Collapsible Foot Support Structure for Bedding Relief and Portability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foot support devices fail to provide adequate support and protection from bedding, are inconvenient to use, and not portable, particularly for individuals with foot pain conditions like gout.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible foot support device with a design comprising a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and a backwall, which are movably coupled to form an expanded configuration for support and protection, and can be easily collapsed for portability, featuring movable joints and multi-panel structures for adjustable configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a rigid in-bed tent frame is used to elevate bedding, then bedding protection is improved, but portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The foot support device is divided into multiple collapsible panels connected by hinges, allowing the structure to be segmented into foldable units that can be easily packed and transported while maintaining structural integrity when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static rigid frame to a dynamic collapsible structure with movable joints, enabling it to change configuration between deployed and packed states, thus improving portability without sacrificing support functionality
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a custom-adjusted in-bed tent frame is used, then bedding protection is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The foot support device is designed to be self-supporting through its geometric structure and interlocking panels, eliminating the need for external anchoring or complex adjustment mechanisms, allowing users to simply unfold and place it under the mattress
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with universal dimensions that work with standard mattress sizes without requiring custom adjustment, making it applicable to various bed types while simplifying the setup process
3Strength
If a foam foot support is used, then foot support is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The foam support structure is divided into multiple panels connected by hinges, allowing the rigid foam elements to be segmented into portable sections that can be folded and packed while maintaining their load-bearing capacity when assembled
4Object-affected harmful factors
If bedding is elevated over feet, then pain relief is improved, but foot support deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges two previously separate functions into a single integrated structure: the elevated platform that prevents bedding contact and the foot support surface with contoured edges, providing both bedding protection and active foot support simultaneously
Data Source
AI summary
A novel foot support device includes a first sidewall adapted to engage the lateral side of a first foot, a second sidewall adapted to engage the lateral side of a second foot, and a backwall adapted to engage both the plantar region of the first foot and the plantar region of the second foot. In a particular embodiment, the first sidewall includes an inclined interior surface, the second sidewall includes an inclined interior surface, and the backwall includes an inclined interior surface. In another particular embodiment, the foot support device includes sidewalls and a backwall that can flatten and pivot relative to one another, facilitating a collapsible foot support device.