Rollable Polymer Bed Frame for Compact Storage and Shipping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mattress frames are cumbersome and heavy to transport due to their rigid structure and large size, and there is a lack of compact and lightweight frame materials that can be easily packaged and shipped.
Innovation Solution
A flexible bed frame made of lightweight materials, such as thermoplastic elastomers, with a base support platform and flared lip for stability, which can be rolled onto itself for compact storage and shipping, and features hollow legs for stacking and interlocking with other frames.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional rigid metal frames are used, then structural strength is improved, but weight and ease of transport deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using a flexible polymer material (thermoplastic elastomer) to create a frame that can be rolled into a compact configuration. The flexible material maintains sufficient structural strength to support a mattress while enabling the frame to be rolled up for transport, eliminating the need for heavy rigid metal frames.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the frame material from rigid metal to flexible polymer, altering parameters such as flexibility, density, and deformability. This allows the frame to transition between a functional support structure and a compact rolled configuration for transport.
2Strength
If conventional rigid metal frames are used, then structural strength is improved, but ease of storage and packaging deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible polymer frame can be rolled into a compact cylindrical configuration, dramatically reducing its volume for storage and shipping. This contrasts with rigid metal frames that maintain their full dimensional footprint even when disassembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible structure that can change its configuration. When in use, it provides rigid-like support; when for storage, it rolls into a compact form, adapting its volume based on operational needs.
3Reliability
If middle supports are added to conventional frames, then mattress support is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible polymer material serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the outer frame structure, acts as the middle support surface for the mattress, and enables compact rolling for transport. This eliminates the need for separate middle support components required in conventional rigid frame designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the frame structure and middle support into a single integrated flexible polymer component. The continuous flexible material forms both the perimeter frame and the central support surface, reducing part count and assembly complexity compared to conventional multi-component rigid frames.
4Ease of manufacture
If detachable legs are used, then ease of assembly is improved, but loss of time and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The legs are integrated into the flexible frame structure as a unified component rather than being separate detachable parts. This eliminates the time required to attach and detach legs while maintaining the ability to configure the frame as needed, reducing operational time loss.
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 flexible bed frame is easier to transport and store due to its compact rolled configuration, and it provides stable support for mattresses while allowing for efficient stacking and interlocking with other frames for versatile use.
Implementation Method 1
The frame may be made of a flexible material with sufficient flexibility and elasticity to allow the frame to be rolled onto itself for storage, packing or shipping.
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible bed frame may have a base support platform for supporting a mattress and a flared or angled lip to provide lateral stability to the mattress when positioned on the frame. The frame may be made of a flexible material with sufficient elasticity to allow the frame to be rolled onto itself for storage, packing or shipping. The frame may have one or more cutouts to reduce weight of the frame. The frame may have legs which can be integrated with the support frame when the frame is a unitary piece, or which may be detachable. Legs of the frame may have hollow interior portions designed to receive a leg of corresponding shape of another bed frame when stacked onto the first bed frame.