Abstract: A lateral tilting device for a patient lying on a mattress is capable of being inserted between the mattress and a level bed base or bed frame on which the mattress rests. The lateral tilting device comprises at least two independent first and second inflatable cells, pneumatically independent and positioned at least partly symmetrically from one another in relation to a median axis of the tilting device. The lateral tilting device includes two ‘U’ shaped inflatable compartments that are fitted into one another. A method for the lateral tilting of the mattress includes inflating a said first or second cell and concomitant deflation of the other second or respectively first cell of the tilting device laid out under the mattress.

Abstract: A lateral tilting device for a patient lying on a mattress is capable of being inserted between the mattress and a level bed base or bed frame on which the mattress rests. The lateral tilting device comprises at least two independent first and second inflatable cells, pneumatically independent and positioned at least partly symmetrically from one another in relation to a median axis of the tilting device. The lateral tilting device includes two ‘U’ shaped inflatable compartments that are fitted into one another. A method for the lateral tilting of the mattress includes inflating a said first or second cell and concomitant deflation of the other second or respectively first cell of the tilting device laid out under the mattress.

Abstract: A hospital bed includes a mattress support attached to an end panel of adjustable height. The panel comprises a lower frame and a movable upper frame defining between them two spaced vertical uprights, of telescopic structure, an actuating cylinder, and an extension amplification mechanism.

Abstract: A protective cover for a cushion or mattress is disclosed. The protective cover has an upper part, an internal pocket to contain a radiography cassette, and an inflatable support element between the internal pocket and the upper part.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for supporting an element to be supported, in particular the body of a patient. The apparatus comprises a support device 20 essentially comprising only at least one closed or controlled-release chamber 21 together with inlet and outlet means 26 via which the filling fluid can be fed in or removed, and an independent control device 40 is provided disposed under the support device 20, said control device 40 comprising filling and emptying means for filling the chamber with filling fluid or for emptying said fluid therefrom and the control means proper 50, 41, 42 for controlling feeding in and removing the filling fluid. The invention makes it possible to simplify manufacture and management of a support for supporting an element to be supported such as the body of a patient.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to comfortably support a patient on an inflatable chamber. The support apparatus includes an inflatable mattress and a pump to correct the pressure of the mattress. An inflatable chamber is provided below the mattress to act as a pressure transducer. When the difference in pressure between the inflatable mattress and the inflatable sensor reaches a predetermined value, a controller actuates a correction device including a pump and a release valve to correct the pressure of the inflatable mattress. The apparatus allows the mattress to be automatically maintained at a desirable pressure.