Flexible Body Support Assembly for Adaptive Seating Comfort

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing body support assemblies, such as chair systems, face limitations in flexibility and comfort due to rigid frames and suspension materials that are not adequately compliant, leading to unforgiving pressure points and inadequate air circulation.

Innovation Solution

A body support assembly design featuring a flexible carrier frame with integrated textile material and a cushion, where the textile material is secured across a central opening and engages with a support ring, providing macro and micro compliance, and incorporating flex regions in the frame and links to allow for user adaptation and reduced rigidity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a rigid frame is used to maintain tension in suspension material, then the suspension material can be properly supported, but the flexibility of the body support member is limited and pressure points are created

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveframe rigidityVSAvoidbody support flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the rigid frame with a flexible membrane structure that can conform to body contours while maintaining structural integrity. The membrane acts as both the supporting framework and the suspension material interface, eliminating rigid edges that create pressure points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical state and properties of the frame material from rigid to flexible, allowing it to dynamically adapt its stiffness based on applied loads. This enables the frame to provide support when needed while maintaining flexibility for comfort and air circulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Force

If suspension material is installed on a seat to support user load, then load bearing capacity is improved, but the flexibility and comfort are reduced due to required higher tensions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveload bearing capacityVSAvoidseating flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a composite structure combining membrane material with suspension material, where each layer performs its optimal function. The membrane provides structural support and flexibility, while the suspension material handles load bearing, creating a synergistic system that achieves both strength and comfort.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Adaptability or versatility

If mechanical systems like lumbar supports and tilt control mechanisms are added to provide adjustment capabilities, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost, maintenance requirements, and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustment capabilitiesVSAvoidmechanical system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the membrane structure to automatically adapt to user body shape and positioning without requiring mechanical adjustment mechanisms. The membrane's inherent flexibility and elastic properties enable it to self-adjust to different users and positions, eliminating the need for complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11602223B2Body support assembly and methods for the use and assembly thereof

Publication Date: 2023.03.14 STEELCASE INC

AI summary

A body support assembly includes a seat assembly and backrest assembly supported by tilt control assembly. Methods of using and assembling the body support assembly are provided.