Parallel-Indentation Cushion Structure for Linear Load Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable seat cushions made of low-density foam lose comfort over time due to compression and fail to return to their original shape, providing inadequate support and comfort for users.
Innovation Solution
A cushioning system combining a SKYDEX flexible plastic cushioning material layer with a visco-elastic foam layer, enclosed in a moisture-resistant bag, offering a nearly linear force-deflection curve for enhanced comfort and durability, with the foam layer contoured for optimal user positioning and the SKYDEX layer allowing air and moisture flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If low-density foam is used for portable seat cushions, then the cushion is lightweight and portable, but the foam compresses too much and fails to return to its original shape, providing little or no comfort after several hours of use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines SKYDEX plastic cushioning material with visco-elastic foam layer in a composite structure. The SKYDEX layer provides the necessary support and shape retention, while the foam layer provides comfort. This composite material approach resolves the contradiction by integrating materials with complementary properties to achieve both portability and long-term comfort durability.
2Reliability
If SKYDEX plastic cushioning material is used, then a linear force-deflection curve is achieved for maximum comfort, but the material requires enclosure to protect from moisture and is harder to clean than foam
Solution Approach 1:
The patent encloses the SKYDEX plastic cushioning material and foam layer in a flexible fabric enclosure. This thin film enclosure protects the SKYDEX material from moisture while maintaining the linear force-deflection curve for comfort consistency. The enclosure is designed to be removable or washable to address the cleaning difficulty.
3Ease of operation
If foam layer is added for comfort, then user comfort is improved, but the overall device complexity increases with multiple layers and enclosure requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cushioning system into distinct functional layers: a SKYDEX plastic cushioning material layer for support and a visco-elastic foam layer for comfort. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall system manageability through clear functional differentiation.
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 combination provides sustained comfort and reduced pressure points by maintaining a linear force-deflection curve, minimizing discomfort and allowing for easy portability and cleaning, while the moisture-resistant bag extends product lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
The SKYDEX plastic cushioning material layer provides a nearly linear force-deflection curve which allows for maximum comfort throughout the compression and shock cycle
Implementation Method 2
a visco-elastic foam layer, enclosed in a moisture resistant bag. The SKYDEX plastic cushioning material layer provides a nearly linear force-deflection curve
Implementation Method 3
both layers are enclosed in a moisture resistant bag
Data Source
AI summary
A cushion comprises a first surface made of flexible high polymer resin; a second surface made of flexible high polymer resin, in at least partially coextensive relation to the first surface to define a cavity therebetween, the coextensive relation defining opposing corresponding portions of the first and second surfaces; a plurality of support members comprising inwardly directed indentations in both of the first and second surfaces extending into the cavity, a plurality of the indentations in each of the first and second surfaces having a square shape and an outwardly facing recess, a plurality of the indentations in the first surface abutting the indentations in the second surface; a layer of viscoelastic foam substantially overlying the first surface; and, a fabric enclosure surrounding the first surface, the second surface and the foam layer.