Multi-position airflow control assembly for air cushions

Abstract

The multi-position airflow control assembly includes a valve housing, a valve body received in the valve housing, a plurality of connectors coupled to the valve body, each connector configured to be fluidly connected to an inflatable region of a cellular cushion, and a control assembly partially received in the valve body. The control assembly includes a sealing member and an actuation assembly operably connected to the sealing member and configured to rotate the sealing member relative to the valve body. The sealing member is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to inflatable air cushions. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an airflow control assembly for use with an inflatable air cushion having multiple inflatable regions. The airflow control assembly is configured to selectively fluidly connect different combinations of the inflatable regions to facilitate improved adjustability and customization of the inflatable air cushion for a user. [Background technology]

[0002] Wheelchair-bound individuals are at high risk of developing tissue breakdown and pressure sores that may be difficult to treat and / or heal. In certain circumstances, a majority of an individual's body weight may be concentrated in the ischial region, including the ischial tuberosity or bony prominence of the buttocks. Without regular movement, blood flow to the skin tissue in these areas may be reduced, leading to tissue damage and the development of pressure sores. Inflatable cellular air cushions are commonly known to improve body weight distribution, thereby protecting against tissue damage and the development of pressure sores. These cushions may include a series of air cells that protrude upward from a common base. Within the base, the air cells are configured to communicate with one another, and therefore all exist at the same internal pressure. As such, each air cell exerts essentially the same restoring force on the buttocks, regardless of the degree to which it is deflected. U.S. Pat. No. 4,541,136 discloses such a cellular cushion, currently manufactured and sold by Permobil, Inc. of Tennessee, USA, for use in wheelchairs. The air cells may be divided into a number of air regions. What is needed is an improved valve system for use with an air cushion that improves the control and adjustability of the different air regions of the air cushion. More specifically, what is needed is a valve assembly that facilitates selective fluid communication between different combinations of air cell regions of an air cushion to improve the adjustability and customizability of an inflatable air cushion to a user. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one embodiment, the multi-position airflow control assembly includes a valve housing, a valve body received in the valve housing, a plurality of connectors coupled to the valve body, each connector configured to fluidly connect to an inflatable region of the cellular cushion, and a control assembly partially received in the valve body. The control assembly includes a sealing member and an actuation assembly operatively connected to the sealing member and configured to rotate the sealing member relative to the valve body. The sealing member is configured to rotate between at least a first position and a second position. In response to the first position, the sealing member is fluidly connected to the plurality of connectors such that the connectors are fluidly isolated from one another. In response to the second position, the sealing member is fluidly connected to the plurality of connectors such that the connectors are grouped into a first connector group and a second connector group, the first connector group is fluidly connected, the second connector group is fluidly connected, and the first connector group is fluidly isolated from the second connector group.

[0004] Other aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of one embodiment of a cellular cushion. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a top view of the cellular cushion of FIG. 1 with some cells removed to show the different cell regions. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a top view of one example embodiment of a multi-position airflow control assembly for use with the cellular cushion of FIG. 1, with the valve housing and valve body shown in hidden lines for clarity. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the multi-position air flow control assembly of FIG. 3 with the valve housing and valve body shown in hidden lines and the biasing member of the actuation assembly removed for clarity. [Diagram 5] 5 is a perspective view of a valve housing of the multi-position air flow control assembly of FIG. 3 shown in an open configuration. [Figure 6] 6 is a perspective view of a valve body of the multi-position air flow control assembly of FIG. 3. FIG. [Figure 7] 7 is a cross-sectional view of the valve body of FIG. 6 taken along line 7-7 of FIG. [Figure 8] 8 is a perspective view of a control assembly of the multi-position air flow control assembly of FIG. 3 shown separated from the valve housing and valve body. [Figure 9] 9 is a perspective view of the control assembly of FIG. 8 with the sealing member removed from the shaft. [Figure 10] 10 is a perspective view of the sealing member of the control assembly of FIG. 8 showing a first sealing configuration. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the sealing member of FIG. 10 showing a second sealing configuration. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the sealing member of FIG. 10 showing a third sealing configuration. [Figure 13] 13 is an end view of the closure member of FIG. 10 taken along line 13-13 of FIG. [Figure 14] 14 is a cross-sectional view of the closure body of FIG. 10 taken along line 14-14 of FIG. [Figure 15] 15 is a perspective view of the actuation assembly of the control assembly of FIG. 8, with the housing shown semi-transparent for clarity to show the internal components. [Figure 16] 16 is a perspective view of the indicator member of the control assembly of FIG. 8 showing a first indicia associated with a first sealing configuration. [Figure 17] 9 is a perspective view of the indicator member of the control assembly of FIG. 8 showing a second indicia associated with a second sealing configuration. [Figure 18] 9 is a perspective view of the indicator member of the control assembly of FIG. 8 showing a third indicia associated with a third sealing configuration.

[0006] Before describing the embodiments of the present disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings, as the disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] The present disclosure relates to one embodiment of a multi-position airflow control assembly 200 configured to operate with a cellular cushion 10. The multi-position airflow control assembly 200 is configured to selectively fluidly connect (or selectively fluidly isolate) different combinations of the inflatable regions 30, 34, 38, 42 of the cellular cushion 10. The multi-position airflow control assembly 200 provides an actuation assembly 220 for facilitating selection of the associated fluid connection or isolation of the inflatable regions 30, 34, 38, 42, along with an indicator member 224 for readily informing a user of the selected fluid connection or isolation.

[0008] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of one embodiment of the cellular cushion 10 (also referred to as the cellular air cushion 10). The cellular cushion 10 includes a base 14 and a plurality of air cells 18. The base 14 is comprised of a bottom layer 22 and a top layer 26. The bottom layer 22, also referred to as the backing layer 22, can be coupled to the top layer 26, for example, via a suitable adhesive or the like. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom layer 22 is formed from a first material and the top layer 26 can be formed from a second, different material. In one example embodiment, the bottom layer 22 is formed from polyurethane, while the top layer 26 can be formed from flexible neoprene. In other example embodiments, the bottom layer 22 and the top layer 26 can be formed from any material (or combination of materials) suitable for the operation of the cellular cushion 10 as described herein. A suitable example of the cellular cushion 10 is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,541,136, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0009] The plurality of air cells 18 protrude away from the base 14. The plurality of air cells 18 are molded to, and therefore defined by, the top layer 26. Additionally, the top layer 26 interconnects the plurality of air cells 18. Each of the plurality of air cells 18 includes four fins F. In other example embodiments, each of the plurality of air cells 18 can have any suitable configuration, including, but not limited to, any number of fins, any number of sides, or air cells 18 with no fins (e.g., cylindrical cells, cubic cells, round cells, etc.).

[0010] The plurality of air cells 18 are arranged on the top layer 26 in a plurality of longitudinal and lateral rows, such that each air cell 18 occupies both a longitudinal row and a lateral row. In other exemplary embodiments, the plurality of air cells 18 can be arranged in any suitable geometric shape to provide support to a user. For example, the air cells 18 can be arranged in a semi-circular pattern, a circular pattern, or any other suitable arrangement or geometric shape of air cells 18.

[0011] 2, the cellular cushion 10 is arranged in a plurality of regions. More specifically, the air cells 18 of the cellular cushion 10 (shown in FIG. 1) are arranged in a plurality of regions (also referred to as expansion regions). In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of regions includes four different expansion regions 30, 34, 38, 42. The first region 30 is adjacent to the second region 34 along a first axis 46. In other words, the first region 30 and the second region 34 are side-by-side at the front F (or first end F) of the cellular cushion 10. The third region 38 is adjacent to the fourth region 42 along the first axis 46. In other words, the third region 38 and the fourth region 42 are side-by-side at the rear R (or second end R) of the cellular cushion 10. In addition, the first region 30 and the third region 38 are side-by-side along a second axis 50. Stated another way, the first region 30 and the third region 38 are side-by-side along the right side S1 (or first side S1) of the cellular cushion 10. The second region 34 and the fourth region 42 are also side-by-side along the second axis 50. Stated another way, the second region 34 and the fourth region 42 are side-by-side along the left side S2 (or second side S2) of the cellular cushion 10. It should be understood that the sides (i.e., right and left sides) are described in relation to a user sitting on the cellular cushion 10. When describing the sides in relation to viewing the cellular cushion 10 from the front F to the rear R, the first side S1 can be referred to as the left side and the second side S2 can be referred to as the right side. In the illustrated embodiment, the first axis 46 is generally perpendicular (or generally orthogonal) to the second axis 50. In other embodiments of the cellular cushion 10, the regions 30, 34, 38, 42 of air cells 18 (shown in FIG. 1) can be oriented in any suitable orientation or geometry relative to one another. Additionally, in other example embodiments, the multiple regions can include two regions, three regions, five or more regions, or any suitable or desired number of regions. It should be understood that each region 30, 34, 38, 42 includes a plurality of air cells 18 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0012] Fluid conduits 54, 58, 62, 66 (also referred to as air conduits 54, 58, 62, 66) fluidly connect each of the plurality of regions 30, 34, 38, 42 to the valve assembly 100. A first fluid conduit 54 fluidly connects the first region 30 to the valve assembly 100. A second fluid conduit 58 fluidly connects the second region 34 to the valve assembly 100. A third fluid conduit 62 fluidly connects the third region 38 to the valve assembly 100. A fourth fluid conduit 66 fluidly connects the fourth region 42 to the valve assembly 100. It should be understood that each region 30, 34, 38, 42 is generally fluidly isolated from the other regions 30, 34, 38, 42. It should be understood that each conduit 54, 58, 62, 66 may be formed in any suitable manner. For example, in one embodiment, each conduit 54, 58, 62, 66 can be molded or vacuum formed between the lower layer 22 and the upper layer 26 of the base 14 (as shown in FIG. 1).

[0013] An air valve 70 (also referred to as an inflation / deflation valve 70) is fluidly connected to the plurality of air cells 18 (as shown in FIG. 1 ). More specifically, the air valve 70 is fluidly connected to the second region 34. In other example embodiments, the air valve 70 can be fluidly connected to the first region 30, the third region 38, or the fourth region 42. The air valve 70 is configured to facilitate the inflation and deflation of the plurality of air cells 18 (or the inflation and deflation of the plurality of regions 30, 34, 38, 42). For example, the air valve 70 can be configured to engage an air pump (not shown) to facilitate inflation. The air pump can be a hand pump, a manual pump, an electric pump, or any other suitable pump configured to provide air to the cellular cushion 10. The air pump (not shown) can provide a flow of air to one of the regions (e.g., the second region 34, the first region 30, etc.). The air travels from the second region 34 to the valve assembly 100 via a conduit 58. The air is then distributed by the valve assembly 100 to the other regions 30, 38, 42 via the respective conduits 54, 62, 66. Similarly, the air valve 70 can be configured to deflate the plurality of cells 18 (shown in FIG. 1 ) of the cellular cushion 10. The air valve 70 can be opened to the atmosphere to facilitate the release of air within the plurality of cells 18. More specifically, air can flow from the first region 30, the third region 38, and the fourth region 42 to the second region 34. The air flows through the respective conduits 54, 62, 66 to the valve assembly 100 where it is directed through the conduit 58 to the second region 34 and then through the air valve 70 to be exhausted from the cellular cushion 10.

[0014] The valve assembly 100 shown in FIG. 2 is configured to selectively open and close. In response to being in an open position, the valve assembly 100 is configured to fluidly connect all of the regions 30, 34, 38, 42 via the respective conduits 54, 58, 62, 66. The open position is desirable for expansion or contraction of the regions 30, 34, 38, 42 (or associated air cells 18 shown in FIG. 1). In response to being in a closed position, the valve assembly 100 is configured to fluidly isolate all of the regions 30, 34, 38, 42. As such, each of the plurality of regions 30, 34, 38, 42 is fluidly isolated such that air cannot travel from one region 62, 66, 38, 42 to any of the other regions 30, 34, 38, 42 through the respective conduits 54, 58, 30, 34. In other words, the valve assembly 100 blocks such fluid movement between the regions 30, 34, 38, 42. One example of a valve assembly 100 is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,687,936, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Valve assembly 100 has the particular limitation of having only two positions: an open position and a closed position.

[0015] 3-18 illustrate an embodiment of a multi-position airflow control assembly 200. The multi-position airflow control assembly 200 is configured to engage the cellular cushion 10 in place of the valve assembly 100. The multi-position airflow control assembly 200 advantageously provides selective adjustment to fluidly connect different combinations of the regions 30, 34, 38, 42. As such, the multi-position airflow control assembly 200 can fluidly isolate all of the regions 30, 34, 38, 42, fluidly connect all of the regions 30, 34, 38, 42, and / or fluidly connect a combination of the regions 30, 34 and the regions 38, 42. In other example embodiments, the multi-position airflow control assembly 200 can fluidly connect one or more different combinations of the regions, including, but not limited to, the regions 30, 38 and the regions 34, 42. In yet other example embodiments, the multi-position airflow control assembly 200 can fluidly connect one or more regions while fluidly isolating the remaining regions. For example, regions 30, 34 may be fluidly connected, while regions 38 and 42 are fluidly isolated from regions 30, 34 and from each other. Stated differently, in this configuration, there are effectively three regions: a first region 30, 34, a second region 38, and a third region 42. In this configuration, the two regions 30, 34 located closest to the front portion F of the cellular cushion 10 are in fluid communication with each other. As another example, regions 38, 42 may be fluidly connected, while regions 30 and 34 are fluidly isolated from regions 38, 42 and from each other. Stated differently, there are effectively three regions: a first region 30, a second region 34, and a third region 38, 42. In this configuration, the two regions 38, 42 located closest to the rear portion R of the cellular cushion 10 are in fluid communication with each other. It should be appreciated that the multi-position air flow control assembly 200 may be configured to fluidly connect (or isolate) any suitable or desired region or combination of associated regions from the remaining regions.

[0016] 3 and 4, the multi-position airflow control assembly 200 includes a valve housing 204 (also referred to as an outer housing 204). The valve housing 204 is configured to house a valve body 208. A control assembly 212 is partially received in the valve body 208. The control assembly 212 carries a sealing member 216 configured to rotate relative to the valve body 208. Depending on the orientation of the sealing member 216 relative to the valve body 208, the sealing member 216 is configured to facilitate (or restrict) a fluid connection between one or more of the expansion regions 30, 34, 38, 42 (shown in FIG. 2). The control assembly 212 also includes an actuation assembly 220 configured to facilitate selective rotation of the sealing member 216 relative to the valve body 208. In addition, the control assembly 212 includes an indicator member 224. The indicator member 224 includes indicia that indicate to a user the position of the sealing member 216. The sealing member 216 is received in the valve body 208 , while a portion of the control assembly 212 and an indicator member 224 are located outside of the valve body 208 .

[0017] 5, the valve housing 204 is shown in an open configuration with the valve body 208 and the control assembly 212 removed. The valve housing 204 includes a first portion 228 and a second portion 232. The first portion 228 defines a valve body receiving portion 228. The first portion 228 is configured to receive and partially surround the valve body 208 (as shown in FIG. 6). The first portion 228 is also configured to have a shape complementary to the valve body 208 to aid in retaining the valve body 208. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 228 defines a generally cylindrical housing configured to partially surround and retain the generally cylindrical valve body 208. In other example embodiments, the first portion 228 can define any suitable shape complementary to the valve body 208 (e.g., a triangle, a square, a rectangle, any other suitable polygon, etc.).

[0018] The second portion 232 defines a base-engaging portion 232 (also referred to as a cushion-engaging portion 232). The valve housing 204 forms a clamshell configuration. The hinge 236 is located within the first portion 228. The hinge 236 is shown as a living hinge integrated into the first portion 228. However, in other example embodiments, the hinge 236 can be any suitable hinge that facilitates movement of the clamshell configuration of the valve housing 204. The second portion 232 includes a first end 240 and a second end 244. The first end 240 and the second end 244 are configured to be selectively fastened to one another by a plurality of fasteners 248. Additionally, the first end 240 and the second end 244 are configured to engage a portion of the base 14 (as shown in FIG. 2). More specifically, in response to being fastened together, the first end 240 and the second end 244 are configured to engage and retain a portion of the base 14 (as shown in FIG. 2 ) to trap a portion of the base 14 between the ends 240, 244 and fasten the control assembly 200 to the base 14. To facilitate the fastening connection, the second end 244 retains a plurality of fasteners 248. The fasteners 248 are shown as arrowhead fasteners 248 configured to engage corresponding apertures 250 defined by the first end 240. The fasteners 248 in the illustrated embodiment are integrally formed with the associated end of the valve housing 204. It should be appreciated that in other example embodiments, the fasteners 248 can be attached to one of the first end 240 or the second end 244, while the apertures 250 can be defined by the other of the second end 244 or the first end 240. Additionally, in other example embodiments, the fastener 248 can be separate from (or not integrally formed with) either end 240, 244. Also, the fastener 248 can be any fastener (e.g., bolt, screw, etc.) suitable for selectively fastening the ends 240, 244 of the valve housing 204. It should be understood that the valve housing 204 can also be described as including a first housing member 251 and a second housing member 252. The first housing member 251 can include a portion of the first portion 228 and a portion of the second portion 232.Similarly, the second housing member 252 can include a portion of the first portion 228 and a portion of the second portion 232. In the illustrated embodiment, the first housing member 251 and the second housing member 252 are hingedly connected by a hinge 236. In one or more alternative embodiments, the first housing member 251 and the second housing member 252 do not include the hinge 236 and are therefore not hingedly connected. Instead, the first housing member 251 and the second housing member 252 can be separate components that define two halves of the valve housing 204. The first housing member 251 and the second housing member 252 can be fastened together by a fastening connection of fasteners 248 that engage respective openings 250.

[0019] Additionally, the first end 240 and the second end 244 are configured to help maintain a connection between each of the fluid conduits 54, 58, 62, 66 and the valve body 208. The first end 240 defines a plurality of channels 254. The channels 254 are configured to receive associated connectors 262 (shown in FIG. 6 ) of the valve body 208, which will be described in more detail below. Each channel 254 includes a plurality of first protrusions 258 (or at least one first protrusion 258) that extend around an inner circumference of the channel 254. In the illustrated embodiment, each channel 254 is semi-cylindrical and the associated first protrusion 258 is arcuate. The second end 244 also includes a plurality of second protrusions 260. At least one second protrusion 260 is associated with each channel 254. Each first protrusion 258 (also referred to as first rib 258) and second protrusion 260 (also referred to as second rib 260) associated with each channel 254 is configured to engage an associated radial channel defined by the respective connector to aid in retaining the connector 262 (shown in FIG. 6) within the channel 254. Stated differently, the protrusions 258, 260 limit the movement of each connector 262 (shown in FIG. 6) in the respective channel 254. In the illustrated embodiment, each channel 254 includes a pair of first protrusions 258 and a pair of second protrusions 260. In other example embodiments, each channel 254 can include at least one first protrusion 258 and at least one second protrusion 260. In other example embodiments, each channel 254 can include a plurality of first protrusions 258 and a plurality of second protrusions 260. It should be appreciated that in other example embodiments, the second end 244 can define a plurality of channels 254, while the first end 240 can define the protrusions 260. In yet other example embodiments, the protrusions 258, 260 can be optional.

[0020] The valve housing 204 includes a number of channels 254 that correspond to the number of connectors 262 (shown in FIG. 6 ) of the valve body 208. The number of connectors 262 (shown in FIG. 6 ) of the valve body 208 generally corresponds to the number of fluid conduits 54, 58, 62, 66 of the cellular cushion 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve housing 204 includes a plurality of channels 254. More specifically, the valve housing 204 includes four channels 254. These channels 254 correspond to the number of fluid conduits 54, 58, 62, 66 of the cellular cushion 10. In other example embodiments, the valve housing 204 can have any suitable number of channels 254 (e.g., 2, 3, 5 or more, etc.) that correspond to a valve body 208 having an associated number of connectors 262 (shown in FIG. 6 ) for use with a cellular cushion 10 having the same number of fluid conduits.

[0021] 6, the valve body 208 is shown. The valve body 208 includes a number of connectors 262 (or nipples 262). The connectors 262 extend radially from the valve body 208. Each connector 262 defines a number of radial recesses 264 (or at least one radial recess 264). The recesses 264 are configured to receive the protrusions 258, 260 (shown in FIG. 5) of the valve housing 204, as described above. Each of the connectors 262 defines a port 266 (also referred to as an interior channel 266) for forming a fluid connection to an interior 267 of the valve body 208. Additionally, each connector 262 is configured to fluidly connect to an associated fluid conduit 54, 58, 62, 66 of the cellular cushion 10. For example, each connector 262 is configured to be received by an associated fluid conduit 54, 58, 62, 66. This provides a fluid connection between each of the fluid conduits 54, 58, 62, 66 and the interior 267 of the valve body 208 via the interior channel 267 of each respective connector 262. In other example embodiments, each connector 262 can provide a fluid connection with a respective fluid conduit 54, 58, 62, 66 in any suitable or desired manner.

[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, the interior 267 of the valve body 208 is substantially hollow. The valve body 208 includes a first end 268 opposite a second end 270. The first end 268 and the second end 270 are opposite ends of the interior 267 of the valve body 208. Referring now to FIG. 7, which is a cross-sectional view of the valve body 208 of FIG. 6, the interior 267 of the valve body 208 decreases in diameter from the first end 268 to the second end 270. Stated differently, the hollow interior 267 has a first diameter D1 at the first end 268, while the hollow interior 267 has a second diameter D2 at the opposite second end 270. The first diameter D1 is greater than the second diameter D2. As such, the hollow interior 267 may be described as having a frustoconical shape. The geometry of the hollow interior 267 aids in an improved air seal while facilitating rotation of the control assembly 212 relative to the valve body 208, as described in further detail below. It should also be appreciated that because the control assembly 212 extends partially from the valve body 208 at both the first end 268 and the second end 270 (as shown in FIG. 3 ), the valve body 208 includes openings at the first end 268 and the second end 270 to facilitate receipt of the control assembly 212.

[0023] 8-9 show the control assembly 212 removed from the valve housing 204 and the valve body 208. The control assembly 212 includes a shaft 272 (also referred to as a spindle 272). The shaft 272 is configured to hold the sealing member 216. With particular reference to FIG. 9, the shaft 272 may include at least one channel 274. In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 272 includes a plurality of channels 274, more specifically, three channels 274 extending longitudinally along the shaft 272 and spaced radially apart. The channels 274 are configured to receive associated elongated projections 276 (shown in FIG. 13) extending radially inward on an inner circumference of the sealing member 216. In the illustrated embodiment, the sealing member 216 is a sleeve of a suitable material configured to selectively form an airtight seal within a portion of the valve body 208. For example, the material may be a silicone, silicone compound, or other suitable material that is suitable durable to rotate relative to the valve body 208 while also creating an airtight seal within a portion of the valve body 208. In other example embodiments, the sealing member 216 may be integral to the shaft 272. For example, the sealing member 216 may be overmolded onto the shaft 272, or the like.

[0024] 10-12, the sealing member 216 includes a plurality of sealing configurations for selectively facilitating different fluid connections between the fluid conduits 54, 58, 62, 66 and the associated inflatable regions 30, 34, 38, 42 of the cellular cushion 10 (shown in FIG. 1). FIG. 10 illustrates a first sealing configuration 278. In the first sealing configuration 278, the sealing is divided into a plurality of isolated compartments 280. More specifically, the sealing is divided into four fluidly isolated compartments 280. Each compartment 280 is separated from an adjacent compartment 280 by a circumferential radial divider 282. The first sealing configuration 278 is also separated from adjacent sealing configurations by a pair of elongated radial dividers 284 that extend along the length of the sealing member 216. As such, the elongated radial dividers 284 separate each sealing configuration. In the first sealing configuration 278, each compartment 280 is separated from an adjacent compartment. Similarly, air cannot flow between the compartments 280. When oriented in fluid communication with the connector 262 within the valve body 208, the first sealing configuration 278 fluidly isolates each of the fluid conduits 54, 58, 62, 66 and associated expansion regions 30, 34, 38, 42 from one another. As such, air cannot move between the expansion regions 30, 34, 38, 42 in response to the first sealing configuration 278.

[0025] 11 illustrates a second sealing configuration 286. In the second sealing configuration 286, the seal is divided into a single compartment 288. The second sealing configuration 286 is separated from adjacent sealing configurations by a pair of elongated radial partitions 284 that extend along the length of the sealing member 216. In the second sealing configuration 286, the single compartment 288 facilitates air flow within the compartment 288. When oriented in fluid communication with the connector 262 within the valve body 208, the second sealing configuration 286 fluidly connects each of the fluid conduits 54, 58, 62, 66 and associated expansion regions 30, 34, 38, 42 to one another. As such, air cannot move between the expansion regions 30, 34, 38, 42 in response to the second sealing configuration 286.

[0026] FIG. 12 illustrates a third sealing configuration 290. In the third sealing configuration 290, the seal is divided into a pair of separated compartments 292. More specifically, the seal is divided into two fluidly separated compartments 292. The compartments 292 are separated from adjacent compartments 292 by a single circumferential radial partition 282. The third sealing configuration 290 is separated from adjacent sealing configurations by a pair of elongated radial partitions 284 that extend along the length of the sealing member 216. Thus, the elongated radial partitions 284 separate each sealing configuration. In the third sealing configuration 290, each of the two compartments 292 is fluidly separated. Thus, air cannot flow between the compartments 292. When oriented in fluid communication with the connector 262 within the valve body 208, the third sealing configuration 290 fluidly connects two fluid conduits. Stated another way, the third sealing arrangement 290 provides a first group of expansion regions 30, 38 and a second group of expansion regions 34, 42. The first group of expansion regions, which in this embodiment are a first pair of expansion regions 30, 38, are fluidly connected. The second group of expansion regions, which in this embodiment are a second pair of expansion regions 34, 42, are also fluidly connected. Air is configured to flow between the first pair of expansion regions 30, 38. Similarly, air is configured to flow between the second pair of expansion regions 34, 42. However, air is restricted from flowing from the first pair of expansion regions to the second pair of expansion regions and vice versa. In the illustrated embodiment, the first pair of expansion regions corresponds to a first side S1 of the cellular cushion 10 and the second pair of expansion regions corresponds to a second side S2 of the cellular cushion. It should be appreciated that in other example embodiments, the third sealing arrangement 290 can be oriented with the associated fluid conduits 54, 58, 62, 66 such that the third sealing arrangement 290 provides a first pair of expansion areas corresponding to the expansion areas 30, 34 in the front portion F and a second pair of expansion areas corresponding to the expansion areas 38, 42 in the rear portion R. It should also be appreciated that the first group of expansion areas can be referred to as a first group of connectors 262 and the second group of expansion areas can be referred to as a second group of connectors 262.It should also be understood that while the first group of connectors are fluidly connected and the second group of connectors are fluidly connected, the first group of connectors 262 and the second group of connectors 262 are fluidly isolated from one another.

[0027] It should be appreciated that the illustrated embodiment of the sealing member 216 includes a plurality of different sealing configurations 278, 286, 290, and more specifically, three different sealing configurations 278, 286, 290. In this embodiment, each of the plurality of sealing configurations 278, 286, 290 is circumferentially offset around the circumference of the sealing member 216. Stated differently, the three sealing configurations 278, 286, 290 are each circumferentially offset by approximately 120° relative to an adjacent sealing configuration. Stated differently, the sealing member 216 is configured to be rotated approximately 120° to orient a selected (or desired) sealing configuration 278, 286, 290 for fluid communication with the connector 262 of the valve body 208. In other example embodiments, the sealing member 216 can include two different sealing configurations or four or more different sealing configurations. In yet other example embodiments, the sealing member 216 can include four sealing configurations, where the four sealing configurations are separated around the circumference into two pairs of alternating configurations (e.g., the first sealing configuration 278 and the second sealing configuration 286 can alternate twice, the first sealing configuration 278 and the third sealing configuration 290 can alternate twice, the second sealing configuration 286 and the third sealing configuration 290 can alternate twice, etc.). In still other example embodiments, the sealing member 216 can include any suitable number or arrangement of sealing configurations.

[0028] 14, the shape of the closure member 216 is shown. This shape is complementary to the shape of the valve body 208 shown in FIG. 7. The closure member 216 includes a first end 294 opposite a second end 296. The closure member 216 decreases in diameter from the first end 294 to the second end 296. Stated differently, the closure member 216 has a third diameter D3 at the first end 294, while the closure member 216 has a fourth diameter D4 at the opposite second end 296. The third diameter D3 is greater than the fourth diameter D4. The closure member 216 can thus be described as having a frusto-conical shape that is complementary to the frusto-conical shape of the interior 267 of the valve body 208 shown in FIG. 7.

[0029] 3, the control assembly 212 includes an actuation assembly 220. The actuation assembly 220 is configured to selectively rotate the sealing member 216 relative to the valve body 208. More specifically, the actuation assembly 220 is configured to rotate a shaft 272 that carries the sealing member 216. The shaft 272 and the sealing member 216 are configured to rotate relative to the valve body 208 (and valve housing 204).

[0030] The actuation assembly 220 includes a first actuation member 304, a second cam member 308, and a biasing member 312. With particular reference to FIG. 15, the first actuation member 304 is a plunger including a plurality of alternating angled projections 316 and angled recesses 320 about the circumference of the plunger. The first actuation member 304 also includes a plurality of raised projections 324 extending radially away from the plunger. Each of the raised projections 324 is configured to be received and slide within a horizontal channel 328 defined by a portion of a housing 332. The housing 332 is configured to receive the actuation assembly 220 and is connectable to the valve housing 204 (as shown in FIG. 3). The housing 332 also defines an angled surface 330 (or angled surface) extending between successive horizontal channels 328. The angled surface 330 is configured to guide the second cam member 308 during actuation and to facilitate rotation of the cam member 308.

[0031] Referring again to FIG. 3, the second cam member 308 is coupled to the shaft 272. More specifically, the second cam member 308 is configured to slide along the shaft 272 to further facilitate rotation of the shaft 272. Stated another way, the second cam member 308 is mated to engage with the shaft 272. To facilitate this movement, the shaft 272 may include a polygonal cross-sectional shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 272 has a generally hexagonal cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, the shaft may have a triangular, square, rectangular, or any other suitable cross-sectional shape to facilitate the sliding movement of the second cam member 308 relative to the shaft 272 while allowing the shaft 272 to rotate in accordance with the rotation of the second cam member 308. The second cam member 308 includes a plurality of cam surfaces 336 (also shown in FIG. 15). In the illustrated embodiment, the second cam member 308 includes approximately three cam surfaces 336. Each cam surface 336 is configured to be slidably received by one of the horizontal channels 328 defined by the housing 332. The number of cam surfaces 336 corresponds to the number of sealing configurations 278, 286, 290. Each cam surface 336 defines an angled (or inclined) end face. Each cam surface 336 is circumferentially separated from an adjacent cam surface 336 by a recess 340. As shown in FIG. 3, the biasing member 312 is configured to receive a portion of the shaft 272 and apply a biasing force against the second cam member 308. The biasing member 312 may be any suitable member configured to apply a biasing force to the second cam member 308 (e.g., a spring, etc.).

[0032] 15, in operation, the actuation assembly 220 is configured to rotate the sealing member 216 in response to lateral movement along a first axis A1. A user presses a portion of the actuation assembly 220, specifically the first actuation member 304, down toward the second cam member 308. The first actuation member 304 slides relative to the housing 332 along the first axis A1. The first axis A1 is defined by the shaft 272 (shown in FIG. 3). Alternatively, the first axis A1 is defined by the sealing member 216 (also shown in FIG. 3). The first axis A1 is generally parallel to the shaft 272 and generally parallel to the sealing member 216 carried by the shaft 272. As the first actuation member 304 slides toward the second cam member 308, each raised protrusion 324 slides within an associated respective channel 328, limiting the rotational movement of the first actuation member 304. In addition, the first actuating member 304, by means of each of the angled projections 316, engages and then slides laterally along (or relative to) the shaft 272 with the second cam member 308, compressing the biasing member 312 (as shown in FIG. 3). The cam surface 336 of the second cam member 308, each of which is received in one of the horizontal channels 328 defined by the housing 332, responds by sliding relative to the horizontal channel 328 toward the outlet end of each channel 328. As the cam surface 336 slides out of (i.e., through) each of the channels 328, the cam surface 336 engages with the angled surface 330, which is complementary to the angle of the cam surface 336 and is configured to guide each of the cam surfaces 336 into an adjacent channel 328. The biasing force applied to the second cam member 308 by the biasing member 312 directs each of the cam surfaces 336 along the angled surface 330. This causes the second cam member 308 to rotate with the shaft 272 and associated closure member 216. When the cam surface 336 reaches the adjacent channel 328, the user can release the compressive pressure applied to the first actuating member 304. The biasing member 312 then applies a biasing force to the second cam member 308, causing the second cam member 308 to slide along the shaft 272 toward the first actuating member 304.The cam surface 336 responsively slides toward the first actuation member 304 within the adjacent channel 328, directing both the cam surface 336 and the raised protrusion 324 in each channel 328 toward the end of the channel opposite the outlet. This completes one rotational cycle of the actuation assembly 220 which rotates the closure member 216 from one sealing configuration to an adjacent sealing configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure member 216 and associated shaft 272 are configured to rotate approximately 120° to orient the selected (or desired) sealing configuration into fluid communication with the connector 262 of the valve body 208. It should be understood that the actuation assembly may be configured to rotate lesser degrees to allow for additional sealing configuration positions on the closure member 216.

[0033] 8-9, an indicator member 224 is coupled to the control assembly 212. More specifically, the indicator member 224 is coupled to the sealing member 216 at an end opposite the actuation assembly 220. The indicator member 224 is configured to rotate with the sealing member 216 to provide a visual indication of the selected sealing configuration 278, 286, 290 to the user. As such, the indicator member 224 includes a plurality of indicia 344 representative of the selected sealing configuration 278, 286, 290. In the illustrated embodiment, the indicator member 224 is coupled to the shaft 272 at an end opposite the actuation assembly 220. As such, the indicator member 224 is configured to rotate in response to rotation of the shaft 272. Additionally, the indicator member 224 is configured to rotate with the shaft 272. FIG. 16 illustrates a first indicia 344a associated with the first sealing configuration 278. The first indicia 344a is shown as four raised protrusions representing four fluidly separated expansion regions 30, 34, 38, 42. FIG. 17 shows the second indicia 344b associated with the second sealing arrangement 286. The second indicia 344b is shown as a single raised protrusion representing all of the expansion regions 30, 34, 38, 42 being fluidly connected. FIG. 18 shows the third indicia 344c associated with the third sealing arrangement 290. The third indicia 344c is shown as a pair (or two) raised protrusions representing two pairs of expansion regions being connected to each other (e.g., a first pair of expansion regions 30, 38 are fluidly connected and a second pair of expansion regions 34, 42 are fluidly connected). The indicia 344a-c are generally rotationally offset from the associated sealing arrangements 278, 286, 290. More specifically, each indicia 344a-c is rotationally offset from an associated sealing arrangement 278, 286, 290 relative to the sealing member 216 by approximately 90 degrees (or rotated approximately 90 degrees relative to the first axis A1).This allows the selective sealing configurations 278, 286, 290 to be in fluid communication with the connector 262 (and associated fluid conduits 54, 58, 62, 66 of the associated expansion regions 30, 34, 38, 42) while providing a user access to easily view the associated indicia 344a-c of the selective sealing configurations 278, 286, 290 on the indicator member 224. Notably, because the connector 262 is generally parallel to the base 14 and the selected sealing configurations 278, 286, 290 are generally aligned with the connector 262, it is necessary to rotationally offset the indicia 344a-c relative to the associated sealing configurations 278, 286, 290 for ease of use. It should be appreciated that in other example embodiments, the particular indicia 344 can be any suitable indicator to a user of the selected sealing configuration 278, 286, 290.

[0034] In operation of the multi-position airflow control assembly 200, as described above, actuation of the actuation assembly 220 is configured to selectively rotate the sealing assembly 216 relative to the valve body 208. As the sealing assembly 216 rotates, one of the plurality of sealing configurations 278, 286, 290 is placed in fluid communication with the connector 262, thereby causing said one of the plurality of sealing configurations 278, 286, 290 to fluidly engage with the fluid conduits 54, 58, 62, 66 of each associated expansion region 30, 34, 38, 42. The indicator member 224 rotates with the sealing assembly 216 to orient the indicia 344a-c associated with the selected sealing configuration 278, 286, 290 to provide an indication of the selected sealing configuration 278, 286, 290 to a user. Stated another way, the indicia 344a-c associated with the selected sealing configuration 278, 286, 290 are exposed (or become visible) to a user. Each actuation of the actuation assembly 220 cycles the sealing assembly 216 between the plurality of sealing configurations 278, 286, 290 (or places each of the plurality of sealing configurations 278, 286, 290 in fluid engagement with the fluid conduits 54, 58, 62, 66 of each associated expansion region 30, 34, 38, 42). Rotation of the sealing assembly 216 is responsive to rotation of the shaft 272. Similarly, rotation of the indicator member 224 is responsive to rotation of the shaft 272. Rotation of the shaft 272 is responsive to actuation of the actuation assembly 220.

[0035] One or more aspects of the multi-position airflow control assembly 200 provide certain advantages. For example, the sealing assembly 216 includes a plurality of sealing configurations 278, 286, 290 configured to selectively fluidly connect or fluidly isolate one or more inflatable regions 30, 34, 38, 42 of the cellular cushion 10, thereby providing improved adjustability and customizability for the user. The adjustability and customizability allows the cellular cushion 10 to be optimized for the user, further reducing the risk of tissue damage and / or pressure sores due to prolonged sitting. These and other advantages are achieved by the disclosure provided herein.

Claims

1. 1. A multi-position air flow control assembly comprising: A valve housing; a valve body received by the valve housing; a plurality of connectors coupled to the valve body, each connector configured to be fluidly connected to an inflatable region of a cellular cushion; a control assembly received in part by the valve body, the control assembly comprising: A sealing member; an actuation assembly connected to the closure member and configured to rotate the closure member relative to the valve body; a control assembly including: Including, the sealing member is configured to rotate between at least a first position and a second position; in response to the first position, the sealing member is fluidly connected to the plurality of connectors such that the plurality of connectors are fluidly isolated from one another; A multi-position air flow control assembly, wherein in response to the second position, the sealing member is fluidly connected to the plurality of connectors such that the plurality of connectors are grouped into a first group of connectors and a second group of connectors, the first group of connectors being fluidly connected, the second group of connectors being fluidly connected, and the first group of connectors being fluidly isolated from the second group of connectors.

2. 2. The multi-position air flow control assembly of claim 1, wherein the sealing member is configured to rotate to a third position, and in response to the third position, the sealing member is fluidly connected to the plurality of connectors such that the plurality of connectors are fluidly connected together.

3. The multi-position airflow control assembly of claim 1 , wherein the control assembly includes an indicator member configured to rotate with the sealing member.

4. 4. The multi-position airflow control assembly of claim 3, wherein the indicator member includes a first indicia associated with a first position of the sealing member and a second indicia associated with a second position of the sealing member, the first indicia being exposed in response to the first position and the second indicia being exposed in response to the second position.

5. 2. The multi-position air flow control assembly of claim 1, wherein the actuation assembly is configured to rotate the sealing member relative to the valve body in response to lateral movement of a portion of the actuation assembly along an axis.

6. The multi-position air flow control assembly of claim 5 , wherein said axis is parallel to said sealing member.

7. The multi-position airflow control assembly of claim 1 , wherein the control assembly includes a shaft, the sealing member being carried by the shaft.

8. The multi-position air flow control assembly of claim 7 , wherein the actuation assembly is coupled to a first end of the shaft.

9. 9. The multi-position airflow control assembly of claim 8, wherein the control assembly includes an indicator member coupled to a second end of the shaft opposite the first end.

10. 9. The multi-position air flow control assembly of claim 8, wherein the actuation assembly is configured to rotate the shaft relative to the valve body, and in response, the shaft is configured to rotate the sealing member relative to the valve body.

11. 11. The multi-position airflow control assembly of claim 10, wherein the actuation assembly is configured to rotate the shaft in response to lateral movement of a portion of the actuation assembly along an axis defined by the shaft.

12. 12. The multi-position air flow control assembly of claim 11, wherein the actuation assembly includes a first actuation member, a second cam member slidably connected to the shaft, and a biasing member configured to apply a biasing force to the second cam member, wherein in response to movement of the first actuation member along the axis, the second cam member slides relative to the shaft along the axis until the biasing force urges rotation of the second cam member relative to the first actuation member, and in response to rotation of the second cam member, the shaft rotates relative to the valve body.

13. 2. The multi-position air flow control assembly of claim 1, wherein the valve body defines a frusto-conical shape and the sealing member defines a complementary frusto-conical shape.

14. 2. The multi-position air flow control assembly of claim 1, wherein the valve housing includes a first portion having a living hinge and a second portion defining a first end and a second end, the first end configured to be selectively secured to the second end, the valve housing first portion configured to receive the valve body, and the first end and the second end configured to engage and retain a portion of a cellular air cushion between the first end and the second end.

15. 2. The multi-position air flow control assembly of claim 1, wherein the valve housing includes a first housing member and a second housing member, the first housing member configured to be selectively secured to the second housing member.

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