Elastomeric Edge Load Bearing Assembly for Comfort and Creep Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load bearing assemblies for seating and similar applications face challenges in providing a durable, comfortable, and cost-effective solution that is easy to manufacture, as thicker plastic materials are rigid and uncomfortable, while thinner plastic surfaces tend to deform over time, and elastomeric fabrics are expensive to produce.
Innovation Solution
A molded plastic retainer with integrally molded elastic connectors, oriented to enhance crystalline alignment in one direction, is used to support a load bearing surface over an opening, allowing for a durable and flexible assembly that can utilize inexpensive materials and reduce creep.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If thicker plastic materials are used for the load bearing surface, then durability is improved, but comfort deteriorates because the surface becomes rigid
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a composite structure combining a plastic retainer with elastomeric connectors (such as rubber or silicone) to create a load bearing assembly that integrates both rigid support and flexible comfort properties. The elastomeric material provides the necessary compliance and comfort while the plastic retainer provides structural durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the connectors by using elastomeric materials with specific durometer values (e.g., 30-70 Shore A) and configuring them with varying lengths, diameters, and cross-sectional areas to achieve the desired balance between comfort and durability for different applications.
2Ease of operation
If thinner plastic surfaces are used for the load bearing surface, then comfort is improved, but durability deteriorates because the surfaces permanently deform (creep) over time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a composite structure combining a plastic retainer with elastomeric connectors (such as rubber or silicone) to create a load bearing assembly that integrates both rigid support and flexible comfort properties. The elastomeric material provides the necessary compliance and comfort while the plastic retainer provides structural durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the connectors by using elastomeric materials with specific durometer values (e.g., 30-70 Shore A) and configuring them with varying lengths, diameters, and cross-sectional areas to achieve the desired balance between comfort and durability for different applications.
3Ease of operation
If elastomeric fabrics are used as load bearing surfaces, then comfort is improved, but manufacturing cost increases due to expensive machinery requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses thin elastomeric connectors (such as rubber or silicone) in the form of strips, bands, or films that can be easily manufactured using conventional molding techniques. These flexible elements provide the necessary comfort properties without requiring complex fabric weaving or expensive stretching machinery.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the connectors by using elastomeric materials with specific durometer values (e.g., 30-70 Shore A) and configuring them with varying lengths, diameters, and cross-sectional areas to achieve the desired balance between comfort and durability for different applications.
4Reliability
If the crystalline structure of elastic connectors is highly aligned in one direction, then creep resistance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases due to the orientation process
Solution Approach 1:
The invention performs the crystalline orientation of elastomeric connectors as a preliminary action during the molding process itself, rather than as a separate post-processing step. This allows the connectors to be molded with pre-oriented crystalline structures that provide creep resistance while integrating the orientation step into the existing manufacturing workflow.
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 solution provides a durable, flexible load bearing surface that is inexpensive to manufacture, reduces creep, and allows for the use of various materials, enhancing comfort and durability by altering the load bearing characteristics of the connectors.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic connector integrally molded with the retainer. The elastic connector is oriented such that it includes a crystalline structure having a greater degree of alignment in one direction than in other directions
Implementation Method 2
thinner plastic surfaces, such as membranes or woven plastic fibers tend to permanently deform (or creep) over time
Data Source
AI summary
A load bearing assembly includes a molded plastic retainer that supports a load bearing surface over an opening defined by a frame. The molded plastic retainer includes a first portion attached to the frame, a second portion attached to the load bearing surface, and at least one elastic connector integrally molded with the retainer. The elastic connector is oriented such that it includes a crystalline structure having a greater degree of alignment in one direction than in other directions.