With Means To Force Ventilation Patents (Class 5/652.2)
  • Patent number: 12016466
    Abstract: According to certain arrangements, a climate controlled bed includes an upper portion comprising a core with a top core surface and a bottom core surface. The core includes at least one passageway extending from the top core surface to the bottom core surface. The upper portion of the bed further includes at least one fluid distribution member positioned above the core, wherein the fluid distribution member is in fluid communication with at least one passageway of the core. The fluid distribution member is configured to at least partially distribute fluid within said fluid distribution member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2022
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2024
    Assignee: Sleep Number Corporation
    Inventors: Michael J. Brykalski, John Terech, Dusko Petrovski
  • Patent number: 11892443
    Abstract: A micro-environment controllable temperature and humidity system evaluates heat and humidity comfort level of textiles. The system includes a bed-shaped partitioned platform having one or more non-temperature and humidity-controllable sections and one or more temperature and humidity controllable sections. One or more temperature and humidity control machine is in communication with the one or more temperature and humidity control sections for supplying air with a pre-set temperature and humidity. A central controller electrically is connected to the one or more temperature and humidity control machines. The micro-environment controllable temperature and humidity system can perform partitioned control on the temperature and humidity in a micro-environment during sleep, and is used for studying the influence of the temperature and humidity on the comfort level of different regions of a subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: THE HONG KONG RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF TEXTILES AND APPAREL LIMITED
    Inventors: Lei Yao, Xiao Liao, Siyu Lin
  • Patent number: 11819133
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a body support assembly comprising (i) an upper cushion zone (6) and a lower cushion zone (7) and separated by a separation sheet (8). The cushion zones (6, 7) comprise of a compressible material which is permeable for air in all directions, (ii) a first flow path (10) for ambient air comprising an air inlet opening (11) at the bottom surface (3) of the support assembly, air displacement means (12), a first heat exchanger (13) and a single or separate air outlet opening (14) at the bottom surface (3) of the support assembly, (iii) a second flow path for air comprising an air inlet (19), air displacement means (20), a second heat exchanger (17), through the lower cushion zone (7), through openings (23) in the separation sheet (8) and through the upper cushion zone (6) and multiple air outlets (22) in the top surface (2). The heat exchangers (13, 17) are part of a Peltier effect unit (16) positioned within the cushion volume (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: UBED B.V.
    Inventors: Cornelis Franciscus De La Haye, Edmund David Aufenast
  • Patent number: 11684168
    Abstract: A bed system includes microclimate control capabilities for providing quality sleep experience. The bed system can include a microclimate control subsystem configured to supply conditioned air (e.g., heated or cooled air) to a mattress, or draw ambient air from the mattress, to achieve a desired temperature at the top of the mattress. Utilizing supply of conditioned air to provide air at desired temperature to the mattress system, or utilizing air suction to drain heat away from the mattress system, can provide precise microclimate control at the mattress, thereby permitting conformable sleep.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Assignee: Sleep Number Corporation
    Inventors: Kody Lee Karschnik, Chee Nong Yang, Eric Stephen Rose, Matthew Max Griffith, Reuben Wesley Meline, Caleb Siffring, Alexander Norell, Wade Daniel Palashewski
  • Bed
    Patent number: 11464344
    Abstract: A bed includes a mattress set on which a user's body is placed, an adjustable bedframe to adjust a position or orientation of the mattress set for various sitting and sleeping positions, and a dryer to dry the mattress set. The dryer includes a fan, a filter, and a heater to discharge filtered hot air toward the dryer to reduce mildew and mites. A humidity sensing sheet may be provided to sense a humidity level at different regions or areas of the bed, and the dryer may be controlled to supply hot air to regions of the bed having a higher humidity level than a predetermined humidity level or humidity range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Daewoong Kim, Minkyu Oh, Deukwon Lee, Yongnam Kim, Seongwoo An, Yanghwan No, Bodeung Hwang
  • Patent number: 10172470
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a support system includes a multi-layer support system with a number of layers. Systems and methods of removing moisture vapor from an environment surrounding patient are disclosed that accomplish such removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: Huntleigh Technology Limited
    Inventors: John Vrzalik, Ceasar Lina, Glenn C. Stroh
  • Patent number: 9907408
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a support system includes a multi-layer support system with a number of layers. Systems and methods of removing moisture vapor from an environment surrounding patient are disclosed that accomplish such removal without the use of powered air-movers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Assignee: Huntleigh Technology Limited
    Inventors: John H. Vrzalik, Cesar Lina, Glenn C. Stroh
  • Patent number: 9433300
    Abstract: A topper for a patient support surface includes an actively-cooled region that is positioned to deliver air flow under a specific area to provide localized treatment and/or moisture removal to a patient supported on the topper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Luke Gibson, Joshua A Williams, Rachel L. Williamson, Bryan W. Wuebker
  • Patent number: 9326903
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a support system includes a cover sheet with an electrically conductive spacer material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: Huntleigh Technology Limited
    Inventor: Christopher Locke
  • Patent number: 9254231
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a support system includes a cover sheet with a number of layers. In certain embodiments, a top layer and a bottom layer are bonded to a middle spacer layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: HUNTLEIGH TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventors: John H. Vrzalik, Kz Hong
  • Patent number: 8997279
    Abstract: A mattress including a plurality of layers, each layer extending in a substantially parallel, horizontal direction and being positioned in vertical relation to other layers and each layer further having a perforated or open-cell structure. At least one layer has a gel dispersed within the perforated or open-cell structure of the layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: King Koil Licensing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry C. McKay, David J. Roberts, Pete Baroni, Ross Olinski, Owen Shoemaker
  • Patent number: 8918930
    Abstract: Improved patient support systems comprising a coverlet configured to be coupled (e.g., removably) to an airflow unit. Improved airflow units configured to be coupled (e.g., removably) to a coverlet of a patient support system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Huntleigh Technology Limited
    Inventors: Glenn C. Stroh, John H. Vrzalik, Cesar Z. Lina, Daniel W. Dekruif, Bryan L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8914922
    Abstract: A mountable fan for massage table that is removably installable to an underside of an extant massage table headrest, said mountable fan for massage table having a generally ovoid hoop with an upper surface and a lower surface, a vent circumferentially disposed around the upper surface, a fan chamber radially disposed from the hoop, an electric fan disposed within the fan chamber, and an intake duct with a removable filter disposed therein, the intake duct disposed on the fan chamber, whereby air is drawn into the intake duct by the fan and forcibly expelled through the vent to relaxingly stimulate the face of a patient lying on the massage table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Inventors: Charles D. Wells, Wanda L. Wells
  • Publication number: 20140366277
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a support system includes a cover sheet with pressure-sensing mat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Applicant: Huntleigh Technology Limited
    Inventors: Christopher Niederkrom, John Youngdahl, John Vrzalik, Julie Burgett
  • Patent number: 8893329
    Abstract: A climate-conditioned bed includes an upper portion having at least a first climate zone and at least one fluid module associated with such a first climate zone. The fluid module comprises a fluid transfer device for selectively moving a fluid and a thermoelectric device for selectively heating or cooling a fluid. The bed additionally includes one or more control modules configured to regulate the operation of the fluid module, at least one input device configured to allow an occupant to select a setting or mode associated with the first climate zone and at least a first temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature associated with the first climate zone of the thermally-conditioned bed. In some embodiments, the fluid module is operatively connected to the control module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Gentherm Incorporated
    Inventors: Dusko Petrovski, Barry Steele, Michael Brykalski, John Terech, David Marquette
  • Patent number: 8881328
    Abstract: A body support assembly comprising a first layer (e.g., a visco-elastic foam) having a lower surface, and a second layer supporting the first layer and having an upper surface. One of the upper and lower surfaces is defined by a non-planar surface to define a plurality of passages. A fan is positioned to move air through the passages. Preferably, the non-planar surface comprises a plurality of protrusions (e.g., a convoluted surface). The body support can further comprise a sensor that detects a parameter and produces a signal, and a controller coupled to the sensor and programmed to control the fan. Multiple fans and sensors can be provided, and the controller can control the fans to provide different air flows through different locations of the body support assembly. A user interface can be coupled to the controller to allow selection of a desired parameter of the body support assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Tempur-Pedic Management, LLC
    Inventors: Tom D. Mikkelsen, Kelly W. Chandler
  • Patent number: 8856993
    Abstract: A person-support surface comprises a non powered mattress and a coverlet positionable on the non powered mattress. The coverlet includes an entry positioned at a first end of the coverlet, an exit positioned at a second end of the coverlet opposite the entry, an upper air impermeable layer, and a lower air impermeable layer coupled to the upper air impermeable layer to form an air flow path along the coverlet between the entry and the exit. The upper air impermeable layer is a vapor permeable and the lower air impermeable layer is a vapor permeable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Sandy M. Richards, Sam M. Alsaeede, Andrew Kerr, Stephen C. Flint, Christopher R. O'Keefe, Charles A. Lachenbruch
  • Patent number: 8806686
    Abstract: A seat cushion includes a cushion pad that is formed of breathable plastic foam, a breathable skin that is integrally layered on a front surface side of the cushion pad, and a non-breathable membrane-like film that is interleaved therebetween. The seat cushion includes a breathing hole formed in the film. The breathing hole extends from a back surface side of the cushion pad and passes through the cushion pad to penetrate the film. The breathing hole is formed while the cushion pad and the film are melted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Boshoku Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hirotaka Kawasaki, Yukio Ishihara, Masao Tada, Ryoichi Wakayama
  • Publication number: 20140201919
    Abstract: A compressible or retractable support is installed inside an air blower cavity of a body support system, such as a medical mattress with forced air flow. The support is compressed or retracted within the cavity when the air blower is inserted in the dynamic configuration of the body support system. The support rebounds to an uncompressed state to fill a greater portion of the air blower cavity when the air blower is removed to convert the body support system to a static configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventors: Marc J. Albero, Christopher S. Weyl
  • Patent number: 8745784
    Abstract: There is described a mattress system (20) comprising a mattress, an airflow driving device (14) and a heat adjustment unit (28). The mattress has a mattress cover (24) enclosing an internal mattress (10) such that a mattress air chamber is formed between the internal mattress and the mattress cover. The airflow driving device is in fluid communication with the mattress air chamber via an air chamber inlet and an air chamber outlet. The airflow driving device is operable to drive an airflow through the mattress air chamber from the air chamber inlet to the air chamber outlet. The heat adjustment unit is for heating or cooling the airflow so as to control a temperature of the airflow within the mattress air chamber. There is also described a mattress. In addition, there is described an apparatus for providing a temperature-controlled airflow through a mattress air chamber connected to the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Talley Group Limited
    Inventors: Nicholas Cole, Richard Taggerty
  • Patent number: 8745793
    Abstract: A mattress system includes a core mattress and a mattress cover. The core is made from a resilient material with a top surface that may be inclined with respect to the bottom surface. The removable mattress sheet covers the core and includes a breathable material that forms a hammock over a depression in the top surface. The subject rests at least partially on the hammock. One or more sidewalls of the mattress depression may have one or more openings to facilitate air circulation within the depression. The external ends of the openings may connect to an air or aerosol source to inject air or aerosols into the depression cavity. The core may be coated with a fire retardant, impermeable water-proofing or gas impermeable layer. A ventilator may be adapted within the mattress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Ubimed, Inc.
    Inventor: Jose Bensoussan
  • Patent number: 8732874
    Abstract: A climate controlled bed comprises a cushion member having an outer surface comprising a first side for supporting an occupant and a second side, the first side and the second side generally facing in opposite directions. In some embodiments, the cushion member includes one or more recessed areas along its first side or its second side. In one embodiment, the bed further includes a flow conditioning member that may be at least partially positioned with the recessed area of the cushion member, an air-permeable topper member positioned along the first side of the cushion member and a fluid temperature regulation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Gentherm Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael J. Brykalski, Jay C. Clark, Brian D. Comiskey
  • Publication number: 20140115790
    Abstract: A cover system includes a first layer providing a top surface over a patient support structure. A layer of spacer material is provided beneath the first layer. An air mover moves air through the layer of spacer material to remove moisture adjacent a person supported by the patient support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Romano, Sohrab Soltani, Michael V. Bolden
  • Patent number: 8601620
    Abstract: A cover system includes a first layer providing a top surface over a patient support structure. A layer of spacer material is provided beneath the first layer. An air mover moves air through the layer of spacer material to remove moisture adjacent a person supported by the patient support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Romano, Sohrab Soltani, Michael V. Bolden
  • Patent number: 8539624
    Abstract: A climate controlled seat assembly includes a seat cushion that has an outer surface with a first side for supporting an occupant in a seated position and a second side, which generally faces in an opposite direction than the first side. An air passage extends from the first side to the second side of the seat cushion. A support member has a first side that is configured to provide support to the seat cushion and a second side. the first side and the second side of the support member generally face in opposite directions. A distribution passage is in communication with the air passage and is formed at least in part by a recess formed at least in part in one of the first side of the support member and the second side of the seat cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Gentherm Incorporated
    Inventors: John Terech, David Marquette
  • Patent number: 8468628
    Abstract: An innovative pillow which contains openings for a person to place their face as well as side openings which enable air to enter the cavity so that the person can breathe. The device contains a fan which blows air into the cavity of the pillow so that a person can have cooling air while their face is in the pillow. The device can also be impregnated with essential oils such as eucalyptus so that the various beneficial therapeutic effects can be blown into a person's face while they rest their face within the pillow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: International Media Enterprise
    Inventor: Tom Kwok-Yung Cheng
  • Publication number: 20130139321
    Abstract: A resilient grid (10) for use with an inflatable cellular cushion (16) or mattress, the grid (10) comprising a plurality of openings (15), each opening (15) positioned and dimensioned to fit around a cell (20) of a cellular cushion (16) or mattress when the grid (10) is positioned on the base of the cushion or mattress. The grid can have an angled front support (23) side bolsters (26, 28). These components can be modular. The grid (10) provides stability and enhances positioning while providing temporary protection against bottoming out and provide airflow paths (22) among the cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: ROHO, INC.
    Inventors: J. David McCausland, Anthony Eric Sprouse, II
  • Patent number: 8418286
    Abstract: According to certain arrangements, a climate controlled bed includes an upper portion comprising a core with a top core surface and a bottom core surface. The core includes at least one passageway extending from the top core surface to the bottom core surface. The upper portion of the bed further includes at least one fluid distribution member positioned above the core, wherein the fluid distribution member is in fluid communication with at least one passageway of the core. The fluid distribution member is configured to at least partially distribute fluid within said fluid distribution member. The upper portion of the bed further comprises at least one comfort layer positioned adjacent to the fluid distribution member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Gentherm Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael J. Brykalski, John Terech, Dusko Petrovski
  • Patent number: 8402579
    Abstract: A climate controlled seat, bed or other assembly configured to receive a person includes a blower and two or more thermoelectric devices or other conditioning fluid modules. According to one embodiment of an operational scheme, a control system for the seat or bed is configured to continuously discharge air from the blower through the thermoelectric devices. In one arrangement, the thermoelectric devices are sequenced between an activated and a deactivated position. Consequently, the desired cooling and/or cooling effect can be maintained while reducing energy consumption of the climate control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Gentherm Incorporated
    Inventors: David Marquette, Dusko Petrovski, Brian D. Comiskey
  • Patent number: 8353069
    Abstract: A device for heating, cooling and emitting fragrance into bedding on a mattress of a bed which comprises a vented bladder placed upon the mattress under the bedding of the bed. A mechanism is for producing forced air being hot/cool and scented. A flexible air hose extends between the vented bladder and the forced air producing mechanism, to carry the hot/cool and scented air from the forced air producing mechanism to the vented bladder and into the bedding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Inventor: Anthony W. Miller
  • Patent number: 8241262
    Abstract: A flexible unit for collecting and transporting liquid to a collection point or to an area of use, and especially for facilitating management of urinary incontinence is provided which includes a flexible pad adapted to be positioned under an incontinent patient or worn under an undergarment. The pad is provided with an outer liquid permeable polymeric film layer, an outer liquid impermeable polymeric film layer and an intermediate cellular layer made up of a series of individual, spaced, thin wall, liquid impermeable polymeric cells. An aspiration assembly is connected to the pad for removing urine from the interior of the pad, which collects in the spaces between the individual cells. A disposable porous sheet, preferably comprising Dry-Weave® material, is releasably positioned over the outer permeable film layer of the pad. The pad may be sanitized and reused multiple times with only replacement of the Dry-Weave® sheet being required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Mahnensmith
  • Patent number: 8181290
    Abstract: According to certain arrangements, a climate controlled bed includes an upper portion comprising a core with a top core surface and a bottom core surface. The core includes at least one passageway extending from the top core surface to the bottom core surface. The upper portion of the bed further includes at least one fluid distribution member positioned above the core, wherein the fluid distribution member is in fluid communication with at least one passageway of the core. The fluid distribution member is configured to at least partially distribute fluid within said fluid distribution member. The upper portion of the bed further comprises at least one comfort layer positioned adjacent to the fluid distribution member. The bed also includes a lower portion configured to support the upper portion and at least one fluid module configured to selectively transfer air to or from the fluid distribution member of the upper portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Amerigon Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael J. Brykalski, John Terech, Dusko Petrovski
  • Patent number: 8065763
    Abstract: A climate controlled bed comprises a cushion member having an outer surface comprising a first side for supporting an occupant and a second side, the first side and the second side generally facing in opposite directions. In some embodiments, the cushion member includes one or more recessed areas along its first side or its second side. In one embodiment, the bed further includes a support structure having a top side configured to support the cushion member, a bottom side and an interior space generally located between the top side and the bottom side, the top side and the bottom side of the support structure generally facing in opposite directions, a flow conditioning member that may be at least partially positioned with the recessed area of the cushion member, an air-permeable topper member positioned along the first side of the cushion member and a fluid temperature regulation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Amerigon Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael J. Brykalski, Jay C. Clark, Brian D. Comiskey
  • Publication number: 20110271448
    Abstract: A mattress and/or seat cushion for reducing pain and anaesthetization of parts of the human body include a stretchable fabric case made of textile threads and elastomer or rubber threads woven together to form a stretchable fabric. The case has a top layer with a top surface and a bottom surface and a bottom layer with a top or inner surface and a bottom or outer surface and the size to cover a cushion for a seat or mattress that fits on a cot or bed. The seat cushion or mattress also includes a relatively thin resilient pad disposed within the fabric case adjacent the bottom surface of the top layer and includes a number of passageways extending therethrough. In addition, a mass of cleaned sand and mountain salt is disposed within the fabric case below the resilient pad and below the bottom layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Husain S.A. Faridoon
  • Patent number: 7996936
    Abstract: A climate controlled seat, bed or other assembly configured to receive a person includes a blower and two or more thermoelectric devices or other conditioning fluid modules. According to one embodiment of an operational scheme, a control system for the seat or bed is configured to continuously discharge air from the blower through the thermoelectric devices. In one arrangement, the thermoelectric devices are sequenced between an activated and a deactivated position. Consequently, the desired cooling and/or cooling effect can be maintained while reducing energy consumption of the climate control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Amerigon Incorporated
    Inventors: David Marquette, Dusko Petrovski, Brian D. Comiskey
  • Patent number: 7945979
    Abstract: A mattress with airflow-circulating function has a main body and a ventilator. The main body has a crisscross groove formed in the main body. The ventilator is detachably connected with the main body and has a hollow joint, four extending tubes and a curved tube. The joint has five openings. The extending tubes are respectively and securely connected to four of the openings of the joint to form a cross and are mounted in the groove. Each extending tube has multiple apertures formed in the extending tube. The curved tube is securely connected to the other one of the openings of the joint and is mounted through the main body. Accordingly, air can be pumped into the joint and is ejected out from the apertures toward the part of the human body. Therefore, the circulating airflow can massage the part of the human body, relieve the pressure and facilitate blood circulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventor: Chao-Liang Lin
  • Patent number: 7877827
    Abstract: A climate controlled seat, bed or other assembly configured to receive a person includes a blower and two or more thermoelectric devices or other conditioning fluid modules. According to one embodiment of an operational scheme, a control system for the seat or bed is configured to continuously discharge air from the blower through the thermoelectric devices. In one arrangement, the thermoelectric devices are sequenced between an activated and a deactivated position. Consequently, the desired cooling and/or cooling effect can be maintained while reducing energy consumption of the climate control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Amerigon Incorporated
    Inventors: David Marquette, Dusko Petrovski, Brian D. Comiskey
  • Publication number: 20080098529
    Abstract: The present disclosure concerns a device for controlling humidity at the surface of a supporting item (3) of the mattress or cushion type and in the vicinity of the body (13) of an individual resting thereon, comprising an envelope (1) formed by at least two parts (11, 12) connected with each other at their peripheral edges (1a, 1b), such as being sealed by welding (1c), defining an inner chamber (13), the two parts having a first part (11) intended to be positioned on the side of said body of the individual, and a second part (12) intended to be positioned on the side of said supporting item (3) of the mattress or cushion type, the first part including a material forming a barrier impervious to air and liquid water and pervious to water vapor, the second part including a material pervious to water vapor, the second part comprising at least one air injection port (4) and means for discharging air comprising perforated or porous areas pervious to air, such as perforations (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventors: Thierry Flocard, Gilles Camus
  • Publication number: 20070294831
    Abstract: A seat cushion for use in a wheel chair includes a foam pad contoured to the anatomy of a user positioned thereon and has an indentation in the middle thereof, which receives and drains incontinence fluid from the user. The foam pad encloses an air channel between the indentation and at least one side of the foam pad. A fan housed inside the pad pushes air through the air channel, into the indentation and onto the user. Alternatively, the seat cushion may house an air conditioner to circulate cooled air to the skin of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Publication date: December 27, 2007
    Applicant: AireRx Healthcare, LLC
    Inventors: Allen R. Siekman, Ballard Hillyer Pritchett, Dan McVicker, Richard Keith Ford
  • Patent number: 6871365
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a first conformable material having a three-dimensional shape and a first hypothermia and/or hyperthermia device. This invention is used as a pad for sleeping, lying down, or sitting, to maintain a desired temperature to the contacting surface of a body to the pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Gaymar Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Roland E. Flick, Joel T. Jusiak
  • Patent number: 6626488
    Abstract: A cushion for a motor vehicle seat includes a layer of ventilation fabric, through which air can flow, and miniature fans integrated into the cushion to blow air into the ventilation layer. The air is received in sleeves installed in ventilation channels which penetrate the cushion from a cushion bottom side and extend to an upper side of the ventilation layer. To achieve adequate cushion ventilation with low fan noise even when using thin fabric ventilation layers made of relatively hard material, the sleeves are closed on their upper end with a flange and are provided directly below the flange with oblong holes which extend in the circumferential direction and have a width measured in the axial direction which is equal to or less than the thickness of the layer of fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventor: Karl Pfahler
  • Patent number: 6619736
    Abstract: A vehicle seat ventilating system comprising at least one fan (4) arranged in the seat (7) and controlled by a central control unit (1) and an electric control unit (3) associated with each fan (4) for actuating the respective fan in response to control signals from the central control unit (1), wherein each electronic control (3) is arranged at the respective fan (4) Thus, each of the fans (4) arranged in the vehicle seat (7) has its own electronic control unit (3) that is located at the fan (4) and is connected to the central seat control unit (1) by a data line (2) that transmits control signals. The power supply currents required to drive the fan (4) are regulated directly in the electronic control unit (3) located at the respective fan (4). Thus, each of the fans (4) arranged in the vehicle seat (7) has its own electronic control unit (3) located at the fan (4) and is connected to the central seat control unit (1) by a data line (2) that transmits control signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: W.E.T. Automotive Systems AG
    Inventors: Stefan Stöwe, Matthias Pietsch, Matthias Michniacki
  • Patent number: 6619737
    Abstract: A seat module intended for a vehicle seat is designed as a seat cushion or backrest and can be actively ventilated. The seat module includes a cushion which has a lower foam layer impermeable to air, a central air-guiding layer made from a knitted fabric, and an air-permeable upper foam layer. The cushion is covered with a cushion cover and is divided by tacking into a face area and two side areas, which extend in the longitudinal direction. A cushion carrier accommodates the cushion. To improve the quality of the module for sitting comfort and long-term stability while achieving low manufacturing costs, the air-guiding layer rests on the lower foam layer in the face area of the cushion and directly on the cushion carrier in the side area of the cushion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Joachim Kunkel, Karl Pfahler
  • Patent number: 6606754
    Abstract: A first conformable material having a three-dimensional shape and a first hypothermia and/or hyperthermia device, used as a pad for sleeping, lying down, or sitting, to maintain a desired temperature to the contacting surface of a body to the pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Gaymar Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Roland E. Flick
  • Patent number: 6581225
    Abstract: The present invention provides an air supply mattress control system for the release of air at a controlled pressure and temperature to a user. A mattress or support member is supplied with pressurized air and has a plurality of force activated nozzle valve assemblies positioned across the upper surface of the mattress. When the upper surface of the valves are forced downward, the valves can release air from a manifold within the mattress. The air can be conditioned and pressurized by a pump and an air conditioning unit. Operation controls can be conveniently positioned adjacent a bed frame for setting the operation conditions of the air mattress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Kazumichi Imai
  • Patent number: 6546576
    Abstract: An improved structure of a ventilated mattress with cooling and warming effect is disclosed. The structure comprises a mattress body, a warming/cooling air-delivery controlling box, and a connecting tube. The control box produces warming/cooling air to the mattress body via the connecting tube and the warming/cooling air is released via a plurality of ventilation buttons mounted at the surface of the mattress body. Thereby, the mattress provides the user with a warming/cooling effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventor: Ku-Shen Lin
  • Patent number: 6341395
    Abstract: A ventilating bed cushion includes a frame, a ventilating device, an air supplying device, an upper layer of air-permeable fabric and a lower layer of waterproof fabric. The ventilating device has a polished upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface is formed with multiple vents. The ventilating device is formed with an inner air guide way for supplying a predetermined amount of air. Therefore, a specific portion of a patient's body lying on the bed cushion can be forcedly ventilated so as to avoid decubitus. In addition, the ventilating bed cushion is widely applicable and can be easily operated. In addition, it has a massaging effect and a low-cost simple structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Inventor: Yu-Chao Chao
  • Patent number: 6263530
    Abstract: A cushion (10, 12) has a plenum (16) which includes a plurality of flexible plastic woven tubes (34) held within a pair of similarly woven sheathes (38,40). The plenum has its sides and bottom covered by an air impermeable (14) layer with the top covered by an air permeable layer (20). A low to medium density foam pad (19) is located between the plenum (16) and the top layer (20). Conditioned air is provided to the cushions (10,12) from a Stirling cycle heat pump (44).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Inventor: Steve Feher
  • Patent number: 6171333
    Abstract: A heating and cooling comforter for heating or cooling a user. The heating and cooling comforter includes an inner bladder comprising a pair of panels coupled together along the outer perimeter of the inner bladder to define an air space therebetween. Each of the panels of the inner bladder has a plurality of spaced apart air apertures therethrough into the air space of the inner bladder. A comforter cover is also included comprising a pair of panels coupled together along the outer perimeter of the comforter cover. The comforter cover has an elongate slit therein between the panels of the comforter cover. The inner bladder is inserted into the comforter cover. A vent cover is included having an arcuate upper wall and an open bottom. An elongate conduit is extended between the from the inner bladder and the vent cover to fluidly connect the air space of the inner bladder to the vent cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventors: Merle D. Nelson, Linda F. Nelson