Memory foam was commissioned for development by NASA in 1966 to reduce impact and injury from space travel.  The open cell foam; or Visco Elastic Foam  was created by a new process of adding polyurethane to other elements to create high energy absorption, dense material which was able to distribute pressure and impact evenly and reduce pressure points.

Initial applications included medical pillows and cushions and seating cushions for disabled patients.  It eventually became the basis for a new style of bedding mattress that did not use the traditional coil or spring support, but used the “memory” or shape holding capacity of the open cell foam to cradle the sleeper and allow for individual sleep pattern support.

Tempur
One of the early forms of this memory foam was the development from Swedish scientists of Tempur-pedic® foam for mattress applications.  This product was inducted into the space technology hall of fame in 1998.

Memory Foam
The popularity of Visco Elastic Foam is seen in the wide applications of Memory Foam in support cushions, seating, helmet padding, mattresses and other applications.  Variations in density and height have created a wide range of products in Visco Elastic Foam with a competitive price.

The addition of Memory Foam toppers has created a nearly infinite set of possibilities for Visco Elastic Foam mattress combinations of support, comfort, luxury and air flow.

Benefits of Visco Elastic Foam
The benefit of Visco Elastic Foam is the “memory” element.  The product quality is measured in indentation depth of a 4 inch height foam sample.  The rating is based on the ability to reach 25% of the height of the 4 inch sample.  This indentation allows the foam to conform to the body shape, hug the sleeper and move with the body as it shifts in the night.

The Visco Elastic Foam is more firm when cool but softens as the body temperature and body weight affect the foam allowing a smooth transition as the sleeper moves or turns.

Applications of Visco Elastic Foam
New developments in Visco Elastic foam are being studied for the advanced energy absorption capabilities in automobile safety.  Using Visco Elastic foam as the material in head restraints is believed to reduce whiplash and other car crash related traumas.  The material is able to dissipate pressure of impacts and react to changes in temperature and shape dimensions.

Visco Elastic Foam is also used in automotive design to reduce interior noise and absorb vibrations and the related noise.

Memory foam is well known for its ability to eliminate pressure points for medical patients who are bed-ridden or disabled patients who are unable to shift in wheelchairs or other equipment.  The reduction in pressure point injury which can lead to bed sores has been well researched.  Memory foam or Visco Elastic Foam is well documented to reduce pain, bed sores and pressure injuries in long term care patients.

Mattress toppers and medical cushions are frequent applications for Visco Elastic or Memory Foam.

Share this: