We are pleased to announce that the Polish Patent Office has granted patent protection for the invention titled “Set of Substrates with Variable Hardnes” (P.436749, Pat.246059). Its creators are Filip Bąk and Dr. Magdalena Osial from the Department of Theory of Continuous Media and Nanostructures IPPT PAN (previously the Faculty of Chemistry of the University of Warsaw), and PhD, DSc, Eng. Agnieszka Pręgowska from the Department of Information and Computational Science IPPT PAN.
The invention introduces a novel substrate system that dynamically adapts to user interaction. The system employs an advanced modular architecture integrating an intelligent magneto-rheological fluid and specialized magnetic pads attached to the user's footwear. The core functional mechanism involves flexible modules filled with the magneto-rheological fluid, which exhibit real-time hardness modulation in response to external magnetic fields. Upon foot contact with the substrate, the embedded magnets in the footwear induce an increase in the viscosity of the magneto-rheological fluid, thereby solidifying the contact area and providing a stable and firm surface. Conversely, regions outside the direct contact zone retain a soft state, ensuring impact absorption and reducing the risk of injuries associated with falls.
Potential Applications
This groundbreaking substrate system offers broad applicability across various domains:
- Medical Rehabilitation: The system facilitates controlled and safe rehabilitation environments, particularly benefiting patients with neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, by mitigating fall-related injuries and enabling tailored therapeutic exercises.
- Sports and Athletic Training: The invention is well-suited for sports applications, such as martial arts training, by providing protective mats that dynamically adjust surface hardness to minimize the risk of injuries while maintaining optimal training conditions.
- Educational and Recreational Spaces: Schools and playgrounds can incorporate the technology to enhance child safety by establishing adaptable play zones that absorb impacts, thereby reducing injury risks.
- Theatrical and Interactive Entertainment: The substrate system can be utilized in theaters and entertainment venues to create dynamic, interactive stage environments, fostering creative performances and immersive experiences.
- Home Safety and Accessibility: The technology has potential applications in residential settings, particularly for elderly and disabled individuals, by enhancing safety and comfort through intelligent flooring solutions that reduce fall impact.
The Set of Substrates with Variable Hardness represents a significant advancement in adaptive surface technology, offering a novel solution for enhancing safety, performance, and user experience across multiple fields.
