EDGE STRUCTURE FOR BODY SUPPORT SURFACE

摘要

An edge structure for a body support surface configured to provide generally rigid support for a suspension component, such as a load bearing fabric, while being flexible in response to a direct load, such as an occupant sitting directly on the edge structure. The edge structure is configured to have a substantially greater moment of inertia in the direction of loads applied by the suspension component than in the direction of direct loads. In one embodiment, the edge structure includes an arrangement of main beams and segmented beams. In another embodiment, the edge structure may include a beam with flex grooves. The flex grooves may be filled with a resilient material. In another aspect, the edge structure may include separate sections molded directly to the suspension component. The sections may be rotated and joined to form a peripheral edge structure. Rotation may place the suspension component under tension.

主权项

1. A body support surface comprising:
a suspension component adapted to support an occupant; an edge structure secured to said suspension component, said edge structure configured to bend in a first direction in response to loads generated by said suspension component and a second direction in response to direct engagement of the occupant with said edge structure, said edge structure having a first moment of inertia in said first direction and a second moment of inertia in said second direction, said first moment of inertia being substantially greater than said second moment of inertia.