Segmented Actuator Cushion for Independent Pressure Relief and Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for preventing pressure sores, such as manual repositioning and traditional seat cushions, are inadequate and disruptive, especially for individuals with limited mobility, as they fail to evenly distribute pressure effectively and often require frequent adjustments or rely on bulky and costly pneumatic systems.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic support apparatus featuring a cushion with actuators that can be filled with fluid, incorporating a stratified foam support and a sensor assembly to monitor pressure and adjust fluid distribution dynamically, ensuring consistent support and pressure relief.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If traditional seat cushions are used to distribute pressure, then pressure distribution is improved, but the system becomes bulky and requires frequent manual adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The cushion is divided into multiple independent air chambers instead of using a single bulky cushion structure. Each chamber can be independently controlled to provide pressure relief, eliminating the need for frequent manual adjustments while maintaining effective pressure distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The cushion transitions from a static traditional design to a dynamic system with controllable air chambers. The pressure in each chamber can be adjusted in real-time based on user needs, providing adaptive pressure distribution without requiring the user to manually reposition or adjust the cushion.
2Stress or pressure
If pneumatic cushions with interconnected bladders are used, then pressure relief is improved, but reliability deteriorates because one compromised bladder affects all bladders
Solution Approach 1:
The pneumatic system is segmented into multiple independent air chambers that are not interconnected. Each chamber operates independently, so if one chamber is compromised, the others remain functional, significantly improving system reliability while maintaining pressure relief capabilities.
3Stress or pressure
If active cushions with interconnected bladders are used, then pressure redistribution is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates because bladders are not easy or cost effective to replace
Solution Approach 1:
The cushion is segmented into independent replaceable air chambers. If one chamber fails, only that specific chamber needs to be replaced rather than the entire bladder system, making repairs easier and more cost-effective while maintaining pressure redistribution functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The problematic interconnected bladder system is extracted and replaced with independent air chambers. This allows the problematic component to be removed and replaced individually without affecting the rest of the system, improving ease of repair.
4Stress or pressure
If manual repositioning is used to prevent pressure sores, then pressure relief is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates because it is demanding and disruptive especially for individuals with limited mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The cushion system provides automatic pressure relief through its controllable air chambers, eliminating the need for users to manually reposition themselves. The system serves itself by detecting and responding to pressure needs, making it easy to operate for individuals with limited mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The cushion dynamically adjusts pressure distribution automatically, replacing the static and demanding manual repositioning process. This dynamic adaptation occurs without user intervention, improving ease of operation while maintaining effective pressure relief.
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 dynamic support apparatus provides effective pressure distribution and relief, reducing the risk of pressure sores by dynamically adjusting to the user's needs, offering comfort and support without the need for frequent adjustments or bulky systems.
Implementation Method 1
at least one actuator wherein the at least one actuator defines an interior volume and wherein the interior volume may be configured to be at least partially filled with a fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A dynamic support apparatus. The dynamic support apparatus includes a cushion, at least one actuator wherein the at least one actuator defines an interior volume and wherein the interior volume may be configured to be at least partially filled with a fluid, and a support disposed in the interior volume wherein the support configured to support an occupant when the interior volume is not filled with the fluid such that the support is sufficient to support the occupant.