Modular mattresses

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional mattresses lack customization options for firmness, thickness, and breathability, leading to discomfort and difficulty in replacing worn-out components, resulting in premature disposal and increased costs.

Innovation Solution

A modular mattress system comprising multiple foam layers with varying densities and thicknesses, using hook and loop fasteners for easy assembly and disassembly, and microfiber covers to prevent movement, allowing users to customize firmness and breathability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional mattresses are used, then they provide basic support function, but they lack customization options for firmness, thickness, and breathability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization optionsVSAvoidmattress structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mattress is divided into multiple independent modules (head section, foot section, and optionally waist section) that can be independently selected and assembled. Each module contains separate support layers and comfort layers with different firmness and thickness options, allowing customization without increasing overall structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mattress modules are designed with universal connection mechanisms (zippers, fasteners) that allow different firmness and thickness combinations to be assembled into a complete mattress system. The same module design can serve multiple sleeping positions and preferences through selective assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of repair

If mattresses are made as single integrated units, then they provide complete support, but replacing worn-out components requires complete mattress replacement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent replacementVSAvoidmattress construction
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mattress is constructed as separate modular sections (head, foot, and optionally waist) that can be independently removed and replaced. When one section becomes worn or soiled, only that specific module needs to be replaced rather than the entire mattress, reducing repair complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular design allows users to discard only the worn-out mattress sections while retaining and reusing the still-functional modules. This extends the overall lifecycle of the mattress system and reduces waste.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Ease of operation

If modular mattresses use zippers for assembly, then they allow easy disassembly, but zippers can be damaged due to wear and tear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly and disassemblyVSAvoidfastener durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces alternative fastening mechanisms such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snap buttons, or Velcro straps as intermediary connection methods between mattress modules. These fasteners distribute stress more evenly and are less prone to damage from repeated assembly and disassembly compared to traditional zippers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Ease of operation

If mattress modules are placed without friction resistance, then they are easy to assemble, but modules can move during use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule assemblyVSAvoidmattress stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates friction-resistant intermediary materials such as rubber strips, non-slip fabric layers, or textured surfaces between mattress modules. These intermediaries provide sufficient friction to prevent module movement during use while maintaining ease of assembly through simple fastening mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 modular design provides optimal comfort, extends the life of the mattress by allowing incremental upgrades and replacements, reducing costs, and ensuring comfort for different sleeping positions.

Implementation Method 1

modular mattresses with microfiber covers to hold or grip the other mattresses and prevents movements of the mattresses while using

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

The 3 modules of mattresses are made of a material, but not limited to, a foam material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11849847B1Modular mattresses
Publication Date: 2023.12.26 HEATH JARED
  • US11849847B1 patent drawing
  • US11849847B1 patent drawing
  • US11849847B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention discloses a modular mattress that allows for customization of the overall firmness, thickness, and breathability of the mattress along with providing an optimal comfort to users. The modular mattresses comprise at least three modules of mattresses with different thicknesses include a lower, a middle, and a top mattress. The lower and middle mattresses are made of a material includes a polyurethane foam and the top mattress is made of a material made of a gel-infused viscoelastic memory foam. The mattresses are covered by a microfiber fabric cover. The cover of each mattress further comprises a hook and loop fabrics and rubberization. The hook fabric of the cover of the lower mattress mates with a center section of loop fabric sewn into a lower surface of the middle mattress to prevent movements during use. The modular mattresses provide optimum comfort to the user while sleeping and resting.