Sensored Test Indentor for Flexible Surface Envelopment Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining performance parameters of patient support surfaces, such as mattresses, are inadequate and require further improvement for accurate characterization and modification of structural or operational features.
Innovation Solution
A test device with a plurality of sensing points is pressed into the surface, measuring pressures and determining an envelopment parameter based on the pressure data, using a test indentor with a round shell and embedded pressure sensors, and a method for manufacturing this sensored indentor by securing sensors to a shell, placing it in a mold, and pouring a fluid material to create an elastomeric exterior.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional test methods are used to determine surface characteristics, then the testing process is simple, but the measurement precision and accuracy of envelopment parameters are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The test device divides the measurement function into multiple sensing points arranged in a matrix array, where each sensing point independently measures pressure at its location. This segmentation allows precise mapping of pressure distribution across the surface, enabling accurate calculation of envelopment parameters while maintaining a modular, manageable device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional single-point or line-based pressure measurement to a two-dimensional matrix array of sensing points. This dimensional expansion enables comprehensive capture of pressure distribution patterns across the entire contact area, providing the data necessary for precise envelopment parameter calculation.
2Loss of information
If a rounded test indentor is used to press into the flexible surface, then the envelopment parameter can be determined, but the device complexity increases due to multiple sensing points and data processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix array of sensing points serves multiple functions simultaneously: it measures pressure distribution, determines contact area, calculates envelopment parameters, and characterizes surface properties. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate measurement devices and procedures, offsetting the increased device complexity with consolidated measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The test device automatically processes the pressure data from all sensing points to calculate envelopment parameters and surface characteristics without requiring complex external measurement systems. The integrated data processing capability allows the device to self-service the complete measurement and analysis function.
3Manufacturing precision
If pressure sensors are secured to the exterior of the shell and elastomeric material is poured to create an elastomeric exterior, then the sensing points can detect pressure accurately, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Pressure sensors are pre-secured to the shell exterior at predetermined locations before the elastomeric material is poured. This preliminary positioning ensures accurate and consistent sensing point placement, while the subsequent pouring process automatically encases the sensors in their correct positions, simplifying the overall manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The manufacturing process uses fluid (elastomeric material) to encase the pre-positioned sensors, allowing the material to flow into and around the sensors to create a uniform elastomeric exterior. This fluid-based manufacturing approach simplifies the encasement process compared to rigid assembly methods.
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
This approach allows for precise determination of envelopment parameters and surface characteristics, enabling effective modification of patient support surfaces to enhance performance.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the pressures at the sensing points
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for determining a characteristic of a flexible surface and determining a performance parameter of the flexible surface is disclosed. The method comprises providing a test device and pressing the test device into a flexible surface, measuring the pressures at the sensing points, and determining an envelopment parameter of the surface based on the pressures. The test device comprises a plurality of sensing points extending from a bottom of the test device upwardly along a side of the test device. A test indentor comprising a shell, wherein a least a portion of the shell is generally round in shape and has an exterior, with sensing points extending along the side of the shell, each sensing point is capable of detecting pressure at its location and an elastomeric material is on the exterior of the shell and adjacent the sensing points.