Flexible Internal Frame Backrest for Lightweight Outdoor Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional foldable chairs and blankets lack back support, making them uncomfortable for extended periods of use, and rigid backrests with external frames are heavy and difficult to carry.
Innovation Solution
A foldable ground mat with a self-supported backrest featuring internal frame members and flexible support sheets that deform under user load, providing a comfortable lounging experience while being lightweight and easy to transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid backrests with external frames are used, then back support is provided, but weight increases and portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid external frames with flexible internal frame members enclosed within a fabric cover. The internal frame members (vertical and horizontal) provide structural support while being flexible enough to allow the backrest to conform to the user's back, eliminating the need for heavy external rigid frames.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using an external rigid frame structure, the patent inverts the approach by placing the frame structure internally within the fabric cover. This internal framing system provides the necessary support while maintaining flexibility and reducing overall weight compared to external rigid frames.
2Strength
If foldable chairs are used, then back support is provided, but device complexity and bulk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest is divided into multiple panels (first backrest panel, second backrest panel, third backrest panel) connected by hinges, allowing each panel to be independently positioned. This segmentation enables the backrest to adapt to different user preferences and provides back support without requiring a complex rigid chair structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The backrest panels are connected through hinges that allow dynamic adjustment of the backrest angle and configuration. The flexible internal frame members also allow dynamic conformation to the user's back shape, providing adaptive support rather than a fixed rigid structure.
3Weight of moving object
If blankets are used, then portability is improved, but back support is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible fabric cover with internal frame members that provides both the portability of a blanket and the back support of a chair. The flexible material allows the backrest to conform to the user's back while the internal frame members provide the necessary structural 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 flexible internal frame design allows the backrest to conform to the user, offering improved comfort and reducing bulk, making it suitable for outdoor use without the need for heavy external frames.
Implementation Method 1
the backrest panel is configured to deform under a weight of a user applied to the back support when in the first position
Implementation Method 2
The flexible internal frame design allows the backrest to conform to the user
Implementation Method 3
the hinge connection between the backrest panel and the support panel comprises webbing attached to both the backrest panel and the support panel
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a back support with a ground mat. The back support may include a backrest panel and a support panel having an internal frame member and a flexible support sheet. The backrest panel and support panel can be connected with a hinge. The back support may further include a ground mat portion having one or more ground mat panels. The back support may be configured to be placed in multiple positions, including a first position to support a user, a second position for transporting the back support, and a third flattened position.