Pneumatic sprung surface bearing and its uses

Abstract

A hydrodynamic sprung surface bearing having at least two bearing elements bearing against a tube-shaped container which is filled with a substantially incompressible medium, and against which side walls bear. Surfaces of the bearing elements bearing against the container are, in total, smaller by one order of magnitude than a surface of the container wall. Even for scarcely progressive, low pressure forces, the preferably T-shaped or anchor-shaped bearing elements cause overturning in a negative stroke direction, along with a pronounced change in shape of the container, and positive arching and consequently a very large coarse contour adaptation stroke. Therefore, a positively supporting adaptation stroke of the bearing elements is achieved. Overturning results in two separate chambers which bring about an inherent progressive damping by effectively reducing streaming through of the substantially incompressible medium. The hydrodynamic sprung surface bearing can advantageously be used for underframes of beds, and upholstery for couches and armchairs because of its pressure equilibrium adaptation capability to the body contour in all lying and sitting positions.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.