Device for supporting a person, method for influencing the shape of a support for such, and related pillow, chair, mattress, and bed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support devices for persons, such as those used in the transport sector and for medical applications, lack the ability to accurately adjust the shape and distribution of forces on the support surface, leading to discomfort and potential issues like decubitus ulcers, especially when used for extended periods.
Innovation Solution
A support device with a main surface and auxiliary elements featuring adjustable sub-support surfaces, monitored and controlled by a programmable unit, utilizing elastically bendable plates and electromotors to distribute forces evenly and adapt to user conditions, allowing precise shaping and force distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a group of support elements with adjustable sub-support surfaces is used to influence the shape of the main support surface, then the adaptability and comfort of the support device is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is divided into multiple independent support elements (3-9 elements), each with its own sub-support surface and adjustment mechanism. This segmentation allows each element to be independently adjusted to influence the shape of the main support surface in specific local areas, providing fine-grained control over the overall surface geometry while maintaining system adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The support elements incorporate adjustable mechanisms that enable dynamic modification of the sub-support surface heights. This allows the main support surface shape to be dynamically adapted to different user needs and body positions, transforming a static support structure into a dynamically adjustable system that can respond to varying support requirements
2Manufacturing precision
If monitoring means and programmable control units are added to accurately monitor and control the height and force distribution of each sub-support surface, then the manufacturing precision and user comfort are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Monitoring means are integrated into each support element to detect the actual height position and force exerted by the user on each sub-support surface. This feedback information is transmitted to the programmable control unit, which processes the data and automatically adjusts the support elements to achieve optimal force distribution and surface shape, creating a closed-loop control system that enhances precision while automating the adjustment process
Solution Approach 2:
The programmable control unit autonomously processes monitoring data and controls the adjustment mechanisms without requiring manual intervention from the user. The system self-regulates the height and force distribution of each sub-support surface based on real-time feedback, enabling precise control while reducing the operational complexity for the end user
3Adaptability or versatility
If elastically bendable plates are used in the support elements to influence the shape of the main support surface, then the adaptability and comfort are improved, but the structural strength and stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Elastically bendable plates are incorporated as a key component of the support elements, allowing these plates to flex and change shape in response to user weight and positioning. This flexibility enables the main support surface to adapt its shape to conform to the user's body contours, providing enhanced comfort and pressure distribution while maintaining sufficient structural integrity through the elastic properties of the plates
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 device provides accurate adjustment of the support surface shape and force distribution, enhancing user comfort and reducing the risk of pressure-related injuries by ensuring even loading and minimizing pressure peaks.
Implementation Method 1
the adjustment means each comprise an electromotor that is situated on the concave side of the bending plate
Implementation Method 2
the support elements each comprise an elastically bendable plate (bending plate) that is connected to the adjustment means so as to be influenced thereby in its extent of bending
Data Source
AI summary
A support device has a main support surface for a person's body, including an auxiliary device influencing the main support surface shape. The auxiliary device includes: a group of supports supporting the main support surface, positioned on the side of the main support surface facing away from the body-supporting side, the supports each including a sub-support surface; an adjuster for each sub-support surface influencing the height of each sub-support surface. The device also includes a monitor for each sub-support surface monitoring the height of the respective sub-support surface; and a programmable control unit controlling the adjuster. The supports include an elastically bendable plate connected to the adjuster. The bending plate is connected to the sub-support surface to influence its height depending on the extent of bending imposed by the adjuster. The adjuster includes an electromotor on the concave side of the bending plate.