Elastic Head Support Structure for Range of Motion and Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head supports are too rigid, limiting the range of motion for the human head while resting, causing discomfort due to restricted movement and difficulty in returning to a neutral position.
Innovation Solution
A body support system comprising a top plate, a bottom plate, and a plurality of elastic cushions that provide semi-rigid support and allow for effortless maneuverability, featuring a semi-rigid top and bottom plate with cushion receiving spaces and elastic cushions that facilitate movement without excessive friction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid head supports are used, then neck strain is reduced through stable support, but the range of motion for the human head is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the support material from rigid to elastic, allowing the support to deform and return. This enables the head support to provide stable support when needed while allowing range of motion during positioning, resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic characteristics by using elastic cushions that can deform under load and return to their original position. This dynamic behavior allows the support to adapt to different head positions and movements while maintaining support functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If elastic cushions are used to increase range of motion, then maneuverability is improved, but starting friction increases limiting movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the elastic parameters of the cushion material to achieve a balance between providing sufficient friction for support and minimizing starting friction that would hinder movement initiation. The elastic modulus and surface properties are selected to reduce static friction while maintaining support
3Stability of the object's composition
If suspension systems with limited movement are used, then head placement is maintained, but the desirable wide range of motion is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid suspension systems with elastic cushions that exhibit dynamic deformation characteristics. The cushions can accommodate a wide range of motion during positioning while their elastic recovery property maintains head placement stability, resolving the contradiction between stability and adaptability
4Stability of the object's composition
If rigid support structures are used, then support stability is provided, but maneuverability during positioning and repositioning is inhibited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the rigid support structure into a dynamic system using elastic cushions. These cushions provide stability through their elastic recovery force while allowing easy maneuverability during positioning and repositioning, as they deform to accommodate movement and then return to maintain support
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 body support system enables a greater range of motion for the head, allowing easy repositioning and return to a neutral position, reducing neck strain and providing stability and comfort during use.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of elastic cushions (30) positioned to engage between the top plate (10) and the bottom plate (20)
Data Source
AI summary
A body support is provided for a support structure. The body support includes a top plate, a bottom plate, and plurality of elastic cushions. The top plate includes a first planar surface, while the bottom plate includes a second planar surface facing the first planar surface. The plurality of elastic cushions is disposed between and positioned to engage the top plate and the bottom plate.