JP2015526261A - Patient support - Google Patents

Abstract

A patient support for supporting a patient includes a plurality of cushion layers such that the support surfaces of the plurality of cushion layers when not loaded are generally disposed in one plane. And each cushion layer is arranged in a state of being combined with each of the adjacent cushion layers, and each cushion layer provides lateral and longitudinal support to each of the adjacent cushion layers of each cushion layer. .

Description

  The present invention relates generally to patient supports, and more specifically to patient mattresses for hospital beds.

The present invention provides a mattress for supporting a patient comprising one or more cushion layers, wherein the one or more cushion layers provide subsidence and pressure distribution for the patient supported on the mattress.
In one form of the invention, the patient support comprises a plurality of cushion layers, the support surfaces of the plurality of cushion layers being generally unloaded in a single plane when unloaded. Arranged. Each cushion layer is associated with each adjacent cushion layer, and each cushion layer provides lateral and longitudinal support to each of the adjacent cushion layers.

  In one aspect, the cushion layer includes an air bag layer.

  In another aspect, the cushion layer includes a gel layer.

  According to yet another aspect, at least one of the cushion layers includes a transverse opening that allows air to pass through the at least one cushion layer to direct airflow through the at least one cushion layer.

  In any of the above-described supports, the patient support can include a plurality of inflatable bladders and a gel layer adjacent to the inflatable bladder. For example, the gel layer may be combined with an adjacent bladder of inflatable bladders.

  In another aspect, each of the bladders has a hexagonal cross section. In addition or alternatively, the gel layer can include a plurality of hexagonal gel footings. For example, each gel footing can be separated from its adjacent gel footing. Optionally, each of the gel footings can be internally reinforced with a plurality of hexagonal gel wall structures.

  According to yet another aspect, the cushion layer is supported on the foam bed.

  In addition, the support is optionally selected, but includes a repositioning bladder positioned under the foam couch, wherein the foam couch is supported on the patient support. Including at least two hinged panels to allow patient repositioning.

  In another aspect, the support includes a cover and is configured to flow air through the support under the cover to manage moisture that may build up under the cover and the cover is liquid. Is formed from a material that prevents gas and moisture from flowing through the cover.

  For example, the foam bed can include a plurality of channels extending through the foam bed to direct air through the foam bed and into at least one of the cushion layers. In addition, the foam couch can support or contain one or more blowers to direct air through the channel.

  In another aspect, the support cover includes a mesh panel that allows air to be drawn into the cover by the blower unit.

  Thus, the present invention provides a support surface that provides pressure distribution and optional but improved humidity management for the patient.

  According to one aspect, the present invention provides a cover for a patient support such as a mattress for supporting a patient on a bed such as a hospital bed. This cover is adapted to provide a generally smooth upper surface that extends over the mattress while still adapting to movement of various parts of the mattress or changes in the thickness of the mattress, for example when repositioning the patient . Optionally, the cover may be configured to follow the surface topology of the mattress, including a mattress with a raised pillow and / or a mattress with a raised head end. it can.

  In one form, the patient support includes a cushion layer and a cover, the cover comprising a flexible fabric top panel extending over the top of the cushion layer and two coupled to the top panel. Side panel. These side panels extend along the sides of the cushion layer and are fixed on the bottom side of the cushion layer. The side panel shrinks to accommodate variations in cushion layer height to allow the top panel to remain generally smooth even when the cushion layer is subject to changes in the cushion layer surface topology, or Configured to spread.

  In one aspect, the cushion layer comprises a cushion system. For example, the cushion system can include a plurality of bladders.

  In a further aspect, the side panel is secured on the bottom side of the cushion layer by a bottom panel that extends below the bottom side of the cushion layer.

  In another form of the invention, the patient support includes a cushion layer and a cover, the cover being connected to extend from the top downward to the upper part for extending over the cushion layer 2. With two sides. These sides extend along the sides of the cushion layer and are fixed on the bottom side of the cushion layer. The sides of the cover shrink to accommodate variations in the cushion layer height, allowing the cushion layer to remain generally smooth even when the cushion layer is subject to changes in the cushion layer surface topology, or Configured to spread.

  In one aspect, the cover is formed from a top panel that forms a top and the side is formed by a side panel that is connected to the top panel. The cover further includes a bottom panel that is coupled to the side panel, thereby securing the side panel under the cushion layer.

  In any of the above, the side or side panel can be formed from a liquid impermeable fabric. For example, the top panel can be formed from a liquid impermeable material.

  In yet another form of the invention, the cover is a flexible fabric upper panel for extending over the top side of the mattress and a lower panel for extending under the bottom side of the mattress. And an end panel and a side panel connected to the upper panel and the lower panel. The side panel extends along the side of the mattress and has an upper edge and a lower edge. The upper edge is connected to the upper panel and the lower edge is connected to the lower panel. The side panel is configured to prevent liquid ingress into the mattress, and the side panel has an upper edge and a lower edge on the top panel even when the mattress is subject to changes in the mattress surface topology. It is configured to be separated and / or separated to accommodate variations in the height of the mattress to allow it to remain generally smooth.

  In any of the above, the cover can include a zipper. In addition, each of the side panels includes an upper side panel portion and a lower side panel portion. The upper side panel portion is connected to the upper panel. The lower side panel portion is connected to the lower panel, and the zipper joins the upper side panel portion and the lower side panel portion.

  In a further aspect, each of the upper side panel portions includes a fabric flap that extends to cover the zipper when the zipper is closed. For example, a fabric flap may be formed by a folded loop fabric.

  In yet another aspect, each of the upper side panel portions includes a fold, the fold being adjacent to the fold, for example when the cushion layer or mattress is raised so as to transform the patient. When the height of each side of the mating cushion layer or mattress increases, it includes at least a portion that at least partially expands the fold from the unexpanded configuration to the expanded configuration.

  In a still further aspect, the folds are biased to an unexpanded configuration so that when the mattress or cushion layer increases in height, at least a portion of each fold at least partially expands the fold. However, if the mattress or cushion layer decreases in height, each fold will generally return to the unexpanded configuration.

  In another aspect, each fold can be biased to an unexpanded configuration by one or more elastic strands. For example, one or more strands can extend between the upper panel and the lower panel. In such a manner, when the upper side of the mattress or cushion layer is raised relative to the lower side, the strand or strands are stretched and the upper side panel portion at least partially unfolds the fold. When the mattress or cushion layer is no longer in the raised position, the one or more strands pull the top panel, thereby allowing the top panel to return to its non-expanded configuration. Return to position.

  In any of the above, the cushion layer or mattress can include a plurality of inflatable bladders.

  According to yet another aspect, the inflatable bladder can be supported on a foam couch that is also contained within the cover.

  In addition, the cushion layer or mattress optionally includes a repositioning bladder disposed within the cover to allow repositioning of the patient supported on the patient support. . For example, the postural change air bag can be located directly below the foam bed.

  In another aspect, the cover is configured to allow air to flow under the cover to manage moisture that may accumulate under the cover, and the cover prevents liquid ingress but allows gas and moisture to pass through the cover. Formed from a material that allows it to flow.

  In yet another form, the patient support includes a plurality of cushion layers configured such that the upper cushion layer forms a patient support surface. The upper cushion layer includes a bladder layer having a plurality of bladders with at least two segment zones, wherein each segment zone is configured to be separately inflatable. Beneath the upper cushion layer is a pneumatic system having a plurality of supply pipes that are supported and guided by a bladder layer and connected to each section zone to inflate the section zone. The

  In one aspect, the bladder layer forms a carrier for the supply tube. For example, the bladder layer can include a plurality of supports for supporting the supply tube. For example, the supports can include channels formed or attached to the bottom surface of the bladder layer or to the bottom surface. A suitable support can be formed from a patch of sheet material that is bonded or welded to the bottom surface of the bladder layer or to the bottom surface. For example, the bladder layer can be formed by an upper sheet and a lower sheet, which are joined together, for example by welding, when the support is attached to the lower sheet. For example, the support can be glued or welded to the lower sheet. Alternatively, an additional sheet can be provided and joined to the lower sheet with a support attached to the additional sheet.

  According to yet another aspect, the bladder layer can include a harness portion for supporting the tube. For example, as described above, the air bag layer can be formed by the upper sheet and the lower sheet, and at this time, the harness portion is formed by the upper sheet. Alternatively, the harness portion can be formed by the lower sheet or by both sheets.

  In a further aspect, the harness portion consists of an extension of each of the sheet or sheets of bladder layers, for example in the form of a flange, the extension adapted to support the supply tube. For example, the flange portion can have an opening, the supply tube can be routed through the opening, or can pass through the opening, and the opening can place the supply tube in place. Is sized to hold on. For example, the opening may include a pair of slits, and the pair of slits are spaced apart so as to form a loop portion between the slits. It will be held in place by friction.

  In another form of the invention, the patient support includes a plurality of cushion layers arranged such that the upper cushion layer forms a support surface for the patient. The upper cushion layer includes a bladder layer having a plurality of bladders with at least two segment zones, wherein each segment zone is configured to be separately inflatable. Below the upper cushion layer is a sensing system having a plurality of sensing tubes, which are supported and guided by the bladder layer, and in each segment zone to sense the segment zone pressure. Connected.

  In one aspect, the bladder layer forms a carrier for the supply tube. For example, the air bag layer can include a plurality of supports for supporting the detection tube. For example, the supports can include channels formed or attached to the bottom surface of the bladder layer or to the bottom surface. A suitable support can be formed from a patch of sheet material that is bonded or welded to the bottom surface of the bladder layer or to the bottom surface. For example, the bladder layer can be formed by an upper sheet and a lower sheet, which are joined together, for example by welding, when the support is attached to the lower sheet. For example, the support can be glued or welded to the lower sheet. Alternatively, an additional sheet can be provided and joined to the lower sheet with a support attached to the additional sheet.

  According to yet another aspect, the air bladder layer can include a harness portion for supporting the detection tube. For example, as described above, the air bag layer can be formed by the upper sheet and the lower sheet, and at this time, the harness portion is formed by the upper sheet. Alternatively, the harness portion can be formed by the lower sheet or by both sheets.

  In a further aspect, the harness portion is composed of an extension of each of the sheet or sheets of bladder layers, for example in the form of a flange, the extension adapted to support the detector tube. For example, the flange portion can have an opening, the sensing tube can be routed through the opening, or can pass through the opening, and the opening can place the sensing tube in place. Configured to hold on. For example, the opening can include a pair of slits, and the pair of slits are spaced apart so as to form a loop portion between the slits. It will be held in place by friction.

  According to yet another aspect, in any of the patient supports described above, the bladder layer can include transverse openings, such that the transverse openings direct airflow through the at least one cushion layer. Allows air to pass through the bladder layer.

  In any of the supports described above, the patient support can include a gel layer adjacent to the inflatable bladder. For example, the gel layer may be combined with an adjacent bladder of inflatable bladders. In another aspect, each of the bladders has a hexagonal cross section. In addition or alternatively, the gel layer can include a plurality of hexagonal gel footings. For example, each gel footing can be separated from each adjacent gel footing of the gel footing. Optionally, each of the gel footings can be internally reinforced with a plurality of hexagonal gel wall structures. According to yet another aspect, the cushion layer is supported on the foam bed. In addition, the support is optionally selected, but includes a repositioning bladder positioned under the foam couch, wherein the foam couch is supported on the patient support. Including at least two hinged panels to allow patient repositioning.

  In another aspect, the support includes a cover and is configured to flow air through the support under the cover to manage moisture that may build up under the cover and the cover is liquid. Is formed from a material that prevents gas and moisture from flowing through the cover.

  For example, the foam bed can include a plurality of channels extending through the foam bed to direct air through the foam bed and into at least one of the cushion layers. In addition, the foam couch can support or contain one or more blowers to direct air through the channel.

  In another aspect, the support cover includes a mesh panel that allows air to be drawn into the cover by the blower unit.

  Before the embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, the present invention may be described in the details of such operations, whether described in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. It should be understood that neither the details of the configuration of the components nor the details of the arrangement of the components are limited. The invention can be practiced in various other embodiments and can be practiced or carried out in alternative ways not expressly disclosed herein. It should also be understood that the wording and terminology used herein is for purposes of illustration and should not be considered as limiting. The use of “including”, “comprising” and variations thereof is meant to encompass the items listed above and their equivalents, as well as additional items and their equivalents. Further, enumeration may be used in the description of various embodiments. Unless specifically stated, the use of enumeration should not be construed as limiting the invention to any particular order of components or any particular quantity. The use of enumeration is also to be interpreted as excluding any additional steps or components that may be combined with or incorporated into the enumerated steps or components from the scope of the present invention. Should not.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a patient support shown attached to a patient support device, for example a hospital bed. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the patient support of FIG. 1. 1 is a fragmentary exploded view of a patient support illustrating various cushion layers and components that can be incorporated into the patient support. FIG. FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 2 with the cover removed to show the internal cushion layer. 1 is a plan view of a patient support illustrating various regions or section zones of the patient support. FIG. It is a perspective view of the air bag layer of a patient support body. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an air bag layer with a cross-section partially cut away illustrating the configuration of at least some of the air bags. It is a perspective view of the foam bed body which supports an air bag layer. FIG. 6 is a perspective view from the bottom of the foam couch of FIG. 5 illustrating the foam couch with a hinged panel. It is a perspective view of the base body of a patient support body. It is a perspective view of a pair of postural change air bags. It is a perspective view of the gel layer of a patient support body. It is an enlarged plan view of the gel footing of the gel layer of FIG. FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 3 illustrating a patient supported on the surface and illustrating the sinking of the patient's body to the surface. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a patient support and cover shown attached to a patient support device, for example a hospital bed. FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the patient support and cover of FIG. 11. It is a figure similar to FIG. FIG. 14 is a view similar to FIG. 13 illustrating a cover tie down that is optionally selected. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cover showing the position of a tie that is optional and shown over the patient. It is a perspective view of the head end part of a patient support body, and a head end part is shown with an air bag in the state where a head cushion was attached to the head end part. It is a top view of the head end part of the patient support body of FIG. FIG. 17 is a view similar to FIG. 16 where the patient support and cushion are shown transparent to illustrate the fixation system for the cushion. It is a figure which shows one form among the forms of the various straps for fixing a head end part cushion to the air bag which is under. It is a figure which shows one form among the forms of the various straps for fixing a head end part cushion to the air bag which is under. It is a figure which shows one form among the forms of the various straps for fixing a head end part cushion to the air bag which is under. It is a top view of the head end part of an air bag layer. It is a perspective view of the patient support instrument which is a hospital bed, for example. It is a perspective view of the air bag layer of the patient support instrument of FIG. It is a top view of the air bag layer of FIG. 20A. It is an enlarged view of the detail 21A of FIG. It is an enlarged view of the detail 21B of FIG. FIG. 21B is a view similar to FIG. 21B with the tube inserted. FIG. 20B is a bottom perspective view of the air bag layer of FIG. 20A. FIG. 23 is a view similar to FIG. 22 with the tube removed for ease of viewing. FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of the air bag layer of FIG. 23. It is an enlarged plan view of the support body attached to the bottom surface of the air bag layer or the bottom surface. It is a perspective view of the foam of a patient support body and a gel layer. FIG. 3 is a side view of a foam and gel layer of a patient support. It is a one part perspective view of the foam bed body which supports an air bag layer. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of a foam bed, the foam bed being inverted to show the connection between the foot side portion of the foam bed body and the head / body side portion of the foam bed body; It is a figure which supports the gel layer set | placed on the air bag layer. It is a perspective view of the foot | leg part part of the folded foam bed body, and is a figure which shows the hinge formed of a gel layer.

  Referring to FIG. 1, reference numeral 10 generally refers to the patient support of the present invention. Although described as a “patient” support, a “patient” is not limited to people undergoing medical treatment, such as a disabled person who may or may not have received medical treatment, and a person undergoing long-term treatment, etc. It should be understood that it should be broadly interpreted to include others. Furthermore, although the patient support 10 is illustrated and described as a mattress, the patient support 10 may take other forms such as a pad, cushion, including a wheelchair cushion or a non-moving chair pad. Will be understood. As will be described in more detail below, the patient support 10 provides support to the patient's body and further provides therapy or treatment to the patient, eg, rotation therapy, percussion therapy. ) Or vibration therapy or the like. In addition, the support surface of the patient support can be configured to provide a control system. It should be noted that the control system automatically determines a suitable subsidence level for an individual patient located on the support, thereby producing a personalized subsidence level tailored to a particular individual. For further details of a suitable subduction control system, see co-pending U.S. patent application entitled “INFLATABLE MATTRESS AND CONTROL METHODS” and filed on September 5, 2012. No. 61 / 696,819 (the agent reference number is 143667.150316 (P400)). The above document is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

  Referring again to FIG. 1, the patient support 10 is supported on a patient support device 12, which in this particular embodiment is a hospital bed. However, the patient support device 12 can take other forms than hospital beds, such as, but not limited to, long-term care beds, foldable cots, stretchers, operating tables, wheeled stretchers Or the like. Furthermore, the patient support device 12 may be a conventional support device that is commercially available and merely provides a support function for the patient support 10.

  For example, the patient support device 12 can include one or more controls, which are integrated into the patient support device 12 and, as will be discussed in detail below, one or more of the patient support 10. Used to control the function of For example, an electrical connection can be provided to establish an electrical link with a user interface that is placed or integrated into the fence of the patient support device 12. The user interface can take a variety of forms, such as, but not limited to, a touch screen, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plurality of buttons, a plurality of switches, a plurality of knobs, or the like, or Any combination of these components can take the form and allow the user to control the operation of the patient support 10. The connection between the interface and the patient support 10 can take a variety of forms, for example using an electrical connector that electrically connects the user interface to circuitry supported on or in the bed frame. It can take the form of a direct electrical cable extending from the board to the patient support 10 and / or via wireless communication. These forms are, for example, by the same applicant and disclosed in US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 802,855 (filed Mar. 14, 2013) by Michael Hayes et al. The above document is entitled “COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS FOR PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATES”, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. For further exemplary details of suitable hospital beds, see US Pat. No. 8,006,332, US Pat. No. 7,690,059, US Pat. No. 7,805,784, US See the beds described in US Pat. No. 7,962,981 and US Pat. No. 7,861,334. All five patents are commonly owned by Stryker Corporation of Kalamazoo, Michigan, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

  Referring to FIG. 2, patient support 10 includes a cover 14 that provides a plurality of features that are optionally selectable. For example, the cover 14 can be formed from a soft knitted material that provides a high breathability rate to facilitate moisture management, such as a soft nylon knitted or nylon-like fabric. be able to. In addition, the cover 14 is formed with braided fibers on the side facing the patient in the cover and an inner surface formed by a stretchable elastic membrane, as will be described in more detail below. The elastic membrane can be stretched so as not to reduce, if not eliminate, interference with patient sinking into the patient support 10. Further, as will be described in more detail below, the cover 14 circulates through the support as part of a low air loss system, which is optionally selected. In order to enclose one or more blowers or fans to allow the cover 14 to incorporate a mesh panel that is eyed to allow air to be drawn into the cover 14.

  In another aspect, the cover 14 can include one or more indicia on its surface. For example, the cover 14 can include an indication on the patient support 10 to define a preferred position for the patient. The display defines a boundary 16 such as a line that defines the entire body region where the patient should be positioned in the supine position, and a foot region, thigh and buttocks region, back region and head region of the patient support, Similarly, additional boundaries 18, 20, 22, and 24, such as lines, can be included. In this way, if the patient is located in the whole body region and is generally aligned with the sub-region, the patient will be properly aligned with the support cushion layer and the repositioning bladder. These support cushion layers and postural change bladders are configured to provide appropriate cushioning and functionality for the region of the patient's body.

  In addition to the boundaries that identify the various regions / sections of the support, other representations can be applied. Other indications include, for example, illustrated teachings, an illustration of the underlying cushion layer (eg, gel or bladder), as well as an optional percussion vibration / swing to facilitate proper patient positioning. There is an indication of the position of the dynamic vibration bladder and / or the postural change bladder.

  For example, the various boundaries indicating the various areas of the support, i.e. the thigh and back support areas, the foot support areas and the head support areas may be applied to the underlying sheet forming the cover using a heat transfer process. Can be applied. For example, the ink applied to the carrier sheet can be transferred using heat to the fabric forming the cover. In this manner, the ink does not simply coat the fabric as in silk screen printing, but instead assimilate with the fabric (and possibly the underlying elastic membrane). This assimilation gives the sheet a generally constant characteristic. This tends to reduce wear and increase the lifetime of the boundary.

  In order to provide adequate cushioning and sinking for the patient, the patient support 10 includes an air bag layer 26 having a plurality of air bags 26a, 26b that provide support to the patient's thighs, buttocks, back and head. And a gel layer 28 that provides support to the patient's buttocks. The air bag layer 26 may be formed from a sheet of elastomeric gel material, such that the sheet includes a plurality of sac or cavities, such as by injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming or molding including casting. Shaped. The plurality of bladders or cavities then form an upper wall 26c and a side wall 26d for each bladder 26a, 26b, and then each bladder 26a, 26b forms a bottom chamber 26e so as to form a closed chamber for the bladder. (See FIG. 4A). The two sheets are joined together around the periphery of each of the two sheets and around each of the sac so as to form an array of separate air bags. At least some regions of these sheets can be left unjoined to form a flow path between some of the adjacent bladders or all of the adjacent bladders (e.g. FIG. 4A). As a result, a passage network can be formed in the bladder layer, thereby allowing air to flow between at least some of the bladders. This reduces the amount of piping required to inflate the bladder and maintain the pressure in the bladder at the desired pressure value. As will be described later, several bladders can be grouped such that the bladders form a plurality of segmented zones with respect to communicating with each other through the air passages or pipes described above.

  Referring to FIG. 2, the bladder layer 26 and the gel layer 28 have their top or patient-facing surfaces next to each other and in the same plane and at the same height (when no patient load is applied). Supported to be generally positioned to form one generally continuous cushion layer. As will be described later, at the interface between the gel layer and the bladder layer, the gel layer should be slightly angled downward to provide a more comfortable transition between adjacent cushion layers. Can do.

  In the illustrated and illustrated embodiment, the bladders 26a, 26b are arranged within a segmented zone, and these bladders 26a, 26b are arbitrarily selected, although other segmented zones or other It can be controlled independently with the expansion / contraction of each zone independent of multiple zone zones. For example, the zone zones include a head zone at the head end 10a of the support 10, a back zone at the back section 10c of the support 10, and a hip and thigh zone at the hip and thigh section 10d. And a buttock zone in the foot end 10b of the patient support 10. In addition, each segment zone can be divided into, for example, a left sub-segment zone and a right sub-segment zone so that when the patient is repositioned, the pressure of the bladder on one side is Adjustments can be made (eg, raised or lowered) to accommodate movement. For example, in the illustrated and described embodiment, the hip segment zone includes a right hip segment zone and a left hip segment zone to facilitate patient repositioning. In the illustrated and described embodiment, the back section zone and the head section zone are grouped together into a single group and further positioned so that they are generally aligned together when the patient is positioned on the support 10. .

  Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the bladder 26a has a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns (the rows being transverse to the longitudinal axis of the patient support, the columns being generally at the longitudinal axis of the patient support. The air bags 26a in each row are offset in the longitudinal direction relative to the adjacent air bags 26a so as to form an alternating pattern in each row, thereby The plurality of bladders fits in a nested manner with a plurality of bladders in adjacent rows. Furthermore, the horizontal center line of each air bag 26a extends between the adjacent air bags. In the illustrated and illustrated embodiment, each bladder 26a has a hexagonal cross section so that the edge of each bladder is offset from the corresponding edge of the adjacent bladder. For further details of the bladder configuration, material and structure, see the following co-pending references: That is, the US Patent Application No. 13 / 022,326 filed on Feb. 7, 2011 ("PATIENT / INVALID HANDING SUPPORT (patient / patient support)") and the agent reference number is STR03A P- No. 13 / 022,372 filed Feb. 7, 2011 ("PATIENT / INVALID HANDLING SUPPORT") and agent reference number Is STR03A P-257B), entitled US Pat. Appl. No. 13 / 022,382 filed Feb. 7, 2011 ("PATIENT / INVALID HANDING SUPPORT"), The agent reference number is STR03A P-257C ) And U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 022,454 filed February 7, 2011 ("PATIENT / INVALID HANDLIN SUPPORT (patient / patient support)") and the agent reference number is STR03AP. No. 13 / 548,591 filed Jul. 13, 2012 ("PATIENT / INVALID HANDLING SUPPORT"), organized by agent All of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. No. STR03A P-376A).

  Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4, the plurality of air bags 26b in the head section have a generally block-like configuration with a state in which the side portions of the air bags 26b facing the air bags 26a have recesses. doing. Note that the recess matches the shape of the air bag 26a so as to provide a smooth transition between the air bag at the head end and the air bag at the back section. These air bags 26b can also incorporate a cover 26c, so that, as will be described later, the patient is repositioned by bundling both the left and right head end air bags together. Provide uniform support to the patient's head except when

  The gel layer 28 is formed from a gel-like material (gelastic material). Suitable gelled materials include SEB, SEBS, SEP, SEPS, SEEP, SEEPS polymers mixed with mineral oil. These polymers are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 3,485,787, U.S. Pat. No. 3,676,387, U.S. Pat. No. 3,827,999, U.S. Pat. No. 540, US Pat. No. 4,351,913, US Pat. No. 4,369,284, US Pat. No. 4,618,213, US Pat. No. 5,262,468 Specification, US Pat. No. 5,508,334, US Pat. No. 5,239,723, US Pat. No. 5,475,890, US Pat. No. 5,334,646 US Pat. No. 5,336,708, US Pat. No. 4,432,607, US Pat. No. 4,492,428, US Pat. No. 4,497,538, US Patent No. 4,509,821 US Pat. No. 4,709,982, US Pat. No. 4,716,183, US Pat. No. 4,798,853, US Pat. No. 4,942,270, US Pat. No. 5,149,736, US Pat. No. 5,331,036, US Pat. No. 5,881,409, US Pat. No. 5,994,450, US Pat. US Pat. No. 5,749,111, US Pat. No. 6,026,527, US Pat. No. 6,197,099, US Pat. No. 6,865,759, US Pat. , 060,213, US Pat. No. 6,413,458, US Pat. No. 7,730,566 and US Pat. No. 7,964,664, and these All literature is by reference Whole of which is incorporated herein.

  As an example, the elastomeric gel material can be formulated with an oil to polymer weight ratio of about 3.1: 1. The polymer can be Kraton 1830, available from Kraton Polymers with offices in Houston, Texas, or can be another suitable polymer. The oil can be a mineral oil or can be another suitable oil. One or more stabilizers can also be added. Additional components can be added, for example, but not limited to, dyes can be added. In another example, the elastomeric gel material can be formulated at an oil to copolymer weight ratio of about 2.6: 1. The copolymers can be Septon 4055 and 4044, available from Kuraray America, Inc., having offices in Houston, Texas, or other copolymers. If Septon 4055 and 4044 are used, the weight ratio of Septon 4055 to Septon 4044 can be about 2.3: 1. The oil can be a mineral oil and one or more stabilizers can also be used. Additional components can also be added, for example, but not limited to, dyes can be added. In addition to these two examples and the examples disclosed in the above patent literature, still other formulations can be used.

  In the illustrated and described embodiment, the gel layer 28 comprises a plurality of gel-like footings that are capable of contracting each other such that each footing can contract independently of the adjacent and surrounding footings. Has been separated from. The term footing is used in the sense that the entire gel structure (defined by the gel wall 30) is wider in width than in height. Referring to FIG. 4A, each footing is formed by an outer peripheral wall 30 having a generally hexagonal shape, where the outer peripheral wall 30 is supported on the inside by six internal hexagonal walls. The six internal hexagonal walls are arranged in an annular pattern so as to form a central hexagonal wall, and the central hexagonal wall is formed by an inner wall portion of each of the six internal hexagonal walls. Next, the six internal hexagonal walls share the wall with the outer peripheral wall 30. In other words, the central hexagonal wall is not defined by separate walls, but is defined by the walls facing the inside of each internal hexagonal wall. Similarly, the outer wall of each internal hexagonal wall is provided or formed by a portion of the outer peripheral wall 30.

  For example, the height of each wall may range from about 2.5 inches to 10.16 cm (about 1 inch to 4 inches) or from about 5.08 cm to 7.62 cm (about 2 inches to 3 inches). The thickness of each wall can range from about 0.79 mm to 9.53 mm (about 1/32 inch to 3/8 inch) or about 1.59 mm to 6.35 mm (about 1/16 inch to 1/4). Inch) range. The width of each footing can range from about 3 inches to 6 inches, or from about 4 inches to 5 inches. Sometimes each internal hexagonal wall ranges from 2.54 cm to 5.08 cm (about 1 inch to 2 inches) or about 1.91 cm to 3.81 cm (about 3/4 inches to 1 and 1/2 inches). It can be a range. To facilitate injection molding, the walls are slightly tapered, for example to form a draft angle. For example, the draft angle can be in the range of about 1 degree to 10 degrees or in the range of about 3 degrees to about 8 degrees.

  In this manner, each gel footing 30 forms a series of nested gel walls with interconnected gel walls that buckle under the weight of the patient. It tends to continue to provide cushion support to the patient's heel until the inner wall of each group is completely collapsed. By spreading the load across a number of walls that are arranged in interconnected but isolated groups, each group can sink more and all walls are connected together. Results in better stress or pressure redistribution across the patient's heel than if

  In addition, each gel wall of each gel footing can be joined at the lowermost edge by a base sheet made of gel. It should be noted that this base sheet is relatively thin like a film and is used in the molding process to help disperse the gel material across the width of the gel layer.

  In addition, the gel layer 28 formed by the gel is selected to be very flexible, but it is still possible to provide sufficient support and cushion to the patient's heel by involving the interconnection of adjacent inner walls. You can also. For examples of other gel forms that may be used, including gel columns (in which the gel structure has a height greater than the width), reference is again made to the following document. US Pat. No. 3,485,787, US Pat. No. 3,676,387, US Pat. No. 3,827,999, US Pat. No. 4,259,540, US Pat. No. 4,351,913, US Pat. No. 4,369,284, US Pat. No. 4,618,213, US Pat. No. 5,262,468, US Pat. US Pat. No. 5,508,334, US Pat. No. 5,239,723, US Pat. No. 5,475,890, US Pat. No. 5,334,646, US Pat. , 336,708, U.S. Pat. No. 4,432,607, U.S. Pat. No. 4,492,428, U.S. Pat. No. 4,497,538, U.S. Pat. No. 4,509. No. 821, US Pat. No. 4, 709,982, US Pat. No. 4,716,183, US Pat. No. 4,798,853, US Pat. No. 4,942,270, US Pat. No. 5,149, No. 736, US Pat. No. 5,331,036, US Pat. No. 5,881,409, US Pat. No. 5,994,450, US Pat. No. 5,749,111 Specification, US Pat. No. 6,026,527, US Pat. No. 6,197,099, US Pat. No. 6,843,873, US Pat. No. 6,865,759 US Pat. No. 7,060,213, US Pat. No. 6,413,458, US Pat. No. 7,730,566, US Pat. No. 7,823,233, US Patent No. 7,827,636 Book, is US Patent No. 7,823,234 and U.S. Patent No. 7,964,664. All of the above documents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

  As best shown in FIG. 3, the bladder layer 26 and the gel layer 28 are supported by a foam crib 40. The couch 40 is optionally selected but includes a first portion 40a that extends from the patient's head end to the thigh region under the bladder layer 26 and a patient support under the gel layer. And a second portion 40b extending from below the thigh region to the foot end portion 10b. The bed body 40 easily forms a hardened rail along both sides of the support 10 and easily holds the cushion layer made of air bag and gel in place.

  Foam couch portion 40a includes a base 42 and a pair of upwardly extending side walls 44 that extend along opposite sides of air bag layer 26 as described above. A fence is formed thereby facilitating access to the bed and wrapping to hold the patient when the patient is in the supine position. 5 and 6, the base wall 42 of the bed body 40 includes a plurality of channels. The plurality of channels form a tree-like configuration including a central channel 46 and a plurality of laterally extending branch channels 48. These branch channels 48 are in fluid communication with the central channel 46. The central channel 46 is in fluid communication with an injection or delivery channel 46 a formed at the base of the central channel 46. Each injection channel 46a includes a recess 46b for receiving the blower unit 50, and the blown air output from the blower unit 50 is directed toward the central channel 46 through the injection or feed channel 46a. The inlet of the blower unit 50 extends through the lower edge of the base wall 42 so that even if the blower unit 50 is covered by the air bag layer 26, the blower unit will be described in more detail below. As described, air can be drawn from the space adjacent to the lower end of the foam couch 40. These channels also make the foam bed easier to bend, as described below.

  When the blower unit 50 is activated, it sends air to the channels 46a and 46, which then distributes the air to the branch channels 48, thereby creating an air flow from below into the bladder 36. In order to allow air to flow through the bladder layer 26, the base sheet of the bladder layer 26 includes a plurality of openings so that the air is as indicated by the arrows in FIG. It is possible to flow upward through the air bag layer 26 and between the air bags 26a. To make the air flow more concentrated, the base layer 42 can incorporate a sheet 54 of nonwoven material (FIGS. 2A and 6) that is adhered to its surface. This sheet of nonwoven material 54 extends to cover the injection channel 46a, the central channel 46 and a portion of the branch channel 48, thereby leaving the distal end of each branch channel open, As a result, the branch channel 48 directs air into the bladder layer 46 at separate spatial locations.

  Referring again to FIG. 5, each side wall 44 of the bed body 40 has an upper wedge-shaped portion 60 adjacent to at least the shoulder region of the patient supported on the patient support 10. The wedge-shaped portion 60 forms an angled surface facing the patient in the patient's shoulder region. These angled surfaces extend above the upper surface of the bladder layer 26 when inflated and unloaded, and at a higher height when the patient is positioned on the bladder layer 26. It extends above the air bag layer 26. Thus, the wedge-shaped portion 60 provides lateral support to the patient in the shoulder position, but is sufficiently elastic to collapse down to the lower base of the side wall 44 when the patient descends from the bed. .

  The inwardly facing side of the side wall 44 is optionally selected, but includes a plurality of recesses 62 that are at least generally conformed to the outer shape of each adjacent air bag 26a, thereby Side support is provided to each air bag adjacent in both the lateral and longitudinal directions. As a result, when the air bag 26a is held in a predetermined position and has an arrangement configuration in which the air bag 26a itself engages, the air bag 26a is somewhat interlocked with each other to some extent. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 3, the inwardly facing edge of the gel layer 28 can include a plurality of recesses to receive an air bag adjacent to the gel layer, resulting in a foot end. The air bags of the parts are similarly supported in the lateral and longitudinal directions by the adjacent gel layers.

  As best shown in FIG. 6, the foam couch portion 40b similarly has a base wall 64 with a pair of upwardly extending side walls 66, each of which includes a gel footing. And a plurality of recesses that substantially match the shape of the recesses formed between the gel footings. Thus, in a manner similar to an air bag, the side walls 66 provide lateral and longitudinal support to each of the adjacent gel footings that extend along the edges of the gel layer 28. In this way, each layer is combined with an adjacent layer so that all three materials (foam, air-filled bladder and gel) form a cushion system.

  In addition, the foam base wall 66 of the foam couch section 40b includes a plurality of recesses so as to receive the lower end of each air bag at the foot end of the air bag layer 26, and further adjacent and downward to each recess. Provides a tapered upper surface that tapers. As a result, the gel footing at the thigh end of the gel layer 28 is inclined downward so as to provide a smooth transition between the adjacent gel layer and the air bag layer. This transition is arbitrarily selected, but is generally positioned between the patient's knee and thigh supported on the patient support 10.

  As best shown in FIG. 2A, patient support 10 optionally includes a pair of postural change bladders 70a and 70b. The postural change air bladders 70 a and 70 b are disposed directly below the bed body 40. Referring to FIG. 5, the bladders 70a and 70b are aligned below the compartments 42a and 42b in the base wall 42 of the bed body 40, and these compartments 42a and 42b are hinged panels. To be separated from the rest of the bed along the three sides. These hinged panels are hinged at the center of the bed body 40 so that the hinged panel can be lifted when one of the postural change bladders is inflated. In order to prevent the hinged panels from falling into the bed, each panel is optionally selected but includes an L-shaped rim. The L-shaped rim is generally aligned with a corresponding L-shaped sill that extends around the panel being pulled apart and is balanced by the bed.

  In order to send air to the air bags 26a and 26b and the postural change air bags 70a and 70b, the support 10 includes a pneumatic system. In the illustrated and described embodiment, the pneumatic system includes an air harness body 80 that includes a plurality of piping sections 84. A plurality of piping sections 84 are supported and secured to a fabric carrier, which secures the various piping sections and associated connectors 86 in a desired configuration and position. In this way, once the harness body 80 is placed over the bed body 40, the piping and its associated connectors can be easily aligned with the appropriate inlets for inflating each of the bladders. . The piping and the fabric carrier body together form a flexible manifold that includes one or more pumps whose inlet ends (portions exit the carrier body) supply air to each bladder. Can be easily positioned at a position that is arranged and aligned to couple to. The pump or pumps that supply the air to the piping is optionally selected, but is positioned in a box at the foot end of the support, as will be described in more detail below.

  As described above, the various lines that supply air to the bladder are connected to one or more pumps, which in the illustrated embodiment are illustrated in FIG. Is positioned within. The pump box 90 is preferably positioned at the foot end 10 b of the patient support 10 and is preferably positioned further below the bed portion 40 b below the gel layer 28. The pump box 90 can be formed of, for example, a polymer material and has a recess that is normally located and centrally located under the patient's heel so that the patient lies on the patient support 10. Occasionally, the depth of the patient's wrinkles is increased. In addition to storing or housing one or more pumps, the pump box 90 can also include a CPR manifold. When opened, the CPR manifold allows air to be expelled from the bladder, thereby allowing the patient to be supported directly on the couch beneath the bladder, and to be supported directly Provides a hardened surface that allows the patient to be CPRed. In addition to one or more pumps, box 90 also provides various controls and circuits for controlling one or more pumps, as well as various controls for other devices that may be incorporated into the patient support. Parts and circuits can also be accommodated.

  As described above, the bladders 26a, 26b are inflated or deflated in groups or compartments as described above under the control of the box 90 and its associated pumps and control circuitry. The fluid connection between the bladder and the box 90 is established by piping 84, which extends between the box 90 and the various bladders and connects to the bladder inlet by a connector 86. As described above, the tubing 84 is attached or contained in a fabric carrier body that together forms a flexible manifold 80.

  Similarly, the manifold 80 can support piping for the postural change air bags 70a and 70b extending from the head end portion 10a to the foot end portion 10b in a generally longitudinal direction. These postural change bladders 70a and 70b are arranged directly below the foam couch 40 as described above, and are used to assist in changing the position of the patient located on the top of the patient support 10. Is done. For this purpose, each of the repositioning bladders can be inflated and deflated separately and independently, which is likewise controlled by the box 90 and its associated circuitry.

  For example, co-pending US Patent Application No. 61 / 696,819 entitled “INFLATABLE MATTRESS AND CONTROL METHODS” and filed on September 5, 2012 (Attorney) As discussed with reference to reference number 143667.150316 (P400), the patient support 10 may incorporate a sensor, such as a depth sensor plate 92, for detecting the patient sinking into the surface. it can. Based on the detected sinking, the control device (may be positioned in the box 90 or may be positioned elsewhere including, for example, the recess 94 (FIG. 5) formed in the foam couch 40). Can be used to optimize the sinking of the patient to the surface based on the individual requirements of the patient. In order to assist the depth sensor plate 92, the support 10 incorporates a conductive cloth 102. Both the depth sensor plate 92 and the conductive cloth 102 function as a capacitance sensor whose output changes as the patient approaches or moves away. More specifically, the conductive cloth 102 functions similarly to the top plate of the parallel plate capacitor, while the depth sensor plate 92 forms the bottom plate of the parallel plate capacitor. Therefore, if the vertical distance between the conductive cloth 102 and any of the depth sensor plates 92 changes, the capacitance between the conductive cloth 102 and the plate (s) 92 will change. This change is detected by a detection circuit that is electrically connected between the conductive cloth 102 and the depth sensor plate 92. That is, one or more wires (not shown) are electrically connected to the conductive cloth 102 and the detection circuit, while one or more other wires (not shown) are detected with each plate 92. It is connected between the circuit. The conductive fabric 102 can be any commercially available fabric that has electrical conductivity, or can be a foil that has electrical conductivity, or is electrically conductive and It can be any other material that is sufficiently flexible that it does not significantly change the flexibility of the patient support 10 in the area of the material.

  The conductive cloth 102 is arranged on top of the air bag layer 26, but is placed over a fire sock or fire barrier 100. The fire barrier 100 is made from any suitable material that wraps around the bladder layer 26 and resists fire spread. Such materials can vary. In one embodiment, the fire barrier 100 is made from Kevlar® (Kevlar, polyparaphenylene terephthalamide) or other brand of para-aramid synthetic fiber, or Kevlar® or other brand of para-aramid. Synthetic fibers can be included. Other materials can be used instead. The cover 14 includes an upper cover portion 14a and a lower cover portion 14b. Therefore, the cover 14 is composed of the conductive cloth 102, the fireproof rug 100, the air bag layer 26, the gel layer 28, the bed body 40, and the posture changing air bag. 70a, 70b and plate 92 also enclose pump box 90 and air manifold. For example, the upper cover portion 14a and the lower cover portion 14b can be secured together with a zipper, which allows access to various components within the support 10.

  As described above, when one of the postural change bladders is inflated, the corresponding hinged panel of the foam bed is lifted. At the same time, the air in the bladder above the lifting panel can be maintained or increased while the pressure on the opposite bladder can be reduced or deflated until it is deflated.

  In addition to repositioning the patient, multiple sections of the patient support 10 can be folded to correspond to a raised Fowler or lowered leg section. For example, the support 10 can be supported on a bed with an articulated deck. The deck has a head section, a back section, a buttocks section and a leg section, at least one section being pivotable to raise the semi-sitting section or leg section as described above. It is in a state. In order to accommodate an articulated deck, the foam couch may include a corresponding gatch for each point of the joint (see FIG. 3). Further, the cover 14 can include a V-shaped section (not shown). The V-shaped section extends below the cover 14 and extends into one of the gatch sections so that the support bends similarly when one of the deck sections is pivoted. To adapt. For example, the crisp mesh described above can be positioned in a V-shaped section so that air is drawn into the cover when the blower unit is operating to circulate air through the cover. It becomes possible to be. However, it should also be understood that the mesh panel may be located elsewhere including the bottom side of the cover 14.

  Therefore, when assembled, the patient support 10 not only includes a cushion layer that provides a pressure redistribution system to enhance the support of the patient lying on the support 10, but is optionally selected. It provides both a moisture management system and a sinking control system. As noted above, additional functionality is provided, for example, in the form of part of the bladder as a percussion / oscillating bladder as described in the referenced copending patent application. be able to. The patient support 10 can be modified to include one or more bladders in the foot segment zone instead of the gel layer, and therefore the air pressure within these bladders is greater than the foot section bladder. It should be understood that it can be monitored and controlled by the same system that controls the thigh and buttocks section bladder and the head section bladder.

  Referring to FIG. 11, reference numeral 110 generally refers to the patient support of the present invention. As will be described in more detail below, the patient support 110 includes a cover 114. The cover 114 is adapted to accept subsidence and expansion of the patient support, for example, when used to reposition the patient with a smooth surface that does not rise.

  Referring to FIG. 12, the cover 114 can be formed from a flexible knitted material that provides high air permeability to facilitate moisture management, for example, formed from a flexible nylon knit or nylon-like fabric. be able to. In addition, the cover 114 can be formed with braided fibers on the patient-facing side of the cover and an inner surface formed by a stretchable elastic membrane that is supported by the elastic membrane. If it does not eliminate the interference with the patient's sinking into the body 110, it can be stretched so as not to reduce it. Further, co-pending US Patent Application No. 61 / 697,010, filed September 5, 2012 and entitled “PATIENT SUPPORT” (attorney docket number STR03A P-405). The cover 114 may optionally be selected to include one or more blowers or devices for circulating air through the support as part of the low air loss system. Enclose the fan. The above document is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Therefore, the cover 114 can incorporate one or more open mesh panels to allow air to be drawn into or blown out of the cover 114.

  In another aspect, also co-pending US patent application Ser. No. 61 / 697,010 filed Sep. 5, 2012 and entitled “PATIENT SUPPORT” (Attorney Docket Number). Is STR03A P-405), the cover 114 can include one or more indicia on its surface. For example, the cover 114 can include an indication on the patient support 110 to define a preferred position for the patient. The above display defines a boundary such as a line that defines the entire whole body region in which the patient should be positioned in the supine position, and a foot region, a thigh region, a buttocks region, a back region, and a head region of the patient support. And additional boundaries such as lines. In this way, if the patient is located in the whole body region and is generally aligned with the sub-region, the patient will be properly aligned with the support cushion layer and the repositioning bladder. These support cushion layers and postural change bladders are configured to provide appropriate cushioning and functionality for the region of the patient's body.

  In addition to the boundaries that identify the various regions / sections of the support, other representations can be applied. For example, the illustrated teachings and the illustration of the underlying cushion layer (eg, gel or bladder) are optional, but may also be impact vibration / to facilitate proper patient positioning. The position of the oscillating bladder and / or the postural change bladder can also be applied.

  For example, the various boundaries indicating the various areas of the support, i.e. the thigh and back support areas, the foot support areas and the head support areas may be applied to the underlying sheet forming the cover using a heat transfer process. Can be added. For example, the ink applied to the carrier sheet can be transferred using heat to the fabric forming the cover. In this way, the ink does not simply coat the fabric as in silk screen printing, but instead assimilate with the fabric (and possibly the underlying elastic membrane), which makes the sheet generally constant The characteristics are given. This tends to reduce wear and increase the lifetime of the boundary.

  To provide cushioning and subsidence for the patient, the patient support 110 includes one or more cushion layers for supporting the patient's body. Optionally, patient support 110 includes a cushion system formed from a plurality of cushion layers, the plurality of cushion layers at least one acting together in at least one or more directions. It is configured to be mechanically interconnected to more than one degree. In the illustrated and described embodiment, the patient support 110 includes a bladder layer 126 having a plurality of bladders that provide support to the patient's thighs, buttocks, back and head, for example to the patient's buttocks. And optionally a gel layer. The air bag layer 126 and the gel layer can be supported by the foam bed 130. Together, the bladder layer 126, the gel layer, and the foam couch 130 can form a cushion system for the patient support 110. The bed body 130 contributes to holding the cushion layer softened by the air bag and gel in place while providing a hardened fence along both sides of the support 110. The air bag, the gel layer, and the foam couch of the air bag layer 126 can act in a similar manner to some extent, although the air bag, the gel layer, and the foam couch are respectively selected. As such, it has surfaces or structures that interconnect them together in at least one direction. In addition, the side rails of the foam bed forming the long pillow are raised or angled upward relative to the top surface of the air bag layer over at least a portion of the air bag layer. Forming a cradle so that when the patient is lying on the bladder and gel layers, the foam couch holds the patient in place and holds the patient laterally Provide support, thereby reducing the risk of the patient rolling or falling from the patient support even when the side rails are lowered. September 5, 2012, for further details of the optional bladder layer, gel layer, and foam bed, and how they are mechanically connected And co-pending US Patent Application No. 61 / 697,010 (Attorney Docket No. STR03A P-405) entitled “PATIENT SUPPORT”.

  The cushion system can have multiple section zones. For example, the bladder itself can be placed in multiple zone zones, these zone zones being arbitrarily selected, but the inflation / deflation of each zone zone can be adjusted to one or more other zones. It can be controlled independently while being independent of the zone. These partition zones are formed by one group of bladders and at the head end zone at the head end of the support 110, and the back is formed by another group of bladders and in the back section of the support 110. A buttock and thigh section zone formed by a section zone, a third group of bladders and in the buttock and thigh section, and a buttock section formed by a gel layer and at the foot end of the patient support 110 Zones. In addition, each segment zone can be divided into, for example, a left sub-segment zone and a right sub-segment zone so that when the patient is repositioned, the pressure of the bladder on one side is subject to patient movement. Correspondingly, adjustments can be made (eg, raised or lowered). For example, in the illustrated and described embodiment, the hip segment zone includes a right hip segment zone and a left hip segment zone to facilitate patient repositioning. In the illustrated and described embodiment, the back section zone and the head section zone are grouped together and further positioned so that they are generally aligned together when the patient is positioned on the support 110. . For further details of bladder arrangement, materials and construction, see the following co-pending references: That is, the above document is US Patent Application No. 61 / 697,010 filed on September 5, 2012 and entitled “PATIENT SUPPORT (patient support)” (attorney docket number STR03A P-405). No. 13 / 022,326 filed Feb. 7, 2011 and entitled “PATIENT / INVALID HANDLING SUPPORT” (attorney docket number) STR03A P-257A) and US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 022,372 filed Feb. 7, 2011 and entitled “PATIENT / INVALID HANDLIN SUPPORT” (patient / patient support). The agent reference number is STR03A P-257B), 20 US Patent Application No. 13 / 022,382 filed February 7, 2011 and entitled “PATIENT / INVALID HANDLING SUPPORT” (Attorney Docket No. STR03A P-257C) No. 13 / 022,454 filed Feb. 7, 2011 and entitled “PATIENT / INVALID HANDLING SUPPORT” (Attorney Docket Number) No. 13 / 548,591 filed Jul. 13, 2012 and entitled “PATIENT / INVALID HANDLING SUPPORT”. (Attorney reference number is STR03AP Is a is) and 376A. And all of the above documents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

  Co-pending US Patent Application No. 61 / 697,010 filed September 5, 2012 and entitled “PATIENT SUPPORT (patient support)” (optional) The patient support 110 can include a pair of postural change bladders, as described in the reference number STR03A P-405). The postural change air bag is arranged directly below the bed body 130 but inside the cover 114. In order to reduce friction between the bed 130 formed from foam material and the bladder, a portion of the bed may be part of the fabric overwrap or overwrap 132 ( 12 and 13). The fabric can include a low friction material such as nylon so as to reduce resistance on the bladder and also reduce wear on the foam. One or more pumps that supply air to the post-conversion bladder and the support bladder piping are optionally selected, but at the foot end of the support and further below the gel layer 128 Located in the box 140 just below the foot end of the body 130. Similarly, for further details of support cushion layers and components that may be positioned within the cover 114, a co-pending US patent application filed September 5, 2012 and entitled “PATIENT SUPPORT”. No. 61 / 697,010 (Attorney Docket Number is STR03A P-405).

  Referring again to FIG. 12, the cover 114 includes an upper cover portion 150 and a lower cover portion 152 joined together by a zipper 154 that provides access to various components within the support 110. to enable. The upper cover portion 150 is an upper portion that can be formed from a separate panel, depending from the upper portion (when viewed in FIGS. 12-15) and is arbitrarily selected. And upper side portions formed from separate panels. The panel of the upper side part is connected to the upper panel, for example by welding or sewing. Similarly, the lower cover portion 152 can be formed from a separate lower panel, and extends upwardly from the bottom (when viewed in FIGS. 12-15) and optionally And a lower side portion formed from panel (s) that are selected but separated. The panel of the lower side part is connected to the lower panel, for example, by welding or sewing. In the illustrated and described embodiment, the top of the cover is configured to follow the surface topology of the underlying cushion or cushion system, thereby providing a smooth surface, which facilitates cleaning. Can be

  However, one or more side portions 114a, 114b and head end portion 114c of the cover 114 may be supported by the patient support to accommodate the increased thickness of the cushion system, for example, when one of the repositioning bladders is inflated. Is adapted or configured to shrink or expand so as to allow the top or top panel to remain generally smooth even when the surface topology changes. And the following was found. That is, a cover with a top sheet that fits loosely tends to bulge, for example when the patient is repositioned, which makes it difficult to clean and, as a result, excess fabric on one side. There is a possibility that it may shift. Note that the upper seat can accommodate changes in the shape of the underlying cushion system or cushion layer by providing excess material to the upper seat. As a result, excess fabric is no longer available to provide sagging on the other side of the mattress.

  12 to 14, the side portions 156 and 158 and the end portions 160 and 162 of the cover 114 are connected to the upper portion 164 and the lower portion 66 of the cover 114, respectively. As described above, the upper portion 164, the lower portion 166, the side portions 156, 158, and the end portions 160, 162 can each be formed from a panel. Sides 156 and 158 extend along the sides of the patient support and cushion system, with ends 160 and 162 extending between sides 156 and 158. Sides 156 and 158 and ends 160 and 162 each have an upper edge connected to the upper panel and a lower edge connected to the lower panel. However, it should be understood that: That is, some of the panels can be formed from one or more extensions of the top panel or the bottom panel, and therefore some of the above panels are not composed of separate panels. It is made of the same material that forms the upper or lower panel. Further, the side and head end panels are configured such that their upper and lower edges are separate and / or separated to extend and expand the respective side and head end panels. ing. As a result, the cover 114 changes the height of the mattress so as to allow the top panel to remain generally smooth as described above, even if the mattress is subject to changes in its surface topology. Can adapt to.

  Further, as described above, each side panel 156, 158 can include an upper side panel portion 156a, 158a and a lower side panel portion 156b, 158b. The upper side panel portions 156a and 158a are connected to the upper panel 166, and the lower side panel portions 156b and 158b are connected to the lower panel 168. Similarly, end panels 160 and 162 can have upper end panel portions 160a, 162a and lower end panel portions 162a, 162b. The upper end panel portions 160a and 162a are connected to the upper panel 166, and the lower end panel portions 160b and 162b are connected to the lower panel 168. Next, a zipper 154 joins the upper side panel portion to the lower side panel portion and joins the upper end panel portion to each of the lower end panel portions.

  In addition, the upper side panel portions 156a, 158a and the upper end panel portions 160a, 162a, respectively, are flaps or panels 170, 172 made of cloth that extends over the zipper when the zipper is closed. (Although only two are shown, it should be understood that other sides and other ends also have similar flaps or panels). For example, the flap is formed by a folded ring-shaped fabric and may include the same fabric used to form the upper end panel portion and the upper side panel portion. In this manner, the flaps 170 and 172 each form a watershed over the zipper to limit liquid ingress through the zipper.

  In the illustrated embodiment, each side and head end further includes a fold 174. The folds 174 may be unfolded (or at least partially unfolded) to allow the top of the cover 114 to rise with the upper surface of the cushion layer as the cushion layer height increases. ), And also allows the upper portion of the cover 114 to move with the sides maintaining the smoothness of the upper portion of the cover 114 and removing the obstruction to the upper surface of the cushion layer by the sides. In this way, when the height of the cushion layer increases, e.g. when the cushion layer is raised to reposition the patient, the side and head end folds from the unexpanded configuration to the expanded configuration. It is done. Furthermore, it should be understood that only a portion of one of the folds may partially expand the fold as the height of the cushion layer increases.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the folds are provided in the upper side panel portion and the upper head end panel portion. For example, the folds can be made from a material that forms the upper side panel portion and the upper head end panel portion, or a separate panel or sheet material that is attached, for example, by sewing or welding. Can be formed.

  Optionally, the fold can be biased to the unexpanded configuration so that it generally returns to its unexpanded configuration as the cushion layer height decreases. “Generally return to the non-expanded configuration” means that the folded portion returns to a non-expanded folded configuration that is generally similar to the original non-expanded configuration, rather than taking the exact same folded configuration. To do.

  For example, referring again to FIGS. 12 and 13, the fold can be biased to its unexpanded configuration by one or more elastic strands 176. Suitable elastic strands can be in the form of elastic or rubber straps covered with cloth, for example in the form of bungee. One or more strands can extend between the upper panel and the lower panel. In the illustrated embodiment, the strand 176 is threaded through the upper strap or panel 178 and the lower strap or panel 180. These straps or panels 178 and 180 are connected to the upper panel 166 and lower side panel portions 156b and 158b, respectively, and to the lower head end panel portion 160b. For example, panel 178 may be adhesive, removable fasteners (eg, hook and loop type patches [eg, VELCRO® patches] or snaps, etc.), stitched or welded, depending on the material. Can be fixed to the upper panel 166. The lower panel 180 is coupled to the upper portion 154a of the zipper 154 so that when the upper portion of the zipper is joined to the lower portion 154b of the zipper 154, the strands 176 become the upper and lower panels 166 and 168 of the cover 114. , Thereby energizing the folded portion 174. In this way, when the upper side of the mattress rises relative to the lower side, one or more strands are stretched, and the folded portion 174 in the upper side panel portion adjacent to the raised side of the mattress is , At least partially spread the fold. When the top panel 166 is pulled so that the mattress is no longer raised and the one or more strands are returned to the non-raised position, the one or more strands also have an upper head end panel portion and an upper side The folded portion of the part panel portion (on the contracted side) is also urged so as to return to its non-expanded form.

  Referring again to FIG. 12, the strand 176 can be threaded through a grommet 182 attached to the panels 178 and 180, and at its end, a cord lock or barrel Secured to panels 178 and 180 by a barrel lock 176a. Although illustrated as being formed by a single strand passing through the plurality of grommets of panels 178 and 180, it should be understood that more than one strand may be used.

  In order to further facilitate maintaining the corners of the cover 114 during the repositioning, for example, each corner may incorporate a maintenance anchor or maintenance fixation assembly 190. Optionally, the corners can be stiffened or reinforced to facilitate maintenance and fixing of the corners. For example, as best shown in FIG. 15, the maintenance and fixation system 190 includes a reinforcing member 192, such as a plastic tube, that is configured with a rounded corner shape. The reinforcement member can be attached to the top panel 166, for example, with the reinforcement member 192 placed in one or more loops that form an insertable channel. The one or more loops can then be attached to a plurality of tie downs such as straps 196 by means such as sewing, adhesive or welding. These straps 196 can then be attached to the lower cover portion 152 at their opposite ends by either sewn, welded or releasable fasteners (such as hook and loop fasteners or snaps), for example, Fixed to the lower panel 168. In this way, when the cushion system is raised by one or more repositioning bladders, the corners on the side being lifted are controlled by the length of the strap 196, so that the fixed height It stays in general. The strap 196 may be non-stretchable, may have somewhat limited elasticity, or a combination of both may be used. For example, straps or ties near the corners can be non-stretchable, while ties or straps located on the sides can have some elastic properties.

  As described above, the couch 130 can be wrapped or covered with a layer of fabric. The fabric can also protect the foam from strands and ties. These strands and bindings can also form wear points in the foam if not protected.

  With reference to FIGS. 16-18, the patient support 110 is optionally selected, but a cushion layer 198 can be incorporated on top of the bladder layer 126. For example, in the illustrated and illustrated embodiment, the cushion layer 198 can be configured as a head end cushion and can be secured to the head end of the bladder layer 126 by the strap 200. The cushion layer 198 can be formed from a flexible foam such as urethane foam. Suitable foamed urethanes include foamed urethane foamed at a density of about 2.5 pounds.

  The cushion layer 198 is contoured to provide raised or sloped side portions 198a, 198b. The armpits 198a and 198b hold the patient's head and assist in supporting the head, particularly during posture change. The central portion 198c of the cushion layer 198 can be generally flat, or can form a slightly recessed area that transitions to the sides with a smooth curvature. The upper end of the cushion layer 198 that is closer to the head end of the bladder layer 126 can be raised slightly (see FIGS. 19A-19C), while being generally positioned under the patient's neck. The lower end that will fit can also be raised slightly. In this way, the patient's head is held by the cushion layer 198.

  In addition to securing the cushion layer 198 to the bladder layer 126 by a strap 200 that extends through the cushion layer 198 (see FIGS. 19A-19C for optional configurations), the cushion layer 198. The cushion layer 198 can also be configured such that the lower surface of the air bag layer follows the surface topology of one or more bladders 126a of the bladder layer 126, thereby further fixing the position of the cushion layer. For example, referring to FIGS. 19A-19C, the underside of the cushion layer 198 can have one or more recesses 198d, which are formed, for example, on the lower surface of the foam. These recesses 198d generally follow the surface topology of one or more of the bladders. As a result, the lower surface also forms a portion 198e. Portion 198e depends from the lower surface to extend between at least two of the bladders, thereby forming a mechanical connection between the cushion layer 198 and the bladder layer.

  As best shown in FIG. 19D, the bladder layer 126 may be selected to form an enlarged bladder 126b at the head end so as to form a right bladder and a left bladder. Included. In addition, each bladder 126b may include a releasable fastener 202, such as a hook and loop (eg, Velcro®) patch, the fastener 202 provided on the underside of the cushion layer 198. Engaging the same patch to further secure the cushion layer 198 in place.

  Referring again to FIGS. 19A-19C, the strap 200 can form a loop around a portion of the cushion layer 198 and the loop is secured to the lower portion of the bladder layer 126, for example. As shown, the cushion layer 198 can include one or more channels 198f formed in the cushion layer to pass through the strap 200 and secure the cushion layer in place.

  In addition, as best shown in FIG. 16 and best seen from FIG. 16, the side 198 g of the cushion layer 198 can be configured to follow the shape of the side of the bladder layer 126. As a result, co-pending US Patent Application No. 61 / 697,010 filed September 5, 2012 and entitled “PATIENT SUPPORT” (attorney docket number STR03A P-405). The cushion layer 198 can also be mechanically coupled to the foam bed. Thus, the cushion system provides a series of layers that are mechanically interconnected or coupled so that the cushion system can work together to provide support to the patient.

  Referring to FIG. 20, reference numeral 210 generally refers to another embodiment of the patient support of the present invention, which is supported on a patient support device 212, which in this particular embodiment is a hospital bed. As shown. However, the patient support device 212 can take other forms other than the hospital bed, such as, but not limited to, long-term care beds, foldable cots, stretchers, operating tables, garni, etc. Can be taken. Further, the patient support device 212 may be a conventional support device that is commercially available and merely provides a support function for the patient support 210.

  For example, the patient support device 212 can include one or more controls integrated within the patient support device 212, which control one or more functions of the patient support 210. Used for. For example, an electrical connector can be provided to establish an electrical connection between a user interface disposed on or integrated with the fence of the patient support device 212. The user interface can take a variety of different forms, such as, but not limited to, a touch screen, a liquid crystal display (LCD), multiple buttons, switches, knobs, etc. Any combination of these elements that allows the operation of the support 210 to be controlled can take the form of a combination. The connection between the user interface and the patient support 210 can take a variety of forms, including a direct electrical cable that extends from the footboard to the patient support 210, eg, By using electrical connectors that electrically connect the user interface to circuits supported on or in the bed frame and / or by wireless communications such as those disclosed in the following references: be able to. In addition, the said disclosed document is the US patent application No. 13 / 802,855 by the same applicant for which it applied on March 14, 2013. This document is filed by Michael Hayes et al. And is entitled "COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS FOR PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATES", the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. For further details illustrating examples of suitable hospital beds, see the beds described in the literature below. The above-mentioned documents include US Pat. No. 8,006,332, US Pat. No. 7,690,059, US Pat. No. 7,805,784, and US Pat. No. 7,962,981. And US Pat. No. 7,861,334. These documents are commonly owned by the Stryer Corporation of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

  Referring to FIG. 20A, a patient support 210 includes a bladder layer 226 having a plurality of bladders 226a, 226b that are applied to the patient's thigh, buttocks, back, and head. Bring support. As described above, the bladder layer 226 is combined with a gel layer that provides support to the patient's buttocks and a foam bed that supports both the bladder layer and the gel layer and provides other functions. Can be used. For further details of suitable gel layers and foam berths, reference is made to the patent application documents incorporated herein and further details that may be optionally selected as set forth below.

  Referring to FIG. 24, the air bag layer 226 may be formed from an upper sheet 228 and a lower sheet 230. As best shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the upper sheet 228 and the lower sheet 230a can be bonded, for example, to form bladders 226a and 226b, and further to form a plurality of segmented zones. They are joined together by an agent or welding. For example, in the illustrated and illustrated embodiment, bladders 226a and 226b include left head and back section zone 232, right head and back section zone 234, left hip section zone 236, and right hip section zone. 238 to be grouped.

  Referring again to FIG. 24, the bladders 226a and 226b are first formed in an expanded configuration, for example by thermoforming, and then joined to the lower sheet 228. When formed in an expanded configuration, each bladder forms a “pod”. The pod-like body is configured with a hexagonal cross section. As a result, these pods can fit more closely together, for example, closer than a rounded or can-shaped air bag, and furthermore, these pods are lined up at the edges. Instead, it can be arranged and configured to be shifted between adjacent air bags instead. This makes it more difficult for the patient to notice the edge of each bladder, as described in the incorporated patent application, thus improving patient comfort.

  Referring to FIG. 22, the bladders 226a and 226b are inflated by a pneumatic system 240 controlled by a control system as described above. In the illustrated and described embodiment, the pneumatic system 240 includes a plurality of supply tubes 242. A supply tube 242 extends below the bladder layer 226 and is connected to and communicates with each of the zone zones of the bladder layer via a coupler 246a. The coupler 246a is connected to an inlet port 248a provided in the air bag layer 226. As a result, each segment zone can be expanded separately and independently. The supply tube 242 is also connected to a postural change bladder under the foam couch. In addition, the control system can include a plurality of sensing tubes 244. These sensing tubes 244 extend below the bladder layer 226 and are connected and communicated to each of the zone zones of the bladder layer via a coupler 246b. The coupler 246b is connected to an inlet port 248a provided in the air bag layer 226. As a result, the pressure in each zone can be measured independently by a sensor mounted remotely from the bladder, for example by a sensor in the control compartment, i.e. the pump box described above. As will be described in more detail below, the bladder layer 226 is adapted to support the supply and sensing tubes and guide them to each zone. Therefore, as desired, the bladder layer can form a retainer for these tubes, which can facilitate assembly of the patient support.

  As best shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the bladder layer 226 can include a plurality of supports 250 for mounting support of the tubes 242 and 244 to the bladder layer 226. For example, the support 250 can be configured by a channel formed or attached to the bottom surface of the bladder layer 226 or to the bottom surface. Suitable supports can be formed from patches of sheet material that are glued or welded to the bottom surface of the bladder layer 226 or to the bottom surface. As best shown in FIG. 25, the support can be formed from circular patches 252 made of, for example, nylon material, which are on the bottom or underside of the bladder layer 226. Or it is made to adhere by the welding part 254 to the bottom part or the lower side, for example to the lower sheet | seat 230. FIG. Alternatively, an additional sheet can be provided and joined to the lower sheet with a support attached to the additional sheet. It should be understood that the support 250 may be used to support the tube 242 and / or the tube 244, and a separate support may be provided for the tube 242 or 244.

  Referring to FIGS. 21, 21A, 21C, and 23, the bladder layer 226 supports the tubes 242 and / or 244 and is optionally selected, but includes a harness portion 260 for holding the tubes. Can be included. For example, the harness part 260 can be formed by an upper sheet, a lower sheet, or both. Alternatively, the harness portion 260 can be formed from a sheet piece that is attached to one or both of the sheets of the air bag layer, for example, by sewing, adhesive or welding.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the harness portion 260 is composed of an extension of one sheet of the bladder layer or an extension of each sheet. The extension is, for example, in the form of a flange 262 and is adapted to support the supply tube. Optionally, the bladder layer upper sheet 228 has a greater thickness than the lower sheet 230, thereby accommodating the stretch that may occur when forming the bladders 226a and 226b. . For example, the top sheet (228) has a thickness in the range of about 1.02-3.05 mm (about 40 / 1000-120 / 1000 inches), about 1.52-0.25 mm (about 60 / 1000-100 / 100). 10,000 inches), and optionally, about 2.03 mm (about 80/1000 inches) thick. The bottom sheet (230) has a thickness in the range of about 0.25 to 0.89 mm (about 10/1000 to 35/1000 inches), about 0.38 to 0.76 mm (about 15/1000 to 30/1000 inches). ) And, optionally, about 0.51-0.64 mm (about 20 / 1000-25 / 1000 inches). In such a way, the flange can be formed from the thicker of the two sheets or from two sheets combined to increase strength.

  As best shown in FIGS. 21A and 21C, the flange 262 can have openings 264 (s). The supply tube can be routed through the opening 264 or can pass through the opening 264. Opening 264 is sized to hold the supply tube in place. For example, the opening (s) can include a pair of slits. The pair of slits are arranged at an interval so as to form a loop portion 266 between the slits, whereby the loop portion holds the tube in place by friction. Optionally, each pair of tube 242 and tube 244 can be supported within the same opening, for example as shown in FIG. 21C. Alternatively, the flange 262 can have different sized openings to support each tube separately.

  As described above, the air bag layer 226 is formed by, for example, two sheets bonded to each other. These sheets can be joined around their respective peripheries and around each of the bladders or pods to form an array with separate bladders. As described in the referenced patent application, at least some regions in the sheet are left unjoined to form fluid passages between some or all of the adjacent bladders (e.g., FIG. 22). As a result, a channel network can be formed in the bladder layer to allow air to flow between at least some of the bladders. This reduces the amount of piping required to inflate the bladder and maintain the pressure in the bladder at a desired pressure value. As will be described later, a plurality of air bags can be grouped together and grouped in that they are in communication with each other through the air passages or pipes described above, so that the air bags form a segmented zone. To do. In addition, as shown in FIG. 21B, the bladder layer 226 includes a plurality of transverse openings 268 that pass through the bladder layer from below the bladder layer to allow air to pass. It is located between the air bags 226a so as to be able to flow.

  As described above, the support 210 has a plurality of supply tubes 242 and a plurality of sensing tubes 244 for delivering air to the bladders 226a and 226b and the repositioning bladder (not shown here). Including a pneumatic system 240. Supply tube 242 can be tethered by bladder layer 226, as described, and thereby directed to a pneumatic system pump. The pump can be supported in a compartment at the foot end of the support on the underside of the gel layer and foam bed as described at P405 and P400. In addition, the sensing tube 244 can be similarly tethered and directed to the sensor and can be mounted within the compartment. The sensor senses the pressure in each zone so as to form part of a closed loop feedback control system. A closed loop feedback control system is described in US patent application Ser. No. 13 / 836,813 entitled “INFLATABLE MATRESS AND CONTROL METHODS” and filed on March 15, 2013, Further details are described. The above references are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

  Thus, the patient support 210, when assembled, may be arbitrarily selected, not only including a cushion layer that provides a pressure redistribution system to improve the support of the patient lying on the support 210. However, it also provides a line management system for the pneumatic tube of the expansion and control system. The patient support 210 can be modified to include one or more bladders in the foot section zone instead of the gel layer, so that the air pressure within these bladders can be It should be understood that monitoring and control can be provided by the same system that controls the section bladders and the thigh and buttocks section bladders.

  Referring to FIGS. 26 to 30, the air bag layer 226 and the gel layer 328 are supported by the foam bed 340. The couch 340 includes a head / body side portion 344 and a foot side portion 346 that are joined together at a joint 342. The joint 342 allows the gel side and foot side portions of the foam bed 340 to be raised relative to the head / torso side portion (or conversely, the head / body side portion is the foot side portion). Configured to allow to be raised against). As best shown in FIG. 28, one side of the joint 342 can include a recessed region having a line management channel 348. Line management channel 348 directs supply tube 242 from air bag layer 226 to air manifold 350, for example, via CPR valve 352. The air manifold 350 and the CPR valve 352 are optionally selected, but are positioned in the control section (or pump box) located at the foot side, directly below the foot end portion of the foam bed. And the line management channel 348 also directs the detector tube 244 to sensors located in the control compartment as well. In addition, the foam bed 340 can include channels 354 (FIG. 28) that extend into each of the sides of the foam bed for line management purposes.

  Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, the joint 342 is formed by a complementary stepped profile that includes a wedge-shaped block 342a on the head / body side portion 344 of the foam couch 340, and foam. Formed by an angled block 342b formed on the foot side portion 346 of the body sleeper 340. These blocks 342a and 342b are connected by a releasable fastener, such as a Velcro® patch 358, so that the foot portion 346 has a head so as to allow access to the control compartment. / Can be separated from the fuselage side portion 344. Further, the joint 342 can form a hinge if at least some of the patches are not connected.

  As best understood from FIGS. 26, 28 and 30, the foot side portion of the joint portion extends over and covers the head / body side portion of the joint portion. Engages closely with the side parts and further supports the gel layer. As a result, the foot-side portion of the joint portion is closely engaged with the air bag of the air bag layer, and when the fasteners are aligned and the fasteners are connected, they are connected to the head / body side portion. The foot side of the joint portion 342 further includes a hinge 346 formed by two sections on the foot side of the joint portion 342. The two sections can be joined by a gel layer 328 via a sheet of nonwoven material and an adhesive interface. The sheet due to the nonwoven material and the adhesive interface acts as a hinge so that the foot side portion 346 can pivot about the hinge 345 and then over the head / body side portion 344. It can be turned over (Figure 30). In order to form the hinge, the sheet, which is by a nonwoven material and an adhesive coating or adhesive layer and which adheres the gel layer 328 to the foot side portion of the foam bed, is divided into two sections. And one section of the sheet is attached to the gel layer and the first section of the foot portion of the foam bed, and the other section of the sheet is attached to the foot of the gel layer and foam bed. Attached to the second section of the side portion. As a result, the gel layer can be folded and therefore form a hinge (see FIG. 30).

  As described above, the air blowing unit (s) can be supported within the foam bed, and further can be supported within a recess formed between the block 342a and the block 342b. Optionally, the foam couch foot portion 346 may incorporate a rigid support 360, for example in the form of plastic flanged channels. The channel aligns with and covers the blower above the blower, thereby protecting the blower from interference from the foam. In addition, the channels can be connected to each other by a web (see FIG. 30), whereby the channels extend through the joint from the head / body side portion of the foam bed to below the foot portion. It also provides protection for the pipes that are used. For further details of the gel layer 328 and bed 340, see the gel layer and foam bed described above.

  Thus, the present invention provides a patient support that provides an inflatable support bladder on a mattress in combination with an optional line management system that facilitates assembly and handling of the patient support, The inflatable support bladder improves sinking to the surface of the patient mattress and therefore improves pressure distribution to the patient. It has been found that having an independent and separate array of bladders can achieve a more balanced contact (see FIG. 10) in both the x and y axes. Furthermore, if there is a unit type feature by the supporting air bag, the necessity of piping can be remarkably reduced, and the necessity of some functions can be eliminated.

  While several forms of the invention have been illustrated and described, those skilled in the art will recognize other modifications and variations. Therefore, the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are for illustrative purposes only and are defined by the claims as interpreted under the principles of patent law, including doctrine of equivalents. It should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Claims (59)

In patient support,
A plurality of cushion layers, wherein the plurality of cushion layers are arranged so that support surfaces of the plurality of cushion layers when a load is not applied are generally disposed in one plane; A support that is disposed in a state of being combined with each of the adjacent cushion layers, and each of the cushion layers provides lateral and longitudinal support to each of the adjacent cushion layers of each of the cushion layers.   The support according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of cushion layers include an air bag layer.   The support according to claim 1, wherein the cushion layer includes a gel layer.   The at least one of the cushion layers includes a transverse opening that allows air to pass through the at least one cushion layer to direct airflow through the at least one cushion layer. Support.   The support according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a plurality of inflatable air bags and a gel layer adjacent to the inflatable air bags.   The support according to claim 5, wherein the gel layer is combined with the adjacent air bags among the inflatable air bags.   The support according to claim 5, wherein each of the air bags has a hexagonal cross section.   The support according to claim 7, wherein the gel layer includes a plurality of hexagonal gel footings.   9. A support according to claim 8, wherein each of the gel footings is separated from each adjacent gel footing of the gel footing.   The support according to claim 8 or 9, wherein each of the gel footings is internally reinforced by a plurality of hexagonal gel wall structures.   The support according to claim 1, wherein the cushion layer is supported on a foam bed.   The support according to claim 11, further comprising a postural change air bag disposed under the foam bed.   13. A support according to claim 12, wherein the foam bed comprises at least two hinged panels to allow patient repositioning supported on the patient support.   The foam bed includes a plurality of channels extending through the foam bed so as to direct air through the foam bed and into at least one of the cushion layers. The support according to 1.   The support of claim 1, wherein the at least one cushion layer comprises an inflatable bladder layer. In patient support,
A cushion layer;
A left-side posture change air bag and a right-side posture change air bag under the cushion layer;
With a cover,
The cover includes a flexible fabric upper panel extending over the cushion layer and two side panels connected to the upper panel, each of the side panels including: The cushion layer extends along the side portion of the cushion layer and is fixed on the bottom side of the cushion layer, and the side panel has the cushion layer in a case where the posture change is performed by, for example, one of the posture change air bags. Even when subjected to a change in the surface topology of the cushion layer, the upper panel is configured to shrink or expand to accommodate variations in the height of the cushion layer so as to allow the upper panel to remain generally smooth. A patient support.   The patient support according to claim 16, wherein the cushion layer includes a cushion system, and the cushion system includes an air bag layer.   17. A patient support according to claim 16, wherein the side panel is secured on the bottom side of the cushion layer by a bottom panel that extends below the bottom side of the cushion layer. In patient support,
A cushion layer;
A cover having an upper portion extending so as to cover the cushion layer and two side portions connected to the upper portion;
The two side parts extend along the side part of the cushion layer and are fixed on the bottom side of the cushion layer, and the two side parts change the surface topology of the cushion layer. A patient support configured to shrink or expand to accommodate variations in the height of the cushion layer to allow the upper portion to remain generally smooth even when receiving.   20. The patient support of claim 19, wherein the cover is formed from a top panel, the top panel forms the top, and the two sides are formed by side panels that are connected to the top panel. .   21. A patient support according to claim 20, wherein the cover further includes a bottom panel coupled to the side panel.   The patient support according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the side or the side panel is formed from a liquid-impermeable fabric.   23. A patient support according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the upper panel is formed from a liquid impermeable material. In patient support,
Mattress and
With a cover,
The cover includes an upper panel of flexible fabric that extends to cover the top side of the mattress, a lower panel that extends under the bottom side of the mattress, and the upper panel and the lower panel. An end panel and a side panel to be joined, each of the side panels extending along each side of the mattress and having an upper edge and a lower edge, wherein the upper edge is the Connected to an upper panel, the lower edge is connected to the lower panel, the side panel is configured to prevent liquid from entering the mattress, and the side panel further includes the upper edge and the A variation in the height of the mattress to allow the upper panel to maintain generally smoothness even when the mattress is subject to changes in the surface topology of the mattress. As away divided by that and / or divided separately to adapt, and patient support.   25. A patient support according to claim 24, wherein the cover comprises a zipper.   Each of the side panels includes an upper side panel portion and a lower side panel portion, the upper side panel portion is connected to the upper panel, the lower panel portion is connected to the lower panel, and the zipper 26. A patient support according to claim 25, wherein the upper side panel portion and the lower side panel portion are joined.   27. The patient support of claim 26, wherein each of the upper side panel portions includes a fabric flap that extends to cover the zipper when the zipper is closed.   28. A patient support according to claim 27, wherein each flap is formed by a fabric loop.   Each of the upper side panel portions includes a fold portion, the fold portion being a side portion of the mattress adjacent to the fold portion, for example when the mattress is raised so as to change the position of the patient. 27. A patient support according to claim 26, wherein the fold extends at least partially from an unexpanded configuration to an expanded configuration when the height of the patient increases.   Each of the folds is biased to an unexpanded configuration, so that if the mattress increases in height, at least a portion of one of the folds will at least partially expand the fold. 30. The patient support of claim 29, wherein one of the folds generally returns to an unexpanded configuration when the mattress decreases in height.   31. A patient support according to claim 30, wherein each of the folds can be biased to an unexpanded configuration by one or more elastic strands.   32. A patient support according to claim 31, wherein one or more strands extend between the upper panel and the lower panel.   33. A patient support according to any one of claims 24 to 32, wherein the mattress includes a plurality of inflatable bladders.   34. A patient support according to claim 33, wherein the inflatable bladder is supported on a foam couch.   35. A patient support according to claim 33 or 34, further comprising a repositioning bladder positioned within the cover under the bladder. In patient support,
A mattress having a head end and a foot end and including a plurality of inflatable bladders;
A cushion layer that forms a head cushion over the head end of the mattress for a patient's head that is mechanically coupled to the top of the bladder and lying on the patient support A patient support comprising a cushion layer forming a cradle-shaped receiving part.   37. A patient support according to claim 36, wherein the mattress further includes a foam shaker receiving portion, the shaker receiving portion being mechanically coupled to the cushion layer.   37. A patient support according to claim 36, wherein the mattress further comprises a gel layer at the foot end of the patient support.   The mattress further includes a left side change bladder and a right side change bladder, and the cushion layer has a raised right portion and a raised left portion for supporting the patient's head while changing posture. 37. A patient support according to claim 36.   37. A patient support according to claim 36, wherein the cushion layer is secured to the bladder layer by at least one strap.   The cushion layer includes a lower surface and at least one recess on the lower surface, the air bag layer has a plurality of air bags, and each of the air bags has a molded upper surface; The recess is shaped to generally conform to the molded upper surface of at least one of the bladders, and at least a portion of the lower surface extends between two of the bladders, thereby 37. A patient support according to claim 36, mechanically coupling the cushion layer to the bladder in at least one direction.   The patient support according to claim 41, wherein the cushion layer includes a plurality of the recesses. In patient support,
An air bag layer having a plurality of air bags;
A patient support comprising a pneumatic system having a plurality of tubes supported and guided by the bladder layer.   44. A patient support according to claim 43, wherein the tube comprises a supply tube.   44. A patient support according to claim 43, wherein the tube comprises a sensing tube.   46. A patient support according to claim 45, wherein the tube comprises a sensing tube and a supply tube.   44. A patient support according to claim 43, wherein the support comprises a channel.   44. A patient support according to claim 43, wherein the support is formed from a patch of sheet material attached to or on the bottom surface of the bladder layer.   49. A patient support according to claim 48, wherein the patch is attached to the bottom surface of the bladder layer.   44. A patient support according to claim 43, wherein the bladder layer comprises at least two segment zones, each segment zone being configured to be separately inflatable.   44. The patient support according to claim 43, wherein the air bag layer includes a harness portion for attaching the tube.   52. A patient support according to claim 51, wherein the harness portion constitutes a flange portion.   53. The patient support according to claim 52, wherein the air bag includes an upper seat and a lower seat, and the harness portion constitutes a part of the upper seat and / or the lower seat.   The bladder layer includes an array of bladders and a plurality of transverse openings, the plurality of transverse openings allowing air to pass through the bladder layer to direct an air flow through the bladder layer. 44. A patient support according to claim 43, which makes it possible.   44. A patient support according to claim 43, wherein each of the bladders has a hexagonal cross section. In patient support,
A foam bed having a first section and a second section;
A gel layer supported on the foam bed and joined to the foam bed;
The support, wherein the gel bladder layer forms a hinge for the two sections.   57. The support of claim 56, wherein the foam couch includes a third section, and the third section supports an air bag layer.   58. The support of claim 57, wherein the third section is removably coupled to the second section, for example by a Velcro strip.   58. The support of claim 57, wherein the third section is removably coupled to the second section at a joint, and the joint forms a line management channel.

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