Dynamic Cushion Support With Segmented Bladders for Pressure Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for preventing pressure sores, such as manual repositioning and traditional seat cushions, are inadequate and disruptive, especially for individuals with limited mobility, and existing active cushions have shortcomings like bulkiness, reliance on power sources, and vulnerability to bladder failures.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic support apparatus featuring a foam support with progressively increasing indentation force deflection values, actuated by fluid-filled bladders with pressure relief valves and sensors, and a control system that adjusts fluid distribution to maintain optimal pressure and prevent sore formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If traditional seat cushions are used to distribute pressure, then pressure distribution is improved, but the cushion becomes bulky and requires manual repositioning which is disruptive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using inflatable bladders that can dynamically adjust their volume and pressure distribution in response to detected pressure points. The system transitions from a static cushion to a dynamic one that actively responds to changing conditions, eliminating the need for manual repositioning while maintaining pressure distribution benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through pressure sensors that continuously monitor pressure distribution and provide information to a control system. The control system then adjusts bladder inflation levels based on this feedback, creating a closed-loop system that automatically maintains optimal pressure distribution without requiring user intervention
2Stress or pressure
If interconnected bladders are used in active cushions, then pressure redistribution is improved, but reliability deteriorates when one bladder is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the cushion into multiple independent bladder compartments separated by partitions. When one bladder is compromised, the partitions prevent failure from propagating to other bladders, allowing the cushion to maintain functionality through the affected area while other segments continue to provide support
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the harmful effect of interconnectedness by removing the connections between bladders and replacing them with partitions. This isolation strategy eliminates the cascade failure risk while preserving the pressure redistribution capability of individual bladders
3Stress or pressure
If pneumatic cushions are used for pressure relief, then pressure relief is improved, but device complexity increases due to power requirements and bladder replacement difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service through passive pressure relief mechanisms that utilize the weight of the user and elastic recovery properties of materials to provide pressure relief without requiring external power sources. The system automatically responds to pressure application and releases pressure through controlled deflation pathways, eliminating complex power requirements
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 apparatus provides effective and comfortable pressure distribution, reducing the risk of pressure sores by dynamically adjusting support based on real-time pressure data, ensuring consistent support even when bladders are compromised or power is limited.
Implementation Method 1
at least one actuator wherein the at least one actuator defines an interior volume and wherein the interior volume may be configured to be at least partially filled with a fluid
Implementation Method 2
a foam support with progressively increasing indentation force deflection values
Data Source
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AI summary
A dynamic support apparatus. The dynamic support apparatus includes a cushion, at least one actuator wherein the at least one actuator defines an interior volume and wherein the interior volume may be configured to be at least partially filled with a fluid, and a support disposed in the interior volume wherein the support configured to support an occupant when the interior volume is not filled with the fluid such that the support is sufficient to support the occupant.