Spring core
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for compressing and storing spring cores, such as vacuum packaging, are costly and prone to damage, requiring additional packaging materials and increasing storage and logistics costs due to their large volume.
Innovation Solution
A spring core is compressed using a cord or thread that forms braids and interconnected loops around the pockets, allowing for easy expansion to the non-compressed state without the need for plastic sacks or vacuumizing, facilitating more efficient storage and transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If vacuum packaging is used to compress the spring core, then the storage and transportation volume is reduced, but the cost increases and the risk of damage to the mattress material increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression mechanism is divided into separate functional components: the cord provides compression force while the loops provide controlled restraint. This segmentation allows the compression system to be simpler and less prone to failure compared to vacuum packaging, eliminating the need for sealed plastic sacks and vacuum sealing mechanisms that can break or leak.
Solution Approach 2:
The interconnected loops structure allows the cord to automatically distribute compression force evenly across multiple pockets as it is pulled. The loops act as self-regulating elements that prevent localized over-compression and ensure uniform compression throughout the spring core, eliminating the need for external monitoring or control systems.
2Volume of moving object
If vacuum packaging is used to compress the spring core, then the storage and transportation volume is reduced, but additional packaging materials are required which take up space
Solution Approach 1:
The plastic sack and vacuum sealing materials are completely removed from the compression system. The cord-and-loops mechanism achieves compression using only simple textile or synthetic cordage, eliminating the need for large quantities of plastic packaging material that would otherwise be required to contain and compress the spring core.
Solution Approach 2:
The cord serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides compression force, distributes pressure evenly through the loop structure, and can be easily removed or adjusted. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate packaging materials that would be required in vacuum packaging systems.
3Ease of manufacture
If the spring core is compressed using a cord forming braids and interconnected loops, then the cost and environmental impact are reduced, but the compression mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The braiding and looping functions are merged into a single continuous cord structure. Rather than using separate components for compression and restraint, the same cord performs both functions through its braided sections at the ends and its interconnected loops along the length, simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The interconnected loops allow the cord to adapt its configuration as compression is applied, automatically adjusting to the shape and size of the spring core. This dynamic behavior simplifies the mechanism compared to rigid vacuum packaging systems while maintaining effective compression.
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 method reduces storage and transportation costs, minimizes environmental impact, and allows for flexible packaging options, such as folding, while maintaining the integrity of the spring core during long-term storage and use.
Implementation Method 1
By pulling the cord, the compressed condition of the spring core is loosened and the springs of the pockets will return to a non-compressed state one after the other
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention concerns a spring core (1, 1a, 12, 13, 17, 18) that may be used in e.g. bed mattresses, chairs or sofas. The spring core (1, 1a, 12, 13, 17, 18) comprises springs placed inside pocket (3). The pockets (3) are placed in a number of rows, which rows of pockets (3) are placed side by side. The spring core (1, 1a, 12, 13, 17, 18) is held in a compressed state by means of at least one cord (5). The at least one cord (5) is formed into braids (6) at opposite outer ends (7) of each row of pockets (3). Further, the at least one cord (4) forms a number of loops (8) on at least one side of each row of pockets (3). By pulling at one free end (10) of the at least one cord (5) the braids (6) and loops (8) are dissolved, allowing the spring core (1) to return to the non-compressed state.