Elastomeric Load Bearing Surface With Integral Frame Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load bearing assemblies, particularly molded elastomeric surfaces, face challenges in providing adequate support and comfort due to their linear force/deflection profile and limited tunability, and they often require separate fasteners for attachment to support structures, which are costly and unattractive.
Innovation Solution
A molded elastomeric load bearing surface with an integral attachment mechanism, where opposite ends include tabs and receptacles for secure attachment to a support structure, and the membrane is oriented to align crystalline structure for reduced creep and customizable support characteristics, eliminating the need for separate fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If separate fasteners are used to attach the load bearing surface to the support structure, then the attachment strength is improved, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is merged with the load bearing surface itself. The elastomeric surface includes integral attachment features such as recesses, protrusions, or molded-in fastening elements that directly engage with the support frame, eliminating the need for separate fasteners and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining secure attachment
2Device complexity
If molded receptacle holes are created in the support frame for snap-fit attachment, then the use of separate fasteners is eliminated, but the manufacturing complexity and cost of the frame increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of molding receptacles into the rigid support frame, the invention inverts the approach by creating protrusions or attachment features on the elastomeric load bearing surface itself that engage with simple openings or slots in the frame. This allows the flexible surface to accommodate the attachment features while the rigid frame remains simpler to manufacture
3Strength
If the elastomeric membrane is made thicker to provide necessary support, then the support characteristics are improved, but the comfort decreases due to increased rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric load bearing surface incorporates variable thickness regions or localized reinforcement zones rather than uniform thickness throughout. Thinner regions provide comfort and flexibility where needed, while thicker or reinforced regions provide additional support in areas requiring higher structural integrity, achieving both comfort and support characteristics simultaneously
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 comfortable, durable, and cost-effective load bearing surface that is easily secured to a support structure, reducing creep and allowing for tailored support profiles without additional fasteners, enhancing manufacturing efficiency and comfort control.
Implementation Method 1
by orienting the membrane to align the crystalline structure of the elastomeric material in one direction
Implementation Method 2
by increasing the alignment of the crystalline structure of the elastomeric material, the level of creep in the membrane can be dramatically reduced
Implementation Method 3
molded elastomeric membrane... provides different degrees of support in different directions
Data Source
AI summary
An elastomeric load bearing surface includes an integral attachment mechanism, wherein portions of the load bearing surface attach to each other to secure the load bearing surface to a support structure. In one embodiment, a molded elastomeric strip includes a tab that wraps around a support structure frame member, and a receptacle that receives and retains the first portion. The load bearing surface may be formed from a plurality of molded elastomeric strips, each having a tab extending around the frame member and an opening receiving the tab. The strips may be oriented to reduce creep by aligning the crystalline structure of the elastomer in one direction.