JP2016522068A - Support cushion with thermoelectric element and air passage and method for controlling the surface temperature of the support cushion - Google Patents

Abstract

A support cushion is provided for heating and cooling tailored to the lying user. The support cushion includes a body support layer, a plurality of thermoelectric elements disposed and configured to selectively heat or cool the body support layer, and disposed adjacent to the body support and operative to the thermoelectric element. Operatively connected to each of the outlet passages, and a heat transfer layer connected to the substrate, a base layer adjacent to the heat transfer layer and opposite the body support layer and defining one or more inlet passages and outlet passages One or more fans. A method for controlling the surface temperature of the support cushion is also provided.

Description

(Related application)
This application claims priority from US Provisional Application No. 61 / 836,268, filed June 18, 2013, and US Provisional Application No. 61 / 836,268, filed June 18, 2014. is there. The contents of these provisional applications are incorporated herein by this reference.

  The present invention relates to a support cushion and a method for controlling the surface temperature of the support cushion. In particular, the present invention relates to a support cushion (eg, a mattress assembly) that uses a thermoelectric element and an internal air passage to selectively heat or cool the surface of the support cushion.

  One characteristic of sleep that is sufficiently relaxing is the comfort of sleep. Medical studies show that sleep debt can have a negative impact on longevity, productivity, mental, emotional and physical health. Chronic sleep deprivation leads to weight gain and, more specifically, has been shown to affect not only how the body digests and accumulates carbohydrates, but also affects hormone levels and appetite . In addition, sleep deprivation can make you feel impatient, irritated, unable to concentrate, and may be uncomfortable. Therefore, some researchers make suggestions that link sleep deprivation with on-site accidents, traffic accidents, and general inattention in the afternoon. In addition, sleep irregularities lead to high blood pressure, increased stress hormones, and arrhythmias. According to recent research, lack of sleep can affect immune function and increase the risk of developing diseases such as cancer. Overall, researchers suggest that $ 63 billion is lost annually in terms of productivity lost due to these various effects. Thus, it would be highly desirable and beneficial to have a support cushion that improves sleep comfort and reduces personal sleep blockage.

  The present invention encompasses a support cushion and a method for controlling the surface temperature of the support cushion. In particular, the present invention relates to a support cushion (eg, a mattress assembly) that uses a thermoelectric element and an internal air passage to selectively heat or cool the surface of the support cushion. Therefore, according to the support cushion of the present invention, the user can adjust the comfort level including the comfort of sleep by controlling the surface temperature of the support cushion.

  In one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a support cushion having the form of a mattress assembly is provided that includes a body support layer having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The mattress assembly further comprises a plurality of thermoelectric elements arranged and configured to selectively heat or cool the first surface of the body support layer. The mattress assembly further comprises a heat transfer layer and a base layer. The heat transfer layer is disposed adjacent to the second surface of the body support layer and is operatively connected to the thermoelectric element. The base layer is disposed adjacent to the heat transfer layer and opposite the body support layer.

  In addition to being disposed adjacent to the heat transfer layer, the base layer is disposed in an inlet path fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer, and is fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer and spaced a predetermined distance from the inlet path. Defining an exit path. The mattress assembly further comprises a fan operatively connected to the outlet path. As will be described in detail below, the fan has the function of sucking a certain amount of air from the inlet passage, sending it through the heat transfer layer to the outlet passage, and releasing it from the mattress assembly.

  The body support layer of the mattress assembly generally consists of a flexible foam that can suitably distribute pressure from the user's body or a portion thereof to the entire body support layer. In some embodiments, the flexible foam is a viscoelastic foam that has the desired density and hardness and that can uniformly absorb pressure and be evenly distributed throughout the body support layer of the mattress assembly. In this regard, in some embodiments, the body support layer may be further covered by a comfort layer. The comfort layer is disposed on the first side of the body support layer and provides additional comfort to the user's body or part thereof on the mattress assembly. In some embodiments, the comfort layer comprises viscoelastic foam or other foam, but typically these densities are less than the density of the body support layer of the mattress assembly. This can provide a soft surface to the overlying user and a sufficiently soft barrier between the user's body and the thermoelectric element of the mattress assembly. The position of the thermoelectric element will be described in detail below.

  The thermoelectric element of the mattress assembly is disposed within the mattress assembly and is configured to allow a user to control the temperature of the first surface (or top surface) of the body support layer of the mattress assembly. For example, in some embodiments, the thermoelectric element comprises a plurality of Peltier elements. The Peltier element has a certain amount of current flowing in the Peltier element in the first direction, drawing heat from the first surface of the body support layer and transferring it toward the second surface of the body support layer. The first surface is cooled. Similarly, in some embodiments, a certain amount of current flows through the Peltier element in a second direction (e.g., the reverse direction) and draws heat from the second surface of the body support layer to cause the first surface of the body support layer to The first surface of the body support layer is heated by transmitting to the direction.

  In some embodiments, the Peltier elements 30 are connected in series to enhance the effect of heating and cooling the Peltier elements. As a result, the Peltier elements are continuously arranged and can be heated or cooled over the entire surface of the body support layer or a desired portion thereof. In other embodiments, the Peltier elements are arranged in an array. As a result, the Peltier element group can be arranged in a desired region of the body support layer. In addition, using the Peltier device group, select the region of the body support that is in contact with a specific part of the body of the user in the prone position that is overheated or cooled (for example, the user's torso and feet, respectively) Can be heated or cooled automatically. In some embodiments, in order to provide a mattress assembly in which the Peltier element can be easily removed, the mattress assembly comprises a region of the body support layer and a region of the corresponding heat transfer layer, each of which is a Peltier element. One or more detachable portions may be provided to accommodate the array of elements. In some embodiments, the Peltier element comprises a discrete Peltier element or can be individually addressed to increase the degree of selective heating and cooling control of the first side of the body support layer. There are or both.

  To facilitate heating and cooling of the first side of the body support layer, each Peltier element is typically provided across the width of the body support layer of the mattress assembly. Thereby, one side of each Peltier element is arranged above the first surface of the body support portion and adjacent to the first surface, and the other side of each Peltier element is below the second surface of the body support portion. Then, it is arranged adjacent to the second surface. In these embodiments, the body support layer typically defines a plurality of slots (elongate holes). Each slot includes a portion of a Peltier element that transfers heat from one side of the body support layer to the other. In other words, in some embodiments, the Peltier element is disposed adjacent to the body support layer and from one side of the body support layer through the interior of the body support layer to the other side of the body support layer. Directly transfers heat up to.

  In addition to being configured to selectively heat or cool the first surface of the body support, the thermoelectric element is typically operatively connected to a heat transfer layer comprising a porous flexible foam. ing. In some embodiments, the heat transfer layer of the mattress assembly is comprised of a porous viscoelastic foam, in which at least a portion of the Peltier element adjacent (or close to) the second surface of the body support layer. In. By operatively connecting a Peltier element to the heat transfer layer, the heat transfer layer provides structural support to the Peltier element and the overlying body support layer, in addition to the heat generated by the Peltier element. It provides an open environment that can transfer (eg, by diffusion of heat from the Peltier element to the porous flexible foam of the heat transfer layer). Heat can be transferred from the heat transfer layer to the outside by transferring heat from the Peltier element to the porous flexible foam of the heat transfer layer and moving a certain amount of air through the porous flexible foam of the heat transfer layer.

  Returning to the base layer of the mattress assembly, as already mentioned, the base layer defines an inlet path fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer and an outlet path fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer and operatively connected to the fan. To do. The base layer also generally consists of a flexible foam. In some embodiments, the porosity of the flexible foam constituting the base layer is smaller than the porosity of the flexible foam constituting the heat transfer layer located on the upper side. In this regard, when a fan operatively connected to the outlet passage is driven, the fan draws air directly into the inlet passage, and sends air through the basement into the outlet passage for release from the mattress assembly. Absent. Instead, the fan forms an air passage by providing the mattress assembly with a base layer made of a soft foam having a lower porosity than the soft foam constituting the heat transfer layer. In that passage, air enters the inlet passage through the inlet, enters the base layer, moves, enters the heat transfer layer with a higher porosity than the base layer, absorbs some of the heat generated by the Peltier element, and subsequently It moves from the heat transfer layer to the exit path and is released from the mattress assembly.

  In some embodiments, for a mattress assembly of the present invention that utilizes a base layer having a porosity that is less than the porosity of an adjacent heat transfer layer, the base layer has a head portion and a foot portion, and the foot through the base layer. A mattress assembly is provided that includes one or more inlet passages extending longitudinally from the portion and each operatively connected to a fan. For example, in some embodiments of the mattress assembly of the present invention, a mattress assembly with a base layer comprising three inlet passages extending longitudinally through the base layer from an inlet disposed at a head end of the base layer, and the base layer A mattress assembly is provided having two outlet passages extending longitudinally through the base layer from an outlet disposed at the foot end of the mattress. More specifically, in these embodiments, a first inlet channel is disposed on the first side of the base layer, a second inlet channel is disposed in the center of the base layer, and is opposite to the first inlet channel. A third inlet path is disposed on the second side of the. A first outlet channel is disposed between the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel, and a second outlet channel is disposed between the second inlet channel and the third inlet channel. In this regard, when a fan attached to each outlet channel is driven, air is sucked into each inlet channel, which is then part of the heat transfer layer and into a particular inlet channel and its inlet channel. It moves to the part located between the nearest exit passage and enters the exit passage and is released from the mattress assembly.

  In some embodiments of the mattress assembly of the present invention, the inlet and outlet channels included in the exemplary base layer have the form of hollow (or recessed) channels that extend longitudinally through the base layer, and each mattress assembly The maximum amount of air can flow through the channels and the heat transfer layer. In other embodiments of the mattress assembly of the present invention, flexible foam inserts having a porosity greater than the porosity of the base layer may be provided in each inlet passage and each outlet passage of the base layer. By providing a flexible foam insert in each inlet channel and each outlet channel, a base layer is provided in which the inlet channel and outlet channel are essentially filled with flexible foam. This increases the degree of support for the heat transfer layer while allowing a sufficient amount of air to flow into the inlet channel and move to the heat transfer layer and further to the outlet channel to remove heat from the heat transfer layer and mattress assembly. Can be dissipated.

  For example, in some embodiments of the mattress assembly of the present invention utilizing a flexible foam insert disposed in each inlet and outlet passage of the base layer, the foam extends longitudinally through the first side of the base layer and is flexible foam. A first inlet passage containing an insert; a second inlet passage extending longitudinally through a second side opposite the first side and containing a flexible foam insert; a first inlet passage and a second A mattress assembly is provided having an outlet passage extending longitudinally through the base layer and including a flexible foam insert therebetween. In such an embodiment, driving a fan operatively connected to the outlet passages draws air into the flexible foam insert of each inlet passage. Air then flows from the inlet passages located on the first and second sides of the mattress assembly, through the heat transfer layer, into the flexible foam insert in the outlet passage located in the center of the mattress assembly, and Released from the mattress assembly.

  In some embodiments, as another example of a mattress assembly that utilizes flexible foam inserts provided in the inlet and outlet passages of the base layer, one or more inlet passages and outlet passages, respectively, are exemplary. Substantially rectangular regions located at the head end and foot end of the mattress assembly, each including a flexible foam insert having a porosity that is less than the porosity of the base layer. In this regard, in these embodiments, driving a fan operatively connected to the outlet channel causes air to enter the flexible foam insert in the inlet channel and subsequently enter the heat transfer layer along the heat transfer layer. And then enters and is released from the flexible foam insert in the exit channel located at the foot end of the mattress assembly.

  In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the base layer of the mattress assembly includes an inlet channel and an outlet that do not extend from the first and second ends of the base layer (eg, from the head end or the foot end of the mattress assembly). Road. Instead, in such embodiments, the base layer has one or more inlet passages extending from the bottom surface of the base layer to the heat transfer layer and a predetermined length from each of the one or more inlet passages extending from the bottom surface of the base layer to the heat transfer layer. One or more outlet passages spaced apart from each other. For example, in such an embodiment, a first inlet passage that extends longitudinally through a first side of the base layer, a second inlet passage that extends longitudinally through a second side opposite the first side of the base layer, and a first A mattress assembly is provided having an outlet passage disposed between the first inlet passage and the second inlet passage. In this embodiment, the first inlet passage, the second inlet passage and the outlet passage all do not extend from the head end or the foot end of the base layer, and do not contact any of them. Instead, the first inlet passage, the second inlet passage, and the outlet passage each extend from the bottom surface of the base layer to the heat transfer layer, so that air flows into the inlet passage from below the base layer, and the upper heat path It flows to the transfer layer and travels through the heat transfer layer and is sucked back into the exit channel and released from the mattress assembly by a fan activated to the exit channel.

  In other embodiments of the mattress assembly of the present invention comprising an inlet passage and an outlet passage extending from the bottom surface of the base layer to the heat transfer layer, the inlet passage, the outlet passage or both do not extend longitudinally through the base layer, Instead, it has the form of a cylindrical gap (space, void). In some embodiments, at least two cylindrical gaps provided on the first side of the base layer as inlet passages and at least two on the second side opposite to the first side of the base layer as inlet passages A columnar gap and an elongated channel as an outlet channel extending longitudinally through the base layer between an inlet channel provided on the first side of the base layer and an inlet channel provided on the second side of the base layer A mattress assembly is provided. In other embodiments, through the base layer (e.g., through the center of the base layer) and at least two cylindrical gaps as exit passages disposed on the first side of the base layer, the second side of the base layer, or both A mattress assembly is provided having an elongated channel as a longitudinally extending inlet channel. In yet another embodiment, at least two cylindrical gaps as outlet passages disposed on the first side of the base layer and outlet passages disposed on the second side opposite to the first side of the base layer. A mattress assembly is provided having at least two cylindrical gaps and at least two cylindrical gaps as inlet passages disposed in the central portion of the base layer.

  In some embodiments, with respect to the mattress assembly of the present invention that utilizes a base layer having an inlet passage and an outlet passage extending from the bottom surface of the base layer to the heat transfer layer, the porosity of the base layer is determined for each of the inlet passage and the outlet passage. A flexible foam insert with a greater porosity is placed. In such an embodiment, as in the previous embodiment, when a fan operatively connected to each outlet passage is driven, air is drawn into the flexible foam insert located in each inlet passage to transfer heat. Enters the layer, moves through the heat transfer layer, and enters the flexible foam insert located in each outlet passage. However, in other embodiments of the mattress assembly, the porosity of the flexible foam inserts disposed in the inlet and outlet passages is the same as, or at least comparable to, the porosity of the base layer. In these embodiments, a barrier layer is used to cover one or more portions of the base layer to draw air into each inlet channel, heat transfer layer, and each outlet channel. In some embodiments, the barrier layer has a continuous panel provided on the side of the base layer and on the top and / or bottom of the base layer.

  Regardless of the particular arrangement and configuration of the mattress assembly base layer, each mattress assembly of the present invention includes a power source for supplying current to a plurality of thermoelectric elements, a fan attached to each outlet passage, and a plurality of thermoelectric elements. A controller for controlling a current supplied to each fan; By providing a controller in the mattress assembly, not only can the amount of air drawn through the mattress assembly be controlled by controlling the amount of current supplied to each fan, but the amount of current supplied to the thermoelectric element The amount can be controlled to heat or cool the first side of the body support layer to a desired degree. For example, in one embodiment, the controller is configured to automatically control the current supplied to the Peltier element so that when the temperature of the first surface of the body support reaches a certain temperature. In the Peltier element, current can be supplied in a specific direction to heat or cool the first surface of the body support. As another example, in some embodiments, the controller may allow a Peltier element to have a predetermined time (eg, 8 hours of sleep, or a time equivalent to the time a user typically spends at a particular stage of sleep (eg, REM sleep)). It is configured to supply current.

  In some embodiments, the mattress assembly is operatively connected to the body support layer, the heat transfer layer, or both of the mattress assembly to increase the degree of control over the thermoelectric elements provided in the mattress assembly of the present invention. It further comprises one or more features that provide input to the controller. In some embodiments, such features include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor sends pressure feedback to the controller to heat or cool the mattress assembly when the user is lying on the mattress or applying a certain amount of pressure to the mattress. So that the controller can do this automatically. In other embodiments, the exemplary mattress assembly includes a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor sends temperature feedback to the controller such that the controller selectively heats or cools the first surface of the body support in response to the received temperature feedback to maintain the desired temperature. . In some embodiments, these desired temperature or pressure feedback settings are input directly to the controller and adjusted by the controller. In other embodiments, the settings may be sent from a remote controller to the controller. The remote controller is operatively connected to the controller to allow the user to adjust the temperature of the first side of the body support layer from a remote location to a desired temperature.

  In some embodiments, an improvement to the mattress assembly of the present invention provides a mattress assembly with additional features to further enhance the user comfort and convenience of the mattress assembly. For example, each mattress assembly of the present invention generally comprises at least three layers: a body support layer, a heat transfer layer and a base layer. In some embodiments, additional layers are incorporated into the mattress assembly to improve comfort, improve support for the mattress assembly, or both. For example, in certain embodiments, the mattress assembly includes a foundation that supports a body support layer, a heat transfer layer, and / or a base layer. In some embodiments, the foundation may be used as a housing for a fan that is operatively connected to the exit path of the mattress assembly.

  For the support cushion of the present invention, an exemplary support cushion may be used as part of a method for controlling the surface temperature of the support cushion. In some embodiments, a method of controlling the surface temperature of a support cushion includes a body support layer, a heat transfer layer, and a heat transfer layer disposed adjacent to and opposite the heat transfer layer. Providing a support cushion with a base layer having a porosity less than the porosity of the substrate. The base layer further includes one or more inlet passages fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer, and an outlet passage fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer and disposed at a predetermined distance from each of the one or more inlet passages. Is defined. The mattress assembly is also utilized as part of the method and includes a fan operatively connected to each of the one or more outlet passages. In this regard, in some embodiments of the method for controlling the surface temperature of the support cushion, each fan is supplied with a current so that each fan draws a certain amount of air into each inlet passage and It is sent from the path to the heat transfer layer and then through the heat transfer layer into the exit path, thereby controlling the surface temperature of the support cushion. In some embodiments of the present invention, the support cushion further comprises a plurality of Peltier elements arranged and configured to selectively heat or cool the first surface of the body support layer. In such an embodiment, current is supplied to a plurality of Peltier elements, so that when the current is supplied in the first direction, the surface temperature of the body support layer decreases, and when the current is supplied in the second direction, The surface temperature of the support layer may be increased.

  Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the description and drawings, which are non-limiting examples herein.

1 is a perspective view of an exemplary support cushion having a mattress assembly configuration manufactured in accordance with the present invention. FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary mattress assembly shown in FIG. 1 taken along line 2-2. FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary mattress assembly shown in FIG. 1 taken along line 2-2. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary mattress assembly shown in FIG. 1 taken along line 4-4. FIG. 2 is a perspective exploded view of the exemplary mattress assembly shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a perspective exploded view of another exemplary mattress assembly made in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective exploded view of another exemplary mattress assembly made in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective exploded view of another exemplary mattress assembly made in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary mattress assembly shown in FIG. 8 taken along line 9-9. FIG. 6 is a perspective exploded view of another exemplary mattress assembly made in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary mattress assembly shown in FIG. 10 taken along line 11-11. FIG. 6 is a perspective exploded view of another exemplary mattress assembly made in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary mattress assembly shown in FIG. 12 taken along line 13-13. FIG. 6 is a perspective exploded view of another exemplary mattress assembly made in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary mattress assembly shown in FIG. 14 taken along line 15-15. FIG. 6 is a perspective exploded view of another exemplary mattress assembly made in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary mattress assembly shown in FIG. 16 taken along line 17-17. FIG. 6 is a perspective exploded view of another exemplary mattress assembly made in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary mattress assembly shown in FIG. 18 taken along line 19-19. FIG. 6 is a perspective exploded view of another exemplary mattress assembly made in accordance with the present invention. 1 is a perspective view of a cover assembly for covering an exemplary mattress assembly of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary support cushion manufactured in accordance with the present invention for use in a chair. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing input and output of an exemplary controller used in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary remote controller for controlling the surface temperature of a support cushion manufactured in accordance with the present invention.

  The present invention encompasses a support cushion and a method for controlling the surface temperature of the support cushion. In particular, the present invention relates to a support cushion (eg, a mattress assembly) that uses a thermoelectric element and an internal air passage to selectively heat or cool the surface of the support cushion. Therefore, according to the support cushion of the present invention, the user can adjust the comfort (including the comfort of sleep) by controlling the surface temperature of the support cushion.

  With reference to FIGS. 1-5, in an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a support cushion having the form of a mattress assembly 10 provided with a body support layer 20 is provided. The body support layer 20 has a first surface 22 and a second surface 24 that faces the first surface 22. The mattress assembly 10 further comprises a plurality of thermoelectric elements 30 having the form of Peltier elements. The thermoelectric element 30 is arranged and configured to selectively heat or cool the first surface of the body support layer 20. The mattress assembly also includes a heat transfer layer 40 and a base layer 50. The heat transfer layer 40 is disposed adjacent to the second surface 24 of the body support layer 20 and is operatively (operably) connected to the thermoelectric element 30. The base layer 50 is disposed adjacent to the heat transfer layer 40 and facing the body support layer 20, and is supported by the foundation 70.

  In addition to being disposed adjacent to the heat transfer layer 40, the base layer 50 defines three inlet passages 52a, 52b, 52c. The inlet passages 52a, 52b, and 52c extend in the longitudinal direction from the inlets 53a, 53b, and 53c that are located at the head side end portion 56 of the base layer 50, respectively. The inlet passages 52a, 52b, and 52c are fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer 40, respectively. Further, the base layer 50 defines a first outlet passage 54a and a second outlet passage 54b. The outlet passages 54a and 54b extend in the longitudinal direction from the outlets 55a and 55b positioned at the foot side end portion 58 of the base layer 50, respectively. The outlet passages 54a and 54b are fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer 40, but are arranged at a predetermined distance from each of the inlet passages 52a, 52b, and 52c. Further, the mattress assembly 10 is provided with a first fan 60a operatively connected to the first outlet passage 54a and a second fan 60b operatively connected to the second outlet passage 54b. ing. As will be described in more detail below, each of the fans 60a, 60b draws a certain amount of air from the inlet passages 52a, 52b, 52c and passes the air through the heat transfer layer 40 to the outlet passages 54a, 54b, respectively. It has the function of feeding and discharging from the mattress assembly 10.

  The body support layer 20 of the mattress assembly 10 generally comprises a continuous layer of flexible foam that suitably distributes pressure from the user's body or a portion thereof to the entire body support layer 20. Examples of viscoelastic foam include, but are not limited to, latex foam, reticulated or non-reticulated viscoelastic foam (sometimes referred to as shape memory foam or low resilience foam), reticulated or non-reticulated non-viscoelastic foam Polyurethane foams, foamed polymer foams (eg, foamed ethylene vinyl acetate, polypropylene, polystyrene or polyethylene). In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-5, the body support layer 20 is comprised of a viscoelastic foam that has low resilience and sufficient density and hardness, thereby absorbing pressure evenly and reducing the mattress assembly 10. It can be uniformly distributed throughout the body support layer 20. Generally, the viscoelastic foam has a hardness of about 10N or more and about 80N or less. Hardness is measured by applying pressure from a plate to a sample of material at a temperature close to room temperature (ie, 21 ° C. to 23 ° C.) and compressing at least 40% of the original thickness of the material. At this time, 40% compression is maintained for a certain period of time. This measurement method is defined in the hardness measurement standard of International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 2439. In some embodiments, the viscoelastic foam has a hardness of about 10N, about 20N, about 30N, about 40N, about 50N, about 60N, about 70N, or about 80N to achieve the desired comfort and body fit To do.

The viscoelastic foam described herein for use in the mattress assembly 10 may have a density that facilitates obtaining the desired comfort and body fit, in addition to increased resistance of the material. In some embodiments, the density of the viscoelastic foam used for the body support layer 20 is about 30 kg / m ³ or more and about 150 kg / m ³ or less. In some embodiments, the density of the viscoelastic foam used in the body support layer 20 of the mattress assembly 10 is about 30 kg / m ³ , about 40 kg / m ³ , about 50 kg / m ³ , about 60 kg / m ³ , about 70 kg / m ³ , about 80 kg / m ³ , about 90 kg / m ³ , about 100 kg / m ³ , about 110 kg / m ³ , about 120 kg / m ³ , about 130 kg / m ³ , about 140 kg / m ³ or about 150 kg / m is ^3. Of course, the selection of a viscoelastic foam having a specific density will affect other properties of the foam (eg, hardness, how the foam responds to pressure, overall feel of the foam). However, it is understood that a viscoelastic foam having the desired density and hardness can be easily selected for a particular application or desired mattress assembly. Further, the body support layer of the mattress assembly need not consist of a continuous layer of flexible foam, and can be used in conventional mattresses such as spring-based mattresses without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. It is understood that it can also have a form.

With further reference to FIGS. 1-5, the body support layer 20 of the mattress assembly 10 is further covered by a comfort portion (or comfort layer) 72 disposed on the body support layer 20. The comfort layer 72 provides a level of comfort to the user's body or part thereof lying on the mattress assembly 10. The comfort layer 72 may be made of a viscoelastic foam. However, the comfort layer 72 typically has a lower density, hardness, or both than the body support layer 20 of the mattress assembly 10. As a result, the surface on which the user's body or part thereof lies is softer, and a sufficiently soft barrier is provided between the user's body and the Peltier element 30 of the mattress assembly 10, as will be described in detail below. It is done. For example, in one embodiment, the mattress assembly 10 includes a body support layer 20 made of a viscoelastic foam having a density of about 80 kg / m ³ and a hardness of about 13N. On the other hand, the comfort layer 72 is made of a viscoelastic foam having a density of about 35 kg / m ³ and a hardness of about 10N.

  In further relation to the body support layer 20 shown in FIGS. 1-5, the composition of the flexible foam material utilized for the body support layer 20 is generally the heat transfer of the mattress assembly 10, as will be described in detail below. The composition of the layer 40 is different. However, an exemplary body support layer can be composed of one or more different layers or additional layers having various densities and hardnesses. For example, the layer of high resilience polyurethane foam may be secured to the second surface of the high resilience viscoelastic foam layer used in the body support. Such multi-layered body supports are described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 7,469,437, U.S. Patent No. 7,507,468, U.S. Patent No. This is described in the specification of / 0252562. These specifications are incorporated herein by reference.

  For the thermoelectric elements included in the support cushion of the present invention, various thermoelectric elements can be incorporated into the support cushion to heat or cool the surface of the exemplary support cushion. Examples of thermoelectric elements are resistance heaters or other thermoelectric elements that change electrical energy into heat. In the exemplary mattress assembly 10 shown in FIGS. 1-5, as described above, the thermoelectric element is disposed within the mattress assembly 10 to control the temperature of the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20 of the mattress assembly 10 to the user. Is a Peltier element 30 configured to be controlled. When the temperature of the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20 is controlled, the temperature of the comfort layer 72 of the mattress assembly 10 proximate to the first surface 22 can be changed. A Peltier element 30 (sometimes also referred to as a Peltier device, Peltier heater, Peltier heat pump, solid state cooling device or thermoelectric heat pump) passes a certain amount of current from one end of the body support layer 20 of the mattress assembly. It is a solid active heat pump that transfers heat to the other end and produces heat at the Peltier effect, in other words, at the point of contact between two energized metals.

  In the Peltier device 30 shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, two different metal contacts have the form of an n-type semiconductor (or n-type device) 32 and a p-type semiconductor (or p-type device 34). In these Peltier elements 30, a Peltier effect occurs when a certain amount of current flows through the n-type element 32 in the first direction through the Peltier element 30 and passes through the metal wiring 33 to the p-type element 34. At this time, electrons move in the direction opposite to the direction of current in the n-type element 32, and holes move in the direction of current in the p-type element. As a result, heat is removed from the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20 of the mattress assembly 10 and the heat is transferred toward the second surface 24 of the body support layer 20. Similarly, when a certain amount of current is caused to flow in the second direction (for example, in the reverse direction) through the Peltier element 30 and the n-type element 32 and the p-type element 34 using the Peltier element 30, the reverse Peltier effect can be obtained. The Peltier element 30 is used to draw heat from the second surface 24 of the body support layer 20 and move the heat toward the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20, thereby Surface 22 can be heated. For additional information and guidance regarding the Peltier effect (such as the types of Peltier elements that can be provided on the support cushion to obtain the Peltier effect), see US 2012/0198616 and US 2012/0060885. Please refer to the specification. These documents are incorporated herein by reference.

  As shown in FIG. 3, in order to facilitate heating and cooling of the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20, the Peltier element 30 is provided over the width direction of the body support layer 20 of the mattress assembly 10. Yes. As a result, the upper portion 31 of each Peltier element 30 is positioned adjacent to and above the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20, and the metal wiring 33 of the Peltier element 30 is connected to the second surface 24 of the body support layer 20. Located adjacent to and below it. Although not shown in FIG. 3, the body support layer 20 is typically provided with slots (elongated holes) so that the Peltier element 30 can penetrate (pass through) the body support layer 20. As a result, a part of the Peltier element 30 including the n-type element 32 and the p-type element 34 can be disposed in the body support layer 20 and penetrate the body support layer 20, and from one surface of the body support layer 20 to the other Can transfer heat to the surface. In other words, as best shown in FIG. 2, the Peltier element 30 is disposed adjacent to the body support layer 20 and from one side of the body support layer 20 through the body support layer 20 to the other of the body support layer 20. The heat is directly transferred to the heat transfer layer 40.

  Referring to FIGS. 2 to 5, in order to enhance the effect of heating and cooling of Peltier element 30, Peltier element 30 is connected in series. The Peltier element 30 is continuously arranged, and can be heated or cooled sufficiently uniformly and continuously over the entire first surface 22 of the body support layer 20 or a part thereof. In this regard, as best shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the Peltier elements 30 are arranged as arrays 35a, 35b, 35c, and 35d. As a result, a group of Peltier elements 30 are arranged in a predetermined region group of the body support layer 20 and are used to selectively heat or cool a certain region of the body support layer 20. In the mattress assembly 10, the arrays 35a, 35b, 35c, and 35d are provided on the detachable portions 12a, 12b, 16a, and 16b of the mattress assembly 10, respectively. The detachable parts 12a, 12b, 16a, 16b are composed of a part of the body support layer 20 and a corresponding part of the heat transfer layer 40, and the user can detach the Peltier element from the mattress assembly 10 as necessary. 30 can be easily removed (for example, to repair or replace the Peltier element 30). Further, the removable parts 12a, 12b, 16a, 16b are each disposed in the mattress assembly 10. As a result, the array 35a, 35b, 35c, 35d of the Peltier element 30 is in contact with a specific part (for example, the user's torso vs. leg) that is easily heated or cooled by the user's body in the prone position. For example, as described in detail below, in some embodiments, the arrays 35a, 35b, 35c, 35d of Peltier elements 30 are individually addressable so that they are in a supine or prone position. While the arrays 35a and 35b in contact with the lying user's torso or head are cooled, the arrays 35c and 35d located close to the user's feet lying in the supine or prone position can be heated. . Of course, to increase the amount of control over selective heating and cooling of the first surface 22, each row or column of Peltier elements 30 in the arrays 35a, 35b, 35c, 35d may be individually addressable. . In this case, a specific part is selectively heated or cooled on the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20, thereby heating or cooling a specific part of the user's body or closest to the user's body. It is possible to selectively heat or cool only the Peltier element 30 that is in operation (for example, when the user is lying on the Peltier element 30 side). Similarly, although not shown in FIGS. 2-5, the Peltier elements used in the mattress assembly of the present invention are mutually connected to further increase the amount of control over heating and cooling of the first surface of the body support layer. It is understood that discrete Peltier elements that are not connected in series can also be provided.

  With reference to FIGS. 2-3, the Peltier element 30 is configured to selectively heat or cool the first surface of the body support layer 20, and in addition, the heat transfer layer 40 of the mattress assembly 10. Is operatively connected to. In particular, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the heat transfer layer 40 of the mattress assembly 10 comprises a substantially uniform layer of porous viscoelastic foam. The porous viscoelastic foam is fixed to the second surface 24 of the body support layer 20 and covers the entire second surface 24. The porous viscoelastic foam of the heat transfer layer 40 includes the metal wiring 33 of the Peltier element 30 near the second surface 24 of the body support layer 20. In this regard, by operatively connecting the Peltier element 30 to the heat transfer layer 40, the porous viscoelastic foam of the heat transfer layer 40 provides a structural support for the Peltier element 30 and the body support layer 20 thereon. Providing a support and further providing an open environment. As will be described in detail below, for example, the heat generated by the Peltier element 30 by the airflow passing through the Peltier element 30 through this open environment provided by the porous viscoelastic foam of the heat transfer layer 40 is provided. Can communicate to an open environment.

  Further, with respect to the porous viscoelastic foam included in the heat transfer layer 40 of the mattress assembly, of course, the heat transfer layer need not be composed of viscoelastic foam, but any number of porous flexible foams can be used to create the Peltier element. A heat transfer layer having a porosity sufficient to dissipate the heat generated can be produced. In this regard, “porous flexible foam” (whether or not viscoelastic) is generally a cell (porous, breathable) in which at least some of the foam cells (bubbles) are essentially skeletal. ) Refers to a form having a foam structure. In other words, at least some of the cells of the porous foam are each defined by a plurality of windows having openings, the windows are covered by the cell struts, and the cell windows are not completely present (leaving only the cell struts). ) Or almost missing. In some embodiments, when at least 50% of the cell window is not present (ie, a window with an opening therethrough, or a window that is completely missing and only the cell struts remain), the foam is " It is said to be “porous”. Such structures prevent the cell window material from being completely formed by destroying or otherwise removing the cell window material using chemical or mechanical means, or during the foam manufacturing process. Can be produced. In some embodiments of the present invention, when referring to flexible foam, “porous” and “reticulated” may be used interchangeably.

  Regardless of the method of manufacturing the porous foam, the porous foam has properties suitable for use in the heat transfer layer 40 of the mattress assembly 10 due to its open cell structure. For example, the performance of flowing fluid through the porous foam is improved, thereby improving the performance of sending air to the heat transfer layer 40 of the mattress assembly 10, passing through the heat transfer layer 40, and releasing from the heat transfer layer 40. . About this, as a part of the function which cools the 1st surface of the body support layer 20 by the metal wiring 33 of the Peltier device 30 in the porous viscoelastic foam of the heat transfer layer 40, the Peltier device 30 The heat transferred to the heat transfer layer 40 can be easily dissipated through the porous viscoelastic foam of the heat transfer layer 40. When transferring heat to the open environment of the heat transfer layer 40, heat can be easily transferred from the heat transfer layer 40 by sending a certain amount of air through the porous viscoelastic foam of the heat transfer layer 40. In the mattress assembly 10, the pore size of the heat transfer layer 40, specifically the porous viscoelastic foam of the heat transfer layer 40, is about 10 ppi (pores per inch), which allows a sufficient amount of air to be transferred to the heat transfer layer 40. , And pass through the heat transfer layer 40 to be released from the heat transfer layer 40. However, of course, the pore size (pore size) present in the exemplary heat transfer layer foam may be adjusted as necessary without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. A specific amount of air can be easily delivered through an exemplary heat transfer layer and / or a specific mattress assembly.

  Referring to FIGS. 1-5, as already mentioned, the base layer 50 of the mattress assembly 10 defines inlet passages 52a, 52b, 52c that are spaced apart from one another. The inlet passages 52a, 52b, and 52c extend in the longitudinal direction from the head side end portion 56 and are recessed. In addition, the base layer 50 defines two separate outlet passages 54a, 54b. The outlet passages 54a and 54b extend in the longitudinal direction from the foot side end of the base layer 50 and are recessed. The first outlet passage 54a is between the first inlet passage 52a and the second inlet passage 52b. The second outlet passage 54b is provided between the second inlet passage 52b and the third inlet passage 52c. Each of the inlet passages 52 a, 52 b, 52 c and the outlet passages 54 a, 54 b extend from the bottom surface 59 of the base layer 50 to the bottom surface 44 of the heat transfer layer 40 over the width of the base layer 50. In this manner, the inlet passages 52a, 52b, 52c and the outlet passages 54a, 54b are recessed, so that the inlet passages 52a, 52b, 52c and the outlet passages 54a, 54b of the base layer 50 are fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer 40, respectively. Is done.

  The base layer 50 is generally made of a flexible foam. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the base layer 50 is made of standard polyurethane foam. However, the porosity of the polyurethane foam used in the base layer 50 is smaller than the porosity of the porous viscoelastic foam of the heat transfer layer 40 provided immediately above the base layer 50. In this regard, when the first fan 60a operatively connected to the first outlet passage 54a is driven and the second fan 60b operatively connected to the second outlet passage 54b is driven, The first fan 60 a and the second fan 60 b directly suck air, move it to the inlet passages 52 a, 52 b, 52 c, move it into the outlet passages 54 a, 54 b through the base layer 50, and release it from the mattress assembly 10. There is no. Instead, by providing the mattress assembly 10 with a base layer 50 having a porosity smaller than the porosity of the heat transfer layer 40, the fans 60a and 60b serve to create an air flow path. In the flow path, the air is sucked through the respective inlets 53a, 53b, and 53c by the first fan 60a and the second fan 60b, enters the inlet paths 52a, 52b, and 52c, enters the base layer 50, and is empty. The heat transfer layer 40 having a porosity higher than that of the base layer 50 enters the heat transfer layer 40 to absorb the heat generated by the Peltier element 30 and dissipate the heat in the heat transfer layer 40. Subsequently, the heat transfer layer 40 passes through the outlet passages 54a and 54b. To be discharged from the mattress assembly 10.

  In addition, various layers of the mattress assembly 10 move relative to each other during use to facilitate the flow of air through the inlet passages 52a, 52b, 52c into the heat transfer layer 40 and subsequently into the outlet passages 54a, 54b. In order to prevent this, the base layer 50, the heat transfer layer 40, the body support layer 20 and the comfort layer 72 are generally secured together. In this regard, various means (eg, tape, hook and loop fasteners, conventional fasteners, sewing, etc.) for fixing one material layer to another material layer can be used. In one particular embodiment, the base layer 50, the heat transfer layer 40, the body support layer 20 and the comfort layer 72 are bonded together with an adhesive or adhesive material to produce a substantially continuous assembly. In the assembly, the comfort layer 72 and the body support layer 20 are sufficiently adhered to each other, the body support layer 20 and the heat transfer layer 40 are sufficiently adhered to each other, and the heat transfer layer 40 and the base layer 50 are sufficiently adhered to each other. The Examples of adhesive materials are environmentally friendly water-based adhesives such as SABA AQUABOND RSD, a water-based two-component adhesive from SABA DINXPERLO BV (B-7090 AA, Dinxperlo, Belgium) It is an agent.

  Regardless of the specific means for bonding the various layers together, referring to FIGS. 1-5 and the schematic diagram of the circuit of the mattress assembly 10 shown in FIG. A power supply 90 for supplying current, fans 60a and 60b, and a controller 92 for controlling current supplied to the plurality of Peltier elements 30 and fans 60a and 60b are provided. Since the mattress assembly 10 includes the controller 92, not only can the amount of air supplied to the mattress assembly 10 be controlled by controlling the amount of current supplied to each of the fans 60a and 60b, but also the Peltier element. The amount of current supplied to 30 can also be controlled to heat or cool the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20 of the mattress assembly 10 to a desired degree. For example, the controller 92 can be configured to automatically control the current supplied to the Peltier element 30. As a result, when the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20 reaches a specific temperature (for example, after the user lies on the body support layer 20 for a long time), current is supplied to the Peltier element 30. Thus, the first surface of the body support layer 20 can be heated or cooled. As another example, the controller 92 may be configured to supply a current to the Peltier element 30 for a predetermined time (for example, 8 hours).

  As yet another example, the controller 92 may be configured to supply current to the Peltier element 30 to correspond to the user's sleep rhythm. For example, during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, users typically lose at least some of their ability to control body temperature. Thus, in some embodiments, the controller 92 is configured to initiate cooling of the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20 when the user is generally in REM sleep during the nighttime sleep process. May be. Alternatively, the controller 92 may be operatively connected to a device that monitors the sleep rhythm, such as the ZEO SLEEP MANAGER ™ manufactured by ZEO (Newton, Mass.). As a result, when the controller 92 receives input indicating that a user lying on the mattress assembly 10 has entered a particular stage of the sleep cycle (eg, REM sleep), the controller 92 supplies current to the Peltier element 30. It may be configured to supply.

  The controller 92 of the mattress assembly 10 controls the direction of the current supplied to the Peltier element 30 in addition to the control of the amount of current supplied to the Peltier element 30. In this regard, the controller 92 can be used to selectively heat or cool the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20 of the mattress assembly 10 by changing the direction of the current supplied to the Peltier element 30, as well as the body support layer. The first surface of the 20 may be configured to dissipate heat from the heat transfer layer 40 of the mattress assembly 10 after cooling for a long time. For example, after cooling the first surface of the body support layer 20 overnight, a large amount of heat is transferred to the heat transfer layer 40 of the mattress assembly 10. In this way, in addition to or in place of driving the fans 60a and 60b to dissipate their heat and release it from the heat transfer layer 40, the direction of the current supplied to the Peltier element 30 is reversed, In addition, the heat of the heat transfer layer 40 may be transferred to the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20 and released to the surrounding atmosphere.

  In order to increase the degree of control over the Peltier elements included in the mattress assembly of the present invention, the exemplary mattress assembly is operatively connected to the body support layer, the heat transfer layer, or both to provide input to the controller. One or more features may further be provided. For example, referring to FIGS. 4 and 23, the mattress assembly 10 includes pressure sensors 94a and 94b. The pressure sensors 94 a and 94 b send pressure feedback to the controller 92 in response to a user on the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20. This allows the controller 92 to automatically supply current, and as soon as the user lies on the mattress assembly 10 (whether or not some pressure is applied to the mattress assembly 10). 10 heating or cooling can be started. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 23, the mattress assembly 10 further includes temperature sensors 96a and 96b. The temperature sensors 96 a and 96 b transmit temperature feedback to the controller 92. Thereby, the controller 92 can selectively heat or cool the first surface of the mattress assembly 10 according to the transmitted temperature feedback, and can maintain the first surface 22 of the body support layer 20 at a desired temperature. In some embodiments, these desired temperature or pressure feedback settings are entered or adjusted directly by the controller 92, and in other embodiments are transmitted from the remote controller 97 to the controller 92. The remote controller 97 includes a temperature control button 98 and a fan control button 99 as shown in FIG. 24. Is also operatively connected.

  Further, with respect to fans 60a, 60b of mattress assembly 10, with reference to FIGS. 1-5, first fan 60a is generally secured to a first outlet 55a located at foot end 58 of the base layer. The second fan 60b is generally fixed to the second outlet 55b located at the foot end 58 of the base layer. However, the fans 60a and 60b are respectively accommodated in the outlet passages 54a and 54b or in a special assembly, and the fans 60a and 60b are hidden in the mattress assembly 10 and / or the magnitude of noise from the fans is reduced. May be. Furthermore, in the mattress assembly 10, the present invention provides any type of fan and (any number) of other means (such as an air pump) for drawing a volume of air through the exemplary mattress assembly of the present invention. Can be used according to. An example of such a fan is the Delta Electronics Fan Model No. P / N VFB070B3A1-DC54 manufactured and sold by Delta Electronics (Taipei City, Taiwan).

  When the first fan 60a and the second fan 60b are driven by the mattress assembly 10 shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the three inlet passages 52a, 52b, 52c and the two outlet passages 54a, 54b are configured in the mattress assembly 10. It can be seen that a sufficient amount of air travels through the heat transfer layer 40, thereby dissipating heat from the Peltier element 30 included in the exemplary “king” size mattress assembly. However, in the exemplary mattress assembly of the present invention, a number of different configurations can be used for the inlet and outlet paths, and can be selected based at least in part on the size of the mattress assembly. For example, referring to FIG. 6, a “twin” size mattress assembly 110 is provided in another embodiment of the present invention that utilizes separate and recessed inlet and outlet passages. The mattress assembly 110 includes a comfort layer 172, a body support layer 120 (having a first surface 122 and a second surface 124 opposite the first surface 122), a heat transfer layer 140, and (of the heat transfer layer 140). A base layer 150 made of a material having a porosity larger than the porosity, and a foundation 170. The mattress assembly 110 includes a plurality of Peltier elements 130 arranged as a first array 135 a provided in the first detachable insertion portion 112 and a second array 135 b provided in the second detachable insertion portion 116. Prepare. The first removable insert 112 is disposed in the central region 114 of the mattress assembly 110, and the second removable insert 116 is disposed in the lower region 118 of the mattress assembly 110. Unlike the “king” size mattress assembly 10 shown in FIGS. 1-5, the base layer 150 of the “twin” size mattress assembly 110 does not have a set of three inlet paths and two outlet paths. In the “twin” size mattress assembly 110, the base layer 150 has one inlet passage 152 extending longitudinally through the base layer 150 from the inlet 153 located at the head end 156 and the outlet located at the foot end 158. There is only one inlet channel 154 extending longitudinally from 155 through the base layer 150. Furthermore, since the base layer 150 includes only one outlet passage 154, the mattress assembly 110 only has one fan 160 operatively connected to the outlet passage 154. In this regard, when the fan 160 is driven by the power source 190 and the controller 192 connected to the fan 160 and the Peltier element 130, the fan 160 sucks air and sends it to one inlet passage 152, and further heats the upper side. It is sent to one outlet channel 154 through the transmission layer 140 and then discharged from the outlet 155.

  As a further improvement, in the mattress assembly 110, the base layer 150 has a filter 195 that covers the inlet 153 to ensure that fresh air enters the base layer 150 (specifically, the inlet channel 153). As a result, only the air that has passed through the filter passes through the inlet 153 through the inlet 153, and the inlet tract 152 is maintained free of smoke, dust, dirt, pollen, mold, bacteria, hair, insects, and the like. . These are collected inside the mattress assembly 10 if the filter 195 is not provided and airflow is restricted. Of course, various filters for removing chemicals and / or unpleasant odors (eg, but not limited to activated carbon filters (charcoal filters)) depart from the spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. As long as not, it can be easily incorporated into the exemplary mattress of the present invention.

  See FIG. 7 for another improvement to the mattress assembly of the present invention that utilizes the inlet and outlet passages provided in the base layer to allow a sufficient amount of air to flow through the exemplary mattress assembly. Thus, in other embodiments, the body support layer 220 having the comfort layer 272, the first surface 222, and the second surface 224 opposite the first surface 222, the heat transfer layer 240, and the heat transfer layer 240. A mattress assembly 210 is provided that includes a base layer 250 made of a material having a porosity less than that of the foundation 270 and a foundation 270. The mattress assembly 210 further includes a plurality of Peltier elements 230 provided in the detachable portions 212a, 212b, 212c, and 212d. The plurality of Peltier elements 230 are arranged as separated arrays 235a, 235b, 235c, 235d. Further, the base layer 250 of the mattress assembly 210 is provided with three separate inlet passages 253a, 253b, which are provided separately from each other and extend longitudinally from the inlets 253a, 253b, 253c located at the head end 256 of the base layer 250. 253c is defined. Base layer 250 further defines two separate outlet passages 254a, 254b extending longitudinally from specific outlets 255a, 255b located at foot end 258. The first outlet passage 254a is operatively connected to the first fan 260a and is disposed between the first inlet passage 252a and the second inlet passage 252b. The second outlet passage 254b is operatively connected to the second fan 260b and is disposed between the second inlet passage 252b and the third inlet passage 252c.

  As a variation on providing the recessed inlet and outlet passages provided in mattress assembly 210, mattress assembly 210 includes porous foam inserts 280a, 280b disposed in inlet passages 252a, 252b, 252c, respectively. , 280c and porous foam inserts 282a, 282b disposed in the outlet channels 254a, 254b, respectively. Holes in each of the porous foam inserts 280a, 280b, 280c disposed in the inlet passages 252a, 252b, 252c and in each of the porous foam inserts 282a, 282b disposed in the outlet passages 254a, 254b The rate is larger than the porosity of the flexible foam constituting the base layer 250. In this regard, porous foam inserts 280a, 280b, 280c are disposed in the inlet passages 252a, 252b, 252c, and porous foam inserts 282a, 282b are disposed in the outlet passages 254a, 254b, thereby providing a porous foam. The inserts 280a, 280b, 280c, 282a, 282b increase the degree of support for the heat transfer layer 240 while allowing a sufficient amount of air to enter the inlet passages 252a, 252b, 252c, the heat transfer layer 240, and the outlet passage. Suction into 254a, 254b can dissipate heat from the Peltier element 230 and the mattress assembly 210 in the heat transfer layer 240. In particular, when the fans 260a and 260b are driven by the power supply 290 and the controller 292 connected to the fans 260a and 260b and the Peltier element 230, the fans 260a and 260 suck air and enter the inlet passages 252a, 252b, and 252c. The porous foam inserts 280a, 280b, 280c and the heat transfer layer 240 are passed through. Air enters the porous foam inserts 282a, 282b in the outlet channels 254a, 254b and is released from the mattress assembly 210 through outlets 255a, 255b located at the foot end 258 of the base layer 250.

  As a further improvement to using the inlet and outlet passages according to the present invention, more specifically, as a further improvement to using a porous foam insert disposed in the inlet and outlet passages, several In embodiments, rather than placing longitudinally extending inlet and outlet passages through a substantial portion of the base layer, the inlet and outlet passages may be located in separate regions of the base layer of the exemplary mattress assembly. With reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, in another exemplary embodiment, a body support layer 320 having a comfort layer 372, a first surface 322, and a second surface 324 opposite the first surface 322; A mattress assembly 310 is provided that includes a plurality of Peltier elements 330, a heat transfer layer 340, a base layer 350 made of a material having a porosity smaller than that of the heat transfer layer 340, and a foundation 370. The mattress assembly 310 is operatively coupled to the first inlet passage 352a and the second inlet passage 352b, the first outlet passage 354a operatively connected to the first fan 360a, and the second fan 360b. And a second outlet channel 354b connected thereto. The first inlet passage 352 a and the first outlet passage 354 a are disposed on the first side 362 of the base layer 350, and the second inlet passage 352 b and the second outlet passage 354 b are opposite to the first side 362 of the base layer 350. On the second side 364 of the side. However, it should be noted that each of the inlet passages 352a and 352b and each of the outlet passages 354a and 354b do not extend in the longitudinal direction through a substantial portion of the base layer 350. Each of the inlet passages 352a and 352b and each of the outlet passages 354a and 354b are substantially rectangular regions arranged at the head side end portion 356 and the foot side end portion 358 of the mattress assembly 310, respectively. Each of the generally rectangular regions includes porous foam inserts 380a, 380b, 382a, 382b each having a porosity greater than the porosity of base layer 350. Thus, driving the fans 360a, 360b operatively connected to the outlet passages 354a, 354b by the controller 392 and the power source 390 causes air to enter the porous foam inserts 380a, 380b in the inlet passages 352a, 352b. And move upward to enter the heat transfer layer 340 and touch the entire Peltier element 330, and move downward to enter the porous foam inserts 382a and 382b in the outlet passages 354a and 354b. Released from the side end 358. Thereby, the heat generated by the Peltier element 330 is dissipated from the mattress assembly 310. This is best illustrated by the arrows in FIG.

  As a further improvement over the use of inlet and outlet paths in accordance with the present invention, in some embodiments, the base layer of the mattress assembly does not extend from the head end or foot end of the base layer and only from the bottom surface of the base layer. You may have the entrance path and exit path which extend. In other exemplary embodiments, with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, the comfort layer 472, the first surface 422, and the first surface 422 are similar to the other embodiments described herein. A body support layer 420 having a second surface 424 facing the substrate, a plurality of Peltier elements 430, a heat transfer layer 440, and a base layer made of a flexible foam having a porosity smaller than that of the heat transfer layer 440 A mattress assembly 410 is provided. The mattress assembly 410 includes a first inlet passage 452a that extends longitudinally through the first side 462 of the base layer 450, a second inlet passage 452b that extends longitudinally through the central portion 466 of the base layer 450, and a central portion 466 of the base layer. A fourth inlet passage extending longitudinally through a third inlet passage 452c extending longitudinally and spaced from the second inlet passage 45ba, and a second side 464 opposite the first side 462 of the base layer 450. 466. The mattress assembly 410 extends longitudinally through the base layer 450 and extends longitudinally through the base layer 450 and has a first outlet channel 454a disposed between the first inlet channel 452a and the second inlet channel 452b. And a second outlet channel 454b disposed between the third inlet channel 452c and the fourth inlet channel 452d. Porous foam inserts 480a, 480b, 480c, 480d are disposed in each of the inlet passages 452a, 452b, 452c, 452d, and porous foam inserts 482a, 482b are disposed in the respective outlet passages 454a, 454b. Yes. However, the mattress assembly 410 is not provided with the inlet passages 452a, 452b, 452c, 452d and the outlet passages 454a, 454b that extend from the head side end portion 456 or the foot side end portion 458 of the base layer 450 and come into contact therewith. . Instead, in the mattress assembly 410, each of the inlet passages 452a, 452b, 452c, 452d and each of the outlet passages 454a, 454b extends longitudinally through the base layer, over the thickness of the base layer 450. The bottom surface 459 extends to the heat transfer layer 440.

  In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the mattress assembly 410 further includes a foundation 470 adjacent to the bottom surface 459 of the base layer 450 to facilitate air movement from the bottom surface 459 of the base layer 450 of the heat transfer layer 440. Prepare. The foundation 470 has a plurality of lattices 471 disposed below. The lattice 471 has a shape corresponding to the inlet passages 452a, 452b, 452c, 452d and the outlet passages 454a, 454b of the base layer 450. The foundation 470 is disposed below the first outlet passage 454a and operatively connected to the first outlet passage 454a, and is disposed below the second outlet passage 454b and second. And a second fan 460b operatively connected to the outlet passage 454b. By disposing the first fan 460a and the second fan 460b below the first outlet passage 454a and the second outlet passage 454b, air is sucked from below the base layer 450 when the fans 460a and 460b are driven. Then, it passes through the lattice 471 and is sent into the inlet passages 452a, 452b, 452c, 452d, and then enters the upper heat transfer layer 440, into the first outlet passage 454a and the second outlet passage 454b. Sucked back and released from the mattress assembly 410. This is indicated by the arrows in FIG.

  With reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, in another embodiment of the present invention, a mattress assembly 510 having other exemplary configurations of inlet passages 552a, 552b, 552c, 552d and outlet passages 554a, 554b is provided. . Similar to the exemplary mattress assembly 410 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the mattress assembly 510 includes a comfort layer 572 and a body (having a first surface 522 and a second surface 524 opposite the first surface 522). A support layer 520, a plurality of Peltier elements 530, a heat transfer layer 540, a base layer 550, and a first fan 560a and a second fan 560b respectively disposed below one of the outlet paths 554a and 554b. A foundation 570). Similarly, the foundation 570 includes a plurality of lattices 571 corresponding to the positions and shapes of the inlet passages 552a, 552b, 552c, and 552d and the outlet passages 554a and 554b. However, in the mattress assembly 510, the inlet passages 552a, 552b, 552c, 552d do not extend in the longitudinal direction through the substantial length of the base layer 550. The inlet passages 552a, 552b, 552c, 552d defined by the base layer 550 of the mattress assembly 510 have the form of cylindrical gaps (spaces, voids) extending from the bottom surface 559 of the base layer 550 to the heat transfer layer 540.

  In particular, the base layer 550 includes a first row of three inlet passages 552a in the form of cylindrical gaps that are spaced apart from each other on the first side 562 of the base layer 550 and a central portion 566 of the base layer 550. From the second row of three inlet passages 552b in the form of cylindrical gaps spaced apart from each other and spaced from each other at the central portion 566 of the base layer 550 and from the second row of inlet passages 552b Formed in the form of columnar gaps spaced apart from each other on the third row of three inlet passages 552c and the second side 564 of the base layer 550 having the form of columnar gaps spaced apart And a fourth row of three inlet passages 552d. In the mattress assembly 510, a first outlet passage 554a extends longitudinally through the base layer 550 between the first row of inlet passages 552a and the second row of inlet passages 552b, and the second outlet passage 554b is a third outlet passage 554b. Extending longitudinally through the base layer 550 between the row of inlet passages 552c and the fourth row of inlet passages 552d. Porous foam inserts 580a, 580b, 580c, 580d are disposed in the inlet passages 552a, 552b, 552c, 552d, respectively. In addition, a porous foam insert 582a is disposed in the first outlet passage 554a and a porous foam insert 582b is disposed in the second outlet passage 554b. Accordingly, when the first fan 560a and the second fan 560b are driven by the controller 592 and the power source 590 connected to the mattress assembly 510, the air is transferred to the base layer as indicated by arrows in FIG. 550 is sucked from below and enters the porous foam inserts 580a, 580b, 580c, 580d in the inlet passages 552a, 552b, 552c, 552d, and then enters the upper heat transfer layer 540 and enters the heat transfer layer 540. And is sucked back into the porous foam insert 582a in the first outlet passage 554a and into the porous foam insert in the second outlet passage 554b and discharged from the mattress assembly 510.

  As an improvement to the base layer 550 of the mattress assembly 510, the base layer 550 of the mattress 510 is adapted to draw a certain amount of air into the heat transfer layer 540 through the row of inlet passages 452a, 452b, 452c, 452d. It is not made of a flexible foam having a porosity greater than the porosity of. In mattress assembly 510, base layer 550 comprises a porous foam. In this regard, the mattress assembly 510 includes the exposed outer surface of the base layer 550 and the heat transfer layer 540 (ie, the continuous sidewalls of the base layer 550 and the heat transfer layer 540 and the bottom surface 559 of the base layer 550) and the base layer 550. And a barrier layer 584 disposed between the heat transfer layer 540 and the heat transfer layer 540. The barrier layer 584 may be made of a plurality of different materials such as plastic or cloth, but in all examples, air is sucked by the fans 560a and 560b and through the rows of the inlet passages 552a, 552b, 552c, and 552d. It moves into the heat transfer layer 540 and into the first outlet channel 554a and the second outlet channel 554b, and functions as a substantially hermetic layer through which the base layer 550 and the heat transfer layer 540 pass.

  Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a mattress assembly 610 having yet another configuration of inlet passage 652 and outlet passages 654a, 654b is provided. The mattress assembly 610 includes a comfort layer 672, a body support layer 620 (having a first surface 622 and a second surface 624 opposite the first surface 622), a plurality of Peltier elements 630, and a heat transfer layer 640. A base layer 650 (consisting of a flexible foam having a porosity smaller than the porosity of the heat transfer layer 640) and a plurality of grids 671 corresponding to the position and shape of the inlet passage 652 and outlet passages 654a, 654b. ) Foundation 670. The foundation 670 further accommodates four separated fans (of which the first fan 660a and the second fan 660b are shown in FIG. 15). The four fans are tilted (directed) to release air from the mattress assembly 610 and are connected to the controller 692 and the power source 690.

  Each of the inlet passages 652 of the mattress assembly 610 is provided with a porous foam insert 680 and each of the outlet passages 654a, 654b is provided with a porous foam insert 682a, 682b. However, in the mattress assembly 610, the inlet passage 652 is provided in the central portion 66 of the base layer 650, the first side 662 of the base layer 650 is provided with a first row of outlet passages 654a, and the second side 664 of the base layer 650 is provided. A second row of outlet passages 654b is provided. In this regard, as best shown in FIG. 15, when air is drawn into the mattress assembly 610, the air first begins with the porous foam of the inlet passage 652 disposed within the central portion 666 of the mattress assembly 610. Enter insert 680 and subsequently enter both first side 662 and second side 664 of base layer 650 through heat transfer layer 640 and release through porous foam inserts 682a, 682b disposed in outlet passages 682a, 682b. Is done.

  As yet another example of a mattress assembly manufactured in accordance with the present invention, in another embodiment, with reference to FIGS. A mattress assembly 710 comprising a body support layer 720 (having a second surface 724), a plurality of Peltier elements 730, a heat transfer layer 740, a base layer 750, and a foundation 770 (having a plurality of shaped grids 771). Provided. The foundation 770 contains four separated fans (only the first fan 760a and the second fan 760b are shown in FIG. 17). The mattress assembly 710 is disposed on the first side 762 of the base layer 750 and has a first row of outlet passages 754a having a porous foam insert 782a, and is disposed on the second side 764 of the base layer 750 and the porous foam insert 782b. And a second row of outlet passages 754b. However, unlike the mattress assembly 610 shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, in the mattress assembly 710, the inlet passage 752 is disposed at the central portion 766 of the base layer 750 and the foot side end portion 758 from the head side end portion 756 of the base layer 750. It has the form of a porous foam region 780 extending longitudinally to the surface. Further, in the mattress assembly 710, the base layer 750 is made of a porous foam, and a barrier layer 784 is disposed on the outer surface of the base layer 750 and the heat transfer layer 740 and between the base layer 750 and the heat transfer layer 740. Yes. Thus, when air is drawn into the mattress assembly 710, the air is directed to the base layer 750 along the length of the porous foam region 780 of the inlet channel 752, as best shown in FIG. Enters and flows up from the porous foam region 780, flows through the entire heat transfer layer 740, and moves downward to enter the porous foam inserts 782a, 782b in the outlet channels 782a, 782b.

  18 and 19, another exemplary mattress assembly 810 is provided as a variation of the mattress assembly 710 shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. The mattress assembly 810 similarly includes a comfort layer 872, a body support layer 820, a plurality of Peltier elements 830, a base layer 859, and a foundation 870. The foundation 870 has a plurality of lattices 871 and accommodates four separated fans (of which the first fan 860a and the second fan 860b are shown in FIG. 19). The mattress assembly 810 is also disposed on the first side 862 of the base layer 850 and includes a first row of outlet passages 854a that includes the porous foam insert 882a, and the second side 864 of the base layer 850 and the porous foam insert. And a second row of outlet passages 852b including the object 882b. In addition, mattress assembly 810 includes an inlet channel 852 in the form of a porous foam region 880 extending longitudinally at a central portion 866 of base layer 850. However, in the mattress assembly 810, the base layer 850 is not composed of a porous foam, but is composed of a standard flexible foam (eg, polyurethane foam) having a porosity that is less than the porosity of the heat transfer layer 840. Further, in the mattress assembly 810, the barrier layer 884 is used only to surround the outer surfaces of the base layer 850 and the heat transfer layer 840 and is not disposed between the base layer 850 and the heat transfer layer 840.

  As a further improvement of the present invention, each of the mattress assemblies 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 shown in FIGS. 1 to 19 includes Peltier elements 30, 130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630, 730, 830, but the present invention further includes a mattress assembly that does not utilize a plurality of Peltier elements to selectively cool the body support layer of the mattress assembly. For example, as shown in FIG. 20, in a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a body support layer 920, a heat transfer layer 940 comprised of a porous flexible foam, and an empty porous flexible foam in the heat transfer layer 940 are provided. A mattress assembly 910 is provided that includes a base layer 950 made of a flexible foam having a porosity that is less than the porosity. The mattress assembly 910 further includes three inlet passages 952a, 952b, 952c and two outlet passages 954a, 954b defined by the base layer 950. The mattress assembly further includes a pair of fans 960a, 960b operatively connected to a power source 990 and a controller 992. One of the fans 960a and 960b is operatively connected to each of the two outlet passages 954a and 954b. However, no Peltier element is used to selectively cool the body support layer 920 of the mattress assembly. In the mattress assembly 910, the body support layer 920 is cooled by driving each of the fans 960a, 960b and sucks a certain amount of air into the inlet passages s952a, 952b, 952c. Air is absorbed by the adjacent body support layer 920 through the heat transfer layer 940, enters the outlet passages 954 a, 954 b, and is released from the mattress assembly 910.

  As a further improvement of the mattress assembly of the present invention, one or more covers may be provided to cover the mattress assembly described herein. For example, in one embodiment, a cover having the form of a fire sock may be used to initially surround the exemplary mattress assembly. The fire socks may then be covered using an outer fabric cover (eg, a cover made of 100% cotton or other soft and breathable fabric). As another example, referring to FIG. 21, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a first cover 2020 having a top panel 2022, a bottom panel 2024, and a continuous side panel 2030. A mattress assembly cover assembly 2010 may be utilized. The continuous side panel 2030 of the first cover 2020 is characterized as including a head panel (head side panel) 2032, a foot panel (foot side panel) 2034, and two opposing side panels 2036, 2038. be able to. Together with the top panel 2022 and the bottom panel 2024, they collectively define a cavity that surrounds the mattress assembly of the present invention. The first cover 2020 further includes a brand tag 2062 that extends vertically along a portion of the foot panel 2034.

  The cover assembly 2010 further includes a second cover 2040 having a top surface 2042 and a bottom surface 2044, and the second cover 2040 defines an edge 2046. The second cover 2040 of the cover assembly 2010 is generally positioned above the top panel 2022 of the first cover 2020 and has a dimension that covers at least the top panel 2022 of the first cover 2020 (the region is FIG. 21 shows hatching, and blue is designated for the top panel 2022 of the first cover 2020. In particular, in the cover assembly 2010, the second cover 2040 includes the top panel 2022, the upper halves 2037 and 2039 of the opposing side panels 2036 and 2038, the upper end 2035 of the foot panel 2034, and the upper end of the head panel 2032. It has a dimension that covers the portion 2033. By providing such a second cover 2040 on the cover assembly 2010, the second cover 2040 covers and protects a portion of the lower first cover 2020, and thus the first cover 2020. It is configured to cover and protect the lower mattress part. This portion is exposed to excessive friction and is likely to be highly stained or damaged, ie, the top panel 2022, the upper halves 2037 and 2039 of the opposing side panels 2036 and 2038, the upper end of the foot panel 2034 2035 and the upper end 2033 of the head panel 2032. Further, by providing the second cover 2040 on the cover assembly 2010, the upper halves 2037 and 2039 of the opposing side panels 2036 and 2038 are attached to the first cover 2020 with the zipper 2050. In particular, it has a more rounded shape. Of course, other sizes and configurations for the second cover 2040 can be readily selected as needed without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein, and can be tailored to a particular cover assembly. It can be incorporated to prevent the mattress from being damaged or dirty, or to change the appearance of the mattress.

  As a further improvement to the present invention, the support cushion shown in FIGS. 1 to 21 has the form of a mattress assembly 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 910, Although dimensioned to support a user lying in a prone position, the features described herein include head pillows, seat cushions, seat backs, neck pillows, leg spacer pillows, mattress stoppers. The same applies to overlays, etc. Thus, when a “support cushion” is used herein, it can have any size or shape and can be used (or commonly used) to support a user's body or part thereof. ) Refers to any or all objects. For example, as shown in FIG. 22, in a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a support cushion manufactured in accordance with the present invention is incorporated into a seat 1011 of a desk chair 1010. Each support cushion of the desk chair 1010 includes a comfort layer 1072, a body support layer 1020, a plurality of Peltier elements 1030, a heat transfer layer 1040 made of a porous viscoelastic foam, and a viscosity layer included in the heat transfer layer 1040. A base layer 1050 made of a flexible foam (having a porosity less than that of the elastic foam) and a fan 1060 (operably connected to a power source 990 and a controller 992). The base layer 1050 of the sheet 1011 has a first inlet channel 1052a having a porous foam insert 1080a, 1080b, respectively, in addition to an outlet channel 1054 having a porous foam insert 1082 and operatively connected to a fan 1060. A second inlet channel 1052b is defined. The fan 1060 draws a certain amount of air through the porous foam inserts 1080a, 1080b provided in the inlet passages 1052a, 1052b, and inserts the porous foam inserted in the outlet passage 1054 through the heat transfer layer 1040. Air can be sent into the object 1082 to assist in selective heating and cooling of the seat 1011 of the desk chair 1010.

  Each of the exemplary support cushions described herein can also be used as part of a method for controlling the surface temperature of the support cushion. In some embodiments, a method for controlling the surface temperature of a support cushion provides the support cushion of the present invention. Next, electric current is supplied to each fan, and each fan sucks a certain amount of air and sends it to each inlet passage, and further sends it to each outlet passage through the heat transfer layer. In an example in which the support cushion includes a plurality of Peltier elements, a current may be supplied to the plurality of Peltier elements. As a result, when current is supplied in the first direction, the surface temperature of the body support portion decreases, while when current is supplied in the second direction, the surface temperature of the body support portion increases. In some embodiments, the amount of current supplied to the Peltier element may be controlled to control the degree of heating or cooling of the support cushion. In some embodiments, receiving feedback from a temperature sensor or pressure sensor disposed within the body support of the support cushion, and subsequently, based on feedback received from the temperature sensor, pressure sensor, or both, the fan, By supplying current to multiple Peltier elements, or both, the surface temperature of the support cushion is controlled.

  Throughout the description, various references are made. All these documents are hereby incorporated by reference, including those listed in the list below.

(Reference)
1. US Pat. No. 8,034,445 (inventor: Landvik et al., Issue date: October 11, 2011, title of invention: “Laminated Visco-Elastic Support”)
2. US Pat. No. 8,025,964 (inventor: Landvik et al., Issue date: September 27, 2011, title of invention: “Laminated Visco-Elastic Support”)
3. US Pat. No. 7,979,374 (inventor: Landvik, issue date: July 12, 2011, title of invention: “Product Demonstration System and Method for Using the Same”)
4). US Pat. No. 7,735,169 (inventor: Wasefelfsky, date of issue: June 15, 2010, title of invention: “Comfort Pillow”)
5. US Pat. No. 7,707,670 (inventor: Fogg, date of issue: May 4, 2010, title of invention: “Pillow top for a Cushion”)
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9. US Pat. No. 7,444,702 (inventor: Fogg, date of issue: November 4, 2008, title of invention: “Pillow top for a Cushion”)
10. US Pat. No. 7,415,742 (inventor: Wasilefsky, issue date: August 26, 2008, title of invention: “Comfort Pillow”)
11. US Design Registration No. D558,499 (Creator: Maarbjerg, Issue Date: January 1, 2008, Name: “Pillow”)
12 US Pat. No. 7,155,765 (inventor: Fogg, date of issue: January 2, 2007, title of invention: “Pillow top for a Cushion”)
13. US Design Registration No. D529,325 (creator: Maarbjerg, issue date: October 3, 2006, name: “Pillow”)
14 US Pat. No. 7,082,633 (inventor: Maarbjerg, date of issue: August 1, 2006, title of invention: “Pillow”)
15. US Pat. No. 7,051,389 (inventor: Wasilefsky, issue date: May 30, 2006, title of invention: “Comfort Pillow”)
16. US Pat. No. 6,866,915 (inventor: Landvik, issue date: March 15, 2005, title of invention: “Cushion”)
17. US Pat. No. 6,602,579 (inventor: Landvik, issue date: August 5, 2003, title of invention: “Cushion”)
18. US Pat. No. 6,578,218 (inventor: Wasilefsky, date of issue: January 17, 2003, title of invention: “Leg Spacer Pillow”)
19. US Pat. No. 6,541,094 (inventor: Landvik, et al., Issue date: April 1, 2003, title of invention: “Laminated Visco-Elastic Support”)
20. US Design Registration No. D456,660 (Creator: Landvik, Issue Date: May 7, 2002, Name: “Convented Head Pillow”)
21. US Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0198616 (inventor: Makani, publication date: August 9, 2012, title of invention: “Distributed Thermoelectric Stringing and Insulating Panel and Applications for Local Healing” from Heat ")
22. US Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0060885 (inventor: Makani, publication date: March 15, 2012, title of invention: “Distributed Thermoelectric Stringing and Insulating Panel”)
23. US Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0252562 (inventor: Mikkelsen, et al., Publication date: October 20, 2011, title of invention: “Adjustable-Farmness Body Support and Method”)
24. US Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0094803 (inventor: Fogg, publication date: May 3, 2007, title of invention: “Pillow top for a Cushion”)
25. US Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0288490 (Inventor: Mikkelsen, et al., Publication Date: December 28, 2006, Title of Invention: “Reticulated Material Body Support and Method”)
26. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0277684 (inventor: Wasilefsky, publication date: December 14, 2006, title of invention: "Comfort Pillow")
27. US Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0174414 (Inventor: Maarbjerg, Publication Date: August 10, 2006, Title of Invention: “Pillow”)
28. US Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0202214 (inventor: Landvik, publication date: September 15, 2005, title of invention: “Cushion”)
29. US Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0084667 (inventor: Landvik, publication date: April 21, 2005, title of invention: “Laminated Visco-Elastic Support”)
30. US Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0076446 (inventor: Fogg, publication date: April 14, 2005, title of invention: “Pillow top for a Cushion”)
31. US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0073931 (inventor: Trussel Jr., et al., Publication date: April 15, 2004, title of invention: “Interactive Bed Display”)
32. US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0033351 (inventor: Landvik, et al., Publication date: February 19, 2004, title of invention: “Laminated Visco-Elastic Support”)
33. US Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0171954 (inventor: Guerin, et al., Publication date: September 11, 2003, title of invention: “Method of Managing of Healthcare and System for Effecting”).
34. US Patent Application Publication No. 2001/0021438 (inventor: Landvik, publication date: September 13, 2001, title of invention: “Cushion”)

  Those skilled in the art will recognize that additional embodiments are possible without departing from the teachings of the present invention or the following claims. This detailed description, and in particular the specific details of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, has been made primarily for the sake of clarity. Necessary limitations on modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art who have seen this disclosure, and such necessary limitations may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (61)

A body support layer having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface;
A plurality of thermoelectric elements arranged and configured to selectively heat or cool on the first surface of the body support layer;
A heat transfer layer disposed adjacent to the second surface of the body support layer and operatively connected to the thermoelectric element;
A base layer disposed adjacent to the heat transfer layer and opposite the body support layer, wherein the inlet path is fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer, and is fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer and from the inlet path A base layer defining an exit path disposed at a predetermined distance;
A fan operatively connected to the outlet path,
Support cushion. The base layer further defines an inlet fluidly connected to the inlet passage and an outlet fluidly connected to the outlet passage.
The support cushion according to claim 1. The fan is connected to the outlet;
The support cushion according to claim 2. The inlet is located on a first outer surface of the base layer;
The inlet passage extends longitudinally from the inlet through the base layer;
The outlet is located on a second outer surface of the base layer;
The outlet passage extends longitudinally from the outlet through the base layer;
The support cushion according to claim 2. The first outer surface is a head side end of the base layer;
The second outer surface is a foot side end of the base layer.
The support cushion according to claim 4. Further comprising a foundation disposed below the base layer,
The support cushion according to claim 1. The fan is housed in the foundation;
The support cushion according to claim 6. The body support layer, the heat transfer layer and the base layer are made of flexible foam;
The support cushion according to claim 1. The porosity of the flexible foam constituting the heat transfer layer is larger than the porosity of the flexible foam constituting the base layer,
The support cushion according to claim 8. The body support layer and the heat transfer layer comprise viscoelastic foam;
The support cushion according to claim 8. The heat transfer layer comprises a porous viscoelastic foam;
The support cushion according to claim 10. A first flexible foam insert disposed in the inlet passage; and a second flexible foam insert disposed in the outlet passage;
The porosity of the first flexible foam insert and the second flexible foam insert is respectively greater than the porosity of the base layer;
The support cushion according to claim 8. The thermoelectric element is a discrete Peltier element.
The support cushion according to claim 1. The thermoelectric element is a plurality of Peltier elements connected in series.
The support cushion according to claim 1. The thermoelectric elements are provided in an array,
The support cushion according to claim 1. At least a part of the array-like thermoelectric element is:
Individually addressable,
The support cushion according to claim 15. The support cushion has one or more removable parts;
Each detachable part is composed of one region of the body support layer and a corresponding region of the heat transfer layer,
Each removable part contains an array of thermoelectric elements,
The support cushion according to claim 15. The one or more detachable portions include a first detachable portion disposed in a central region of the support cushion and a second detachable portion disposed in a lower region of the support cushion.
The support cushion according to claim 17. The body support layer has dimensions to support a user sleeping in a supine or prone position,
The support cushion according to claim 1. Further comprising a comfort layer disposed on the body support layer and comprising a viscoelastic foam;
The support cushion according to claim 1. The density of the comfort layer is smaller than the density of the body support layer,
The support cushion according to claim 20. A power supply for supplying current to the fan and the plurality of thermoelectric elements;
A controller for controlling current supplied from the power source to the fan and the plurality of thermoelectric elements;
The support cushion according to claim 1. The controller is configured to supply power to the fan, the plurality of thermoelectric elements, or both at a predetermined time.
The support cushion according to claim 22. One or more temperature sensors for sending temperature feedback to the controller;
The one or more temperature sensors are operatively connected to the body support layer;
The support cushion according to claim 22. One or more pressure sensors for transmitting pressure feedback to the controller;
The one or more pressure sensors are operatively connected to the body support layer;
The support cushion according to claim 22. The support cushion according to claim 1, further comprising a filter operatively connected to the inlet passage, the outlet passage, or both the inlet passage and the outlet passage. A body support layer having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface;
A heat transfer layer disposed adjacent to a second surface of the body support layer;
One or more inlet passages fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer and adjacent to the heat transfer layer and opposite the body support layer; and fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer; A base layer defining one or more outlet passages disposed at a predetermined distance from each of the one or more inlet passages;
A fan operatively connected to each of the one or more outlet passages for drawing a volume of air from the one or more inlet passages and passing through the heat transfer layer the one or more outlet passages; And a fan for supplying the air to
The porosity of the base layer is smaller than the porosity of the heat transfer layer,
Support cushion. A porosity of each flexible foam insert further comprising: a flexible foam insert disposed in each of the one or more inlet passages; and a flexible foam insert disposed in each of the one or more outlet passages. Is greater than the porosity of the base layer,
The support cushion according to claim 27. A body support layer having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface;
A plurality of thermoelectric elements arranged and configured to selectively heat or cool on the first surface of the body support layer;
A heat transfer layer disposed adjacent to the second surface of the body support layer and operatively connected to the thermoelectric element;
A base layer disposed adjacent to the heat transfer layer and opposite the body support layer and having a head portion and a foot portion, the base layer being fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer and extending longitudinally from the head portion through the base layer A base layer defining one or more inlet passages extending to the heat transfer layer and defining one or more outlet passages in fluid communication with the heat transfer layer and extending longitudinally from the foot portion through the base layer;
A fan operatively connected to each of the one or more outlet passages,
Mattress assembly. The one or more inlet passages are opposite to the first inlet passage disposed at the first side of the base layer, the second inlet passage disposed at the center of the base layer, and the first side of the base layer. A third inlet channel disposed on the second side of the side,
The one or more outlet passages include a first outlet passage disposed between the first inlet passage and the second inlet passage, the second inlet passage, and the third inlet passage. A second exit path disposed between
30. A mattress assembly according to claim 29. Having one or more removable parts,
Each removable part consists of a region of the body support layer and a corresponding region of the heat transfer layer,
Each removable part contains an array of thermoelectric elements,
30. A mattress assembly according to claim 29. The body support layer, the heat transfer layer and the base layer are each composed of a flexible foam,
The porosity of the flexible foam constituting the heat transfer layer is larger than the porosity of the flexible foam constituting the base layer,
30. A mattress assembly according to claim 29. A body support layer having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface;
A plurality of thermoelectric elements arranged and configured to selectively heat or cool on the first surface of the body support layer;
A heat transfer layer disposed adjacent to the second surface of the body support layer and operatively connected to the thermoelectric element;
One or more inlet passages fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer and adjacent to the heat transfer layer and opposite the body support layer; and fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer; A base layer defining one or more outlet passages disposed at a predetermined distance from the one or more inlet passages;
A flexible foam insert disposed in each of the one or more inlet passages and in each of the one or more outlet passages and having a porosity greater than the porosity of the base layer;
A fan operatively connected to the one or more outlet passages,
Mattress assembly. The one or more inlet passages include a first inlet passage extending longitudinally through a first side of the base layer and a second inlet passage extending longitudinally through a second side of the base layer;
The one or more outlet passages include a central outlet passage disposed between the first inlet passage and the second inlet passage and extending longitudinally through a central portion of the base layer;
34. A mattress assembly according to claim 33. Each of the one or more inlet passages has a substantially rectangular region located at a head end of the base layer;
Each of the one or more exit passages has a substantially rectangular region located at a head end of the base layer.
34. A mattress assembly according to claim 33. The one or more inlet passages include a first inlet passage disposed on a first side of the base layer and a second inlet passage disposed on a second side opposite to the first side of the base layer. Including
The one or more outlet passages include a first outlet passage disposed on a first side of the base layer and a second outlet passage disposed on a second side of the base layer.
36. A mattress assembly according to claim 35. The body support layer, the heat transfer layer and the base layer are made of flexible foam;
The porosity of the flexible foam constituting the heat transfer layer is larger than the porosity of the flexible foam constituting the base layer,
36. A mattress assembly according to claim 35. Including one or more removable parts,
Each removable part consists of a region of the body support layer and a corresponding region of the heat transfer layer,
Each removable part contains an array of thermoelectric elements,
36. A mattress assembly according to claim 35. A body support layer having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface;
A plurality of thermoelectric elements arranged and configured to selectively heat or cool on the first surface of the body support layer;
A heat transfer layer disposed adjacent to the second surface of the body support layer and operatively connected to the thermoelectric element;
One or more inlet channels extending from the bottom surface of the base layer to the heat transfer layer, the base layer having a bottom surface and disposed adjacent to the heat transfer layer and facing the body support layer; A base layer extending from a bottom surface of the substrate to the heat transfer layer and defining one or more outlet channels disposed at a predetermined distance from each of the one or more inlet channels;
A fan operatively connected to the one or more outlet passages,
Mattress assembly. The one or more inlet passages include a first inlet passage extending longitudinally through the first side of the base layer and a second inlet passage extending longitudinally through the second side of the base layer;
The one or more outlet passages have a central outlet passage disposed between the first inlet passage and the second inlet passage;
40. A mattress assembly according to claim 39. The one or more inlet passages include a first inlet passage extending longitudinally through a first side of the base layer, a second inlet passage extending longitudinally through a central portion of the base layer, and the second inlet passage. And a third inlet passage extending longitudinally through a central portion of the base layer and a fourth inlet passage extending longitudinally through a second side opposite to the first side of the base layer. ,
The one or more outlet passages include a first outlet passage disposed between the first inlet passage and the second inlet passage, the third inlet passage, and the fourth inlet passage. A second exit channel disposed between
40. A mattress assembly according to claim 39. Each of the one or more inlet passages has the form of a cylindrical gap,
40. A mattress assembly according to claim 39. The one or more inlet passages include at least two inlet passages extending through the first side of the base layer and at least two inlet passages extending through the second side of the base layer opposite to the first side of the base layer. And
Each of the one or more outlet passages extends longitudinally through the base layer and has at least two inlet passages disposed on the first side of the base layer and at least two disposed on the second side of the base layer. Between the two entrance paths,
43. A mattress assembly according to claim 42. Each of the one or more exit passages and each of the one or more exit passages has a form of a cylindrical gap,
40. A mattress assembly according to claim 39. The one or more outlet passages include at least two outlet passages disposed on a first side of the base layer and at least two outlet passages disposed on a second side opposite to the first side of the base layer. Including
The one or more outlet passages include at least two inlet passages disposed in a central portion of the base layer;
45. A mattress assembly according to claim 44. Further comprising: a flexible foam insert disposed in each of the one or more inlet passages; and a flexible foam insert disposed in each of the one or more outlet passages;
The porosity of each flexible foam insert is greater than the porosity of the base layer,
40. A mattress assembly according to claim 39. Each of the one or more exit passages has a form of a cylindrical gap,
40. A mattress assembly according to claim 39. The one or more outlet passages include at least two outlet passages disposed on a first side of the base layer;
The one or more inlet passages include at least one inlet passage extending longitudinally through the base layer;
48. A mattress assembly according to claim 47. The one or more outlet passages include at least two outlet passages disposed on a first side of the base layer and at least two outlet passages disposed on a second side opposite to the first side of the base layer. Including
The inlet passage extends longitudinally through a central portion of the base layer;
48. A mattress assembly according to claim 47. The base layer and the heat transfer layer each have a continuous side panel;
The mattress assembly further includes a barrier covering the continuous side panel of the base layer, the continuous side panel of the heat transfer layer, or both.
40. A mattress assembly according to claim 39. The barrier further covers a bottom surface of the base layer;
51. A mattress assembly according to claim 50. The base layer comprises a porous flexible foam;
The barrier further covers the top surface of the base layer so as to be disposed between the top surface of the base layer and the heat transfer layer;
52. A mattress assembly according to claim 51. The base layer is characterized as including one or more walls defining the one or more inlet passages and the one or more outlet passages;
51. A mattress assembly according to claim 50. Each fan is inclined to discharge air from the mattress assembly,
40. A mattress assembly according to claim 39. A method for controlling the surface temperature of a support cushion,
A body support layer having a first surface and a second surface;
A heat transfer layer;
A base layer disposed adjacent to the heat transfer layer and facing the body support layer, having a porosity smaller than the porosity of the heat transfer layer, and fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer A base layer defining one or more inlet passages and one or more outlet passages fluidly connected to the heat transfer layer and spaced from each of the one or more inlet passages; ,
Providing a support cushion comprising: a fan operatively connected to each of the one or more outlet passages;
Supplying current to each fan such that each fan draws a quantity of air from a particular inlet path and moves it through the heat transfer layer into a particular outlet path;
Including methods. The support cushion further comprises a plurality of Peltier elements arranged and configured to selectively heat or cool the first surface of the body support layer.
56. The method of claim 55. Further comprising supplying current to the plurality of Peltier elements;
When a current is supplied in the first direction, the surface temperature of the body support layer decreases,
When a current is supplied in the second direction, the surface temperature of the body support layer increases.
57. The method of claim 56. Further comprising controlling the amount of current supplied to the Peltier element and controlling the degree of heating or cooling of the support cushion,
57. The method of claim 56. Supplying a current for a predetermined time in the second direction following the cooling time;
58. The method of claim 57. Receiving feedback from a temperature sensor disposed in the body support layer;
Supplying current to the fan, the plurality of Peltier elements, or both based on feedback transmitted from the temperature sensor;
57. The method of claim 56. The body support layer comprises a viscoelastic foam;
56. The method of claim 55.

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