Inflatable mattress

Abstract

The present application provides an air bed mattress with air chambers capable of coping with many users. The air bed mattress has a main mattress supporting the body of a user and a shoulder mattress located below the main mattress, the shoulder mattress having a first air chamber located on the outer side in the left-right direction of the shoulder mattress, a second air chamber located on the inner side in the left-right direction than the first air chamber, and a third air chamber located on the inner side in the left-right direction than the second air chamber, the front end of the second air chamber being located on the rear side than the front end of the first air chamber, and the front end of the third air chamber being located on the rear side than the front end of the second air chamber.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an air mattress. Background Technology

[0002] An air mattress with an air chamber that can change the user's body position is known (Patent Document 1).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-046042. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] The air mattress described in Patent Document 1 often results in misalignment between the user's body and the air chamber due to differences in body size, which may prevent efficient repositioning. The technical problem this invention aims to solve is to provide an air mattress with air chambers capable of accommodating multiple users.

[0008] Technical solutions for solving technical problems

[0009] An embodiment provides an inflatable mattress comprising: a main mattress supporting a user's body; and a shoulder mattress located below the main mattress. The shoulder mattress has: a first air chamber located on the outer side of the shoulder mattress in a left-right direction; a second air chamber located on the inner side of the shoulder mattress in a left-right direction relative to the first air chamber; and a third air chamber located on the inner side of the shoulder mattress in a left-right direction relative to the second air chamber. The front end of the second air chamber is located rearward than the front end of the first air chamber, and the front end of the third air chamber is located rearward than the front end of the second air chamber.

[0010] Invention Effects

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an air mattress having an air chamber capable of accommodating a large number of users can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a side view of an electric bed unit equipped with an air mattress according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a block diagram representing the control system of the electric bed unit.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a block diagram representing the control system of an air mattress.

[0015] Figure 4This is an illustration of the air supply and ventilation system of a shoulder mattress.

[0016] Figure 5 It is an explanatory diagram showing the size, position, and dimensional relationship of the shoulder mattress.

[0017] Figure 6 It is in a state where the shoulder mattress is fully inflated from Figure 4 The cross-sectional view viewed in the direction of arrow A-A.

[0018] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing the tilt angle of the mattress for the shoulders.

[0019] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the body stability control processes performed by the mattress control unit.

[0020] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the position change control process performed by the mattress control unit.

[0021] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram showing the state when the body position change control process is executed.

[0022] Figure 11 This is a top view showing the air mattress according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Reference Figures 1 to 11 An air mattress according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a side view of an electric bed unit equipped with an air mattress according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a block diagram representing the control system of the electric bed unit.

[0026] Figure 1 The electric bed unit 10 shown is used, for example, in nursing homes, hospitals, and private residences. It can be raised or lowered electrically, and the height of the bed 20 can be adjusted electrically. Figure 1 The diagram of the electric bed unit 10 is simplified, omitting the drive mechanism used to raise or lower the backrest or knees, or to change the height of the bed 20. In this embodiment, the head side of the user H lying on the bed 20 is described as the front side, and the foot side as the back side. The right hand side of the user H in a supine position is described as the right side, and the left hand side as the left side. Furthermore, the electric bed unit 10 includes a bed 20 and an inflatable mattress 50 disposed on the bed 20.

[0027] The bed 20 has a base frame 21 mounted on a floor surface F, a main frame 22 located above the base frame 21, and a bottom 23 that can be tilted relative to the main frame 22. Two main frames 22 are separately arranged in the left-right direction (short side direction) of the bed 20 and extend in the front-back direction. The main frames 22 are supported on the base frame 21, for example, via a lifting mechanism 25. The main frames 22 can be moved vertically relative to the base frame 21 by a third drive device 33 described later.

[0028] The upper surface of the bottom 23 becomes the mounting surface of the mattress 52. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the bottom 23 supports the user H via the mattress 52. Furthermore, the bottom 23 has a back bottom 23a, a waist bottom 23b, a knee bottom 23c, and a leg bottom 23d.

[0029] The backrest base 23a supports the head and back of the user H lying on the bed 20. The backrest base 23a can be tilted back by the first drive mechanism 31, described later. Figure 1 The image shows the back support 23a in an upright position. The lumbar support 23b is located behind the back support 23a. The lumbar support 23b supports the lower back and hips of the user H lying on the bed 20.

[0030] The knee base 23c is located behind the waist base 23b. The knee base 23c supports the thighs of the user H lying on the bed 20. The leg base 23d is located behind the knee base 23c. The leg base 23d supports the lower legs of the user H lying on the bed 20. The knee base 23c and leg base 23d can be tilted up and down by the second drive device 32 described later. Figure 1 The image shows the flexed state of the knee base 23c and leg base 23d.

[0031] Below the bottom 23 are a backrest mechanism for raising and lowering the backrest bottom 23a, a knee raising mechanism for raising and lowering the knee bottom 23c and leg bottom 23d, a lifting mechanism 25 for raising and lowering the main frame 22 and the bottom 23, and a bed control unit 39 for controlling the movement of each mechanism.

[0032] The backrest mechanism, knee raising mechanism, and lifting mechanism 25 are operated, for example, by a drive device consisting of an electric cylinder. The backrest mechanism, through the action of the first drive device 31, causes the backrest base 23a to tilt up. The knee raising mechanism, through the action of the second drive device 32, causes the knee base 23c and leg base 23d to flex into a bend. The lifting mechanism 25, through the action of the third drive device 33, raises and lowers the main frame 22 and the base 23. This adjusts the height of the bed 20 from the floor surface F to the base 23.

[0033] The bed control unit 35 serves as a remote control for operating the first drive unit 31, the second drive unit 32, and the third drive unit 33. The bed control unit 35 is connected to the bed control unit 39 via wired or wireless means. By operating the bed control unit 35, the user H or caregiver can change the raising and lowering of the backrest 23a, knee 23c, and leg 23d, as well as the height of the bed 20 from the floor.

[0034] The bed control unit 35 may include, for example, a backrest lift button 35a, a backrest lower button 35b, a leg lower button 35c, a leg lift button 35d, an raise button 35e, and a lower button 35f. Alternatively, each control button may be a touch panel. Furthermore, the bed control unit 35 may also include a display unit showing the status of the bed 20.

[0035] The backrest raise button 35a and the backrest lower button 35b are used to actuate the first drive device 31. The backrest raise button 35a is operated to extend the lever of the first drive device 31 to raise the backrest bottom 23a. The backrest lower button 35b is operated to retract the lever of the first drive device 31 to lower the backrest bottom 23a.

[0036] The leg raise button 35c and leg lower button 35d are used to actuate the second drive device 32. The leg raise button 35c is operated by extending the lever of the second drive device 32 to raise the knee base 23c and leg base 23d. The leg lower button 35d is operated by retracting the lever of the second drive device 32 to lower the knee base 23c and leg base 23d.

[0037] The up button 35e and the down button 35f are used to actuate the third drive device 33. The up button 35e is operated to extend the lever of the third drive device 33 to raise the height of the bottom 23. The down button 35f is operated to retract the lever of the third drive device 33 to lower the height of the bottom 23.

[0038] Angle sensor 37 detects the tilt angle (back angle) of the backrest bottom 23a relative to the horizontal direction. For example, angle sensor 37 detects the tilt angle of the backrest bottom 23a relative to the waist bottom 23b. Angle sensor 37 sends the detected result to the bed control unit 39.

[0039] The bed control unit 39 is located, for example, below the bottom 23. The bed control unit 39 is connected to the bed operation unit 35. Based on the operation of the bed operation unit 35, the bed control unit 39 controls the operation of the first drive unit 31 to the third drive unit 33.

[0040] The bed control unit 39 has a storage unit 39a. The storage unit 39a stores programs for operating the first drive unit 31 to the third drive unit 33. The bed control unit 39 operates the first drive unit 31 to the third drive unit 33 based on command signals sent from the bed operation unit 35.

[0041] Figure 3 This is a block diagram representing the control system of an air mattress.

[0042] Figure 4 This is an illustration of the air supply and ventilation system of a shoulder mattress.

[0043] The air mattress 50 includes a mattress 52 supporting the user H, a mattress control unit 83, and a mattress operation unit 85. The mattress 52 includes a main mattress 60 supporting the user H's body and a shoulder mattress 70 located below the main mattress 60.

[0044] The main mattress 60 has multiple air chambers 60a arranged in the front-to-back direction. By controlling the internal pressure of the multiple air chambers 60a, the main mattress 60 can be set to a mattress 52 with the firmness preferred by the user H. In addition, by controlling the internal pressure of each air chamber 60a, the main mattress 60 can, for example, distribute the body pressure of the user H.

[0045] The shoulder mattress 70 is located below the user H's shoulders and lower back when the user H is lying supine on the main mattress 60. The shoulder mattress 70 expands or contracts, for example, when the user lies down or stands up from the backrest 23a of the bed 20. Thus, the shoulder mattress 70 adjusts the position of the user H on the main mattress 60 or changes the user H's body position.

[0046] The shoulder mattress 70 has a left shoulder air chamber 71 located on the left side and a right shoulder air chamber 72 located on the right side. The left shoulder air chamber 71 is located below the upper left side of the user H in a supine position. The right shoulder air chamber 72 is located below the upper right side of the user H in a supine position. The left shoulder air chamber 71 has a first air chamber 71a, a second air chamber 71b, and a third air chamber 71c. The right shoulder air chamber 72 has a first air chamber 72a, a second air chamber 72b, and a third air chamber 72c.

[0047] The shoulder mattress 70 is positioned on the backrest 23a with the mattress 52 resting on the bottom 23 of the bed 20. (Example) Figure 4 As shown, the rear end of the shoulder mattress 70, for example, extends from the rear end of the main mattress 60 towards the front (head side) at dimension L1. Dimension L1 is, for example, 1000mm or more and 1250mm or less.

[0048] The rear end of the shoulder mattress 70 is located, for example, from the greater trochanter to the lumbar region of the user H in a supine position. Furthermore, in this example, the rear end of the shoulder mattress 70 is in the same position in the first air chambers 71a, 72a to the third air chambers 71c, 72c. However, the rear end of the shoulder mattress 70 may differ in the anterior-posterior direction in the first air chambers 71a, 72a to the third air chambers 71c, 72c. Regarding the shoulder mattress 70, the air supply systems in the left shoulder air chamber 71 and the right shoulder air chamber 72 are different systems. That is, the internal pressure of the left shoulder air chamber 71 and the internal pressure of the right shoulder air chamber 72 are controlled independently.

[0049] Next, refer to Figures 5-7 The left shoulder air chamber 71 and the right shoulder air chamber 72 will be described. The left shoulder air chamber 71 and the right shoulder air chamber 72 are reversed in shape in the left-right direction, and have the same structure and size. In the following description, the left shoulder air chamber 71 will be the focus.

[0050] Figure 5 It is an explanatory diagram showing the size, position, and dimensional relationship of the shoulder mattress.

[0051] Figure 6 It is in a state where the shoulder mattress is fully inflated from Figure 4 The cross-sectional view viewed in the direction of arrow A-A.

[0052] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing the tilt angle of the mattress for the shoulders.

[0053] The left shoulder air chamber 71 has a first air chamber 71a located on the outer side in the left-right direction (the direction of the short side of the mattress 52), a second air chamber 71b located on the inner side in the left-right direction of the first air chamber 71a, and a third air chamber 71c located on the inner side in the left-right direction of the second air chamber 71b. The first air chamber 71a is connected to the pump unit 80 via a pipe. The interior of the first air chamber 71a communicates with the interior of the second air chamber 71b. The interior of the second air chamber 71b communicates with the interior of the third air chamber 71c.

[0054] Here, for example, if the front end of the shoulder mattress 70 is too close to the user H's head, the user H's head will be pressed down, which may prevent the user H from effectively changing position. Therefore, the shoulder mattress 70 is not affected by the user H's physique and can efficiently lift the upper body from the center of gravity of the user H's shoulder blades to the waist area.

[0055] like Figure 5As shown, the lengths of the first air chamber 71a to the third air chamber 71c in the front-to-back direction are different. The front end 71b1 of the second air chamber 71b is located further back than the front end 71a1 of the first air chamber 71a. Furthermore, the front end 71c1 of the third air chamber 71c is located further back than the front end 71b1 of the second air chamber 71b. That is, the front ends 71a1 to 71c1 of the left shoulder air chamber 71 are formed in a stepped shape.

[0056] Specifically, the lengths L2 to L4 of the first air chamber 71a to the third air chamber 71c are designed to accommodate the heights of many users H. For example, the shoulder mattress 70 can accommodate users H with a height of 145cm or more but less than 185cm.

[0057] The first air chamber 71a and the second air chamber 71b are adapted, for example, to a tall user H. In this case, the front end 71b1 of the second air chamber 71b is located, for example, between the shoulder and ear of the tall user H who is in a supine position. The first air chamber 71a raises the arm of the tall user H.

[0058] On the other hand, the second air chamber 71b and the third air chamber 71c are, for example, designed for a short user H. In this case, the front end 71c1 of the third air chamber 71c is located, for example, between the shoulder and ear of the short user H in a supine position. The second air chamber 71b lifts the arm of the short user H.

[0059] The length L2 of the first air chamber 71a is, for example, 540 mm or more and 600 mm or less. The length L3 of the second air chamber 71b is, for example, 390 mm or more and 400 mm or less. The length L4 of the third air chamber 71c is, for example, 290 mm or more and 300 mm or less.

[0060] The shoulder mattress 70 is formed by three air chambers 71a to 71c, each consisting of three spheres. The outer diameter D1 of the first air chamber 71a is larger than the outer diameter D2 of the second air chamber 71b and the outer diameter D3 of the third air chamber 71c. The outer diameter D2 of the second air chamber 71b is larger than the outer diameter D3 of the third air chamber 71c. That is, the outer diameter D2 of the second air chamber 71b is smaller than the outer diameter D1 of the first air chamber 71a and larger than the outer diameter D3 of the third air chamber 71c (D1 > D2 > D3).

[0061] The outer diameters D1 to D3 of the first air chamber 71a to the third air chamber 71c are, for example, set within the range of 30 mm to 100 mm. The outer diameter D1 of the first air chamber 71a is, for example, 90 mm. The outer diameter D2 of the second air chamber 71b is, for example, 55 mm. The outer diameter D3 of the third air chamber 71c is, for example, 33 mm.

[0062] Next, refer to Figure 5The right shoulder air chamber 72 shown is described with respect to the center positions a to c at the front end of the shoulder mattress 70. The center position b of the outer diameter D2 in the front end 72b1 of the second air chamber 72b lies on line X-X, which connects the center position a of the outer diameter D1 in the front end 72a1 of the first air chamber 72a and the center position c of the outer diameter D3 in the front end 72c1 of the third air chamber 72c. Furthermore, the center position b of the second air chamber 72b may also be offset forward by no more than 7 cm and backward by no more than 7 cm from line X-X. Additionally, the angle α formed by line X-X and the straight line O-O extending in the forward-backward direction is, for example, a value of 24 degrees or more and 34 degrees or less.

[0063] Next, refer to Figure 6 , Figure 7 The inclined surface formed when the shoulder mattress is fully expanded (70%) is explained.

[0064] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, the lower end of the shoulder mattress 70 abuts against the backrest bottom 23a. That is, the lower ends of the first air chamber 71a to the third air chamber 71c are at the same position in the vertical direction. Thus, when the shoulder mattress 70 is fully inflated, a first imaginary line 75a and a second imaginary line 75b are formed by inclined surfaces extending from the outer side to the inner side in the left-right direction (short side direction). The first imaginary line 75a becomes the inclined surface formed by the left shoulder air chamber 71. The second imaginary line 75b becomes the inclined surface formed by the right shoulder air chamber 72.

[0065] The first imaginary line 75a becomes the tangent to the fully expanded first air chamber 71a to the third air chamber 71c. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the angle β formed by the first imaginary line 75a at the lower end of the left shoulder air chamber 71 (shoulder mattress 70) and the horizontal line Y-Y extending in the horizontal direction is a value of 20 degrees or more and 30 degrees or less.

[0066] like Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, regarding the shoulder mattress 70, the left shoulder air chamber 71 and the right shoulder air chamber 72 are separately arranged in the left-right direction. The left-right dimension L5 between the left shoulder air chamber 71 and the right shoulder air chamber 72 is, for example, a value corresponding to the width of the anterior armpit of a small user H. The dimension L5 between the third air chamber 71c of the left shoulder air chamber 71 and the third air chamber 72c of the right shoulder air chamber 72 is, for example, a value of 200mm or more and 300mm or less.

[0067] Here, for example, if the dimensions of the left shoulder air chamber 71 and the right shoulder air chamber 72 are similar in the left-right direction, the main mattress 60 deforms into a V-shape when the shoulder mattress 70 is fully inflated. In such a case, the user H is compressed and may become restricted.

[0068] Therefore, as Figure 6 As shown, with regard to the shoulder mattress 70, the first imaginary line 75a formed by the inclined surface formed when the left shoulder air chamber 71 is fully expanded and the second imaginary line 75b formed by the inclined surface formed when the right shoulder air chamber 72 is fully expanded do not intersect.

[0069] In other words, regarding the shoulder mattress 70, the junction of the first imaginary line 75a, the second imaginary line 75b formed by the inclined surfaces formed when the first air chambers 71a, 72a to the third air chambers 71c, 72c are fully expanded, and the horizontal line Y-Y extending horizontally at the lower end of the shoulder mattress 70, i.e., the inclined starting points 76a, 76b, does not cross the center of the main mattress 60 in the left-right direction (dotted line O-O).

[0070] Therefore, the shoulder mattress 70 can bend the main mattress 60 into a U-shape. As a result, the shoulder mattress 70 can reduce the feeling of constraint for the user H and can effectively facilitate changes in the user H's posture.

[0071] The pump unit 80 is, for example, located at the rear end of the main mattress 60. The pump unit 80 controls the firmness of the main mattress 60 and the shoulder mattress 70 by supplying and venting air to the air chambers 60a of the main mattress 60, the first air chambers 71a to 71c of the left shoulder air chamber 71, and the first air chambers 72a to 72c of the right shoulder air chamber 72. The pump unit 80 includes a pump 81, a solenoid valve unit 82, and a mattress control unit 83.

[0072] Pump 81 supplies air to the main mattress 60 and the shoulder mattress 70. Specifically, pump 81 supplies air to each air chamber 60a of the main mattress 60 and the left shoulder air chamber 71 and right shoulder air chamber 72 of the shoulder mattress 70 via solenoid valve unit 82. In addition, pump 81 draws out (force-exhausts) air from the main mattress 60 and the shoulder mattress 70. Pump 81 is controlled by mattress control unit 83.

[0073] The solenoid valve unit 82 is located between the main mattress 60, the shoulder mattress 70, and the pump 81. The solenoid valve unit 82 has multiple solenoid valves corresponding to the air chambers 60a and the first air chambers 71a and 72a. The solenoid valve unit 82 has an exhaust valve that discharges air from each air chamber 60a and from the first air chambers 71a and 72a to the third air chambers 71c and 72c to the outside.

[0074] When the solenoid valve is open and the pump 81 is running, air is supplied from the pump 81 to the air chamber 60a or the first air chambers 71a, 72a to the third air chambers 71c, 72c. Conversely, when the pump 81 stops and the solenoid valve and exhaust valve are open, air is discharged from each air chamber 60a and the first air chambers 71a, 72a to the third air chambers 71c, 72c. Conversely, when the pump 81 reverses its rotation and the solenoid valve is open, air is drawn out from the air chamber 60a or the first air chambers 71a, 72a to the third air chambers 71c, 72c. The opening and closing of each solenoid valve and exhaust valve is controlled by the mattress control unit 83.

[0075] The mattress control unit 83 controls the firmness of the main mattress 60 by changing the internal pressure of the air chamber 60a. The mattress control unit 83 has a storage unit 83a that stores a control program for controlling the internal pressure of the air chamber 60a.

[0076] When the backrest 23a of the bed 20 is raised, the user H's posture becomes unstable. Therefore, the air mattress 50 includes a shoulder mattress 70 that stabilizes the user H's body when the backrest 23a is raised.

[0077] When the backrest 23a is tilted up, the mattress control unit 83 performs body stabilization control processing (body stabilization mode) to stabilize the user H's body. Additionally, when the backrest 23a is upright, the mattress control unit 83 performs body position change control processing (body position change mode) to change the user H's body position.

[0078] In body stability control processing and posture change control processing, air is supplied or vented from the shoulder mattress 70. The storage unit 83a stores control programs for performing body stability control processing and posture change control processing. The mattress control unit 83 supplies air to the main mattress 60 and the shoulder mattress 70 by controlling the operation of the pump 81 and the action of the solenoid valve unit 82.

[0079] The mattress control unit 83 is connected to the mattress operation unit 85 (described later) and controls the operation of the pump 81 and the opening and closing of the solenoid valve unit 82 based on command signals from the mattress operation unit 85. The storage unit 83a stores, for example, a control program based on command signals from the mattress operation unit 85.

[0080] The mattress control unit 83 acquires the detection value from the air pressure sensor 84 installed on the pipeline connecting the pump 81 and the solenoid valve unit 82. The air pressure sensor 84 detects the internal pressure of the air chamber 60a of the main mattress 60, the left shoulder air chamber 71, and the right shoulder air chamber 72 by detecting the internal pressure of the pipeline. Based on the detection value of the air pressure sensor 84, the mattress control unit 83 controls the operation of the pump 81 and the opening and closing of each solenoid valve in the solenoid valve unit 82.

[0081] Furthermore, in this example, the bed control unit 39 and the mattress control unit 83 are described as different control units, but this is not a limitation; the bed control unit 39 and the mattress control unit 83 may also be a single control unit.

[0082] The mattress control unit 85 serves as a remote control for changing the internal pressure of the main mattress 60 and the shoulder mattress 70. The mattress control unit 85 is connected to the mattress control unit 83 via wired or wireless connection. The user H or caregiver can change the internal pressure (firmness) of the main mattress 60 and the shoulder mattress 70 by operating the mattress control unit 85.

[0083] The mattress control unit 85 includes a body stability button 85a for operating the mattress control unit 83 in body stability mode and a position change button 85b for operating the mattress control unit 83 in position change mode. Each control button may also be a touch panel or the like. Additionally, the mattress control unit 85 may also include a display unit showing the status of the main mattress 60 and the shoulder mattress 70.

[0084] An angle sensor 86 is mounted on the main mattress 60. The angle sensor 86 detects the back angle of the main mattress 60 relative to the horizontal direction. Specifically, the angle sensor 86 detects the tilt angle of the portion of the mattress with the shoulder rest 70 relative to the horizontal direction of the main mattress 60. The detection value of the angle sensor 86 is sent to the mattress control unit 83. The angle sensor 86 is configured as needed.

[0085] Next, the body stability control process performed when the body stability button 85a of the mattress operation unit 85 is operated will be explained.

[0086] When the back is raised at the backrest 23a of the bed 20, the user H's posture is unstable. Therefore, when the backrest 23a of the air mattress 50 is raised, it can perform a body stability mode that stabilizes the user H's body.

[0087] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the body stability control processes performed by the mattress control unit.

[0088] Figure 8 The body stability control program shown is stored, for example, in the storage unit 83a. The body stability control program is repeatedly executed at a predetermined cycle, for example, when the body stability button 85a of the mattress operation unit 85 is turned ON (activated) to perform the body stability mode. Furthermore, in Figure 8 In this context, "S" represents each step.

[0089] In S1, the back angle of the main mattress 60 is acquired. That is, the mattress control unit 83 acquires the back angle of the main mattress 60 detected by the angle sensor 86. The main mattress 60 is raised by the backrest bottom 23a of the bed 20, and the back angle increases. Alternatively, the mattress control unit 83 can also be changed to the angle sensor 86 of the air mattress 50, acquiring the tilt angle of the backrest bottom 23a from the angle sensor 37 of the bed 20.

[0090] In S2, it is determined whether the backrest angle is above or below an angle threshold. This angle threshold is set to a value between 20 degrees and 35 degrees (for example, 30 degrees) and stored in the storage unit 83a. That is, the mattress control unit 83 determines whether the backrest bottom 23a of the bed 20 is raised at or above a predetermined angle.

[0091] Then, if S2 is "yes" (i.e., the back angle is determined to be above the angle threshold), proceed to S3. On the other hand, if S2 is "no" (i.e., the back angle is determined to be less than the angle threshold), proceed to S6.

[0092] In S3, air supply to the shoulder mattress begins. That is, the mattress control unit 83 activates the pump 81 and opens the solenoid valve unit 82 to begin supplying air to the left shoulder air chamber 71 and the right shoulder air chamber 72.

[0093] In step S4 below, it is determined whether the internal pressure of the shoulder mattress 70 is above a pressure threshold. That is, the mattress control unit 83 obtains the detection value from the air pressure sensor 84. The pressure threshold is set, for example, to the pressure when the shoulder mattress 70 (left shoulder air chamber 71 and right shoulder air chamber 72) is fully inflated, and is stored in the storage unit 83a.

[0094] Then, if S4 is "yes", meaning it is determined that the internal pressure of the shoulder mattress 70 is above the pressure threshold, proceed to S5. On the other hand, if S4 is "no", meaning it is determined that the internal pressure of the shoulder mattress 70 is below the pressure threshold, continue to supply air to the shoulder mattress 70 and monitor the internal pressure of the shoulder mattress 70.

[0095] In step S5, the air supply to the shoulder mattress is stopped. That is, the mattress control unit 83 executes the operation stop of the pump 81 and the closing action of the solenoid valve unit 82, stopping the air supply to the left shoulder air chamber 71 and the right shoulder air chamber 72, and the process ends.

[0096] Thus, when the back angle of the main mattress 60 exceeds a certain angle threshold, the mattress control unit 83 initiates air supply to the shoulder mattress 70. Therefore, as... Figure 6As shown, the main mattress 60 is deformed into a U-shape with a central depression in the left-right direction. Therefore, if the user H shifts position in the left-right direction, the user H can move towards the central part in the left-right direction. In addition, the outer sides of the main mattress 60 in the left-right direction are raised. As a result, the user H is in a state of being enveloped by the main mattress 60 in the left-right direction, thus stabilizing the body.

[0097] In S6, it is determined whether the internal pressure of the shoulder mattress is greater than 0. That is, when the back angle of the main mattress 60 is less than the angle threshold, the mattress control unit 83 determines whether the left shoulder air chamber 71 and the right shoulder air chamber 72 are inflated.

[0098] Then, if S6 is "Yes", meaning the internal pressure of the shoulder mattress is determined to be greater than 0, proceed to S7. On the other hand, if the internal pressure of the shoulder mattress is determined to be 0, the process ends.

[0099] In step S7, the air release of the shoulder mattress begins. That is, the mattress control unit 83 reverses the operation of the pump 81, forcibly releasing the air from the left shoulder air chamber 71 and the right shoulder air chamber 72, and then stops. As a result, the shoulder mattress 70 is reduced in size while the main mattress 60 is in a horizontal position.

[0100] Next, the position change control process executed when operating the position change button 85b of the mattress operation unit 85 will be explained.

[0101] When the user H's backrest 23a is raised on the bed 20, it promotes a rounded back posture, which may lead to bedsores. Therefore, the air mattress 50 can perform a positional change mode to change the user H's body position when the backrest 23a is raised.

[0102] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the position change control process performed by the mattress control unit.

[0103] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram showing the state when the body position change control process is executed.

[0104] Figure 9 The body position change control program shown is stored, for example, in storage unit 83a. The body position change mode is executed repeatedly at a predetermined cycle, for example, when the back angle of the main mattress 60 is above an angle threshold and the body position change button 85b of the mattress operation unit 85 is turned on. Furthermore, the body position change mode ends, for example, when the back angle of the main mattress 60 is below the angle threshold, or when the body position change button 85b of the mattress operation unit 85 is turned off. Additionally, in Figure 9 In this context, "S" represents each step.

[0105] In S11, it is determined whether a body position change mode command signal has been received. That is, when the back angle of the main mattress 60 is above the angle threshold and the body stability mode is executed, the mattress control unit 83 monitors whether the body position change button 85b of the mattress operation unit 85 has been ON (activated).

[0106] Then, if S11 is "Yes" and it is determined that a body position change mode command signal has been received, proceed to S12. On the other hand, if S11 is "No" and it is determined that no body position change mode command signal has been received, end.

[0107] In step S12, the right shoulder air chamber is vented to the specified internal pressure. Specifically, the mattress control unit 83 opens the vent valve of the solenoid valve unit 82. As a result, the air in the right shoulder air chamber 72 is naturally vented using the user H's weight. The mattress control unit 83 then reduces the pressure in the right shoulder air chamber 72 until the pressure sensor 84 detects the specified internal pressure. Additionally, the mattress control unit 83 measures the elapsed time from when the right shoulder air chamber 72 is vented to the specified internal pressure.

[0108] Therefore, as Figure 10 As shown, the left shoulder air chamber 71 remains fully expanded, while the right shoulder air chamber 72 is reduced in size compared to the left shoulder air chamber 71. As a result, the user H's right shoulder lowers, towards... Figure 10 The arrows in the diagram indicate changes in body position.

[0109] In step S13 below, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. That is, the mattress control unit 83 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since step S12 was executed. This predetermined time is set to be more than 10 minutes and less than 20 minutes (for example, 15 minutes) and stored in the storage unit 83a. During the period until the predetermined time has elapsed, the left shoulder air chamber 71 is maintained in full expansion, and the right shoulder air chamber 72 is maintained in a deflating state. Then, if S13 is "yes", that is, it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, step S14 is executed. On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the elapsed time is monitored.

[0110] In step S14, the left shoulder air chamber is vented to a specified internal pressure. Specifically, the mattress control unit 83 opens the vent valve of the solenoid valve unit 82, venting the left shoulder air chamber 71 to the same reduced pressure as the right shoulder air chamber 72. As a result, the user H's left shoulder lowers, moving towards the... Figure 10 The body position is changed to the opposite side of the arrow direction. In addition, the mattress control unit 83 measures the elapsed time from when the left shoulder air chamber 71 is vented to the specified internal pressure.

[0111] In step S15 below, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. In S15, the same control process as in S13 is performed. The left shoulder air chamber 71 and right shoulder air chamber 72 remain in a reduced state until the predetermined time has elapsed. Then, if S15 indicates "yes," meaning the predetermined time has elapsed, proceed to S16. On the other hand, if the predetermined time has not elapsed, the elapsed time is monitored.

[0112] In S16, air is supplied to the right shoulder air chamber to the pressure threshold. That is, the mattress control unit 83 fully inflates the right shoulder air chamber 72 by operating the pump 81 and opening the solenoid valve unit 82. As a result, the user H's right shoulder is raised, and the body position changes. In addition, the mattress control unit 83 measures the elapsed time from when air is supplied to the right shoulder air chamber 72 to the pressure threshold. Furthermore, while the right shoulder air chamber 72 is fully inflated in S16, it is also possible not to fully inflate it, but to inflate it to a predetermined internal pressure greater than the predetermined internal pressure of the right shoulder air chamber 72 in S12.

[0113] In S17 below, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. In S17, the same control process as in S13 is performed. During the period until the predetermined time has elapsed, the left shoulder air chamber 71 is maintained in a reduced state, and the right shoulder air chamber 72 is maintained in a fully expanded state. Then, if S17 is "yes," meaning it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, proceed to S18. On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the elapsed time is monitored.

[0114] In S18, the right shoulder air chamber is vented to a predetermined internal pressure. That is, the mattress control unit 83 opens the vent valve of the solenoid valve unit 82, venting the right shoulder air chamber 72 to the same reduced state as the left shoulder air chamber 71. As a result, the user H's right shoulder is lowered, resulting in the same body position (posture) as in S14. In addition, the mattress control unit 83 measures the elapsed time from when the right shoulder air chamber 72 is vented to the predetermined internal pressure.

[0115] In S19 below, it is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed. In S19, the same control process as in S13 is performed. The left shoulder air chamber 71 and right shoulder air chamber 72 are maintained in a reduced state until the predetermined time has elapsed. Then, if S19 is "yes", that is, it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, proceed to S20. On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the elapsed time is monitored.

[0116] In step S20, air is supplied to the left shoulder air chamber to the pressure threshold. Specifically, the mattress control unit 83, by operating the pump 81 and opening the solenoid valve unit 82, fully inflates the left shoulder air chamber 71. As a result, the user H's left shoulder is raised, towards... Figure 10The arrow in the diagram indicates a change in body position. Additionally, the mattress control unit 83 measures the elapsed time from when air is supplied to the left shoulder air chamber 71 to the pressure threshold. Furthermore, in S20, the left shoulder air chamber 71 is fully inflated, but it can also be inflated to a predetermined internal pressure greater than the predetermined internal pressure of the left shoulder air chamber 71 in S14, without full inflating it. Then, after performing S20, the process returns to S13 to monitor the predetermined time following the execution of S20.

[0117] In this way, upon receiving a posture change mode command signal, the mattress control unit 83 inflates one of the left shoulder air chambers 71 and the right shoulder air chamber 72 with a first internal pressure, and inflates the other air chamber with a second internal pressure lower than the first internal pressure. The first internal pressure is, for example, set to a pressure threshold at which the left shoulder air chamber 71 and the right shoulder air chamber 72 are fully inflated. The second internal pressure is, for example, set to a predetermined internal pressure lower than the fully inflated and deflated state. Thus, when the backrest bottom 23a of the bed 20 is raised, it can suppress the rounded back posture of the user H or the development of bedsores in the user H.

[0118] Next, refer to Figure 11 The air mattress 90 according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In addition to the shoulder mattress 70, the air mattress 90 of the second embodiment also includes a mattress 91 having a hip mattress 92 and a head mattress 94.

[0119] Figure 11 This is a top view showing the air mattress according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] The hip mattress 92 is located behind the shoulder mattress 70 and below the main mattress 60. For example, with the mattress 91 resting on the bottom 23 of the bed 20, the hip mattress 92 lies from the lower back 23b to the knee 23c or leg 23d. The hip mattress 92 has a left hip air chamber 92a on the left side and a right hip air chamber 92b on the right side.

[0121] like Figure 11 As shown, the left buttock air chamber 92a and the right buttock air chamber 92b are formed in a curved shape that protrudes outward in the left and right directions. When the left buttock air chamber 92a and the right buttock air chamber 92b expand, a space is formed between the left buttock air chamber 92a and the right buttock air chamber 92b. The user H's buttocks are located within this space.

[0122] The hip mattress 92 is shaped to wrap around the user H's hips, and when the backrest base 23a is raised, it alleviates the increase in body pressure around the hips, which increases the risk of bedsores. Furthermore, when the backrest base 23a is raised, the hip mattress 92 prevents the user H from shifting towards the feet, allowing the user H to adopt a stable posture. Moreover, the hip mattress 92 is connected to the pump unit 80 via tubing, and its internal pressure is controlled by the mattress control unit 83.

[0123] The head mattress 94 is located forward of the shoulder mattress 70 and below the main mattress 60. The head mattress 94 is positioned on the backrest 23a with the mattress 91 resting on the bottom 23 of the bed 20. Furthermore, the head mattress 94 has a back air chamber 94a located at the front of the main mattress 60 and a chest air chamber 94b located behind the back air chamber 94a.

[0124] The occipital air chamber 94a is located below the back of the user H's head when the user H is in a supine position. The occipital air chamber 94a, upon expansion, causes the user H's head to flex forward. The chest air chamber 94b is located below the chest of the user H when the user H is in a supine position. The chest air chamber 94b, upon expansion, pushes the user H's chest upward.

[0125] The head mattress 94 is, for example, shaped like an air chamber extending from the user H's chest to the back of their head, with the angle increasing by approximately 20 degrees from the inclination angle of the bed 20's backrest 23a. This allows the head mattress 94 to easily assume the user H's swallowing posture as required in situations such as feeding and care. Furthermore, the head mattress 94 is connected to the pump unit 80 via tubing, and its internal pressure is controlled by the mattress control unit 83.

[0126] Next, the actions of the shoulder mattress 70, hip mattress 92, and head mattress 94 when the backrest 23a of the bed 20 is raised or lowered will be described. The action control program for the shoulder mattress 70, hip mattress 92, and head mattress 94 is stored in the storage unit 83a.

[0127] The mattress control unit 83 acquires the back angle of the main mattress 60 detected by the angle sensor 86. The back angle of the main mattress 60 increases by raising the back bottom 23a of the bed 20. Alternatively, the mattress control unit 83 can also be used as the angle sensor 86 of the air mattress 50 to acquire the tilt angle of the back bottom 23a from the angle sensor 37 of the bed 20.

[0128] When the angle sensor 86 detects an angle threshold value, the mattress control unit 83 starts the pump 81 and opens the solenoid valve unit 82 to supply air to the buttock mattress 92. This angle threshold value is set to a value between 20 degrees and 35 degrees (for example, 30 degrees) and is stored in the storage unit 83a.

[0129] The mattress control unit 83 continuously supplies air to the hip mattress 92 until the pressure sensor 84 detects a predetermined internal pressure. This predetermined internal pressure is, for example, the internal pressure when the hip mattress 92 is fully inflated.

[0130] Therefore, the hip mattress 92 can alleviate the increase in body pressure around the hips, which increases the risk of bedsores, and inhibit the user H from shifting to the foot side, allowing the user H to adopt a stable posture.

[0131] Next, when the hip mattress 92 inflates to a predetermined internal pressure, the mattress control unit 83 switches the solenoid valve unit 82 to begin supplying air to the head mattress 94. The mattress control unit 83 continues to supply air to the head mattress 94 until the pressure sensor 84 detects the predetermined internal pressure. This predetermined internal pressure is, for example, the internal pressure when the head mattress 94 is fully inflated. Thus, the head mattress 94 can easily assume the swallowing posture required by the user H in situations such as mealtime care.

[0132] Next, once the head mattress 94 has inflated to a predetermined internal pressure, the mattress control unit 83 switches the solenoid valve unit 82 to begin supplying air to the shoulder mattress 70. The mattress control unit 83 continues to supply air to the shoulder mattress 70 until the pressure sensor 84 detects the predetermined internal pressure. This predetermined internal pressure is, for example, the internal pressure (pressure threshold) when the shoulder mattress 70 is fully inflated.

[0133] When the backrest 23a is raised, the user H's center of gravity becomes higher, making the user H's posture unstable. The shoulder mattress 70 stabilizes the user H's posture by raising the outer side of the main mattress 60 in the short direction.

[0134] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, an example is given where the hip mattress 92, head mattress 94, and shoulder mattress 70 are inflated sequentially. However, the invention is not limited to this; for example, air can be supplied to two or more mattresses simultaneously, or even to three mattresses simultaneously.

[0135] The mattress control unit 83 maintains the full inflation of the hip mattress 92, head mattress 94, and shoulder mattress 70 until the detection value of the angle sensor 86 falls below the angle threshold. Furthermore, in this case, the mattress control unit 83 can also perform [operations] when the body position change button 85b is ON. Figure 9 The body position transformation pattern is shown.

[0136] When the angle sensor 86 detects that the value is below the angle threshold, the mattress control unit 83 initiates air venting of the hip mattress 92, head mattress 94, and shoulder mattress 70. The mattress control unit 83 may force air venting of each mattress 70, 92, and 94 by reversing the operation of the pump 81. The mattress control unit 83 may perform air venting in the following order: head mattress 94, shoulder mattress 70, and hip mattress 92. Alternatively, the mattress control unit 83 may vent the hip mattress 92, head mattress 94, and shoulder mattress 70 simultaneously.

[0137] In the above embodiments, a shoulder mattress 70 having first air chambers 71a, 72a to third air chambers 71c, 72c has been used as an example for explanation. However, the present invention is not limited to this; for example, the number of air chambers in the shoulder mattress 70 is not limited to three. For example, the shoulder mattress may have more than three air chambers.

[0138] The implementation method may also include the following structure.

[0139] (Structure 1)

[0140] An inflatable mattress, wherein:

[0141] The main mattress supports the user's body; and

[0142] The shoulder mattress is located beneath the main mattress.

[0143] The shoulder mattress has:

[0144] The first air chamber is located on the outer side in the left-right direction of the shoulder mattress;

[0145] The second air chamber is located on the inner side of the shoulder mattress in the left-right direction, compared to the first air chamber; and

[0146] The third air chamber is located on the inner side of the shoulder mattress in the left-right direction, compared to the second air chamber.

[0147] The front end of the second air chamber is located further back than the front end of the first air chamber.

[0148] The front end of the third air chamber is located further back than the front end of the second air chamber.

[0149] (Structure 2)

[0150] According to the air mattress described in structure 1, wherein,

[0151] The outer diameter of the second air chamber is smaller than that of the first air chamber, but larger than that of the third air chamber.

[0152] (Structure 3)

[0153] According to structure 1 or 2, the air mattress, wherein,

[0154] The shoulder mattress has:

[0155] The left shoulder air chamber is located on the left side of the shoulder mattress; and

[0156] The right shoulder air chamber is located on the right side of the shoulder mattress.

[0157] (Structure 4)

[0158] According to the air mattress described in structure 3, wherein...

[0159] The first imaginary line formed by the inclined surface formed when the left shoulder air chamber expands and the second imaginary line formed by the inclined surface formed when the right shoulder air chamber expands do not intersect.

[0160] (Structure 5)

[0161] The air mattress according to any one of structures 1 to 4, wherein,

[0162] Regarding the shoulder mattress, the point where the imaginary line formed by the inclined surface created when the first to third air chambers expand and the horizontal line extending horizontally at the lower end of the shoulder mattress, i.e., the starting point of the inclination, meets does not cross the center of the main mattress in the left-right direction.

[0163] (Structure 6)

[0164] The air mattress according to any one of structures 1 to 5, wherein,

[0165] It also includes a mattress control unit for controlling the internal pressure of the shoulder mattress.

[0166] Regarding the mattress control unit,

[0167] When the back angle of the main mattress reaches or exceeds an angle threshold, air supply is performed to the shoulder mattress.

[0168] (Structure 7)

[0169] The air mattress according to any one of structures 1 to 6, wherein,

[0170] The shoulder mattress has:

[0171] The left shoulder air chamber is located on the left side of the shoulder mattress; and

[0172] The right shoulder air chamber is located on the right side of the shoulder mattress.

[0173] It also includes a mattress control unit for controlling the internal pressure of the shoulder mattress.

[0174] Regarding the mattress control unit,

[0175] Upon receiving a body pressure mode command signal, one of the left and right shoulder air chambers expands with a first internal pressure, and the other air chamber expands with a second internal pressure lower than the first internal pressure.

[0176] The above-described embodiments are examples embodying the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. For example, embodiments in which several constituent elements are added, deleted, or modified are also included in the present invention.

[0177] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0178] 10: Electric Bed Unit

[0179] 20: Bed

[0180] 21: Basic Framework

[0181] 22: Main Frame

[0182] 23: Bottom

[0183] 23a: Back bottom

[0184] 23b: Bottom of the waist

[0185] 23c: Base of the knee

[0186] 23d: Bottom of the legs

[0187] 25: Lifting mechanism

[0188] 31: First driving device

[0189] 32: Second drive unit

[0190] 33: Third drive unit

[0191] 35: Bed Operation Department

[0192] 35a: Back lift button

[0193] 35b: Back lowering button

[0194] 35c: Leg lift button

[0195] 35d: Leg lowering button

[0196] 35e: Up button

[0197] 35f: Down button

[0198] 37: Angle sensor

[0199] 39: Bed Control Department

[0200] 39a: Storage Department

[0201] 50: Air mattress

[0202] 52: Mattress

[0203] 60: Main mattress

[0204] 60a: Air chamber

[0205] 70: Shoulder Mattress

[0206] 71: Left shoulder air chamber

[0207] 71a: First air chamber

[0208] 71a1: Frontend

[0209] 71b: Second air chamber

[0210] 71b1: Frontend

[0211] 71c: Third air chamber

[0212] 71c1: Frontend

[0213] 72: Right shoulder air chamber

[0214] 72a: First air chamber

[0215] 72a1: Frontend

[0216] 72b: Second air chamber

[0217] 72b1: Frontend

[0218] 72c: Third air chamber

[0219] 72c1: Frontend

[0220] 75a: First imaginary line (inclined surface)

[0221] 75b: Second Imaginary Line (Inclined Surface)

[0222] 76a, 76b: Inclined starting point

[0223] 80: Pump Unit

[0224] 81: Pump

[0225] 82: Solenoid valve unit

[0226] 83: Mattress Control Department

[0227] 83a: Storage Unit

[0228] 84: Barometric Pressure Sensor

[0229] 85: Mattress Operation Department

[0230] 85a: Body Stabilization Button

[0231] 85b: Position Change Button

[0232] 86: Angle sensor

[0233] 90: Air mattress

[0234] 91: Mattress

[0235] 92: Hip mattress

[0236] 92a: Left gluteal air chamber

[0237] 92b: Right gluteal air chamber

[0238] 94: Headrest Mattress

[0239] 94a: Back neck air chamber

[0240] 94b: Thoracic air chamber

[0241] F: Floor surface

[0242] H: User.

Claims

1. An inflatable mattress, comprising: The main mattress supports the user's body; and The shoulder mattress is located beneath the main mattress. The shoulder mattress has: The first air chamber is located on the outer side in the left-right direction of the shoulder mattress; The second air chamber is located on the inner side of the shoulder mattress in the left-right direction, compared to the first air chamber; and The third air chamber is located on the inner side of the shoulder mattress in the left-right direction, compared to the second air chamber. The front end of the second air chamber is located further back than the front end of the first air chamber. The front end of the third air chamber is located further back than the front end of the second air chamber.

2. The air mattress according to claim 1, wherein, The outer diameter of the second air chamber is smaller than that of the first air chamber, but larger than that of the third air chamber.

3. The air mattress according to claim 1, wherein, The shoulder mattress has: The left shoulder air chamber is located on the left side of the shoulder mattress; and The right shoulder air chamber is located on the right side of the shoulder mattress.

4. The air mattress according to claim 3, wherein, The first imaginary line formed by the inclined surface formed when the left shoulder air chamber expands and the second imaginary line formed by the inclined surface formed when the right shoulder air chamber expands do not intersect.

5. The air mattress according to claim 1, wherein, Regarding the shoulder mattress, the point where the imaginary line formed by the inclined surface created when the first to third air chambers expand and the horizontal line extending horizontally at the lower end of the shoulder mattress, i.e., the starting point of the inclination, meets does not cross the center of the main mattress in the left-right direction.

6. The air mattress according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a mattress control unit for controlling the internal pressure of the shoulder mattress. Regarding the mattress control unit, When the back angle of the main mattress reaches or exceeds an angle threshold, air supply is performed to the shoulder mattress.

7. The air mattress according to claim 1, wherein, The shoulder mattress has: The left shoulder air chamber is located on the left side of the shoulder mattress; and The right shoulder air chamber is located on the right side of the shoulder mattress. It also includes a mattress control unit for controlling the internal pressure of the shoulder mattress. Regarding the mattress control unit, Upon receiving a body pressure mode command signal, one of the left and right shoulder air chambers expands with a first internal pressure, and the other air chamber expands with a second internal pressure lower than the first internal pressure.

Images