Interactive Spring Seating Element for Lordosis Support
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bed and seat pads fail to universally support ergonomically different bodies by maintaining the spine in a natural position while ensuring point elasticity, often resulting in counterproductive support and lack of pressure distribution in the lordosis area.
Innovation Solution
Interactive spring elements with varying spring characteristics and devices that generate a higher counter-pressure vertically than horizontally, allowing for progressive, linear, or combined spring characteristics to support bodies of different weights and comfort requirements, with adjustable pressure distribution using straps and materials like foam or metal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If homogeneous spring elements are used to distribute pressure evenly, then pressure distribution is improved, but point elasticity is lost and the spine cannot be supported in its natural position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by giving different parts of the spring element different functions: the central region provides softer support for point elasticity and circulation, while the peripheral regions provide harder support for pressure distribution and spine alignment. This resolves the contradiction by making each zone optimized for its specific function rather than using uniform springs throughout.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element is segmented into multiple zones with different spring constants - a central zone with lower stiffness and peripheral zones with higher stiffness. This segmentation allows the single element to simultaneously provide both point elasticity in the center and pressure distribution at the edges, resolving the contradiction between these two requirements.
2Strength
If softer spring elements are used to support the lordosis area, then spine support is improved, but the heavier body parts (shoulders and buttocks) receive insufficient support
Solution Approach 1:
Different zones of the spring element have different local properties: the central zone under the lordosis area has softer springs for gentle support, while the peripheral zones under shoulders and buttocks have harder springs for stronger support. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between supporting delicate and heavy body parts simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element dynamically adapts to different body weights and positions through its zoned structure. When a person lies on it, the appropriate zones are activated based on body weight distribution, providing automatically adjusted support levels without manual intervention.
3Force
If harder spring elements are used to support heavier body parts, then force support is improved, but pressure points are created and circulation is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element creates softer zones specifically positioned under areas prone to pressure points, allowing heavy body parts to be supported with adequate force while preventing localized pressure concentration. The harder springs are positioned in zones where pressure distribution is needed rather than point support.
4Adaptability or versatility
If zoned spring elements are used to support different body parts, then body support is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple spring elements with different characteristics are merged into a single integrated support structure. Rather than using separate components for different body zones, the patent combines them into one element that functions as a unified system, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining zoned functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element uses composite construction with different material properties in different zones - varying spring constants, materials, or configurations within a single element. This allows complex functionality to be achieved through material composition rather than mechanical assembly complexity.
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 effectively supports the spine in the lordosis area and promotes point elasticity, distributing pressure evenly to prevent pressure points and enhance blood circulation, suitable for a wide range of body types and comfort needs.
Implementation Method 1
spring elements that interactively support the body ergonomically
Implementation Method 2
bed and seat pad with spring elements
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a lying and seating element consisting of one or more interactive spring elements, characterised in that one or more spring elements (1, 1'), fully or partially and by means of shapings (2, 2', 3, 3', 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 18, 19) and/or devices (10, 12, 13, 13', 13", 14, 15, 16, 17, 20), applies against exerted pressure A a counter pressure A' higher than is the case of pressure B, which is exerted from the other side and against which a lower resistance B' is set, and as a result pressure A builds counter pressure A" in the relevant adjoining region.