Abstract: A tubular spring assembly and a series of tubular spring assemblies for use in beds, chairs, or other cushioned surfaces, the tubular spring assembly having a tubular base member, a tubular second member that partially nests and is slidable within the tubular base member, a spring connecting the two tubular members, a ball joint affixed to the exterior of the second member and a pad attached to the ball joint wherein a series of tubular spring assemblies can be arranged within the interior of a bed, chair, or other cushioned surface to provide widely dispersed pressure onto the user.

Abstract: A bladder access device is disclosed that incorporates a load port and a valve connected to each other by way of a series of tubes. The valve is a four piece elliptical ring closed by a locking mechanism. The inner major axis portion of the elliptical ring has two inflatable cuffs. When fluid is injected into a self sealing and leakproof load port, the fluid flows through the series of tubes into the inflatable cuffs of the valve thus expanding them. This allows the elliptical ring to be placed around a patient's bladder and upon inflation of the inflatable cuffs, the valve closes onto the bladder allowing for continence. During this state of inflation, access can be made to the bladder by compressing the valve with two fingers. The valve closes automatically when released. The present device can be used as a closure control valve for other internal organs as well.

Abstract: A bladder access device is disclosed that incorporates a load port and a valve connected to each other by way of a series of tubes. The valve is a four piece elliptical ring closed by a locking mechanism. The inner major axis portion of the elliptical ring has two inflatable cuffs. When fluid is injected into a self sealing and leakproof load port, the fluid flows through the series of tubes into the inflatable cuffs of the valve thus expanding them. This allows the elliptical ring to be placed around a patient's bladder and upon inflation of the inflatable cuffs, the valve closes onto the bladder allowing for continence. During this state of inflation, access can be made to the bladder by compressing the valve with two fingers. The valve closes automatically when released. The present device can be used as a closure control valve for other internal organs as well.