Massage device
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Solution Overview
Problem
In existing massage devices, air bags may sink into the seat cushion and seatback when inflated, leading to a decrease in the pressing force on the user.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an intermediate sheet that is stiffer than the support member between the air bag and the cushion member to prevent sinking, with the sheet being smaller than the air bag in plan view and joined at the central portion to maintain inflation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the air bag is made larger to increase pressing force, then the massage effect is improved, but the air bag sinks more into the seat cushion and seatback
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a support member as an intermediary component between the air bag and the seat cushion/seatback. This support member has a first region that contacts the air bag and a second region that contacts the seat cushion or seatback, providing structural support to prevent the air bag from sinking while allowing it to maintain its intended shape and pressing force.
2Shape
If a rigid support structure is added to prevent air bag sinking, then the air bag shape is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is designed with flexible connection portions that allow it to adapt dynamically to the inflation state of the air bag and the contours of the seat cushion or seatback. The connection portions can bend and deform to accommodate different positions and shapes, providing support without requiring a complex rigid structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support member utilizes flexible materials and thin-film structures to provide necessary support while maintaining simplicity. The flexible connection portions act as thin-film elements that can deform elastically to adapt to different configurations, reducing the need for complex mechanical joints or rigid frameworks.
3Force
If the support member is made stiffer to prevent sinking, then the air bag pressing force is maintained, but user comfort decreases due to protrusion
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is designed with different regions having different stiffness characteristics. The first region that contacts the air bag is relatively stiffer to maintain pressing force, while the second region that contacts the seat cushion or seatback is more flexible to conform to the seat surface and avoid protruding toward the user. The connection portions are flexible to bridge these different stiffness requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The support member extends in multiple dimensions with varying thickness and stiffness profiles. By designing the support member with different geometric characteristics in different directions and regions, it can provide structural support where needed while remaining compliant in other areas to ensure user comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
A massage device includes an air bag (41) that is configured to inflate with intake of air and that is configured to deflate with discharge of the air, a support member that supports the air bag (41), and an intermediate sheet (43) that is disposed between the air bag (41) and the support member and that is stiffer than the support member.