VARIABLE RESPONSE PNEUMATIC SUPPORT

摘要

A pneumatic resiliency unit having a bellows with a bellows first section terminating in a bellows first section first end and a bellows first section second end, and a bellows second section terminating in a bellows second section first end and a bellows second section second end. A support surface engages the bellows first section first end and a backing plate is spaced apart from the support surface. An intermediate support platform is positioned a separation S from the backing plate and attaches to the bellows first section second end. and to the bellows second section first end. The bellows second section second end is engageable with the backing plate, and spaced apart therefrom when the support surface is load free. The separation S is preferably variable to change the response of the pneumatic resiliency unit to a load applied to the support surface. Further variation in the response is provided by altering the shape of the bellows or by restricting air flow between the bellows sections. The bellows can form a closed system or an open system. Multiple pneumatic resiliency units may be combined to form an extended compliant pneumatic support surface.