Abstract: A compact, fully self-contained low air loss, pressure relieving mattress system for use in supporting individuals at home or in a hospital or health care environment. The system includes a foam mattress having a hollow interior in which to receive an inflatable air plenum and a blower housing. A blower for exhausting air to the plenum and a variable speed motor for driving the blower are located within the blower housing. A pressure control knob is disposed on a manually accessible control panel at the blower housing to permit selective control of the speed of the motor and the rate at which air is exhausted by the blower for inflating the plenum according to the needs of the individual.

Abstract: A mattress is provided having a body which incorporates a plurality of air supply chambers which are connected to air supply conduits, a plurality of inflatable air sacs being mounted on the mattress for supporting a person thereon and being connected to ports in the chambers so that air can be supplied to the air sacs via the conduits and supply chambers.