Patent Grant
10695247
The present invention relates to a device for supporting a patient, such as a mattress. In particular, the present invention relates to patient supports appropriate for use in hospitals, acute care facilities, and other patient care environments. Further, the present invention relates to pressure relief support surfaces and support surfaces that are configured to accommodate and operate with a variety of sizes and styles of beds, bed frames, and patient types.
Known patient supports are disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,630,238 to Weismiller et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,715,548 to Weismiller et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,076,208 to Heimbrock et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,240,584 to Perez et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,320,510 to Menkedick et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,378,152 to Washburn et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 6,499,167 to Ellis et al., all of which are owned by the assignee of the present invention and all of which are incorporated herein by this reference.
According to one embodiment of the present invention, a patient support is provided, including a cover, an air permeable first layer, a second layer including first, second, and third zones, the first and second zones including a plurality of transverse bladders and the third zone including a plurality of upright can-shaped bladders, a first pressure sensing assembly positioned underneath the first zone, a second pressure sensing assembly positioned underneath the second zone, the first and second pressure sensing assemblies being operable to sense force applied to the first and second zones, respectively, and a controller operably coupled to the first and second pressure sensing assemblies to adjust pressure in one or more of the first, second, and third zones based on pressure signals received from the first and second pressure sensing assemblies.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, a patient support is provided, including a cover defining an interior region, an air permeable first layer located in the interior region, a first air supply coupled to the first layer to provide air flow through the first layer, a plurality of air bladders located beneath the air permeable first layer including one or more transverse bladders and one or more upright can-shaped bladders, a second air supply coupled to the air bladders to selectively inflate and deflate the air bladders, a first angle sensor located in the interior region in a first articulatable portion of the patient support, a second angle sensor located in the interior region in a second articulatable portion of the patient support, and a controller coupled to the first and second air supplies and the first and second angle sensors to control inflation and deflation of the air bladders in response to angle signals received from the first and second angle sensors and to control air flow through the air permeable layer.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, a patient support is provided including a cover, an air permeable first support layer located within the cover, an air supply coupled to the first support layer, a second support layer located beneath the first layer, the second layer including a head zone and a seat zone, a first sensing assembly located beneath the head zone, a second sensing assembly located beneath the seat zone, a controller to receive signals from the first and second sensing assemblies to determine whether the patient support is occupied by a patient and adjust the air flow through the air permeable first layer based on the signals from the first and second sensing assemblies.
Additional features and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of illustrated embodiments exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the invention as presently perceived.
Aspects of the present invention are more particularly described below with reference to the following figures, which illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention:
Frame 4 of the exemplary bed 2 generally includes a deck 6 supported by a base 8. Deck 6 includes one or more deck sections (not shown), some or all of which may be articulating sections, i.e., pivotable with respect to base 8. In general, patient support 10 is configured to be supported by deck 6.
Patient support 10 has an associated control unit 42, which controls inflation and deflation of certain internal components of patient support 10, among other things. Control unit 42 includes a user interface 44, which enables caregivers, service technicians, and/or service providers to configure patient support 10 according to the needs of a particular patient. For example, support characteristics of patient support 10 may be adjusted according to the size, weight, position, or activity of the patient. User interface 44 is password-protected or otherwise designed to prevent access by unauthorized persons.
User interface 44 also enables patient support 10 to be adapted to different bed configurations. For example, deck 6 maybe a flat deck or a step or recessed deck. A caregiver may select the appropriate deck configuration via user interface 44. An exemplary control unit 42 and user interface 44 are described in detail in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/697,708, filed Jul. 8, 2005, and corresponding PCT application PCT/US2006/026788 assigned to the assignee of the present invention, and incorporated herein by reference.
Referring now to
In the illustrated embodiment, first layer 20 includes a support material, second layer 50 includes a plurality of inflatable bladders located underneath the first layer 20, and third layer 52 includes a plurality of pressure sensors located underneath one or more of the bladders of second layer 50, as more particularly described below.
Also located within interior region 14 are a plurality of bolsters 54, one or more filler portions 56, and a pneumatic valve control assembly, valve box, control box, or pneumatic box 58. A fire-resistant material may also be included in the interior region 14.
Patient support 10 may be coupled to deck 6 by one or more couplers 46. Illustratively, couplers 46 are conventional woven or knit or fabric straps including a D-ring or hook and loop assembly or Velcro®-brand strip or similar fastener. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that other suitable couplers, such as buttons, snaps, or tethers may also be used equally as well.
Components of one embodiment of a patient support in accordance with the present invention are shown in exploded view in
A first support layer 20 is located below top cover portion 16 in interior region 14. First support layer 20 includes one or more materials, structures, or fabrics suitable for supporting a patient, such as foam, inflatable bladders, or three-dimensional material. Suitable three-dimensional materials include Spacenet, Tytex, and/or similar materials. One embodiment of a suitable three dimensional material for support layer 20 is shown in
Returning to
A pressure-sensing layer 69 illustratively including first and second sensor pads, namely a head sensor pad 68 and a seat sensor pad 70, is positioned underneath bladder assemblies 60, 62, 64. Head sensor pad 68 is generally aligned underneath head section bladder assembly 60, and seat sensor pad 70 is generally aligned underneath seat section bladder assembly 62, as shown. Head filler 66 maybe positioned adjacent head sensor pad 68 near head end 32 so as to properly position head sensor pad 68 underneath the region of patient support 10 most likely to support the head or upper body section of the patient. In other embodiments, a single sensor pad or additional sensor pads, for example, located underneath foot section bladder assembly 64, and/or different alignments of the sensor pads, are provided.
In the illustrated embodiment, a turn-assist cushion or turning bladder or rotational bladder 74 is located below sensor pads 68, 70. The exemplary turn-assist cushion 74 shown in
A plurality of other support components 66, 72, 76, 78, 80, 84, 86, 90 are also provided in the embodiment of
The support components illustrated in
Head bolster assembly 76, seat bolster assembly 78, and foot section bolster assembly 86 each include longitudinally-oriented inflatable bladders laterally spaced apart by coupler plates 144. Bolster assemblies 76, 78, 86 are described below with reference to
As illustrated, first foot filler portion 80 includes a plurality of inflatable bladders extending transversely across patient support 10, and second foot filler portion 84 includes a foam member, illustratively with portions cut out to allow for retractability of the foot section or for other reasons. Deck filler portion 90 includes a plurality of transversely-extending inflatable bladders. As illustrated, deck filler portion 90 includes two bladder sections located beneath the head and seat sections of the mattress, respectively, and is located outside of cover 12. Deck filler portion 90 may include one or more bladder regions, or maybe located within interior region 14, without departing from the scope of the present invention.
Also provided in the illustrated embodiment are a pneumatic valve box 58 and an air supply tube assembly 82. Receptacle 88 is sized to house pneumatic valve box 58. In the illustrated embodiment, receptacle 88 is coupled to bottom cover portion 18 by Velcro® strips. Pneumatic box 58 is described below with reference to
In the illustrated embodiment, support layer 20 includes a breathable or air permeable material which provides cushioning or support for a patient positioned thereon and allows for circulation of air underneath a patient. The circulated air maybe at ambient temperature, or maybe cooled or warmed in order to achieve desired therapeutic effects.
Also in the illustrated embodiment, support layer 20 includes or is enclosed in a low friction air permeable material (such as spandex, nylon, or similar material) enclosure that allows support layer 20 to move with movement of a patient on patient support 10, in order to reduce shear forces, for instance. In other embodiments, the enclosure is made of a non-air permeable, moisture/vapor permeable material such as Teflon or urethane-coated fabric.
In
Any number of layers and sublayers maybe provided as maybe desirable in a particular embodiment of support layer 20. Certain embodiments include 4 layers and other embodiments include 8 layers. In general, 0-20 layers of three dimensional material are included in support layer 20.
Suitable three-dimensional materials for use in support layer 20 include a polyester weave such as Spacenet, manufactured by Freudenberg & Co. of Weinheim, Germany, Tytex, available from Tytex, Inc. of Rhode Island, U.S.A., and other woven, nonwoven, or knit breathable support materials or fabrics having resilient portions, microfilaments, monofilaments, or thermoplastic fibers. Other embodiments of support layers and suitable three dimensional materials are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/119,980, entitled PRESSURE RELIEF SUPPORT SURFACE, filed on May 2, 2005, and assigned to the assignee of the present invention, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by this reference.
An exemplary second support layer including a base 96 and a plurality of inflatable bladders is shown in the side view of
In
Delivery tube 92 is connected to an air supply and provides air to air distributor 94. In the illustrated embodiment, delivery tube extends transversely and/or diagonally across the width of patient support 10 and maybe curved or angled toward seat section bladder zone 62. Tube 92 and distributor 94 may be made of a lightweight air impermeable material such as plastic.
As shown in
In the illustrated embodiment, air provided by delivery tube 92 does not bleed upwardly through cover 12, however, in other embodiments cover 12 may include a breathable or air permeable material allowing for air to flow upwardly through the cover 12 to the patient. Also, in other embodiments, a single supply tube may be provided in place of delivery tube 92 and air distributor 94. While shown in the illustrated embodiment, the above-described air circulating feature is not necessarily a required component of the present invention.
Another embodiment of a low air loss device 91′ is shown in
As shown in
As shown in
One example of supply tube 600 is shown in
In alternative embodiments, enclosure 602 does not include support layer 20. In this embodiment, the opening 612 maybe located near foot end 606 or along at least one of the sides of the enclosure. In alternative embodiments, supply tube 600 attaches to enclosure 602 at the head end 604 or anywhere on the enclosure such as on a top surface 608, a bottom surface 610, or on a side surface (not shown) of the enclosure. In certain embodiments, supply tube 600 is integral with enclosure 602. In other embodiments, supply tube 600 attaches to a fitting (not shown).
In other embodiments, supply tube 600 is split by a T-fitting (not shown) and attaches to enclosure 602 in two or more locations. The supply tube in this embodiment is formed of PVC but may be formed from plastic or any other conventional tubing material.
Each bolster assembly 76,78 includes a plurality of bolsters, namely, an upper bolster 140 and a lower bolster 142, with the upper bolster 140 being positioned above the lower bolster 142. Each upper and lower bolster combination 140, 142 is configured to be positioned along a longitudinal edge of patient support 10. Each upper and lower bolster combination 140, 142 is enclosed in a cover 138.
In the illustrated embodiment, the bolsters 140, 142 are inflatable bladders. In other embodiments, either or both bolsters 140, 142 maybe constructed of foam, or filled with three-dimensional material, fluid, or other suitable support material. For example, in one embodiment, upper bolster 140 includes two layers of foam: a viscoelastic top layer and a non viscoelastic bottom layer, while lower bolster 142 is an inflatable bladder. The bolsters 140, 142 maybe inflated together, or separately, as shown in
In the illustrated embodiment, each support plate 144 is a rectangular member extending transversely across the width of the mattress 10. As shown in the drawings, there are five such rib-like members 144 spaced apart underneath the head and seat sections of the mattress. In other embodiments, each support plate 144 has its middle section (i.e., the section extending transversely) cut out so that only the two plate ends remain at each spaced-apart end (underneath the bolsters); thereby providing five pairs of support plates 144 spaced apart along the longitudinal length of the mattress 10.
Bolster assembly 86 is similar to bolster assemblies 76, 78 except that its upper layer includes the vertical bladders 50 of longitudinal sections 214, 216. Bolster assembly 86 has a longitudinally-oriented bladder as its lower bolster portion.
A schematic diagram of the pneumatic control system of patient support 10 is shown in
As shown in
An air line 150 couples each zone 160 to a valve assembly 162 in valve box 58. Valve box 58 is located in the foot section 34 of patient support 10. Illustratively, valve box 58 is releasably coupled to bottom portion 18 of cover 12 in interior region 14, i.e., by one or more Velcro®-brand fasteners or other suitable coupler.
Each air line 150 is coupled at one end to an inlet port 135 on the corresponding bladder or bladder assembly. Each air line 150 is coupled at its other end to a valve assembly 162. Each valve assembly 162 includes first or fill valve 163 and a second or vent valve 165. First valves 163 are coupled to air supply 152 of control unit 42 by air lines 148. First valves 163 thereby operate to control inflation of the corresponding zone 160 i.e. to fill the zone with air. Second valves 165 operate to at least partially deflate or vent the corresponding zone 160, for example, if the internal air pressure of the zone 160 exceeds a predetermined maximum, or if deflation is necessary or desirable in other circumstances (such as a medical emergency, or for transport of patient support 10).
Each valve 163, 165 has an open mode 224 and a closed mode 226, and a switching mechanism 228 (such as a spring) that switches the valve from one mode to another based on control signals from control unit 42. In closed mode 226, air flows from air supply 152 through the valve 163 to the respective zone 160 to inflate the corresponding bladders, or in the case of vent valves 165, from the zone 160 to atmosphere. In open mode 228, no inflation or deflation occurs.
In the illustrated embodiment, an emergency vent valve 230 is provided to enable quick deflation of turning bladders 74 which draws air from atmosphere through a filter 164 and also vents air to atmosphere through filter 164. Air supply 152 is an air pump, compressor, blower, or other suitable air source.
Air supply 152 is coupled to a switch valve 166 by air line 146. Switch valve 166 operates to control whether inflation or deflation of a zone occurs. An optional proportional valve 171 maybe coupled to air line 148 to facilitate smooth inflation or deflation of turn-assist bladders 74, or for other reasons.
In the illustrated embodiment, valve box 58 includes a first valve module 156 and a second valve module 158. First valve module 156 includes valves generally associated with a patient's first side (i.e., first side, from the perspective of a patient positioned on patient support 10) and second valve module 158 includes valves generally associated with a patient's second side (i.e., second side).
The various zones 160 are separately inflatable. Certain of the zones 160 are inflated or deflated to allow patient support 10 to conform to different bed frame configurations. For example, the deck filler 90 (zone 10 in
The sensor pad 52 is coupled through the associated cabling to the pneumatic control box 58. The pneumatic control box 58 includes a multiplexer 508 coupled to the head sensor pad 68 and the seat sensor pad 70 through a signal and control line 510. The multiplexer board 508 is also coupled to an air control board 512 which is in turn coupled to a first valve block 514 and a second valve block 516. A communication/power line 518 is coupled to the control unit 42 of
The control unit 42 of
An algorithm control board 526 is coupled to the user interface input device 524. The algorithm control board 526 receives user generated input signals received through the input device 524 upon the selection of such functions by the user. The input device 524 can include a variety of input devices, such as pressure activated push buttons, a touch screen, as well as voice activated or other device selectable inputs. The algorithm control board 526 upon receipt of the various control signals through the user input device 524 controls not only the operation of the mattress 10 but also a variety of other devices which are incorporated into the control unit 42. For instance, the algorithm control board 526 is coupled to a display board 528 which sends signals to the display 44 to which it is coupled. The display board 528 is also connected to a speaker 530 which generates audible signals which might indicate the selection of various features at the input device 24 or indicate a status of a patient positioned on patient support (e.g. exiting) or indicate a status of therapy being provided to the patient (e.g., rotational therapy complete). The algorithm control board 526 receives the required power from power supply 532 which includes an AC input module 534, typically coupled to a wall outlet within a hospital room.
The algorithm control board 526 is coupled to an air supply, which, in the illustrated embodiment includes a compressor 536 and a blower 538. Both the compressor 536 and the blower 538 receive control signals generated by the algorithm control board 526. The compressor 536 is used to inflate the air bladders. The blower 538 is used for air circulation which is provided through the ventilation supply line 520 to the mattress 10. It is, however, possible that the compressor 536 may be used to both inflate the bladders and to circulate the air within the mattress 10. A pressure/vacuum switch valve 540 is coupled to the compressor 536 which is switched to provide for the application of air pressure or a vacuum to the mattress 10. A muffler 541 is coupled to the valve 540. In the pressure position, air pressure is applied to the mattress 10 to inflate the mattress for support of the patient. In the vacuum position, the valve 540 is used to apply a vacuum to the bladders therein such that the mattress maybe placed in a collapsed state for moving to another location or for providing a CPR function, for example. A CPR button 542 is coupled to the algorithm control board 526.
As illustrated, the algorithm control board 526, the compressor 536, the blower 538, and the user input device or user control module 524 are located externally to the mattress and are a part of the control unit 42, which maybe located on the footboard 38 as shown in
As shown in
As discussed above, first and second valve modules 156, 158 include fill valves 163 and vent valves 165. First valve module 156 includes fill valves 163a-f and vent valves 165a-f. Second valve module 158 includes fill valves 163g-l and vent valves 165g-l. Fill valves 163a-l and vent valves 165a-l are 12 Volt 7 Watt solenoid direct active poppet style valves in the illustrated embodiment. Control board 252 is able to actuate each fill valve 163a-l and vent valve 165a-l independently or simultaneously. Fill valves 163a-l and vent valves 165a-l are all able to be operated at the same time. In operation to initiate each valve 163, 165, control board 250 sends a signal to the valve to be operated. The signal causes a coil (not shown) within each valve to energize for ½ second and then switches to pulsate power (i.e., turn on and off at a high rate) to save power during activation. The activation in turn cause the valve to either open or close depending on which valve is initiated.
Fill valves 163 are coupled to air supply 152 of control unit 42 by second air line 148. Air line 148 includes an outer box line assembly 260 and an inner box line assembly 262. Outer box line assembly 260 includes an exterior inlet hose 264 and an elbow 266 coupled to exterior inlet hose 264. Inner box line assembly 262 includes an interior inlet hose 268 coupled to elbow 266, a union tee connector 270, a first module hose 272, and a second module hose 274. Connector 270 includes a first opening 276 to receive interior inlet hose 268, a second opening 278 to receive first module hose 272, and a third opening 280 to receive second module hose 274. First and second module hoses 272, 274 each couple through a male coupler 282 to first and second valve modules 156, 158 respectively. In operation, air from air supply 152 travels through supply line 148, enters outer box line assembly 260 through exterior inlet hose 264 and passes through elbow 266 to interior inlet hose 268. The air then travels from inlet hose 268 to union tee connector 270 where the air is divided into first module hose 272 and second module hose 274. The air passes through first and second module hoses 272, 274 into first and second valve modules 156, 158 respectively. The operation of first and second valve modules 156, 158 is described below.
Control box 58 includes a base 284, a cover 286, and a tray 288. Cover 286 includes a plurality of fasteners (i.e., screws) 290. Base 284 includes a plurality of threaded cover posts 292. Cover posts 292 are configured to receive screws 290 to couple cover 286 to base 284. Cover 286 and base 284 define an inner region 298. Tray 288 couples to base 284 with a plurality of rivets 291 riveted through a plurality of rivet holes 293 located on tray 288 and base 284.
Inner box line assembly 262, first valve module 156, second valve module 158, control board 250, and multiplexer 252 are contained within inner region 298. Base 284 further includes a plurality of control board posts 294, a plurality of multiplexer posts 296, and a plurality of module posts 300. First and second valve modules 156, 158 are coupled to module posts 300 by shoulder screws 302 and washers 304. Control board 250 and multiplexer 252 are respectively coupled to control board posts 294 and multiplexer posts 296 by a plurality of snap mounts 306.
First and second valve modules 156, 158 attach to third air lines 150a, b, d-f, and g-l through a plurality of couplers 308. Couplers 308 include a first end 310 and a second end 312. Third air lines 150a, b, d-f, and g-l each include a fitting (not shown) receivable by second end 312. Each first end 310 mounts to a port 314 in first and second valve modules 156, 158. First end 310 mounts through a plurality of openings 316 in base 284.
A plurality of feedback couplers 318 mount through a plurality of feedback openings 320 in base 284. Feedback couplers 318 include a first feedback end 322 and a second feedback end 324. First feedback end 322 couples to a feedback line (not shown) that in turn couples to a feedback port 135 located on each air zone 160. Second feedback end 324 receives a feedback transfer line 326. Each transfer line 326 couples to a pressure transducer 328 located on the control board 250. Pressure transducer 328 receives the pressure from each air zone 160 and transmits to control unit 42 a pressure data signal representing the internal air pressure of the zone 160. Control unit 42 uses these pressure signals to determine the appropriate pressures for certain mattress functions such as CPR, patient transfer, and max-inflate. Pressure signals from the transducer 328 coupled to the foot zone 160k are also used to maintain optimal pressure in foot zone 160k. In the illustrated embodiment, pressure in foot zone 160k (zone 3) is computed as a percentage of the pressure in seat zone 160e (zone 2). The pressures in seat zone 160e and head zone 160f are determined using both the transducers 328 and the pressure sensors 136. The pressures in one or more of the zones 160 maybe adjusted in real time.
As shown in
In one embodiment, a user enters an input command to control unit 42. Control unit 42 processes the input command and transmits a control signal based on the input command through communication line 258 to control board 250. Additionally or alternatively, control signals could be based on operational information from control unit 42 to increase or decrease pressure within one or more of the zones 160 based on information obtained from transducers 328 and/or sensors 136.
It should be noted that in the illustrated embodiment, the mattress controls 42, 58 are independent from operation of the bed frame 4. In other embodiments, however, bed frame 4 and mattress 10 maybe configured to exchange or share data through communication lines. For instance, data is communicated from bed frame 4 to mattress system 42, 58 and used to adjust support parameters of mattress 10. For instance, in one embodiment, a signal is transmitted from frame 4 when foot section 34 is retracting, so that mattress systems 42, 58 responds by decreasing internal pressure of vertical bladders 50 in foot assembly 64.
As described above, air supply 152 is capable of supplying air or acting as a vacuum to remove air from zones 160. While in supply mode, a microprocessor on control board 250 actuates corresponding fill valve 163a-l or vent valve 165a-l based on the control signal from control unit 42. For example, if the control signal indicates the pressure in head bladder assembly 160 is to be increased fill valve 163f is actuated. However, if the control signal indicates the pressure in head bladder assembly 160 is to be decreased vent valve 165f is actuated. While in vacuum mode one or more fill valves 163a-l maybe actuated to allow for rapid removal of air within the corresponding zones.
An angle sensor cable 256 is provided to send a signal from a head angle sensor 502 to the control board 250. Angle sensor cable 256 couples to an angle plug 257 of control board 250. In the illustrated embodiment, head angle sensor 502 is located within head bolster assembly 76 as indicated by
As shown in
In
As illustrated in
In
Another embodiment of the supply tube 600, fitting 700, and distributing tubes 800 arrangement is shown in
Referring now to
In the illustrated embodiment, first layer 920 includes an air permeable support material, second layer 950 includes a plurality of inflatable bladders located underneath the first layer 920, and third layer 952 includes a pressure sensing assembly located underneath one or more of the bladders of second layer 950. Patient support 900 may be coupled to a deck 6 by one or more couplers 46 as described above.
Components of patient support 900 are shown in exploded view in
A fire barrier 910 such as Ventex is located underneath coverlet assembly 916. A first support layer 920 is located below top cover portion 916 in interior region 914. First support layer 920 includes one or more layers of an air permeable three-dimensional material encased in Lycra® or similar material. Suitable three-dimensional materials include Spacenet, Tytex, and/or similar materials. In the illustrated embodiment, layer 920 includes a combination of a three-dimensional polyester spacer fabric and a polyester spring fabric such as Spacenet. In one embodiment, one layer of spacer fabric and four layers of Spacenet are provided. In one embodiment, the Spacenet layers are positioned beneath the spacer fabric.
A second support layer 950 including one or more inflatable bladder assemblies, is located underneath the first support layer 920. The illustrated embodiment of the second support layer 950 includes first, second and third bladder assemblies, namely, a head section bladder assembly 960, a seat section bladder assembly 962, and a foot section bladder assembly 964. First bladder assembly 960 and second bladder assembly 962 include transverse or log shaped bladders 963. Bladders 963 may be coupled together by an integrated base such that they may be removable together as a zone. Bladders 963 may also be individually removable. Communication of fluid to/or from the bladders 963 may be provided by a plenum and ports provided for each mattress zone or by separate ports provided for each bladder. Third bladder assembly 964 includes upright can- or cylinder-shaped bladders 965 as described above. In this embodiment, bladder assemblies 960, 962, 964 are formed from a polyurethane coated nylon twill.
A pressure-sensing layer 969 including first and second sensing assemblies, namely a head sensor assembly 968 and a seat sensor assembly 970, is positioned beneath bladder assemblies 960 and 962. Head sensor assembly 968 is generally aligned underneath head section bladder assembly 960, and seat sensor assembly 970, is generally aligned underneath seat section bladder assembly 962. An additional sensing assembly may also be provided in the foot section of the patient support and data therefrom may be used to determine whether to adjust pressure in one or more of the mattress bladders or to activate or deactivate mattress features or therapies.
Each sensor assembly 968, 970 includes two bladder pads 1045 and associated electronics and circuitry, as shown in
In the illustrated embodiment, sensing assemblies 968 and 970 are supported by bolster assemblies 976, 978, respectively, as shown in
In the illustrated embodiment, each bladder assembly 1045 includes a fluid-filled bladder located between a pair of support members or “wings” 1047. The fluid-filled bladder 1046 and associated wings 1047 extend transversely across the width of the patient support 900 and are supported by a middle section 1040 of the support plate 1044. Bladder 1046 is filled with a silicone oil or gel. Wings 1047 are made of the same material as the bladder 1046 and are configured to secure the bladder 1046 in place. A corresponding circuit board 1051 for each of the bladder pads 1045 is supported by an outer edge section 1042 of the support plate. Circuit boards 1051 are thus positioned below the bolsters 976, 978 and above the plates 1044. A pressure transducer 1048 and a connector 1050 are provided on each circuit board 1051. The pressure transducer 1048 measures fluid pressure in the associated fluid filled bladders 1046, and transmits pressure signals to a pressure sensor hub board 1252 (
Referring back to
A plurality of other support components 966, 974, 980, 984, 990, 992, 994, 996 are also provided in the embodiment of
The support components illustrated in
Also provided in the illustrated embodiment is a pneumatic valve box 958. In the illustrated embodiment, receptacle 958 is removably secured to bottom cover portion 918. Pneumatic box 958 is described below with reference to
The low air loss device 1091 moves air through the layer 920, typically at about 2 to 10 cubic feet per minute. In general, low air loss devices are designed to aid in controlling the moisture level and the temperature of the patient.
In the embodiment of
In the embodiment of
Head angle sensor 1502 and foot angle sensor 1262 are coupled to the control box 958 whereby signals from the sensor 1502 provide head angle information for adjusting pressure in one or more of the bladder zones 960, 962, 964. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, head angle sensor 1502 is located within the interior region of the head section of the mattress 900, and foot angle sensor 1262 is located within the interior region of the foot section of the mattress 900. Foot angle sensor 1262 is further located within the control box 958 within the interior region of the mattress 900.
The sensor assembly 952 is coupled through the associated cabling to the pneumatic control box 958. The pneumatic control box 958 includes the sensor hub board 1252 coupled to the head sensor assembly 968 and the seat sensor pad 970 through a signal and control line 1510. The sensor hub board 1252 is also coupled to an air control board 1250 which is in turn coupled to a first valve block 1254 and a second valve block 1256. A communication/power line 1518 is coupled to the control unit 1542. Likewise, a ventilation or low air loss supply line 1520, 1504, is also coupled to the control unit 1542. An air pressure/vacuum supply line 1522 is coupled to the control unit 1542 as well.
The control unit 1542 is similar to that shown and described above. In general, mattress 900 uses serial communication and a Controller Area Network (CAN) communication protocol along with a CAN open-based application layer for communication between the various modules of the mattress system. A “masterless” system (as opposed to a “master-slave” system) is used. Signals are transmitted across the network from sensors and other components to the algorithm control unit, which then activates or deactivates components based on its processing of the signals and sends corresponding control signals out across the network, for example to activate or deactivate the air supply or blower or open or close certain valves.
Control unit 1542 includes a display 1544, which displays user interface screens, and a touch screen user interface input device 1524 for inputting to the control unit 1542 user selectable information, such as the selection of various functions or features of the present device. The selections made on the user interface input device 1524 control the operation of the patient support 900, which can include selectable pressure control of various bladders within the mattress 900, as well as displaying the current state of the mattress or its position, and other features.
In the illustrated embodiment of the control unit 1542, an algorithm control board 1526 is coupled to the user interface input device 1524. The algorithm control board 1526 receives user generated input signals received through the input device 1524 upon the selection of such functions by the user. The input device 1524 can include a variety of input devices, such as pressure activated push buttons, a touch screen, as well as voice activated or other device selectable inputs. The algorithm control board 1526 upon receipt of the various control signals through the user input device 1524 controls the operation of the mattress 900 and a variety of other devices which are incorporated into the control unit 1542. For instance, the algorithm control board 1526 is coupled to a display board 528 which sends signals to the display 1544 to which it is coupled. The display board 528 is also connected to a speaker 1530 which generates audible signals which might indicate the selection of various features at the input device 1524 or indicate a status of a patient positioned on patient support (e.g. exiting) or indicate a status of therapy being provided to the patient (e.g., rotational therapy complete) or indicate a status or condition of the mattress itself. The algorithm control board 1526 receives the required power from power supply 1532 which includes an AC input module 1534, typically coupled to a wall outlet within a hospital room.
The algorithm control board 1526 is coupled to an air supply, which, in the illustrated embodiment includes a compressor 1536 and a blower 1538. Both the compressor 1536 and the blower 1538 receive control signals generated by the algorithm control board 1526. The compressor 1536 is used to inflate the air bladders. The blower 1538 is used for low air loss air circulation which is provided through the ventilation supply line 1520, 1504 to the mattress 900. It is, however, possible that the compressor 1536 may be used to both inflate the bladders and to circulate the air within the mattress 900. A pressure/vacuum switch valve 1540 is coupled to the compressor 1536 which is switched to provide for the application of air pressure or a vacuum to the mattress 900. A muffler 1541 is coupled to the valve 1540. In the pressure position, air pressure is applied to the mattress 900 to inflate the mattress for support of the patient. In the vacuum position, the valve 1540 is used to apply a vacuum to the bladders therein such that the mattress maybe placed in a collapsed state for moving to another location or for providing a CPR function, for example. A CPR button 1542 is coupled to the algorithm control board 1526.
As illustrated, the algorithm control board 1526, the compressor 1536, the blower 1538, and the user input device or user control module 1524 are located externally to the mattress and are a part of the control unit 1542, which may be located on the footboard 38 as shown in
As describe above, control unit 1542 provides a graphical display by which an authorized person, such as a caregiver or technician, may interact with the patient support 900.
Bed icon 1606 graphically depicts the current status of the mattress 900. For example, icon 1606 changes as the head angle or foot angle of the mattress 900 changes from the horizontal position. A graphical depiction of a person appears if the mattress is occupied. Buttons 1608, 1610, 1612 activate or deactivate the max-inflate or turn-assist mattress therapies. Enable key 1614 locks or unlocks other buttons on the interactive display. Display area 1616 indicates mattress features that are currently unavailable. For example, if the head angle of the mattress is greater than 30.degree., turn assist buttons 1610, 1612 will be disabled. If no features are currently disabled, no icons will be shown in display are 1616.
Graphical indication 1618 is shown on display 1600 if the head angle of the mattress 900 is greater than 30.degree. and the mattress is occupied. Notification 1620 includes a graphical symbol such as a depiction of a telephone receiver, when an error condition is detected in the mattress. If the mattress is operating without any error conditions, icon 1622 will not be shown. An indication of a telephone number to call and an error code may also be displayed when the icon 1622 is displayed.
As described above, mattress 900 of
Mattress 900 of
In the illustrated embodiment, when mattress 900 detects chair position, certain adjustments are made to the mattress. Pressure in the head zone bladders 960 is reduced slightly and air in the foot zone bladders 964 is evacuated to facilitate a patient's egress from the mattress or to increase the patient's comfort while the patient is in a sitting up position. In additional, mattress therapies such as max-inflate and turn-assist are disabled in chair mode.
While mattress 900 automatically sets and controls the pressure in the bladder zones 960, 962, 964 in many instances, mattress 900 also provides a pressure adjustment feature that enables an authorized person to manually increase or decrease pressure within a defined range in one or more of the zones 960, 962, 964 to increase comfort for an individual patient (i.e., based on the individual patient's preferences).
As shown in
In one embodiment, initial bladder pressures in the head, seat and foot zones are determined and adjusted by the algorithm control unit based on the patients' weight. After a predetermined time delay (i.e., about 3-6 seconds), pressure in the head zone may be adjusted again if the head angle as determined by the head angle sensor has changed. For example, if the head angle is lowered below 30.degree., the pressure in the head section bladders may be adjusted to another predetermined desired level, and likewise if the head angle changes so that it is within the range of 30-45.degree., and again if the head angle increases to 45.degree. or greater.
In the illustrated embodiment, the head angle sensor includes multiple discrete ball sensors that indicate when the head section of the mattress reaches different discrete angles (i.e., 0, 5, 15, 30, 45, 60 degrees). The head angle may also be factored into the initial pressure adjustment along with the patient's weight. In general, the algorithm control unit maintains the “bed occupied-pressure relief” pressures as long as the mattress is in pressure relief mode and the pressure sensors indicate that the mattress is occupied by a patient in a pressure relief position (such as a lying down or prone position). If the pressure sensors indicate that the patient has exited the bed, the mattress transitions to “bed empty” mode, block 1712.
If the sensed head section pressure does not exceed the threshold, then the system proceeds to read the pressure sensed by the seat pressure sensing assembly at block 1708. The pressure sensed in the seat section is compared to a seat section pressure threshold value. The seat section threshold may be the same as or different than the head section threshold value. If the sensed seat zone pressure does not exceed the seat section threshold pressure value, then the system concludes that the mattress is empty or not occupied. In such event, mattress 900 automatically adjusts pressure in the bladder assemblies 960, 962 and/or 964 at block 1712 for the “bed empty” mode, which may include adjusting the pressures to prepare for ingress of another patient. Additionally, pressure in one or more of the bolsters and/or filler bladders may be adjusted according to the type of bed frame supporting the mattress 900.
If the sensed seat zone pressure does exceed the seat section threshold value, the system then performs an additional analysis at block 1714 to access the current position of the mattress. If the system determines that the mattress was previously empty (i.e. in state 1712) then it concludes that the patient has ingressed the bed. In such event, the system adjusts the pressures in the zones 960, 962, 964 to predetermined desirable ingress pressures at block 1718.
If the sensed seat zone pressure exceeds the threshold but the mattress was not previously detected as being empty, the system concludes that a patient is sitting up or preparing to exit or egress the bed and adjusts the pressures in the head, seat and foot zones to predetermined desirable “egress” pressure levels to aid the patient in exiting the bed or to provide additional comfort or support to the patient in the sitting up position, at block 1716. Pressure in the foot bolsters may also be adjusted at block 1716. Such adjustments of pressure in the bolsters may be based on the type of bed frame supporting the patient. The bed frame type may be manually input by an authorized person and stored in memory by the algorithm control unit.
In determining whether a sensed pressure exceeds a threshold value, the amount of pressure sensed (i.e., inches of water) and the period of time over which the pressure is continuously sensed are considered. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a sensed pressure is considered to exceed the threshold if it is greater than or equal to the threshold value continuously for move than 2 seconds. In the illustrated embodiment, the threshold values are determined based on statistical analysis of data obtained through a number of different trials involving occupied and unoccupied mattresses.
In other embodiments, the pressure sensing assemblies 968, 970 may alternatively or in addition be used to determine patient weight. As mentioned above, a strain gauge based sensor may be used in place of the fluid-filled bladder sensors for determining occupancy and/or patient weight. Another algorithm that may be used to determine bed occupancy and/or patient weight is similar to that disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/702,645, filed Jul. 26, 2005, entitled SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING AN AIR MATTRESS, and its corresponding non-provisional counterpart, which are incorporated hereby this reference.
The present invention has been described with reference to certain exemplary embodiments, variations, and applications. However, the present invention is defined by the appended claims and therefore should not be limited by the described embodiments, variations, and applications.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/234,244 filed on Aug. 11, 2016 and entitled “Patient Support with an Air Permeable Layer and with Air Flow Through the Air Permeable Layer Controlled as a Function of Pressure Sensed at a Pressure Sensing Layer”, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/302,740 filed on Jun. 12, 2014 and entitled “Patient Support with Air Bladder Control Sensitive to An Orientation Angle Sensor”, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/701,655 entitled “Patient Support with Orientation Sensitive Bladder Control” filed on Feb. 28, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,832,884, which is a divisional of Ser. No. 11/781,309, entitled “PATIENT SUPPORT” filed on Jul. 23, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,657,956 which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/821,494 entitled “Patient Support” filed on Aug. 4, 2006, the contents of all of which are incorporated herein by reference. The present application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/119,980, entitled PRESSURE RELIEF SURFACE, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/119,991, entitled PATIENT SUPPORT HAVING REAL TIME PRESSURE CONTROL, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/119,635, entitled LACK OF PATIENT MOVEMENT MONITOR AND METHOD, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/120,080, entitled PATIENT SUPPORT, all of which were filed on May 2, 2005, all of which are assigned to the assignee of the present invention, and all of which are incorporated herein by this reference. The present application is also related to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/636,252, entitled QUICK CONNECTOR FOR MULTIMEDIA, filed Dec. 15, 2004, which is assigned to the assignee of the present invention and incorporated herein by this reference. The present application is also related to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/697,748, entitled PRESSURE CONTROL FOR A HOSPITAL BED and corresponding PCT application No. PCT/US06/26787 filed Jul. 7, 2006, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/697,708, entitled CONTROL UNIT FOR A PATIENT SUPPORT, and corresponding PCT application No. PCT/US06/26788 filed Jul. 7, 2006, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/697,723 entitled PATIENT SUPPORT and corresponding PCT Application No. PCT/US06/26620 filed Jul. 7, 2006 and PCT application No. PCT/US05/14897 entitled PATIENT SUPPORT filed May 2, 2005 all of which are incorporated herein by this reference.
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