Elastic Module with Reversible Locking for Compact Mattress Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elastic mattresses with disassemblable springs face challenges in compact storage due to the need for rigid fixing structures that compromise user comfort during transportation and use.
Innovation Solution
An elastic module with a base plate and elastic units featuring fixed and flexible ends, utilizing locking structures for detachable connections that allow units to be compressed for storage while maintaining comfort by reversing their orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If springs are fixed in a compressed state using a rigid fixing structure for transportation, then storage space is reduced, but the hardness of the contact surface increases, reducing user comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is divided into multiple independent locking structures, each capable of independently locking an elastic unit in either compressed or released state. This segmentation allows different regions to have different states, enabling compact storage while preserving comfort zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking structures are designed to be dynamically adjustable between locked and unlocked states. The elastic units can be locked in compressed state for transportation, then unlocked and flipped to released state for use, allowing the system to adapt between storage and usage modes.
Solution Approach 3:
The elastic units are designed to be flipped 180 degrees between compressed and released states. By inverting the orientation of the elastic unit, the same component can serve both storage (compressed) and usage (released) functions, resolving the contradiction between compact storage and user comfort.
2Productivity
If elastic units are allowed to be disassembled for compact storage, then transportation efficiency is improved, but the complexity of the locking mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking structures utilize the elastic deformation of the elastic units themselves to achieve locking. The elastic unit's own elasticity provides the locking force, eliminating the need for external motors, sensors, or complex control systems. The system locks and unlocks through its own mechanical properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking structure acts as an intermediary between the elastic unit and the base plate. It provides a simple mechanical interface that enables detachable connection without requiring complex mechanisms. The locking structure mediates the connection while maintaining simplicity through geometric interlocking.
3Stability of the object's composition
If elastic units are fixed rigidly to the base plate, then structural stability is improved, but the ability to compress for storage is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between elastic units and base plate is segmented into multiple independent locking points. Each locking structure provides localized stability while allowing the overall system to be reconfigured. The segmented locking allows compression when locked and expansion when unlocked.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking structures provide dynamic connectivity - they can transition from locked (stable) to unlocked (mobile) states. This dynamic connection enables the system to switch between stable installed configuration and compressed storage configuration, maintaining both structural stability and compressibility.
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
Enables compact storage of elastic units while ensuring user comfort by allowing them to be fixed in a compressed state for transportation and easily restored for use, maintaining comfort and ease of handling.
Implementation Method 1
The base plate comprises a plurality of locking structures configured to be interlocked with the fixed end, and the fixed end comprises a locking cooperation structure configured to be detachably matched with a corresponding one of the plurality of locking structures
Implementation Method 2
Each of the plurality of elastic units comprises a fixed end and a flexible end... Each of the plurality of elastic units in a released state is configured to be placed on the base plate in a first direction... Each of the plurality of elastic units is configured to be placed on the base plate in a second direction, so that a corresponding one of the plurality of elastic units is configured to be fixed in a compressed state
Data Source
AI summary
An elastic module includes a base plate and a plurality of elastic units. Each of the plurality of elastic units includes a fixed end and a flexible end. The base plate includes a plurality of locking structures, and the fixed end includes a locking cooperation structure. Each of the plurality of elastic units in a released state is configured to be placed on the base plate in a first direction through an interlocked connection between the plurality of locking structures and the locking cooperation structure. Each of the plurality of elastic units is configured to be placed on the base plate in a second direction, so that the plurality of elastic units are configured to be fixed in a compressed state through the interlocked connection along a release direction of the plurality of elastic units. The first direction and the second direction are opposite directions.