Abstract: A vent assembly for use with a drinking vessel includes a flexible ventilation member configured to sealingly engage an opening in the drinking vessel and having an air passage extending therethrough, wherein the ventilation member is configured to allow an inflow of air when pressure within the drinking vessel enters a negative pressure state in relation to pressure outside the drinking vessel, wherein the ventilation member comprises one or more venting portions disposed within the air passage. A vent actuator is operably coupled to the ventilation member and configured to change a state of the ventilation member between a ventilation state and a closed state, wherein the vent actuator is integral with the ventilation member and configured to bring the ventilation member into the ventilation state upon contact with a cam portion.

Abstract: A vehicle seat having a backrest and a seat part, as well as at least one sidewall arranged on the backrest or on the seat part, the sidewall having two support portions that are coupled together, by a coupling means, and are movable relative to one another, between which support portions at least one hollow body that can be filled with fluid is arranged, the relative position of the two support portions with respect to one another, and thus the outside contour of the sidewall, being variable by filling or emptying the at least one hollow body. The coupling means is designed such that, upon filling or emptying of the at least one hollow body, the two support portions are variable relative to one another, both in translation and in their angular position.

Abstract: A shock absorbing system for force attenuation, impact modification or reduction, employs an envelope having a chamber containing a first working fluid, the envelope deformable in response to the impulse to attenuate impact force. A plurality of resilient supplemental absorber elements dispersed within the chamber. The plurality of resilient supplemental absorber elements are deformable in response to the force to assist in attenuating impact force and provide additional resilient restoring force to return the envelope to a pre-impact shape. In alternative implementations, a unitary cell for energy dissipation employs an envelope having a chamber containing a first working fluid and an inner element contained within the chamber and having an inner chamber containing a second working fluid.

Abstract: Automated vending system for dispensing disposable inflatable mattresses includes a kiosk for housing a plurality of mattress packages. Each mattress package includes a disposable inflatable mattress with an inflating means. The plurality of mattress packages is positioned in a storage rack within the kiosk. The system further includes a robotic mechanism configured to engage a first mattress package from the storage rack and deliver the first mattress package to a product delivery area of the kiosk. The system furthermore includes a user interface configured for receiving a user selection of the first mattress package, and a controller configured to command the robotic mechanism to select and deliver the first mattress package to the product delivery area.

Abstract: An article includes a cushioning assembly which has a first bladder element forming a first fluid chamber, and a second bladder element within the first bladder element and forming a second fluid chamber sealed from and within the first fluid chamber. The first bladder element includes an inner surface having a first feature. The second bladder element includes an outer surface having a second feature. The first feature interfits with the second feature such that a first area of the inner surface of the first bladder element is aligned with a first area of the outer surface of the second bladder element at a bonded interface. The second bladder element is exposed to the first fluid chamber away from the bonded interface. A method of manufacturing the article includes interfitting the first feature with the second feature and bonding at the bonded interface.

Abstract: A ventilation system includes a plurality of air tubes within the sheet all of which are interconnected to a manifold. The topside surface of the air tubes comprises a plurality of nozzles which communicate with the outside environment of the sheet. The sheet is configured to create a positive flow of air through each nozzle when the manifold is connected to the exhaust portion of a blower. The system also includes means for administering a scented material in the flow of air generated by the blower. The blower motor may be operated by remote control.

Abstract: Described herein are multifunctional smart beds and methods of operating thereof. Specifically, a multifunctional smart bed comprises a controller, configured to receive input from various sensors (e.g., load cells positioned in bed legs, thermometers, and/or microphones) and/or user. These inputs are analyzed and used to control various bed components to improve the sleep quality, to monitor users' health, score couple's relationship, and the like. For example, these inputs may be used to control firmness of different mattress portions, change orientations of head, torso, and/or leg sections, adjust the light, and the like. In some examples, the smart bed generates a report indicating one or more sleep duration, sleep depth profile, sleep scope, heart rate, breadth rate, environment conditions, couple's relationship, and the like. Furthermore, in some examples, a multifunctional smart bed is also configured to control external devices in the same environment, e.g., smart switches, smart thermostats.

Abstract: A collapsible seat assembly includes one or more pneumatic bladder members providing, in an inflated state, at least a base portion and a seatback portion of the collapsible seat assembly, and a plurality of internal rigid frame members disposed at least partially within the one or more pneumatic bladder members. At least a portion of the one or more pneumatic bladder members can attach to at least a portion of the plurality of internal rigid frame members to provide a support for the one or more pneumatic bladder members.

Abstract: A dynamic support apparatus. The dynamic support apparatus includes a cushion, at least one actuator wherein the at least one actuator defines an interior volume and wherein the interior volume may be configured to be at least partially filled with a fluid, and a support disposed in the interior volume wherein the support configured to support an occupant when the interior volume is not filled with the fluid such that the support is sufficient to support the occupant.

Abstract: A modular mattress renewal system is disclosed. A support lattice is made up of a plurality of compressible nodal foam blocks connected one to the other by block connectors that fit into guide apertures within the nodal blocks. The connectors themselves are also compressible and flexible and the compressible nodal foam blocks are provided with an adhesive portion that allows the user to customize the support necessary. Additionally, the nodal foam blocks have varying degrees of compressibility and varying compressibility gradients and are marked as such to further enhance the support customization possible. Thus, sagging mattresses or mattresses with indentations from use over time may be rehabilitated.

Abstract: A dynamic support apparatus. The dynamic support apparatus includes a cushion, at least one actuator wherein the at least one actuator defines an interior volume and wherein the interior volume may be configured to be at least partially filled with a fluid, and a support disposed in the interior volume wherein the support configured to support an occupant when the interior volume is not filled with the fluid such that the support is sufficient to support the occupant.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and apparatuses for enhanced comfort through contact pressure reduction. In particular, the systems and apparatuses disclosed herein prevent or otherwise mitigate pressure by actively orienting a patient over an anatomy-specific pressure-mitigating contact surface on which the patient rests. A pressure-mitigating contact portion of the contact surface includes a plurality of independently pressurized chambers configured in a specific geometric pattern that is designed to mitigate contact pressure between a support surface (e.g., bed or chair) and a specific anatomic region of a patient's body when the specific anatomic region of the patient's body is oriented over an epicenter of the geometric pattern.

Abstract: A lifting assembly includes a pillow that may be positioned between a user and a support surface after the user has fallen onto the support surface. The pillow may support a weight ranging between approximately 250 pounds and 500 pounds. A valve is attached to the pillow and a pump is selectively attached to the valve. The pump selectively urges air into the pillow thereby facilitating the pump to inflate the pillow. The pillow lifts the user upwardly from the support surface as the pillow is inflated thereby facilitating the user to stand up. The pillow reaches a height ranging between approximately 18 inches and 25 inches with respect to the support surface when the pillow is inflated.

Abstract: An air mattress with an internal pump has a plurality of air cell groups lined up in the lengthwise direction of the air mattress. Each of air cell groups has a plurality of bladder-shaped cells lined up in the lengthwise direction of the air mattress. The air mattress has an air supply/release pump; and an air tube linking the air cell groups and the air supply/release pump in an independent system for each air cell group out of two or more air cell groups. All of the bladder-shaped cells are rod shapes extending in the widthwise direction of the air mattress, and the length of the air cell groups corresponding to the leg area of a reclining person is up to 30% less than that of the other bladder-shaped cells, leaving a space between there and the edge of the air mattress in which the air supply/release pump is disposed.

Abstract: An inflatable product has a first layer and a second layer, each layer having a peripheral edge, with the first and second layers joined together along their peripheral edges to define an internal space for receiving air or fluid. Each layer has a uniform thickness throughout except that the thickness along the peripheral edge of each layer is greater than the thickness of the rest of the layer. A plurality of tension members can also be provided inside the internal space, each tension member having a first end that is joined to an inner surface of the first layer, and a second end that is joined to an inner surface of the second layer. Each tension member has a uniform thickness throughout except that the thickness along the first and second ends is greater than the thickness of the rest of the tension member.

Abstract: Method to manufacture a personalized mattress (1) from a basic part (2) with a recess (2) and inserts (3, 4, 5), which comprises the following steps: determination of the anthropometric data of a person; determination of the optimum distances over which the mattress (1) has to be deformed in a number of positions so that the spine of the person in this position has the same shape, insofar possible, as when the person is standing upright; determination of the deformation characteristics that a mattress (1) must have at these positions; selection of inserts (3, 4, 5); fitting of the inserts (3, 4, 5) in the basic part (2).

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a cushioning device that includes a plurality of fluid cells each containing fluid for supporting a load. The cushioning device further includes a manifold system interconnecting the plurality of fluid cells, a first reservoir, and a second reservoir connected to the first reservoir in series. The first and second reservoirs are connected with a pressure relief valve allowing fluid to escape from the first reservoir to the second reservoir when the pressure in the first reservoir exceeds a threshold and a check valve allowing fluid to flow back from the second reservoir to the first reservoir. Further disclosed is a method of cushioning a body with a cushioning device.

Abstract: An air delivery system that includes an inflatable cushion device adapted to support at least a portion of a body of a user. The air delivery device includes a supply conduit in fluid communication with both an interior region of the inflatable cushion device and a controller. Using a pressure sensor, the controller is adapted to relatively continuously measure a static air pressure level of the interior region and compare the measured static air pressure level to a target air pressure level. Further, the controller is adapted to intermittently operate an air pump. Moreover, the controller may operate the air pump when measured static air pressure is below the target static air pressure level, and deactivate operation of the air pump, which may include maintaining the air pump in an un-operated condition when the measured static air pressure is within the target static air pressure level.

Abstract: A wheelchair cushion comprises a dual stiffness fluid. A cushion also comprises an ability to adjust fluid volume.

Abstract: This disclosure relates generally to inflatable mattresses in the form of beds, chairs, couches, or other gas-inflatable structures. The mattress has an internal support structure with one or more diagonal structural support elements comprised of rigid or flexible cords or cables that are coupled to the top, bottom, and/or sides of the air mattress. The support elements provide increased top-to-bottom, side and/or corner rigidity when subject to top loading. The mattress may also include an integral handle structure so as to allow a user to readily lift and/or transport the air mattress when inflated.

Abstract: An inflatable cushion including: an inflatable body, having an upper surface and a lower surface, said body including an air-impermeable skin defining a chamber, an elastic foam core within said chamber and a sealable air valve; and an external elastic foam layer substantially covering at least one of said upper and lower of surfaces; wherein: the foam core is formed of a foam having a density of between about 15 kg/m3 and about 35 kg/ma and a hardness of between about 25 newtons and about 45 newtons; and the foam layer is formed of a foam having a density of between about 35 kg/m3 and about 65 kg/m3 and a hardness of between about 35 newtons and about 95 newtons.

Abstract: A support apparatus, for use in supporting a device such as a sex toy, the inflatable apparatus comprising an attachment portion and a holding portion which is attached to the attachment portion, and which defines an aperture therethrough, the holding portion having an inflatable element which is operable to adjust the size of said aperture.

Abstract: A support surface assembly comprises a support surface and a multi-zone chamber comprising two or more inflatable bladders forming the support surface. In an example, first and second bladders of the multi-zone chamber are arranged in a head to toe configuration and are substantially free to move with respect to one another. In another example, a flexible joint is included between first and second bladders, the flexible joint including one or more releasable fasteners. In another example, a fluid communication conduit between first and second bladders couples the first and second bladders in a series fluid communication. In another example, the bladders form an array of bladders arranged in series from a head to a foot of the support surface, wherein each of the bladders has substantially the same dimensions.

Abstract: The objective of the present invention is to provide: a cushion cell with a new structure which is designed to disperse stresses when the cushion cell is in an inflated state such that excellent durability is achieved and in which a large support area for the human body can be obtained with excellent space efficiency relative to a square shaped space for disposal in an inflated state; and a cushion body with a new structure using the same. The cushion cell is formed with a fluid chamber inside and the height of the cushion cell can be changed by adjusting the pressure in the fluid chamber. The planar shape of the cushion cell in a deflated state is a square shape, and each side part has a curved shape protruding outwards.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a framed air pillow system, using air pressure to provide stability and comfort for a user when sitting in an upright position. The invention comprises of a base frame structure, an inflatable air chamber having an air pump and a rectangular cushion pad, wherein said system having means to adjust the angle between said base and said rectangular cushion pad.

Abstract: Patient support systems and, more particularly, patient support systems designed to reduce the risk of developing pressure sores by a patient are disclosed. A control unit is provided that operates a pump for setting and maintaining the inflation of the patient support system. The control unit is configured to receive a weight of a patient (either automatically from an integrated weighing device or as input by a caregiver) using the patient support system. The control unit then operates the pump to fill and maintain the patient support system to a predetermined pressure based upon an electronically stored pressure versus weight model accessible to the control unit, where the pressure versus weight model is set to avoid bottom-out and overpressure conditions for the patient having the weight.

Abstract: A tie arrangement for use with a body support unit, the body support unit including a plurality of columns arranged substantially parallel to one another, each column including a plurality of fluid-tillable substantially spherical cells connected together, the tie arrangement including a tie member having at least one retention aperture configured to be releasably connected to a column at point of reduced diameter between two neighbouring cells.

Abstract: A patient support for supporting a patient includes an inflatable mattress defining a support surface and a pneumatic system for inflating the inflatable mattress. The pneumatic system includes a pressurized reservoir for holding pressurized air and selectively releases pressurized air from the reservoir to the mattress.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cushion for preventing pressure sore. The cushion for preventing pressure sore includes an air cell layer, an air passage layer, a base layer, and a plurality of air ducts. The air cell layer has a plurality of air cells; the air cell layer is divided into at least four air cell zones. Air cells in each air cell zone are in communication with each other, but air cells in any two adjacent air cell zones are not in communication with each other; the air passage layer is under the air cell layer and has a plurality of air passages therein. Each air passage is in connection and communication with at least one of the air cell zones; the air passage layer and the air cell layer are disposed on the base layer; an end of each air duct is in communication with a corresponding air passage, and the other end extends out of the cushion and is provided with a joint; and each air duct has a respective valve.

Abstract: A cellular cushioning system includes cells or support units arranged in one or more stacked arrays. The cells are hollow chambers that resist deflection due to compressive forces, similar to compression springs. The arrays are attached to one or more intermedial binding layers. The intermedial binding layer(s) links the cells together while allowing the cells to deform independently of one another. An external load compresses of one of the void cells within an independent compression range without significantly compressing at least one void cell adjacent the compressed void cell. The independent compression range is the displacement range of the compressed void cell that does not significantly affect the compression of adjacent void cells. If the void cell is compressed beyond the independent compression range, the intermedial binding layers may be deflected and/or the void cells adjacent the compressed void cell may be compressed.

Abstract: A system and method of use directed to a pressure monitoring and management system for a subject in the seated or laying position is disclosed herein. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system and method of use for monitoring and managing the pressure distribution and alleviation of pressure of a subject in the seated or laying position for the avoidance of skin and tissue breakdown also known as decubitus ulcers or pressure sores. In one embodiment, the system is comprised of a control member, an air supply member, and bladder members. In another embodiment, the system is also comprised of a user interface member and pressure sensor members. In yet another embodiment, the system is also comprised of moisture sensor members.

Abstract: Transfer pads for horizontal and/or vertical translocation are provided. The transfer pads include the fewest possible number of components required to provide a plenum chamber, the operative features of which are controlled at least by the provision of one or more interior sheets having specific characteristics with respect to position, perforation and attachment.

Abstract: A cushion or mattress comprising a base and a plurality of linearly aligned individual air cells across the base. Groups of individual air cells can be interconnected and in fluid cooperation with an inflation source, such as a pump. In one aspect of the invention, the inflation of adjacent cells is staggered, for example, in a checkerboard-like inflation pattern that helps diffuse load over a wider area.

Abstract: Method and devices for the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers are described in which a portable support assembly may be worn by a bed-stricken individual around particular regions of the body where pressure ulcers tend to form. The portable support assembly may generally include one or more individual fluid filled pods which are enclosed entirely within an inner fluid pad localized along a central portion. Both the one or more pods and inner fluid pad are then enclosed entirely by another layer of fluid within an outer fluid pad which extends over the entire assembly. Each of the fluid layers may be secured to an outer shell which is relatively stiffer than the fluid layers and may restrict or limit the expansion or movement of the fluid pods and/or fluid pads.

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

Abstract: The invention provides a mattress comprising an array of air springs, each in communication with a supply of air for selectively varying the air pressure within said spring, so as to provide a resilient body against which a user may recline; an aperture in an upper surface of each air spring, providing access to a cavity within said spring, said cavity open to ambient pressure and sealed from the air supply.

Abstract: Valve assemblies optionally with inflatable bodies for modulating fluid expulsion from an inflatable body, without active user participation. Valve assemblies include, in separate components or in integrated form, a vent body defining an external orifice, an internal orifice in fluid communication with the external orifice, and an inflatable body interface. Extending from the internal orifice is a collapsible, hollow elongate member defining longitudinal and lateral axes. Sealing closure of the elongate member, which is preferably constructed from a resilient material, results from application of generally opposing mechanical forces across a lateral surface of the elongate member. Compression localizing members may be used proximate to the elongate member to increase closure performance. In addition, performance parameters can be varied by modifying the physical characteristics of the compression members (height, upper surface area, lower surface area, composition, density, use of localizing ridges, etc.

Abstract: The invention relates to an inflatable device comprising an electromechanical device and a self-sealing valve, and in particular, to any inflatable device that includes the assembly. In some embodiments, at least a portion of a fluid controller is coupled to and supported by an inflatable bladder of an inflatable device. The fluid controller may be located in a compartment, and the compartment may be within the profile of the bladder. The inflatable device may be a single bladder mattress or a dual bladder mattress. The inflatable device may include a heater or an articulation device. The inflatable device may be multi-positional device or have a storage compartment. The inflatable device may be configurable using one or more members such as a membrane or fasteners.

Abstract: An apparatus and method providing variable support and variable comfort control of a sleep system, the apparatus including a sleep support member including: a comfort layer including: a plurality of comfort layer inflatable members; and a comfort layer sensor configured to provide data relating to respective pressures of the comfort layer inflatable members; a data analysis unit configured to analyze data provided by the comfort layer sensor and to generate analyzed comfort layer data; and a control wait configured to control a pressure within each of the respective comfort layer inflatable members using the analyzed comfort layer data.

Abstract: Provided is an inclination device for bedding that is portable and enables suppression of apnea and stertor when sleeping. The inclination device for bedding is provided with a rectangular inclination surface on which the human body rests, and a fluid bag that is disposed below the inclination surface and expands into a triangular column shape or the like by providing a fluid. A support part which is a long part at both ends of the inclination surface is disposed at a location where the support part is in contact with the bedding. The inclination surface can be inclined left and right by providing liquid to the liquid bag, with the support part of the inclination surface serving as the fulcrum. In particular, the following structure is preferable: by installing at least two fluid bags in a stacked state, expansion is performed in a fan shape with the fixed part of the fluid bag serving as the fulcrum.

Abstract: An apparatus and method providing variable support and variable comfort control of a sleep system, the apparatus including a sleep support member including: a comfort layer including: a plurality of comfort layer inflatable members; and a comfort layer sensor configured to provide data relating to respective pressures of the comfort layer inflatable members; a data analysis unit configured to analyze data provided by the comfort layer sensor and to generate analyzed comfort layer data; and a control unit configured to control a pressure within each of the respective comfort layer inflatable members using the analyzed comfort layer data.

Abstract: The invention provides a variety of devices for supporting at least a portion of a user's body. In some embodiments, the invention provides a support device which includes a bladder capable of containing a fluid and a post adjacent the bladder. The bladder may form a rolling diaphragm portion with the post such that when a force is applied to the bladder, the rolling diaphragm portion of the bladder rolls along the post decreasing the volume of the bladder. In some embodiments, the invention provides a post which includes a reduced cross-sectional area in comparison to an adjacent region of the post such that the resistance of the rolling diaphragm portion of the bladder to rolling movement along the post due to the applies force decreases as the bladder rolls along the reduced cross-sectional area region. In some embodiments, the support device includes a plurality of bladders and/or a plurality of posts.

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: Method and devices for the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers are described in which a portable support assembly may be worn by a bed-stricken individual around particular regions of the body where pressure ulcers tend to form. The portable support assembly may generally include one or more individual fluid filled pods which are enclosed entirely within an inner fluid pad localized along a central portion. Both the one or more pods and inner fluid pad are then enclosed entirely by another layer of fluid within an outer fluid pad which extends over the entire assembly. Each of the fluid layers may be secured to an outer shell which is relatively stiffer than the fluid layers and may restrict or limit the expansion or movement of the fluid pods and/or fluid pads.

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 height adjustable pillow includes a neck support portion and a chin support portion integrally formed with the neck support portion. The neck support portion is used for surrounding the neck of a user while the chin support portion is used for supporting the chin of the user, has a cylindrical shape and is formed with a first Velcro strap at one side thereof. The neck support portion is formed with a second Velcro strap for adjustably connecting the first Velcro strap. An inflate valve is mounted on one of the neck support portion or the chin support portion for inflating and deflating.

Abstract: A traction device comprises a frame, a first bladder portion, a second bladder portion, a spacer, and a pump. The first bladder expands in an outward direction a distance greater than in a transverse direction. The second bladder expands in an angular direction. The second bladder is positioned generally below and to the side of the first bladder. Upon expanding in the outward direction, the first bladder bears against the back of the user's neck. Upon expanding in the transverse direction, the first bladder applies an angular traction to the cervical spine. Upon expanding in the angular direction, the second bladder bears angularly against the back of the user's upper thoracic region.

Abstract: A support apparatus configured to support a prone user in a position that is conducive to interacting with a media item that is also supported thereon. The apparatus includes an upper body support that is configured to support an upper body of a prone user. The upper body support includes a base support member that provides a cushioned surface. The upper body support includes a chest support member extending upwardly from the base support member. The apparatus includes a strip extending frontwardly from the upper body support. The strip is a sheet of flexible material is a width that is substantially equal to the base support member. The apparatus includes a media support member that is coupled to the strip, opposite of the upper body support. The media support member includes a media support structure that is configured to support a media item in a viewable position.

Abstract: A sensing device is configured for placing in an air cushion bed below air bladders thereof to detect an exact state of the bed in use, and includes a first and a second sheet connected together to define an air chamber therebetween. The air bladders and the air chamber are communicable with one another via inflation valves on the first sheet and are synchronously and identically inflated. First and second sensing elements are disposed outside and inside the air chamber, respectively. The first sensing element has deformation and acceleration sensors arranged thereon for monitoring how the bed reacts to a patient lying thereon and the manner in which the bed is being used. The second sensing element includes upper and lower conductive sensing sheets and an electrical connection state therebetween is used to detect whether the air bladders are sufficiently inflated. Thus, the air cushion bed is safer for use.