Multi-Phase Cushion Pad for Impact Energy Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional impact-resistant pads composed of a single uniform material lose elasticity and effectiveness over time, and liquid-based pads suffer from leakage through small holes, failing to adequately absorb impact energy.
Innovation Solution
An impact-resistant pad design incorporating a sealed accommodation space with multiple cushion materials of varying phases, including solid, liquid, and vapor, which interact to absorb impact energy through a combination of elastic sheets, spongy structures, and viscous fluids, ensuring effective energy absorption and retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single solid cushioning material is used, then the pad provides initial impact absorption, but it loses elasticity and deforms after long-term use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cushioning materials with different phases (solid, liquid, gel) into a single composite pad structure. The solid particles provide structural support and rebound, the gel material provides viscous damping and energy absorption, while the liquid component fills gaps and provides additional cushioning. This merging of different material types creates a synergistic effect that maintains impact absorption capability over extended service life without the deformation issues of single-material pads.
Solution Approach 2:
The pad employs a composite material system consisting of solid particles (such as EPP, TPE, or silica gel particles), gel material (viscoelastic polymer), and liquid cushioning agent enclosed within a flexible outer layer. This composite structure leverages the complementary properties of each material: solid particles provide elasticity and shape retention, gel provides shock absorption and damping, and liquid provides additional cushioning and fills void spaces. The composite nature ensures long-term durability and consistent performance.
2Ease of operation
If a liquid cushioning material is used, then the pad maintains flexibility, but the liquid escapes through small holes causing loss of function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible outer layer (shell) that encloses the liquid cushioning material while preventing leakage. This flexible shell maintains the pad's overall flexibility and conformability while providing a sealed containment environment. The shell is designed to be sufficiently robust to prevent liquid escape through small holes or defects, yet flexible enough to allow the pad to deform and adapt to different shapes and impact conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid cushioning material is nested within the flexible outer layer, creating a contained subsystem. This nested structure allows the liquid to provide cushioning benefits while being protected from leakage. The gel material is also nested within the same enclosure, creating a multi-layered nested arrangement where each material is contained and works synergistically without compromising functional integrity.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional single-material pads are used, then the manufacturing is simple, but the energy absorption effectiveness is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cushioning system is segmented into distinct material components (solid particles, gel material, liquid) that can be separately manufactured and then combined. This segmentation allows each material to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing processes. The solid particles can be produced through standard particle formation techniques, the gel can be prepared separately, and the liquid component can be independently formulated, then all are combined within the flexible outer layer in a straightforward assembly process.
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 multi-phase cushioning system provides enhanced impact protection and energy absorption, maintaining effectiveness over time without leakage, as demonstrated by improved performance in impact tests compared to pads made of single materials or those containing only liquid cushions.
Implementation Method 1
when the cushioning material is a solid material such as cotton, foam, rubber, silica gel or latex, it will lose original elasticity and deform after long-term use
Implementation Method 2
the kinematic viscosity of the liquid cushion is within a range of 7.5 ̃35
Implementation Method 3
the cushion sealed inside the accommodation space comprises a plurality of cushion materials with various phases
Data Source
AI summary
A pad comprises a first sheet, a second sheet and a cushion. The outer periphery of the second sheet is attached to the first sheet, making a closed accommodation space between the first sheet and the second sheet for being filled with cushions. The cushion comprises a plurality of cushions with various phases and those cushions contact each other, so that energy is absorbed during collision or impact by means of multiple cushions with various phases simultaneously.