pressure points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If cells or springs are directly coupled together or indirectly coupled with unifying layers, then the cushioning system is tied together structurally, but the independence of each cell or spring is reduced leading to increased point loads and pressure points
Solution Approach 1:
The cushioning system is divided into modular units (bladders or springs) that are coupled through compliant unifying layers. Each unit can deform independently within its segment, allowing the system to maintain structural integrity while avoiding pressure points through localized deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
Compliant unifying layers are introduced as intermediary elements between the cellular units. These layers allow relative movement and independent deformation of adjacent cells while maintaining structural connection, thereby eliminating the harmful effect of pressure points caused by rigid coupling.
2Force
If multiple cells or springs deform together under load, then the load is distributed across the cushioning system, but the resistance to deflection increases due to multiple cells deforming
Solution Approach 1:
The cushioning system is segmented into independently deformable units connected by compliant layers. This segmentation allows each unit to deform locally under load without forcing adjacent units to deform simultaneously, thereby reducing the overall resistance to deflection while maintaining load distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The unifying layers are designed to be compliant and dynamic, allowing the cushioning system to adapt its deformation pattern based on local load conditions. This dynamic behavior enables individual cells to deform independently when needed, reducing unnecessary resistance to deflection.
3Ease of manufacture
If the cushioning system uses a unified structure, then manufacturing is simplified, but the ability to provide independent deformation range for each cell is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cushioning system is manufactured as an array of identical modular units, each with the same structure and properties. This segmentation into standardized modules simplifies manufacturing through repetition while enabling each unit to provide independent deformation within its defined range.
Solution Approach 2:
The compliant unifying layers serve multiple functions: they connect adjacent cells structurally, allow independent deformation of each cell, and maintain the overall integrity of the cushioning system. This multi-functionality achieves both manufacturing simplicity and independent deformation capability.
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 effectively reduces pressure points on the body by allowing individual void cells to compress independently, providing even weight distribution and enhanced comfort by varying resistance to deflection based on load orientation and location.
Implementation Method 1
compression of a void cell in a direction normal to the intermedial binding layer occurs without substantial deflection of at least one adjacent void cell, wherein compression of the void cell is within an independent compression range of the void cell
Data Source
AI summary
A cellular cushioning system includes cells or support units arranged in one or more stacked arrays. The cells are hollow chambers that resist deflection due to compressive forces, similar to compression springs. The arrays are attached to one or more intermedial binding layers. The intermedial binding layer(s) links the cells together while allowing the cells to deform independently of one another. An external load compresses of one of the void cells within an independent compression range without significantly compressing at least one void cell adjacent the compressed void cell. The independent compression range is the displacement range of the compressed void cell that does not significantly affect the compression of adjacent void cells. If the void cell is compressed beyond the independent compression range, the intermedial binding layers may be deflected and/or the void cells adjacent the compressed void cell may be compressed.