Air mattress

Abstract

This invention provides an air mattress that allows air to circulate even if a portion of the mattress is compressed by the user's weight, and that is also pressure-distributing. [Solution] An air mattress comprising a supply unit, a first passage and a second passage, a first flow path section and a second flow path section, a bag section provided between the first flow path section and the second flow path section, and a pressure control unit that controls the pressure in a plurality of cells, wherein the pressure control unit sequentially switches between cells that have a first pressure and a second pressure among the plurality of cells, and when a user lies down, air is circulated in at least a portion of the bag section on the cells that have a pressure of the second pressure or less among the plurality of cells.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate tot an air mattress.

Background Art

[0002] In medical institutions such as hospitals, an air mattress may be placed on a bed. The air mattress includes a plurality of air cells, and by controlling the pressure in the air cells, the comfort of the user can be kept comfortable. For example, an air mattress having a structure in which breathable urethane or the like is wrapped with a moisture-permeable skin is disposed between the user of the bed and the bottom of the bed, and air outlets and inlets are provided near both longitudinal ends, and air is circulated using a blowing means such as a blower to prevent bedsores and appropriately maintain the temperature and humidity of the skin.

[0003] However, in the above configuration, a part of the mattress on the surface where the user's weight is applied is crushed and air cannot pass through. Also, it is preferable to disperse the pressure resistance for preventing bedsores.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of embodiments of the present invention is to provide an air mattress capable of allowing air to flow even when a part of the mattress on the surface where the user's weight is applied is crushed, and capable of dispersing pressure resistance.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An air mattress according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a supply unit for supplying air; a first passage and a second passage through which air is supplied from the supply unit; a first flow channel and a second flow channel provided at both ends in the short direction and extending in the longitudinal direction, through which air is supplied from the supply unit via the first passage and through which air is supplied; a bag portion provided between the first and second flow channels, through which air is supplied from the first flow channel and which is pressed against by the user when the user lies down; and a bag portion provided between the first and second flow channels, through which air is supplied from the first flow channel and which is circulated at least in the short direction; and an air mattress provided below the bag portion from one end to the other in the longitudinal direction, in the short direction The device comprises a plurality of cells extending in a certain direction, to which air is supplied from the supply unit via the second passage, and a pressure control unit that controls the pressure within the plurality of cells, wherein the pressure within the plurality of cells has a first pressure and a second pressure or lower that is lower than the first pressure, and the pressure control unit controls the pressure in any one or more of the plurality of cells to the first pressure, and controls the pressure in the cells other than the cell with the first pressure to the second pressure or lower, and sequentially switches between the cells with the first pressure and the cells with the second pressure or lower among the plurality of cells, so that when a user lies down, air flows through at least a part of the bag portion on the cell with the second pressure or lower among the plurality of cells. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to embodiments of the present invention, even if a portion of the mattress on the side where the user's weight is applied is compressed, air can still be circulated, and pressure distribution can be achieved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an air mattress according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows the air mattress shown in Figure 1 with air supplied to the bag portion. [Figure 4]Figure 4 shows the state of the air mattress shown in Figure 1 when the user is lying on it in a supine position. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows the air mattress shown in Figure 4, in a state exhibiting the first mode, where the first cell is at or below the second pressure, which is lower than the first pressure. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the air mattress shown in Figure 4, in a state exhibiting the first mode where the third cell is at or below the second pressure, which is lower than the first pressure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this specification, when a user lies supine on a bed or mattress, the direction of the head relative to the torso is called the "head side," the direction of the feet is called the "foot side," the direction of the right hand is called the "right side," the direction of the left hand is called the "left side," the direction of the floor of the room is called the "down side," and the direction of the ceiling is called the "up side." The right and left sides are collectively called the "short side," the head side and foot side are collectively called the "long side," and the up and down sides are collectively called the "up and down direction."

[0010] The air mattress 100 according to this embodiment will now be described. The air mattress 100 according to this embodiment is used, for example, by being placed on a medical bed. The user lies on the air mattress 100. The air mattress 100 may also be used by being placed on a nursing care bed. Nursing care beds are used not only in medical institutions such as hospitals, but also in nursing care facilities and the user's home. The user of the air mattress 100 is, for example, a patient or a person requiring care. Furthermore, the air mattress 100 according to this embodiment is preferably used for the prevention of pressure ulcers, and is preferably used as a countermeasure against microclimates, which are said to be one of the causes of pressure ulcers. The bed 100 according to this embodiment will now be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] Figure 1 shows an air mattress 100 according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in Figure 1. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the air mattress 100 according to the embodiment includes a supply unit 10, a first passage 21, a second passage 22, a first flow path section 31, a second flow path section 32, a bag section 40, a plurality of cells 50, and a pressure control unit 60. In this specification, the left direction in Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 is indicated as the foot side, and the right direction is indicated as the head side.

[0012] The supply unit 10 supplies air. The supply unit 10 may be a pump, such as a diaphragm pump. There may be one or more supply units 10.

[0013] The first passage 21 and the second passage 22 are connected to the supply unit 10, and air is supplied from the supply unit 10. The first passage 21 and the second passage 22 may be pipes or the like. In this specification, "connected" means that fluid can flow through them. In addition to the first passage 21 and the second passage 22, the air mattress 100 according to this embodiment may also include a third passage 23 that returns the air discharged to the first passage 21 back to the supply unit 10.

[0014] The first flow channel section 31 is connected to the first passage 21. The first flow channel section 31 is provided at both ends in the short direction and extends in the longitudinal direction, and air is supplied from the supply section 10 via the first passage 21. Air is supplied to the second flow channel section 32 via the first flow channel section 31. The first flow channel section 31 and the second flow channel section 32 may be in the shape of bags.

[0015] As shown in Figure 2, the bag portion 40 is connected to the first flow channel portion 31 and the second flow channel portion 32. The bag portion 40 is also provided between the first flow channel portion 31 and the second flow channel portion 32. Air is supplied to the bag portion 40 from the first flow channel portion 31 and air flows through it at least in the short direction. In addition to air flowing through the bag portion 40 in the short direction, air also flows through it in the longitudinal direction and in diagonal directions between the short and longitudinal directions.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 2, the bag portion 40 may have a first bag portion 41, a second bag portion 42, and a third bag portion 43. Although three bag portions 40 are shown in FIG. 2, the number thereof is not limited. In the first bag portion 41, the second bag portion 42, and the third bag portion 43, air circulates not only in the short side direction but also in the longitudinal direction and in the diagonal direction of the short side direction and the longitudinal direction.

[0017] An upper fabric 90 may be provided above the bag portion 40. Also, a lower fabric 91 may be provided below the bag portion 40. The upper fabric 90 and the lower fabric 91 may be formed of a moisture-permeable sheet.

[0018] The plurality of cells 50 have, for example, a first cell 51, a second cell 52, and a third cell 53. Note that the number of the plurality of cells 50 is not limited. As shown in FIG. 1, the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53 are respectively arranged below from one end 41a to the other end 41b of the first bag portion 41 in the longitudinal direction, below from one end 42a to the other end 42b of the second bag portion 42, and below from one end 43a to the other end 43b of the third bag portion 43.

[0019] The first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53 extend in the short side direction. Also, the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53 are supplied with air from the supply unit 10 through the second passage 22. The heights of the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53 are substantially the same as each other. Also, the sizes and shapes of the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53 may be the same as or different from each other.

[0020] The supply unit 10 supplies air to the plurality of cells 50, for example, the first flow path portion 31, the bag portion 40, and the second flow path portion 32 through the first passage 21, and also supplies air to the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53 through the second passage 22. Also, the supply unit 10 may be separately provided with a first supply unit that supplies air to the first flow path portion 31, the bag portion 40, and the second flow path portion 32 through the first passage 21 and a second supply unit that supplies air to the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53 through the second passage 22.

[0021] The pressure control unit 60 controls the pressures of a plurality of cells 50, for example, the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53. The pressures in the plurality of cells 50 have a first pressure P1 and a second pressure P2 that is not higher than the first pressure P1. Then, the pressure control unit 60 controls the pressure in any one or more of the plurality of cells 50 to the first pressure P1, and controls the pressure in the cells other than the cells set to the first pressure P1 to not higher than the second pressure P2. Further, the pressure control unit 60 sequentially switches and executes the cells that become the first pressure P1 and not higher than the second pressure P2 among the plurality of cells 50. Hereinafter, a case where the plurality of cells 50 include the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53 will be described as an example.

[0022] The pressure control unit 60 at least executes a first mode T1, a second mode T2, and a third mode T3. In the first mode T1, the pressures in the second cell 52 and the third cell 53 are set to the first pressure P1, and the pressure in the first cell 51 is set to not higher than the second pressure P2 that is lower than the first pressure P1. In the second mode T2, the pressures in the first cell 51 and the third cell 53 are set to the first pressure P1, and the pressure in the second cell 52 is set to not higher than the second pressure P2. In the third mode T3, the pressures in the first cell 51 and the second cell 52 are set to the first pressure P1, and the pressure in the third cell 53 is set to not higher than the second pressure P2. This will be described in detail below.

[0023] FIG. 3 shows a state in which air is supplied to the bag portion 40 of the air mattress 100 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 shows a state of the air mattress 100 when the user A lies supine on the air mattress 100 shown in FIG. 1. In the air mattress 100 shown in FIG. 3, the user A is not on it, and the bag portion 40 and the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53 are inflated. In the air mattress 100 shown in FIG. 4, the user A is lying supine, and due to the weight of the user A, the bag portion 40 is pushed downward and crushed. On the other hand, the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53 are inflated, and the third cell 53 below the second bag portion 42 where the weight of the user A is most applied is smaller than the other cells.

[0024] As shown in Figure 4, the air mattress 100 according to this embodiment is equipped with a pillow 92 below the head of user A and a head cell 54 below the pillow 92.

[0025] The pressure control unit 60 realizes the initial state. In the initial state, the pressure control unit 60 sets the internal pressure of all cells, the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53, to the first pressure P1. As shown in Figure 4, the first pressure P1 is such that when user A is lying on the air mattress 100, all cells 51, 52, and 53 are maintained in an inflated state, and user A is comfortably supported by at least the first cell 51, 52, and 53. For example, the first pressure P1 is such that the contact area between the first cell 51, 52, and 53 and user A is maximized. In the initial state T0, the first pressure P1 is set to a preset value.

[0026] Figure 5 shows the air mattress 100 shown in Figure 4, in a state where the first cell 51 exhibits a first mode T1, where the second pressure P2 is lower than or equal to the first pressure P1. Figure 6 shows the air mattress 100 shown in Figure 4, in a state where the second cell 52 exhibits a first mode T1, where the second pressure P2 is lower than or equal to the first pressure P1.

[0027] As shown in Figure 5, in the first mode T1, the pressure in the second cell 52 and the third cell 53 is set as the first pressure P1, and the pressure in the first cell 51 is set to be less than or equal to the second pressure P2. The second pressure P2 is lower than the first pressure P1. The pressure in the first cell 51 is, for example, close to atmospheric pressure. As a result, user A is supported by the second cell 52 and the third cell 53, but not by the first cell 51. The duration of the first mode T1 is, for example, 5 minutes.

[0028] As shown in Figure 6, in the second mode T2, the pressure in the first cell 51 is returned to the first pressure P1, and the pressure in the second cell 52 is set to be less than or equal to the second pressure P2. The pressure in the second cell 52 is, for example, close to atmospheric pressure. As a result, user A is supported by the first cell 51 and the third cell 53, but not by the second cell 52. The duration of the second mode T2 is, for example, 5 minutes.

[0029] In the third mode T3, the pressure in the second cell 52 is returned to the first pressure P1, and the pressure in the third cell 53 is set to the second pressure P2 or less. The pressure in the third cell 53 is, for example, close to atmospheric pressure. As a result, user A is supported by the first cell 51 and the second cell 52, but not by the third cell 53. The duration of the third mode T3 is, for example, 5 minutes.

[0030] The air mattress 100 according to this embodiment repeats a first mode T1, a second mode T2, and a third mode T3 set at desired intervals. In this way, the pressure control unit 60 sequentially reduces the internal pressure of the multiple first cells 51, second cells 52, and third cells 53 to a second pressure P2 or lower. As a result, the parts of the user A's body that are not pressed by the first cells 51, second cells 52, and third cells 53 gradually shift, allowing for pressure distribution and suppressing the development of pressure sores.

[0031] Although the example given was that the multiple cells 50 consist of three cells: a first cell, a second cell, and a third cell, there is no limit to the number of cells, and four or more are possible. Furthermore, the pressure control unit 60 may set one or more cells to the first pressure P1, and one or more cells to the second pressure P2. For example, if there are four multiple cells 50, one cell may be set to the first pressure P1 and the other cells to the second pressure P2 or lower, or two cells may be set to the first pressure P1 and the other cells to the second pressure P2 or lower. Then, the cells among the multiple cells 50 that are at the first pressure P1 and the cells at the second pressure P2 or lower are sequentially switched and executed. In this case, when the user lies down, air is circulated in at least a portion of the bag portion 40 on the cells among the multiple cells 50 that are at the second pressure P2 or lower.

[0032] The air mattress 100 according to this embodiment may further include a first solenoid valve 71, a second solenoid valve 72, and a third solenoid valve 73 to change the pressure of the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53. The first solenoid valve 71, the second solenoid valve 72, and the third solenoid valve 73 each have a first end and a second end, and can switch between allowing or prohibiting the flow of air between the first end and the second end. Multiple first cells 51 are interconnected and connected to the first end of one solenoid valve. Multiple second cells 52 are interconnected and connected to the first end of the second solenoid valve 72. Multiple third cells 53 are interconnected and connected to the first end of the third solenoid valve 73. The second passage 22 is connected to the first solenoid valve 71, the second solenoid valve 72, and the third solenoid valve 73 downstream of the supply unit 10, and is divided into three passages by them.

[0033] The air mattress 100 according to this embodiment may be equipped with an external solenoid valve 74. The first end of the external solenoid valve 74 is connected to the outside of the air mattress 100 and is capable of drawing in or expelling air.

[0034] The air mattress 100 according to this embodiment may further include a pressure sensor 61 to determine the pressures of the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53. In this way, the pressure control unit 60 can accurately control the pressures of the first mode T1, the second mode T2, and the third mode T3. The pressure sensor 61 is connected to the second passage 22.

[0035] Next, the airflow within the bag portion 40 in the first mode T1, the second mode T2, and the third mode T3 will be described.

[0036] In Figure 3, since user A is not lying on the air mattress 100, the bag portion 40 is not crushed, and air can circulate within the bag portion 40. However, as shown in Figure 4, when user A lies supine on the air mattress 100, the bag portion 40 is crushed, making it difficult for air to circulate within the bag portion 40. Therefore, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, in the air mattress 100 according to this embodiment, even when user A lies supine on the air mattress 100, when the pressure control unit 60 sets it to the first mode T1 or second mode T2, the bag portion 40 above the first cell 51 or second cell 52 is not crushed, and air can circulate within that portion of the bag portion 40. Thus, in the air mattress 100 according to this embodiment, even if a part of the mattress on the side pressed by the user's weight is crushed, air can circulate in the shorter direction. Furthermore, the air mattress 100 according to this embodiment is capable of pressure distribution because the pressure control unit 60 executes the first mode T1, the second mode T2, and the third mode T3.

[0037] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the air mattress 100 has a pressure control unit 60 that executes a first mode T1, a second mode T2, and a third mode T3, which allows air to circulate within the first bag section 41, the second bag section 42, and the third bag section 43 located above the first cell 51, the second cell 52, and the third cell 53. This prevents heat and moisture from accumulating in the area where user A is in contact with the air mattress 100, making it effective in preventing pressure ulcers.

[0038] Preferably, the bag portion 40 has a first elastic body 44 inside that extends in the vertical direction, which is both the short side and the thickness direction of the bag portion 40, as shown in Figure 1, etc. Preferably, the bag portion 40 also has a second elastic body 45 inside that extends in the vertical direction, which is both the short side and the thickness direction, and is thinner than the first elastic body 44. In other words, as shown in Figure 1, the second elastic body 45 is shorter than the first elastic body 44 in the vertical direction. The first elastic body 44 and the second elastic body 45 may extend from the top to the bottom of the bag portion 40, or from the bottom to the top of the bag portion 40.

[0039] The first elastic body 44 and the second elastic body 45 may be made of an elastic material, and their composition is not limited as long as it does not adversely affect pressure ulcers. Examples of the first elastic body 44 and the second elastic body 45 include sponge, rubber, and the like.

[0040] The air mattress 100 according to this embodiment has a first elastic body 44, which prevents at least a portion of the bag portion 40 located on the side where the user A's weight is applied from being completely crushed and stopping the flow of air. The first elastic body 44 assists the flow of air within the bag portion 40. In order to more efficiently achieve the above effect, it is preferable that the first elastic body 44 be positioned in the upper part of the bag portion 40 corresponding to the position adjacent to the first cell 51 and the second cell 52, and in the upper part of the bag portion 40 corresponding to the position adjacent to the second cell 52 and the third cell 53.

[0041] Furthermore, the air mattress 100 according to this embodiment, by having a second elastic body 45, can prevent at least a portion of the bag portion 40 located on the side where the user A's weight is applied from being completely crushed and stopping the flow of air, and can also prevent the upper and lower portions of the bag portion 40 from sticking together, thereby ensuring that air can flow reliably within the first bag portion 41, second bag portion 42, and third bag portion 43 located above the first cell 51, second cell 52, and third cell 53. The second elastic body 45 assists the flow of air within the bag portion 40. In order to more efficiently achieve the above effects, it is preferable that the second elastic body 45 be positioned in the upper bag portion 40, corresponding to the center position in the longitudinal direction of the first cell 51, second cell 52, and third cell 53.

[0042] As shown in Figure 2, the second elastic body 45 preferably extends from the bag portion 40 to a part of the first flow channel portion 31, and preferably extends from the bag portion 40 to a part of the second flow channel portion 32. In this way, air flowing through the first flow channel portion 31 and the second flow channel portion 32 can be efficiently drawn into the bag portion 40.

[0043] Furthermore, since the first flow channel section 31 and the second flow channel section 32 are provided at both ends in the shorter direction, and no weight is applied when user A lies supine, air can flow through the first flow channel section 31 and the second flow channel section 32 without the need to provide the first elastic body 44 and the second elastic body 45 within the first flow channel section 31 and the second flow channel section 32, respectively.

[0044] The first flow channel section 31 preferably has a first flow channel stopper 33 inside that blocks the flow of air in the longitudinal direction. The second flow channel section 32 preferably has a second flow channel stopper 34 inside that blocks the flow of air in the longitudinal direction. The first flow channel stopper 33 and the second flow channel stopper 34 may partially block the flow of air in the longitudinal direction or may completely block it. In this way, it is possible to facilitate the flow of air sequentially from the first flow channel section 31 to the first bag section 41 and the second flow channel section 32, from the second flow channel section 32 to the second bag section 42 and the first flow channel section 31, and further from the first flow channel section 31 to the third bag section 43 and the second flow channel section 32.

[0045] Furthermore, the first flow channel section 31 may have a third flow channel stopper 35 at the end opposite to the end of the first flow channel section 31 to which the first passage 21 is connected. Similarly, the second flow channel section 32 may have a fourth flow channel stopper 36 at the end opposite to the end of the second flow channel section 32 to which the third passage 23 is connected. The third flow channel stopper 35 prevents air in the first flow channel section 31 from being discharged to the outside, and the fourth flow channel stopper 36 prevents air in the second flow channel section 32 from being discharged to the outside. In this way, air can be efficiently circulated throughout the entire interior of the air mattress 100.

[0046] Furthermore, the first flow stopper 33 and the second flow stopper 34 are positioned within the first flow section 31 and the first flow section 32, which correspond to adjacent positions among the multiple bag sections 40 arranged in the longitudinal direction. For example, the first flow stopper 33 is positioned within the first flow section 31, which corresponds to the position where the first bag section 41 and the second bag section 42 are adjacent. The second flow stopper 34 is positioned within the second flow section 32, which corresponds to the position where the second bag section 42 and the third bag section 43 are adjacent.

[0047] The bag portion 40 is made up of at least one of the group consisting of a water-resistant and breathable sheet, with at least a portion of the surface that is pressed against by the user when the user lies down being made of a water-resistant and breathable sheet. In this way, heat and moisture from the surface pressed against by the user can be released into or out of the bag portion 40.

[0048] As described above, the air mattress 100 according to this embodiment preferably further includes a third passage 23 through which air is supplied from the second flow path section 32 and supplied to the supply section 10. The supply section 10 preferably circulates air through the first passage 21, the first flow path section 31, the bag section 40, the second flow path section 32, and the third passage 23. In other words, it is preferable that the air circulating within the air mattress 100 according to this embodiment is circulated.

[0049] The air mattress 100 according to this embodiment preferably further comprises a temperature measuring unit 80 for measuring the temperature of the circulating air and a humidity measuring unit 81 for measuring the humidity, and a feedback control unit 82 for providing feedback according to the temperature and humidity from the temperature measuring unit 80 and the humidity measuring unit 81. In this way, the temperature and humidity of the circulating air can be determined, which is effective in preventing pressure ulcers. The feedback control unit 82 may be configured using hardware resources.

[0050] In this embodiment, it is preferable to provide means for heating and cooling the air circulating in at least one of the first passage 21, the second passage 22, and the third passage 23 of the air mattress 100. Furthermore, it is preferable to provide means for humidifying and dehumidifying the air circulating in at least one of the first passage 21, the second passage 22, and the third passage 23 of the air mattress 100. In this way, temperature and humidity can be controlled, which is effective in preventing pressure ulcers. In addition, since air can be circulated within the bag portion 40 of the air mattress 100 according to this embodiment, the efficiency of controlling the temperature and humidity of the body surface can be greatly improved.

[0051] Heating methods include electric heating elements, electric heaters, a heat supply unit 10 that generates waste heat, and adiabatic compression. Relative humidity can also be reduced by using heaters or adiabatic compression.

[0052] Cooling methods include cooling fins using Peltier elements. If condensation occurs, the water can be removed.

[0053] Methods of humidification include humidifiers.

[0054] Methods for dehumidification include cartridges containing materials such as calcium chloride, silica gel, and zeolite. When these materials become saturated, the moisture contained within can be evaporated by heating. Alternatively, when the contained materials become saturated, the cartridge can be replaced.

[0055] Furthermore, it is preferable to control the temperature and humidity by combining means for heating and cooling, means for humidifying and dehumidifying, a temperature measuring unit 80, a humidity measuring unit 81, and a feedback control unit 82. In this way, precise temperature and humidity control can be achieved.

[0056] Based on the above, according to the embodiments of the present invention, even if a part of the mattress on the surface where the user's weight is applied is compressed, air can be circulated and pressure distribution can be achieved.

[0057] The bag portion 40 has a first elastic body 44 extending in the short direction and thickness direction inside, which helps to facilitate the circulation of air within the bag portion 40.

[0058] The bag portion 40 has a second elastic body 45 inside that extends in the short direction and thickness direction and is thinner than the first elastic body 44. This prevents at least a portion of the bag portion 40 that is pressed by the user A's weight from being completely crushed and stopping the flow of air, thus ensuring that air can circulate reliably within the first bag portion 41, the second bag portion 42, and the third bag portion 43.

[0059] The second elastic body 45 extends from the bag portion 40 into a part of the first flow channel portion 31 and the second flow channel portion 32, thereby enabling efficient flow of air circulating in the first flow channel portion 31 and the second flow channel portion 32 into the bag portion 40.

[0060] The bag sections 40 are arranged in multiple locations along the longitudinal direction, allowing air to circulate efficiently even if a portion of the mattress on the side where the user's weight is applied is compressed.

[0061] The first flow channel section 31 has a first flow channel stopper 33 inside that at least partially blocks the flow of air in the longitudinal direction, and the second flow channel section 32 has a second flow channel stopper 34 inside that at least partially blocks the flow of air in the longitudinal direction, thereby allowing air to flow sequentially from the first flow channel section 31 to the first bag section 41 and the second flow channel section 32, from the second flow channel section 32 to the second bag section 42 and the first flow channel section 31, and further from the first flow channel section 31 to the third bag section 43 and the second flow channel section 32.

[0062] The first flow stopper 33 and the second flow stopper 34 are positioned within the first passage 21 and the second passage 22, which correspond to adjacent positions among the multiple bag sections 40 arranged in the longitudinal direction, thereby enabling efficient air circulation within the bag section 40.

[0063] The supply unit 10 is further equipped with a third passage 23 that supplies air from the second flow channel section 32 to the supply unit 10, and by circulating air through the first passage 21, the first flow channel section 31, the bag section 40, the second flow channel section 32, and the third passage 23, it becomes easier to control the temperature and humidity of the air inside the bag section 40.

[0064] By further including a temperature measuring unit 80 for measuring the temperature of the circulating air and a feedback control unit 82 for providing feedback according to the temperature from the temperature measuring unit 80, the temperature of the circulating air can be monitored, making it effective in preventing pressure ulcers.

[0065] By further including a humidity measuring unit 81 for measuring the humidity of the circulating air and a feedback control unit 82 for providing feedback according to the humidity from the humidity measuring unit 81, the humidity of the circulating air can be monitored, making it effective in preventing pressure ulcers.

[0066] The embodiments and their modifications described above are examples that embody the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and modifications. For example, the present invention also includes the addition, deletion, or modification of some components or processes in the embodiments and modifications described above. Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above can be implemented in combination with each other.

[0067] The present invention includes the following embodiments.

[0068] (Note 1) A supply unit that supplies air, The first passage and the second passage through which air is supplied from the supply unit, A first flow channel section is provided at both ends in the short direction, extends in the longitudinal direction, and is supplied with air from the supply section via a first passage, and a second flow channel section is supplied with air via the first flow channel section, At least a portion of the surface that is pressed against the user when the user lies down is made of a breathable sheet, air is supplied from the first channel and air flows at least in the shorter direction, and a bag portion is provided between the first channel and the second channel, A plurality of cells are arranged on the lower side of the bag portion from one end to the other in the longitudinal direction, extending in the short direction, and supplied with air from the supply unit via the second passage, A pressure control unit that controls the pressure in the plurality of cells, Equipped with, The pressures within the plurality of cells include a first pressure and a second pressure or lower that is lower than the first pressure. The pressure control unit controls the pressure in one or more of the plurality of cells to the first pressure, controls the pressure in the cells other than the cell with the first pressure to the second pressure or lower, and sequentially switches between the cells that have the first pressure and the second pressure or lower among the plurality of cells. An air mattress in which, when a user lies down, air is circulated in at least a portion of the bag portion on the cells among the plurality of cells where the pressure is below the second pressure.

[0069] (Note 2) The air mattress according to Appendix 1, wherein the pressure control unit sets the pressure in two or more cells among the plurality of cells as the first pressure, sets the pressure in the cells other than the cells with the first pressure as the second pressure or lower, and sequentially switches between the cells among the plurality of cells that have the first pressure and the cells with the second pressure or lower.

[0070] (Note 3) The plurality of cells include a first cell, a second cell, and a third cell. The pressure control unit, A first mode in which the pressure in the second cell and the third cell is set to a first pressure and the pressure in the first cell is set to a second pressure or lower, which is lower than the first pressure, A second mode in which the pressure in the first cell and the third cell is set to the first pressure and the pressure in the second cell is set to the second pressure or less, A third mode in which the pressure in the first cell and the second cell is set to the first pressure and the pressure in the third cell is set to the second pressure or less, At least do the following: An air mattress according to Appendix 1 or 2, wherein air is circulated in at least a portion of the bag portion on the first cell, the second cell, and the third cell, such that the pressure is below the second pressure when the user lies down.

[0071] (Note 4) The air mattress according to any one of the appendices 1 to 3, wherein the bag portion has a first elastic body extending in the short direction and thickness direction inside.

[0072] (Note 5) The air mattress according to Appendix 4, wherein the bag portion has a second elastic body inside that extends in the short direction and thickness direction and is thinner than the first elastic body.

[0073] (Note 6) The air mattress described in Appendix 5, wherein the second elastic body extends from the bag portion to the first flow channel portion and a part of the second flow channel portion.

[0074] (Note 7) The bag portion is an air mattress according to any one of the appendices 1 to 6 arranged in the longitudinal direction.

[0075] (Note 8) The first flow channel section has a first flow channel stopper inside which at least a portion of the longitudinal airflow is blocked, The air mattress according to Appendix 7, wherein the second flow channel section has a second flow channel stopper inside which at least a portion of the longitudinal air flow is blocked.

[0076] (Note 9) The air mattress according to Appendix 8, wherein the first and second flow stoppers are positioned within the first and second passages, which correspond to adjacent positions among the plurality of bag portions arranged in the longitudinal direction.

[0077] (Note 10) The system further includes a third passage through which air is supplied from the second flow path and supplied to the supply section, The supply unit circulates air through the first passage, the first flow path section, the bag section, the second flow path section, and the third passage, as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 9.

[0078] (Note 11) A temperature measuring unit for measuring the temperature of the circulating air, A feedback control unit for providing feedback according to the temperature from the temperature measuring unit, An air mattress as described in Appendix 10, further equipped with the features mentioned above.

[0079] (Note 12) A humidity measuring unit for measuring the humidity of the circulating air, A feedback control unit for providing feedback according to the humidity measured by the humidity measurement unit, An air mattress as described in Appendix 10 or 11, further comprising the above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0080] 10 supply section, 21 1st aisle, 22 2nd aisle, 23 3rd aisle, 31 First channel section, 32 Second channel section, 33 First channel stopper, 34 Second channel stopper, 35 Third channel stopper, 36 Fourth channel stopper, 40 Bag section, 41 First bag section, 41a (one end of the first bag section), 41b (the other end of the first bag section), 42 Second bag section, 42a (one end of the second bag section), 42b (the other end of the second bag section), 43 Third bag section, 43a (one end of the third bag section), 43b (the other end of the third bag section), 44 First elastic body, 45 Second elastic body, 50 Multiple cells, 51 First cell, 52 Second cell, 53 Third cell, 54 Head cell, 60 Pressure control unit, 61 Pressure sensor, 70 Solenoid valve, 71 First solenoid valve, 72 Second solenoid valve, 73 Third solenoid valve, 74 External solenoid valve, 80 Temperature measuring unit, 81 Humidity measuring unit, 82 Feedback control unit, 90 Upper fabric, 91 Lower fabric, 92 Pillow, 100 Air Mattress, A User, T1 First Mode, T2 Second Mode, T3 Third Mode, P1 First Pressure, P2 Second Pressure

Claims

1. A supply unit that supplies air, The first passage and the second passage through which air is supplied from the supply unit, A first flow channel section is provided at both ends in the short direction, extends in the longitudinal direction, and is supplied with air from the supply section via the first passage, and a second flow channel section is supplied with air via the first flow channel section, At least a portion of the surface that is pressed against the user when the user lies down is made of a breathable sheet, air is supplied from the first channel and air flows at least in the shorter direction, and a bag portion is provided between the first channel and the second channel, A plurality of cells are arranged on the lower side of the bag portion from one end to the other in the longitudinal direction, extending in the short direction, and supplied with air from the supply unit via the second passage, A pressure control unit that controls the pressure in the plurality of cells, Equipped with, The pressures within the plurality of cells include a first pressure and a second pressure or lower that is lower than the first pressure. The pressure control unit controls the pressure in one or more of the plurality of cells to the first pressure, controls the pressure in the cells other than the cell with the first pressure to the second pressure or lower, and sequentially switches between the cells among the plurality of cells that have the first pressure and the second pressure or lower, and executes this process. An air mattress in which, when a user lies down, air is circulated in at least a portion of the bag portion on the cells among the plurality of cells where the pressure is below the second pressure.

2. The air mattress according to claim 1, wherein the pressure control unit sets the pressure in two or more cells among the plurality of cells as the first pressure, sets the pressure in the cells other than the cells with the first pressure as the second pressure or lower, and sequentially switches between the cells among the plurality of cells that have the first pressure and the cells with the second pressure or lower.

3. The plurality of cells include a first cell, a second cell, and a third cell, The pressure control unit, A first mode in which the pressure in the second cell and the third cell is set to a first pressure and the pressure in the first cell is set to a second pressure or lower, which is lower than the first pressure, A second mode in which the pressure in the first cell and the third cell is set to the first pressure and the pressure in the second cell is set to the second pressure or less, A third mode in which the pressure in the first cell and the second cell is set to the first pressure and the pressure in the third cell is set to the second pressure or less, At least do the following: The air mattress according to claim 1 or 2, wherein when a user lies down, air is circulated in at least a portion of the bag portion on the first cell, the second cell, and the third cell such that the pressure is below the second pressure.

4. The air mattress according to claim 1, wherein the bag portion has a first elastic body extending in the short direction and thickness direction inside.

5. The air mattress according to claim 4, wherein the bag portion has a second elastic body inside that extends in the short direction and thickness direction and is thinner than the first elastic body.

6. The air mattress according to claim 5, wherein the second elastic body extends from the bag portion to the first flow channel portion and a part of the second flow channel portion.

7. The air mattress according to claim 1, wherein the bag portion is arranged in multiple locations in the longitudinal direction.

8. The first flow channel section has a first flow channel stopper inside which at least a portion of the longitudinal airflow is blocked, The air mattress according to claim 7, wherein the second flow channel portion has a second flow channel stopper inside which at least a portion of the longitudinal airflow is blocked.

9. The air mattress according to claim 8, wherein the first flow stopper and the second flow stopper are arranged in the first passage and the second passage, which correspond to adjacent positions among the plurality of bag portions arranged in the longitudinal direction.

10. The system further includes a third passage through which air is supplied from the second flow path and supplied to the supply section, The air mattress according to claim 1, wherein the supply unit circulates air through the first passage, the first flow path section, the bag section, the second flow path section, and the third passage.

11. A temperature measuring unit for measuring the temperature of the circulating air, A feedback control unit for providing feedback according to the temperature from the temperature measuring unit, The air mattress according to claim 10, further comprising the above.

12. A humidity measuring unit for measuring the humidity of the circulating air, A feedback control unit for providing feedback according to the humidity measured by the humidity measurement unit, The air mattress according to claim 10, further comprising the above.

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