초록 ▼

A controllably inflatable cushion that includes a number of independently inflatable rows or zones of cells. Each row or zone is connected to the pressure port of a corresponding three-way valve, and the intake ports of the valves are connected to a pump. The pump and valves are controlled by a micr

A controllably inflatable cushion that includes a number of independently inflatable rows or zones of cells. Each row or zone is connected to the pressure port of a corresponding three-way valve, and the intake ports of the valves are connected to a pump. The pump and valves are controlled by a microprocessor control means which receives input from a pressure sensor and input switches. The input switches allow the user to set desired inflation sequences of the rows or zones and pressures at which the cushion is to be inflated. The pressure sensor provides feedback signals to control inflation pressure. The microprocessor also actuates light-emitting diodes or other indicator means to let the user know when the device is on, when the pump or any valve is actuated, or when the battery in the power supply is low. The exhaust ports of the valves are advantageously connected to an aeration manifold formed of perforated tubing and located in the cushion which supplies fresh air to spaces between the cells in order to make the cushion more comfortable and to reduce heat, friction and possibility of blister or decubitus ulcer development.

대표청구항 ▼

A controllably inflatable device, comprising: A. a cushion which includes: (i) a plurality of zones of independently inflatable cells; (ii) a web connected to, supporting and sealing each of the cells; (iii) for each zone of cells, a passageway in the web which communicates with each cell in the zon

A controllably inflatable device, comprising: A. a cushion which includes: (i) a plurality of zones of independently inflatable cells; (ii) a web connected to, supporting and sealing each of the cells; (iii) for each zone of cells, a passageway in the web which communicates with each cell in the zone to inflate the cells in the zone; and (iv) an aeration manifold attached to the web comprising a plurality of tubular aeration ducts, each duct located between cells, closed at one end and penetrated by a plurality of holes; and a common tubular duct connected to and communicating with the open end of each aeration duct; B. a plurality of valves, each valve corresponding to at least one zone of cells and including: (i) an intake port for receiving pressurized air from a pump; (ii) a pressure port for supplying pressurized air to the valve\s corresponding zone of cells; (iii) an exhaust port for supplying exhaust air to the aeration manifold; (iv) gate means for controlling opening and closure of each of the ports; and (v) actuation means connected to the gate means for actuating the gate means; C. a pump for supplying pressurized air to the valves; D. a plurality of tubular pressurization conduits, each connecting a pressure port of a valve to the valve\s corresponding cell zone passageway; E. at least one tubular intake conduit connecting the pump to the intake ports of the valves; F. at least one tubular exhaust conduit connecting the exhaust ports of the valves to the common duct of the aeration manifold; G. microprocessor means electrically connected to the actuation means of each valve and to the pump for controlling operation of each valve and the pump; H. a power supply connected to the pump, the actuation means of the valves and the microprocessor means.