Abstract: A cellular cushion includes a base, a plurality of hollow cells, and a sealing layer. The base includes at least a first layer and a second layer. The plurality of hollow cells are coupled to the base and extend outwardly from the base. Moreover, the plurality of cells are coupled together in flow communication. The sealing layer is coupled to at least one of the base first and second layers. At least one of the sealing layer and the base defines a plurality of lock pockets, wherein each of the lock pockets is positioned between adjacent hollow cells for selectively controlling flow communication independently to each of the plurality of hollow cells within the cellular cushion. At least one of the plurality of hollow cells has a height of at least about 4.5 inches.

Abstract: In therapeutic apparatus, the combination comprising an adjustable cradle pressure exerting therapeutic cushion, a flexible sheath housing a cushion, an elongated support operatively connected to a sheath for maneuvering a sheath and cushion into selected position or positions for transmitting pressure between a person and a surface onto which a person's body weight is imposed via a cushion and sheath.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an air mattress including at least two separate zones. A first and second groups of elongate, inflatable cells are disposed alternately within each of the at least two separate zones. An air pump is to supply pressurized air. At least two air distributors are serially connected with the air pump for respectively distributing the pressurized air to the at least two separate zones. Each air distributor is operable to supply the pressurized air to the first and second groups of cells within each of the at least two separate zones. A pressure reducer is serially connected between any adjacent two of the at least two distributors for reducing the pressure of the pressurized air to a downstream one of any adjacent two of the at least two distributors.

Abstract: A therapeutic device that reduces localized subcutaneous pressure while allowing capillary flow in a medical setting is disclosed.

Abstract: An air cellular cushion according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: a plurality of air cells; a sensor configured to detect an air cell collapsing to a bottom; a parameter measuring unit configured to measure a parameter indicating a collapse state of the air cell collapsing to the bottom; an indicator configured to output an indication; and a control unit configured to change the indication output from the indicator based on a parameter value measured by the parameter measuring unit.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for preventing and/or inhibiting decubitus ulcers including a pad having first and second interconnected sections which form an open region there between. The first pad section includes a first chamber and the second pad section includes a second chamber. The first and second chambers are independently and selectively inflatable and deflatable to change the shape of the pad. The pad has an upper surface adapted to engage a user, the upper surface including a device for removably securing the pad to a user.

Abstract: A method of inflating, in alternating manner, inflatable cells of a support device for supporting an element to be supported is provided, which device is of the mattress type for supporting the body of a patient, said mattress being made up of cells that are inflatable with a fluid, in particular air, and having at least one zone made up of first and second series of inflatable cells referred to respectively as “first” cells and as “second” cells, the cells of each series communicating fluidly with one another and with inflation means, in which method alternating deflation and re-inflation cycles are performed during which each of said series of cells is deflated and then re-inflated in alternation and in succession, said first cells being deflated and then re-inflated simultaneously respectively with the re-inflation and with the deflation of said second cells, the alternating deflation and re-inflation of said first and second cells of the support device taking place in a cycle controlled by said inflation

Abstract: Spinal traction and restoration using application of forces in user-selectable distinct unitary directions by a rotatable pointable constrained inflator proximate a device base. The constrained inflator provides selectable, variable and pointable force to effect any of the following therapies: [1] Axial Traction; [2] Force to Upper Cervical Spine; [3] Force to Mid-Cervical Spine; [4] Force to Lower Cervical Spine; and [5] Traction Force Applied to Upper Thoracic Spine.

Abstract: There is provided a cushion (10) comprising an envelope (12) comprising at least an inner and outer layer (14, 16) of polyurethane material, and a resilient core (17) of an open-cell polyurethane foam material inside the envelope (12), wherein the envelope (12) is substantially air- and liquid-impermeable, and the inner layer (14) is at least partially attached to the outer layer (16) and the resilient core (17) so as to provide a plurality of microchannels of an outer surface of at least a top portion of the envelope (12), a kit comprising such cushion (10) and a removable cover, a cushion system and a method of manufacturing such a cushion (10).

Abstract: A pneumatic seat cushion system (10) has a deformable cushion (11) having a seating surface (12) and a self inflating cushion bladder (14) positioned beneath the seating surface (12). The self inflating cushion bladder (14) has an airtight envelope (15) containing compressible material (16) which is in air communication (19) with a displacement bladder (18) such that when in use the airtight envelope (15) and the displacement bladder (18) form a closed system from which no air can enter or escape. When there is no person seated on the seating surface (12), the self inflating cushion bladder (14) is inflated and the displacement bladder (18) is deflated. When there is a person seated on the seating surface, the weight of the person compresses the compressible material (16) so as to partially deflate the self inflating cushion bladder (14) which results in the contained air passing into the displacement bladder (18) which becomes fully inflated.

Abstract: A localized patient support comprises a base, an annular ring supported above the base and defining a cavity, and a gel pad having a plurality of sections located in the cavity. In some embodiments, the localized patient support includes a plurality of inflatable bladders located in the cavity between the base and the gel pad. At least some of the sections of the gel pad are vertically movable substantially independently of adjacent sections of the gel pad due to inflation or deflation of at least one of a corresponding bladder of the plurality of inflatable bladders. In some embodiments, the base and the annular ring comprise foam elements. In some embodiments, a cover is provided and has a stretchable anti-shear portion over situated above the gel pad.

Abstract: The present disclosure includes methods, devices, and systems associated with clinical support. In one embodiment, a clinical support pad includes a plurality of support cells formed in a first film layer of material sufficiently impermeable to a fluid contained in the cells such that each cell is configured to be alternately and repeatedly inflated and deflated with respect to one or more adjacent cells. Each cell is in fluid communication with at least one of a number of channels formed in the first film layer, is configured such that a surface of each cell has a continuous curvature across a length direction and across a width direction of the cell, and are spaced such that a distance between a center of each cell and a center of at least one adjacent cell is not more than a two-point discrimination threshold distance associated with a patient.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing a self deflating cushion whereby a volume of air within the cushion is controllably released to a surface of the cushion thereby providing a cooling effect to the seated anatomy of a user. The cushion further provides a variety of internal, open cell cushioning materials that store and release air during use of the cushion.

Abstract: A body support system for relieving contact pressure on a joint in a body, according to various aspects of the present invention, may be configured to elevate a chest portion of the body with a chest support that may be configured to form a taper disposed between a top portion and a bottom portion such that the weight of the body compresses the chest support, which may result in the chest support assuming a substantially inverted arc shape. The compressed edges of the arc may be occupied by the joint. The chest support may further be adjustable for positioning substantially between a collarbone portion of the body and a xiphoid process portion of the body when the body is in a side rest position.

Abstract: A cellular structure includes a base, a plurality of hollow cells coupled to the base, a sealing layer, and a pressurization system. The base includes at least a first layer and a second layer. The cells each extend outwardly from the base, and are grouped together in at least a first zone, a second zone, and a third zone. The cells in each of the first, second, and third zones are only coupled in flow communication with the cells in that respective zone. The pressurization system is coupled to the first, second, and third zones for selectively and independently pressurizing each of the zones. The pressurization zone is configured such that in a first mode of operation, the first zone is pressurized and the second and third zones are depressurized, and in a second mode of operation, the first zone is depressurized while the second and third zones are pressurized.

Abstract: Presented herein is a portable cushion that is divided into multiple inner cells, said structure comprising a base layer, at least two columns of at least two inflatable cells each disposed on said base layer, a lightweight, portable air pressure generator for supplying air to the cushion, and a hose to connect said cushion to said air pressure generator, wherein the inflating sequence of the cushion enables one layer of cells to fully inflate before the subsequent layer of cells is able to inflate.

Abstract: The air cells are attached detachably to the base members. By this, it is possible to set up the size or the arrangement of the air cells. For example, in a hospital, it is possible to change easily and inexpensively the air cells on a bed according to the patient's height, the body shape, the state, or the condition of affected part. Thus, it is exceedingly advantageous for dispersing the pressure added to the body.

Abstract: Embodiments of the technology provide a personal support device for provision of therapeutic support to a portion of a body resting thereon and methods associated with the device. Device embodiments include a substrate having an array of pressure-distributing element host sites, and a population of volumetrically-incompressible pressure-distributing elements at the host sites to form an array of pressure-distributing elements. A therapeutic surface overlays the pressure-distributing elements, and provides an interface between the array of pressure-distributing elements and an aspect of the body portion in contact with the therapeutic surface. The device is configured to form a supportive site within the therapeutic surface that is conformative to the aspect of the body portion in contact with the therapeutic surface when the body part is lying thereon.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an air cell which is capable of detecting that the upper end side and the lower end side of the air bag are nearer than a predetermined distance. This air cell has an air bag, a base member to which the lower end portion of the air bag is attached, an air chamber AR configured by the air bag and the upper surface of the base member, a thin film portion which forms the bottom surface of the air chamber and capable of deforming elastically in the up-and-down direction, an extending member configured to extend upwardly from the upper surface of the thin film portion, detecting means which is provided under the thin film portion and which detects downward deformation of the thin film portion.

Abstract: In one aspect, a pump for moving air includes an inlet, an outlet, an outer housing adapted to couple to an inflatable device, and an inner housing located within the outer housing. An air conduit is defined between the inner housing and the outer housing. A motor is at least partly positioned within the inner housing, and a plurality of vanes are positioned within the air conduit.

Abstract: A support surface includes a pump and a plurality of air cells that are selectively inflated and deflated by the pump. A proximity sensor detects whether an object is supported on the air cells, and a control unit connected to the pump and the proximity sensor controls operation of the pump based on a signal from the proximity sensor. Battery power can be saved by operating the device in a power save mode when the proximity sensor determines that the user has left the support surface.

Abstract: A patient support system for a wheelchair is provided. At least a portion of the patient support system components form a no-air-loss patient support surface. At least one fluid pump can supply air pressure to a plurality of no-air-loss air cells, and at least one pressure release valve can release air pressure from the no-air-loss air cells. A computer can compare air pressure within the air cells to a desired air pressure set point and can modulate the air pressure by actuating the at least one fluid pump and/or the at least one pressure release valve to bring the air pressure within the air cells to a desired air pressure. After the initial air pressure adjustments are made and the desired air pressure is achieved, no further adjustments during the operation are able to be made by the computer so that the patient positioned thereon the patient support system will not be moved by the patient support system during an operation.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for properly positioning a patient to allow rapid and effective endotracheal intubation during an anesthetic induction is disclosed. The apparatus includes a plurality of inflatable sections for supporting the patient's head and upper back, where the inflatable sections are independently inflatable and deflatable with respect to one another so that the patient's ear and sternum can be aligned in the same horizontal plane. The apparatus also includes an anchoring means that is attached to at least one of the plurality of inflatable sections for anchoring the apparatus in place. An air system connected to the plurality of inflatable sections and including separate connections to the individual inflatable sections operates to provide air to the apparatus. The apparatus optionally includes an independently inflatable cylinder in the anchoring means that is used in pregnant patients.

Abstract: A bed comprises a frame 34 with at least one orientation adjustable section (44, 46, 48), a mattress 58 supported by the frame and having at least one A bladder and at least one B bladder. The bladders are inflatable and deflatable out of phase with each other in coordination with at least one of a) issuance of a command for the frame section to change orientation and b) an actual change in orientation of the frame section. Also described is an associated method for operating an occupant support at least part of which is orientation adjustable relative to other parts of the occupant support. The method comprises providing, in response to a change of orientation of the orientation adjustable part, a relatively lower occupant/support interface pressure (OSIP) at a location A and a relatively higher OSIP at a location B followed by providing a relatively higher OSIP at the location A and a relatively lower OSIP at the location B.

Abstract: A seat cushion employing the benefit of a foam cushion and alternating pressure air cushion. An air bladder reservoir with vertically extending fingers is located beneath a foam core with vertical holes. The vertically extending fingers are aligned with the vertical holes of the foam core. The air bladder reservoir and vertically extending fingers are inflated and deflated by a compressor system which provides alternating timed pressure. When inflated, the fingers protrude through the holes in the foam core beyond the top surface of the foam core. A method for fabricating the vertically extending fingers includes a cloth material coated in silicon.

Abstract: An upper body elevator includes a generally wedge-shaped elevator body comprising a lower elevator pillow comprising a first plurality of adjacent air tubes and an upper elevator pillow comprising a second plurality of adjacent air tubes carried by the lower elevator pillow.

Abstract: A foot/leg cradle cushion prevents crossing of ankles or legs for long periods of time, which has been associated with circulatory problems related to cardiac or stroke episodes. The cradle cushion is a soft yet sufficiently supportive device whereby the feet and/or lower legs are held separated from each other and prevented from being crossed. The cradle cushion has a pair of outer flange walls extending upward from a base with a taller middle wall that separates the feet or lower legs of the user. Thus is formed a U-shaped recess on either side of the central wall which would receive each foot and/or leg separated by the width of the central wall. This effectively prevents leg crossing which causes compression of the user's circulatory system in both lower legs and ankle regions.

Abstract: This disclosure describes a patient support surface having a cover defining an interior region, with a plurality of inflatable zones and a plurality of control nodes located within the interior region. Each control node comprises an air control system including an air supply and a processor.

Abstract: A pillow having a first pillow and a second smaller pillow attached to a face of the main pillow by an attachment member that is of sufficient length and flexibility to allow the second pillow to be positioned in an infinite number of parallel and/or skewed orientations relative to the first pillow. A third pillow, also smaller than the first pillow, can be attached to the first pillow on a face opposite the second pillow by another attachment member that is of sufficient length and flexibility to allow the second pillow to be positioned relative to the first pillow and second pillow in an infinite number of parallel and/or skewed orientations. The invention provides a fully formed pillow and a pillow cover.

Abstract: A person-support apparatus comprises a container and a gas permeable support. The container is supported on a frame. The container includes a base and sides extending from the base to define an opening opposite the base. The gas permeable support is positioned within the container and cooperates with the base to define a chamber. The gas permeable support includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is generally parallel the base. The second portion is coupled to the first portion and forms an obtuse angle therewith. The gas permeability of the second portion varies as a function of the distance between the second portion and the opening.

Abstract: This application relates to inflatable apparel. In particular, this application discusses systems and methods for providing apparel that is both selectively inflatable and adapted for use as a pillow. The inflatable apparel may include any clothing or object that is adapted to be worn by a person and is selectively inflatable so as to act a cushion for the person wearing the apparel or of another. The inflatable apparel comprises an apparel item, such as a necktie, and an inflatable bladder. In some cases, the necktie is made to receive and retain the bladder in an inflated position or a deflated position. The bladder extends through at least a portion of the necktie. Additionally, when inflated, the bladder provides a pillow or cushion for use by the individual wearing the inflated necktie, or for use by an individual other than the person wearing the necktie.

Abstract: An air insert is designed for a proper fit into a cushion pelvic loading area that has sloped walls for positioning and properly supporting the human pelvis. The air insert may be segmented, or pre-contoured by the manufacturer, so as to be designed for a proper fit into the PLA. The seat cushion and the insert will provide comfort and support to the users.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling the flow of fluid for an inflatable body support 30 system, such as a mattress, having multiple, inflatable chambers. Each inflatable chamber can be selectively and independently inflated and deflated to vary the pressure exerted from the mattress surface to selected areas of a human body, thereby preventing the formation of decubitus ulcers. The system includes a valve assembly that includes a plurality of solenoid valves to direct air at a pressure of less than 1 pound per square inch into each chamber and a separate vent valve all operable by a controller to regulate the level of inflation of each inflatable chamber.

Abstract: A pad (10) of interleaving linear cells (2) has loop straps (1) to hold the central section of the cells (2) linearly in parallel with the cell axis (11), whilst the opposite ends (3) of each cell (2) are secured a pre-determined distance (4) off-set from the cell axis (11). The distance (4) can vary along the length of the pad. By fixing of the ends (3) of the cells (2) at a distance (4) away from the cell axis, each end (3) of the cell (2) is pulled away from the centre axis of the cell, the loop straps (1) and the cell (2) become tensioned, preventing the central cell section from moving or rotating. The resulting cell has been seen to dramatically reduce the movement of a user along the pad with improved user comfort and enhanced pressure relief.

Abstract: A patient support having real time pressure control. The patient support includes a plurality of sensors located beneath a bladder including a plurality of upright cylindrical elements. The pressure within the bladder is controlled based on the pressure or force sensed by the plurality of sensors.

Abstract: A system and method for maintaining an air inflation mattress configuration sufficient for patient support and comfort. Infrared illumination levels are measured within individual or groups of inflated mattress chambers. A staggered approach to illumination monitoring of chambers or sections to eliminate crosstalk between the infrared sensors is carried out. Distributed microprocessor controllers established in a network configuration utilizing controller network protocols reduces the wiring and connections necessary for the assembled system. Various mattress cushion construction techniques, such as sewing and or RF welding methods, are used for the creation of individual chambers utilizing specific types of IR translucent, transparent or reflective materials. The construction of the cushions and bladders in the system includes the use of various types of fabrics with low to high air loss qualities as required.

Abstract: An adjustable head support apparatus includes an adjustable head support member including one or more inflatable members; and an encasement layer configured to encase the one or more inflatable members. The adjustable head support apparatus further includes a measurement unit configured to provide measurements relating to a pressure of the one or more inflatable members; an analysis unit configured to determine goal characteristics of the adjustable head support member for a person using the measurements relating to the pressure of the one or more inflatable members; and a control unit configured to control adjustments to pressure of the one or more inflatable members using the determined goal characteristics.

Abstract: A system of modular, detachable cushions having surfaces containing hook and/or loop fasteners that fasten to mating loop, open weave or hook surfaces to define adjustable, conformal contoured support surfaces at user contact surfaces and appliances producing fatigue and/or abrasion (e.g. automotive seats, chairs, compartment walls, desks, footwear, helmets, tools etc.). The cushions can include air, elastomer, fabric, fiber, foam, liquid, gel, and/or rubber cushioning materials or combinations thereof arranged in envelopes, pads, cavities or tiered assemblies. The cushions include surfaces fitted with one or more layers of cushioning materials or envelopes of cushioning material and one or more regions of fastener materials that mate with interconnecting fasteners at the contact surface or appliance.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling the flow of fluid for an inflatable mattress having multiple, non-interconnected inflatable chambers and a moveable inflatable limb elevation chamber. Each inflatable chamber can be selectively inflated and deflated to vary the pressure exerted from the mattress surface to selected areas of a human body, thereby preventing the formation of decubitus ulcers. The limb elevation chamber may also be selectively inflated and deflated as well being positioned at any desired portion of the inflatable mattress in order to raise one or more human limbs off the surface of the mattress.

Abstract: A foldable mattress having an integral carrying pouch into which the mattress may be folded when not in use. Preferably, the mattress is at least partly inflatable so as to be floatable, and may have a mesh central portion surrounded by an inflatable portion. An inflatable pillow or headrest that is either fixed in place or detachable may be included. The pouch itself is preferably made, at least in part, of nylon mesh material.

Abstract: A support surface includes a plurality of support surface air cells arranged in an array; and a CPR air cell in fluid communication with the support surface air cells via a plurality of inlet ports. The CPR air cell includes at least one outlet port. The outlet port has a higher flow rate than the inlet ports. The use of the CPR air cell provides an economical and efficient mechanism for rapidly deflating an inflatable support surface in the event that CPR is required.

Abstract: An inflatable support cushion comprising a T-shaped cushion component divided into a center space, a first side extension, a second side extension, and a bottom extension, wherein the cushion component can be inflated with air via a valve; and a first joint in between the center space and the first side extension, a second joint in between the center space and the second side extension, and a third joint in between the center space and the bottom extension; each joint being a place where the top surface is bent inwardly toward the bottom surface; wherein the cushion component can be slightly bent at each joint.

Abstract: A portable cushion device is provided, including a first cushion region, a second cushion region, a control interface module, and an alarm unit. The second cushion region includes an inflation inlet. The first cushion region is located on the outside of the second cushion region. The control interface module is connected to the second cushion region, and is able to inflate the second cushion region to a specific pressure through the inflation inlet. When an object is placed on the second cushion region, the control interface module measures the weight of the object and monitors the object continuously. The alarm unit is triggered to issue an alarm when the control interface module detects a sudden increase or decrease of the weight of the monitored object on the second cushion region.

Abstract: An inflatable cushion is disclosed for turning a bed into a sofa. The cushion includes a reversible pump capable of moving a large volume of air for quick inflation/deflation and can be attached to the bed on which it rests or the wall supporting the cushion back. A fabric cover enhances the function and appearance of the cushion.

Abstract: A surgical positioning aid includes a n inflatable pillow with a non-inflatable sleeve. The non-inflatable sleeve has two substantially parallel attachment regions secured to a panel of the inflatable pillow and two open end portions to provide access between the non-inflatable sleeve and the inflatable pillow. The space between the non-inflatable sleeve and the inflatable pillow can be telescoped onto a surgical support post in proximity to an operating table. Air then can be directed into the inflatable pillow so that a patient can be supported relative to the post without creating pressure points on the patient.

Abstract: An inflatable mattress is provided that includes a top panel having a top surface, and a bottom panel having a plurality of perforations defined therethrough. The bottom panel is sealingly assembled to the top panel. An inflatable foot rest is attached to the top surface of the top panel and is suitable for raising at least one leg of a patient when the patient is lying upon the top panel.

Abstract: A system and method for maintaining an air inflation mattress configuration sufficient for patient support and comfort. Infrared illumination levels are measured within individual or groups of inflated mattress chambers. A staggered approach to illumination monitoring of chambers or sections to eliminate crosstalk between the infrared sensors is carried out. Distributed microprocessor controllers established in a network configuration utilizing controller network protocols reduces the wiring and connections necessary for the assembled system. Various mattress cushion construction techniques, such as sewing and or RF welding methods, are used for the creation of individual chambers utilizing specific types of IR translucent, transparent or reflective materials. The construction of the cushions and bladders in the system includes the use of various types of fabrics with low to high air loss qualities as required.

Abstract: A positioning system for a body comprises a flexible bag of a gas-impermeable material/including a valve to permit evacuation of the interior thereof, the bag containing a flowable granular material and at least one bolster. The body can be at least part of a human form, such as a patient. Systems are generally provided for specific body regions such as the hip or thorax, and for the whole body. The bolster is larger than the grains of the granular material. A size dimension of the bolster is therefore preferably at least 5 times the- size dimension of the granular material, although it sill usually be one or more orders of magnitude larger. Various forms of bolster are possible. A bolster that includes a generally flat section and an upstanding section extending therefrom can be used to locate a shoulder region of the patient in a reproducible yet comfortable form. A bolster that is generally cylindrical in shape can be used to support various areas of a patient such as the neck or knee.

Abstract: A travel pillow designed specifically for commercial airline travel is disclosed. The unique feature of this travel pillow is that it is designed to provide support for the legs of children and adults. It essentially allows a child to stretch out their legs directly out front and horizontal to their seat so there is no need to lie across accompanied travelers. The pillows shape is roughly a rectangular cube, when inflated to its maximum level it measures 12? by 18? by 18?, the pillow is firm but soft and sized and shaped to fit the leg room area in front of an airplane seat.

Abstract: A stretch assist cushion includes an upper member with an upper surface serving as a sitting surface in contact with the user's hip directly or through a covering member covering the upper member, the upper member made of an elastic material; and a lower member located below the upper member and with lower surface serving as a bottom surface in contact with a floor directly or through a covering member covering the lower member, the lower member made of a material harder than the material of the upper member. When the cushion is positioned such that the bottom surface is in contact with the floor, the sitting surface has a predetermined tilt angle relative to the floor, and the lower member determines a predetermined distance between the floor and the lowest point of the sitting surface that has the predetermined tilt angle.