Mattress and adjustable foundation selection system and process

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Solution Overview

Problem

Consumers face difficulties in selecting a mattress and adjustable foundation due to lack of technical information, subjective assessment of comfort and support, and differing sleep positions, leading to frustration and potential mismatch of products with their needs.

Innovation Solution

A system incorporating a pressure sensor pad and adjustable foundation that displays a contour map of localized pressure changes, allowing consumers to visualize and adjust firmness levels and foundation configurations in real-time, facilitating a more informed selection based on individual preferences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If consumers rely on verbal descriptions and subjective assessment to select mattresses, then the selection process is simple and quick, but the accuracy of matching mattress to consumer needs deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of mattress selectionVSAvoidcomplexity of selection system

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical/subjective assessment method (verbal descriptions and manual testing) with an electronic measurement system. Pressure sensors embedded in the mattress surface electronically measure pressure distribution, converting subjective comfort assessment into objective quantitative data that can be displayed and analyzed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary measurement system between the consumer and the mattress selection decision. The pressure sensor pad and display system act as intermediaries that translate the complex interaction between body and mattress into visual pressure distribution maps, facilitating more informed decisions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If consumers test mattresses in multiple positions to accurately assess comfort, then the accuracy of selection improves, but the time required for selection increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of comfort assessmentVSAvoidtime for mattress selection

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables continuous measurement of pressure distribution as consumers change positions on the mattress. Rather than requiring discrete, time-consuming evaluation steps, the system continuously captures pressure data across different positions and configurations, allowing consumers to efficiently assess multiple scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent allows consumers to pre-adjust the mattress to different firmness levels and configurations before testing. The adjustable foundation and mattress firmness control enable consumers to set up multiple test configurations in advance, so that when they lie down, the mattress is already configured for optimal assessment of specific scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If retailers provide extensive mattress options to meet diverse consumer needs, then the versatility of selection improves, but the complexity of the selection process increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverange of mattress optionsVSAvoidcomplexity of comparison process

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables consumers to systematically vary key parameters of the mattress (firmness level, foundation angle, support configuration) and immediately observe the effects on pressure distribution. This parameter-based approach allows consumers to explore diverse mattress configurations without being overwhelmed by the full range of retail options, as they can focus on adjusting the most relevant parameters for their needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables consumers to make objective assessments of comfort and support, leading to a better night's sleep by providing a tailored mattress and foundation that meets specific needs, reducing returns and improving the shopping experience.

Implementation Method 1

a pressure sensor pad configured to detect localized pressure changes on a sleeping surface

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure sensing:

Data Source

PatentUS11013344B2Mattress and adjustable foundation selection system and process

Publication Date: 2021.05.25 NATIONAL BEDDING CO LLC

AI summary

A mattress and adjustable foundation selection system and process generally includes a mattress having a pressure sensor pad configured to detect localized pressure changes on a sleeping surface as a function of a subject lying on the mattress optionally while the comfort of said mattress is adjusted by means of one or more fluid filled chambers; an adjustable foundation adjustably supporting the mattress and configured to change the mattress from a planar configuration to a non-planar configuration; and a display for displaying a contour map associated with the localized pressure changes. The method includes positioning a subject in a sleeping position on a planar surface of a mattress operatively coupled to an adjustable foundation; displaying to the subject a contour map of localized pressure changes as a function of positioning the subject on the mattress planar surface; adjusting the adjustable foundation and changing the planar surface to a non-planar surface; and displaying to the subject a contour map of the localized pressure changes associated with the mattress non-planar surface.