Abstract: Apparatus for coupling to a flotation support system as, for example, a water mattress or the like, for purposes of effecting periodic oscillations of said system. The apparatus comprises an expandable and collapsible air bladder, which is positioned beneath the system in force transmitting relationship therewith. An air pumping means is connected in a pneumatic circuit with the air bladder so as to pressurize the bladder and expand same against the overlying support system. Means are provided for periodically venting the pneumatic circuit and air bladder to atmosphere, in consequence of which the bladder collapses under the weight of the overlying system; and thereupon expands following the venting. The resultant expansions and contractions of the bladder thereby effect the desired oscillations of the system.

Abstract: A flotation support system is disclosed, which includes a generally rectangular air frame, defined by a tubular air-filled member, which member surrounds an open region. A base sheet extends beneath the open region to define with the air-filled member a nesting receptacle for a fluid-containing envelope. Means are provided for spacing the envelope above the underlying base sheet, so that the space between the envelope and base sheet may define an accumulation space for fluid leaking from the envelope. Such spacing means may comprise a platform positioned in the nesting receptacle with an upper surface thereof underlying and supporting the envelope in spaced relationship from the base sheet. The platform may include passages to enable fluid flow to the accumulation space defined between the platform surface and base sheet, whereby leakage from the envelope may flow to the said space to prevent undesired collection of leaked fluid about the edges or above the envelope.

Abstract: A flotation support system including a generally rectangular air frame, which is defined by a tubular air-filled member which surrounds an open region. A base sheet extends beneath the open region and is secured to the tubular member to define with such member a nesting receptacle for a fluid-containing envelope. The base sheet passes beneath the said frame and is secured to the tubular member toward the outer peripheral border thereof, to provide a receiving slot between the lower side of the tubular member and the adjacent portions of the sheet. The envelope has dimensions exceeding that of the open region, so that the peripheral portions of the envelope are received into the said slot. The peripheral portions of the envelope are elastically constrained by the slot, to thereby constitute a buffer volume for liquid displaced from the central portion of the envelope in consequence of an individual being emplaced upon such central portions, to thereby provide improved cushioning characteristics.

Abstract: A cushioning appliance for supporting patients on wheel, geriatric chairs, or the like. The device includes a generally rectangular air frame, which is defined by a tubular airfilled member which surrounds an open region. A base sheet extends beneath the open region and is secured to the tubular member to define with such member a nesting receptacle for a fluid-containing envelope. The portion of the tubular member which defines the front of the air frame, has a substantially larger cross-section than that of the opposed portion defining the rear side of the frame. In consequence, when a patient is seated upon the appliance, the front-to-rear differential in frame height shifts the weight of the patient rearwardly to aid in stabilization of such patient. The base sheet is preferably secured to the tubular member toward the outer peripheral border thereof. This provides a receiving slot between the lower side of the tubular member and the adjacent portions of the sheet.