Concentric Air Bladder Seating to Minimize Roll and Bulging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air bladder designs in seating products are uncomfortable due to 'roll' issues and unsightly appearance, as they protrude like a bump, affecting user experience and aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A seating product with multiple concentric inflatable air bladders arranged in a picture frame configuration, each independently controllable, combined with layers of foam and fiber, and an air supply system for customizable firmness and appearance, reducing 'roll' and enhancing comfort and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single large air bladder is used to improve comfort, then the seating comfort is enhanced, but the bladder protrudes like a bump causing roll and unsightly appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The single large air bladder is divided into multiple smaller bladders arranged in a specific pattern (e.g., side-by-side or nested configuration). This segmentation allows each individual bladder to remain relatively flat while collectively providing the desired comfort level, eliminating the protrusion and roll issues associated with a single large bladder.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple air bladders are arranged in a nested configuration where smaller bladders are positioned within or adjacent to larger bladders. This nested arrangement optimizes space utilization and allows the bladders to support the user effectively without creating excessive protrusion, thereby reducing roll while maintaining comfort.
2Ease of operation
If air bladders are inflated to improve comfort, then seating support is enhanced, but the bladders create a bulging appearance
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the seating support into multiple segmented bladders rather than one large inflated bladder, the pressure and volume distribution is optimized. Each segment can be inflated to a moderate level, providing adequate support collectively while avoiding the excessive bulging that occurs with a single large bladder.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the seating surface are served by different bladders with potentially different inflation levels. This allows localized optimization where each bladder provides appropriate support for its specific area without contributing to overall bulging, as the inflation is distributed across multiple local zones rather than concentrated in one area.
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 concentric air bladder design provides adjustable firmness and comfort, minimizing 'roll' and improving aesthetics, allowing for personalized support and appearance customization.
Implementation Method 1
an electric air pump for delivering a supply of pressurized air to the concentric air bladders
Data Source
AI summary
A set of inflatable, tubular, and concentric tubes or air bladders are placed in a bedding or seating product and adjusted to meet the preferences of a user. The tubes are arranged concentrically with the innermost tube defining an aperture at the center of the product. The tubes are connected to air supply hoses that are inflated through activation of an electronically controlled air pump. The flow may be controlled by solenoid or other valves. The user via a remote may control the inflation of one or more of the tubes to provide the optimum level of comfort to the user.