Vacuum-Actuated Support Device with Segmented Foam

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing support devices, such as seat cushions with inflatable air chambers, fail to comfortably adapt to the shape of the body due to the inability of air chambers to distribute pressure effectively, leading to inefficient support and uneven distribution of air volume.

Innovation Solution

A support device comprising a flexible, air-tight membrane with a compressible solid body and a vacuum pump that allows for the creation of a bladder capable of maintaining an arbitrary shape, with a support portion to control deformation and ensure proper support, using a combination of a compressible polyurethane foam and a vacuum system to manage internal volume and pressure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If air chambers are used to change the shape of the support device, then the support device can adapt to user needs, but the air chambers cannot properly adapt to the shape of the body and air volumes move to non-useful zones

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to body shapeVSAvoidshape control accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The support device is divided into multiple independent support portions (first support portion, second support portion, etc.), each capable of independent shape adjustment. This segmentation allows each portion to adapt to specific body regions while preventing air migration between zones, as each portion has its own sealed membrane structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each support portion can be independently inflated or deflated to provide localized adaptation to different body shapes. The first support portion can be adjusted for lumbar region support while the second support portion adapts to thigh or calf regions, allowing each zone to have optimal local characteristics.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Ease of operation

If air chambers are inflated to provide support, then the support device can be adjusted for comfort, but the air chambers take a roundish form and cannot support the body properly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecomfort adjustmentVSAvoidsupport surface geometry

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

Each support portion is enclosed by a flexible, air-tight membrane that can be inflated to various shapes. The membrane conforms to the body's contours when inflated, providing customized support geometry rather than fixed roundish shapes. The membrane's flexibility allows it to adapt to different body surfaces while maintaining structural integrity for support.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The support device transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one where each support portion can be independently inflated or deflated based on user needs. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the support surface geometry to change from flat to contoured, adapting to different body shapes and support requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Strength

If air volumes are increased to improve support, then the support device can provide more cushioning, but air volumes move to zones without load or contact

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesupport capabilityVSAvoidair volume distribution

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The support device is divided into multiple independent support portions, each with its own sealed membrane. This segmentation prevents air migration between zones, ensuring that air volume remains confined to the specific support portion where it is needed. Each portion can be independently inflated to the required pressure without affecting other zones.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides visual feedback through color-coded indicators (first color for first support portion, second color for second support portion) that show the inflation status of each support portion. This feedback mechanism helps users understand where air volume is located and ensures proper distribution across different body regions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 device provides comfortable, customizable support by maintaining the shape of the compressible solid body, ensuring efficient distribution of pressure and maintaining support even when partially extended, thus addressing the limitations of traditional air chambers.

Implementation Method 1

said support device (1) comprises a flexible, air-tight membrane (2) with an internal volume (2a) and a connection valve (20) suitable to allow introduction or extraction of air into/from said internal volume (2a); said support device (1) comprises a compressible solid body (3) housed in said internal volume (2a)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVacuum: Vacuum

Implementation Method 2

said support device (1) comprises a compressible solid body (3) housed in said internal volume (2a)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Data Source

PatentEP3580090B1Support device with adjustment of the shape

Publication Date: 2023.08.09 ADVANCE KITES

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Figure 3a~3b
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AI summary

A support device (1) is provided, comprising: a flexible air-tight membrane (2), defining an internal volume (2a) and comprising a connection valve (20) suitable to allow introduction or extraction of air into/from the internal volume (2a), and a compressible solid body (3) housed in the internal volume (3a) and made of a material (3a) which, when said membrane is placed under vacuum, has a volume that decreases by at least 5%.