Abstract: An inflatable pad assembly includes a connecting unit for interconnecting pivotally and detachably first and second inflatable pads such that the second inflatable pad is operable so as to pivot relative to the first inflatable pad between a first position, where one of opposite first and second sides of the first inflatable pad abuts against one of opposite first and second sides of the second inflatable pad, and a second position, where the second inflatable pad is superposed on the first inflatable pad. A third inflatable pad is connected pivotally to the second inflatable pad, and is operable so as to pivot relative to the second inflatable pad between a third position, where the third inflatable pad is received fittingly in a notch in the first side of the second inflatable pad, and a fourth position, where the third inflatable pad is superposed on the second inflatable pad.

Abstract: An inflatable mattress for storage within and use in combination with a furniture member includes a main body portion having a lower surface supportable on a surface such as a floor and an upper surface. An extending end of the mattress includes an extension of the upper surface co-planar with the upper surface, and a support surface which contacts a mating support surface of the furniture member. At least one fluid inlet valve and at least one fluid discharge valve are distributed about the inflatable mattress. A plurality of attachment devices connected to the inflatable mattress are used to temporarily or permanently attach the inflatable mattress to the furniture member. The inflatable mattress is collapsible for storage within a furniture member interior envelope.

Abstract: The invention is a bladder formed of multiple layers of barrier film to provide multiple pressurized layers of cushioning fluid or gas when the bladder is filled. The sidewalls of the bladder can be constructed with an inverted seam construction to eliminate finishing steps in the manufacture of cushioning bladders and alternatively to provide a clean, seamless appearance along the side walls. The inverted seam can be formed by attaching the peripheral edges of inner barrier layers to the outer barrier layers adjacent a weld between inner barrier layers to provide an inside-out inverted seam appearance. An inverted seam can also be formed by providing separate sidewall elements attached to the barrier layers of the bladder to provide a seam displaced from the center of the sidewall.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a fluid pressurizable multiple chamber mattress wherein each chamber is capable of operably receiving and releasing a fluid, comprising a first covering sheet, at least two fabric layers positioned upon the inner surface of the first covering sheet, the inner surfaces of the fabric layers being linked via a plurality of threads, a second covering sheet, a first dielectric weld forming a first and a second fluid pressurizable chamber defined between the outer surfaces of the fabric layers and the inner surfaces of the first and second covering sheets, a second dielectric weld, forming a third fluid pressurizable chamber defined between the inner surfaces of the first and second covering sheets and the inner surfaces of the fabric layers; and at least one fluid valve carried by at least one covering sheet for permitting the pressurization and depressurization of at least one fluid pressurizable chamber.

Abstract: A multiple position air mattress system for achieving various support positions includes a first mattress, a second mattress, and a bellows unit attached to the second mattress. The bellows unit is extendable for either elevating the second mattress or providing a support for an individual. A pump unit is adapted to be fluidly connected to and for providing pressurized air to the first mattress, the second mattress and the bellows unit. The multiple position air mattress can assume a prone bed position with the mattresses longitudinally adjacent each other and the bellows unit deflated, a recessed lounge position with the mattresses longitudinally adjacent each other and the bellows unit inflated and atop the second mattress, an adjustable lounge position with the mattresses longitudinally adjacent each other and the bellows unit inflated under the second mattress, and a chair position with the first mattress under the second mattress, and the mattresses and bellows unit inflated.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling the flow of fluid for an inflatable mattress having multiple, non-interconnected inflatable chambers. Each inflatable chamber can be selectively inflated and deflated to vary the pressure exerted from the mattress surface to selected areas of a human body, thereby preventing the formation of decubitus ulcers.

Abstract: A patient support including a frame having a deck support and a step deck positioned on the deck support. The step deck has an upper deck, a lower deck, and a side wall, the upper deck being spaced apart from the lower deck to define a recess of the deck. A mattress section and a mattress section support are supported by the step deck.

Abstract: A patient transfer device includes a top sheet inclined in a head end portion such that a patient's torso is elevated with respect to the feet. The mattress may include relatively narrow chambers in an intermediate portion for increased strength and stability. The mattress may also include a leg separator in a foot end portion, preferably tapered and including one or more inflatable chambers. The mattress may also include a pump mounted directly to the mattress. The transfer device may include a torso and head support accessory having independently inflatable torso and head chambers and inlet and exhaust tubes connected to each chamber. A distribution manifold includes valves connected to each of the inlet and exhaust tubes for controlled inflation and deflation of the chambers. The device may include a control unit connected to the manifold and mountable to an intubation tube for actuation by a user's thumb.

Abstract: An inflatable bed includes an enclosure member defining a receiving space, an inner partition sheet disposed within the enclosure member and dividing the receiving space into first and second chambers, an air valve attached to the enclosure member and communicating fluidly with the first chamber, and a unidirectional air inlet unit attached to the inner partition sheet and communicating fluidly with the first and second chambers. Air from the first chamber enters the second chamber through the unidirectional air inlet unit.

Abstract: An inflatable mattress with an inflatable headboard and/or footboard. Inflatable side supports may also be included. The mattress is particularly suited for infants or toddlers in that the side and end supports prevent a child from rolling or sliding off the mattress.

Abstract: An inflatable device for people to sit, lie or sleep on is provided, which device allows water vapor produced by the person's perspiration or condensation to escape from the vicinity of his/her body, which device can be readily manufactured without undue amounts of human labor, which device is suitable for disposable use, and which device is of such a construction that in the event that there is a rupture or loss of pressure the entire device will not collapse.

Abstract: An inflatable cushion cell has first and second inflatable compartments. Each inflatable compartment is defined by at least one diagonal seal structure. In addition, each inflatable compartment also has at least one fluid opening. In one embodiment the diagonal seal structure is offset from opposite corners of the inflatable cushion cell. In one embodiment patient support system includes a plurality of inflatable such cushion cells are located within a frame. In one embodiment a pressure control system is used control the inflation of the first and second inflatable compartments. In one embodiment a method is used to move a patient in an inflatable patient support system.

Abstract: A bolster for resisting rolling of a person off of a mattress, comprising a lateral cushion adapted to be disposed proximate and parallel to an edge of the mattress, and a tensile portion having a means for attachment to said lateral cushion, providing a distributed tensile force to resist a laterally outward displacement of the lateral cushion, the tensile force being transmitted beneath the mattress having a force vector downward and inward. Both the lateral cushion and the mattress may be inflatable, and preferably a pair of lateral cushions, interconnected by a tensile sheet below the mattress, are provided.

Abstract: An air mattress includes a first inflatable compartment having a length and width, when inflated, sufficient to support a human body. The first compartment is composed of at least two layers of vinyl, one layer of vinyl forming the top of the compartment and the second forming the bottom. A second inflatable compartment extends generally the length and width of the first compartment and is attached to the first compartment through a perimeter seal that is recessed from the periphery of the air mattress. The second compartment is tufted and so contain a layer of resilient material.

Abstract: An inflatable product includes a pack having a first vent with a first valve, a second vent with a second valve, a third vent in communication with the ambient, a first chamber in communication with the first vent, a second chamber in communication with the second vent, and an air pump pumping air into and out of the pack through the third vent when activated in a first and second direction. A first switch structure is movable between first and second orientations. The first orientation opens the first valve and activates the air pump in the first direction to inflate the first chamber. The second orientation closes the first valve. A second switch structure is movable between third and fourth orientations. The third orientation opens the second valve and activates the air pump in the second direction to deflate the second chamber. The fourth orientation closes the second valve.

Abstract: A nest-like mattress is disclosed. The mattress comprises a multiple compartments and a nest-like fitting characterized in that the multiple inner compartments are soft, air-filled sac structure and are fitted within an individual cavity of the nest-like fitting, each air-filled inner compartment is provided with an independent nozzle, and the inner compartment has a pulling strap which allows mounting at corresponding cavity of the nest-like fitting, the nest-like fitting is provided with a plurality of cavities and each cavity allows an inner compartment and the air-filled inner compartments are located on the individual cavity, the lateral side opening of the fitting is provided with a covering cloth, the edge of the covering cloth and that of the fitting are mounted with zip or fastening/button member so as to close the side opening.

Abstract: An inflatable product includes a first chamber, a first mechanically-controlled valve, an air pump, a first switch and a switch circuit. The air pump inflates the first chamber through the first mechanically-controlled valve. The first switch activates the air pump and opens the first mechanically-controlled valve. The air pump is activated through the switch circuit by the first switch, wherein the switch circuit has a second switch turned on by the first switch when the first switch is turned on, and a relay activated to supply the air pump with power when the second switch is turned on.

Abstract: A mattress assembly is provided that includes an adjustable width.

Abstract: An alternating pad consisting of transverse inflatable cells (1 and 2) alternately inflated and deflated. An internal cell (5) is provided at the outermost edges of each transverse cell (1,2). The internal cell (5) is constantly inflated at a higher pressure than the traverse cells (1, 2). The internal cell (5) is at a lower height than the cells (1,2) and preferably of a chamfered shape to provide optimum pressure relief across the whole surface of the pad. The internal cell (5) provides stable patient exit, entry or transfer from a bed or seat.

Abstract: A double chambered transfer mattress is provided capable of partial deflation that that includes a top inflatable mattress and a bottom inflatable mattress that are separated by a common wall from one another. A selectable inlet/outlet valve is arranged for airflow communication between an interior chamber of the bottom inflatable mattress and a source of pressurized air. A one-way valve is positioned through the common wall so as to provide selective air flow communication between the top inflatable mattress and the bottom inflatable mattress so that when the inlet/outlet valve is opened, so as to deflate the bottom inflatable mattress, the one-way valve is actuated so as to prevent deflation of the top inflatable mattress.

Abstract: A patient support is provided comprising a frame including a deck support and a step deck positioned on the deck support. The step deck has an upper deck, a lower deck, and a side wall, the upper deck being spaced apart from the lower deck to define a recess of the deck. The step deck includes a first section and a second section configured to articulate relative to the first section.

Abstract: An air cushion with selectively deflated chambers has a base, multiple air pouches, multiple attachment devices, at least two air tubes, an air pump and a cover sheet. The air pouches are mounted on the base, and each air pouch has an inner space and multiple compression straps. The inner space is divided into multiple chambers that communicate with each other. Each compression strap keeps a selected chamber of the air pouches from inflating. The attachment devices are mounted on the base to attach the air pouches to the base. The at least two air tubes connect to the air pouches and communicates with the inner spaces of the air pouches. The air pump connects to and pumps air through the air tubes into the air pouches. Any one of the chambers can be kept from inflating if the chamber contacts injured skin of a patient.

Abstract: A conventional bedding mattress is constructed in a manner that permits light to permeate upwardly throughout the bedding components so as to illuminate the entire bed structure when a light source is placed below the mattress proper. The illuminating feature of the bed is accomplished by forming a bed mattress of a spring core section, a translucent netting layer disposed over the spring core, a unique foam padding that freely lays on top of the netting layer, and a material cover that envelopes the core and padding. The cover is provided with a clear plastic bottom portion sewn into the cover. The padding layer is translucent and this same padding is used as a padding layer within the cover. Light freely passes through the plastic of the cover, through the spring cores, then passing through the padding layer and into the cover, thereby illuminating the mattress upon provision of an underlying light source.

Abstract: A width-adjustable alternating air inflation mattress has a body. At least one lateral side of the body is added with tubular air cells for increasing the width of the bed body. The inflation of the tubular air cell is controlled by air valves. When the tubular air cells are inflated, the width thereof is increased. By above mentioned alternating air inflation mattress, in normal use, the alternating air inflation mattress has a sufficient wide and thus the patient can lie upon the bed comfortably. If it is desired to pass the alternating air inflation mattress through the door, it only needs to evacuate airs in tubular air cells at two sides of the bed to reduce the width of the bed. Other than the inflation of the tubular air cells being controllable, if the patent needs a first aid, the air in the tubular air cell can be evacuated out rapidly for executing CPR.

Abstract: An inflatable product that includes a chamber and an electric air pump for inflating the chamber. The air pump has an air intake and an air outlet. The air intake is connected to the outside of the chamber and the air outlet is connected to the inside of the chamber when the air pump is moved to a first position. The air intake is connected to the inside of the chamber and the air outlet is connected to the outside of the chamber when the air pump is moved to a second position.

Abstract: An air mattress includes a first inflatable compartment having a length and width, when inflated, sufficient to support a human body. The first compartment having a top, a bottom, and sides and is composed of at least two layers of vinyl, one layer of vinyl forming the top of the compartment and the second forming the bottom. A second inflatable compartment is disposed on the top of the first inflatable compartment and is secured to the first compartment along a portion of the first inflatable compartment. The second compartment extends generally the length and width of the top of the first compartment and is of a size, when inflated, sufficient to support a human body. The second compartment is composed of at least two layers of vinyl distinct from the two layers of vinyl forming the first compartment. The second compartment is inflatable to give the top of the air mattress a soft, pillow-like appearance and feel.

Abstract: An inflatable bed unit includes an inflatable primary bed that has a main part, a head part connected to and in fluid communication with the main part and pivotable relative to the main part, a pillow part connected to the head part such that the head part is raised by the pillow part and is pivoted relative to the main part when the pillow part expands upon injection of air therein, and a check valve interconnecting the pillow part and the head part and defining a valve opening that is opened to permit air flow from the pillow part to the head part when the pressure in the pillow part is greater than that in the head part, and that is closed to prevent air flow from the head part to the pillow part when the pressure in the head part is greater than that in the pillow part.

Abstract: A medical cushion (1), in particular an anti-decubitus cushion, is in particular multicellular and is distinguished in that the cushion is equipped, at least in the area where skin contact (6) occurs, with an active membrane (3) based on a skin-compatible matrix (4) into which a molecular sieve is mixed. This molecular sieve is charged with at least one active substance (Z, Z1, Z2), and the molecular sieve/active substance adduct (5) releases the active substance when the active membrane comes into skin contact (6) in conjunction with the transpiration of the skin.

Abstract: An air mattress apparatus includes a first mattress section which contains a number of first flotation-bottle-reception chambers which are separated from each other by first stitches. First mattress section closure means enable access to inside the first flotation-bottle-reception chambers. First flotation bottles are received in the first flotation-bottle-reception chambers through the first mattress section closure means. A second mattress section is connected to the first mattress section. The second mattress section contains a number of second flotation-bottle-reception chambers which are separated from each other by second stitches. Second mattress section closure means enable access to inside the second flotation-bottle-reception chambers. Second flotation bottles are received in the second flotation-bottle-reception chambers through the second mattress section closure means. The air mattress apparatus can be used as a floating raft on water or as an air mattress on land.

Abstract: An inflatable bed designed for pets is described which bed comprises at least one, preferably at least two, separately inflatable members wherein said member or members is/are arranged so that when inflated the bed forms a concavity at the center at least when occupied by an animal and wherein said center may optionally contain a drainage hole extending through the body of the bed.

Abstract: The present invention is related to inflatable devices, and, more specifically, to inflatable devices in combination with rigid surfaces and a method for deflating an inflatable device. According to one embodiment of the present invention an inflatable device is provided. The inflatable device includes a substantially fluid impermeable bladder and an outlet in the bladder. The inflatable device also includes a first substantially rigid surface in contact with a first surface of the fluid impermeable bladder and a second substantially rigid surface in contact with the first surface of the fluid impermeable bladder. In this embodiment, the first and second substantially rigid surfaces collectively are in contact with more than half of the first surface of the fluid impermeable barrier. According to another embodiment of the present invention, a method of deflating an inflatable device is provided.

Abstract: A pregnancy air mattress/raft is inflatable which is useful for floating in water or sunning on the beach. The air mattress is inflatable and deflatable and is adjusted by adjusting air pressure. The mattress has a rectangular cavity reaching through the mattress, allowing the pregnant torso to bathe in the water when used as a raft. The cavity is elongated to receive the breasts of the user in a prone position. Removably attached side bolsters are mounted on each side of the rectangular cavity by engaging hook and loop material (Velcro) strips and may be adjusted in air pressure for needed support throughout the pregnancy. The side bolsters may be totally removed during the latter stages of pregnancy. An elongated, face-receiving cavity is provided having an air tunnel leading to the front of the air mattress. An ankle bolster is provided useful as an additional pillow.

Abstract: An improved bedding for livestock of this invention provides a bed strip for livestock having at least two elastomeric belts bonded together, one on top of the other, to form at least one bed with at least two chambers, front and rear, expandable under fluid pressure, that, once properly filled with a working volume of fluid, will each attain a convex pillow-like shape. The fluid volume in the chambers is such that when an animal steps on the rear chamber of the bed the top belt makes contact with the bottom belt to provide a stable base for the animal's foot, yet, when the animal drops to its knees on the front chamber of the bed, during the process of lying down or rising to standing, the knees are supported by a fluid cushion between the top and bottom belts.

Abstract: An alternating pressure pad comprises at least two sets of inflatable cells, an air supply line to each set, a pump to circulate pressurized air through a circuit including the sets of cells and to return air from the cells to the pump, valve means for alternately causing inflation and deflation of each set, a sensor pad in the circuit through which pressurized air is passed and detecting means for detecting a reduction in air flow through the sensor pad to a level below a predetermined level and for increasing air pressure in the sets of cells to restore the air flow to a level above the predetermined level.

Abstract: The invention modulates the air volume in foam cores of cushioning support devices and any other support apparatus using foam or similar materials. The foam core can be incrementally modulated to realize an infinite number of comfort levels as to softness and support firmness. The core consists of self-inflating open-cell flexible polyurethane foam and is completely sealed within an enclosure fitted over it, with one or more valves installed in the side walls which communicate with the outside air. Through the valves air is selectively withdrawn from the foam core, allowing the foam's density to increase. The invention uses relatively inexpensive foam, but through air volume modulation achieves a tactile feel of supreme softness for the user, without giving up the necessary firmness to support the body, as happens with very soft foam (bottoming-out or hammock-effect). When air is extracted from a self-inflating foam core, the surface of the core will soften uniformly while maintaining its support firmness.

Abstract: A surface pad system for a surgical table includes a cover defining an interior region and including an upwardly-facing surface configured to be positioned beneath a patient. The surface pad system also includes a pad core received in the interior region of the cover to support the patient.

Abstract: An alternating pressure support surface for use by patients requiring bed rest. The air pressure control system used by the alternating pressure surface dynamically controls air pressure in multiple inflatable compartments and further controls the cross over pressure as sets of inflatable compartments are simultaneously being inflated and deflated. A pressure transducer provides feedback which is used to dynamically adjust the output pressure produced by a pump to prevent over inflation or under inflation and ensure that cross over air pressure is properly maintained to prevent under inflation which results in bottoming out.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to diminish the material's creep problem found in inflatable bladders. This is accomplished by positioning an anti-creep zone within a bladder. The anti-creep zone is separated from the remainder of the bladder by a fluid barrier. The fluid barrier can have various embodiments that prevent and/or allow predetermined amounts of fluid into the anti-creep zone.

Abstract: A swimming pool mattress, for floatably supporting a user on a water surface includes a plurality of floatable mattress members, each having two engaging end portions and a mattress surface extending between the two engaging end portions, and at least two spacedly apart frame holders respectively engaging the two engaging end portions of each of the mattress members in a detachably connecting manner. Therefore, the mattress members are retained between the two frame holders to align the mattress surfaces of the mattress members to form a floating platform for supporting the user to rest thereon and to float on the water surface.

Abstract: A multiple position air mattress system for achieving various support positions includes a first mattress, a second mattress, and a bellows unit attached to the second mattress. The bellows unit is extendable for either elevating the second mattress or providing a support for an individual. A pump unit is adapted to be fluidly connected to and for providing pressurized air to the first mattress, the second mattress and the bellows unit. The multiple position air mattress can assume a prone bed position with the mattresses longitudinally adjacent each other and the bellows unit deflated, a recessed lounge position with the mattresses longitudinally adjacent each other and the bellows unit inflated and atop the second mattress, an adjustable lounge position with the mattresses longitudinally adjacent each other and the bellows unit inflated under the second mattress, and a chair position with the first mattress under the second mattress, and the mattresses and bellows unit inflated.

Abstract: An overlay mattress has a plurality of internal elevating means, such as inflatable bladders, for raising selected portions of the mattress to achieve a wide range of patient positions. A fluid such as air may be supplied from a conventional surgical room air supply, a compressed canister, or a compressor to inflate the bladders. A fluid distribution system controls the flow of fluid to desired bladders. The overlay mattress may be used in conjunction with conventional surgical tables and mattresses. A thermal control means is also included in the overlay mattress to regulate a patient's body temperature. A pressure shifting means is also included to reduce the risk of bedsore formation.

Abstract: An incline-adjustable air mattress for elevating a user's head and legs relative to the user's torso. The incline-adjustable air mattress includes a base section having top, bottom and perimeter walls, and also having air valve members being disposed in the perimeter wall, and further having an air chamber disposed between the top, bottom, and perimeter walls; and also includes intermediate sections being disposed upon and connected to the base section; and further includes upper sections being disposed upon and connected to the intermediate sections.

Abstract: A top vinyl layer, a bottom vinyl later and side vinyl layer are all heat welded together along peripheral edges. A heated blanket has a vinyl strip attached to its peripheral edges and such vinyl strip is heat welded to the top vinyl layer.

Abstract: A mattress for a bed having a frame for supporting the mattress and side rails, includes a non-puncture resistant cover with an interior surface, and a core disposed adjacent the interior surface. The core includes a body defining a plurality of mounting locations, and further includes a plurality of self sealing gas containers that are respectively disposed within the plurality of mounting locations. Accordingly, the overall height of the mattress may be used by the gas containers since a puncture resistant foam layer is not necessary.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a stand alone integrated mattress. The system has a self-contained mattress unit, at least one inflatable bladder, at least one fluid source, at least one dispersion unit and at least one control unit. The self-contained mattress unit has at least a head section and a foot section, and is capable of converting from a horizontal position or an inclined position to a chair-like conformation. There is at least one inflatable bladder in each section of the self-contained mattress unit. There is also at least fluid source. In addition there is at least one dispersion unit in each section and each dispersion unit provides a fluid, obtained from the fluid source, to a conduit which directs the fluid into the inflatable bladder positioned in the section of the dispersion unit. The control system is positioned in one of the sections and interconnected to each dispersion unit to control the dispersion of the fluid to the inflatable bladders in each section.

Abstract: An alternating pressure support surface for use by patients requiring bed rest. The air pressure control system used by the alternating pressure surface dynamically controls air pressure in multiple inflatable compartments and further controls the cross over pressure as sets of inflatable compartments are simultaneously being inflated and deflated. A pressure transducer provides feedback which is used to dynamically adjust the output pressure produced by a pump to prevent over inflation or under inflation and ensure that cross over air pressure is properly maintained to prevent under inflation which results in bottoming out.

Abstract: A width-adjustable alternating air inflation mattress has a body. At least one lateral side of the body is added with tubular air cells for increasing the width of the bed body. The inflation of the tubular air cell is controlled by air valves. When the tubular air cells are inflated, the width thereof is increased. By above mentioned alternating air inflation mattress, in normal use, the alternating air inflation mattress has a sufficient wide and thus the patient can lie upon the bed comfortably. If it is desired to pass the alternating air inflation mattress through the door, it only needs to evacuate airs in tubular air cells at two sides of the bed to reduce the width of the bed. Other than the inflation of the tubular air cells being controllable, if the patent needs a first aid, the air in the tubular air cell can be evacuated out rapidly for executing CPR.

Abstract: A patient support apparatus including a barrier coupled to a frame. The barrier includes an interior region containing a fluid supply. A related method is provided for converting a patient support apparatus to include a fluid filled patient support surface.

Abstract: The contour and topography adjusting mattress distributes the weight equally over the entire contact surface, thus prevents morning sore spot formation and prevents decubitus wound formation in the prolonged bed-ridden patients. The massaging action of the mattress relieves muscular pain, relaxes the body, increases the blood circulation, also it further prevents sore spot and decubitus wound formation in the bed-ridden patients. It can be used in hospitals or at home.

Abstract: A cushioning device for a body support such as a mattress, seat, sofa, or the like where support is obtained from a fluid. The cushioning device is self-inflating, self-adjusting, and provides a low interface pressure under the entire contact surface of a patient. Shear force scraping damage is prevented by a sleeve apparatus. A support system apparatus provides separately adjustable pressure support zones. For physical therapy, an alternating pressure system provides alternating lifting and lowering pressure zones under a patient.