Pneumatic Cushion for Sitting, Leaning or Lying Upon

Abstract

The inventive cushions (5) for sitting, leaning or lying upon are essentially constructed of a pneumatic structure and of a covering that surrounds the pneumatic structure. The pneumatic structure consists of an enclosure (2) and webs (3) resulting in the formation of chambers (4). The pneumatic structure is pressurized whereby tensioning the covering so that the ribbed surface of the pneumatic structure can no longer be clearly perceived. In other embodiments, the cushions (5) are equipped with means for individual adaptation. They can also be supplemented with reinforcing and stiffening structures. Cushions (5) can be deformed or moved relative to one another by means of pneumatic actuators.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field

The instant invention pertains to pneumatic cushions, in particular for cushions for sitting, leaning or lying upon according to one of the independent claims.

2. History of Related Art

All kinds of pneumatic cushions are known. Also, several attempts have been made to generate flat structures.

This is achieved in a very simple manner by affixing tubes next to one another, each tube having a round cross-section. The traditional air mattress can here be used as an example therefor. As a rule, the individual tubes are connected with one another so that they form one or two contiguous air chambers.

In U.S. Pat. No. 2,748,401 (D1), the tubes are connected with one another in such a manner that a part of a tube wall is also a part of the tube wall of a second tube. It can thereby be achieved that the individual tubes move closer together to some degree. Depending on the configuration, the individual tubes are located in one or two planes.

However, the disadvantage of D1 is that the surface of the generated cushions still shows the character of tubes located next to one another, and the comfort of sitting or lying on such a cushion, for example, is highly affected therewith.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is the object of the instant invention to form cushions with a high degree of comfort, in particular for sitting, lying or leaning thereupon.

With reference to its features, the solution of the object is reflected in the characterizing part of the independent claims 1, 4, 7, 10 as well as 15 and 21 and further advantageous features are reflected in the dependent claims. The cushions according to the invention are constructed of a case and an interior pneumatic structure. The pneumatic structure has at least one gas-tight chamber and defines the shape of the pneumatic cushion. The cushions according to the invention can be used, in particular, in furniture and fixtures, such as chairs, seats, and beds but also in seats of means of transportation, such as vehicles and aircrafts.

In a first, simplest embodiment group, the pneumatic structure is made of gas-tight material. The pneumatic structure is essentially constructed of a covering and webs running therein. The entire pneumatic structure is surrounded by a case. The case is such that it is tensioned by the pressurized pneumatic structure. Due to the fact that the covering deforms under pressure between the webs in a circular arc-shaped manner, the pneumatic structure acquires a ribbed surface. Due to the tensioned case, the individual ribs can no longer be clearly perceived, which, for example, significantly increases the seating comfort of a cushion, which is designed that way.

In a second embodiment group, the pneumatic structure is constructed in such a manner that a functional separation can be realized between the shaping means and the gas-tight means. In turn, a case surrounds the pneumatic structure in such a manner that the case is tensioned by the pressurized pneumatic structure.

In a third embodiment group, the pneumatic structure is constructed of individual tubes, which are connected with one another. A case is also placed around this embodiment of the pneumatic structure so that the case is tensioned by the filled pneumatic structure.

It goes without saying that it is also in accordance with the invention to combine the various embodiments of the pneumatic structure with one another in a cushion, for example a cushion for lying upon.

To further increase comfort, the pneumatic cushions can also be equipped with actuators, which can also be of a pneumatic nature. An adaptation to individual requirements is made possible therewith.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the flexible protective helmet of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the following Detailed Description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings, wherein:

FIGS. 1 to 3 illustrate three embodiments of a first embodiment group of pneumatic cushions in cross-section;

FIGS. 4 to 8 illustrate four embodiments of a second embodiment group of pneumatic cushions in cross-section;

FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate two embodiments of a third embodiment group of pneumatic cushions in cross-section;

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate two ergonomically adapted embodiments;

FIGS. 13 to 15 illustrate a first pneumatic actuator;

FIGS. 16 to 18 illustrate further pneumatic actuators; and

FIG. 19 illustrates a vehicle seat constructed of the preceding structures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of a first embodiment group. The first embodiment group comprises all of the embodiment forms, wherein webs 3 are affixed within a gas-tight covering 2. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the webs run from an upper side of the covering 2 to a lower side. The webs prevent therewith the free expansion of the covering in vertical direction. The chambers 4 formed by the webs can be fluidically connected with one another or can form compartments, which are separated from one another. For example, the webs can run almost up to the edge of a cushion 5 so that the cushion 5 consists of a single air chamber. It goes without saying that the webs can also be interrupted or can comprise openings. The use of air-permeable materials for the webs 3, in particular textiles, also leads to chambers 4, which are connected with one another. If the webs 3 are to form chambers 4, which are sealed among one another, they must be arranged in the covering 2 in such a manner that their entire circumference is connected with the covering 2. The webs 3 can be connected with the covering 2 by means of gluing or welding, for example. Preferably, sparsely flexible materials, such as PU, are used for the webs 3 and for the covering 2. The covering 2 is surrounded by a case 1. When filling the pneumatic structure, i.e. the covering 2 with its webs 3, the circumference of the structure increases, whereby the case 1 is tensioned. The more tensioned the cover 1, the less the individual chambers can still be perceived. The tension in the case 1 can still be increased, if the circumference of the relaxed case is slightly less than the circumference of the filled pneumatic structure, i.e. if the case 1 is pretensioned.

If the pneumatic structure is pressurized, the covering 2 deforms between two webs essentially in a circular arc-shaped manner. The hardness of the structure is determined by the tension in the covering 2. Let:

σ∝ρ*r  (1)

where:

• • σ=tension
  • ρ=pressure
  • r=radius of a section of the covering 2 running between two webs

A dimensional approach of the equation (1) yields the dimension

$\frac{N}{m}=\left[\sigma \right]=\left[\rho *r\right]=\frac{N}{m^2}*m$

for the tension σ, i.e. a force per unit of length, which is a good approximation for thin layers, such as the materials or foils, which are considered here. The tension σ can thus be regulated via the pressure p as well as via the radius r, whereby the radius r is predefined by the construction. The only free parameter of a finished cushion 5 is the pressure ρ. In its basic principles, these considerations also hold true for the following exemplary embodiments.

In FIG. 2 the webs are partially embodied in a double-walled manner. If the gaps in the webs 3 are pressurized with a pressure ρ₂, ρ₂>ρ₁, they deform and shorten the webs 3. This results in a deformation of the covering 2. The shape of a cushion 5 with such adaptive webs 3 can thus be adapted to individual requirements to a certain extent.

The embodiment in FIG. 3 largely corresponds to the shape described in FIG. 1. Additionally, an essentially horizontal web 3 is affixed in the pneumatic structure. The web 3 forms chambers in two layers. It goes without saying that adaptive webs 3 can also be used here horizontally and/or vertically, as illustrated in FIG. 2.

In a second embodiment group, a functional separation is carried out between the means, which are responsible for the shape of a cushion 5, and the gas-tight means, which are to be pressurized. The two exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 4 and 5 are similar to those of FIGS. 1 and 3. However, the covering 2 and the webs 3 can now be manufactured from any sparsely flexible material. Gas-tight tubes 6 are now placed into the chambers 4, which are formed by the covering 2 and the webs 3. If the tubes 6 are pressurized, the chambers fill and thus stretch the covering 2 and the webs 3. The tubes can now consist of any gas-tight material, for example a flexible material. There is no danger of overexpansion, because the expansion of the tubes is limited by the covering 2 and the webs 3. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the webs can here also partly be manufactured in a double-walled manner. As is the case in the chambers 4, a gas-tight tube 6 can then also be placed into the webs. This leads to the same adaptive effect as described above.

The embodiments in FIGS. 6 and 7 differ from those of FIGS. 4 and 5 in that the covering 2 and the webs 3 are replaced by pockets 7 with joints 8. Each tube 6 is arranged in its own pocket 7. It goes without saying that the basic principle of the invention also includes configurations with a plurality of tubes 6 in a pocket 7. The pockets 7 are connected with one another at joints 8. In FIGS. 6 and 7, the joints are such that they assume the entire area of the webs 3, which are present in FIGS. 4 and 5. It goes without saying that the joints 8 can also be affixed only in subareas of the formerly present webs or at other locations, for example between the case 1 and the pockets. Sewing, gluing, and welding, for example, are suitable connection methods.

FIGS. 8 and 9 show embodiments of a third group. Here, the covering 2 and the webs 3 are dispensed with. Gas-tight tubes are directly connected with one another by means of welding or gluing, for example. As previously described, the joints 8 can be present in large areas or only at few locations. For example, tubes 6 can be placed between welds, so that an adaptive cushion 5 is formed. It goes without saying that this embodiment can also be embodied in only a single layer. Likewise, a staggered arrangement of the chambers 4 can be achieved in the previously described embodiments, as is shown in FIG. 9.

It is a part of the basic principle of the invention that the pneumatic structure of a cushion 5 can be constructed of a combination of the previously described embodiments. For example, embodiments with and without tubes can be combined, that is to say, in particular, embodiments of the first embodiment group of FIGS. 1 to 3 with embodiments of the second embodiment group of FIGS. 4 to 9. Furthermore, features of an embodiment can be included in another embodiment or features of the described embodiments can be combined to new embodiments.

FIG. 10 shows an exemplary embodiment, wherein two layers of chambers 4 are arranged, whereby pressure, here being less, which differs from the pressure supplied to the lower layer, is supplied to the upper layer. In the case of a seat cushion 5, the sinking depth into the cushion 5 can be influenced therewith, without the cushion having to act hard at the surface. This principle can be generalized without limitations and can be transferred to the other embodiments. As a matter of principle, it is possible and included in the basic principle of the invention, to pressurize each chamber 4 or each tube 6 with an individual pressure.

As a further non-illustrated option, it is possible and in accordance with the invention to integrate a functional intermediate layer into the cushions 5, for example between the pneumatic structure and the case 1. Such an intermediate layer can assume various functions. A pad, for example, can be affixed as an intermediate layer. In response to a complete pressure loss, the padding effect of the cushion can at least provisionally be maintained with it. Furthermore, it is possible to affix an air-permeable intermediate layer, below the case 1, for example in the form of a distance-woven fabric. Such an intermediate layer allows for an aeration and conditioning of the air of a cushion, independent of the pneumatic structure. Likewise, it is in accordance with the invention to affix an intermediate layer with hygienic functions. Perspiration and odor-absorbing means, for example, can be arranged in such an intermediate layer. In addition, this intermediate layer can be detachable so that it can easily be cleaned or disinfected.

As mentioned in the introduction, the cushions 5 are constructed from a pneumatic structure together with a case 1, which surrounds them. As can easily be recognized by the person of skill in the art, it goes without saying that a cushion 5 without the case 1 can solely be shaped from the pneumatic structure.

FIGS. 11 and 12 show top views onto seat cushions 5, for example. FIGS. 13 to 18 illustrate pneumatic actuators, which serve to move or deform the cushions 5 according to the invention so that a further adaptation to individual requests is made possible. All of the embodiments of the pneumatic structure illustrated in FIGS. 11 to 18 represent a limited selection and serve only for the purpose of exemplification. It goes without saying that each of the pneumatic structures can be combined with each of the pneumatic structures.

The pneumatic structures shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 are to clarify that the webs 3 or the tubes 6 do not only run straight, but that they can also assume curved or closed shapes. The pneumatic cushions can thus be ergonomically optimized. For example, the structure of the pneumatic cushion can thus already be optimized for the weight exerted by a seated person or by a lying person. It goes without saying that the basic principle of the invention also includes imaginative configurations of the webs 3. A limitation to webs 3 running in parallel or orthogonally to one another is not in agreement with the basic principle of the invention.

With the pneumatic actuators, illustrated in FIGS. 13 to 18, the cushions 5 can be moved as a whole or their shape can be changed, which makes possible a further type of adaptation to the individual requests or requirements. It goes without saying that the same adaptations can also be achieved with non-pneumatic actuators.

The actuator illustrated in FIG. 13 is affixed to a fixed structure 30 by means of a fastener 31. A flexible plate 32 is affixed to the fastener 31, for example by means of screws 33. The flexible plate can be made of plastic, a metal or another spring steel, for example. A pressurized pouch is affixed between the fastener 31 and the flexible plate 32.

FIG. 14 shows the first actuator from FIG. 13 arranged between a pneumatic structure, which surrounds the actuator. If the pouch 34 is pressurized, as illustrated in FIG. 15, it deforms and pushes the free end of the flexible plate 32 away from the fastener 31 and bends and tensions the same. With this deformation, the pneumatic structure is slightly widened in the plane of the figure. In response to a discharging of the pouch 34, the elastic plate again assumes its relaxed, straight initial shape. As illustrated in FIG. 22, the case 1 can surround the pneumatic structure together with the first actuator. However, it is also in accordance with the invention if only the pneumatic structure is surrounded. In further alternatives, a cushion 5 can be affixed to only the elastic plate 32, or a cushion 5 can be affixed to a respective side of the actuator.

In a further non-illustrate alternative, the fastener can also at least partially consist of a flexible plate 32, for example. It is also in accordance with the invention to use an essentially inflexible plate, instead of the flexible plate 32 used in FIG. 14, and to press the same against the fastener 31 by means of springs, for example, and to clamp the pouch between the plate and the fastener 31.

In the second actuator illustrated in FIG. 16, two plates 37 are coupled with one another by means of a hinge 38. A plurality of pouches 34 is preferably arranged between the plates. The pouches 34 are held in position by means of vanes 39. If the pouches 34 are pressurized, they expand and open the plates at their free ends. Depending on where and how the actuator is arranged, it closes automatically, when the pouches are discharged or additionally affixed spring elements, for example, actively close the actuator. Opening angles of 90° and above are possible with the second actuator. It is thus suitable for changing the position of the cushions 5 to one another.

FIGS. 17 and 18 show a further type of pneumatic actuators. They consist of a flexible base plate 41, which has a plurality of ribs 42. A plurality of essentially parallel grooves is formed by the ribs 42.

A tube 6 is arranged in each groove. The tubes 6 are dimensioned in such a manner that, when pressurized, they fill the grooves and push the grooves against the ribs 42. With an increasing pressure, the tubes 6 push the ribs 42 apart at their free ends, which causes the base plate to bend. If the pressure is discharged from the tubes, the base plate again assumes its initial shape. The embodiment of FIG. 17 can be bent on one side, the embodiment of FIG. 18 can be bent on two sides, depending on which of the tubes is pressurized. Cushions 5 affixed to these actuators can be adaptively bent, which can be used, for example, for an adaptation of a back of a chair in the lumbar region.

FIG. 19 shows a bucket seat 44 for a passenger vehicle constructed of the above-described pneumatic components. The bucket seat is assembled from a plurality of pneumatic cushions 5. The individual cushions 5 are optimized for their function. Some have actuators, others have adaptive webs 3, and again others have both or none of the adaptive enhancements. A basic structure, to which the individual components of the bucket seat are attached, is not illustrated. Likewise, the actuators are not illustrated. Furthermore, the cases 1 are missing, so that the pneumatic structure of the individual cushions 5 is visible.

The seat cushion 45 of the bucket seat 44 is structurally optimized for the straining by a seated person. Depressions, which can still be adapted with double webs, are arranged in the area of the buttocks and of the thighs. A thigh support 47 is pivotably coupled at the front end of the seat cushion 45. The thigh support can be pivoted into a preferred position by means of an actuator as in FIG. 16. Leg guiding cushions are affixed to the left and the right of the seat cushion 45. They can be laterally attached to the legs by means of an actuator, of FIG. 16, for example. In particular when driving around bends, a person is kept in the seat and supported. The backrest of the bucket seat 44 is divided into a plurality of areas. A lordosis cushion 46 forms the lowermost area. The lordosis cushion 46 can be deformed and/or pivoted with an actuator according to FIG. 17, 18 or 13, for example. A back cushion 50 extends essentially across the area of the thoracic spine. Side supports 49 are affixed to the side of the back cushion 50. As illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15, they can be moved towards the center of the backrest, for example. This results in a lateral guide and support, which can be adapted to the width of a person's back. A shoulder cushion 51 and a head support 52 forms the upper part of the backrest.

If such a seat is used as a passenger seat, for example, cushions 5 can also be affixed for supporting or guiding the lower legs and feet.

As the example of the bucket seat illustrates, the various embodiments of the cushions 5 can be arbitrarily combined with one another. They can be adapted to and optimized for a specific purpose. Various possible fields of application open up for use in the field of passenger transportation, at home or for sports. The combination of the cushions 5 with actuators permit yet a further field of application. The basic principle of the invention includes the connection of the above-described pneumatic structures and actuators with a suitable line system and valve system so that the various components can be correctly pressurized or so that the pressures in the components can be controlled and monitored.

Claims

1. A pneumatic cushion (5), in particular for sitting, lying or leaning upon, constructed of a pneumatic structure consisting of a covering (2) being air-tight and capable of being pressurized, in which webs (3) run between the upper side and the lower side, and in which chambers (4) are formed, characterized in that

the pneumatic structure is enclosed by a case (1) in such a manner that the case (1) is tensioned by the covering (2), which is pressurized with pressure ρ1.

2. The pneumatic cushion (5) according to patent claim 1, characterized in that at least part of the webs (3) of the pneumatic structure is embodied in a double-walled manner so that at least one gap is formed, which deforms when pressurized with a pressure ρ2, ρ2>ρ1, and which shortens the double-walled web (3).

3. The pneumatic cushion (5) according to one of patent claims 1 or 2, characterized in that at least part of the covering (2) of the pneumatic structure is embodied in double-walled manner so that at least a gap is formed, which deforms when pressurized with a pressure ρ2, ρ2>ρ1, and which shortens the double-walled covering (2).

4. The pneumatic cushion (5) according to one of patent claims 1 to 3, characterized 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.

5. The pneumatic cushion (5), in particular for sitting, lying or leaning upon, constructed of a pneumatic structure consisting of a covering (2), in which webs (3) run between the upper side and the lower side, and in which chambers (4) are formed, characterized in that

the pneumatic structure further consists of gas-tight tubes (6), at least one of which is arranged in each chamber (4),

the pneumatic structure is enclosed by a case (1) in such a manner that the case (1) is tensioned by the tubes (6), which are pressurized with pressure ρ1.

6. The pneumatic cushion according to patent claim 5, characterized in that at least a part of the webs (3) of the pneumatic structure is embodied in double-walled manner so that a gap is formed, in which a tube (6) can be arranged, which deforms when pressurized with a pressure ρ2, ρ2>ρ1, and which shortens the double-walled web (3).

7. The pneumatic cushion (5) according to patent claim 5 or 6, characterized in that at least part of the covering (2) of the pneumatic structure is embodied in double-walled manner so that at least a gap is formed, in which a tube (6) can be arranged, which deforms when pressurized with a pressure ρ2, ρ2>ρ1, and which shortens the double-walled covering (2).

8. The pneumatic cushion (5) according to one of patent claims 5 to 7, characterized 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.

9. The pneumatic cushion (5), in particular for sitting, lying or leaning upon, characterized in that it is constructed of

a pneumatic structure consisting of a plurality of pockets (7) arranged next to one another, each of which is connected with the adjacent pockets, and a tube (6) made of gas-tight material, which is capable of being pressurized and being arranged in each of the pockets (7),

a case (1) enclosing the pneumatic structure in such a manner that the case (1) is tensioned by the tubes (6), which are pressurized.

10. The pneumatic cushion (5) according to patent claim 9, characterized in that the pneumatic structure has at least two layers of pockets (7) with tubes (6) and in that the pockets (7) of the various layers are connected with one another.

11. The pneumatic cushion (5) according to patent claim 10, characterized in that the tubes (6) of the pneumatic structure are arranged in various layers staggered to one another.

12. The pneumatic cushion (5), in particular for sitting, lying or leaning upon, characterized in that it is constructed of

a pneumatic structure consisting of tubes (6) being arranged next to one another in at least one layer, which are at least partially connected to one another at their contact points,

a case (1) enclosing the pneumatic structure in such a manner that the case (1) is tensioned by the tubes (6), which are pressurized.

13. The pneumatic cushion (5) according to one of patent claims 3, 6, 8, 9 or 10, characterized in that the tubes (6) or chambers (4) of the pneumatic structures can be pressurized with various pressures in various layers.

14. The pneumatic cushion (5) according to one of the preceding patent claims, characterized in that the webs (3), the pockets (7) or the tubes (6) of the pneumatic structures can have bent and closed shapes.

15. The pneumatic cushion (5), in particular for sitting, lying or leaning upon, characterized in that the pneumatic structure is constructed, on the one hand, of one or a plurality of areas, wherein shaping webs (3) are affixed in the covering (2) so that chambers (4) are formed, and, on the other hand, of one or a plurality of areas, wherein webs (3) are arranged in the covering (2) in such a manner that tubes (6) can be arranged in the chambers (4), which are formed.

16. The pneumatic cushion (5) according to one of the preceding patent claims, characterized in that the pneumatic structure is constructed of a combination of at least two different pneumatic structures of the preceding claims.

17. An actuator for pneumatic cushions according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is pneumatically actuated.

18. The actuator according to patent claim 17, characterized in that a flexible plate (32) is affixed to a fastener (31), in that a pouch (34), which is arranged between the fastener (31) and the flexible plate (32), bends the flexible plate (32) when pressurized and pushes its free end to the side away from the fastener (31).

19. The actuator according to patent claim 17, characterized in that at least one pneumatic pouch (34) is arranged between two plates (37), which are coupled to one another by means of a hinge (38), said pneumatic pouch (34) is held in its position by means of a vane (39) and, when pressurized, presses the plates (37) open at their free ends.

20. The actuator according to patent claim 19, characterized in that a plurality of pouches (34) and a plurality of vanes (39) are arranged between the plates (37).

21. The actuator according to patent claim 17, characterized in that a flexible base plate (41) has a plurality of essentially parallel ribs (42), resulting in the formation of a plurality of grooves, in that a gas-tight tube is arranged in each groove so that the tubes (6) fill the grooves when pressurized and, in particular, push the grooves against the free ends of the ribs (42), which results in a bending of the base plate (41).

22. The actuator according to patent claim 21, characterized in that the ribs (41) and the tubes (6) can be present at one or at both sides of the base plate (41).

23. A pneumatic chair or seat with cushions (5) for sitting, lying or leaning upon according to one of patent claims 1 to 16, and actuators according to one of patent claims 17 to 22, characterized in that

the pneumatic chair or seat is divided into a plurality of areas, for example into ergonomic and functional areas, and in that at least one cushion (5), the pneumatic structure of which is optimized for the respective function, is present for each of these areas.

24. The pneumatic chair or seat according to patent claim 23, characterized in that the cushions (5) are combined to a seat, in particular a bucket seat, for a vehicle and in that a combination of a plurality of cushions (5) is present, for example in the shape of whereby the individual cushions can be adaptable and can be equipped with actuators.

seat cushions (45),

lordosis cushions (46),

thigh support (47),

leg guide cushions (48),

side supports (49),

back cushions (50),

shoulder cushions (51),

head support (52),

feet cushions or support,

lower leg cushions or support,