Sensor-Controlled Slatted Frame for Balanced Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slatted frames do not effectively adjust to provide a balanced and ideal load distribution, especially when a mattress with varying firmness is used, and fail to account for the user's position, leading to suboptimal comfort and potential discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A slatted frame equipped with deformation sensors and servomotors that adjust the slat height and angle in real-time to achieve a balanced load distribution, determining the user's position and adjusting the contour of the slatted surface to match a target distribution curve, while considering the mattress's firmness and user's weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment options are provided for slat height, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The slatted frame transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one where slat heights can be individually adjusted. Servomotors enable each slat to move independently to different positions, allowing the frame to adapt its geometry in response to varying load conditions and user preferences, thus improving operational ease while maintaining manageable complexity through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the geometric parameter of slat height dynamically. By adjusting the height parameter of individual slats based on deformation sensor feedback and target distribution curves, the frame optimizes its load-bearing characteristics without requiring complex manual intervention mechanisms
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the contour of the slatted surface is adjusted to achieve ideal load distribution, then comfort is improved, but device complexity increases due to servomotors and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
Deformation sensors continuously monitor the actual load distribution on the slatted frame and feed this information back to the control unit. The control unit compares the measured distribution with the target distribution curve and automatically adjusts servomotor positions to minimize deviations, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes comfort while managing complexity through automated regulation
Solution Approach 2:
The slatted frame performs self-adjustment by using its own deformation data to control the positioning of its slats. The system serves itself by automatically detecting load imbalances and correcting them through servomotor actuation, eliminating the need for external manual intervention and reducing the perceived complexity for the user
3Measurement precision
If deformation sensors are installed on each slat to measure load, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is segmented by placing individual deformation sensors on each slat rather than using a single centralized sensor. This segmentation allows precise measurement of load on each individual slat, enabling the control system to detect and correct local load imbalances, thereby achieving high measurement precision while keeping the sensor implementation simple and modular
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 solution provides enhanced comfort by ensuring a balanced and ideal load distribution, accommodating different user positions and mattress firmness, resulting in improved user comfort and support.
Implementation Method 1
Each slat (30) is provided with a deformation sensor (84) which is arranged to detect the deformation of the slat (30) under load
Implementation Method 2
The ends of the slats (30) are in turn resiliently supported on the frame (20) of the slatted frame (100)
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
The base has a set of slats carried by a set of frames, where ends of a part of the slats are fixed with the frame and supported by adjustable support units (38) i.e. springs. Driven sections (36) of the support units are adjustable by a set of servomotors (42). The support units provide position signals optionally through a set of position indicators (80) that is co-operated with the support units. The ends of two neighboring slats are adjusted by a common support unit. Two ends of the slat are mechanically, hydraulically or electrically coupled with the support units. The frames are designed as longitudinal boards (12) and cross boards (16, 18).