Abstract: A bed comprises a mattress supported on a support surface. The mattress has first and second inflatable cells for supporting a patient.

Abstract: A multiple chamber self-inflating pad having a fluid impervious first chamber defined by a first flexible panel and an intermediate panel in which a first resilient member is disposed and to which the resilient member is bonded. An orifice is provided to control inflation or deflation of the first chamber. A second flexible panel is selectively bonded to the intermediate flexible panel preferably to form a gap or pocket into which a second resilient member may be removably disposed. Preferably, the first resilient member is an open cell foam while the second is constructed from closed cell foam. Alternative embodiments include the creation of a fluid impervious second chamber either fluidly linked to the first chamber or to the environment, alternative resilient materials, inclusion of radiant barriers, and the like.

Abstract: Air bed assembly having a knockdown foundation made up of preassembled boxes which are used as shipping containers for the other elements of the bed, mattresses having interposed sets of isolated chambers for improved pressure distribution, contoured foam rails surrounding the mattresses and a visco-elastic foam pad overlying them, a cover with a removable pillow top enclosing the mattresses and foam, a blower assembly mounted inside one of the rails with control valves for supplying air to and removing air from the mattresses, and individual controls for returning the pressure in the mattresses to a desired level upon command and for preventing a drop in mattress pressure as the blower is turned on to increase that pressure.

Abstract: An inflatable mattress topper including an inflatable chamber which may be formed out of polyvinyl chloride with or without lamination or flocking. The inflatable chamber is designed to rest upon a support system, namely a bed without additional securing devices or may be integrated within a conventional mattress. The inflatable chamber being inflated by air to an adjustable level to provide the desired support for its user through plastic tubing connected between a pump and an air inlet sealed to the polyvinyl chloride chamber. The inflatable mattress topper is easily set-up for continual use or removed for occasional use.

Abstract: An inflatable bed has a bottom surface that is disposed on a support surface and that is formed with a concave air bag. When a person moves onto a top surface of the bed, air is ejected from the air bag so that the bed acts as a suction cup, thereby fixing the bed relative to the support surface.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an inflatable device or a body support device, and, specifically, to an inflatable device including two or more fluid chambers. One embodiment of the device includes a first fluid chamber comprising a first outlet, and a second fluid chamber comprising an inlet, wherein the second fluid chamber is fluidly connected to the first fluid chamber by a one way valve arranged to allow fluid to pass from the second fluid chamber to the first fluid chamber. The invention is also directed to a method of providing adjustable support.

Abstract: Supporting device, notably mattress, mattress support or supporting device for seats, comprising several elements comprising flexible fluid-holding chambers aligned vertically and assembled in a network so as to form a structure enabling a body to rest. The pressure in each fluid-holding chamber is transmitted insider first conduits (4) coming out of said chamber. The first conduits communicate this pressure to the fluid-holding chambers of the neighboring elements.

Abstract: A valve for use with an inflatable cushion having individual inflation zones including a slide housing positioned between two outer casing halves. Each casing half has a plurality of nipple connector seats. Each nipple connector seat has at least one external detent. The slide housing has a series of nipple connectors along its length that are inserted into air conduits in the peripheral edge of the cushion, which, in turn, are connected to the individual inflation zones. Each nipple connector has at least one retainer groove in the surface. The casing half detents engage the cushion edge and the retainer grooves to retain the nipple in the air conduits. There is a movable slide inside the slide seat bore. The slide has a longitudinal inner bore and a number of openings along its length that communicate with the inner bore.

Abstract: An inflatable support system having an upper chamber attached to a lower chamber and in fluid communication therewith which may be inflated with a single pump and deflated with a first valve, the upper chamber having a pillow top appearance when inflated.

Abstract: An improved vehicle seat assembly for mounting on the frame of a vehicle driver's seat including a polymer support plate attached to the frame, a polyurethane foam base on the support, an inflatable air cell cushion on the base and an elastic cover. The inflatable air cell cushion includes individual inflation zones each comprised of individual interconnected inflation cells. The zones are normally isolated from each other. A center zone having a preset inflation pressure is positioned under the ischial area of the driver. Front, back and side bolster zones provide front-to-back and side-to-side support. The individual air cells of the center zone are interconnected by a serpentine airflow path of reduced area to enhance the vibration and shock absorption characteristics of the zone.

Abstract: This invention is an inflatable product that includes a plurality of chambers at least two of which are adjoining, with at least one unidirectional valve connecting any pair of adjoining chambers, an inlet port, and an exhaust port.

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: A support surface 10 includes a series of inflatable cells 30, 40 inflated alternately by a compressor 11. The cells 30, 40 are exhausted via an exhaust port 50 having a restrictor 60 of known diameter. A pressure transducer 70 measures the cell 30, 40 pressure. Some of the cells 30, 40 during their deflating/inflating cycle are exhausted through the exhaust port 50 and the cell pressure decay over a time is monitored. A microprocessor calculates the mathematical function related to the cell pressure decay with time, compares the value with compiled data and adjusts the output of the compressor accordingly. The sequence of exhausting via port 50 is repeated at every inflation/deflation cycle and the pressure decay monitored and compared with the known data and the compressor output adjusted automatically to provide a new operating pressure. Therefore, any changes in the person's position i.e.

Abstract: An inflatable cushion is disclosed, having features that allow deflation of the cushion to be controlled. The cushion includes an inflatable bladder having a support therein and a valved exhaust tube in fluid communication therewith. An indicator coupled to the exhaust tube indicates when fluid is exiting the exhaust tube. When sat upon, the cushion deflates only by a preselected amount. This allows the cushion to be consistently and easily deflated to a predetermined inflation height.

Abstract: A decubitus mattress includes an inflatable cell surrounded by foam with a built-in low-voltage (AC) air pump assembly for controlling the air cell's inflation. In some embodiments, a mattress includes a plurality of inflatable cells, one or more of which (particularly at the foot end of the mattress) can be selectively deflated with valves that are located along the side of the mattress, in corresponding positions.

Abstract: A cushion for seats, wheelchairs, mattresses, etc. is disclosed. The cushion includes fluid-filled cells. Each cell is in fluid communication with adjacent cells via conduits. Constrictures such as check-valves and duckbill valves may be located inside the conduits to restrict or otherwise regulate fluid flow into or out of a particular cell. A control pin may be used to selectively enable or disable said constrictures. In this way, the cushion may be customized on a cell-by-cell basis, providing a cushion that can be tailored to the individual needs of the patient.

Abstract: A chair bed including a bedframe and a mattress positioned on the bedframe is provided. The bedframe is configured to move between a substantially flat bed position and a chair position. The mattress includes an inflatable treatment apparatus such as a pulmonary rotational therapy device, a pulsation therapy device, or a decubitus ulcer treatment device.

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: A patient supporting surface for use with a conventional operating room table having at least one pad for supporting a patient, wherein the pad has a chamber for containing a quantity of fluid. The chamber is a dual-layer, urethane envelope having an upper and lower portion. The fluid contained within the chamber is a deformable and pressure compensating, radiolucent fluid. The chamber and the fluid are cooperatively adapted to maintain the patient in a fixed position while substantially minimizing the interface pressure and shear force between the pad and the patient. A cover sheet may be removably attachable about the fluid-filled chambers and comprises an entry for selective access to the fluid-filled chambers.

Abstract: An inflatable bed includes an inflatable mattress that is attached to the top surface of an inflatable air box spring. An inflatable, stabilizing tube is attached to the bottom of the air box spring to provide additional stability and height by increasing the footprint of the inflatable bed. The interiors of the inflatable mattress and air box spring contain a plurality of I-beam structures arranged longitudinally to provide further support and stability. Alternatively, the inflatable mattress is separate and detachable and can be fastened to the top surface of the air box spring. An additional stabilizing tube is attached to the periphery of the top surface of the air box spring to cradle and support the detachable inflatable mattress.

Abstract: A hospital bed adapted for use with an open geometry imaging system, such as a C-arm imager, is provided. The hospital bed includes a mobile base, a frame, a bed top, and a patient support. At least one portion of the bed top and patient support are substantially radiotransparent. The radiotransparent portions are capable of axial displacement along the lengthwise axis of the bed, thereby allowing the use of an imager on a patient in the bed without interference from the base. The axial displacement is preferably indexed to at least one predetermined stop position. One or more independent lateral sections can be selectively moved away from the radiotransparent portion, allowing for a reduction in the overall width of the bed. A patient transport system is also provided, in which the bed top and attached patient support can be used as a portable support, such as a stretcher, and may be secured to the base for subsequent transport and/or imaging when appropriate.

Abstract: A mattress assembly including an inflatable central support portion and a side bolster. A check valve is configured to prevent fluid flow from at least a portion of the side bolster to the central support portion.

Abstract: An fluid channeling system that comprises a series of elongated chambers having a rectangular cross section. Each of these chambers is disposed adjacent to the other and extends parallel to the other in either a single layer configuration or a two layer configuration. There is at least one fluid such as air, helium, or an air helium combination disposed within these chambers. The fluid enters these chambers through at least one fluid intake valve which is in fluid communication with these chambers. Helium has particular properties that make it conducive for this type of an application. Helium is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, in addition, Helium can diffuse through many materials commonly used in laboratories such as rubber and PVC. Therefore, if the present invention uses Helium, the materials used in creating this device must reflect these properties.

Abstract: A mattress having a head end and a foot end includes a first support section configured to support an occupant's feet, legs, and seat, and a second support section located adjacent the head end of the mattress to support an occupant's back and head. A portion of the head support section is movable toward the head end of the mattress as the second support section is moved to an elevated position relative to the first support section.

Abstract: A valve for use with an inflatable cushion having individual inflation zones including a casing with an internal bore and a plurality of openings along the length of the casing connected to the individual inflation zones by air conduits and a movable slide within the casing bore. The slide has a number of openings along the its length that communicate with an inner bore. The valve is opened by aligning the slide openings with the casing openings to allow the inflation zones to communicate through the valve slide bore and is closed by moving the slide openings out of alignment with the casing openings to seal off the inflation zones.

Abstract: A mattress assembly for supporting a patient includes a body support portion having a head end, a foot end, and a knee support portion. The body support portion has a first air zone extending from the head end to the knee support portion and a second air zone extending from the knee support portion to the foot end. The mattress assembly also includes a control module configured to supply air to the first and second air zones to maintain the first air zone at a substantially constant first pressure and to maintain the second air zone at a substantially constant second pressure. The second pressure is less than the first pressure to provide reduced pressure on a patient's calves and feet located on the second air zone.

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 and sonic massaging apparatus for providing an improved massaging effect with opposing lower air nodes beneath the upper air nodes in order to provide the user with greater displacement when patterned inflation and deflation of the device occurs. The apparatus includes an air device and a sonic device which is located underneath the air device. The air and sonic massaging apparatus inhibits turning forces and sideway motions, and keeps the motion more linear and at a higher consistent force. The apparatus has separate air flow circuits that provide alternating or conjoined patterns of inflation and deflation on a single device. The sonic device includes a sonic transducer that creates acoustic waves generated by a rigid transmission plate through movement by the translation of significant solid mass. The sonic device provides high magnitudes of acoustic energy to the directly coupled air device or directly coupled to the user's body air cavity.

Abstract: An air mattress includes a first through a fourth sheets (6, 7, 8, and 9), respectively, which are bonded together along the peripheries thereof and at a multiplicity of bonding spots, creating a triple-layer air cell structure consisting of a first, a second, and a third air cells (13, 15, and 17), respectively. A multiplicity of first bonding spots (10) bonding the first and second sheets together are spaced apart at regular intervals along longitudinal and transverse lines such that four neighboring spots occupy four corners of a tetragon. On the other hand, a multiplicity of second bonding spots (14) bonding the second and the third sheets together are arranged at positions which correspond to the centers of the tetragons. The third air cell has the same structure as the first air cell. These air cells are inflated such that the third air cell maintains high a pressure, while the first and second air cells maintain a low pressure. The low pressure air mattress may effectively prevent bedsores.

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: An apparatus for regulating a temperature of a body support structure including at least one bladder. A temperature modulator is coupled to the at least one bladder for varying the temperature of fluid within the bladder.

Abstract: A cushion for seats, wheelchairs, mattresses, etc. is disclosed. The cushion includes fluid-filled cells. Each cell is in fluid communication with adjacent cells via conduits. Constrictures such as valves or constrictor clips may be applied to the conduits to restrict or otherwise regulate fluid flow into or out of a particular cell. In this way, the cushion may be customized on a cell-by-cell basis, providing a cushion that can be tailored to the individual needs of the patient.

Abstract: An air mattress is formed with a deep pocket adjacent one end portion for storing and concealing various items such as glasses, wallets, flashlights and the like. An inflatable pillow or similar cover member is tethered at one end to the mattress with a flexible hinge and connected to the mattress at its other end with a releasable connection which positions and holds the pillow over the storage pocket so as to cover and conceal the storage pocket.

Abstract: A configurable, adjustable inflatable device including one or more inflatable bladders and a shape-defining membrane that combines with the inflatable bladders such that an overall shape of the configurable inflatable device is at least partially controlled by the shape-defining membrane, and wherein the overall shape of the configurable inflatable device is substantially different from an inflated shape of inflatable bladders alone. The configurable adjustable inflatable device may include a covering layer that may partially or completely surround the inflatable bladders and may attach to the membrane or the inflatable bladders. The level of inflation of the inflatable bladders may also be controlled, further adding to the adjustability of the inflatable device.

Abstract: A mattress assembly for supporting a patient includes a body support portion having a head end, a foot end, and a knee support portion. The body support portion has a first air zone extending from the head end to the knee support portion and a second air zone extending from the knee support portion to the foot end. The mattress assembly also includes a control module configured to supply air to the first and second air zones to maintain the first air zone at a substantially constant first pressure and to maintain the second air zone at a substantially constant second pressure. The second pressure is less than the first pressure to provide reduced pressure on a patient's calves and feet located on the second air zone.

Abstract: An adjustable supporting device for a premature infant, comprising an inflatable base (1) consisting of two superimposed air and gas impermeable layers (5, 6), divided into at least two flat sections (2, 3), and running along the perephery of the base an inflatable wall (4), optionally also divided into two sections, wherein all base sections (2, 3) and wall (4) or wall sections are inflatable and pressure-adjustable independent of one another.

Abstract: A mattress is provided for use with a bed deck having a recess. The mattress includes a mattress section configured to define a patient rest surface and a mattress section support configured to support the mattress section.

Abstract: An air bed having a pump and a relief valve is operably connected with a control box. The control box is capable of being programmed or receiving scripted information from a media file such that timed pressure changes may be made in the air bed by operation of the pump and the relief valve. These changes are synchronized with a message being played by a media player. Thus the air bed interacts with a person lying on the bed. This interaction is used, preferably in a sales setting, to convey information to the person about the operation and features of the air bed.

Abstract: A moisture drying mattress comprises a cover that encloses an air cell mattress and a plurality of air channel mats. The cover has a top portion that is vapor permeable and liquid impermeable. The air cell mattress has a plurality of apertures between the air cells. The plurality of air channel mats have a base and are positioned beneath the air cell mattress and within pockets located in the interior of the cover on a bottom portion of the cover. The air channel mats have a plurality of projections extending upwardly from the base that support the air cell mattress in a spaced relation from the air channel mat base. The air channel mats communicate with an air pump that is selectively controlled by a controller to selectively supply a flow of air to any of the air channel mats.

Abstract: A mattress system offering combinations of comfort and support comprising at least two modules, positioned side-by-side along their longest dimension to define at least two recumbent user areas the modules comprising depressions accomodating removable inserts of differing firmness. The mattress system provides an immense array of combinations of firmness and support, allowing each user to adjust, to a very wide degree, the comfort, firmness and support beneath their upper body, lumbar area, and lower body. The adaptable structure of the mattress system also allows the individual user to customize his/her side of the bed and easily change his/her side of the bed as his/her preferences change. Additionally, the construction increases the longevity of the bed, because components may be replaced one at a time as deemed necessary.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fluid filled support comprising a plurality of chambers in fluid communication with each other at least one fluid conduit interconnecting at least two of the plurality of chambers together. There is also at least one connection head coupled to the at least one fluid conduit. There is also at least one portable pump which is connectable to the connection head. This portable pump is for inserting additional fluid into the fluid conduit wherein the fluid then flows into the plurality of chambers. There is also a portable pressure relief device which is connectable to the connection head. This device comprises a pressure gauge for determining a pressure of fluid inside the fluid filled support. The pressure gauge also includes an adjustable pressure relief valve which is adjustable to relieve fluid from the support wherein the at least one portable pump and the at least one portable pressure relief device are used to adjust pressure in the system.

Abstract: A multi-chamber airbed reduces the effect of weight movement by one or more persons sleeping or sitting on the airbed. In the multi-chambered airbed of the present invention, there are at least two chambers inside the airbed, each chamber having its own air valve and representing its own portion of the airbed. The chambers are completely sealed off from each other by a barrier or septum within the airbed. Thus, when one person shifts his or her weight on the portion of the airbed over one chamber, air does not flow to the other chamber or portion of the airbed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a Swift Connection Joint Between Airbags. This invention includes a device named swift connection joint, instead of the air-pipes that are used in conventional air mattresses. The swift connection joint consists of first main unit and second main unit to be adhered to two airbags, respectively, as well as a locking part for installation of both main units. With the above-mentioned components, the swift connection joint can be assembled/disassembled easily, and does not fall apart. Therefore, the present invention is an ideal device for transmission of air into air mattress.

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 mattress assembly including an inflatable central support portion and a side bolster. A check valve is configured to prevent fluid flow from at least a portion of the side bolster to the central support portion.

Abstract: An inflatable device having a safety system provided by having at least two separate and distinct independently inflatable bladders contained within the outer shell of the device. Each of the bladders is designed when fully inflated to fully inflate the shell, but during use one of the bladders is not fully inflated and has a projected area of no greater than 50% of the projected area of the inflated shell.

Abstract: An fluid channeling system that comprises a series of elongated chambers having a rectangular cross section. Each of these chambers is disposed adjacent to the other and extends parallel to the other in either a single layer configuration or a two layer configuration. There is at least one fluid such as air, helium, or an air helium combination disposed within these chambers. The fluid enters these chambers through at least one fluid intake valve which is in fluid communication with these chambers. Helium has particular properties that make it conducive for this type of an application. Helium is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, in addition, Helium can diffuse through many materials commonly used in laboratories such as rubber and PVC. Therefore, if the present invention uses Helium, the materials used in creating this device must reflect these properties.

Abstract: A bed and mattress structure includes an articulating frame having longitudinally spaced head, seat, thigh, and foot sections. The head, thigh and foot sections are movable relative to each other and relative to the seat section. A deck on the frame supports a user. A mattress is interposed between the deck and the user. The mattress includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart, transversely extending air bladders corresponding respectively to the frame sections. A power driver tilts the frame sections to desired tilted positions. An air supply fills each bladder to desired air pressures to support the user. A drive controller controls the power drive for tilting the frame sections to various desired positions. An air supply controller controls the air supply for filling the air bladders to desired air pressures. A hand held controller includes a key pad cooperating with a programmable device to provide signals through a cord in response to inputs from the user.

Abstract: A variable height, portable, inflatable foot and leg elevator comprises a plurality of adjacent prismatoid chambers, cooperating to form one inflatable prismatoid-shaped resilient body adapted to support the legs and feet of a user one way valve means providing for gas transfer between said plurality of prismatoid chambers, allowing the preplanned sequential inflation of selected prismatoid chambers such that the height of said variable height portable inflatable foot and leg elevator, can be increased upon the transfer of gas through one way valve means from one chamber, to an adjacent chamber, when the gas pressure in one chamber reaches a preplanned value, sufficient to cause the opening of the way valve means; inflating means attached to a first prismatoid chamber; deflating means permanently attached to said plurality of prismatoid chambers, permitting the deflation of said chambers, to thereby decrease the height of said foot and leg elevator; power means with control means for said inflating means, and

Abstract: A mattress support element comprises a fluid filled bladder and a fluid container substantially surrounded by the bladder. The fluid container is in constant fluid communication with ambient fluid outside the bladder. The fluid container is configured to deform from its original shape when an external force is applied to the bladder and to reform to its original shape upon removal of the external force from the bladder.