Inclined Protuberance Cushioning Structure for Directed Load Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cushioning systems, such as mattresses and shoe soles, lack effective deflection of force and limited load distribution due to their structural characteristics, resulting in inadequate cushioning and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising two parts with inclined protuberances of different densities, interlocking to form a single body that deflects force and distributes load optimally, providing both pressure and impact cushioning by varying the geometry and density of the parts to achieve desired rigidity and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional cushioning structures are used, then manufacturing is simple, but cushioning effectiveness and load distribution are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cushioning body is divided into multiple independent protuberances arranged in series, each capable of deflecting force independently. This segmentation allows the system to achieve superior cushioning effectiveness through cumulative deflection while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular construction
Solution Approach 2:
The protuberances are designed with asymmetric inclination angles relative to the vertical axis, creating directional force deflection capabilities. This asymmetric geometry enables optimized load distribution across different impact directions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
2Reliability
If uniform density material is used, then manufacturing is easier, but load distribution and comfort are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cushioning body incorporates regions of different material densities distributed throughout its structure, with denser regions positioned to handle higher loads and less dense regions providing compliance for lighter contacts. This local variation in material quality optimizes load distribution across different impact scenarios while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized material selection
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines multiple materials with different density characteristics within a single cushioning body, creating a composite structure that achieves superior load distribution. The composite approach allows optimization of comfort and performance while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through established composite material fabrication techniques
3Reliability
If protuberances are added to deflect force, then cushioning improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protuberances are designed with smooth curved surfaces and rounded geometries rather than sharp angles or complex contours. This curvature simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining effective force deflection capabilities, as the rounded shapes naturally redirect forces through elastic deformation without requiring precise geometric features
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves force deflection by varying parameters such as protuberance height, base diameter, and inclination angle rather than introducing complex geometric features. These parameter variations allow optimization of cushioning performance while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standard forming processes
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 system achieves enhanced cushioning, improved load distribution, and ergonomic benefits by deflecting force and adjusting to different weights, leading to better comfort and reduced production costs through optimized material usage and ventilation.
Implementation Method 1
These parts will be made of a significantly elastic material, and each part will be of a different density... due to the elastic response of the series of protuberances
Data Source
AI summary
The system is based on the combination of two parts (1 and 1′) of differing densities with complementary tilted protuberances (2 and 2′), coupled to form a single unit. These protuberances vary in shape, length and thickness so that systems of differing rigidity can be obtained, thus achieving cushioning in virtue of the said protuberances (2 and 2′), enabling the path of the force applied to be defined, thus achieving optimum cushioning force. The system is applicable to both pressure cushioning systems (mattresses, pillows, seats, etc.) and impact cushioning systems (footwear, wheels, helmets, etc.).