Adjustable split seat

Abstract

An adjustable seat that can be selectively adjusted to provide pressure relief for the back of the thighs and buttocks. The seat has two adjustable seat sections placed under the user's thighs. In one embodiment, the seat includes the main support body comprising a flat, horizontally aligned lower surface, a perpendicularly aligned, wide rear surface, a vertically aligned narrow front edge, a diagonally aligned upper support surface, and two equal vertically aligned side members. Disposed over the diagonally aligned support surface are two parallel, elastic wedge-shaped seat sections or two inflatable wedge-shaped seat sections. Each elastic or inflatable wedge-shaped seat section is complementary in shape and may create a flat seating surface on the seat accessory when the two wedge-shaped seat sections are longitudinally aligned over the diagonally aligned support surface. Each wedge-shaped seat section covers approximately one-half the diagonally aligned support surface. When one wedge-shaped seat section is removed from the main support body to accommodate the hip replacement patient's affected hip, which should not exceed 70° in flexion, the obtuse angle of the main support body supports the hip's approximate 70° angle of flexion. An optional attachment means is used to selectively connect each elastic wedge-shaped seat section to the main support body. With inflatable wedge seat sections, an air pump and control switch are also provided.

Description

[0001] This is a utility patent application based on a provisional patent application (Ser. No. 60 / 203,742) filed on May 12, 2000.[0002] 1. Field of the Invention[0003] This invention relates to adjustable seats, and more particularly, to seats and seat accessories with adjustable thigh or seat supports intended to relieve pressure on the back of the thigh and buttock and allow individuals with hip flexion restrictions to sit.[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art:[0005] It is well known that prolonged sitting in a car, on a plane or in a chair results in leg discomfort, restlessness, and fatigue. Intermittent pressure relief for the back of the thighs and buttocks is required to prevent fatigue, skin breakdown, and blood clot formation. Special mechanical and weight limitations often prevent adequate leg movement to relieve such pressure on the thighs.[0006] It is also well known that individuals who have undergone hip replacement surgery must limit their hip flexion for several ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009] It is another object of the present invention to allow individuals who have undergone hip surgery to sit with a reduced hip flexion for one leg.

[0011] It is another object of the present invention to provide a seat that can accommodate a reduced hip flexion angle, and provide additional intermittent pressure relief if necessary.

[0012] These and other objects are met by an adjustable split seat that includes two parallel seat sections that enable the user to independently and selectively adjust the angle of his or her upper legs with respect to his or her back. The seat is also designed to allow the user to straighten his or her legs while sitting for greater comfort.

Problems solved by technology

It is well known that prolonged sitting in a car, on a plane or in a chair results in leg discomfort, restlessness, and fatigue.

Special mechanical and weight limitations often prevent adequate leg movement to relieve such pressure on the thighs.

Conventional chairs do not have the means to accommodate these needs while allowing the individual to sit in a normal fashion.

In addition, there are no conventional chairs or seats which can accommodate hip flexion restrictions and provide intermittent pressure relief.

This type of seat does not address the need for relieving pressure on the entire thigh and buttock area to prevent excessive hip flexion as required after hip surgery.

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