초록 ▼

A pressure relief support system utilizes a self-adjusting approach to maintaining generally constant pressure in fluid support bladders. A constant force, such as from a constant force linear spring or from a counterweight system, is applied directly to a fluid support bladder or to a reservoir in

A pressure relief support system utilizes a self-adjusting approach to maintaining generally constant pressure in fluid support bladders. A constant force, such as from a constant force linear spring or from a counterweight system, is applied directly to a fluid support bladder or to a reservoir in fluid communication with such bladder. Plural self-adjusting arrangements may be provided in a single device for fabricating a support body with sectionalized support. Such arrangements may be incorporated into mattress support systems or into seating arrangements or other alternative uses. By appropriately selecting system components, such as the amount of the constant force applied, the original volume of fluid to which the force is applied, and the reservoir size, pressure dispersion for a patient or supported object of any type may be controlled at a predetermined generally constant point. By utilizing the potential energy of a constant force linear spring or equivalent arrangement, a self-adjusting system and methodology is provided which does not require any form of electronic control system for receiving sensory feedback or for operating pressure pumps or valving systems responsive to any such feedback.

대표청구항 ▼

A self-adjusting pressure relief patient support apparatus, comprising: a main support body for receiving a patient thereon, and having at least one adjustable fluid support bladder with fluid therein; and constant force fluid reservoir means, in fluid communication with said fluid support bladder,

A self-adjusting pressure relief patient support apparatus, comprising: a main support body for receiving a patient thereon, and having at least one adjustable fluid support bladder with fluid therein; and constant force fluid reservoir means, in fluid communication with said fluid support bladder, for automatically adjusting said bladder using potential energy so as to maintain a generally constant predetermined internal pressure in said bladder responsive to changing patient loading on said main support body; wherein said fluid reservoir means includes a fluid reservoir and fluid passageway means for interconnecting said reservoir in sealed fluid communication with said support bladder; wherein said reservoir comprises a variable volume chamber for holding fluid; wherein said fluid reservoir comprises a generally longitudinal bellows with pleated sidewalls such that the volume of said bellows varies with axial compression thereof.