Slatted Support Structure with Centralized Hinge Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slatted support structures for beds, sitting beds, and chairs are complex and user-unfriendly due to the need for multiple adjustment systems at each end of the slats, which occupy space and require separate control mechanisms, limiting customization and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A slatted support structure featuring a frame with hinges that allow the angle between beams to be adjusted using a connecting element, such as a spindle screw and nut, enabling simultaneous height change at both ends of a slat without the need for separate adjustment systems at each side, and incorporating springs for resilience and a motor for automated control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate adjustment systems are installed at each side of the slat, then the slat height can be adjusted independently at both ends, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the adjustment systems at both ends of the slat into a single centralized adjustment mechanism. By merging the two separate adjustment systems into one, the patent reduces device complexity while maintaining the capability to adjust slat height at both ends simultaneously through a single control point.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized adjustment system performs multiple functions: it controls both ends of the slat simultaneously, adjusts height positioning, and provides resilient positioning capability. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate adjustment systems at each side while maintaining full adjustment capability.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple adjustment systems are installed at each end of the slat, then precise height control is achieved, but the overall width of the support structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the adjustment systems into a single centralized unit that controls both ends of the slat. This consolidation reduces the overall width required for the support structure while maintaining precise height positioning capability through the shared adjustment mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a distributed adjustment system (requiring space at both ends) to a centralized adjustment system (concentrating control in one location). This dimensional reorganization allows precise height control without increasing the overall width of the support structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate control mechanisms are used at each side, then independent adjustment is possible, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate control mechanisms into a single centralized control system that simultaneously adjusts both ends of the slat. This merger improves ease of operation by allowing users to control both ends with one mechanism, while still providing independent adjustment capability through the unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized adjustment system automatically coordinates the adjustment of both slat ends simultaneously. When the user operates the single control mechanism, the system self-manages the synchronized adjustment of both ends, eliminating the need for users to manually coordinate multiple separate controls.
4Stability of the object's composition
If fixed angle hinges are used, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability for different positions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs hinges with adjustable angles that can be set to different positions and locked. This dynamic capability allows the structure to maintain stability at each chosen position while providing adaptability to accommodate different user preferences and body positions, resolving the contradiction between fixed stability and flexible positioning.
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 design allows for customizable slat height and resilience, reduces the overall width of the support structure, and enables automated adjustment based on pressure distribution, enhancing user experience and space efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The connecting element comprises a spindle screw and a nut which are mounted such that the angle between the first and the second beam can be changed by rotating the spindle screw with regard to the nut
Implementation Method 2
the beams can be secured to a fixed position at the chosen angle or to a resilient position wherein the angle can change resiliently around the chosen angle
Data Source
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AI summary
A slatted support structure (100) for a bed or a chair, the slatted support structure comprising a frame (130), at least one hinge (110), and at least one slat (140). Each hinge (110) comprising a first beam (111) and a second beam (115) rotatably connected by means of a connecting element (120). The beams (111, 115) are supported by a first and second support (131, 132) of the frame (130). A slat (140) is at a first end (141) supported by the first beam (111) and at a second end (142) by the second beam (115). The connecting element (120) comprises a positioning element (150) connected with the slat (140) or the frame (130) and configured such that an angle between the first beam (111) and the second beam (115) can be chosen and such that the beams can be secured to a fixed position at the chosen angle or to a resilient position wherein the angle can change resiliently around the chosen angle.