Patient support, wheelchair comprising patient support and method for automatic calibration of patient support

Abstract

The invention relates to a patient support (101), preferably a seat cushion, comprising a support area (1) having a base (2), a plurality of fluid units (3) arranged on the seat side of the base (2), a pump (4), in which one or more fluid units (3) each define a pressure zone (6) and each pressure zone (6) is connected to the pump (4) by at least one zone valve (7), and a control unit (5), wherein each zone valve (7) can be actuated by the control unit (5) such that the pressure in each pressure zone (6) can be set by the control unit (5), characterized in that the patient support (101) comprises at least one pressure sensor (8) for measuring the pressure in at least one pressure zone (6), preferably at least one pressure sensor (8) per pressure zone (6).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a patient support, a wheelchair including the patient support, and a method for automatic calibration of the patient support. Background Art

[0002] Pressure ulcers are tissue damages caused by long-term pressure and shear stress. Such pressure usually occurs in immobile patients, such as those who are bedridden or in wheelchairs.

[0003] In the prior art, known patient supports are composed of multiple fluid pads. These fluid pads can withstand a specific pressure, so that a patient placed on the fluid pads will not bear a constant pressure load even when stationary.

[0004] EP2892489A1 discloses a uniformly inflatable mattress with pressure sensors to support patients and prevent bedsores.

[0005] EP1643882 A1 discloses a honeycomb seat cushion and a manufacturing method thereof, which increases the surface area for supporting the seated person, so that blood circulation through tissues can be ensured.

[0006] EP2731567A2 relates to a patient / disabled transport device, which proposes to distribute the pressure of a patient through multiple inflatable pads.

[0007] However, known patient supports are not flexible and cannot be easily customized according to the patient's tissues, so that certain areas cannot be particularly relieved.

[0008] The prior art lacks a patient support that can be simply and intuitively operated and can be flexibly used to prevent damage to the patient's tissues (especially tissues due to lack of blood flow).

[0009] In addition, the prior art lacks a patient support that prevents the patient from being positioned on one side. The prior art also lacks an adaptable patient support that adapts to the orientation and positioning of the patient on the patient support and / or the individual needs of the patient. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The object of the present invention is to overcome these and other drawbacks of the prior art. In particular, the present invention aims to provide a simple patient support for relieving the pressure on the vulnerable areas of the patient. In addition, the present invention also aims to provide an automated patient support, especially a patient support that allows individual relief of particularly vulnerable areas of the patient without affecting the seat stability.

[0011] This task is solved by a patient support, a wheelchair, and a method as defined in the independent claims. Further embodiments are provided by the dependent claims.

[0012] A patient support according to the present invention includes a support area having a base, a plurality of fluid units, a pump, and a control unit. Preferably, the patient support is a seat cushion, such as a pad. The plurality of fluid units are arranged on the seating side of the patient support. One or more of the fluid units each define a pressure zone. Each pressure zone is connected to the pump by at least one zone valve. Each zone valve can be actuated independently by the control unit such that the pressure in each pressure zone can be adjusted by the control unit. The patient support includes at least one pressure sensor for measuring the pressure in at least one pressure zone. Preferably, at least one pressure sensor is arranged in each pressure zone.

[0013] The term "protect / relieve" in this context means that a plurality of areas bear a lower total pressure and / or a lower puncture pressure of one area of the patient. For example, this can be achieved by distributing the gravity over a larger area and / or by making other areas bear more pressure in order to compensate for the gravity acting on the area to be protected / relieved.

[0014] The term "support" in this context means that a plurality of areas of the patient are evenly supported and the supported area is as large as possible so that stable positioning can be achieved.

[0015] The patient support may also include an energy storage device for power supply, such as a storage battery. This has the advantage that the patient support can be used during movement and is not dependent on a local power supply.

[0016] Alternatively, the pressure sensor may be arranged in the pump, in the fluid unit, in the feeder of the pressure zone or in the feeder of the fluid unit of the pump.

[0017] The pressure sensor may be fluidly connected or capable of being fluidly connected to a plurality of pressure zones, preferably via a common supply of the pressure zones. Preferably, the pressure zones can be selectively connected to the pressure sensor, for example via a valve, in particular a zone valve.

[0018] This means that, depending on the open state of the valve (in particular the zone valve), only one pressure sensor, in particular only one pressure sensor, can be installed to measure a plurality of pressure zones. If, for example, only one zone valve is open, the pressures in different pressure zones can be measured independently of each other.

[0019] The pressure sensor may be arranged in the supply area or in the pressure zone, preferably in the fluid unit, in particular close to the inlet valve and / or the outlet valve, in order to simplify the electrical setup. In particular, the pressure sensor may be arranged after the zone valve, after the inlet valve or before the outlet valve in the direction of gas flow during pressurization.

[0020] One or more pressure zones may contain at least two fluid units that are fluidly connected to each other. This simplifies the design of the patient support because fewer valves and / or supply lines are required.

[0021] Alternatively, each pressure zone may be formed by exactly one fluid cell.

[0022] At least two fluid cells of a pressure zone may be arranged directly adjacent to each other. Preferably, a pressure zone having at least two fluid cells has a common supply for pressurizing them together with the fluid under pressure. This may simplify the design of the patient support.

[0023] Furthermore, at least two fluid-connected fluid cells of a pressure zone may be separated from each other by at least one other fluid cell of another pressure zone. This makes the design of the patient support simpler, since multiple fluid cells separated from each other may withstand the same pressure of the pressure zone without separate components (in particular valves).

[0024] The fluid cell may be integrally formed with the seating side of the base (in particular the entire base). Thus, such a fluid cell is spatially fixed relative to the base.

[0025] Alternatively, the fluid cell may be completely enclosed by the inner wall of the fluid cell and have at least one opening for supplying fluid and / or connecting to another fluid cell. Such a fluid cell may be connected to the base only via a feeder. However, preferably the fluid cell is fixed in shape relative to the base.

[0026] The patient support may include a sinking sensor. The sinking sensor is adapted to detect the sinking depth. For example, the sinking sensor may be adapted to detect whether a predefined sinking depth is exceeded.

[0027] The sinking depth may be detected by the curvature or angle of the inner wall section. Alternatively, the sinking depth may be detected by the distance between two inner wall sections or a partial section between two inner wall sections, in particular a reduction relative to the maximum distance between the two inner wall sections or partial sections.

[0028] The inner end wall section is adjacent to the support area such that the sinking depth can be detected in the operating position of the patient support in a substantially vertical direction.

[0029] The sinking sensor may include a non-contact measurement device, in particular an optical or acoustic device. In particular, the sinking sensor may include an interferometer, a grating or a device for time-of-flight measurement.

[0030] The sinking sensor may be arranged partially or entirely in the pressure zone, in particular in the fluid cell.

[0031] The sinking sensor may be configured to detect contact between an inner wall section of at least one fluid cell and another element. The other element may preferably be a relative inner wall section of the fluid cell, the base and / or the sinking sensor.

[0032] The sinking sensor can be arranged in only one fluid unit or multiple fluid units, for example, in the central region of the patient support. This can save material costs and can calibrate the patient support based on the region where the patient sinks most severely.

[0033] Additionally or alternatively, the sinking sensor can be arranged in the rear half of the patient support, preferably at the rear third of the patient support, and / or on the side regions, such that the sinking of the ischial tuberosity and / or the gluteal region can be detected.

[0034] For example, contact can be detected by closing a circuit with at least two electrodes of the sinking sensor. One of the two electrodes can be arranged on one of the inner wall sections of the fluid unit, the base, or the sinking sensor. The other of the two electrodes can be arranged on the same or a different inner wall section, the base, or the sinking sensor.

[0035] Therefore, such a sinking sensor can be particularly reliable and robust in case of failure because it has a simple design and only includes a small number of components that can move relative to each other. Additionally, for example, the sinking sensor is thus independent of environmental influences that can affect capacitive sensors.

[0036] The sinking sensor can also be designed to determine the spatial position of the contact, for example, through a contact network.

[0037] The sinking sensor can, alternatively or additionally, include a resistive, inductive, or capacitive sensor for detecting contact.

[0038] The sinking sensor can include two sections that can move at least partially relative to each other. Alternatively or additionally, the sinking sensor can be able to at least partially deform in one direction. Preferably, the sinking sensor is configured such that it triggers before reaching the maximum sinking depth.

[0039] This allows the sinking sensor to detect before the dangerous area of the patient is no longer sufficiently protected / alleviated. The two sections of the sinking sensor can move perpendicular to each other.

[0040] Such a sinking sensor can be triggered by a predefined deformation of the sinking sensor.

[0041] The sinking sensor can be elastically deformable such that when the deforming force is removed, the sinking sensor can return to its original shape. The elastically deformable sinking sensor can also provide a certain buffering effect for the patient in case of a defect.

[0042] The patient support can be a seat cushion and can be designed for a wheelchair. The seat cushion can have a maximum extension in a direction parallel to a support area of up to 65 cm, preferably up to 55 cm.

[0043] When a patient sits in a wheelchair, it exerts particularly high pressure on the ischial region, especially on the ischial tuberosities and the coccyx region. A seat cushion sized for the wheelchair allows the patient to optimally change position and can prevent damage to the overlying tissue (e.g., in the area of the ischial tuberosities).

[0044] The patient support can have a thickness perpendicular to the support area in the range of 4 cm to 20 cm, especially in the range of 4 cm to 15 cm or 4 cm to 10 cm.

[0045] Such sizing of the patient support makes the patient support easy to transport. In addition, by maximizing the contact area of the patient support and thus protecting vulnerable areas by making the patient support wide enough to fit the patient's contour, the pressure distribution on the patient can be optimized.

[0046] The at least one pressure zone can have a different shape or surface area in a plan view compared to another pressure zone.

[0047] In addition, one fluid cell of a pressure zone can have a different shape or surface area in a plan view of the patient support compared to another fluid cell (especially another fluid cell of the same pressure zone).

[0048] The different shapes or surface areas of the pressure zones / fluid cells can enable the pressure zones / fluid cells to better adapt to particularly vulnerable areas and the patient's contour.

[0049] For example, one or more pressure zones / fluid cells can form a support structure around the pressure zone for accommodating particularly vulnerable parts of the patient in order to relieve them.

[0050] The patient support can have an outlet valve and an inlet valve. The inlet valve can be fluidly connected to a pump. The outlet valve and the inlet valve can be fluidly connected to at least one zone valve, preferably at least two zone valves, and particularly preferably all zone valves.

[0051] Preferably, the patient support has exactly one outlet valve and / or preferably has exactly one inlet valve. This has the advantage that the number of valves required for the patient support can be reduced. Only one additional zone valve per zone is sufficient, so individual pressure zones do not require separate outlet and inlet valves.

[0052] In addition, the patient support can have a three-way valve such that the functions of the outlet valve and the inlet valve can be achieved by the three-way valve.

[0053] At least one valve, preferably all valves, in the group of the inlet valve, the outlet valve, and the zone valve can be normally closed and preferably include a check valve assembly.

[0054] In particular, fluid backflow can be prevented by means of a mechanical reset element of the check valve assembly (in particular one including a spring and a seal), such that no active powering of the valve is required in the closed state.

[0055] The valve that closes on power-off is not susceptible to faults and also ensures that fluid does not completely escape from the pressure zone when power is off.

[0056] During operation, the pump and / or the exhaust muffler can have a noise level of less than 30 dB, preferably less than 25 dB, particularly preferably less than 20 dB, measured, for example, at a maximum distance of 1 m from the patient support.

[0057] The low noise level of the pump and / or the exhaust muffler allows the patient support to be operated without disturbing the patient or people in the vicinity, particularly in a working environment, during daily life or during sleep.

[0058] The pump can be a diaphragm pump or an ultrasonic pump. The diaphragm pump is particularly insensitive to continuous stress and contamination. This enables more durable support for the patient even during long-term operation.

[0059] The patient support can include an elastic cover. When the patient's gravity is applied to the cover, the cover can adapt along the contour of the fluid unit without causing significant forces parallel to the support area.

[0060] A significant force in this context can generally be understood as a force parallel to the support area, the magnitude of which is approximately less than 5% of the magnitude of the patient's gravity acting on the cover. Additionally or alternatively, the cover can also be designed such that a tensile stress on the cover that is less than 30%, particularly 20%, of the contact pressure is caused by the patient's gravity acting thereon.

[0061] By applying a smaller force parallel or perpendicular to the support area, the tensile stress of the cover can be minimized, such that the so-called hammock effect can be avoided. The hammock effect is the support effect on the patient caused by the cover, which can distort the required support effect of the fluid unit.

[0062] The coating can include a macroscopically stretchable structure. The macroscopically stretchable structure can include stitched or folded areas, protrusions, and / or depressions. When a force acting on the cover (in particular the patient's gravity) is applied, the macroscopically stretchable structure can reduce the tensile stress of the cover.

[0063] Such a cover enables as much punctiform elastic support as possible to be provided to the patient through the fluid unit when the patient lies down and avoids tension in the cover. The cover also keeps the patient at a distance from the generally less breathable material of the fluid unit, such that the overlying tissue is better ventilated.

[0064] The cover can also be breathable. This makes it easier to remove moisture from the support area and improves ventilation of the area overlying the patient.

[0065] The coating can comprise or consist of plastics, in particular foams, preferably open-pored / via-pored foams.

[0066] The patient support can comprise at least one humidity sensor and / or temperature sensor for measuring the humidity and / or temperature on the seat side of the base.

[0067] The control unit can be configured to regulate the air supply / extraction in the space between the fluid units based on the measured humidity and / or temperature, in particular by means of at least one additional ventilation valve.

[0068] Alternatively or additionally, the patient support can comprise visual or audible notification elements that can be activated by the control unit. The notification elements can indicate, by means of the light of a light source or the sound of a loudspeaker, that a measured value exceeds a limit or that a fault has occurred. For example, an alarm sound can indicate a fault if a zone valve fails or if the temperature, humidity and / or pressure in the fluid unit / pressure zone is too low or too high.

[0069] Such humidity and / or temperature sensors can detect at an early stage the development of increased skin moisture / skin humidity, which represents an additional risk factor for the development of patient tissue damage.

[0070] The patient support can comprise a ventilation device for supplying and / or removing fluid on the seat side of the base. The ventilation device can be operated by a pump.

[0071] The ventilation device can be switchable and / or adjustable based on a user input, the humidity measurement of the humidity sensor and / or the temperature measurement of the temperature sensor, preferably via the control unit.

[0072] The ventilation device can comprise, for example, a fan, a pump and a ventilation system having a fluid inlet and an outlet. Thus, the ventilation device can remove fluid from the seat area or supply fluid to the seat area.

[0073] The fluid supply / fluid discharge device can be connected, for example, via a ventilation valve to the space between the fluid units, preferably to a plurality of spaces. In addition, the fluid supply / fluid discharge device can have a plurality of fluid supply channels that lead to different spaces between the fluid units in the seat area.

[0074] The ventilation device can further comprise a dehumidification unit that is configured to reduce the moisture content of the supplied fluid by methods known to those skilled in the art (in particular methods based on heat exchange).

[0075] In this context, it can also be envisaged that the ventilation device is configured to dehumidify the interior of the fluid units, the valves and / or the supply devices, for example to compensate for condensation caused by pressure differences.

[0076] The control unit of the patient support or an additional computer device can be designed to detect temporal pressure changes in at least one pressure zone by means of at least one pressure sensor and / or a sinking sensor and assign them to an activity pattern. For example, the control unit can measure the pressure values at predefined time intervals. Alternatively, the frequency of pressure changes (such as can occur, for example, during movement) can be measured.

[0077] For example, the pressure changes over time are recorded by repeated measurements within a predefined time interval or by detecting the time of pressure changes based on when a predefined pressure change is exceeded.

[0078] In this context, an activity pattern is generally a time series of pressure changes in a pressure zone caused by patient movement with a defined period and / or intensity.

[0079] For example, low-intensity pressure changes that occur rarely over a longer period, such as when the patient is asleep, can be assigned to a specific activity pattern.

[0080] Activity patterns can include activity patterns of high-intensity activities (such as exercise), medium-intensity activities (such as eating or reading), and / or low-intensity activities (such as resting or sleeping). Activity patterns can also be assigned to the individual movement patterns of the patient.

[0081] A predefined algorithm (in particular by exceeding a predefined threshold) can be used to assign an activity pattern. The threshold can, for example, represent a predefined frequency, period, and / or intensity of pressure changes within a predefined time period. The algorithm can also be adapted to the patient's body weight.

[0082] Alternatively, the activity pattern can be assigned by classification using machine learning.

[0083] The algorithm or machine classification for assigning the activity pattern can be patient-specific, in particular based on the patient's body structure.

[0084] By assigning a specific activity pattern, the control unit can optimize the control so that tissue damage can be prevented during each patient activity.

[0085] The patient support can be operated in a first operating mode and a second operating mode. In addition, it is also conceivable to provide another operating mode. The control unit can be designed to control the pressurization of the pressure zone such that the first operating mode has a first pressure ratio between at least two pressure zones. In the second operating mode, a second pressure ratio different from the first pressure ratio can be set between the two pressure zones.

[0086] The control unit can be configured to change the operating mode based on the detection of a certain activity pattern.

[0087] Different operating modes allow for personalized adjustment of the pressurization of the patient support according to the needs of the patient.

[0088] The control unit can be designed such that in a first or second operating mode, at least one pressure zone (in particular a group of pressure zones) is pressurized and the pressure is released in a temporally repetitive manner.

[0089] Changing the pressurization over time can prevent the patient from being subjected to unilateral stress over a long period of time and thus minimize tissue damage.

[0090] Alternatively or additionally, the control unit can be designed such that in a first operating mode or a second operating mode, the activity pattern of the patient is detected and the pressurization of the pressure zones is adapted to this activity pattern.

[0091] Alternatively or additionally, the control unit can be designed such that in a first operating mode or a second operating mode, the pressurization of the pressure zones occurs for the stable positioning of the patient.

[0092] Thus, the patient support is suitable for a wide range of applications with different patient activity patterns.

[0093] Alternatively or additionally, the control unit can be designed such that in a first operating mode or a second operating mode, the fluid units (preferably all fluid units) are pressurized until a maximum pressure is reached.

[0094] Pressurizing to the maximum pressure can make it easier to transport the patient to or from the patient support.

[0095] The seat side of the base can be free of fluid units in one area. Preferably, the edge of the base or the area adjacent to the edge is designed to be free of fluid units. The control unit and / or the pump can be arranged in this area of the base.

[0096] Certain areas of the patient support usually cannot accommodate the particularly vulnerable parts of the patient, so these areas do not necessarily need to be supported by fluid units. By positioning the control unit / pump in one of these areas, a more compact patient support can be provided.

[0097] The control unit and / or the pump can be arranged partially or entirely in the same plane as a plurality of fluid units. Thus, the thickness of the patient support can be reduced perpendicular to the base.

[0098] In particular, the control unit and / or the pump can be arranged in an area of the patient support that is intended to accommodate a part of the patient that is not particularly at risk of tissue damage in the operating position.

[0099] Parts of the patient that are not particularly at risk are usually parts that are at a distance from the patient's center of gravity and / or have a uniform weight distribution. For example, for a sitting patient, the area that is not particularly at risk is the lower thigh.

[0100] The patient support may have pressure ports. If an additional device is connected to the patient support via a pressure port, a pump can pressurize at least one additional device through the pressure port.

[0101] The pressure ports can be closed in the standard state and can only be opened when an additional device is connected.

[0102] The additional device can be an extension of the patient support, which can be connected to the patient support and particularly includes one or more fluid units that form at least one pressure zone.

[0103] Thus, the patient support can be easily extended and adapted to a wide range of other applications.

[0104] A system can include a patient support as described above and such additional devices. Thus, the system, for example, can support the patient's back through the additional device in addition to supporting the patient's buttocks through the patient support. The additional device can also be another patient support.

[0105] Overpressure valves can be assigned to at least one fluid unit and / or pressure zone, preferably at least one fluid unit for each pressure zone.

[0106] The overpressure valves can avoid load peaks in the fluid units or pressure zones and thus prevent damage to the patient support.

[0107] The fluid units can be made of or composed of plastic. Preferred plastics are silicone, vulcanized rubber, polyurethane, polychloroprene, poly(organo)siloxane, polyisoprene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, and / or polyester. The fluid units preferably include or are composed of a film material (especially a plastic film). The plastic film preferably includes or is composed of one of the above plastics.

[0108] These plastics are airtight and can deform elastically sufficiently.

[0109] The base can also be made of or include the said plastic material. A base made of such plastic realizes a flexible base of the patient support, so that it can optimally adapt to the support area, especially the seat surface, such as the surface of a wheelchair.

[0110] The patient support can include a wireless communication interface for sending status data of the patient support and / or receiving user input data, especially for selecting an operation mode for operating the patient support.

[0111] Such a wireless communication interface simplifies the monitoring of the patient positioning status data and enables more convenient operation through user input.

[0112] The wireless communication interface can preferably communicate with the user's terminal device (such as a smartphone, tablet computer or laptop) in a frequency band between 2.402 GHz and 2.480 GHz.

[0113] The patient support can include a data memory and a computing unit. The computing unit can be used to calculate at least one target pressure value of at least one pressure zone based on at least one measurement value of a sinking sensor and / or a pressure sensor. The measurement value and / or the target pressure value can be stored in the data memory. The control unit can be used to set the pressure in at least one pressure zone based on the target pressure value.

[0114] The pressure in the fluid unit or pressure zone can be adjustable for a specific patient. In particular, the pressure can be adjustable based on the pressure value previously measured by the sensor (especially based on the previously calibrated pressure value). In this way, the patient support can provide optimized personalized support for each patient.

[0115] The wheelchair can include the patient support as described above.

[0116] The present invention further relates to a method for automatic calibration of a patient support. This method is preferably used to calibrate the patient support as described above. The method includes the step of placing the patient on the patient support so that gravity is applied to the patient support.

[0117] Change the pressure in at least one pressure zone. Determine the pressure when the sinking sensor detects "bottoming out". The above sinking sensor can detect "bottoming out". In particular, "bottoming out" can mean that an inner wall section of at least one fluid unit in the pressure zone contacts another element, preferably an opposite inner wall section of the fluid unit, the base and / or the sinking sensor.

[0118] Save the determined pressure.

[0119] When changing the pressure in at least one pressure zone, the sinking depth can be measured as a function of the pressure. By measuring the sinking depth, the calibration can be further optimized.

[0120] This process can be repeated for another pressure zone, multiple pressure zones (especially two to five) or all pressure zones.

[0121] Using such a method, the patient support can automatically adapt to the personalized needs of the patient. According to the patient's body structure, especially weight, height and the weight distribution across the fluid unit / pressure zone, different pressures are measured, whereby the sinking sensor detects the pressure zone.

[0122] Based on these values, the operating mode can be adapted to the patient. For example, the minimum pressure in the fluid unit can ensure that the patient does not bottom out during operation.

[0123] Based on the determined pressure of the pressure sensor detected by the sink sensor, a target pressure value in at least one pressure zone can be determined. Determining a target pressure value for a pressure zone enables patient-specific adjustment of the individual pressure zone.

[0124] The sink sensor can be arranged in the pressure zone. Based on the determined pressure of the pressure sensor detected by the sink sensor, the pressure in the pressure zone and at least one adjacent pressure zone can be adjusted.

[0125] Thus, not only can the pressure changes in the fluid unit / pressure zone be considered, but also the interaction of the pressure changes in the fluid unit / pressure zone with nearby (especially adjacent) pressure zones. Increasing or decreasing the pressure in at least one adjacent pressure zone enables particular alleviation or loading of a specific pressure zone. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0126] The present invention will be described below with reference to certain embodiments and the accompanying drawings, which show:

[0127] Figure 1 : An oblique view of a first embodiment of a patient support;

[0128] Figure 2A and 2B : Figure 1 Cross-section D of the patient support of

[0129] Figure 2C : Figure 1 Cross-section C of the patient support of

[0130] Figure 3 : Cross-section of a second embodiment of a patient support with a ventilation device;

[0131] Figure 4A and 4B : Cross-sections of a schematic representation of a patient support with a lid with and without a force acting parallel to the lid;

[0132] Figure 5A and 5B : First and second embodiments of a fluid unit with a sink sensor in cross-section;

[0133] Figure 6 : With Figure 1 An oblique view of a wheelchair of an embodiment of the patient support shown in

[0134] Figure 7A : According to Figures 2A to 2CSchematic representation of the valve control of a patient support;

[0135] Figure 7B : According to Figure 3 Schematic representation of the valve control of a patient support;

[0136] Figure 8 : Oblique side view of a user terminal for communicating with a patient support;

[0137] Figures 9A to 9C : First embodiment of a valve;

[0138] Figures 10A to 10C : Second embodiment of a valve;

[0139] Figure 11 : Oblique side view of a third embodiment of a patient support. Detailed Description

[0140] Figure 1 An oblique side view showing a first embodiment of a patient support 101 in the shape of a seat cushion. This embodiment of the patient support 101 is intended for use in a wheelchair and has a seating area 1 arranged on the base 2 of the patient support 101. The base 2 is made of a flexible material, such as polypropylene, polyethylene or rubber, so that the base 2 can adapt to the contour of the support (e.g., wheelchair). In addition, the patient support 101 can thus be transported more easily.

[0141] The patient support 101 has a control area T in which a control unit is arranged. The control area T is arranged at one edge of the patient support 101 so that the patient can place the lower part of the thigh on it, as this body part is not particularly at risk of pressure sores. The control area T only has a flexible pad for buffering the patient and does not have a fluid unit 3. However, alternatively, it is also conceivable to equip the control area with one or more fluid units or pressure zones. The patient is sufficiently supported in the control area T by the flexible pad from the electronic components and the pump.

[0142] In addition, the patient support 101 has a plurality of fluid units 3 made of polyurethane film, which form the seating area 1 together with the control area T and are adhesively bonded to the material of the base 2. Figure 1 Each of the fluid units 3 in forms a pressure zone 6. Figure 1 Seven pressure zones 6 for the main support P and four pressure zones 6 for the auxiliary support S are further shown. However, it is also conceivable that the areas of the main support P and the auxiliary support S include pressure zones formed by a plurality of fluid units 3 (see Figure 11). The fluid units 3 have various shapes, enabling better support for the patient. The geometry and size of the fluid units 3 can be adapted to the support needs of the patient. The ischial tuberosities and the coccyx region of the patient are particularly relieved by the main support P, as this region represents a particularly pressure ulcer - risk area in the body. Some side surfaces 104 of the fluid units 3 of the main support P and the auxiliary support S form an angle with the rectangular edge region of the base 2 in the plan view, so as to enclose the at - risk area. In this way, the patient support can be optimized.

[0143] A pressure port 24 is provided in the rear region of the patient support 101, which is intended for connection to other devices and for applying compressed air to such other devices. For example, the patient's back can be supported by a device (in particular, another patient support that can be connected to the patient support 101) that can be pressurized with compressed air. Figure 2A and Figure 2B is shown in Figure 1 a schematic cross - section D of the central fluid unit 3 of the patient support 101 as shown in. Figure 2C is shown in Figure 1 a cross - section C in the edge region of the patient support 101 schematically shown in.

[0144] Figure 2A shows Figure 1 a cross - section of the patient support 101 without acting forces. An elastic cover 15 is arranged on the seat area 1 and can be adapted to the contour 32 of the fluid unit 3 (see Figure 4A and 4B ). The patient support 101 also has an electronic control unit 5 arranged in the control area T. A flexible foam pad 51 is arranged above the control unit 5 and covers the entire control area T. The control area T does not have fluid units 3. A pump 4 is arranged inside the control unit 5, and the fluid units 3 can be pressurized with compressed air by this pump 4, because the pump 4 inhales ambient air and feeds it into the fluid units 3 through a supply line 27. The pump 4 is a piezoelectric ultrasonic pump known to those skilled in the art, and during operation, it generates a noise level of less than 20 dB at a distance of one meter. In addition, the control unit 5 has a pressure gauge 8 for measuring the pressure in the pressure zone 6. In Figures 2A to 2C , the pressure gauge 8 is connected to the control unit 5 and is arranged at the end of the feeder 27 so that it can be fluid - connected to the pressure zone 6 to measure the pressure. Thus, in Figures 2A to 2C , through a valve that can be controlled by the control unit 5, the pressure gauge 8 can be connected to different pressure zones 6 to measure the pressure in the pressure zone 6 ( Figures 2A to 2C not shown in). Area valves as well as inlet and outlet valves are arranged within the area of the control device 5, so that there is no need for additional pipelines to pass through the base 2 to control the valves. However, in an alternative embodiment, each pressure zone has its own pressure gauge (see Figure 7).

[0145] In addition, each of the two central fluid units 3 of the pressure zone 6 for the main support P has a sinking sensor 9 which is connected to the control unit 5 and detects when a predefined sinking depth of the fluid unit 3 is exceeded (see Figure 5A and 5B ). Figure 2A and Figure 2B The sinking sensors 9 in Figure 2B are arranged in the lower region of the fluid unit 3 adjacent to the base 2 so that a sinking depth exceeding that of the patient's ischium or coccyx region (where the sinking is particularly deep) can be detected. In Figure 5A and Figure 5B ), a predefined sinking depth is achieved by contact between the inner wall section 30 of the fluid unit and the sinking sensor 9 causing the electrical contact to close (see

[0146] ). The control unit 5 is configured to control the pump 4 based on the pressure value measured by the pressure gauge 8 and / or the sinking depth of the sinking sensor 9. Each pressure zone 6 can be supplied with compressed air separately by the pump 4 through a separate supply line 27 having a separate zone valve 7 (see Figure 7).

[0146] For better visibility, only the supply line 27 for compressed air to the pressure zone 6 in the main support region P extending within the base 2 is shown in Figures 2A to 2C . However, Figure 2B the three fluid units 3 for the main support P can each be pressurized separately by the supply line 27. The supply lines 27 each have a zone valve within the region of the control device 5 such that they can be pressurized selectively. For better visibility, Figure 2A and Figure 2B the main region P is shown in dashed lines. Each fluid unit 3 is connected to the base 2. Alternatively, the fluid units 3 forming a common pressure zone 6 can be fluidly connected to each other by at least one line (see Figure 11 ).

[0147] Figure 2A A patient support 101 without acting force is shown such that the seat area 1 is not deformed.

[0148] Figure 2B A patient support 101 of a patient 11 with an acting gravity 16 in the first operation mode 21 is shown. In Figure 2BIn this exemplary first operating mode 21, the control unit 5 is configured to support the patient as evenly as possible by means of the fluid unit 3 while preventing the patient 11 from sagging. Under normal circumstances, the patient 11 should not be supported on a hard surface (except for calibration), but rather by the fluid unit. In particular, the patient should generally not sink into the surface of the sink sensor 9. However, the control unit 5 in the first operating mode 21 is configured to ensure the highest possible sink depth during normal operation without triggering the sink sensor 9, such that the support surface for supporting the patient 11 can be maximized.

[0149] For this purpose, the control unit 5 can be calibrated by reducing the pressure within at least one fluid unit body 3. Thus, the sink sensor 9 can detect at which fluid unit 3 the patient 11 is located and, preferably, at which pressure value of the pressure gauge 8 the predefined sink depth is exceeded. Figure 2B The exceeding of the predefined sink depth or pressure value is shown by the contact between the upper inner wall section 30 of the fluid unit 3 deflected by the gravity 16 and the sink sensor 9. When the predefined sink depth is exceeded, the electrical contacts of the circuit of the sink sensor 9 close and the sink sensor 9 is triggered. Alternatively, the detection can be carried out by interrupting the electrical contact.

[0150] Furthermore, it is also conceivable to carry out calibration using an initially unpressurized fluid unit 3 / pressure zone 6. For such calibration, the pressure of the fluid unit 3 should be increased rather than decreased. At the same time, the remaining fluid units 3 can be pressurized with a reference pressure (in particular the minimum or maximum pressure). Thus, the sink sensor 9 detects the pressure at which the inner wall section 30 no longer contacts the sink sensor 9 due to the gravity 16 (e.g., due to the loss or establishment of the electrical contact of the sink sensor 9). Thus, when the inner wall section 30 contacts the sink sensor 9, the circuit can close or open; conversely, when the inner wall section 30 is removed from the sink sensor, the circuit can open or close.

[0151] The control unit 5 can perform patient-specific calibration based on this detected value or multiple such values for different fluid units 3. For this purpose, the control unit 5 has a computing unit with an internal electronic data memory. In particular, the optimal target pressure value for the fluid unit 3 can be determined by the computing unit of the patient support 101 and stored in the data memory. In this way, the surgical modes 21, 22 can be adapted to the individual needs of the patient 11. The patient-specific values and operating modes 21, 22 are stored in the data memory for the patient, such that the same patient 11 does not have to be recalibrated.

[0152] Furthermore, the aforementioned calibration can ensure that the upper inner wall section 30 of the fluid unit 3 does not tilt towards the base 2 in the operating modes 21, 22. Each pressure zone 6 can be pressurized with compressed air at different pressure ratios according to the operating modes 21, 22.

[0153] Figure 2C Shows a cross-section of the patient support 101 in the edge region of the patient support 101 in the second operating mode 22 with the patient-acting gravity 16. In this exemplary second operating mode 22, the control unit 5 is configured to specifically relieve the critical ischial or gluteal region 111 of the patient 11. For this purpose, the fluid unit 34 of the auxiliary support S around the fluid unit 33 receiving the critical ischial region 111 of the patient 11 is pressurized with compressed air to a greater extent than the fluid unit 33 receiving the critical ischial region 111. For better visibility, the region of the auxiliary support S is shown in Figure 2C in thin dashed lines, and the central region of the main support P is shown in thick dashed lines. By changing the support of the adjacent region 112 of the critical region 111, damage to the tissue of the patient 11, in particular the formation of pressure ulcers, can be avoided. In Figure 2C only a single fluid unit 33 forming the pressure zone 6 is shown as an example of accommodating the critical region 111. However, it is also conceivable to have a pressure zone 6 comprising a plurality of fluid units 3, which pressure zone 6 is relieved by one or more adjacent pressure zones 6 (see Figure 11 ).

[0154] The patient support 101 also has a plurality of different such operating modes 21, 22. The control unit 5 is also configured to automatically select and adjust the operating modes 21, 22 based on the movement of the patient 11.

[0155] The movement of the patient 11 is assigned to an activity pattern by measuring the temporal pressure changes in the pressure zone 6 by means of the pressure gauge 8 and / or the sinking sensor 9. Based on the activity pattern, the operating modes 21 and 22 are set or adjusted. In addition, the control unit 5 is configured to switch more frequently between the operating modes 21 and 22 according to the assigned activity pattern in order to avoid unilateral loading. In the case of an activity pattern in which the patient 11 moves less, for example when the patient 11 is at rest or asleep, the operating modes 21 and 22 are typically changed particularly frequently by the control unit 5. The change between the operating modes 21 and 22 is repeated periodically by the control unit 5.

[0156] In the case of an activity pattern with a large amount of movement of the patient 11 (e.g. during exercise), the control unit 5 automatically sets different operating modes 21, 22. The control unit 5 also configures the operating modes 21, 22 in such a way that when there is a large amount of movement, the positioning of the patient is optimized by applying significantly more compressed air to the support and less vulnerable regions S of the patient support 101 than to the central main support region P.

[0157] The control unit 5 also has a wireless communication interface for sending and receiving data. The user can preferably easily connect a smartphone to the communication interface via an application. Thus, the user can view the status data of the patient support 101, in particular the status data or patient data stored on the data memory of the patient support 101. In addition, the user can send inputs to the communication interface, for example to change the operating modes 21, 22. The computing unit of the control unit 5 is also configured to perform patient-specific adjustment of the operating modes 21, 22 based on user inputs. Based on user inputs, certain preferences for controlling the operating modes 21, 22 can be adjusted, such as the time period after the operating modes 21, 22 are changed. In addition, the calibration of the patient support can be performed, stored and automatically assigned to a specific user by user input.

[0158] In addition, for example, the user can set the operating modes 21, 22 for transporting the patient 11. In these operating modes 21, 22, all fluid units 3 are fully pressurized with compressed air so that the patient 11 can be easily lifted and / or slid out of the patient support 101.

[0159] Figure 3 A cross-section of a second embodiment of the patient support 101 with a ventilation device 20 is shown. The ventilation device 20 is connected to the pump 4 so that the ventilation device 20 can operate together with the pump 4. The ventilation device 20 has a plurality of channels 201, 202 leading to the space 104 between the fluid units 3. The channels 201, 202 of the ventilation device 20 extend through the base 2 of the patient support 101. Thus, the air circulation from the seating side of the base 2 of the patient support 101 is improved by the air supply or air discharge driven by the pump 4. The cover 15 above the fluid unit 3 is designed to be breathable so that the area where the patient lies can be better ventilated. This has the advantage that the formation of moisture due to sweat in the overlying area can be reduced. Thus, the risk of skin softening due to moisture accumulation and the associated reduction in skin elasticity can be reduced.

[0160] Figure 3 The control unit 5 connected to the humidity sensor 18 and the temperature sensor 19 is also shown. The humidity sensor 18 and the temperature sensor 19 are partially arranged in the intermediate space 104 so that the temperature and humidity in the seating area 1 of the patient support 101 can be detected. Alternatively or additionally, one or more humidity sensors 18 and temperature sensors 19 can be arranged between the fluid units 3 in particularly vulnerable areas for the main support P. For better visibility, Figure 3 the main support area is shown in dashed lines. In addition, as Figures 2A to 2C shown, the control unit 5 is connected to the pressure gauge 8 and the sinking sensor 9.

[0161] The control unit 5 has a computer unit that operates the ventilation device 20 based on humidity and / or temperature values measured by the humidity and temperature sensors 18, 19. The computing unit is also configured to control the patient support 101 based on the pressure determined by the pressure gauge 8 and / or the sinking depth detected by the sinking sensor 9, similar to Figures 2A to 2C .

[0162] Figure 4A and 4B shows a schematic cross-sectional representation of a first embodiment of a patient support 101 with a macroscopically stretchable cover 15 according to Figure 2A and Figure 2B . Such a cover can also be used for the second embodiment in Figure 3 or the third embodiment of the patient support 101 in Figure 11 .

[0163] No gravity acts on the cover 15 in Figure 4A , such that the flexible structure schematically represented by the serrated pattern does not deform. The cover 15 is made of, for example, open-cell polyurethane foam such that it can be deformed under a small force while still allowing air to flow to the overlying tissue of the patient.

[0164] The flexible structure can be deformed parallel to the transfer surface even with a very small amount of force. The flexible structure consists of seams, folds, and / or deformable materials.

[0165] In Figure 4B , gravity 16 acts on the cover 15. The flexible structure 15 is deformed by the acting gravity 16 in the direction 17 parallel to the cover 15, but no strong tensile stress is generated in the cover 15. This prevents the "hammock effect" that may cause local damage to the overlying tissue of the patient due to the tension in the cover. Thus, the weight of the patient is substantially absorbed in a point-elastic manner by the fluid unit of the patient support located below the cover 15, such that the cover 15 adapts to the contour of the fluid unit due to the action of gravity.

[0166] Figure 5A and 5B show two embodiments of the fluid unit 3 with the sinking sensor 9 in cross-section. In Figure 5A and 5B , a current source is connected to the first conductor 94 and / or the second conductor 95. The sinking sensor 9 detects when these two conductors 94, 95 come into contact with each other and thereby close the circuit.

[0167] Alternatively, it can be detected whether the circuit is interrupted or whether the resistance value of the detected circuit changes.

[0168] Figure 5AAn embodiment of the fluid unit 3 shows that at the maximum sinking depth 91, the upper inner wall section 30 brings the first conductor 94 of the fluid unit 3 into contact with the second conductor 95. The second conductor 95 of the sinking sensor 9 is arranged on the side of the bottom of the fluid unit 3 facing the base 2, such that the acting gravity 16 triggers the sinking sensor 9.

[0169] Figure 5B An embodiment of the fluid unit 3 in shows that the sinking sensor 9 has two different sections 92 and 93 that are movable relative to each other. Only the outer section 92 of the sinking sensor 9 is held by the bracket 96. On the other hand, the intermediate section 93 can be deflected downward due to the weight 16 of the patient. Thus, the intermediate section 93 of the sinking sensor 9 has a supporting effect, such that the patient is supported even if the fluid unit 3 fails. In addition, the high elasticity upon contact prevents potentially damaging pressure effects on the ischial or coccygeal regions to be protected. The maximum sinking depth 91 of the fluid unit is significantly less than the overall width B of the fluid unit 3.

[0170] Figure 5B The first conductor 94 in is electrically connected to the intermediate section 93, and the second conductor 95 is electrically connected to the bottom of the fluid unit 3 extending parallel to the base 2. By deflecting the intermediate section 93 and contacting the bottom, the sinking sensor 9 in can thus be triggered Figure 5B the sinking sensor 9 in.

[0171] Figure 6 shows an oblique side view of a wheelchair 102 having an embodiment of a patient support 101 according to Figure 1 The patient support 101 has a plurality of fluid units 3 forming a seat area 1 on the base 2. The patient support 101 can be used as a detachable seat cushion for the wheelchair 102 or can be rigidly connected to the wheelchair 102.

[0172] Figure 7A shows a schematic representation of valve control of an embodiment of a patient support 101 according to Figures 2A to 2C The difference is that the patient support 101 has a separate pressure gauge 8 for each pressure zone 6 for measuring the pressure in the pressure zone 6. Each pressure zone 6 is formed by a fluid unit 3. However, alternatively, the pressure zones 6 can also be formed by a plurality of fluid units 3 that are fluidly connected to each other, such that the fluid units 3 can each be pressurized with compressed air at a uniform pressure (see Figure 11 ).

[0173] An ultrasonic pump 4 having an inlet valve 12 and an outlet valve 13 is arranged in a control area T of a patient support 101. The inlet valve 12 is connected to the diaphragm pump 4 such that the supply 71 of a plurality of area valves 7 can be pressurized with compressed air. The outlet valve 13 is also connected to the supply 71 of the area valves 7. Thus, each pressure zone 6 of the areas of the main support P and the auxiliary support S requires an area valve 7. Therefore, the inlet valve 12 and the outlet valve 13 can be used to pressurize with compressed air or to discharge compressed air from all the pressure zones 6. This means that each pressure zone 6 requires fewer valves 7, 12, 13. The inlet valve 12 and the outlet valve 13 are also optimized such that the low noise level at a distance of one meter during operation is less than 20 dB. For this purpose, the outlet valve 13 also has a silencer 131.

[0174] For better clarity, the plurality of area valves 7 are shown only for two different pressure zones 6. However, the dashed areas of the supply 71 indicate that the patient support 101 has additional pressure zones 6, each formed by a fluid unit 3. Alternatively, a plurality of fluid units may also form a pressure zone. All the valves 12, 13, 7 also have electric actuators 72, 132, 122 such that the valves 12, 13, 7 are individually opened / closed electronically by a control unit.

[0175] Furthermore, the valves 12, 13, 7 include a check valve assembly 14 as a safety measure, which is closed by a return spring 141 in the power-off state. The check valve assembly 14 can be energized and opened via the control unit. In this way, compressed air can be supplied through the inlet valve 12, or air can be discharged through the outlet valve 13.

[0176] Figure 7B Shows a schematic representation of the valve control of an embodiment of a patient support 101 according to Figure 3 of the valve control in Figure 7B is similar to Figure 7A but different from Figure 7A in that it also has a ventilation device 20. For a further description of the foregoing features, see Figure 7A .

[0177] The ventilation device 20 consists of a fluid supply 211, which is connected to the piezoelectric ultrasonic pump 4 via a ventilation valve 202 and alternatively also via a plurality of additional ventilation valves 202. The fluid supply 211 is divided on the side facing the fluid unit into a plurality of fluid supply channels 201 extending into a plurality of intermediate spaces 104 of the fluid unit 3. Thus, uniform ventilation of the gaps 104 of the patient support 101 can be achieved, such that skin moisture can be reduced and moisture accumulation can be avoided.

[0178] Figure 7BThe shape of the aeration valve 202 therein is substantially similar to that of the inlet valve 12, the outlet valve 13, and the zone valve 7, and it also has a check valve assembly 14 with a return spring 141 and an electric actuator 203. The control unit can control the electric actuator 203 to open the aeration valve 202 so that fluid (especially air) is fed into the clearance space 104 from the piezoelectric ultrasonic pump 4 through the fluid supply 211. Therefore, the ultrasonic pump 4 can be used both to apply fluid to the fluid unit 3 and to provide ventilation through the ventilation device 20.

[0179] Figure 8 A schematic representation of a user terminal device in the shape of a smartphone 27 is shown. The smartphone can be wirelessly connected via an application to the communication interface of the patient support according to Figures 2A to 3 so that it can send user input and read the status data of the patient support. In addition, the user can set a preferred operation mode of the patient support through user input (see Figures 2A to 2C ).

[0180] Figures 9A to 9C A first embodiment of a valve 25 that can be used as an inlet valve, an outlet valve, and / or a zone valve 12, 13, 7 (see FIG. 7) is shown. The valve 25 has an open state 251 that allows compressed air to flow through the valve. The valve 25 also has a blocking state 252 in which compressed air cannot flow through the valve 25. For safety reasons, the valve 25 is de-energized in the blocking state 252. By actuating the electronic actuator 132 to overcome the restoring force of the return spring 141, the blocking state 252 of the valve can be switched to the open state 251.

[0181] Figures 10A to 10C A second embodiment of a valve 26 that can be used as an inlet valve, an outlet valve, and / or a zone valve 12, 13, 7 (see FIG. 7) is shown. The valve 26 is a three-way valve and thus provides a first valve passage 261 for introducing compressed air and a second valve passage 262 for discharging compressed air from the pressure zone. On the other hand, a third valve passage 263 that can be fluidly connected to the first valve passage 261 and the second valve passage 262 supplies compressed air from the pump to the pressure zone or discharges it from the pressure zone to the outlet. In the de-energized state, the valve 26 can be closed by the spring 141, i.e., it can assume the blocking state 252. To discharge compressed air, the spring 141 can also be deflected by the electric actuator 132 so that the valve 26 assumes the open state 251 and compressed air can be discharged through the second valve passage 262.

[0182] Figure 11 A third embodiment of a patient support 101 in the shape of a seat cushion is shown. This third embodiment of the patient support 101 is related to Figure 1 and Figure 3The patient support 101 differs in that a plurality of fluid units 3 form different pressure zones 61, 62, 63, 64, 65 in the seating area 1. For ease of identification, the respective pressure zones are each marked with a different pattern.

[0183] The fluid units 3 of the pressure zones 61, 62, 63, 64, 65 are each fluidly connected to one another by pipelines such that they can be jointly supplied with compressed air of uniform pressure. In addition, each of the respective pressure zones 61, 62, 63, 64, 65 has only a common supply pipeline from the pump of the patient support 101 to one of the fluid units 3 of the pressure zones 61, 62, 63, 64, 65. Each of the pressure zones 61, 62, 63, 64, 65 has only one zone valve.

[0184] The fluid units 3 of two pressure zones 61, 63 are separated by the fluid units 3 of the other pressure zones 62, 64, 65 in a plan view. This arrangement allows, for example, for the fact that the seating surface of the patient is usually partially mirror-symmetrical without having to calibrate the pressure zones individually with respect to one another.

Claims

1. A patient support (101), preferably a seat cushion, comprising a support area (1) having a base (2), a plurality of fluid cells (3) which are arranged on the seat side of the base (2), a pump (4), and a control unit (5), Among them, one or more of the fluid cells (3) each define a pressure zone (6), and each pressure zone (6) is connected to the pump (4) by at least one zone valve (7), wherein each zone valve (7) can be actuated by the control unit (5), such that the pressure in each pressure zone (6) can be set by the control unit (5), characterized in that the patient support (101) comprises at least one pressure sensor (8) for measuring the pressure in at least one pressure zone (6), preferably at least one pressure sensor (8) for each pressure zone (6).

2. The patient support (101) according to claim 1, wherein, The patient support (101) comprises a sinking sensor (9), wherein the sinking sensor (9) is adapted to detect the sinking depth (91), in particular to detect whether a predefined sinking depth (91) is exceeded.

3. The patient support (101) according to claim 2, wherein, The sinking sensor (9) is configured to detect contact between an inner wall section (30) of at least one fluid cell (3) and another element, which is preferably an opposite inner wall section (31) of the fluid cell (3), the base (2) and / or the sinking sensor (9).

4. The patient support (101) according to one of claims 2 or 3, wherein, The sinking sensor (9) comprises two sections (92, 93) which can move relative to each other at least partially perpendicular to the support area (1), and / or the sinking sensor (9) is designed to be at least partially deformable in a direction perpendicular to the support area (1), and the sinking sensor (9) preferably triggers before reaching the maximum sinking depth (91).

5. The patient support (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, The patient support (101) is a seat cushion and is designed for a wheelchair (102), and in particular has a maximum extension of at most 65 cm, preferably at most 55 cm in plan view.

6. The patient stent (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, The patient support (101) has a thickness (D) perpendicular to the support area (1) in the range from 4 cm to 20 cm, in particular in the range from 4 cm to 15 cm or from 4 cm to 10 cm.

7. The patient support (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one pressure zone (6) has a different shape or surface area from another pressure zone (6), in particular in the plan view of the patient support (101).

8. The patient stent (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, The patient support (101) comprises an outlet valve (13) and an inlet valve (12), wherein the inlet valve (12) is fluidly connected to the pump (4), and the outlet valve (13) and the inlet valve (12) are fluidly connected to at least one zone valve (7), preferably at least two zone valves (7), particularly preferably all zone valves (7).

9. The patient stent (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one of the group of the inlet valve (12), the outlet valve (13) and the zone valve (7) is normally closed and preferably comprises a check valve assembly (14).

10. The patient stent (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, During operation, the pump (4) and / or the exhaust muffler (131) have a noise level of less than 30 dB, preferably less than 25 dB, and particularly preferably less than 20 dB at a distance of 1 m from the patient support (101).

11. The patient stent (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The pump (4) is a diaphragm pump or an ultrasonic pump.

12. The patient support (101) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising an elastic cover (15), wherein, When a force of the patient (11), in particular the gravity (16), acts on the cover (15), the cover (15) can adapt along the contour (32) of the fluid unit (3) without causing a significant force (17) parallel to the support area (1).

13. The patient support (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The patient support (101) includes at least one humidity sensor (18) and / or temperature sensor (19) for measuring the humidity and / or temperature on the seat side of the base (2).

14. The patient support (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, The patient support (101) includes a ventilation device (20) for supplying and / or removing fluid on the seat side of the base (2), wherein the ventilation device (20) can preferably be operated by the pump (4).

15. The patient stent (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, The control unit (5) of the patient support (101) or an additional computer device is designed to detect temporal pressure changes in at least one pressure zone (6) by at least one pressure sensor (8) or the sinking sensor (9) and assign them to an activity pattern.

16. The patient stent (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, The patient support (101) can be operated in at least one first operating mode (21) and a second operating mode (22), wherein the control unit (5) is designed to control the pressurization of the pressure zone (6) such that the first operating mode (21) has a first pressure ratio between at least two pressure zones (6), and the second operating mode (22) has a second pressure ratio different from the first pressure ratio between the two pressure zones (6).

17. The patient stent (101) according to claim 16, wherein, The control unit (5) is designed such that in the first or second operating mode (21, 22): (i) perform temporally repetitive pressurization and pressure release on at least one pressure zone (6), in particular a group of pressure zones (6), and / or (ii) detect the activity pattern of the patient (11), and the pressurization of the pressure zone (6) is adapted to this activity pattern, and / or (iii) perform the pressurization of the pressure zone (6) for stable positioning of the patient (11), and / or (iv) pressurize the fluid unit (3) to the maximum pressure.

18. The patient support (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, The base (2) does not have a fluid unit (3) in a certain area on the seat side, in particular in an area adjacent to the edge of the base (2), and the control unit (5) and / or the pump (4) are arranged in this area of the base (2).

19. The patient stent (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, The patient support (101) has a pressure port (24), and when an additional device is connected to the patient support (101) via the pressure port (24), the pump (4) can pressurize at least one of the additional devices through the pressure port. The patient stent (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least one fluid unit (3), preferably at least one fluid unit (3) for each pressure zone (6), is assigned an overpressure valve.

21. The patient support (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, The fluid unit (3) comprises or consists of plastic, in particular polyurethane, polychloroprene, poly(organo)siloxane, polyisoprene, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene or polyester.

22. The patient support (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The patient support (101) comprises a wireless communication interface for transmitting status data of the patient support (101) and / or receiving user input data, in particular for selecting the operating modes (21, 22) for operating the patient support (101).

23. The patient stent (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, The patient support (101) comprises a data memory and a computing unit, wherein, using the computing unit, at least one target pressure value of at least one pressure zone (6) can be calculated based on at least one measured value of the sinking sensor (9) and / or the pressure sensor (8), wherein the measured value and / or the target pressure value can be stored in the data memory, and the control unit (5) can set the pressure in at least one pressure zone (6) based on the target pressure value.

24. A wheelchair (102) comprising a patient support (101) according to any one of the preceding claims.

25. A method for automatic calibration of a patient support (101), preferably a patient support (101) according to claims 1 to 23, comprising the following steps: - Placing a patient (11) on the patient support (101) such that gravity (16) acts on the patient support (101); - Changing the pressure in at least one pressure zone (6) and determining at which pressure the sinking sensor (9) detects a seat-through; - Saving the determined pressure.

26. The method according to claim 25, wherein, When changing the pressure in at least one pressure zone (6), measuring the sinking depth (91) as a function of the pressure.

27. The method according to any one of claims 25 or 26, wherein, Based on the determined pressure of the pressure sensor (8) detected by the sinking sensor (9), determining at least one target pressure value in at least one pressure zone (6).

28. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein The sinking sensor (9) is arranged in the pressure zone (6), wherein, based on the determined pressure of the pressure sensor (8) detected by the sinking sensor (9), the pressure in the pressure zone (6) and at least one adjacent pressure zone (6) is adjusted.

Images