Support cushion

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Individuals confined to wheelchairs or beds for extended periods face a high risk of pressure ulcers due to restricted blood circulation, weight pressure, and lack of movement, with existing vibration cushion technologies providing limited beneficial effects.

Innovation Solution

A support cushion with an open or closed cell structure, integrated vibrational devices, and a controller to adjust vibration intensity, duration, and location based on user weight distribution, using sensors to monitor posture symmetry and provide customizable therapy programs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If vibration therapy is applied to prevent pressure ulcers, then blood circulation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to need for controllers and sensors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepressure ulcer prevention effectivenessVSAvoidcontroller and sensor system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cushion system automatically monitors user weight distribution through integrated sensors and autonomously adjusts vibration parameters without requiring manual intervention. The controller self-regulates vibration intensity and duration based on real-time pressure data, enabling the system to serve itself in optimizing pressure ulcer prevention while maintaining simplicity for the user.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The cushion integrates multiple functions into a single device: pressure sensing, vibration therapy delivery, and automatic control algorithms. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate devices into one unified system, improving reliability through integration while managing overall device complexity through functional consolidation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple sensors and vibrational devices are integrated into the cushion, then the therapy effectiveness is improved, but the weight of the cushion increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevibration therapy effectivenessVSAvoidcushion weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Sensors and vibrational devices are strategically positioned only in specific high-risk pressure zones within the cushion rather than uniformly distributed throughout. This localized placement provides effective pressure monitoring and vibration therapy where it is most needed while minimizing the overall weight added by these components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The cushion utilizes a porous foam structure that provides both support and vibration transmission capabilities. This porous material framework reduces the need for additional heavy structural components while maintaining the mechanical properties necessary for effective vibration therapy delivery.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #31Porous materials

3Adaptability or versatility

If the cushion provides automated vibration control based on weight distribution, then the adaptability is improved, but the energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevibration program adaptabilityVSAvoidcontroller energy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The controller implements periodic vibration cycles with alternating active and inactive phases, adjusting vibration parameters in rhythmic patterns rather than continuous operation. This periodic action provides adaptability through varying vibration programs while reducing overall energy consumption by allowing rest periods between vibration episodes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system adapts to different users and conditions by dynamically changing vibration parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and duration based on sensor feedback. These parameter adjustments provide versatility and adaptability without requiring additional hardware, thereby minimizing energy consumption while maximizing therapeutic effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 cushion effectively enhances blood flow and reduces pressure ulcer risk by providing tailored vibration therapy, promoting regular movement reminders and improving posture symmetry through customizable programs and sensor feedback.

Implementation Method 1

at least one vibrational device located within at least one of the cavities and imparting vibration to the support structure

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVibration: Vibration

Data Source

PatentUS20220015968A1Support cushion

Publication Date: 2022.01.20 RC SERVICES AUSTRALIA PTY LTD

AI summary

A support cushion to ameliorate the incidence of pressure ulcers, the support cushion comprising: an open or closed cell support structure; at least one cavity formed within the support structure; at least one vibrational device located within at least one of the cavities and imparting vibration to the support structure; a controller controlling operation of the vibrational device to adjust one or more of intensity, duration and location of vibrations in a predetermined manner according to one of a number of selected programmes, and at least one sensor adapted to map a pressure (weight) distribution map of a user. The support cushion may be adjustable in vibration intensity, duration, and location depending on the mapped pressure distribution. The mapped pressure distribution and history of vibrational intensity, duration, and location may also be logged for diagnosis and treatment purposes.