A device that changes a person's orientation.

Abstract

A device for changing the orientation of a person on a bed mattress, comprising one or more first expandable bodies capable of providing cushioning between the top sheet and the mattress in a first portion of the mattress, and one or more second expandable bodies capable of providing cushioning between the top sheet and the mattress in a second portion of the mattress, and configured to hold the person in a controlled position on the mattress.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for changing a person's orientation on a mattress of a bed, and a bed equipped with this device. This bed can be a profiling bed.

Background Art

[0002] For example, in a caregiving environment, it is known to provide a bed for a person to lie on. People with neurological diseases such as Parkinson's disease may require assistance with movement at a certain stage. For people with restricted movement or those who need to spend a long time in bed, there is a possibility of developing pressure ulcers, and manual repositioning can reduce this. However, this requires time and effort. The present invention was devised in such a situation.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0003] In a first aspect, a device for changing a person's orientation on a mattress of a bed is provided. Usually, this device changes the person's orientation at a controlled position on the mattress of the bed and is configured to hold the person at a controlled position on the mattress. The device may comprise one or more first expandable bodies and one or more second expandable bodies. Usually, the expansion and contraction of the expandable bodies are utilized to change the person's orientation or rotate the person. Usually, the one or more first expandable bodies and the one or more second expandable bodies can overcome the inertia of a person lying (in a generally horizontal posture) on the mattress of the bed.

[0004] The controlled position on the mattress may, but does not necessarily, be the center of the mattress. That is, the device may be configured to hold a person in the center of the mattress. This means that the person lies on the mattress along its length, with the mattress surface area available on both their left and right sides. The amount of mattress surface area available on both sides of a person lying on the mattress may, but does not necessarily, be approximately equal. The controlled position may also be the person's current position.

[0005] Turning a person on a bed mattress means rotating a person lying on the bed around their longitudinal axis. For example, turning a person on a bed mattress means turning a person lying on their side onto their back or facing the opposite side. Turning a person on a bed mattress can result in them being turned by at least 90°, or at least 135°, or at least 180°, or at least 225°, or at least 270°. Turning a person on a bed mattress can result in them being turned by less than 270°, less than 180°, less than 135°, or less than 90°.

[0006] By changing a person's orientation at a controlled position on the bed mattress, that person can be turned around on the bed.

[0007] A second aspect of the present invention provides a device for repositioning a person on a bed mattress. The device comprises one or more first expandables that can provide cushioning between the top sheet and the mattress in a first portion (e.g., half) of the mattress, and one or more second expandables that can provide cushioning between the top sheet and the mattress in a second portion (e.g., half) of the mattress. Hereinafter, "expandable" is interpreted to include both a singular expandable and a plurality of expandables that may be adjacent to each other. The first portion and the second portion (e.g., half) are typically spaced apart laterally. Thus, each portion is on the opposite side of the person lying along the bed when in use. The device may comprise a mattress. The mattress may comprise one or more first expandables and one or more second expandables.

[0008] Those skilled in the art will understand that a portion of a mattress means a portion of the upper surface area of ​​the mattress on which a person using the bed lies. A person may lie between a first portion and a second portion. A person may lie on at least a portion of the first portion and a second portion. A person may lie between one or more first expandables and one or more second expandables. For example, if the expandables are deflated, a person may lie on at least a portion of one or more first expandables and at least a portion of one or more second expandables.

[0009] The expansion, e.g., inflating, or contraction, e.g., shrinking, or contraction of one while expanding the other, causes vertical movement, thereby allowing a person to rotate and change orientation. One or more second (or first) expandable bodies may be held in an expanded or contracted state simultaneously, thereby facilitating a person's rotation while maintaining control of their position on the bed mattress. In this case, the sheet may slide (displace) relative to the expanding expandable body, allowing the person to change orientation while maintaining contact with the same part of the sheet, thereby avoiding large slips. This also facilitates control of the person's position on the bed mattress.

[0010] One or more first extensibles may be extensible (e.g., inflatable) independently of one or more second extensibles. One or more second extensibles may be extensible (e.g., inflatable) independently of one or more first extensibles.

[0011] If one or more first expandables comprises multiple first expandables, the multiple expandables may expand together. The multiple expandables may be in fluid communication. The multiple first expandables may be expandable independently of each other.

[0012] If one or more second expandables comprises multiple second expandables, the multiple second expandables may be fluidly connected and expand together. The multiple second expandables may be expandable independently of each other.

[0013] Mattresses typically have thickness. Expandable bodies, such as those forming part of one or more first expandable bodies, or part of one or more second expandable bodies, or both, may extend over part or all of the mattress thickness when unexpanded.

[0014] The device may further include a top sheet that extends across the entire mattress when the device is fixed to the bed. This allows the top sheet to move across one or more first expandables and one or more second expandables. The mattress may be part of the bed. The mattress may be part of the device.

[0015] The cushion may be an inflatable cushion. One or more first expandable bodies may include one or more mechanically or chemically expandable bags.

[0016] One or more first inflatable bodies may include one or more inflation chambers, for example, one or more inflation bags. An inflation chamber may include one or more pockets. One or more first inflatable bodies may include multiple inflation chambers. One or more first inflatable bodies may include a first inflation chamber within a second inflation chamber. The first inflation chamber may be inflatable independently of the second inflation chamber. The second inflation chamber may be inflatable independently of the first inflation chamber.

[0017] One or more second expandables are typically similar to one or more first expandables. One or more second expandables may be identical to one or more first expandables. One or more second expandables may be mirror images of one or more first expandables. One or more second expandables may comprise one or more mechanically or chemically expandable bags. One or more second expandables may comprise one or more inflation chambers. One or more second expandables may comprise multiple inflation chambers.

[0018] One or more first expandables and one or more second expandables can be joined longitudinally along the length of the mattress, or they can be separated from each other longitudinally by gaps along the length of the mattress. The length of the mattress extends in the direction in which a person lies on the mattress.

[0019] One or more first expandable bodies may provide an inflated cushion when gas, usually air, is supplied to the expansion chamber. The air is supplied at an overpressure (e.g., 0.5 bar above atmospheric pressure).

[0020] One or more first expandable bodies may include decompression means for deflating one or more first expandable bodies from an inflated or partially inflated state. The decompression means may include a valve.

[0021] One or more first expandable bodies may include an inflator bag. The inflator bag may have an essentially rectangular outer shape. The corners of the rectangular outer shape may be curved, but do not necessarily have to be curved.

[0022] One or more first expandable bodies may be stitched. One or more first expandable bodies may have a first layer forming a first side of the expandable body and a second layer forming a second side of the expandable body, whereby a seam joins the first layer and the second layer. The seam may be provided around the outer edges of the first layer and the second layer. The seam may be a single seam.

[0023] One or more second expandable bodies typically have the same structure and function as one or more first expandable bodies.

[0024] Each of one or more first expandable bodies and one or more second expandable bodies is preferably waterproof. Each of one or more first expandable bodies and one or more second expandable bodies is preferably robust.

[0025] Each of one or more first expandable bodies and one or more second expandable bodies should typically withstand a plurality of expansion and contraction cycles.

[0026] Each of one or more first expandable bodies and one or more second expandable bodies preferably has no stretchability. By having a non-stretchable expandable body, the energy loss when the expandable body is expanded can be minimized.

[0027] The top sheet is displaceable across one or more first expandable bodies and one or more second expandable bodies. The displaceability of the top sheet is typically in the direction of displacement in the width direction of the bed.

[0028] The top sheet may have a slippery surface on one side. This is to reduce the friction between one or more of the first and second expandable bodies and the top sheet when the top sheet is displaced on the expandable body. The sheet may have a lower friction surface on one side than on the other side. The low friction surface may be the lower side during use. The other high friction surface may be the upper side during use.

[0029] The surfaces of one or more first expandable bodies intended to contact the top sheet are usually slippery. Similarly, the surfaces of one or more second expandable bodies intended to contact the top sheet are also usually slippery. This is to reduce the friction between one or more of the first and second expandable bodies and the top sheet when the top sheet is displaced over the expandable body.

[0030] The top sheet may have a high tensile stress.

[0031] The top sheet may have a surface with a high friction texture on a second side. The second side of the top sheet is the side that may come into contact with a person on the bed. It is generally desirable that a person contacting the surface on the second side of the top sheet does not slide or slip on the sheet. This is particularly desirable during the process of operating the device to change a person's orientation.

[0032] The top sheet may have a waterproof function. For example, the top sheet may have resistance to the intrusion of water or liquid. This has the effect of reducing the soiling of the device and / or the bed by liquids such as sweat or urine passing through the device.

[0033] The top sheet may have breathability. This has a beneficial effect on the comfort of a person on the bed.

[0034] The device may include a first elongated retainer. The first elongated retainer may serve to hold the top sheet along the first side of the bed. The first elongated retainer may be for mounting on the first side of the bed. The first elongated retainer may be for mounting on the outside of the bed, for example, on the floor on which the bed is placed or fixed.

[0035] The device also typically includes a second elongated retainer. The second elongated retainer is usually for holding the top sheet along the second side of the bed, so that when the device is mounted on the bed, the top sheet is held on the mattress by the first and second elongated retainers. The elongated retainers may be detachably mounted on the bed's side rails. Alternatively, the elongated retainers may be detachably mounted on the outside of the bed.

[0036] The first elongated retainer and the second elongated retainer can each be attached to the outside of the bed, for example, to the floor on which the bed is placed or fixed.

[0037] Each of the first and second elongated retainers can be designed to be sized to form a safety barrier that prevents a person lying on a mattress from falling out of bed.

[0038] The apparatus may further include a top sheet supply system that can be configured to hold the top sheet material on a first side of the bed while simultaneously winding or unwinding the top sheet on a second side of the bed.

[0039] The top sheet supply system may comprise a first roller system extending along the length of the mattress or bed. The first roller system typically comprises a first roller. The first roller system typically holds the top sheet on a first side of the mattress. The first roller system can supply the top sheet material in the width direction toward the mattress. The first roller system is lockable, thereby preventing the top sheet material from being supplied in the width direction toward the mattress. Furthermore, the first roller system can wind the top sheet material away from the mattress in the width direction by winding it up and wrapping it around the roller as needed.

[0040] The top sheet feeding system may include a second roller system extending along the length of the mattress or bed. The second roller system typically includes a second roller. The second roller system typically holds the top sheet on the second side of the mattress. The second roller system can feed the top sheet material toward the mattress in the width direction. The second roller system is lockable, thereby preventing the top sheet material from being fed toward the mattress in the width direction. Furthermore, the second roller system can, if necessary, wind the top sheet material and wrap it around the roller, thereby winding the top sheet material laterally away from the mattress.

[0041] The top sheet supply system may comprise a first roller system and a second roller system. The first roller system may be controlled in coordination with the second roller system. The first roller system may be controlled in conjunction with the expansion of the expandable body. The device may be operated so that one of the first or second roller systems is locked, and the other is operated to wind the top sheet material onto or unwind it from the roller. This operation makes it easier to hold a person on the bed in a roughly centered position when turning. The first and second rollers can also wind and unwind the top sheet material in coordination. A person may be able to turn in place more advantageously than being rolled.

[0042] Each of the first and second roller systems may be attached to the bed. Alternatively, each of the first and second roller systems may be attached to the outside of the bed, and the top sheet on the bed may be displaceable over one or more first expandable bodies and one or more second expandable bodies. For example, when in use, the bed may be attached to the floor of the room in which the bed is placed. Under these conditions, each of the first and second roller systems may be attached to the floor or the side wall of the room, and the top sheet may be displaceable over the bed.

[0043] A top sheet conveying system comprising a first roller, a second roller, and a top sheet can be used to transport a person to the center of the bed when they get onto it.

[0044] In an alternative configuration, the top sheet can take the form of a closed loop. In this configuration, the top sheet loops around the mattress and one or more first expandables and one or more second expandables. By rotating the looped top sheet around its central axis, the top sheet can be continuously displaced over one or more first expandables and one or more second expandables.

[0045] The device may further include fixing means for securing the device to a bed.

[0046] The fastening means may secure the device to a bed by fastening one or more of the first and second expandable bodies to the bed, for example, to the mattress of the bed. The fastening means may extend along the edges of the expandable bodies, for example, the edges of one or more first expandable bodies, the edges of one or more second expandable bodies, or the edges of both the first and second expandable bodies. The fastening means may be positioned along the edges of the expandable bodies to be positioned toward the edge of the mattress. The fastening means may include hook-and-loop connections. The fastening means may include popper fasteners. The fastening means may include straps that are fixedly attached to the device, for example, the expandable body, and serve to tie the device to the bed, for example, the mattress. For example, the straps may extend around the mattress and secure the device to the mattress. Multiple straps may also be provided.

[0047] The fixing means restrains the expandable body during expansion, for example, during inflation, and maintains its connection with the mattress.

[0048] One or more first expandable bodies may include an expansion chamber.

[0049] By providing an air supply device, pressurized air can be supplied to the expansion chamber, causing it to expand. The expansion chamber can be expanded and then deflated. Therefore, the expansion chamber can be easily repeatedly switched between an expanded and deflated configuration.

[0050] The expansion chamber may be made of polychloroprene such as polyurethane, polyester, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or neoprene. Each of these materials has the advantage of being biocompatible. They are also less prone to static electricity and are waterproof.

[0051] The inflation chamber may be biocompatible. The inflation chamber may be less prone to static electricity. The inflation chamber may be waterproof.

[0052] Each of the one or more first expandables and the one or more second expandables may be a single-cavity expansion chamber.

[0053] The inflation chamber may be sewn together. The inflation chamber may have a first layer forming a first side of the chamber and a second layer forming a second side, with a seam joining the first and second layers. The seam may be present around the outer edges of the first and second layers. The inflation chamber may have a single seam extending along the length of the chamber.

[0054] One or more first expandable bodies may comprise multiple expansion chambers. For example, each of the multiple expansion chambers forming one or more first expandable bodies may be individually dimensioned, thereby constituting a desired shape for one or more first expandable bodies in expanded or inflated form. This also applies to one or more second expandable bodies.

[0055] Multiple expansion chambers may be arranged in a layered structure.

[0056] The expression that multiple chambers are arranged in a layered structure means that, for example, a first expansion chamber is covered by a second expansion chamber, and the second expansion chamber is further covered by a third expansion chamber. The second expansion chamber may completely cover the first expansion chamber. The second expansion chamber may partially cover the first expansion chamber. For example, the second expansion chamber may have a width narrower than the width of the first expansion chamber it is in contact with. The third expansion chamber may have a width narrower than the width of the second expansion chamber it is in contact with.

[0057] Multiple layered chambers forming an expandable body may be substantially aligned along the edges of each chamber. Multiple layered chambers forming an expandable body may be substantially aligned along the side edges of each chamber.

[0058] Each of the multiple inflation chambers may have a flap. Typically, the flap is non-inflatable and functions as a structure that helps to secure the inflation chamber to the surface on which the expandable is positioned. Such a surface may be the mattress of the bed on which the device is placed. Such a surface may also be the base sheet of the device, which is intended to be placed on the mattress. Such a surface may also be the flap of the inflation chamber. The flap may have mounting means for attaching the inflation chamber to the surface. The expandable may have a flap. Each of the multiple inflation chambers of the expandable may be attached to a flap.

[0059] One or more second expandables typically have a structure similar to that of one or more first expandables.

[0060] The device may include additional expandables, such as an inflation chamber, which are positioned to prevent the knees of a person lying on the bed from colliding with them during inflation or expansion. These additional expandables may be part of one or more first and / or second expandables.

[0061] The device may include additional expandable bodies, such as an inflation chamber, which are positioned to function as a support for the head of a person lying in bed. These additional expandable bodies may be part of one or more first and / or second expandable bodies.

[0062] The device may include one or more additional inflatables, such as one or more inflation chambers. These work in conjunction with one or more first inflatables and one or more second inflatables when turning a person in bed. These additional inflatables can support parts of the person, such as the head and shoulders, thighs, and legs. During rotation of a person in bed, these additional inflatables can assist the rotation and support parts of the person, such as the head and shoulders, thighs, and legs, during the rotation. This results in a more natural rolling motion of the body. Inflation of an inflation chamber, such as an airbag, may cause another inflation chamber to move (e.g., displace or rotate).

[0063] The device may include additional expandable bodies, such as inflation chambers, positioned on top of one or more expandable bodies to provide comfort for a person lying in bed.

[0064] The inflation chamber can be configured to roll itself in during inflation and / or rotate around an axis. This helps to roll a person on the bed by providing increased rolling force.

[0065] The apparatus may further include an air supply device that supplies air to each of the one or more first expandable bodies and each of the one or more second expandable bodies. The air supply is typically controlled by a controller.

[0066] The air supply system may include a pump, such as a diaphragm air pump. The air supply system may be housed in a control box. The control box may be installed so as to hook onto the edge of the bed.

[0067] Air may be supplied to the inflatable to partially or completely inflate it.

[0068] Air can be supplied from air sources such as mains supply or built-in supply. Air can also be supplied through a control box. An external air supply can supply pressurized air to the control box, from which air is sent to the expandable body in a controllable manner.

[0069] The device may further include vents for controllably releasing air from the airbag.

[0070] Each airbag may be provided with a vent for the controlled release of air. Each inflatable body may be provided with a controllable valve from which air can be released. The inflated cushion can be controlled to deflate in this manner.

[0071] An inflated airbag can be deflated slowly and controllably, for example, over 30 seconds or more, or rapidly and controllably, for example, in 15 seconds or less. Rapid deflating may be motorized, thereby controlling the rate of deflating by releasing air in a controlled manner. In an emergency, rapid deflating can also be initiated by, for example, pulling an emergency code.

[0072] The device may be configured so that the top sheet supply system works in cooperation with the air supply device and / or the vents of the expandable body.

[0073] For example, if a controller inflates an expandable body on one side of the bed to change the orientation of a person lying on the bed, the controller may arrange for the top sheet supply system to hold the top sheet material on the same side of the bed while simultaneously unwinding the top sheet material from the roll on the opposite side of the bed. Combining the inflation of the expandable body on one side of the bed with the lateral displacement of the top sheet material has the effect of changing the orientation of a person while keeping them in a controlled position on the mattress.

[0074] When the controller deflates the inflatable body and turns the person on the mattress from a lateral position to a supine position (for example), the controller can also control the top sheet supply system to retract the slack top sheet material. This keeps the top sheet taut on the mattress.

[0075] The apparatus may further include a base sheet, which positions one or more first expandable bodies and one or more second expandable bodies in the layer between the base sheet and the top sheet.

[0076] One or more first expandables and one or more second expandables may be attached to a base sheet. For example, the first and second expandables may be attached to the base sheet by hook-and-loop connections. The first and second expandables may be plastic-welded to the base sheet. Alternative fastening means, such as snap fasteners, are also possible.

[0077] The device may further include one or more sensors. One or more sensors may be one or more temperature sensors. Temperature sensors allow for sensing a person's body temperature, enabling a determination of whether the person is too warm or too cold. One or more sensors may be one or more humidity sensors. Humidity sensors allow for sensing moisture; for example, incontinence can be detected with one or more such sensors. One or more sensors may be one or more pressure sensors. One or more pressure sensors can sense pressure at one or more positions on the bed, enabling a determination of the need to adjust the position of the person on the bed; for example, sensing the position of the person on the bed allows for centering the person on the bed. One or more sensors may be one or more weight sensors, allowing for sensing or monitoring the weight of the person on the bed, for example, over time. One or more sensors may be a combination of temperature, humidity, pressure, or weight sensors.

[0078] One or more sensors may be located within the top sheet. One or more sensors may be located within the sensor sheet. The sensor sheet may be located between the top sheet adjacent to one side of the sensor sheet and between one or more first expandables and one or more second expandables adjacent to the other side of the sensor sheet.

[0079] The control of the device by the controller may be affected by one or more signals from one or more sensors. For example, if one or more pressure sensors do not detect a person on the bed, one or more first expandable bodies may be retracted, and one or more second expandable bodies may also be retracted.

[0080] According to a third aspect of the present invention, this specification discloses a bed comprising a device according to the first or second aspect. The device may include a mattress.

[0081] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, this specification discloses a method for operating a bed according to a third aspect, the method comprising extending one or more first expandable bodies and simultaneously supplying a top sheet to be laterally displaced on the bed, thereby changing the orientation of a person in a controlled position on the bed. This method allows changing the orientation of a person from a supine position to a lateral position. It is also possible to change the orientation of a person from a prone position to a supine or lateral position. The person may be an obese patient.

[0082] This method may include the step of attaching one or more sheets, such as a top sheet, to the apparatus using a hook-and-loop system.

[0083] Typically, the top sheet is supplied to displace in the width direction. The width direction is generally perpendicular to the direction in which a person lies on the bed. Typically, the top sheet is supplied to displace over one or more first expandable bodies and one or more second expandable bodies. The top sheet may be unwound from a roller system. The roller system may be driven controllly to unwind the top sheet.

[0084] A first step of this method may include partially expanding, for example, inflating, one or more first expandable bodies and one or more second expandable bodies to support a person in a supine position on two periphery sides of that person. A second step may include further expanding, for example, inflating, one or more first expandable bodies to change the orientation of the person from supine to lateral. In this way, the orientation of the person's body can be changed while simultaneously supporting the person on the bed. The partially expanded expandable bodies provide support to prevent the person from falling out of bed. This support is provided in a safe and comfortable manner.

[0085] This method may include controlling the supply of top sheet material across the mattress as one or more first expandable bodies expand to hold a person in a controlled position on the mattress.

[0086] The controller can control the displacement of the top sheet material. For example, the top sheet material on one side of the bed can be unwound from a roller on that side so that it can be displaced on the mattress. On the other hand, the top sheet material can be held on the other side of the bed. A motor, such as a stepping motor, can drive the roller. The motor can be controlled by a processor in a control box. By controlling the displacement of the top sheet material in this way, a person can be held in a controlled position on the mattress during and after changing body orientation.

[0087] The force to unwind the topsheet material or to drive the rollers for unwinding may be provided by a motor. The topsheet material may also provide the force to drive the rollers. Spring force may also drive the rollers.

[0088] In the method of the fourth embodiment, when one or more of the first expandable bodies are further expanded (inflated), the further expansion (inflated) may first proceed in the area of ​​one or more of the first expandable bodies located below the shoulders of a person.

[0089] By first carrying out further expansion (inflation) steps in the area of ​​one or more first expandable bodies located below a person's shoulders, the person's orientation can be changed more efficiently and comfortably.

[0090] This specification discloses steps for carrying out a method for operating a bed according to a third embodiment, the steps being: utilizing one or more pressure sensors placed on the top sheet to sense the presence of a person lying on the mattress; partially inflating one or more first expandables and one or more second expandables, for example, by partially inflating each of them, thereby supporting a person on the bed; activating a top sheet supply system to hold the top sheet material on a first side of the mattress and allow the top sheet material to stretch freely on a second side opposite the mattress; and expanding one or more first expandables, for example, by inflating one or more first expandables, thereby changing the orientation of a person on the bed. While one or more first expandables are being expanded, one or more second expandables may be contracted. Typically, simultaneously extending one or more first expandable bodies and deflating one or more second expandable bodies makes it even easier to change the orientation of a person in bed.

[0091] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, this specification discloses a method for operating a bed according to a third aspect, the method comprising partially expanding, for example, inflating, one or more first expandable bodies and partially expanding, for example, inflating, one or more second expandable bodies to support a person. A person lying on the bed is prevented from falling out of the bed by one or more of the first and second partially expanded expandable bodies.

[0092] These steps may be performed by a processor such as a microprocessor. This method may be performed by a controller directed by a processor such as a microprocessor or a computer. The controller may be housed in a control box. The controller may be configured to remotely transmit data for display and / or recording. The controller typically communicates electronically with the user interface, for example, via a wired or wireless interface.

[0093] In a sixth aspect, the Specified Specification discloses a component kit for providing a device for repositioning a person on a bed mattress, the kit comprising: a top sheet that, when the device is fixed to the bed, spreads over the entire mattress of the bed; one or more first expandable bodies capable of providing cushioning between the top sheet and the mattress in a first portion (e.g., half) of the mattress; and one or more second expandable bodies capable of providing cushioning between the top sheet and the mattress in a second portion (e.g., half) of the mattress, wherein the top sheet is displaceable on one or more first expandable bodies and one or more second expandable bodies.

[0094] In a seventh embodiment, the present invention extends to a sheet that can be used in combination with any of the other embodiments of the present invention.

[0095] The optional feature of any aspect of the present invention is the optional feature of all aspects of the present invention.

[0096] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the following figures. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0097] [Figure 1] This is a diagram of a variable section bed to which an embodiment has been installed. [Figure 2] These are cross-sectional views of the first and second expandable bodies. [Figure 3] This is an exploded view of a variable cross-section bed to which an embodiment of this device is attached. [Figure 4a] The side view of the bed to which the embodiment is attached is shown. [Figure 4b] This shows a cross-section of the top sheet wound onto the roller. [Figure 5] This shows a sensor sheet equipped with a sensor array. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of the sensor sheet and sensor array. [Figure 7] This shows the airbag on the base layer. [Figure 8a] This shows a variable cross-section bed to which an embodiment of this device is attached. [Figure 8b] The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a variable-section bed, a device for changing a person's orientation, and a person lying supine on the device. [Figure 8c] The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a variable section bed, a device for changing a person's orientation, and a person lying supine on the device, with one or more first expandable bodies and one or more second expandable bodies partially inflated in preparation for changing orientation. [Figure 8d] The diagram shows a variable section bed, a device for changing the orientation of a person, and an end-face cross-section of a person who has been turned to a lateral position, with one or more first expandable bodies fully inflated and one or more second expandable bodies partially inflated. [Figure 9] This shows an expandable body equipped with multiple airbags. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0098] Figure 1 shows a system 100 comprising a variable-section bed 200 and a device 300 for changing the orientation of a person on the bed. A first inflation chamber 3 is positioned in a first portion 212 of the mattress 210, and a second inflation chamber 5 is positioned in a second portion 214 of the mattress 210. Each of the first inflation chamber 3 and the second inflation chamber 5 extends longitudinally along the side of the mattress 210, from the end of the mattress 210 where a person lying on the mattress places their head to the end of the mattress where the person's feet are located. The first inflation chamber 3 extends widthwise from a first side of the top surface of the mattress 210 to the central region of the top surface of the mattress. Similarly, the second inflation chamber 5 extends widthwise from a second side of the top surface of the mattress 210 to the central region of the top surface of the mattress. A gap runs through the center of the top surface of the mattress between the first inflation chamber 3 and the second inflation chamber 5.

[0099] Figure 2 shows a cross-section of the first expansion chamber 3 and the second expansion chamber 5 separated by a gap 216, with a person lying on top of this gap 216. A connecting body 4 is provided in the gap region, and this connecting body 4 can be expanded independently of the first expansion chamber 3 and the second expansion chamber 5.

[0100] The top sheet 7 is stretched over the first and second expansion chambers 3 and 5. Elongated retainers 9 and 11 on either side of the bed hold the top sheet 7 on each side of the bed. One of these retainers 9 can be seen in the diagram of Figure 1. The second retainer 11 can be seen in the exploded view of Figure 3. An interface bracket 13 is used to connect the elongated retainers 9 and 11 to the bed. In this embodiment, the interface bracket 13 is secured to the bed frame 223 by screws. The elongated retainers engage with the universal docking system of the interface bracket. Each elongated retainer 9 and 11 is equipped with a roller 10 over which the top sheet 7 is wound. Each elongated retainer 9 and 11 is equipped with a hinged cover 9a and 11a. Opening the hinged cover 9a provides access to the roller 10. Figure 4(a) shows a detail of the hinged cover 9a opened on one side of the bed. Opening the hinged cover allows the top sheet to be attached to the roller. In this embodiment, the top sheet 7 is attached to the roller 10 via a hook-and-loop Velcro® connection 37. The hook strip of the Velcro is attached to the underside of the top sheet 7 and to the corresponding loop strip of the Velcro on the roller 10. When attaching the top sheet to the bed, the operator typically first opens the hinged cover 9a, then connects the top sheet and the corresponding strips on the roller 37 to attach the top sheet 7 to the roller. The roller 10 is then rotated to wrap the top sheet around the roller 37. This ensures that the top sheet 7 is securely held on the roller by the combination of the hook-and-loop connection and the portion of the top sheet wrapped around the roller. Once the top sheet is attached to the roller, the hinged cover is closed again. A cross-sectional view of the roller 10 with the top sheet 9 wrapped around it is shown in Figure 4(b).

[0101] Each elongated retainer 9, 11 is equipped with motors 35a, 35b for driving rollers. The rollers can be locked in place. The motors may lock the rollers. The brakes may lock the rollers. The rollers can be driven to unwind the top sheet from the rollers (usually to feed it laterally across the mattress). The rollers can be driven to roll up the top sheet (usually to tighten a loose top sheet across the mattress).

[0102] If the top sheet 7 extends across the entire width of the mattress and is attached to rollers on both sides of the bed, the rollers may also wrap around the top sheet, pulling it taut.

[0103] The rollers 10 on both sides of the bed are lockable, thereby holding the top sheet 7 in place. Similarly, unlocking one of the rollers on the bed allows the top sheet 7 wound onto that roller to be unwound, enabling it to move laterally across the top surface of the expansion chambers 3, 5. Excess top sheet 7 can also be wound onto the rollers and tightened by them.

[0104] The main structural elements of each elongated retainer are formed from extruded aluminum. The end plates of the elongated retainers are made from cast aluminum. The rollers and hinged covers are also made of aluminum. The covers that provide safety protection from metal edges are made of injection-molded plastic.

[0105] Each of the first and second inflation chambers 3 and 5 is a single, generally tubular chamber made of polyurethane. Air entry lines 15 and 17 are located at the ends of each chamber 3 and 5. Each inflation chamber 3 and 5 can be inflated by supplying air into the bag through the corresponding entry lines 15 and 17.

[0106] The air that inflates the expansion chambers 3 and 5 is generated by a diaphragm pump 39 located in the control box 19. The air is supplied controlledly from the control box 19 to the first expansion chamber 3 and the second expansion chamber 5, respectively, via control supply lines 21 and 23. Operation of the device 300, which changes the orientation of a person on a bed, including control of the air supply to the expansion chambers, can be performed via a handset 25 attached to the control box. The control box 19 contains a processor 33 that executes routines for operating the device 300.

[0107] The device for repositioning a person in bed may further include a base sheet 41 between the mattress 210 and the first and second expandable bodies 3, 5. The first and second expandable bodies 3, 5 can be attached to the base sheet 41. For example, the first and second expandable bodies 3, 5 can be attached to the base sheet 41 by hook-and-loop fastener (Velcro) connections. Alternatively, the first and second expandable bodies 3, 5 may be plastic-welded to the base sheet 41. A base sheet 41 with the first and second expandable bodies 3, 5 is shown in Figure 7. Figure 7 also shows nine pairs of straps 43 for attaching the device to the mattress 210 of the bed. Each pair of straps is fastened to one another using Velcro, buckles, or other mechanisms well known to those skilled in the art.

[0108] Figure 5 shows a sensor sheet 29 that may form part of a device 300 that changes the orientation of a person lying in bed. This sensor sheet incorporates an array of pressure sensors 31. When incorporated into the device 300, the sensor sheet is sandwiched between the top sheet 7 and the expansion chambers 3 and 5. The pressure sensors 31 detect pressure points where the weight of a person lying in bed is concentrated. The pressure point data is transmitted to a processor 33 in the control box 19, which determines the operation of the device based on the pressure point data. For example, a person lying in bed applies pressure at various contact points with the bed. If high pressure is detected at a specific location on the top surface of the bed for a period of time exceeding a set limit, the processor 33 activates the device 300 to change the orientation of the person, thereby relieving the pressure.

[0109] The sensor sheet 29 moves together with the top sheet 9. When the top sheet 9 is displaced laterally on the bed, the sensor sheet 29 is displaced in the same way.

[0110] Figure 8 shows the operation of a device that changes the orientation of a person lying on a bed from a supine position to a lateral position. Figure 8(a) shows a person lying supine on a variable cross-section bed incorporating an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8(b) is a cross-sectional view of a person lying supine on a variable cross-section bed, taken slightly beyond the feet. The person is positioned roughly in the center of the bed. The left side of the body is above the first expansion chamber 3, and the right side is above the second expansion chamber 5. In the first step, air is pumped into the first expansion chamber 3 and the second expansion chamber 5, respectively, partially expanding each chamber. This supports the person on both sides by the expansion chambers. In a further step, air is pumped into the expansion bag on the left side of the person to further expand it. Simultaneously, the roller on the left side of the person is blocked, holding the top sheet material 7 on this side of the bed. The roller on the right side of the person is driven by an associated stepping motor 35a to feed out the top sheet material. The speed at which the top sheet material is supplied from the roller is coordinated with the speed at which the airbag 3 inflates. This coordination ensures that the person lying on the bed, who is turned from a supine position by the inflation of the airbag 3, remains in an approximately central position on the mattress 21. In this way, the person is prevented from rolling towards the edge of the bed during the turning process.

[0111] In some embodiments, it is not necessary to actively feed the top sheet material; the material can simply be clamped on one side of the bed and the material on the other side is pulled through rollers.

[0112] Figure 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an expandable body having a layered structure. The expandable body bag 3 consists of three inflation chambers 3a, 3b, and 3c. Each inflation chamber is attached to a flap. Each flap is attached to a mattress 21 or a base sheet 41. Although three flaps are shown, a single flap could also be used for all inflation chambers instead.

[0113] In some embodiments, the device includes a mattress. In some embodiments, the device is detachably mounted to a variable-section bed. In some embodiments, the device is part of a variable-section bed. In some embodiments, rollers are mounted to channels or, in further embodiments, to one or both sides of the bed. In some embodiments, an inflatable layer is present for the comfort of a person on the bed. In some embodiments, the top sheet may be loop-shaped. In some embodiments, the inflatable chamber may be configured to roll itself in when inflated and / or rotate around an axis. In some embodiments, the device may include an additional one or more expandable bodies, e.g., an inflatable chamber, which is positioned to prevent the knees of a person lying on the bed from colliding when inflated or expanded. In some embodiments, the device may include an inflatable chamber positioned to function as a support for the head of a person lying on the bed. In some embodiments, there are a plurality of first expandable bodies which are controlled independently or simultaneously (e.g., inflated or deflated). In some embodiments, there are a plurality of second expandable bodies which are controlled independently or simultaneously (e.g., inflated or deflated).

Claims

1. A device for changing a person's orientation on a bed mattress, In the first portion of the mattress, one or more first expandable bodies capable of providing cushioning between the top sheet and the mattress, In the second portion of the mattress, one or more second expandable bodies capable of providing cushioning between the top sheet and the mattress A device equipped with the following features.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus is configured to change the orientation of a person at a controlled position on the mattress.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the apparatus comprises the mattress.

4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a top sheet that spreads over the entire mattress when the apparatus is fixed to the bed, wherein the top sheet is displaceable across the one or more first expandable bodies and the one or more second expandable bodies.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a first elongated retainer for holding the top sheet along the first side of the bed.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a top sheet supply system configured to hold the top sheet material on the first side of the bed and to wind up or unwind the top sheet on the second side of the bed.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising fixing means for fixing the apparatus to the bed.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the one or more first expandable bodies comprises an expansion chamber.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the one or more first expandable bodies comprises a plurality of expansion chambers arranged in a stacked structure.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising an air supply device for supplying air to each of the one or more first expandable bodies and the one or more second expandable bodies.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 10, further comprising a vent for controllably releasing air from an expandable body.

12. The apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the top sheet supply system is configured to operate in coordination with the air supply device and / or the vent of the expandable body.

13. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 12, further comprising a base sheet, thereby positioning the one or more first expandable bodies and the one or more second expandable bodies within a layer between the base sheet and the top sheet.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising one or more sensors.

15. A device for changing the orientation of a person in a controlled position on a bed mattress, the device configured to hold the person in the controlled position on the mattress.

16. A device for changing the orientation of a person on a bed mattress, comprising one or more expandable bodies capable of overcoming the inertia of a person in a generally horizontal position.

17. A bed equipped with the device described in any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. A method for operating the bed according to claim 17, comprising extending one or more of the first expandable bodies to change the orientation of a person at a controlled position on the bed.

19. The method according to claim 18, comprising simultaneously supplying the top sheet such that it is displaced laterally on the bed.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, wherein a sheet is attached to the apparatus using a hook-and-loop system.

21. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein in the first step, each of the one or more first expandable bodies and the one or more second expandable bodies is partially expanded to support a person on both sides, and in the second step, only the one or more first expandable bodies is further expanded to change the orientation of the person.

22. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 21, comprising controlling the supply of lateral top sheet material on the mattress as the one or more first expandable bodies expand, thereby holding the person in a controlled position on the mattress.

23. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein, when further expanding the one or more first expandable bodies, the further expansion proceeds first in the area of ​​the one or more first expandable bodies located below the shoulders of the person.

24. A method for operating a bed according to claim 17, comprising partially extending one or more first expandable bodies and partially extending one or more second expandable bodies to support the person.

25. A component kit that provides a device for changing a person's orientation on a bed mattress, One or more first expandable bodies capable of providing cushioning between the top sheet and the mattress in the first portion of the mattress; and In the second portion of the mattress, one or more second expandable bodies capable of providing cushioning between the top sheet and the mattress, A kit that includes the following:

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