Support structures and methods

摘要

A support structure includes a first layer of foam material and a second layer of elastomeric gel material. In accordance with one example, the first layer of foam material includes a first side with a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of channels with the second layer of elastomeric gel material disposed within the plurality of channels. In accordance with another example, the first layer of foam material includes a first side with a plurality of protrusions and a network of channels surrounding at least one of the plurality of protrusions with the second layer of elastomeric gel material disposed within the network of channels. A third layer extends over the first support surface of the protrusions and the second support surface of the second layer of gel material. In accordance with yet another example, the first layer of foam material includes a first side with a plurality of protrusions extending through corresponding Shapertures of the second layer. In accordance with further examples, methods of making a support structure with a first layer of foam material and a second layer of elastomeric gel material are provided.

主权项

1. A support structure comprising:
a first layer of foam material including a first side with a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of channels, wherein the protrusions each include a first support surface substantially facing a first direction; a second layer of elastomeric gel material disposed within the plurality of channels and wherein the elastomeric gel material comprises a crosslinked gel material capable of retaining its shape, and forms a cured bond with the foam material of the plurality of protrusions and the plurality of channels, wherein the second layer includes a second support surface substantially facing the first direction and disposed laterally with respect to each first support surface; and a third layer extending over the first support surface of the protrusions and the second support surface of the second layer, wherein the second layer of elastomeric gel bonds the third layer to the first layer and the third layer includes a support surface substantially facing the first direction, wherein portions of the third layer are bonded with the second support surface such that the support surface of the third layer forms a plurality of support areas that are each vertically aligned with a corresponding one of the protrusions of the first layer.