Sacral Support Device with Vented Relief for Neutral Spine Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Common seating products fail to provide long-term comfort and support for the lower back, leading to fatigue and pain due to inadequate support in the sacral region, which is exacerbated by the lack of adjustable and customizable solutions for varying user sizes and seating environments.
Innovation Solution
A molded thermoplastic spinal support device with a vented center relief portion, relief arms, and a support frame that adjusts to properly position the sacrum, redistributing pressure and providing customizable support to maintain neutral spine equilibrium, suitable for various seat types and user sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a pillow or shaped seat is used to fit the curvature of the lumbar region, then short-term comfort is improved, but long-term support and posture maintenance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is divided into distinct functional zones: a lumbar support portion with variable density foam for contouring, a sacral support portion with specific geometry for pelvic positioning, and connecting structures. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specialized function optimally, providing both immediate comfort and sustained posture support.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the support device have different material properties and structural characteristics. The lumbar portion uses variable density foam for comfort, while the sacral portion uses specific geometric structures for positional support. This local differentiation enables the device to provide appropriate support characteristics in each anatomical region simultaneously.
2Ease of operation
If lumbar support devices are added to the seat back, then lower back comfort is improved, but adaptability to varying user sizes and seating environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support device incorporates adjustable elements including removable components, adjustable straps, and flexible material sections that can be customized to fit different user sizes and seating configurations. This dynamic adjustability maintains comfort across varying user populations and environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to function across multiple seating environments (vehicle seats, office chairs, etc.) and accommodate various user sizes through its combination of anatomically-designed structures and adjustable features. The universal design principles enable one device to serve multiple purposes and user types effectively.
3Device complexity
If the sacral region is not properly supported, then seat simplicity is maintained, but spine positioning and posture stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sacral support function is extracted as a distinct component from the overall seat structure, allowing it to be independently optimized for spine positioning while maintaining the simplicity of the base seat design. This separate support device can be added to or removed from the seat without modifying the seat itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device is pre-configured with anatomically-correct geometries and material densities that automatically position the spine in neutral alignment when properly installed. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for complex adjustment mechanisms while ensuring stable spine positioning from initial use.
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 device effectively reduces work fatigue and improves posture by providing targeted support and pressure relief, allowing the sacrum to be correctly positioned, thus enhancing user comfort and reducing the risk of back pain across different seating scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
The main body has a vented center relief area that flexes to relieve and/or redistribute localized pressure from the spine and to support the user's sacrum
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a spine orienting device for integration into a variety of types of seats, for example, automotive seats or office type seating, in order to properly position the sacrum of the individual using the seat, which in turn will properly pivot the pelvis to assist in maintaining the spine in equilibrium.