Construction and Validation of a Multi-Level Evaluation System for Mattress Comfort

Abstract

Robust mattress comfort evaluation is essential for translating human-mattress interaction evidence into actionable product design requirements; however, current studies and standards often use non-aligned indicator sets and frequently treat comfort as a static, single-time-point construct. This study developed and validated a hierarchical, human-centered evaluation system that integrates subjective perceptions with objective interface pressure metrics and explicitly differentiates early- and later-phase comfort perceptions. Based on a systematic literature review and relevant standards (e.g., GB/T 43007-2023; EN 1957), candidate indicators were refined through expert ratings (n = 5) and redundancy screening, yielding a four-level framework (goal–dimension–primary–secondary) comprising three dimensions, six primary indicators, and ten secondary indicators. A controlled within-subject experiment was then conducted with 28 adults (19 normal-weight; 9 overweight/obese; 14 males and 14 females; 21–36 years) who evaluated soft, medium, and firm mattresses using a 5-point Likert scale (−2 to +2) while supine interface pressure was recorded at 5 min (early phase) and 30 min (later phase). The questionnaire showed good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.82) and content validity (CVI = 0.86). Across both body types, medium firmness yielded the highest mean ratings for later-phase overall comfort and fatigue relief. Whole-body pressure metrics showed limited associations with overall comfort, whereas regional pressure parameters, particularly in the shoulder and waist, exhibited clearer and body-type-dependent relationships with comfort-related ratings. The proposed system provides a structured basis for standardized comfort assessment and supports region-specific (zonal) mattress optimization.

Keywords: Mattress Comfort, Two-phase Assessment, Hierarchical Evaluation, Interface Pressure Mapping, Zonal Mattress Design

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007446