EP4093246A1

EP4093246A1 - Controllable beds

Info

Publication number: EP4093246A1
Application number: EP21744973.5A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Andrew J. FRANK
Original assignee: Patientech LLC
Current assignee: Patientech LLC
Priority date: 2020-01-24
Filing date: 2021-01-25
Publication date: 2022-11-30
Also published as: US20210227991A1; JP2023511509A; CA3163863A1; WO2021151084A1; EP4093246A4

Abstract

A support structure for supporting a human body. The support structure includes a plurality of zones, including a hip zone, a lumbar zone, and a shoulder zone. The support structure includes at least one air bladder cell being disposed in each of the plurality of zones, each of the at least one air bladder cell being a hermetically sealed body. An air pressure controller includes a plurality of air pumps being connected to a pliable manifold, the pliable manifold being connected to one or more of a plurality of solenoid valves. A plurality of inlet tubes can each be connected at a first end to one of the plurality of solenoid valves and at a second end to the inlet port of one of the at least one air bladder cell. The number of air bladder cells can be greater than the number of zones.

Description

CONTROLLABLE BEDS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application

Serial No. 62/965,775, filed on January 24, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Embodiments of the technology relate, in general, to controllable beds, including without limitation beds that incorporate inflatable bladders.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Beds having mattresses having inflatable bladders for the support of a prone human body can aid in better sleep conditions. However, providing for effective bladder inflation control while also minimizing noise and vibration, can be challenging.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] It is believed that certain embodiments will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like references indicate similar elements and in which:

[0005] FIG. 1 is a schematic side elevation representation of an embodiment of a support structure;

[0006] FIG. 2 is a schematic side elevation representation of an embodiment of another support structure;

[0007] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an air pressure controller;

[0008] FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of the air pressure controller of FIG. 3;

[0009] FIG. 5 is a right-rear perspective view of the air pressure controller of FIG. 3; [0010] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the air pressure controller of FIG. 3 with the upper housing portion removed;

[0011] FIG. 7 is a plan view of the air pressure controller of FIG. 3 with the upper housing portion removed;

[0012] FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of the air pressure controller taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 6;

[0013] FIG. 9 is a rear elevation sectional view of the air pressure controller taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7;

[0014] FIG. 10 is a partial perspective cross sectional view of an embodiment of an air pressure controller of FIG. 3 with the rear panel removed and showing a representative foot;

[0015] FIG. 11 is a partial perspective view of an embodiment of the air pressure controller of FIG. 3 showing alternative feet;

[0016] FIG. 12 is another partial perspective view of an embodiment of the air pressure controller of FIG. 3 showing alternative feet;

[0017] FIG. 13 is another partial perspective view of an embodiment of the air pressure controller of FIG. 3 showing alternative feet;

[0018] FIG. 14 depicts an embodiment of the air pressure controller of FIG. 3 showing representative dimensions in centimeters;

[0019] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a manifold of the air pressure controllers shown and disclosed herein;

[0020] FIG. 16 is a bottom-left perspective view of the manifold of FIG. 15;

[0021] FIG. 17 is a plan view of the manifold of FIG. 15;

[0022] FIG. 18 is rear view of the manifold of FIG. 15;

[0023] FIG. 19 is a rotated right side view of the manifold of FIG. 15; [0024] FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of the manifold taken along Section A-A of FIG.

19;

[0025] FIG. 21 is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of a system of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 22 is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of a system of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 23 is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of a system of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 24 is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of a system of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 25 is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of a system of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 26 is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of a support structure;

[0031] FIG. 27 is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of a support structure; and

[0032] FIG. 28 is a schematic depiction of an embodiment of a support structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, and use of the apparatuses, systems, methods, and processes disclosed herein. One or more examples of these non-limiting embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that systems and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting embodiments. The features illustrated or described in connection with one non-limiting embodiment may be combined with the features of other non limiting embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. [0034] Reference throughout the specification to "various embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," "some example embodiments," "one example embodiment," or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with any embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in various embodiments," "in some embodiments," "in one embodiment," "some example embodiments," "one example embodiment, or "in an embodiment" in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0035] The examples discussed herein are examples only and are provided to assist in the explanation of the apparatuses, devices, systems and methods described herein. None of the features or components shown in the drawings or discussed below should be taken as mandatory for any specific implementation of any of the apparatuses, devices, systems or methods unless specifically designated as mandatory. For ease of reading and clarity, certain components, modules, or methods may be described solely in connection with a specific figure. Any failure to specifically describe a combination or sub-combination of components should not be understood as an indication that any combination or sub-combination is not possible. Also, for any methods described, regardless of whether the method is described in conjunction with a flow diagram, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified or required by context, any explicit or implicit ordering of steps performed in the execution of a method does not imply that those steps must be performed in the order presented but instead may be performed in a different order or in parallel.

[0036] Solutions to the problems associated with effective control of bladder inflation and control in bed components can be achieved with embodiments of the bladder control apparatuses, methods, and systems disclosed here in. In general, the apparatuses, methods, and systems of the present disclosure provide for relatively fast, quiet, and adaptable inflation, deflation, and inflation control of one or more bladders incorporated in a support structure, such as a mattress for a bed. The bladder control apparatus of the present disclosure will be described in the context of a mattress for bed, but it is understood that the structure, features, and benefits described herein can be applied to other bladder control contexts. [0037] Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a schematic side elevation representation of an embodiment of a support structure 10, which can include a mattress for a bed 20 on which a person 30 can lay down. The support structure 10 can incorporate one or more air bladder cells 22, such as air bladder cells 22A-22F, each of which function as an adaptive cushion, being adaptable for changing conditions and control instructions. The support structure 10 can be of an appropriate size and shape for use on a standard single bed, double bed, queen size bed, king size bed, or hospital bed. However, the size and shape of the support structure 10 can be varied to suit different applications, such as for use on a fixed chair or wheel chair. Of course, it should be appreciated that the support structure 10 can also be sized and shaped for use on any type of bed, platform, or furniture.

[0038] The support structure 10 can adjust to body force concentrations on a body of a person 30 lying on the bed by adjusting the pressure of one or more air bladder cells 22. Each air bladder cell 22 can be sealingly joined at edges thereof to form a hermetically sealed body. Each air bladder cell 22 can be a laterally elongated, rectangular shape and can be made of a thin sheet of a flexible, elastomeric material such as neoprene rubber or polyurethane, having a thickness of about 0.014 inch. The side and end panels of each air bladder cell 22 can be sealingly joined at edges thereof to form a hermetically sealed body which has a hollow interior space. Optionally, each air bladder cell 22 may be fabricated from a tubular preform in which each end panel is sealingly joined to opposite transverse ends of the tubular preform. In either embodiment, adjacent panels of an individual air bladder cell 22 can be sealingly joined by a suitable method such as ultrasonic bonding, RF -welding or adhesive bonding.

[0039] The number, size, shape, thickness, relative positioning and spacing of air bladder cells 22 of can be varied as desired. As depicted in FIG. 1, the air bladder cells 22 22A-22E can be placed for support of one or more of the legs, hips, lumbar, shoulder, and head regions of a person 30, respectively, as indicated.

[0040] The support structure 10 can provide support to a person in discrete support zones, with each zone being associated with a targeted portion of the person’s body. In an example, a support structure 10 can provide for adjustable support in one or more of a head zone, a shoulder zone, a lumbar zone (upper and/or lower), a hip zone, and a foot zone. Each column of air bladder cells 22 can span a plurality of zones. For example, from three to six zones can be arranged, corresponding to locations along the major curvature of a longitudinally disposed medial section of a typical human body. As depicted in an example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, a support structure 10 can be a bed 20 having six air bladder cells 22 and four support zones 50, e.g., a combined head and leg support zone 50A that includes air bladder cells 22A, 22B and 22F, a shoulder support zone 50B including air bladder cell 22E, a lumbar support zone 50C including air bladder cell 22D, and a hip support zone 50D including air bladder cell 22C. Thus, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the support structure 10 has six air bladder cells 22 and four support zones 50, but, in general, the support structure can have more than six air bladder cells, and equal or fewer support zones than air bladder cells. In an embodiment, the air bladder cells 22 can be arranged closely together in both front and rear and side by side directions, with minimum longitudinal and lateral spacings, respectively, that are vanishingly small so that adjacent bladder cells physically contact each other

[0041] In another representative embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 2, the support structure

10 can include a combination of air bladders cells 22 and cushion members 42, which can be non- inflated cushions such as foam cushions. In the embodiment illustrated, two cushion members 42 are provided, a leg zone cushion 42A placed in a leg support zone 50E, and a head zone cushion 42B placed in a head support zone 50F. Further with reference to FIG. 2, in an embodiment, the support structure 10 can have three support zones, a first support zone 50G that can be hip support zone, a second support zone 50H that can be a lumbar support zone, and a third support zone 501 that can be a shoulder support zone, with each support zone having one or more air bladder cells. It should be appreciated that the support structure may include any number of air bladder cells 22 and/or support zones 50, or combination of support zones 50 and air bladder cells 22.

[0042] One or more of the air bladder cells 22, including at least one air bladder cell 22 per support zone 50, can be provided with an air inlet port 24 which can protrude through a side wall, e.g., a left or right side wall, and provides for fluid communication with a hollow interior space within the air bladder cell 22. Air admitted into or exhausted from hollow interior space through an air inlet port 24 of an air bladder cell 22 enables the air bladder cell to be inflated or deflated to a selected, predetermined, or adaptively changed pressure. [0043] Although the shape of each air bladder cell 22 of can be that of a rectangular block, or parallelepiped, the air bladder cells 22 may optionally have different shapes, such as convex hemispheres protruding upwards from the base of the cushion.

[0044] Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown an example air pressure controller 100 for controlling the air pressure in one or more air bladder cells 22.

[0045] Each air inlet port 24 of an air bladder cell 22 can be operatively connected to the air pressure controller 100, which can provide fluid, e.g., air, communication into the air bladder cells 22 via one or more inlet tubes 110, such as inlet tubes 1 lOA-110D shown in FIG. 3. In an embodiment, the air bladder cell(s) 22 for a single zone can be connected to a single inlet tube 110. Thus, in an embodiment a single inlet tube 110 may provide for air passage to more than one air bladder cell 22. Each inlet tube 110 can have a connector 118, which can be a quick disconnect connector, that connects to a mating feature on the air inlet port 24 or to an extension tube (not shown) connected to the air inlet port 24. Each inlet tube 110 exits the housing 112 of the air pressure controller 100, which can include an upper housing portion 112A and a matingly connectable lower housing portion 112B. Power to the air pressure controller 100 can be provided by a power cord 170, shown in an example embodiment in FIG. 21, which can, plug into a power connection 142, such as the barrel connector shown in FIG. 5. A Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable 115 can be connected to the air pressure controller 100 at a USB port 146, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5. The USB cable 115 can be routed from the air pressure controller 100 to one or more of a plurality of sensors on the support structure, and can transmit data from the one or more of a plurality of pressure sensors for controlling the air pressure in the air bladder cells, described herein below. It should be appreciated that power can be provided via any other suitable mechanism for providing power to the air pressure controller 100 (e.g, PoE, busbar, wire and conduit, external power storage unit, etc.).

[0046] Referring now to FIG. 4, the lower side of the air pressure controller 100 can include one or more feet 114 for floor-mounted or surface-mounted configurations. In general, the feet 114 can be made of a relatively soft and non-slip material (or combination of materials), such as rubber or neoprene, and can serve to reduce the transmission of vibrations from the air pressure controller 100 to or from a mounting surface, such as the floor of a user’s bedroom or on a table or nightstand. Air vents 116 permit air to enter the housing 112 for eventual transmission to or from the air bladder cells 22 via one or more air pumps 120, which are described below in connection with FIG. 6. One or more channels 117 can provide for securing cords, such as the USB cable 115 and/or the USB cable 115 for secure, strain-relieved operation.

[0047] Referring now to FIG. 5, the air pressure controller 100 can include a control panel portion, such as an end or rear panel opposite the inlet tubes 110. For example, an end panel can include a connection and control panel 140, which may include connections for various control components, as well as user input components (e.g., toggle switches, touchscreens, buttons, etc.) and/or indicators (e.g., LED lights, display panels, etc.) for providing users with visual signals showing operational status, selected options, and/or user-specific preferences or data. For example, the connection and control panel 140 can include a power connection 142, an on/off switch, a power status indicator 144, a USB port 146, Wi-Fi and/or BLUETOOTH connection status indicator 148, a reset button, and the like.

[0048] Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown a perspective view of the representative air pressure controller 100 with the upper housing portion 112A removed to show various example components and features. In general, the air pressure controller 100 can include a plurality of air pumps 120, each of which can be operatively connected to a pliable manifold 122, through which air from the air pumps 120 can flow to a plurality of solenoid valves 124, each of which is connected to an inlet tube 110. In an example, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the pliable manifold can be connected by a suitable connection to a first solenoid valve 124 of an interconnected plurality of solenoids 124, with the interconnection including a closed path for the air flow to continue through the first solenoid valve to the last solenoid valve 124. Thus, air from one or more of the plurality of air pumps 120 can flow to a first solenoid valve 124, and then through one or more of the remaining solenoid valves 124 to provide air flow to any or all of the solenoid valves 124. The pliable manifold 122 is pliable relative to manifolds made of rigid materials such as rigid polymers, metal, composites, and the like. In an embodiment, the pliable manifold comprises silicone. The air pumps 120 can be low voltage DC powered, such as 24-VDC or 12-VDC pumps. In operation, air can be selectively pumped from outside the air pressure controller 100 by one or more of the air pumps 120, each of which supply to and through the pliable manifold 122, and selectively through one or more of the solenoid valves 124 and then through an inlet tube 110 and into one or more air bladder cells 22 of a support zone 50. The operation of the pumps, solenoids, and other operation components can be selectively and individually controlled via various components of an electronic control board 126, which can be or include a multifunction processor. The electronic control board 126 can include a RS-232 connection for serial communication of data, a CAN bus, Ethernet capability, connectivity for USB, Bluetooth connections, multichannel Wi-Fi, and EO functionality for receiving, analyzing, reporting, or otherwise handling data from pressure inputs from one or more sensors in one or more zones. The electronic control board 126 is operationally connected to the features of the control panel 140 in a manner as is known in the field of controls.

[0049] Referring now to FIG. 7, in a plan view of the air pressure controller 100 with the upper housing portion 112A removed, one example embodiment is illustrated in which there are four air pumps 120, each of which can pump air, either singly or in combination with one or more other air pumps, into the pliable manifold 122. The pliable manifold 122 directs air flow to, in the illustrated embodiment, four solenoid valves 124. A fifth solenoid valve 124A can be actuated as a vent to release air from one or more of the air bladder cells 22. In general, any number of air pumps 120 and any number of solenoid valves 124 can be selectively utilized. Each solenoid valve 124 can have a return hose 132 that provides fluid communication to a corresponding pressure transducer 134, which can utilize pressure feedback from a zone to facilitate proper pressure control in the zone’s associated air bladder cell(s) 22. In operation, manual or programmed signals from the control board 126 can selectively actuate one or more air pumps 120 depending on the amount and rate of air flow desired into one or more air bladder cells 22. In an embodiment, for example, if minimal air flow is desired or required for a relatively small volumetric change in an air bladder cell 22, one air pump 120 can be activated. However, if maximum air flow is desired, for example, for initial filling of one or all of the air bladder cells 22, all four air pumps 120 can be activated. As certain of the air bladder cells 22 fill to the desired pressure, their respective solenoids 124 can be selectively activated to shut off air flow, while air flow remains to the other air bladder cells 22.

[0050] Thus, as can be understood from the description herein, a bed utilizing the systems and apparatuses of the support structure 10 of the present disclosure can include a support structure 10 having a plurality of zones 50 of support, the zones being associated with portions of the human body, such as the head, shoulders, lumbar, hips, and feet. The number of zones 50 can be, for example, between two and ten, or between three and six. Each zone 50 can have associated therewith one or more air bladder cells 22. In an embodiment, all the air bladder cells for a single zone 50 are operationally connected to the air pressure controller 110 by an inlet tube 110. Thus, in general, there can be one inlet tube 110 for each zone 50. In an embodiment, a bed of the present disclosure can have five air bladder cells 22 and four zones 50; or ten air bladder cells 22 and six zones 50.

[0051] Referring now to FIG. 8, which is a cut-away perspective view of the air pressure controller 100, various example mounting features are shown. Each of the air pumps 120 can be mounted in secure placement by being clamped between the upper housing portion 112A and the lower housing portion 112B. In an embodiment, a cushioning member 128 is disposed between the outer housing of the air pump 120 and the housing 112 components to dampen noise and vibration. Each air pump 120 can be electrically powered through electrical connectors 130, as shown in FIG. 9.

[0052] Referring now to FIG. 10, a representative design of one of the feet 114 is shown.

FIGS. 11-13 illustrate other non-limiting design examples of feet 114.

[0053] FIG. 14 shows a representative air pressure controller 100 with representative dimensions in centimeters. By way of example, the air pressure controller 100 can have a width dimension W of between about 150 cm and 350 cm, and can be about 210 cm. The air pressure controller 100 can have a length L of between about 150 cm and about 350 cm, an can be about 218 cm. The air pressure controller 100 can have a height dimension H of between about 50 cm and about 150 cm, and can be about 91 cm. It should be appreciated that the air pressure controller 110 can have any other dimensions depending on the specific application (e.g., controlling air bladders in a single bed vs a king sized bed or embodiments in which additional air bladder cells need to be controlled).

[0054] The pliable manifold 122 is shown in more detail in FIGS. 15-20. FIGS. 15 and 16 show a top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of the pliable manifold 122. FIG. 17 shows a top plan view, and FIG. 18 shows a rear elevation view of the pliable manifold 122. FIG. 19 shows a rotated right side elevation view, and FIG. 20 shows the cross-section A-A of FIG. 19. The various features will be described with respect to FIGS. 14 and 15, with like features being evident in FIGS. 16-19. As shown, the pliable manifold 122 can have a generally L-shape, with a primary tube portion 150 that feeds into a secondary tube portion 152. A first end portion 154 can be plugged in operation, while a second end portion 156 can be operationally connected to the solenoid valves. A third end portion 158 can have an emergency relief valve integrated therein, or joined thereto, as described above. Each of the air pumps 120, as described above, can be joined to a manifold inlet tube 160 that can have a flange portion 162 that aids in making a leakless joint with the air pump. Webbing 164 between the inlet tubes 160 can provide for dimensional stability, and, as well, can have portions defining holes 166 that can be used to connect or secure the pliable manifold in position.

[0055] As can be understood from the above description, a support structure 10 can benefit from the features and components of the air pressure controller 100, which provide for effective air bladder cell inflation while also minimizing noise and vibration. By “ganging” a plurality of air pumps 120 into a single manifold, for example, an effective amount of air (measured, for example, in cubic feet per minute) through pliable manifold 122 to solenoid valves 124, can be moved in a variable, quiet manner. When initially filling the air bladder cells 22, for example, all of the plurality of air pumps 120 can be energized and utilized. During use, less than all of the plurality of air pumps 120, including one air pump 120, can be utilized to maintain, change, or otherwise alter the pressure in any given air bladder cell 22. Because each air pump 120 feeds into a single pliable manifold 122, any or all of the air pumps 120 can be used to provide air to any of the solenoid valves 124. Using low voltage DC air pumps reduces noise and vibration as well as increases safety to a user. Further, noise and vibration can be reduced due to the variably reduced use of air pumps 120, as well as the noise and vibration isolation mounting when integrated into the housing 112, as described above. Additionally, by essentially “cross-connecting” each of the air pumps 120 to any of the solenoid valves 124, air flow to any or all of the inlet tubes 110, and eventually the air bladder cells 22 can be optimized and/or maximized.

[0056] The pliable manifold 122 offers numerous advantages to the operation of the air pressure controller 100. In an embodiment, the pliable manifold 122 can be made of rubber, flexible plastic, and/or silicone. The pliable manifold 122 reduces noise, reduces vibration, minimizes or eliminates water or chemical damage, and can reduce costs to make and use. The pliable manifold 122 can have incorporated therein or thereon a pressure relief valve 136. The pressure relief valve can be a safety feature that can serve as an emergency relief valve in the event of an over-pressure condition. The pressure relief valve 136 can be a Venturi valve that, in addition to permitting air release there through, also provides an audible signal, such as a whistling sound, upon activation or operation.

[0057] In some embodiments, the air pressure controller 100 can be attached or otherwise positioned proximate to a foot or distal portion of the support structure 10. However, it should be appreciated that the air pressure controller 100 can be attached or positioned in other locations relative to the support structure 10 (e.g., a side, a head portion of the support structure 10, the floor, attached to a wall, etc.). The air pressure controller 100 can be encapsulated with foam or other dampening material. In some embodiments, the air pressure controller 100 can selectively pump air to (and in some embodiments from) one or more air bladder cells 22 on a single side of the support structure 10 or multiple sides of the support structure 10. For instance, in embodiments (not shown) in which a first air pressure controller 100 selectively pumps air to air bladders cells 22 located in a first side of the support structure 10, a second air pressure controller 100 can be utilized to selectively pump air to air bladder cells 22 located in a second side of the support structure 10.

[0058] In an embodiment, a support structure 10 in the form of a bed can be configured as described with reference to FIG. 21. In addition to the various features and benefits described above with reference to FIG. 2 in which all the previously described members can be present, in an example configuration the air pressure controller 100 can be located inside the support structure 10, for example, inside a cushion member 42, such as inside the in the leg zone cushion 42 A. One or more cables, such as the USB cable 115 can be operatively connected to one or more sensors, for example a matrix of sensors 192, two of which are schematically indicated in a sensing layer 190 that can extend on all or a portion of the surface of the support structure 10. In an embodiment, a plurality of sensors 192, for example, from 50 to 5000 sensors 192, can be incorporated into a fabric extending over the surface of the bed. The plurality of sensors 192 can be resistive elements or capacitive elements evenly distributed in the sensing layer 190 to detect pressure in one or more of the zones, which pressure data can be utilized to cause one or more air pumps 120 in the air pressure controller 100 to pump air into one or more of the zones 50, or, alternatively, permit air out of one or more of the zones 50 via the respective air bladder cell(s) 22 contained therein. In an embodiment, one or more of the plurality of sensors 192 can be set or adjusted for sensitivity, such that pressure changes can have threshold values or reference values that trigger a pressure adjustment. In an embodiment, the air pressure controller 100 can be housed and supported by a controller housing (not shown), that is itself configured inside a cushion member 42. The controller housing can be, for example, a multi-piece member configured in one or more pieces, such as molded foam pieces, that cooperate to fit around and hold the air pressure controller 100 securely in place, as well as to provide for openings for adequate air circulation and cable access.

[0059] The plurality of sensors 192 can detect localized pressure, and transmit the localized pressure data to the control board of the air pressure controller to respond, if necessary by executing instructions to vary the amount of air in one or more air bladder cells in the zone of the detected localized pressure. In an embodiment, a person 30 can predetermine, such as by pre programming, one or more desired pressure profiles for the support structure 10. A pressure profile can be set for each of various sleeping positions, such as on the back or on the side. By the system disclosed, real-time, feedback-controlled response of the air pressure controller to increase or decrease the amount of air in one or more air bladder cells 22 can redistribute the air pressure to reshape the bed in response to, for example, a person turning from her back to her side. For example, it may be that more inflation of the air bladder cells 22 in the back zone 50 is desirable, and less inflation of the air bladder cells 22 in each of the hip zone 50 and shoulder zone 50, when a person rolls onto her side from her back. Such redistribution of inflation of air bladder cells 22 can be achieved by suitably linking the plurality of sensors 192 with control components of the air pressure controller 100 to sense, respond, and provide feedback in a loop that operates to provide for the pre-determined inflation levels. The distribution of inflation of air bladder cells 22 can thus be constantly monitored for each zone, with adjustments automatically made while the person 30 sleeps.

[0060] The air pressure controller 100 can draw in air from outside the bed through any suitable pathway, including, by example, through an air duct 119 having an opening outside of the bed, including any foam padding. Likewise, the air pressure controller 100 can be placed such that the control panel 140 faces exteriorly to the bed, as indicated in FIG. 21. The air pressure controller 100 can have one or more inlet tubes 110 going to each of a plurality of air bladder cells 22, as described above (one of which is representatively shown in FIG. 21). The air pressure controller 100 can be powered by AC power, for example, from a 120 VAC wall outlet via power cord 170 and plug 174. Power can be transformed by transformer 172 from, for example, 120 VAC to 12VDC to power the air pumps. In an embodiment, the transformer 172 can be located outside of the support structure 10, such as on a floor on which the support structure 10 rests. In this configuration, all relatively high voltage, and all AC voltage, is decoupled from the support structure 10, and, therefore, physically separated from a person 30 laying on the support structure 10

[0061] As can be understood from the example embodiment of FIG. 21, several beneficial advantages can be achieved in the support structure 10. The low voltage, DC motors provide for safe power that can be placed unobtrusively in a place where it is near to, but invisible, to the person 30 and undisturbed from inadvertent impact from outside influences. Additionally, the foam cushion can serve to dampen vibrations and sound, providing for quiet, non-vibratory operation. Finally, the transformer 172 is safely externally disposed with respect to the support structure 10, with only one cord being externally disposed.

[0062] In an example embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 22-24, the support structure 10, such as in the form of a bed, can be communicatively coupled to any number of other electronic devices (e.g., smart devices, IoT devices, computers, smartphones, etc.) via one or more wired and/or wireless communication channels. For example, as illustratively shown in FIG. 22, a support structure 10 can be in wireless communication with smartphone 200, executing a connected “app” from which various controls and settings can be managed, as well as various data received and analyzed. Likewise, as illustratively shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, the support structure 10 can be in wireless communication with any number of electronic devices 240 — either local or remotely located — via one or more wireless communication channels (e.g., WiFi communication channels, BLUETOOTH communication channels, or any other wireless communication channel). In an example, a system of the present disclosure can include a support structure 10 wirelessly connected in a controlling relationship with devices 240 such as virtual assistants (e.g., ALEXA, GOOGLE), noise generators (e.g., speakers), tactile feedback generator (e.g., vibratory devices), noise cancelling speakers, lighting, window coverings, doors, including garage doors, alarm systems, smart thermostats, and other devices impacting the environment of the support structure 10. Further, as depicted in FIG. 25, biometric monitoring can be utilized to monitor such parameters as movement and breathing, and can be analyzed to record, analyze, and/or, report on sleep quality, respiration, movement, and/or tissue pressure distribution and management. Biometric data can be displayed on devices such as laptops, tablets, smartphones, and the like. In embodiments in which the connection and control panel 140 includes a display screen, such biometric data can be displayed to a user on the air pressure controller 100 itself.

[0063] In addition to the components and features described above, the air pressure controller 100 can be operationally configured to generate, gather, and/or transmit data and reports related to sleep time, sleep comfort, and sleep quality. For example, data related to sleep activity can be gathered and stored in cloud based storage. Such data can include, for example, data related to sleep comfort, sleep cycle, pressure distribution, respiration, heart rate, body temperature, and the like. Likewise, other data related to the sleep environment can be gathered, analyzed, and/or transmitted, including, for example, room lighting, room temperature, bed temperature, noise levels, and the like. In some embodiments, such data can be processed and reports can be generated locally by the air pressure controller 100 and then transmitted to a user's connected device for display. In other embodiments, data processing and report generation can be performed by one or more remote computing devices (e.g., remote servers, etc.) or remote computing services (e.g., cloud services) and delivered to the user's connected device for display. In such embodiments, the air pressure controller 100 can be configured to transmit sensor data and operational data to the remote computing devices/services for analysis and report generation. It should be appreciated that portions of data processing and report generation can also be performed by a combination of the air pressure controller 100 and a remote computing device/service, in some embodiments.

[0064] Referring now to FIGS. 26-28, in an embodiment, the support structure 10 can feature left and right (e.g., side-by-side) columns of zones 50 of air bladder cells (not shown), each column 12 being arranged, for example, on a left side or right side of a bed, such that a person 30 lay on one column of zones 50. As shown in FIGS. 26-28, a support structure 10 can include a left column 12A of zones 50, shown as LI, L2, and L3, as well as a right column 12B of zones 50, designated as Rl, R2, and R3. A single air pressure controller 100 can selectively supply air to one or more air bladder cells in one or more select zones 50 in either or both of the columns 12. The air pressure controller can selectively supply air from any combination of air pumps 120 to any combination of solenoid valves (as described above) as well as to any combination of zones 50. By way of example as shown in FIG. 26, the air pressure controller 100 can selectively supply air from four of six solenoid valves to four zones 50 indicated as LI and L2 for a person (not shown) lying on the left side of the bed, and to two zones 50 indicated as R2 and R3 for a person (not shown) lying on the right side of the bed. Likewise, as indicated in FIG. 27, the air pressure controller 100 can selectively supply air from five of six solenoids to five zones 50 indicated as LI and L3 for a person (not shown) lying on the left side of the bed, and to zones 50 indicated as Rl, R2 and R3 for a person (not shown) lying on the right side of the bed. Likewise, as indicated in FIG. 28, the air pressure controller 100 can selectively supply air from two of six solenoid valves to two zones 50 indicated as L3 for a person (not shown) lying on the left side of the bed, and to R2 for a person (not shown) lying on the right side of the bed. Any combination of air supply can be determined, including pre-determined, and the air pressure controller 100 components can adjust the air pressure in any and all air bladder cells as needed. In an embodiment, selective adjustment of air in select zones can be manually adjusted. In an embodiment, selective adjustment of air in select zones can be automatically adjusted based on user-preferences and/or other system settings, and sensed need and/or feedback from the plurality of sensors 92, including in feedback- based, dynamic adjustment. In an embodiment, a multi-column configuration of support structure 10 as described in FIGS. 26-28 can be supplied by two or more air pressure controllers. In an embodiment, a multi-column configuration of support structure 10 as described in FIGS. 26-28 can have any number and placement of zones and air bladder cells, as well as any number and placement of cushions, such as the foot cushion 42A and/or the head cushion 42B shown in FIGS. 26-28.

[0065] The foregoing description of embodiments and examples has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting to the forms described. Numerous modifications are possible in light of the above teachings. Some of those modifications have been discussed, and others will be understood by those skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best illustrate principles of various embodiments as are suited to particular uses contemplated. The scope is, of course, not limited to the examples set forth herein, but can be employed in any number of applications and equivalent devices by those of ordinary skill in the art. Rather it is hereby intended the scope of the disclosure to be defined by the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. A support structure for supporting a human body, the support structure comprising: a plurality of zones, each of the plurality of zones being adjacent another in a configuration to support at least a portion of the human body; at least one air bladder cell being disposed in each of the plurality of zones, each of the at least one air bladder cell being a hermetically sealed body having a hollow interior space and an inlet port; an air pressure controller, the air pressure controller comprising a plurality of air pumps, each of the plurality of air pumps being fluidly connected to a pliable manifold, the pliable manifold being fluidly connected to one or more of a plurality of solenoid valves, the air pressure controller also comprising a plurality of inlet tubes, each of the plurality of inlet tubes being fluidly connected at a first end to one of the plurality of solenoid valves and at a second end to the inlet port of one of the at least one air bladder cell; and a power supply connected to the air pressure controller.

2. The support structure of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of zones comprises one of a hip zone, a lumbar zone, and a shoulder zone.

3. The support structure of claim 2, wherein the lumbar zone further comprises an upper lumbar zone and a lower lumbar zone.

4. The support structure of claim 1, wherein the plurality of air pumps are DC powered.

5. The support structure of claim 1, wherein the pliable manifold comprises silicone.

6. The support structure of claim 1, wherein the air pressure controller is disposed in the support structure.

7. The support structure of claim 1, wherein the power supply includes a voltage converter.

8. The support structure of claim 1, wherein the air pressure controller further comprises an exhaust solenoid valve, the exhaust solenoid valve being in fluid communication with one or more of the at least one air bladder cell.

9. The support structure of claim 1, wherein the air pressure controller further comprises an electronic control board to selectively control one or more of the plurality of air pumps and one or more of the plurality of solenoid valves.

10. The support structure of claim 9, wherein the plurality of air pumps comprises a first air pump and a second air pump and the plurality of solenoid valves comprises a first solenoid valve and a second solenoid valve, the first solenoid valve is in fluid communication with a first air bladder cell disposed in a first zone of the plurality of zones and the second solenoid valve is in fluid communication with a second air bladder cell disposed in a second zone of the plurality of zones; and wherein the air pressure controller is to: (i) energize the first air pump and actuate the first solenoid valve in a first operational mode to direct air into the first air bladder cell in the first zone; and (ii) energize the first and second air pumps and actuate the first and second solenoid valves in a second operational mode to direct air into the first air bladder cell in the first zone and the second air bladder cell in the second zone.

11. The support structure of claim 1, wherein a number of air bladder cells is greater than a number of zones.

12. A support structure for supporting a human body, the support structure comprising: a plurality of zones, each of the plurality of zones being adjacent another in one of a plurality of side-by-side columns, each of the plurality of side-by-side columns configured to support at least a portion of a human body; at least one air bladder cell being disposed in each of the plurality of zones, each of the at least one air bladder cell being a hermetically sealed body having a hollow interior space and an inlet port; an air pressure controller, the air pressure controller comprising a plurality of air pumps, each of the plurality of air pumps being fluidly connected to a pliable manifold, the pliable manifold being fluidly connected to one or more of a plurality of solenoid valves, the air pressure controller further comprising a plurality of inlet tubes, each of the plurality of inlet tubes being fluidly connected at a first end to one of the plurality of solenoid valves and at a second end to the inlet port of one of the at least one air bladder cell; an electronic control board for selective control of each air pump of the plurality of air pumps and each solenoid valve of the plurality of solenoid valves; and a power supply connected to the air pressure controller.

13. The support structure of claim 12, wherein a quantity of the at least one air bladder cell is greater than a quantity of the plurality of zones.

14. The support structure of claim 12, wherein the electronic control board is housed in the air pressure controller.

15. The support structure of claim 14, wherein the electronic control board comprises wireless communication circuitry, the wireless communication circuitry for establishing a communication channel between the support structure and one or more of a smart phone, a tablet, a virtual assistant, speakers, lighting, window coverings, and a remote computing server.

16. The support structure of claim 12 , wherein the plurality of air pumps comprises a first air pump and a second air pump and the plurality of solenoid valves comprises a first solenoid valve and a second solenoid valve, the first solenoid valve is in fluid communication with a first air bladder cell disposed in a first zone of the plurality of zones and the second solenoid valve is in fluid communication with a second air bladder cell disposed in a second zone of the plurality of zones; and wherein the air pressure controller is to: (i) energize the first air pump and actuate the first solenoid valve in a first operational mode to direct air into the first air bladder cell in the first zone; and (ii) energize the first and second air pumps and actuate the first and second solenoid valves in a second operational mode to direct air into the first air bladder cell in the first zone and the second air bladder cell in the second zone.

17. The support structure of claim 12, wherein the pliable manifold comprises silicone.

18. The support structure of claim 12, wherein the air pressure controller is disposed in the support structure.

19. The support structure of claim 12, wherein one or more of the plurality of air pumps are powered by DC voltage; and wherein the power supply comprises an AC -DC voltage converter.

20. The support structure of claim 12, wherein the air pressure controller further comprises an exhaust solenoid valve, the exhaust solenoid valve being in fluid communication with one or more of the at least one air bladder cell.

21. A support structure for supporting a human body, the support structure comprising: a plurality of zones, each of the plurality of zones being adjacent another in a configuration to support at least a portion of the human body, and each of the plurality of zones being one of a hip zone, a lumbar zone, and a shoulder zone; at least one air bladder cell being disposed in each of the plurality of zones, of the at least one air bladder cell being a hermetically sealed body having a hollow interior space and an inlet port; a head zone disposed at a proximal end of the support structure and a foot zone disposed at a distal end of the support structure, each of the head zone and the foot zone comprising a non- inflatable cushion; an air pressure controller, the air pressure controller comprising a plurality of air pumps, each of the plurality of air pumps fluidly connected to a pliable manifold, the pliable manifold being fluidly connected to one or more of a plurality of solenoid valves, the air pressure controller further comprising a plurality of inlet tubes, each of the plurality of inlet tubes being fluidly connected at a first end to one of the plurality of solenoid valves and at a second end to the inlet port of one of the at least one air bladder cell; an electronic control board for selective control of each air pump of the plurality of air pumps and each solenoid valve of the plurality of solenoid valves; and a power supply connected to the air pressure controller.

22. The support structure of claim 21, wherein the pliable manifold comprises silicone.

23. The support structure of claim 21, wherein the air pressure controller is disposed in the support structure.

24. The support structure of claim 23, wherein the air pressure controller is encapsulated in a dampening material.

25. The support structure of claim 23, wherein the air pressure controller is disposed in the foot zone of the support structure.

26. The support structure of claim 21, wherein the electronic control board comprises wireless communication circuitry, the wireless communication circuitry for establishing a communication channel between the support structure and one or more of a smart phone, a tablet, a virtual assistant, speakers, lighting, window coverings, and a remote computing server.

27. The support structure of claim 21, wherein the air pressure controller further comprises an exhaust solenoid valve, the exhaust solenoid valve being in fluid communication with one or more of the at least one air bladder cell.