Superimposed cushioning elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pillow covers lack enhanced cushioning capabilities, as they do not effectively integrate secondary cushioning elements to improve the support and comfort provided by primary cushioning elements.
Innovation Solution
A cover design featuring a primary receptacle with secondary cushioning elements on both panels, where the secondary cushioning elements are compressible, resilient elastomeric materials defining hexagonal cells or columns, providing additional cushioning by being superimposed over the primary cushioning element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional pillow covers are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the cushioning capability and support are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing secondary cushioning elements inside the cover panels, which are themselves inserted into the primary cushioning element. This nested arrangement allows multiple cushioning layers to be integrated without significantly increasing external dimensions, resolving the contradiction between enhanced cushioning capability and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining primary cushioning elements (such as foam or fiberfill) with secondary cushioning elements (such as latex or rubber-based materials) within the same cover structure. This composite approach enhances overall cushioning performance while maintaining a unified cover design that does not excessively increase complexity.
2Ease of operation
If secondary cushioning elements are added to enhance support, then comfort is improved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cushioning function by separating primary and secondary cushioning elements into distinct components that are manufactured independently and then assembled. The cover is designed with separate panels that can be independently manufactured with secondary elements attached, allowing for modular production that simplifies the overall manufacturing process despite the enhanced comfort features.
3Strength
If multiple cushioning layers are integrated, then the cushioning effect is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the primary and secondary cushioning elements into a unified cover structure where the secondary elements are integrated within the panel assembly. This merging approach allows multiple cushioning layers to work together as a coordinated system rather than separate components, enhancing the overall cushioning effect while presenting a unified structure that does not excessively increase perceived complexity.
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 integration of secondary cushioning elements enhances the overall cushioning effect, providing greater support and comfort by altering the manner in which the primary cushioning element interacts with body parts, such as the head or back.
Implementation Method 1
The secondary cushioning element may comprise a compressible, resilient elastomeric material that defines a plurality of thin interconnected walls defining an array of cells or columns
Data Source
AI summary
A cushioning element includes a fabric, a first cushioning element on a first side of the fabric, and a second cushioning element on a second side of the fabric. The first cushioning element and second cushioning element may be superimposed. The fabric may include a first layer and a second layer that are superimposed, with the first cushioning element secured to and protruding from the first layer and the second cushioning element secured to and protruding from the second layer. Each of the first cushioning element and second cushioning element may include a plurality of interconnected walls formed from an elastomeric gel material. The walls of the first cushioning element and second cushioning element may be aligned or offset.