EP1753322B1 - Pneumatic cushion for sitting, leaning or lying upon - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to pneumatic cushions, in particular for seat reclining and lying cushions according to one of the independent claims.

Pneumatic cushions are widely known. Also, some efforts have been made to create flat structures.

In the simplest way, this is achieved in the juxtaposition of hoses, each with a round cross-section. As an example, the old-fashioned air mattress can serve here. The individual hoses are usually connected to each other so that they form one or two contiguous air chambers.

In US 2,748,401 (D1 ), the hoses are connected together such that a part of a hose wall is also part of the hose wall of a second hose. Thus, a quasi closer moving together of the individual tubes can be achieved. Depending on the configuration, the individual hoses lie in one or two levels.

A disadvantage of D1, however, is that the surface of the pillows produced still shows the nature of adjacent hoses and thus the comfort, for example, to sit or lie on such a pillow, is greatly impaired.

Object of the present invention is to provide cushions with a high level of comfort, in particular to sit on it, to lie or to lean on it.

The solution of the problem is reproduced in terms of their features in the characterizing part of the independent claim 1 and in terms of further advantageous features in the dependent claims.

The inventive cushions are constructed of a coating and an internal pneumatic structure. The pneumatic structure has at least one gas-tight chamber and defines the shape of the pneumatic cushion. The inventive cushions can be used in particular in home furnishings such as chairs, seats and beds but also in seats of means of transport such as vehicles and aircraft.

US 1,985,432 shows a pneumatic cushion, divided into pressurized chambers whose side walls are not elastic and whose upper and lower walls are elastically formed, so that on the one hand a stable arrangement is present, on the other hand, soft for the user, as compressed gas through connecting openings in the chamber walls ever can flow into the various chambers after load condition.

GB 243 874 shows a pneumatic cushion that provides improved lateral support by the edge regions as tubes, preferably with larger diameter, are formed.

In a first, simplest execution group, the pneumatic structure is formed from gas-tight material. It is essentially constructed of a shell and webs extending therein. The entire pneumatic structure is surrounded by a coating. The cover is designed to be tensioned by the pressurized pneumatic structure. Since the shell deforms like a circle between the webs under pressure, the pneumatic structure is given a ribbed surface. Due to the tensioned coating, the individual ribs are no longer perceived so clearly, as a result of which, for example, the sitting comfort of a pillow designed in this way is significantly increased.

In a second embodiment, the pneumatic structure is constructed such that a functional separation can be realized between the forming and the gas-tight means. In turn, a coating comprises the pneumatic structure such that it is tensioned by the pressurized pneumatic structure.

In a third embodiment, the pneumatic structure is made up of individual interconnected hoses. Also around this embodiment of the pneumatic structure, a coating is laid so that it is stretched by the filled pneumatic structure.

Of course, it is also according to the invention, in a pillow, such as a reclining cushion to combine the various embodiments of the pneumatic structure together.

To further increase comfort, the pneumatic cushions may be equipped with actuators, which may also be pneumatic. An adaptation to individual needs is thus made possible.

In the following figures, the inventive cushions are described in detail. It is discussed on the individual embodiments and variants thereof. The actuators and reinforcements are also discussed.

Fig. 1 bis 3

drei Ausführungsformen einer ersten Ausführungsgruppe von pneumatischen Kissen im Querschnitt,

Fig. 4 bis 8

vier Ausführungsformen einer zweiten Ausführungsgruppe von pneumatischen Kissen im Querschnitt,

Fig. 9 und 10

zwei Ausführungsformen einer dritten Ausführungsgruppe von pneumatischen Kissen im Querschnitt,

Fig. 11 und 12

zwei ergonomisch angepasste Ausführungsformen,

Fig. 13 bis 15

einen ersten pneumatischen Aktor,

Fig. 16 bis 18

weitere pneumatische Aktoren,

Fig. 19

einen aus den vorangehenden Strukturen aufgebauten Fahrzeugsitz.

Show it:

Fig. 1 to 3

three embodiments of a first embodiment of pneumatic cushion in cross-section,

Fig. 4 to 8

four embodiments of a second embodiment of pneumatic cushion in cross-section,

FIGS. 9 and 10

two embodiments of a third embodiment of pneumatic cushion in cross-section,

FIGS. 11 and 12

two ergonomically adapted embodiments,

Fig. 13 to 15

a first pneumatic actuator,

Fig. 16 to 18

other pneumatic actuators,

Fig. 19

a vehicle seat constructed from the foregoing structures.

Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a first execution group. The first execution group includes all embodiments in which 2 webs 3 are mounted within a gas-tight envelope. In the illustrated embodiment, the webs extend from an upper side of the shell 2 to an underside. The webs thus prevent the free expansion of the shell in the vertical direction. The chambers 4 formed by the webs may be fluidly connected to one another or form separate compartments. For example, the webs can not extend all the way to the edge of a pad 5, so that the pad 5 consists of a single air chamber. Of course, the webs may also be interrupted or contain openings. Also, the use of air-permeable materials for the webs 3, in particular Textiles, leading to interconnected chambers 4. If the webs 3 form mutually closed chambers 4, they must be arranged in the shell 2 so that they are connected over its entire circumference with the shell 2. The webs 3 can be connected, for example, by gluing or welding with the shell 2. Preferably, the webs 3 and the sheath 2 are made of low-stretch materials, for example PU. The casing 2 is covered by a coating 1. When filling the pneumatic structure, so the shell 2 with their webs 3, their scope increases, whereby the coating 1 is stretched. The tighter the coating 1 is, the less the individual chambers are still perceived. The tension in the coating 1 can be further increased if the circumference of the relaxed coating is slightly smaller than the circumference of the filled pneumatic structure, the coating 1 is thus biased.

wobei:

• σ = Spannung
• p = Druck
• r = Radius eines zwischen zwei Stegen verlaufenden Abschnittes der Hülle 2

If the pneumatic structure is pressurized, the shell 2 deforms between two webs in a substantially arcuate manner. The hardness of the structure is determined by the tension in the shell 2. The following applies: $$\sigma \alpha p*r$$

in which:

• σ = stress
• p = pressure
• r = radius of a section of the sheath 2 extending between two webs

also eine Kraft pro Längeneinheit, was für dünne Schichten wie die hier in Frage kommenden Stoffe oder Folien eine gute Näherung ist. Die Spannung σ ist also über den Druck p wie auch den Radius r regulierbar, wobei der Radius r durch die Konstruktion vorgegeben wird. Der einzige freie Parameter eines fertiggestellten Kissens 5 ist der Druck p. Diese Überlegungen gelten in ihren Grundzügen auch für die folgenden Ausführungsbeispiele.A dimensional consideration of equation (1) provides the dimension for the stress σ $\frac{N}{m}=\left[\sigma \right]=\left[p*r\right]=\frac{\mathrm{<figure-callout\; id="2"\; label="N\; m"\; filenames="imgf0001.png,imgf0002.png"\; state="\{\{state\}\}">N\; </figure-callout>}}{m^{}}*m.$

So a force per unit length, which is a good approximation for thin layers such as the substances or films in question here. The stress σ is therefore adjustable via the pressure p as well as the radius r , whereby the radius r is given by the construction. The only free parameter of a completed pad 5 is the pressure p . These considerations apply in their basic features also for the following embodiments.

In the Fig. 2 the webs are partially double-walled. If the intermediate spaces in the webs 3 are subjected to a pressure p ₂ , p ₂ > p ₁ , they deform and shorten the webs 3. This results in a deformation of the casing 2. A cushion 5 with such adaptive webs 3 can therefore be adapted in shape to a certain extent to individual needs. The shell 2 can be made double-walled.

The embodiment in the Fig. 3 corresponds to a large extent in Fig. 1 described form. In addition, a substantially horizontal web 3 is mounted in the pneumatic structure. Through him chambers are created in two layers. Of course, here too adaptive webs 3, as in the Fig. 2 represented, horizontally and / or vertically used.

In a second embodiment, a functional separation between the means responsible for the shape of a pad 5 and the gas-tight means to be pressurized is made.

The two embodiments of the 4 and 5 are similar to those of Fig. 1 and 3 , However, the sheath 2 and the webs 3 can now be made of any desired low-stretch material. In the chambers 4 formed by the shell 2 and the webs 3 now hermetic tubes 6 are inserted. If the hoses 6 pressurized, they fill the chambers and thus stretch the shell 2 and the webs 3. The hoses can now be made of any gas-tight material, such as a stretchable. The risk of overstretching does not exist since the expansion of the hoses is limited by the sheath 2 and the webs 3. As well as in Fig. 2 shown here, the webs 3 or the shell 2 can also be made partially double-walled here. As in the chambers 4 can then be inserted in the webs a gas-tight tube 6. This achieves the same adaptive effect as described above.

The embodiments in the Fig. 6 and 7 differ from those in the 4 and 5 in that the sheath 2 and the webs 3 are replaced by pockets 7 with connecting points 8. Each tube 6 is arranged in a separate pocket 7. Of course, configurations with several hoses 6 in a pocket 7 are also included in the concept of the invention. The pockets 7 are connected to each other at connection points 8. In the Fig. 6 and 7 the joints are such that they cover the entire area of the 4 and 5 occupy existing webs 3. Of course, the connection points 8 can also be attached only in partial areas of the previously existing webs or at other locations, for example between the cover 1 and the pockets. As a connection type, for example, sewing, gluing and welding are suitable.

The 8 and 9 show embodiments of a third group. Here, the shell 2 and the webs 3 is dispensed with. Gas-tight hoses are directly connected to each other, for example by welding or gluing. As previously described, the connection points 8 can be present over a large area or only in a few places. For example, hoses 6 can be inserted between welded seams, so that an adaptive cushion 5 is created. Of course, this embodiment can be performed only single-layer. Likewise, an offset arrangement of the chambers 4 can be achieved in the embodiments described above, as shown in the Fig. 9 is shown.

It is part of the inventive idea that the pneumatic structure of a pad 5 can be composed of a combination of the previously described embodiments. For example, embodiments can be combined with and without hoses, that is, embodiments of the first embodiment of the Fig. 1 to 3 with embodiments of the second embodiment of the Fig. 4 to 9 , Further, features of one embodiment may be incorporated in another embodiment or features of the described embodiments combined into new ones.

The Fig. 10 shows an embodiment in which two layers of chambers 4 are arranged, wherein the upper layer with a different, smaller here, pressure is applied to the lower. In the case of a seat cushion 5 can thus, for example the sinking depth into the cushion 5 are influenced without it having to work hard on the surface. This principle can be generalized without restrictions and transferred to the other embodiments. In principle, it is conceivable and included in the idea of the invention to pressurize each chamber 4 or each tube 6 with its own pressure.

As a further option, not shown, it is conceivable and according to the invention to integrate a functional intermediate layer into the pads 5, for example between the pneumatic structure and the cover 1. Such an intermediate layer can take on different functions. For example, a pad can be attached as the intermediate layer. At a total pressure loss so that the cushioning effect of the pad can be at least temporarily maintained. Further, it is conceivable to attach an air-permeable intermediate layer, for example in the form of a spacer fabric below the cover 1. Such an intermediate layer makes it possible to ventilate and to air-condition a cushion independently of the pneumatic structure. Likewise, it is according to the invention to provide an intermediate layer with hygienic functions. For example, in such an intermediate layer, perspiration and odor absorbing agents can be arranged. This intermediate layer may additionally be removable, so that it can be easily cleaned or disinfected.

As mentioned in the introduction, the pads 5 are constructed of a pneumatic structure together with a surrounding coating 1. As the skilled artisan will readily appreciate, of course, a pad 5 without the coating 1 can be formed solely from the pneumatic structure.

The FIGS. 11 and 12 show plan views of, for example, seat cushion 5. In the Fig. 13 to 18 pneumatic actuators are shown, which serve to move the inventive cushion 5 or deform, so that a further adaptation to individual wishes is possible. All in the 11 to 18 illustrated embodiments of the pneumatic structure are a limited selection and serve only the Illustration. Of course, each of the pneumatic structures can be combined with each one.

The in the FIGS. 11 and 12 shown pneumatic structures are intended to illustrate that the webs 3 or the tubes 6 are not only rectilinear, but can also take curved or closed forms. The pneumatic cushions can thus be optimized ergonomically. For example, the structure of the pneumatic cushion can already be optimized for the weight load of a seated or lying person. Of course, the idea of the invention also includes imaginative arrangements of the webs 3; a restriction to parallel or orthogonal to each other extending webs 3 is not in the spirit of the invention.

With the following in the following Fig. 13 to 18 described pneumatic actuators, the cushion 5 can be moved as a whole or changed in shape, which allows a further type of adaptation to individual needs or requirements. Of course, the same adaptations can be achieved with non-pneumatic actuators.

The Indian Fig. 13 shown actuator is mounted with a bracket 31 to a fixed structure 30. On the holder 31, a flexible plate 32 is arranged, for example by means of screws 33. The flexible plate can be made for example of plastic, a metal or a spring steel. Between the holder 31 and the flexible plate 32, a pressurizable bladder is attached.

The Fig. 14 shows the first actuator Fig. 13 arranged between a pneumatic structure comprising it. Will the bladder 34, as in Fig. 15 shown, pressurized, it deforms and presses the free end of the flexible plate 32 of the holder 31, bends and biases them. With this deformation, the pneumatic structure in the plane of FIG. 15 slightly widened. When the bladder 34 is relieved, the elastic plate again assumes its relaxed, straight initial shape. The coating 1 can be as in FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrated comprising the pneumatic structure together with the first actuator. However, embracing merely the pneumatic structure is also according to the invention. In other variants For example, only on the elastic plate 32, a pad 5 or a pad 5 may each be mounted on one side of the actuator.

In another variant, not shown, for example, the holder may also at least partially consist of a flexible plate 32. Also according to the invention it is, instead of in the Fig. 14 used flexible plate 32 to use a substantially rigid plate and press for example with springs against the holder 31 and pinch the bubble between itself and the holder 31.

Im in Fig. 16 shown second actuator two plates 37 are articulated by means of a hinge 38 to each other. Between the plates, a plurality of bubbles 34 are preferably arranged. The bladders 34 are held in position with tabs 39. When the bubbles 34 are pressurized, they expand and open the plates at their free ends. Depending on where and how the actuator is arranged, it closes when relief of the bubbles by itself, or, for example, additionally attached spring elements close it actively. Opening angles of 90 ° and more are possible with the second actuator. It is therefore suitable for changing the position of cushion 5 to each other.

The FIGS. 17 and 18 show another type of pneumatic actuators. They consist of a flexible base plate 41, which has a plurality of ribs 42. By the ribs 42 a plurality of substantially parallel grooves are formed. In each groove, a hose 6 is arranged. The hoses 6 are dimensioned so that they fill the grooves under pressure and press against the ribs 42. With increasing pressure, the hoses 6 press the ribs 42 apart at their free ends, whereby the base plate bends. If the hoses are relieved of pressure, the base plate resumes its original shape. The embodiment of the Fig. 17 can be bent on one side, those of the Fig. 18 on two sides, depending on which hoses are pressurized. Cushions 5 attached to these actuators can be bent adaptively, for example for adaptation a chair back in the lumbar spine area can be used.

The Fig. 19 shows a built-up from the pneumatic components described above bucket seat 44 for a passenger vehicle. The bucket seat is assembled from a plurality of pneumatic pads 5. The individual pads 5 are optimized for their function. Some have actuators, others have adaptive bars 3, and others have both or none of the adaptive extensions. Not shown is a basic structure to which the individual components of the bucket seat are attached. Likewise, the actuators are not shown. There are still missing the coatings 1, so that the pneumatic structure of the individual pads 5 is visible. The seat cushion 45 of the bucket seat 44 is structurally optimized for the load of a seated person. In the area of the buttocks and thighs recesses are arranged, which can be adjusted with double bars still. A thigh support 47 is pivoted at the front end of the seat cushion 45. With an actor like in Fig. 16 The thigh support can be pivoted to a preferred position. Left and right on the seat cushion 45 leg guide pillows are attached. You can use an actor, such as the Fig. 16 to be applied to the sides of the legs. Especially when cornering a person is held in the seat and supported. The backrest of the bucket seat 44 is divided into several areas. The lordose cushion 46 can, for example, with an actuator according to Fig. 17, 18 or 13 deformed and / or pivoted. A back pad 50 extends substantially over the area of the thoracic spine. Side of the back cushion 50 side supports 49 are attached. You can, for example, as in the FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrated, are moved towards the center of the backrests. It is thus achieved a lateral guidance and support, which can be adapted to the width of the back of a person. The upper part of the backrest is formed by a shoulder cushion 51 and a headrest 52.

If such a seat is used, for example, as a passenger seat, it is also possible to attach cushions 5 for supporting or guiding the lower legs and feet.

As the example of the bucket seat shows, the various embodiments of the pads 5 can be combined with one another in any desired manner. They can be adapted and optimized for a specific purpose. In the field of passenger transport, in home and sports use, a variety of applications open. The combination of the cushion 5 with actuators allows a still further field of application.

Included in the concept of the invention is to connect the pneumatic structures and actuators described above with a suitable line and valve system, so that the various components can be supplied with the correct pressures, or the pressures in the components can be controlled and monitored.

List of reference numbers

1

coating

2

shell

3

web

4

chamber

5

pillow

6

tube

7

Bags

8th

junction

30

solid structure

31

bracket

32

elastic plate

33

screw

34

bladder

37

plate

38

hinge

39

Banner, flag

41

baseplate

42

rib

44

bucket seat

45

seat cushions

46

lumbar cushion

47

thigh support

48

Leg support pillow

49

side support

50

back cushions

51

shoulder pads

52

headrest

Claims (4)

1. A pneumatic cushion (5), in particular a seat cushion, couch cushion, or back cushion, built up from a pneumatic structure consisting of an airtight envelope (2) to which compressed air can be applied, in which webs (3) run between the upper and lower faces, and chambers (4) are formed, wherein

   - the pneumatic structure is enclosed by a covering (1), such that the covering (1) is tensioned by the envelope (2) to which a pressure p₁ is applied,

   characterised in that,
   at least one part of the webs (3) and/or at least one part of the envelope (2) of the pneumatic structure is double-walled, so that at least one intermediate space arises, which under the application of a pressure p₂ , where p₂ > p₁, deforms and shortens the double-walled web (3) and/or the double-walled envelope (2).
2. The pneumatic cushion (5) in accordance with patent claim 1,
   characterised in that,
   at least one horizontal web (3) is present in the pneumatic structure, so that at least two layers of chambers (4) are formed.
3. The pneumatic cushion (5) in accordance with patent claim 1,
   characterised in that,

   - the pneumatic structure also consists of gas-tight sleeves (6), of which at least one is arranged in each chamber (4).
4. The pneumatic cushion (5) in accordance with patent claim 3,
   characterised in that,
   at least one horizontal web (3) is present in the pneumatic structure, so that at least two layers of chambers (4) are formed.

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