Mattress Airflow Conduits for Targeted Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for modulating temperature and partial pressure of water vapor in the vicinity of a person supported by a person support apparatus are inadequate, as they fail to effectively direct fluid flow to targeted regions within a mattress.
Innovation Solution
A mattress system comprising a base support layer and insert support layers that form conduits for fluid flow, with a fluid supply and controller to meter and direct airflow to specific target regions, providing non-uniform resistance and distribution patterns to concentrate airflow under the user.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional air flow systems are used to modulate temperature and partial pressure, then temperature and humidity control is achieved, but the airflow is not effectively directed to targeted regions within the mattress
Solution Approach 1:
The mattress is divided into multiple independent flow channels, each capable of directing airflow to specific target regions. The insert support layer contains discrete channels that segment the airflow path, allowing precise control of fluid delivery to different body zones without requiring complex external control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the mattress are designed with different fluid flow resistance characteristics. The insert support layer creates zones with varying resistance to fluid flow, allowing targeted regions to receive appropriate airflow amounts based on local needs rather than uniform distribution, improving precision without adding operational complexity.
2Temperature
If uniform fluid flow distribution is used throughout the mattress, then simple system design is maintained, but effective temperature modulation under the user is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The insert support layer introduces non-uniform fluid flow resistance at different locations within the mattress. This creates higher airflow concentration in regions where the user's body contacts the mattress, enhancing temperature modulation effectiveness. The complexity is embedded in the passive structure of the insert layer rather than active control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert support layer functions as a porous structure with controlled void spaces that regulate fluid flow distribution. The porous architecture naturally directs fluid flow to areas of need based on pressure differentials created by user weight, achieving enhanced temperature control without requiring complex active distribution systems.
3Ease of manufacture
If the mattress structure is simplified without insert support layers, then manufacturing is easier, but the ability to provide non-uniform resistance to fluid flow is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The insert support layer is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently manufactured and then integrated into the mattress assembly. This segmentation allows the complex flow-resistance functionality to be produced using standardized manufacturing processes and simply inserted into the mattress, maintaining ease of assembly while providing advanced fluid flow control.
Solution Approach 2:
The mattress is constructed as a composite structure combining the base support layer with the insert support layer. Each layer has distinct properties, and their combination creates the desired non-uniform fluid flow resistance distribution. This composite approach allows versatile functionality to be achieved through material and structural composition rather than complex manufacturing 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 effectively directs airflow to targeted regions, enhancing temperature and partial pressure modulation, improving comfort and support by concentrating airflow under the user, while allowing for adaptive adjustments based on weight distribution and occupant position.
Implementation Method 1
a conduit to allow fluid flow through the conduit
Implementation Method 2
the at least one insert support layer may be configured to provide non-uniform resistance to fluid flow through it
Data Source
AI summary
A system for directing fluid flow in a mattress is disclosed. The mattress comprises a base support layer which is configured to spatially locate at least one insert support layer. The insert layer comprises a conduit to allow fluid flow.