Abstract: A custom mattress having an upper layer and a lower layer. The upper layer has two or more segments arranged such that a first segment is positioned at a head of the mattress and a second segment is positioned adjacent the first segment at a first transition point. The lower layer has two or more segments arranged such that a third segment is positioned at the head of the mattress and a fourth segment is positioned adjacent the third segment at a second transition point that is offset a distance from the first transition point, the distance being measured along a longitudinal axis of the mattress. Each of the segments have different densities.

Abstract: A mattress having a flange construction for securing a border assembly is disclosed. The flange construction is formed of a material that is affixed along the perimeter of an upper surface of the mattress. The border assembly includes a flap material for binding the border assembly to the flange construction. The flap material may be adhered to the flange construction, thereby allowing the flange construction to anchor and secure the border assembly to the mattress.

Abstract: A mattress having variable height and hardness is disclosed. The mattress comprises a base layer held by a mattress cover using an extendable attachment system. The mattress further comprises one or more top layers made of resilient material which are stacked on top of the base layer. Only friction between the material of the top layers limit the lateral or longitudinal movements of a layer with regard to another layer.

Abstract: Devices for bringing a person that has fallen to the ground to an upright position comprise frames adapted to receive a person's body after a person has achieved a lying position, inflatable bladders attached to the frames on which the person's body rests when the bladders are in an uninflated state, the bladders being inflatable from a first position to a second position, and fittings attached to the inflatable bladders for receiving hoses to allow the inflatable bladders to be inflated from the first position to the second position.

Abstract: Systems, methods, beds, supports surfaces and machine readable medium for associating beds and support surface of a healthcare facility are disclosed. A surface association system for a healthcare facility may comprise a plurality of beds. The system may further comprise a computing device and a plurality of support surfaces to be placed upon beds of the plurality of beds. The computing device may associate a support surface of the plurality of support surfaces with a bed of the plurality of beds. The computing device may make the association based upon status data received from the plurality of beds and the plurality of support surfaces. The support surface and/or bed to be associated may initiate a surface association request. The computing device, in response to the surface association request, may request performance of one or more actions on the bed and/or support surface to be associated to identify the bed and/or support surface from the beds and support surfaces of the healthcare facility.

Abstract: A flippable mattress includes a first memory foam layer, a second memory foam layer, a core layer disposed therebetween and a transition layer between each foam layer and the core. The first memory foam layer has a thickness, and the second memory foam layer has a thickness that is greater than the thickness of the first memory foam layer. The first transition layer has an IFD less than that of the second transition layer. The mattress is flippable between a first orientation in which the first memory foam layer is above the core layer and the second memory foam layer, and a second orientation in which the second memory foam layer is above the core layer and the first memory foam layer.

Abstract: A double mattress that is particularly versatile thanks to a structure, which can be modified at any time according to particular needs or preferences, even if these differ between the two sides of the mattress. The book-like structure makes it possible to combine at will both the two different sides and the layers in contact with the body of two individuals with different needs.

Abstract: A height adjustable pillow is a hypoallergenic pillow having a closable pillow case and preferably five cushions within that may be added or removed one at a time to adjust the height of the pillow. The top cushion is stitched diagonally corner to corner to make it easier to place an infant on the pillow so that the infant's head is able to rest comfortably in a chosen position without rolling to a less comfortable position.

Abstract: This invention represents converting a conventional pillow into a therapeutic brio top head pillow in conjunction with a body pillow by creating a base for the pillow embodiment apparatus comprising of assembling two or more pieces, as necessary, of the embodiment and encasing the entire configuration with corpulent materials which would become comparable to a standard/queen conventional pillow along with a body pillow. Each piece of the embodiment comprises a flat face on one side and three tiered layers of bilateral symmetrical configuration from the center toward the outwards-opposing directions laterally. The assembly can be done as a face to face or back to back attachment of each side and encasing with materials. This pillow comprises a soft foam and/or other types of corpulent soft cushion for both the interior embodiment and/or casing.

Abstract: An air distribution pad comprises an upper layer, a lower layer, and a spacer material located between the upper layer and the lower layer, the spacer material configured to allow air to pass therethrough. An air distributor is configured to distribute air to the spacer material, wherein the air distributor comprises a port configured to receive an air hose, wherein the port is directed laterally sideways from the air distributor. At least one joining structure is coupled to the upper layer and the lower layer, the at least one joining structure providing one or more channels formed through the spacer material in fluid communication with the air distributor. The one or more channels are configured to direct generally laterally flowing air from the port of the air distributor to a generally longitudinal direction along the at least one channel.

Abstract: A foundation for a mattress is formed from one or more single-layer, unitary foam blocks with supports that extend across each foam block's bottom side. The supports provide crosswise support across a bed frame and can be directly attached to the foam block or may be provided in a kit or separately sourced. The foam block is rigid enough to support a mattress and is compressible so it has a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration, and its bottom side may have channels for the supports. In the compressed configuration, the foundation may be folded and vacuum-sealed in a plastic membrane which provides benefits for storing, shipping, and delivering the foundation. When the foundation is delivered to its place of use, the compressed foundation is removed from its packaging, allowing the foam block to return to its expanded configuration.

Abstract: A method including receiving an input regarding a mattress assembly from an end user, the input including an indication of a desired feel and a plurality of current layers included in the mattress assembly, querying a database using the received input, receiving a list of layers and a layer arrangement from the database in response to the query, determining if the plurality of current layers matches the list of layers, identifying at least one of a specialty layer or a replacement layer when the plurality of current layers do not match the list of layers, determining a recommendation including the list of layers, an indication of a cost of the identified at least one of the specialty layer or the replacement layer when the plurality of current layers does not match the list of layers, and the layer arrangement, and sending the recommendation to the end user.

Abstract: There is provided a biological information monitoring system for monitoring biological information of a subject on a bed, the system comprising: detectors which detect load of the subject; a center of gravity position calculating unit which acquires temporal variation of a center of gravity position of the subject based on the detected load; a body motion information determining unit which acquires information on body motion of the subject based on the acquired temporal variation; and a respiratory rate calculating unit which calculates a respiratory rate of the subject based on the acquired temporal variation and the information on the body motion of the subject. The body motion information includes information on large and small body motions of the subject, and the body motion information determining unit includes first and second body motion information determining units which determine the information on the large and small body motions of the subject, respectively.

Abstract: A multi-piece foldable headboard has a foldable multi-piece body member made using a plurality of panels that can be expanded when in use or collapsed for shipping and storage. A latch is provided to lock the body member in the fully expanded position, and posts are attachable for connection to a bed frame. The front surface of the body member is overlaid with a sheet of flexible material that functions as a hinge between the panels to give the headboard the look of a solid one-piece headboard when in the fully expanded, unfolded state.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus are provided for preventing and treating pressure ulcers in bedfast patients. The invention includes providing a non-powered mattress having a first zone adapted to conform to a first body part and a second zone adapted to provide support to a second body part, and off-loading interface pressure on the first body part to the second body part by dynamically increasing the support provided to the second body part by the second zone based on a weight of the first body part on the first zone. The off-loading of interface pressure from the first body part to the second body part equalizes blood oxygen saturation in tissue of the first and second body parts. Numerous additional aspects are disclosed.

Abstract: A foam core mattress including a cushion layer having a foam with an IFD of between about 6 to about 18 and a density of between about 1.5 lb./ft3 to about 4 lb./ft3. The mattress includes a core that is coupled with a bottom surface of the cushion layer. The core includes a matrix of rebond foam pieces that includes at least 5% foam pieces having volumes of less than about 0.5 in3, at least 40% foam pieces having volumes of between about 0.5 and 2.0 in3, and at least 20% foam pieces having volumes of greater than 2.0 in3, wherein the core has an IFD of between about 21 and 36. The mattress includes a base layer coupled with a bottom surface of the core. The base layer has an IFD of between about 28 to about 70 and a density of between 1.5 lb./ft3to about 2 lb./ft3.

Abstract: A mattress is disclosed, comprising two layers—a first layer and a second layer—each layer comprising a top surface and a bottom surface that are distinct in firmness, feel, and/or other parameters relevant to sleeping. The first layer and the second layer are stacked on top of each other and may easily be flipped and re-stacked by a user in the home.

Abstract: Mattress covers are disclosed that enable a user to provide a distinct consumer marketing appearance to a mattress.

Abstract: A flexible pillow device is provided that is formed of a plurality of pillow members connected in an aligned arrangement. The pillow members are connected along their sides and are pivotable relative to one another to form either a flat or arch configuration. The device is useful for serving as a one of a flat pillow, one that can conform to an underlying shape, or one that can form a free-standing arch shape with an open interior. In one embodiment, the pillow members include a first side portion that is aligned with an adjacent pillow member, and with a second side portion that is faceted inward to allow adjacent pillows to form against one another when in an arch configuration. Another embodiment contemplates rounded pillow members. When in an arch configuration, the open interior accommodates a user's arm for sleeping on one's side or when sleeping with a partner.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a cushioning device that includes a first foam layer including a first top surface and a first bottom surface, the first foam layer including a plurality of first channels located in the first top surface. Further disclosed is a support fluid cell located in each of the plurality of first channels. Moreover, a second foam layer including a second top surface and a second bottom surface is disclosed, the second foam layer including a second channel located in the second top surface. The cushioning device includes a counterbalance fluid cell located in the second channel. The second foam layer is located underneath the first foam layer. The first foam layer, in combination with the support fluid cells, create a support surface configured to support a load of a person.

Abstract: A foundation for a mattress is formed from a foam block and may also have supports that extend across the foam block's bottom side. The supports can be manufactured with the foam block or may be provided in a kit or separately sourced. The foam block is rigid enough to support a mattress and is compressible so it has a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration and its bottom side may have channels for the supports. In the compressed configuration, the foundation may be folded into a compact form and vacuum-sealed in a plastic membrane which easies in storage, shipping, and delivery of the foundation. When the foundation is delivered to its place of use, the compressed foundation can be removed from its packaging, allowing the foam block to return to its expanded configuration and placed onto a standard bed frame with the supports providing crosswise support across the frame.

Abstract: A mattress and an arrangement for altering a mattress' thickness or firmness, with an outer covering with a perimeter aligned with the perimeter of a mattress to be altered; an inner compressible material held within the covering; and a pocket is sized to accept a mattress insert, and wherein the pocket is attached on at least one side to a mattress.

Abstract: A cushion, mattress or mattress section for a convertible furniture article defines a plurality of apertures, such as slits or slots or recesses, extending into or through the cushion or mattress section that are cut in a direction at an angle to the first length of the mattress section. The cushion or mattress section expands from its first length to a second length that is longer than the first length upon applying a stretching force to the cushion or mattress section and thereby positioning the mattress section into the open or sleeping configuration. Expansion is due to resilience of the material forming the mattress or mattress section in combination with opening of the apertures. The sleeping surface of the mattress or mattress section may remain substantially planar in both the open (sleeping) position and closed (seating) position.

Abstract: A mattress is configured to have multiple zones made of springs configured in different orientations. A first zone of the mattress has springs packed in a first pattern, and a second zone has the springs packed in a second pattern that is different from the first pattern. The springs in the first zone and the second zone are the same type of springs. By packing the same springs in different patterns, the zones can have different firmness levels.

Abstract: The prevent invention relates to a functional mat (1) for assisting deep sleep of an infant. The functional mat (1) for assisting deep sleep of an infant, according to the present invention, comprises: a mat body (10) for supporting an object (100), which is the body of an infant, in the upward direction; a side supporter (30) protruding from the surface of the mat body (10) in the perpendicular direction so as to form an overall shape of a hill, thereby supporting the object (100) in the lateral direction; and a pressurizing supporter (50), which is positioned to intersect or cross in the width direction of the mat body (10), and which is fixed to the mat (1) and is forced against the object (100).

Abstract: The present invention discloses a three-layer three-zone memory foam mattress, comprising a mattress main body, wherein the mattress main body is composed of a top layer mattress body, a middle layer mattress body and a base layer mattress body, which are sequentially arranged from top to bottom, and a mattress cover is arranged on the surface of the mattress main body; and the middle layer mattress body is composed of a head mattress body, a waist and hip mattress body and a foot mattress body. The mattress is divided into three layers, the first layer is made of the colored gel memory foam, the second layer divides the high-density foam into three zones, the first and third zone adopt the retarding foam, while the second zone adopts the reinforced resilient foam, and the third layer is made of the physical solid-state reinforced foam.

Abstract: It is disclosed foam mattresses or toppers, and methods of using them, comprising a top surface defining lateral deflective areas thanks to structural modifications of the foam comprising a plurality of slots, grooves, voids or channels. The invention (mattresses, toppers or methods) allows controlling postural alignment while providing ultra-low mattress-body interface pressures for all body areas regardless of recumbent position. The method comprises the step of providing into a core section of the mattress a plurality of structural modifications comprising slots, and/or voids, to form transversal deflective areas into the mattress. The invention is preferably achieved by CNC (Computer Numerical Control) cutting the structural modifications (channels, slots and voids) into the mattress foam which support each area of the body. It is also disclosed mattresses or toppers in which foam inserts are kept or removed from the channels to modulate the deflections on one or both sides of the mattress.

Abstract: A foundation for a mattress is formed from a foam block and supports that extend across the bottom side of the foam block. The supports are preferably secured within channels in the bottom side of the foam block and can be attached to the foam block by an adhesive. The foam block is made of foam rigid enough to support a mattress and is compressible so it has a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration. In the compressed configuration, the foundation may be folded into a compact form and vacuum-sealed in a plastic membrane which easies in storage, shipping, and delivery of the foundation. When the foundation is delivered to its place of use, the compressed foundation can be removed from its packaging, allowing the foam block to return to its expanded configuration and placed onto a standard bed frame with the supports providing crosswise support across the frame.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of assisting sleep, including apparatus and methods for assisting sleep. In one form, the invention provides a postural support apparatus comprising a first supporting means (5) adapted to support the head of the user, a second supporting means (15) adapted to support the rib cage of the user, and a recess (3) intermediate the first supporting means (5) and the second supporting means (15), the recess (3) being adapted to accommodate at least part of an arm of the user, wherein the apparatus aligns the head and spine of the user such that the user's airways are kept open.

Abstract: A method for automatically varying the internal air pressure in at least one inflatable air bladder associated with at least one zone of a pressurized mattress system to achieve an optimal zone air pressure for a patient. The method includes a step of incrementally decreasing the zone air pressure of the at least one zone until more than a predetermined percentage or portion of the patient is directly supported by a substrate disposed below the at least one inflatable air bladder. The method then determines the appropriate increase in zone air pressure to achieve the optimal zone air pressure for the patient.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing therapeutic treatment for symptoms associated with GERD and/or other digestive disorders and/or other medical conditions are described herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a base support and a support pillow member. The base support includes a support element portion and an encasement portion. The support element portion has a first end portion and a second end portion and a top surface disposed at an angle relative to a bottom surface of the support element. The second end portion has a height greater than the first end portion. The support element portion and the encasement portion collectively define an interior region. The support pillow member is disposable within the interior region. The support pillow member, the support element portion and the encasement portion collectively define a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of a user's arm and/or shoulder therein.

Abstract: The invention provides a cushioning system having an adjustable contoured surface, the system comprising a panel, a plurality of cells; and attachment means for detachably attaching one or more cells to the panel at any location on the panel and in any orientation relative to the panel to provide the contoured surface. The contoured surface is determined by the number, shape, size, position, and orientation of cells on the panel. Optionally, the cells can be attached to each other and stackable upon one another.

Abstract: A modular pod mattress with an integral mattress subsurface platform rail system, a plurality of modular pods to be securely fitted into the mattress subsurface platform rail system, a first compartment to house a mattress lining, and a second compartment to house a mattress topper. The mattress subsurface platform rail system comprises a plurality of rails for forming a series of track mounting spaces for receiving and securing the plurality of modular pods. Each modular pod consists of a plurality of coils springs with varying elasticity that is dependent on the user's height and weight distribution. The modular pods may be removed and replaced pod by pod once worn as opposed to replacing the entire mattress.

Abstract: A seat tie apparatus and method of using same, the apparatus including a cushion material contained within an enclosure. A first strap is connected at each end thereof to the enclosure and extends across a first back corner of the enclosure. A second strap, spaced apart from the first strap, is connected at each end thereof to the enclosure and extends across a second back corner of the enclosure. First and second ties are slidably coupled to the first and second straps, respectively. Each of the first and second ties is constructed of at fabric strip coupled to itself about a central portion thereof to form a loop. The straps are arranged to extend through the loops and allow the ties to slide there along.

Abstract: A mattress has a perimeter rail having a head end, a foot end, and two sides, each having an inner surface, and at least two substantially parallel rectilinear sections. Each section comprises an array of springs whose tension is selected to provide a predetermined firmness for that section. Each adjacent pair of sections is urged into a spaced-apart relationship by a spacing means, where each spacing means comprises a flexible spacer. The flexible spacer restricts or substantially eliminates the translation of movements between the sections of the mattress, while avoiding the use of uncomfortable separation means.

Abstract: An aspect of the present invention relates to a method and system of receiving information of a user's support facility comfort requirements; using a software application to determine a proper support facility firmness configuration to match the user's requirement; selecting foam springs with the proper user required firmness as determined by the software application; and configuring the selected foam springs within the support facility to match the user's firmness requirements.

Abstract: A mattress includes a mattress body having a top substrate and a bottom substrate separated by a resilient layer having a mattress thickness to resiliently conform to a body of a person. The mattress includes an aperture formed in the top substrate and the resilient layer mattress that is oriented proximate to an upper torso portion of the body of the person. The mattress includes an insert that is shaped to be received in the aperture and has an upwardly open recess to receive an upper portion of the body of the person. An upwardly open recess can be formed directly in the top resilient layer of the mattress body oriented proximate to an upper torso portion of the body of the person.

Abstract: A hinge mechanism and mattress for use with a child containment device. A first mattress panel is pivotally coupled to a second mattress panel by a hinge mechanism, and is thereby convertible between an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration. The hinge mechanism defines a limit point beyond which pivotal motion is prevented in at least one direction.

Abstract: A patient support apparatus is convertible between a bed position, having a generally horizontal sleeping surface upon which a person lies in a supine position, and a chair egress position, allowing a person to exit the support from a sitting position. The patient support comprises a deck, a foot panel coupled to the deck, and an inflatable bladder assembly coupled to the foot panel. The inflatable bladder assembly is coupled to the foot panel and both the foot panel and inflatable bladder assembly are removable from the deck.

Abstract: A patient handling device includes a deck for supporting a patient support surface, a controller, and a user interface. The user interface is actuatable by a user to record a state of a plurality of conditions of the patient handling device. The controller is in communication with the user interface and operable to monitor the plurality of conditions and to generate a first unified indication when all the conditions remain unchanged from their recorded state, and to generate a second indication when any of the conditions change from their recorded state.

Abstract: A pillow, mattress pad, mattress pad and pillow system, and mattress are provided having a plurality of zones for providing a selected distribution of pressure across different parts of a sleeper's body. The pillow has a first zone of elasticity for supporting the head of a sleeper and an integral second zone of elasticity for supporting the neck and upper thoracic spine, said pillow comprising a firm high resistance foam lower portion and a viscoelastic foam upper portion matingly contoured to the lower portion and internally sealed to the lower portion along a surface of predetermined curvature.

Abstract: An adjustable mattress includes a body portion and an extension portion. The body portion includes a first plurality of spaced-apart fingers extending outwardly from at least one edge thereof. The extension portion includes a second plurality of spaced-apart fingers extending outwardly therefrom. The first plurality of fingers are configured for inter-fit engagement with the second plurality of fingers. The extension portion is movable relative to the body portion to vary a degree of inter-fit engagement of the fingers between a first position, wherein the adjustable mattress defines a first dimension, and a second position, wherein the adjustable mattress defines a second dimension.

Abstract: Body support systems such as mattresses include breathing layers that define internal air flow guides and form part of the structure for pressure redistribution. At least one air flow unit is coupled for fluid communication with the breathing layers so that heat and moisture may be drawn away from an uppermost comfort layer or body-supporting layer, through the breathing layers, and exhausted out of the body support system. Alternatively, air may be directed through permeable portions of the layers of the body support system to the uppermost layer, particularly at the torso supporting region.

Abstract: A turning platform having longitudinally extending side portions hinged to a central portion and hydraulic, or pneumatic, expansion means beneath each side portion operated by control means to raise and lower said side portions by rotating them about the hinges in a predetermined sequence.

Abstract: An adaptable surface system including a plurality of individually adjustable surface units and a plurality of pressure sensors. Each pressure sensor corresponds to one of the adjustable subsurface units and is positioned to measure an amount of pressure exerted upon the subsurface unit. The system also includes a controller that receives a first pressure value from a pressure sensor, compares the value to a threshold, and adjusts the height of the first subsurface unit based on the comparison. The controller also receives a second pressure value from a second pressure sensor, compares the second pressure value to the threshold, and adjusts the height of a second subsurface unit based on the comparison.

Abstract: A plunger for a matrix mattress includes a pin guide having a flange and a guide body extending from the flange. A pin slidably received within the pin guide includes a flange located above the flange of the pin guide and a shaft extending from the flange through the guide body. The flange of the pin carries a deformable head. A tension spring has a first end fixed to the guide body and a second end located below the guide body positioned to receive a bottom end of the pin shaft. The spring is configured to resiliently stretch with downward motion of the pin with respect to the pin guide. A dampening device captured around the shaft of the pin between the flange of the pin and the flange of the pin guide resiliently deforms with downward motion of the pin with respect to the pin guide.

Abstract: A modular mattress includes several plunger matrix sections that each have a respective plunger matrix support platform. The several sections are configured for side-to-side assembly to form the complete matrix for the mattress. A foldable edge frame snugly receives and houses the plunger matrix sections in side-to-side relation. The edge frame also defines a flange on an internal surface of the edge frame that supports plunger matrix sections in side-to-side relation in a position allowing the plungers to move up and down within an internal space defined by the edge frame. A top pad lays on top of the edge frame and the plunger, while a cover configured encapsulates the edge frame, the plunger matrix, and the top pad into a self-contained mattress unit.

Abstract: A foldable mattress includes plunger matrix sections and corresponding flexible connectors connecting the plunger matrix sections in side-by-side relation. The flexible connectors are configured to allow the foldable mattress to fold to adjust in shape corresponding to changes in shape of a mechanically adjustable frame supporting the foldable mattress. The foldable mattress may include a foldable edge frame configured to snugly receive and house the plunger matrix sections in side-to-side relation. The edge frame defines a flange on an internal surface of the edge frame configured to support the plunger matrix sections in side-to-side relation in a position allowing the plungers to move up and down within an internal space defined by the edge frame. A top pad lays on top of the edge frame and the plunger matrix sections. A cover encapsulates the edge frame, the plunger matrix, and the top pad into a self-contained mattress unit.

Abstract: A plunger matrix mattress includes a number of independently movable foam padded plungers that form an array of independently movable points of support. This type of mattress significantly improves body contouring over conventional coil spring mattress designs. The plunger matrix mattress also allows substantial airflow through the mattress improving over conventional foam mattress designs. Different plungers may have different spring and dampening characteristics to allow different plungers and plunger zones of the mattress to exhibit different firmness levels. Individual plungers may be removed and replaced independently, for example to replace the plunger with another plunger with a different spring characteristic, and make other types of adjustments and repairs.

Abstract: The invention relates to a support apparatus on which a patient can be supported in a comfortable and secure manner for the preparation for an examination and for the examination, in particular an endorectal biopsy. The support apparatus comprises a sliding apparatus connected to a bearing substructure and is supported in a displaceable manner on the sliding apparatus so that it can be moved partially beyond the substructure connected to the sliding apparatus. The support apparatus also comprises a cutout. The invention also relates to a patient support table comprising a connecting apparatus to connect the patient support table to the support apparatus and serving as a bearing substructure for the support apparatus. A medical device, in particular an MR device, is also disclosed comprising a patient tunnel and the patient support table that can be introduced into the patient tunnel.