EP4066690A1 - Pressure redistribution mattress - Google Patents
Pressure redistribution mattress Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP4066690A1 EP4066690A1 EP21166020.4A EP21166020A EP4066690A1 EP 4066690 A1 EP4066690 A1 EP 4066690A1 EP 21166020 A EP21166020 A EP 21166020A EP 4066690 A1 EP4066690 A1 EP 4066690A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- mattress
- pressure redistribution
- supporting
- support structure
- inner support
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
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- 125000006850 spacer group Chemical group 0.000 claims abstract description 27
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 19
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 230000003319 supportive effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 13
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 claims description 12
- 229920005830 Polyurethane Foam Polymers 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000011496 polyurethane foam Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000006261 foam material Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 229920002725 thermoplastic elastomer Polymers 0.000 claims description 6
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000009825 accumulation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000000470 constituent Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 241000894006 Bacteria Species 0.000 description 1
- 208000004210 Pressure Ulcer Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 238000010521 absorption reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001010 compromised effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000011109 contamination Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001627 detrimental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000605 extraction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002452 interceptive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002955 isolation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002787 reinforcement Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007493 shaping process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004753 textile Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
- A47C27/08—Fluid mattresses or cushions
- A47C27/081—Fluid mattresses or cushions of pneumatic type
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C21/00—Attachments for beds, e.g. sheet holders, bed-cover holders; Ventilating, cooling or heating means in connection with bedsteads or mattresses
- A47C21/04—Devices for ventilating, cooling or heating
- A47C21/042—Devices for ventilating, cooling or heating for ventilating or cooling
- A47C21/046—Devices for ventilating, cooling or heating for ventilating or cooling without active means, e.g. with openings or heat conductors
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
- A47C27/14—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas with foamed material inlays
- A47C27/18—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas with foamed material inlays in combination with inflatable bodies
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C27/00—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas
- A47C27/22—Spring, stuffed or fluid mattresses or cushions specially adapted for chairs, beds or sofas with both fibrous and foamed material inlays
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C31/00—Details or accessories for chairs, beds, or the like, not provided for in other groups of this subclass, e.g. upholstery fasteners, mattress protectors, stretching devices for mattress nets
- A47C31/006—Use of three-dimensional fabrics
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to a pressure redistribution mattress comprising an inner support structure housing a pressure redistribution assembly including a plurality of air cells connected by means of a pressure redistribution system.
- Such pressure redistribution mattresses are known as such in the art, for instance from International (PCT) Publication No. WO 00/62648 A1 and U.S. Patent No. US 6,269,505 B1 .
- Such mattresses conventionally make use of a pressure redistribution assembly including a plurality of juxtaposed air cells arranged e.g. in a longitudinal and/or transversal configuration, i.e. with each air cell extending along a length or a width of the mattress.
- the juxtaposition of air cells is however detrimental in that it negatively affects circulation of air and moisture in the mattress, the air cell assembly acting in effect as a barrier against such air and moisture circulation.
- a general aim of the invention is to provide an improved pressure redistribution mattress.
- an aim of the present invention is to provide such a solution that ensures efficient pressure redistribution as well as improved microclimate management.
- Another aim of the invention is to provide such a solution that achieves superior performance in terms of temperature and humidity management.
- a further aim of the invention is to provide such a solution that provides optimal conform for the patient.
- Yet another aim of the invention is to provide such a solution which remains reasonably simple and cost-efficient to produce.
- Still another aim of the invention is to provide such a solution which facilitates cleaning and maintenance operations.
- a pressure redistribution mattress according to claim 1, namely such a mattress comprising an inner support structure housing a pressure redistribution assembly including a plurality of air cells connected by means of a pressure redistribution system.
- the air cells are spaced apart from one another to form gaps between the air cells, and the gaps are filled with supporting spacers formed of an open-structured, non-foam supportive material allowing circulation of air and moisture.
- the inner support structure comprises a flexible supporting frame member with a longitudinal space configured and dimensioned to receive the pressure redistribution assembly and supporting spacers.
- the flexible supporting frame member preferably includes a pair of longitudinal sidewalls encasing the pressure redistribution assembly and supporting spacers, a central portion of each longitudinal sidewall being provided with at least one transversal aperture that ensures circulation of air and moisture between the longitudinal space and lateral sides of the mattress.
- Each transversal aperture may advantageously consist of a transversal cut-out formed in an upper side of each longitudinal sidewall.
- the aforementioned flexible supporting frame member may be made of a foam material, such as a polyurethane foam.
- the inner support structure comprises a supporting layer overlying the pressure redistribution assembly and supporting spacers.
- the supporting layer may likewise be made of an open-structured, non-foam supportive material allowing circulation of air and moisture.
- the supporting layer extends in the mattress apart from a head section and a foot section of the mattress.
- the supporting layer may especially extend, in the width direction, all the way between the lateral sides of the mattress.
- the open-structured, non-foam supportive material may in particular advantageously consist of a three-dimensional elastic arrangement of polymer filaments, especially filaments made of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
- TPE thermoplastic elastomer
- the inner support structure comprises a heel zone supporting element provided in a foot section of the mattress.
- the heel zone supporting element includes an upper supporting element made of spacer fabrics.
- the inner support structure comprises a soft top layer provided in a top portion of the inner support structure, which soft top layer preferably extends over the entire top portion of the inner support structure apart from a head section of the mattress.
- the inner support structure further comprises a head zone supporting element provided in a head section of the mattress.
- the head zone supporting element is made of a foam material, such as a polyurethane foam, and includes a castellated upper surface.
- the air cells are transverse air cells extending in a width direction of the mattress and the supporting spacers are transverse supporting spacers filling the gaps between the transverse air cells.
- the mattress may additionally comprise a removable cover housing the inner support structure, which removable cover is preferably made of an air-permeable, multi-directional stretch fabric reducing shear and friction, such as a polyurethane coated nylon fabric.
- FIG. 1 a pressure redistribution mattress, designated globally by reference numeral 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- Mattress 1 includes a removable cover 10 housing an inner support structure 100, not visible in Figure 1 , but partly visible in Figures 1A and 1B , and shown entirely in Figure 1C .
- Figures 1A-1C show the inner support structure 100 and removable cover 10 with selected portions thereof removed for the purpose of illustration and explanation.
- Reference signs 1H, 1F and 1L in Figures 1 and 1A-C respectively designate a head section, a foot section and lateral sides of the mattress 1.
- the removable cover 10 is preferably made of an air-permeable, multi-directional stretch fabric reducing shear and friction, such as a polyurethane coated nylon fabric. Other cover materials could be contemplated.
- the inner support structure 100 houses a pressure redistribution assembly 200 including a plurality of (here eight) air cells 210, here arranged in a transversal manner, that are connected by means of a pressure redistribution system. Only part of the pressure redistribution assembly 200 is visible in Figures 1A-C .
- the pressure redistribution assembly 200 is schematically shown in isolation in Figures 2 and 2A where the pressure redistribution system is designated by reference numeral 250.
- each air cell 210 in essence consists of a cushioning device comprising a load-bearing envelope that includes an intake port and a pressure release port allowing air to respectively enter or exit the load-bearing envelope as a function of load applied thereon.
- This load-bearing envelope contains a resilient inner member (made e.g. of a polyurethane foam) that has the ability to deform under load and regain its original form in the absence of load, thus allowing air to exit or be drawn into the load-bearing envelope.
- each air cell 210 includes a T-connector 210A acting as the intake and pressure release ports, which T-connector 210A is connected to tubing elements 250A of the pressure redistribution system 250, thus allowing automatic pressure redistribution amongst the air cells 210 depending on the load applied thereon.
- Reference signs 250B and 250C in Figures 2 and 2A respectively designate intake valves and air filters provided at both ends of the pressure redistribution system 250 to allow air to be drawn into the system from the environment.
- Reference sign 250D in Figure 2 designates a pressure release valve of the pressure redistribution system 250 designed to allow excess pressure to be released into the environment.
- the pressure redistribution assembly 200 shown in Figures 1 , 1A-C , 2 and 2A is in effect a non-powered assembly and that pressure redistribution amongst the air cells therefore occurs solely depending on the load applied on the top surface of the mattress 1.
- the pressure redistribution system 250 would typically be connected to an air pump and may be modified to allow air to be selectively introduced into or drawn out of selected air cells 210.
- the configuration of the relevant pressure redistribution system may in effect differ from the illustrated configuration and is not as such critical to the implementation of the present invention.
- a key aspect of the mattress in accordance with the present invention resides in the fact that the air cells 210 are spaced apart from one another to form (here transversal) gaps 210a between the air cells 210, as is visible e.g. in Figures 1A-C , 2 and 2A (see also Figures 3 and 3A which show the inner support structure 100 with upper layers 135, 140, 145 removed for the sake of illustration). This provides room for air and moisture to circulate between the air cells 210, which vastly improves microclimate management.
- FIG. 1A-C , 3 and 3A Another key aspect of the mattress according to the invention resides in the fact that the gaps 210a are filled with supporting spacers 115 (as shown in Figures 1A-C , 3 and 3A ) that are formed of an open-structured, non-foam supportive material allowing circulation of air and moisture.
- supporting spacers 115 as shown in Figures 1A-C , 3 and 3A .
- conventional foam material such as polyurethane foam
- the inner support structure 100 comprises a flexible supporting frame member 110 with a longitudinal space 110a configured and dimensioned to receive the pressure redistribution assembly 200 and supporting spacers 115. More specifically, the flexible supporting frame member 110 includes a pair of longitudinal sidewalls 110L encasing the pressure redistribution assembly 200 and supporting spacers 115, which longitudinal sidewalls 110L provide adequate structural integrity and reinforcement of the lateral sides 1L of the mattress 1.
- each longitudinal sidewall 110L is advantageously provided with at least one transversal aperture 110b that ensures circulation of air and moisture between the longitudinal space 110a and the lateral sides 1L of the mattress 1.
- transversal apertures 110b are provided, namely as transversal cut-outs 110b formed in an upper side of each longitudinal sidewall 110L.
- the flexible supporting frame member 110 may be made of a foam material, such as a polyurethane foam. While use of a foam material is contemplated, microclimate management is not compromised as air and moisture are allowed to circulate between the longitudinal space 110a and the lateral sides 1L of the mattress 1 through the transversal cut-outs 110b. As a matter of fact, the provision of the cut-outs 110b allows improved air and moisture circulation owing to the resulting Venturi effect created by the cut-outs 110b.
- Figures 1A-C also show that the inner support structure 100 preferably further comprises a supporting layer 140 overlying the pressure redistribution assembly 200 and the supporting spacers 115.
- a supporting layer 140 is also visible in the photographic illustration of Figure 4 .
- the supporting layer 140 is likewise made of an open-structured, non-foam supportive material allowing circulation of air and moisture.
- the supporting layer 140 advantageously extends in the mattress 1 apart from the head section 1H and the foot section 1F of the mattress 1, and preferably extends, in the width direction, all the way between the lateral sides 1L of the mattress 1. Accordingly, air and moisture are also allowed to circulate via the supporting layer 140, which favours extraction of heat and humidity, thus further improving microclimate management.
- the open-structured, non-foam supportive material used as a constituent of the aforementioned supporting spacers 115 and supporting layer 140 consists of a three-dimensional elastic arrangement of polymer filaments, especially filaments made of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), as shown in the photographic illustration of Figure 5 .
- TPE thermoplastic elastomer
- Such a material is commercially available on the market, including e.g. from company Enkev B.V. ( www.enkev.com ) under the product designation Labyrinth ® 100 (Labyrinth ® being a registered trademark of Enkev B.V.).
- This material may be produced by extruding molten polymer and shaping/molding the resulting monofilaments into desired three-dimensional structures of fused monofilaments.
- the aforementioned supporting spacers 115 and supporting layer 140 could in effect form a single integral supporting structure.
- the use of individual elements may however be advantageous in terms of modularity and the ability to replace only selected elements in case of need.
- a dedicated heel zone supporting element 130/135 is preferably provided in the foot section 1F of mattress 1.
- this heel zone supporting element 130/135 includes a bottom supporting element 130 housed within the longitudinal space 110a of the flexible frame member 110 and, more importantly, an upper supporting element 135 that is made of spacer fabrics.
- Spacer fabrics are known as such in the art and basically consist of two textile sheets joined and separated by distance fibres (such as polyester fibres) to offer high absorption capacities, which is particularly useful to transfer weight away from the vulnerable heel area. Spacer fabrics are commercially available on the market, e.g. from company Essedea GmbH & Co. KG ( www.essedea.de ) under the product designation 3DEA ® (3DEA ® being a registered trademark of Heinz-Willy Essers).
- the flexible frame member 110 and bottom supporting element 130 may advantageously exhibit a sloped configuration, reducing in thickness towards the end of the mattress 1, to create a sloped heel zone 1F with a slight angle of the order of e.g. 5 degrees.
- a dedicated head zone supporting element 120 is likewise preferably provided.
- this head zone supporting element 120 is made of a foam material (such as polyurethane foam) and is partly housed within the longitudinal space 110a of the flexible frame member 110.
- This supporting element 120 advantageously includes a castellated upper surface 120A that provides extra comfort and a certain level of additional pressure redistribution for the patient's head.
- the inner support structure 100 additionally comprises a soft top layer 145 provided in a top portion of the inner support structure 100.
- this soft top layer 145 extends over the entire top portion of the inner support structure 110 apart from the head section 1H of the mattress 1.
- the soft top layer 145 overlies the supporting layer 140 and the upper supporting element 135 provided in the heel zone.
- the soft top layer 145 is mainly meant to act as a soft, responsive top layer designed to envelop the patient for maximum comfort.
- This soft top layer 145 may in particular consist of non-woven polyester fibres.
- pressure redistribution mattress depicted in the appended drawings is designed to allow non-powered pressure redistribution, without the need for a power unit, one could nevertheless contemplate applying the same principle to a powered pressure redistribution mattress, if desired.
- pressure redistribution mattress depicted in the appended drawings includes eight air cells arranged in a transversal manner
- the pressure redistribution mattress could include any number of air cells arranged in a longitudinal and/or transversal manner.
- a heel zone supporting element and a head zone supporting element as described above is not essential, although preferred as it brings further benefits to the patient.
- the same is basically true with respect to the provision of the supporting layer and soft top layer which may potentially be replaced by any other adequate layer or layers.
- the provision of the relevant supporting layer and soft top layer nevertheless remains a favoured and preferred solution that brings further benefits in terms of microclimate management and comfort for the patient.
Landscapes
- Mattresses And Other Support Structures For Chairs And Beds (AREA)
- Invalid Beds And Related Equipment (AREA)
Abstract
There is described a pressure redistribution mattress (1) comprising an inner support structure (100) housing a pressure redistribution assembly (200) including a plurality of air cells (210) connected by means of a pressure redistribution system (250). The air cells (210) are spaced apart from one another to form gaps (210a) between the air cells (210) and the gaps (210a) are filled with supporting spacers (115) formed of an open-structured, non-foam supportive material allowing circulation of air and moisture.
Description
- The present invention generally relates to a pressure redistribution mattress comprising an inner support structure housing a pressure redistribution assembly including a plurality of air cells connected by means of a pressure redistribution system.
- Such pressure redistribution mattresses are known as such in the art, for instance from International (PCT) Publication No.
WO 00/62648 A1 US 6,269,505 B1 . Such mattresses conventionally make use of a pressure redistribution assembly including a plurality of juxtaposed air cells arranged e.g. in a longitudinal and/or transversal configuration, i.e. with each air cell extending along a length or a width of the mattress. The juxtaposition of air cells is however detrimental in that it negatively affects circulation of air and moisture in the mattress, the air cell assembly acting in effect as a barrier against such air and moisture circulation. This inherently leads to issues in terms of accumulation of heat and humidity, which becomes problematic from a microclimate perspective as such accumulation may lead to the occurrence of pressure ulcers if not appropriately managed. This is also problematic from a hygienic perspective as such accumulation of heat and moisture favours the development of bacteria and may lead to contamination of the mattress' inner support structure, which inevitably requires regular cleaning operations, if not replacement of mattress components that are irreversibly damaged. - Other known mattresses make use of an inner support structure consisting of one or more foam elements, made e.g. of polyurethane. Such foam elements may exhibit a structured upper surface as for instance disclosed in U.S. Patent No.
US 5,671,492 A . Other more elaborated mattresses make use of foam elements with a castellated upper surface designed to improve comfort for the patient and ensure some level of pressure redistribution. The main disadvantage of polyurethane foam however resides in its relatively poor ability to allow circulation of air and humidity. - The aforementioned known solutions are not therefore fully satisfactory, and there accordingly remains a need for an improved solution.
- A general aim of the invention is to provide an improved pressure redistribution mattress.
- More specifically, an aim of the present invention is to provide such a solution that ensures efficient pressure redistribution as well as improved microclimate management.
- Another aim of the invention is to provide such a solution that achieves superior performance in terms of temperature and humidity management.
- A further aim of the invention is to provide such a solution that provides optimal conform for the patient.
- Yet another aim of the invention is to provide such a solution which remains reasonably simple and cost-efficient to produce.
- Still another aim of the invention is to provide such a solution which facilitates cleaning and maintenance operations.
- These aims are achieved thanks to the solutions defined in the claims.
- In accordance with the invention, there is provided a pressure redistribution mattress according to
claim 1, namely such a mattress comprising an inner support structure housing a pressure redistribution assembly including a plurality of air cells connected by means of a pressure redistribution system. According to the invention, the air cells are spaced apart from one another to form gaps between the air cells, and the gaps are filled with supporting spacers formed of an open-structured, non-foam supportive material allowing circulation of air and moisture. - By way of preference, the inner support structure comprises a flexible supporting frame member with a longitudinal space configured and dimensioned to receive the pressure redistribution assembly and supporting spacers. In this context, the flexible supporting frame member preferably includes a pair of longitudinal sidewalls encasing the pressure redistribution assembly and supporting spacers, a central portion of each longitudinal sidewall being provided with at least one transversal aperture that ensures circulation of air and moisture between the longitudinal space and lateral sides of the mattress. Each transversal aperture may advantageously consist of a transversal cut-out formed in an upper side of each longitudinal sidewall.
- The aforementioned flexible supporting frame member may be made of a foam material, such as a polyurethane foam.
- In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the inner support structure comprises a supporting layer overlying the pressure redistribution assembly and supporting spacers. The supporting layer may likewise be made of an open-structured, non-foam supportive material allowing circulation of air and moisture. By way of preference, the supporting layer extends in the mattress apart from a head section and a foot section of the mattress. The supporting layer may especially extend, in the width direction, all the way between the lateral sides of the mattress.
- The open-structured, non-foam supportive material may in particular advantageously consist of a three-dimensional elastic arrangement of polymer filaments, especially filaments made of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
- In accordance with another embodiment, the inner support structure comprises a heel zone supporting element provided in a foot section of the mattress. By way of preference, the heel zone supporting element includes an upper supporting element made of spacer fabrics.
- In accordance with a further embodiment, the inner support structure comprises a soft top layer provided in a top portion of the inner support structure, which soft top layer preferably extends over the entire top portion of the inner support structure apart from a head section of the mattress.
- In accordance with yet another embodiment, the inner support structure further comprises a head zone supporting element provided in a head section of the mattress. By way of preference, the head zone supporting element is made of a foam material, such as a polyurethane foam, and includes a castellated upper surface.
- By way of preference, the air cells are transverse air cells extending in a width direction of the mattress and the supporting spacers are transverse supporting spacers filling the gaps between the transverse air cells.
- Furthermore, the mattress may additionally comprise a removable cover housing the inner support structure, which removable cover is preferably made of an air-permeable, multi-directional stretch fabric reducing shear and friction, such as a polyurethane coated nylon fabric.
- Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are discussed below.
- Other features and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly from reading the following detailed description of embodiments of the invention which are presented solely by way of non-restrictive examples and illustrated by the attached drawings in which:
-
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a pressure redistribution mattress in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; -
Figure 1A is a perspective view of the pressure redistribution mattress ofFigure 1 with portions thereof removed to reveal the inner support structure of the mattress; -
Figure 1B is a perspective view of the pressure redistribution mattress ofFigure 1A shown from a different viewing angle; -
Figure 1C is a perspective view of the inner support structure of the pressure redistribution mattress ofFigure 1B with a mattress cover entirely removed; -
Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a pressure redistribution assembly forming a constituent of the pressure redistribution mattress ofFigures 1 and1A-C ; -
Figure 2A is a schematic top view of the pressure redistribution assembly ofFigure 2 ; -
Figure 3 is a photographic illustration of part of the inner support structure of the pressure redistribution mattress ofFigures 1 and1A-C with upper layers removed for the sake of illustration; -
Figure 3A is an enlarged view of the photographic illustration ofFigure 3 showing a central portion of the inner support structure; -
Figure 4 is a photographic illustration of a side view of the central portion of the inner support structure with the upper layers; and -
Figure 5 is a photographic illustration of an enlarged portion of an open-structured, non-foam supportive material used as a constituent of parts of the inner support structure in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. - The present invention will be described in relation to various illustrative embodiments. It shall be understood that the scope of the invention encompasses all combinations and sub-combinations of the features of the embodiments disclosed herein.
- As described herein, when two or more parts or components are described as being connected, secured or coupled to one another, they can be so connected, secured or coupled directly to each other or through one or more intermediary parts.
- More specifically, the invention will be described in relation to various embodiments of a pressure redistribution mattress, as depicted in
Figures 1 to 5 . - Referring to the illustrations of
Figures 1 and1A-C , there is shown a pressure redistribution mattress, designated globally byreference numeral 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.Mattress 1 includes aremovable cover 10 housing aninner support structure 100, not visible inFigure 1 , but partly visible inFigures 1A and1B , and shown entirely inFigure 1C .Figures 1A-1C show theinner support structure 100 andremovable cover 10 with selected portions thereof removed for the purpose of illustration and explanation.Reference signs Figures 1 and1A-C respectively designate a head section, a foot section and lateral sides of themattress 1. - The
removable cover 10 is preferably made of an air-permeable, multi-directional stretch fabric reducing shear and friction, such as a polyurethane coated nylon fabric. Other cover materials could be contemplated. - The
inner support structure 100 houses apressure redistribution assembly 200 including a plurality of (here eight)air cells 210, here arranged in a transversal manner, that are connected by means of a pressure redistribution system. Only part of thepressure redistribution assembly 200 is visible inFigures 1A-C . Thepressure redistribution assembly 200 is schematically shown in isolation inFigures 2 and 2A where the pressure redistribution system is designated byreference numeral 250. - The structure of each
air cell 210 is known as such in the art, for instance from the disclosure of U.S. Patent No.US 5,634,224 A , which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. It suffices to understand that eachair cell 210 in essence consists of a cushioning device comprising a load-bearing envelope that includes an intake port and a pressure release port allowing air to respectively enter or exit the load-bearing envelope as a function of load applied thereon. This load-bearing envelope contains a resilient inner member (made e.g. of a polyurethane foam) that has the ability to deform under load and regain its original form in the absence of load, thus allowing air to exit or be drawn into the load-bearing envelope. - In the example illustrated in
Figures 2 and 2A , eachair cell 210 includes a T-connector 210A acting as the intake and pressure release ports, which T-connector 210A is connected totubing elements 250A of thepressure redistribution system 250, thus allowing automatic pressure redistribution amongst theair cells 210 depending on the load applied thereon. Reference signs 250B and 250C inFigures 2 and 2A respectively designate intake valves and air filters provided at both ends of thepressure redistribution system 250 to allow air to be drawn into the system from the environment.Reference sign 250D inFigure 2 designates a pressure release valve of thepressure redistribution system 250 designed to allow excess pressure to be released into the environment. - One will appreciate that the
pressure redistribution assembly 200 shown inFigures 1 ,1A-C ,2 and 2A is in effect a non-powered assembly and that pressure redistribution amongst the air cells therefore occurs solely depending on the load applied on the top surface of themattress 1. In other embodiments, one could contemplate using a powered assembly, in which case thepressure redistribution system 250 would typically be connected to an air pump and may be modified to allow air to be selectively introduced into or drawn out of selectedair cells 210. In other words, the configuration of the relevant pressure redistribution system may in effect differ from the illustrated configuration and is not as such critical to the implementation of the present invention. - A key aspect of the mattress in accordance with the present invention resides in the fact that the
air cells 210 are spaced apart from one another to form (here transversal)gaps 210a between theair cells 210, as is visible e.g. inFigures 1A-C ,2 and 2A (see alsoFigures 3 and3A which show theinner support structure 100 withupper layers air cells 210, which vastly improves microclimate management. - Another key aspect of the mattress according to the invention resides in the fact that the
gaps 210a are filled with supporting spacers 115 (as shown inFigures 1A-C ,3 and3A ) that are formed of an open-structured, non-foam supportive material allowing circulation of air and moisture. It should therefore be understood that conventional foam material, such as polyurethane foam, is not used in respect of the aforementioned supportingspacers 115, as such conventional material would impair proper circulation of air and moisture, and actually has a tendency to trap humidity, which is not desired. - Thanks to the invention, optimal circulation of air and moisture is ensured between the
air cells 210, without compromising support and comfort for the patient or interfering with the operation of thepressure redistribution assembly 200. - Referring again to the embodiment shown in
Figures 1A-C , theinner support structure 100 comprises a flexible supportingframe member 110 with alongitudinal space 110a configured and dimensioned to receive thepressure redistribution assembly 200 and supportingspacers 115. More specifically, the flexible supportingframe member 110 includes a pair oflongitudinal sidewalls 110L encasing thepressure redistribution assembly 200 and supportingspacers 115, whichlongitudinal sidewalls 110L provide adequate structural integrity and reinforcement of thelateral sides 1L of themattress 1. - As shown in
Figures 1A-C (andFigures 3 ,3A and4 ), a central portion of eachlongitudinal sidewall 110L is advantageously provided with at least onetransversal aperture 110b that ensures circulation of air and moisture between thelongitudinal space 110a and the lateral sides 1L of themattress 1. In the illustrated example, three suchtransversal apertures 110b are provided, namely as transversal cut-outs 110b formed in an upper side of eachlongitudinal sidewall 110L. - The flexible supporting
frame member 110 may be made of a foam material, such as a polyurethane foam. While use of a foam material is contemplated, microclimate management is not compromised as air and moisture are allowed to circulate between thelongitudinal space 110a and the lateral sides 1L of themattress 1 through the transversal cut-outs 110b. As a matter of fact, the provision of the cut-outs 110b allows improved air and moisture circulation owing to the resulting Venturi effect created by the cut-outs 110b. -
Figures 1A-C also show that theinner support structure 100 preferably further comprises a supportinglayer 140 overlying thepressure redistribution assembly 200 and the supportingspacers 115. Such supportinglayer 140 is also visible in the photographic illustration ofFigure 4 . In the illustrated embodiment, the supportinglayer 140 is likewise made of an open-structured, non-foam supportive material allowing circulation of air and moisture. - The supporting
layer 140 advantageously extends in themattress 1 apart from thehead section 1H and thefoot section 1F of themattress 1, and preferably extends, in the width direction, all the way between thelateral sides 1L of themattress 1. Accordingly, air and moisture are also allowed to circulate via the supportinglayer 140, which favours extraction of heat and humidity, thus further improving microclimate management. - By way of preference, the open-structured, non-foam supportive material used as a constituent of the aforementioned supporting
spacers 115 and supportinglayer 140 consists of a three-dimensional elastic arrangement of polymer filaments, especially filaments made of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), as shown in the photographic illustration ofFigure 5 . Such a material is commercially available on the market, including e.g. from company Enkev B.V. (www.enkev.com) under the product designation Labyrinth® 100 (Labyrinth® being a registered trademark of Enkev B.V.). This material may be produced by extruding molten polymer and shaping/molding the resulting monofilaments into desired three-dimensional structures of fused monofilaments. - The aforementioned supporting
spacers 115 and supportinglayer 140 could in effect form a single integral supporting structure. The use of individual elements may however be advantageous in terms of modularity and the ability to replace only selected elements in case of need. - In the
foot section 1F ofmattress 1, a dedicated heelzone supporting element 130/135 is preferably provided. In the illustrated embodiment, this heelzone supporting element 130/135 includes abottom supporting element 130 housed within thelongitudinal space 110a of theflexible frame member 110 and, more importantly, an upper supportingelement 135 that is made of spacer fabrics. Spacer fabrics are known as such in the art and basically consist of two textile sheets joined and separated by distance fibres (such as polyester fibres) to offer high absorption capacities, which is particularly useful to transfer weight away from the vulnerable heel area. Spacer fabrics are commercially available on the market, e.g. from company Essedea GmbH & Co. KG (www.essedea.de) under the product designation 3DEA® (3DEA® being a registered trademark of Heinz-Willy Essers). - While a distinct
bottom supporting element 130 is shown inFigures 1A-C and3 , one will appreciate that thisbottom supporting element 130 could form an integral part of theflexible frame member 110 if desired. As is visible inFigure 1C and3 , theflexible frame member 110 andbottom supporting element 130 may advantageously exhibit a sloped configuration, reducing in thickness towards the end of themattress 1, to create asloped heel zone 1F with a slight angle of the order of e.g. 5 degrees. - In the
head section 1H ofmattress 1, a dedicated headzone supporting element 120 is likewise preferably provided. In the illustrated embodiment, this headzone supporting element 120 is made of a foam material (such as polyurethane foam) and is partly housed within thelongitudinal space 110a of theflexible frame member 110. This supportingelement 120 advantageously includes a castellatedupper surface 120A that provides extra comfort and a certain level of additional pressure redistribution for the patient's head. - As a further refinement, also depicted in
Figures 1A-C and4 , theinner support structure 100 additionally comprises asoft top layer 145 provided in a top portion of theinner support structure 100. Preferably, as shown inFigures 1A-C , this softtop layer 145 extends over the entire top portion of theinner support structure 110 apart from thehead section 1H of themattress 1. In other words, in the depicted embodiment, thesoft top layer 145 overlies the supportinglayer 140 and the upper supportingelement 135 provided in the heel zone. Thesoft top layer 145 is mainly meant to act as a soft, responsive top layer designed to envelop the patient for maximum comfort. This softtop layer 145 may in particular consist of non-woven polyester fibres. - Various modifications and/or improvements may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the annexed claims.
- For instance, while the pressure redistribution mattress depicted in the appended drawings is designed to allow non-powered pressure redistribution, without the need for a power unit, one could nevertheless contemplate applying the same principle to a powered pressure redistribution mattress, if desired.
- Additionally, while the pressure redistribution mattress depicted in the appended drawings includes eight air cells arranged in a transversal manner, the pressure redistribution mattress could include any number of air cells arranged in a longitudinal and/or transversal manner.
- Furthermore, the provision of a heel zone supporting element and a head zone supporting element, as described above is not essential, although preferred as it brings further benefits to the patient. The same is basically true with respect to the provision of the supporting layer and soft top layer which may potentially be replaced by any other adequate layer or layers. The provision of the relevant supporting layer and soft top layer nevertheless remains a favoured and preferred solution that brings further benefits in terms of microclimate management and comfort for the patient.
-
- 1
- pressure redistribution mattress
- 1H
- head section of
mattress 1 - 1F
- foot section of
mattress 1 - 1L
- lateral sides of the
mattress 1 - 10
- (removable) cover
- 100
- inner support structure
- 110
- flexible supporting frame member (foam structure)
- 110a
- longitudinal space of flexible supporting
frame member 110 - 110b
- transversal apertures ensuring circulation of air and moisture / transversal cut-outs formed in upper side of
longitudinal sidewalls 110L - 110L
- longitudinal sidewalls of flexible supporting
frame member 110 - 115
- supporting spacer elements (open-structured, non-foam supportive material)
- 120
- head zone supporting element (castellated foam element)
- 120A
- castellated upper surface of head
zone supporting element 120 - 130
- heel zone bottom supporting element (foam element)
- 135
- heel zone upper supporting element (spacer fabrics)
- 140
- supporting layer (open-structured, non-foam supportive material)
- 145
- soft top layer
- 200
- pressure redistribution assembly
- 210
- (transverse) air cells
- 210A
- T-connector of
air cell 210 - 210a
- (transversal) gaps between
air cells 210 - 250
- pressure redistribution system
- 250A
- tubing elements
- 250B
- intake valves
- 250C
- air filter
- 250D
- pressure-release valve
Claims (15)
- A pressure redistribution mattress (1) comprising an inner support structure (100) housing a pressure redistribution assembly (200) including a plurality of air cells (210) connected by means of a pressure redistribution system (250),
characterized in that the air cells (210) are spaced apart from one another to form gaps (210a) between the air cells (210),
and in that the gaps (210a) are filled with supporting spacers (115) formed of an open-structured, non-foam supportive material allowing circulation of air and moisture. - The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to claim 1, wherein the inner support structure (100) comprises a flexible supporting frame member (110) with a longitudinal space (110a) configured and dimensioned to receive the pressure redistribution assembly (200) and supporting spacers (115).
- The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to claim 2, wherein the flexible supporting frame member (110) includes a pair of longitudinal sidewalls (110L) encasing the pressure redistribution assembly (200) and supporting spacers (115),
and wherein a central portion of each longitudinal sidewall (110L) is provided with at least one transversal aperture (110b) that ensures circulation of air and moisture between the longitudinal space (110a) and lateral sides (1L) of the mattress (1). - The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to claim 3, wherein each transversal aperture (110b) consists of a transversal cut-out formed in an upper side of each longitudinal sidewall (110L).
- The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the flexible supporting frame member (110) is made of a foam material, such as a polyurethane foam.
- The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner support structure (100) comprises a supporting layer (140) overlying the pressure redistribution assembly (200) and supporting spacers (115),
and wherein the supporting layer (140) is likewise preferably made of an open-structured, non-foam supportive material allowing circulation of air and moisture. - The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to claim 6, wherein the supporting layer (140) extends in the mattress (1) apart from a head section (1H) and a foot section (1F) of the mattress (1),
and wherein the supporting layer (140) preferably extends, in the width direction, all the way between the lateral sides (1L) of the mattress (1). - The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the open-structured, non-foam supportive material consists of a three-dimensional elastic arrangement of polymer filaments, especially filaments made of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
- The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner support structure (100) comprises a heel zone supporting element (130/135) provided in a foot section (1F) of the mattress (1).
- The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to claim 9, wherein the heel zone supporting element (130/135) includes an upper supporting element (135) made of spacer fabrics.
- The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner support structure (100) comprises a soft top layer (145) provided in a top portion of the inner support structure (100),
and wherein the soft top layer (145) preferably extends over the entire top portion of the inner support structure (100) apart from a head section (1H) of the mattress (1). - The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner support structure (100) comprises a head zone supporting element (120) provided in a head section (1H) of the mattress (1).
- The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to claim 12, wherein the head zone supporting element (120) is made of a foam material, such as a polyurethane foam, and includes a castellated upper surface (120A).
- The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air cells (210) are transverse air cells (210) extending in a width direction of the mattress (1) and wherein the supporting spacers (115) are transverse supporting spacers (115) filling the gaps (210a) between the air cells (210).
- The pressure redistribution mattress (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a removable cover (10) housing the inner support structure (100), which removable cover (10) is preferably made of an air-permeable, multi-directional stretch fabric reducing shear and friction, such as a polyurethane coated nylon fabric.
Priority Applications (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP21166020.4A EP4066690A1 (en) | 2021-03-30 | 2021-03-30 | Pressure redistribution mattress |
US18/552,456 US20240156278A1 (en) | 2021-03-30 | 2022-03-14 | Pressure redistribution mattress |
PCT/IB2022/052278 WO2022208207A1 (en) | 2021-03-30 | 2022-03-14 | Pressure redistribution mattress |
EP22710179.7A EP4312668A1 (en) | 2021-03-30 | 2022-03-14 | Pressure redistribution mattress |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP21166020.4A EP4066690A1 (en) | 2021-03-30 | 2021-03-30 | Pressure redistribution mattress |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP4066690A1 true EP4066690A1 (en) | 2022-10-05 |
Family
ID=75302386
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP21166020.4A Withdrawn EP4066690A1 (en) | 2021-03-30 | 2021-03-30 | Pressure redistribution mattress |
EP22710179.7A Pending EP4312668A1 (en) | 2021-03-30 | 2022-03-14 | Pressure redistribution mattress |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP22710179.7A Pending EP4312668A1 (en) | 2021-03-30 | 2022-03-14 | Pressure redistribution mattress |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20240156278A1 (en) |
EP (2) | EP4066690A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2022208207A1 (en) |
Citations (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR1082442A (en) * | 1953-08-27 | 1954-12-29 | Mattress | |
DE9409944U1 (en) * | 1994-06-20 | 1994-09-15 | Steppdeckenfabrik Kirchhoff Oh | Water bed with spacers between individual containers |
US5634224A (en) | 1994-08-16 | 1997-06-03 | Gates; Stephen M. | Inflatable cushioning device with self opening intake valve |
US5671492A (en) | 1995-03-14 | 1997-09-30 | Simon; Keith Douglas | Contoured asymmetrical mattress |
DE19954187A1 (en) * | 1998-11-25 | 2000-05-31 | Peter Hechler | Pneumatic mattress has top and bottom layers with intermediate cavities containing air-cushions enclosed in supports, with connections |
WO2000062648A1 (en) | 1999-04-20 | 2000-10-26 | M.P.L. Ltd. | Inflatable cushioning device with manifold system |
DE202004000702U1 (en) * | 2004-01-16 | 2004-06-03 | Scharf, Günther | Inflatable mattress, comprising T-shaped and curved ventilation slots in upper foam rubber cover |
US10631658B2 (en) * | 2014-01-23 | 2020-04-28 | Hans Malzl | Mattress |
Family Cites Families (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE202014005041U1 (en) * | 2014-06-17 | 2014-07-09 | Wilhelm Blaser | Mattress insert from air hoses |
-
2021
- 2021-03-30 EP EP21166020.4A patent/EP4066690A1/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2022
- 2022-03-14 WO PCT/IB2022/052278 patent/WO2022208207A1/en active Application Filing
- 2022-03-14 US US18/552,456 patent/US20240156278A1/en active Pending
- 2022-03-14 EP EP22710179.7A patent/EP4312668A1/en active Pending
Patent Citations (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR1082442A (en) * | 1953-08-27 | 1954-12-29 | Mattress | |
DE9409944U1 (en) * | 1994-06-20 | 1994-09-15 | Steppdeckenfabrik Kirchhoff Oh | Water bed with spacers between individual containers |
US5634224A (en) | 1994-08-16 | 1997-06-03 | Gates; Stephen M. | Inflatable cushioning device with self opening intake valve |
US5671492A (en) | 1995-03-14 | 1997-09-30 | Simon; Keith Douglas | Contoured asymmetrical mattress |
DE19954187A1 (en) * | 1998-11-25 | 2000-05-31 | Peter Hechler | Pneumatic mattress has top and bottom layers with intermediate cavities containing air-cushions enclosed in supports, with connections |
WO2000062648A1 (en) | 1999-04-20 | 2000-10-26 | M.P.L. Ltd. | Inflatable cushioning device with manifold system |
US6269505B1 (en) | 1999-04-20 | 2001-08-07 | M.P.L. Ltd. | Inflatable cushioning device with manifold system |
DE202004000702U1 (en) * | 2004-01-16 | 2004-06-03 | Scharf, Günther | Inflatable mattress, comprising T-shaped and curved ventilation slots in upper foam rubber cover |
US10631658B2 (en) * | 2014-01-23 | 2020-04-28 | Hans Malzl | Mattress |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP4312668A1 (en) | 2024-02-07 |
US20240156278A1 (en) | 2024-05-16 |
WO2022208207A1 (en) | 2022-10-06 |
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