SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AND MONITORING AN INFLAPABLE PERFUSION AUGMENTATION DEVICE FOR CONTACT PRESSURE RELIEF - Patent application

Abstract

This application presents methods, devices, and systems for relieving contact pressure applied to a human body by the surface of an object, such as a chair, bed, or table. The pressure relief device can include a series of chambers whose pressure can be individually varied. When placed between the patient and the contact surface, a controller can vary the contact pressure on the human body by controllably inflating one or more chambers, deflating one or more chambers, or any combination thereof. By monitoring the pressure in each chamber over time, the controller can gain a greater understanding of the movement(s) the human body makes when placed on the pressure relief device.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 736,758, filed Sep. 26, 2018, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Technical Field TECHNICAL FIELD The present technology relates generally to devices, systems and methods for controlling and monitoring inflatable perfusion augmentation devices that cushion the contact pressure applied to the human body by a support surface. [Background technology]

[0003] Pressure injuries (also referred to as "decubitus ulcers," "pressure ulcers," "pressure sores," or "bedsores") typically result from constant pressure applied to a single point along a surface of the human body (such as the sacrum). Pressure injuries are most common in individuals with reduced mobility or who have been immobilized for extended periods of time (such as in a wheelchair, bed, operating table, etc.). Often these individuals are elderly, malnourished, and / or incontinent, all factors that predispose the body to pressure injuries. These individuals are often unable to walk and therefore may sit or lie in the same position for extended periods of time. Additionally, these individuals are often unable to reposition themselves to relieve pressure. As a result, pressure on the skin and soft tissues can eventually lead to ischemia or insufficient blood flow to the area, which can result in skin breakdown and tissue damage. Pressure wounds can cause either a superficial breakdown of the skin or a deeper, full-thickness ulcer that can expose the underlying tissue and put the person at risk for infection. If the resulting infection worsens, it can lead to sepsis and even death.

[0004] There are various pressure technologies on the market to prevent pressure sores. However, conventional alternating pressure technologies have many drawbacks, one of which is the inability to control the spatial relationship between the person and the support surface. As a result, those using conventional alternating pressure technologies may still develop pressure sores or suffer from associated complications. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] Many aspects of the present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale. Instead, emphasis has been placed on clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Additionally, while components may be shown as transparent in certain views, this is for purposes of illustration and is not intended to imply that the components are necessarily transparent. Headings provided herein are merely for convenience.

[0006] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A is a top view of a pressure relief device constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a bottom view of a pressure relief device constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0007] [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a top view of a pressure relief device constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a bottom view of a pressure relief device configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0008] [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a top view of a pressure relief device constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0009] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a partial schematic top view of a pressure relief device illustrating various pressure distributions to avoid ischemia in patients with movement disorders in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0010] [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a partial schematic side view of a pressure relief device for relieving pressure on specific anatomical regions by chamber contraction in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0011] [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a partial schematic side view of a pressure relief device for relieving pressure on specific anatomical structures via chamber inflation in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0012] [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is an isometric view of a controller device (for initiating inflation and / or deflation of a chamber of a pressure relief device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology). [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a front view of a controller device (for initiating inflation and / or deflation of a chamber of a pressure relief device in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology). [Figure 6C] FIG. 6C is a rear view of a controller device (for initiating inflation and / or deflation of a chamber of a pressure relief device in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology).

[0013] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating example components of a controller configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology.

[0014] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a manifold for controlling fluid flow to a chamber of a pressure relief device in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0015] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an electrical schematic diagram showing piezoelectric valves of a manifold for separately controlling fluid flow along multiple channels in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0016] [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a process for varying pressure in a chamber of a pressure relief device in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0017] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a process for establishing properties of a body supported by a pressure relief device in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0018] [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a partial schematic side view of a pressure relief system for positioning an individual on a pressure relief device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0019] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating a processing system capable of performing at least some of the operations described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] Pressure injuries (also referred to as "pressure ulcers" or "ulcers") are localized areas of damage to the skin and / or underlying tissue resulting from contact pressure (or simply "pressure") on the corresponding anatomical region of the body. Pressure wounds often form over bony prominences, such as the skin and soft tissue over the sacrum, coccyx, heels, or hips. However, other sites (e.g., elbows, knees, ankles, shoulders, abdomen, back, or skull) can also be affected. Generally, pressure wounds develop when pressure is applied to blood vessels in soft tissue, which at least partially obstructs blood flow to the soft tissue (e.g., when the pressure exceeds capillary filling pressure), resulting in ischemia at the pressure site for a prolonged period of time. Thus, pressure wounds often occur in people with impaired mobility, immobilized, or who tend to remain sedentary for long periods of time. Once a pressure wound has formed, the healing process is typically slow. For example, when pressure is released from the site of a pressure injury, the body rushes blood (containing proinflammatory mediators) to the area to perfuse the area. Sudden reperfusion of an injured and ischemic area has been shown to result in an inflammatory response caused by proinflammatory mediators, which may actually worsen the original pressure injury and prolong recovery. Furthermore, depending on the patient and the pressure injury, the proinflammatory mediators may diffuse beyond the site of the pressure injury through the bloodstream, thereby causing a systemic inflammatory response. This secondary inflammatory response caused by proinflammatory mediators has been shown to worsen the existing condition or cause further illness, thereby slowing recovery. Furthermore, recovery time may be prolonged by many factors often associated with those susceptible to pressure injuries, such as old age, immobility, pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., arteriosclerosis, diabetes, or infections), smoking, and / or medications (e.g., anti-inflammatory drugs). Therefore, preventing or reducing the formation of pressure sores (and reducing pro-inflammatory mediators) can enhance and facilitate many healing processes in individuals, particularly those with movement disorders during the healing process.

[0021] Thus, in this application, systems and methods are presented for controlling and monitoring an inflatable perfusion augmentation device that relieves contact pressure applied to a human body by a support surface. A controller device (also referred to as a "controller") can be fluidly coupled to a pressure relief device (also referred to as a "pressure relief device" or "pressure relief pad") that includes a series of selectively inflatable chambers (also referred to as "cells"). When the pressure relief device is positioned between the human body and the support surface (also referred to as a "contact surface"), the controller device can continuously and intelligently circulate air through the pressure relief device. The controller device causes one or more chambers of the pressure relief device to be selectively inflated, deflated, or any combination thereof.

[0022] By controllably varying the pressure in the series of chambers, the controller device can move the key pressure point applied by the support surface to various different regions in the human body. For example, after deploying the pressure relief device, the controller device can move the key pressure point(s) applied by the support surface between multiple predefined locations by sequentially varying the level of inflation and therefore the pressure in the different predefined inflatable chambers. In some embodiments, the controller controls pressure under a specific anatomical location of the patient for a specific duration to move the pressure points around the anatomical structure in a precise manner to minimize pressure applied to a specific portion of the anatomical structure (e.g., tissue adjacent to a bony prominence) in a predefined period of time. This continuous or intermittent relocation of the pressure point(s) avoids vascular compression for a sustained period of time, thereby reducing ischemia and, consequently, reducing the incidence of pressure injury.

[0023] Additionally, the controller device may provide a variety of different features and functions that provide and enhance dynamic control of the pressure relief device. For example, the controller device may be configured to automatically detect the type of pressure relief device attached to the controller device and configure a pressure relief inflation and deflation protocol for that type of device.

[0024] The controller device can also provide alerts to the patient, caregivers, and others related to the functioning of the pressure relief device and patient monitoring (e.g., improper use, compliance with treatment protocols). In some embodiments, for example, the controller device can also detect patient movement in the pressure relief device by remotely monitoring the pressure in the air chamber, and then use this information to determine information regarding the patient's movement and position in the device in real time.

[0025] Specific details of some embodiments of the present technology are described herein with reference to Figures 1A-14. Although many of the embodiments are described herein with respect to systems, devices, and methods for controlling an inflatable perfusion augmentation device and related systems and methods for relieving pressure applied by a support surface (e.g., a mattress) to a human body (e.g., a patient, individual, or subject) in a particular body position (e.g., supine position), other embodiments in addition to those described herein are also within the scope of the present technology. For example, at least some embodiments of the present technology may be useful for relieving pressure applied to a human body in a sitting position. In such embodiments, the chambers of the pressure relief device may be differently sized, differently positioned, and / or otherwise different from the chambers of the pressure relief device for a patient positioned in a supine position. Additionally or alternatively, the chambers of the pressure relief device may be inflated in a different order, to a different pressure, for a different duration, and / or have a different inflation pattern than the chambers of the pressure relief device for a patient positioned in a supine position.

[0026] It should be noted that other embodiments in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein are also within the scope of the present technology. For example, components, configurations, and / or procedures shown or described with respect to one embodiment may be combined or substituted with components, configurations, and / or procedures described in other embodiments. Furthermore, embodiments of the present technology may have components, configurations, and / or procedures different from those shown or described herein. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of the present technology may have configurations, components, and / or procedures in addition to those shown or described herein, and that embodiments of the present technology and other embodiments may not include some configurations, components, and / or procedures shown or described herein without departing from the present technology.

[0027] Selected Pressure Relief Device Embodiments The pressure relief device includes multiple chambers or compartments that can be individually controlled to vary the pressure in each chamber and / or a subset of the multiple chambers. When placed between the human body and a support surface, the pressure relief device can vary the pressure on an anatomical region by controllably inflating one or more chambers, deflating one or more chambers, or any combination thereof. Some examples of pressure relief devices are described below with respect to FIGS. 1A-3. Unless otherwise stated, any feature described with respect to one embodiment is equally applicable to other embodiments. Some features are described only with respect to a single embodiment of the pressure relief device for purposes of simplifying the disclosure.

[0028] 1A and 1B are top and bottom views, respectively, of a pressure relief device 100 for relieving pressure in a particular anatomical region applied by an elongated support surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. The pressure relief device 100 may be used in combination with elongated support surfaces, such as mattresses, stretchers, operating tables, and examination tables. In some embodiments, the pressure relief device 100 is secured to the support surface using an attachment device, while in other embodiments, the pressure relief device 100 is placed in direct contact with the support surface (i.e., without an attachment device therebetween).

[0029] 1A, the pressure relief device 100 may include a central portion 102 (also referred to as a "contact portion") positioned along at least one side support 104, where a pair of side supports 104 are disposed on either side of the central portion 102. However, some embodiments of the pressure relief device 100 do not include any side supports. For example, the side support(s) 104 may be omitted when an individual is medically immobilized (e.g., under anesthesia, in a medically induced coma, etc.) and / or physically restrained by an underlying support surface (e.g., by rails along the sides of a bed, armrests along the sides of a chair) and / or other structure (e.g., a physical restraint holding the patient down, a cast, etc.).

[0030] The pressure relief device 100 includes a series of chambers 106 (also referred to as "cells") that are capable of individually varying pressure. In some embodiments, the series of chambers 106 are arranged in a geometric pattern designed to relieve pressure on one or more specific anatomical regions of the human body. As described above, when placed between the human body and a support surface, the pressure relief device 100 can vary the pressure on a specific anatomical region(s) by controllably inflating the chamber(s), deflating the chamber(s), or any combination thereof.

[0031] In some embodiments, the geometric pattern is designed to relieve pressure on a particular anatomical region when the particular anatomical region is aligned over a target region 108 of the geometric pattern. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the target region 108 may correspond to a center point or central portion of the pressure relief device 100 in order to properly position the human anatomy relative to the pressure relief device 100. For example, the target region 108 may correspond to a center point of the geometric pattern. However, the target region 108 does not necessarily have to be the center point of the pressure relief device 100, especially if the pressure relief device 100 is not symmetrical. The target region 108 may be marked to allow an individual (e.g., a doctor, nurse, caregiver, or the patient themselves) to easily position the target region 108 over the corresponding anatomical region of the human body that will be placed over the target region 108.

[0032] The pressure relief device 100 may include a first portion 110 (also referred to as the "first layer" or "bottom layer") designed to face a support surface, and a second portion 112 (also referred to as the "second layer" or "top layer") designed to face a human body supported by the support surface. In some embodiments, the first portion 110 is directly adjacent to the support surface, while in other embodiments, the first portion 110 is directly adjacent to an attachment device designed to help secure the pressure relief device 100 to the support surface. The pressure relief device 100 may be constructed of a variety of materials, and the material(s) used in the construction of each component of the pressure relief device 100 may be selected based on the nature of the body contact, if any, experienced by the component. For example, the second portion 112 may be constructed of a soft or breathable fabric (e.g., a fabric constructed of a moisture-wicking or quick-drying material, or a fabric with perforations) since it will often be in direct contact with the skin. In some embodiments, an impermeable lining (e.g., made of polyurethane) is secured to the inside of the second portion 112 to prevent fluids (e.g., sweat) from entering the series of chambers 106. As another example, if the pressure relief device 100 is designed to be deployed under a cover (e.g., a bed sheet), the second portion 112 may be made of a liquid-impermeable flexible material, such as polyurethane, polypropylene, silicone, or rubber. The first portion 110 may also be made of a liquid-impermeable flexible material.

[0033] The series of chambers 106 may be formed through interconnections between the first portion 110 and the second portion 112 (e.g., either directly or through one or more intermediate layers). In the embodiment shown in Figs. 1A and 1B, the pressure relief device 100 includes an "M-shaped" chamber intertwined with two "C-shaped" chambers facing each other. Such an arrangement has been shown to effectively relieve pressure applied by the support surface to the sacral region of the human body in a supine position when pressures in these chambers are alternating. If the pressure relief device is designed for an anatomical region other than the sacral region, or if the pressure relief device is used to support the human body in a position other than supine (e.g., sitting), the pressure relief device may have a different chamber arrangement. In general, the geometric pattern of the chambers 106 is designed based on the internal anatomical structure (e.g., muscles, bones, and vasculature) of the particular anatomical region where pressure is to be relieved.

[0034] The person using the pressure relief device 100 and / or their caregiver (e.g., nurse, doctor, etc.) is often responsible for actively aligning the patient's anatomical region longitudinally over the geometric pattern of target regions 108. However, the side support(s) 104 may also actively align or guide a particular anatomical region of the human body laterally over the geometric pattern of target regions 108. In some embodiments, the side support(s) 104 are inflatable, while in other embodiments, the side support(s) 104 are permanent structures that protrude from one or both lateral sides of the pressure relief device 100. For example, at least a portion of each side support may be stuffed with cotton, latex, polyurethane foam, or any combination thereof.

[0035] As described further below with respect to Figures 6A and 6B, the controller device may separately control the pressure in each chamber (and side support 104, if included) by providing separate airflows through one or more corresponding valves 114. In some embodiments, the valves 114 are permanently fixed to the pressure relief device 100 and are designed to interface with easily removable tubing (e.g., for easier transportation, storage, etc.). Here, the pressure relief device 100 includes five valves 114: three valves are fluidly coupled to the set of chambers 106 and two valves are fluidly coupled to the side support 104. In other embodiments, the pressure relief device 100 includes more than five valves 114 and / or less than five valves 114.

[0036] In some embodiments, the pressure relief device 100 includes one or more structural features 116a-c that enhance the securing of the pressure relief device 100 to a support surface and / or attachment device. As shown in FIG. 1B, for example, the pressure relief device 100 can include three design features 116a-c, each of which can be aligned with a corresponding structural feature accessible along the support surface or attachment device. For example, each design feature 116a-c can be designed to at least partially surround an upwardly protruding structural feature. The design features 116a-c can also facilitate proper alignment of the pressure relief device 100 with the support surface or attachment device.

[0037] 2A and 2B are top and bottom views, respectively, of a pressure relief device 200 configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. Pressure relief device 200 is typically used in conjunction with a non-elongated support surface that supports an individual in a seated or partially standing position, such as chairs (e.g., office chairs, examination chairs, recliners, and wheelchairs) and seats in vehicles and airplanes. As such, pressure relief device 200 will often be positioned on a support surface with side supports integrated into the support itself (such as the side arms of a recliner or wheelchair). In some embodiments, pressure relief device 200 is secured to the support surface using an attachment device, while in other embodiments, the attachment device is omitted, such that pressure relief device 200 directly contacts the support surface below.

[0038] The pressure relief device 200 may include various features generally similar to those of the pressure relief device 100 described above with respect to Figures 1A and 1B. For example, the pressure relief device 200 may include a first portion 202 (also referred to as the "first layer" or "bottom layer") designed to face a support surface, a second portion 204 (also referred to as the "second layer" or "top layer") designed to face a human body supported by the support surface, and a number of chambers 206 formed through interconnections between the first portion 202 and the second portion 204. In this embodiment, the pressure relief device 200 includes an "M-shaped" chamber 206 intertwined with a posterior "J-shaped" chamber 206 and a posterior "C-shaped" chamber 206. The alternating expansion / contraction of such an arrangement of chambers 206 has been shown to effectively relieve pressure applied by a support surface to the sacral region when the human body is in a sitting position.

[0039] The individual inflation / deflation of these chambers 206 may be performed in a predetermined pattern to a predetermined pressure level. Because the body supported by the pressure relief device 200 is in a seated position, which places more pressure on the pressure relief device 200 than if the body were in a supine or prone position, in some embodiments, for example, the individual chambers 206 may be inflated to a higher pressure level than the chambers 206 of the pressure relief device 100 described with respect to Figures 1A and 1B. Furthermore, unlike the pressure relief device 100 of Figures 1A and 1B, the pressure relief device 200 of Figures 2A and 2B does not include side supports. As mentioned above, side supports may be omitted if the structure on which the individual is sitting or reclining already provides a component that laterally centers the individual (e.g., rails along the sides of a bed, armrests along the sides of a chair). This is often the case when the support surface is not elongated.

[0040] As described further below with respect to Figures 6A and 6B, the controller may control the pressure in each chamber 206 by providing an individual airflow through one or more corresponding valves 208. Here, the pressure relief device 200 includes three valves 208, each corresponding to a single chamber 206. In other embodiments, the pressure relief device 200 may include one valve, two valves, or more than three valves 208, each associated with a particular chamber 206 for individually controlled inflation and / or deflation of that particular chamber. In these and other embodiments, a single valve 208 may be fluidly coupled to two or more chambers 206. In these and other embodiments, a single chamber 206 may be in fluid communication with two or more valves 208 (e.g., one valve for inflation and another valve for deflation).

[0041] 3 is a top view of a pressure relief device 300 for relieving pressure in a particular anatomical region applied by a wheelchair, according to an embodiment of the present technology. The pressure relief device 300 may include various features generally similar to those of the pressure relief device 200 of FIGS. 2A and 2B and the pressure relief device 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B described above. For example, the pressure relief device 300 may include a first portion 302 (also referred to as the "first layer" or "bottom layer") designed to face the wheelchair seat (i.e., the support surface), a second portion 304 (also referred to as the "second layer" or "top layer") designed to face the human body supported by the wheelchair seat, a number of chambers 306 formed via interconnections between the first portion 302 and the second portion 304, and a number of valves 308 for controlling the flow of fluids out of and / or into the chambers 306. In some embodiments, the first portion 302 is directly adjacent to the wheelchair seat, while in other embodiments, the first portion 302 is directly adjacent to the attachment device. As shown in Figure 3, the pressure relief device 300 may include an "M-shaped" chamber 306 intertwined with a "U-shaped" chamber 306 and a "C-shaped" chamber 306 that are inflated and deflated according to a predetermined pattern to relieve pressure applied to the sacral region of the human body in a seated position on the wheelchair seat.

[0042] FIG. 4 is a partial schematic top view of a pressure relief device 400 illustrating various pressure distributions for avoiding ischemia in patients with mobility impairments, according to an embodiment of the present technology. As explained above, when a human body is supported by a contact surface 402 for an extended period of time, pressure sores can form in tissues overlying bony prominences, such as the skin over the sacrum, coccyx, heels, or hip joints. These bony prominences often represent one or more locations where most pressure is applied by the contact surface 402, and thus may be referred to as "major pressure points" along the surface of the human body. To prevent pressure sores from forming, healthy individuals periodically make minor body position adjustments (also known as "fine adjustments"), thereby shifting the location of major pressure points. However, individuals with mobility impairments are often unable to make these fine adjustments themselves. Mobility impairments can result from physical injuries (e.g., traumatic or progressive wounds), limited mobility (e.g., in a car, airplane, or while restrained), medical procedures (e.g., those requiring anesthesia), and / or other conditions that limit an individual's natural movement. For those with movement disorders, the pressure relief device 400 can be used to shift the location of key pressure points for them, i.e., the pressure relief device 400 can create a shifting pressure gradient to avoid constant localized vascular compression and enhance tissue perfusion.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 4, the pressure relief device 400 may include a series of chambers 404 (also referred to as "cells") that can individually vary pressure. The chambers 404 may be formed by interconnections between a first layer (or bottom layer) and a second layer (or top layer) of the pressure relief device 400. The top layer may be composed of a first material (e.g., a breathable, non-irritating material) configured to be in direct contact with the human body, and the bottom layer may be composed of a second material (e.g., a non-breathable grip material) configured to be in direct contact with the contact surface 402 or attachment device. In these and other embodiments, the top and / or bottom layers may be composed of multiple materials, such as coated fabrics or laminates of interconnected materials.

[0044] A pump, such as a pressure device 1314 described below with respect to FIG. 13, may be fluidly coupled to each chamber 404 (e.g., via a corresponding inlet valve), while a controller, such as a controller 1312 described below with respect to FIG. 13, may individually control the flow of fluid (e.g., air) generated by the pump into each chamber 404 according to a predetermined pattern. As described further below, the pump and controller may operate the series of chambers 404 in several different ways. In some embodiments, the chambers 404 have a naturally deflated state, and the controller inflates at least one chamber 404 with the pump, thereby shifting the key pressure points along the user's anatomy. For example, the pump may inflates at least one of the chambers 404 located directly under an anatomical region, thereby momentarily applying contact pressure to the anatomical region and relieving contact pressure in the surrounding anatomical region adjacent to the deflated chamber(s) 404. In these and other implementations, the controller inflates two or more chambers 404 adjacent to an anatomical region with the pump, thereby creating an open space or void beneath the anatomical region to at least momentarily shift the primary pressure point away from the anatomical region. In other embodiments, the chambers 404 have a naturally inflated state, and the controller deflates at least one chamber 404 with the pump, thereby shifting the primary pressure point along the user's anatomy. For example, the pump may be configured to deflate at least one of the chambers 404 located directly beneath the anatomical region, thereby creating a void beneath the anatomical region to momentarily relieve contact pressure on the anatomical region. Whether configured in a naturally deflated or naturally inflated state, continuous or intermittent alteration of the inflation levels of the individual chambers 404 shifts the location of the primary pressure points across different parts of the human body.4, for example, by expanding and / or contracting chamber 404, temporary contact areas 406 are created that move in a predetermined pattern across pressure relief device 400, thereby changing the location of key pressure point(s) on the human body over a finite time interval. In this manner, pressure relief device 400 can simulate the fine adjustments made by a mobile individual, thereby relieving the application of stagnant pressure caused by contact surface 402.

[0045] As described above, the series of chambers 404 may be anatomically arranged in a specific pattern such that when pressure in one or more individual chambers is altered, contact pressure in a specific anatomical region of the body is relieved (e.g., by shifting the primary pressure point to another location). As shown in FIG. 4, for example, the primary pressure point may be moved between eight different locations corresponding to eight temporary contact areas 406. In some embodiments, the primary pressure point shifts between these locations in a predictable manner (e.g., in a clockwise or counterclockwise pattern), while in other embodiments, the primary pressure point shifts between these locations in an unpredictable manner (e.g., in a random pattern, a quasi-random pattern, and / or according to a detected pressure level). Those skilled in the art will recognize that the amount and location of these temporary contact areas 406 may vary based on the arrangement of the series of chambers 404, the anatomical region supported by the pressure relief device 400, the characteristics of the body supported by the pressure relief device 400, and / or the state of the user (e.g., the user is completely immobilized, partially immobilized, etc.).

[0046] In some embodiments, pressure relief device 400 does not include side supports because the condition of the user (also referred to as the "patient") may not benefit from the positioning provided by side supports. For example, side supports may be omitted when the patient is medically immobilized (e.g., under anesthesia, in a medically induced coma, etc.) and / or physically restrained by underlying support surfaces (e.g., rails along the sides of a bed, arms on the sides of a chair) and / or other structures (e.g., physical restraints holding the patient down, casts, etc.).

[0047] 5A is a partial schematic side view of a pressure relief device 502a for relieving pressure on a particular anatomical region by chamber contraction, according to an embodiment of the present technology. The pressure relief device 502a may be positioned between a contact surface 500 (e.g., a bed, table, or chair) and a human body 504, and at least one chamber 508a of a plurality of chambers (collectively referred to as "chambers 508") proximate the particular anatomical region of the human body 504 at least partially contracts to relieve pressure at the particular anatomical region, thereby creating an open area or void 506a below the particular anatomical region. In such an embodiment, the remaining chambers 508 may remain inflated. In this manner, the pressure relief device 502a may sequentially contract the chambers 508 (or an arrangement of chambers) to relieve contact pressure applied by the contact surface 500 to the human body 504.

[0048] 5B is a partially schematic side view of a pressure relief device 502b for relieving pressure on a particular anatomical structure by chamber inflation, according to an embodiment of the present technology. For example, to relieve pressure in a particular anatomical region of a human body 504, the pressure relief device 502b can inflate two chambers 508b and 508c located directly adjacent to the particular anatomical region, thereby creating a void 506b below the particular anatomical region. In such an embodiment, the remaining chambers may remain at least partially deflated. In this manner, the pressure relief device 502b may sequentially inflate the chambers (or an arrangement of multiple chambers) to relieve the contact pressure applied by the contact surface 500 to the human body 504.

[0049] 5A and 5B are shown in direct contact with the contact surface 500. However, in some embodiments, an attachment device is positioned between the pressure relief devices 502a and 502b and the contact surface 500.

[0050] In some embodiments, the pressure relief devices 502a and 502b of Figures 5A and 5B may have chambers 508 of the same configuration and may operate in both a normally inflated state (as described with respect to Figure 5A) and a normally deflated state (as described with respect to Figure 5B) based on an operator (e.g., a medical professional or user) selection. For example, an operator may use a controller to select a normally deflated mode such that the pressure relief device operates as described with respect to Figure 5A, and then change the operating mode to a normally inflated mode such that the pressure relief device operates as described with respect to Figure 5B. Thus, the pressure relief devices disclosed herein may shift the location of key pressure points by controllably inflating chambers, controllably deflating chambers, or a combination thereof.

[0051] SELECTED EMBODIMENTS OF THE CONTROLLER DEVICE 6A-6C are isometric, front, and rear views, respectively, of a controller device 600 (also referred to as "controller 600") for initiating inflation and / or deflation of a chamber of a pressure relief device, according to an embodiment of the present technology. For example, the controller 600 can be coupled to the pressure relief devices 100, 200, 300 described above with respect to FIGS. 1A-3, thereby controlling the pressure in the chambers 106, 206, 306. The controller 600 can manage the pressure in each chamber of the pressure relief device by controllably driving one or more pumps. In some embodiments, a single pump is fluidly connected to all of the chambers, such that the pump is responsible for directing fluid flow to and / or from multiple chambers. In other embodiments, the controller 600 is coupled to two or more pumps, each of which can be fluidly coupled to a single chamber, thereby driving the inflation / deflation of the chamber. In other embodiments, the controller 600 is coupled to at least one pump fluidly coupled to two or more chambers and / or at least one pump fluidly coupled to a single chamber. The pump(s) may be located in the same housing as the controller itself, making the system easily portable, or the pump(s) may be in a separate housing from the controller.

[0052] As shown in FIGS. 6A-6C, the controller 600 may include a housing 602 in which internal components (e.g., those described below with respect to FIG. 7) reside, and a handle 604 connected to the housing 602. In some embodiments, the handle 604 is rigidly secured to the housing 602 in a predetermined orientation, while in other embodiments, the handle 604 is pivotally secured to the housing 602. For example, the handle 604 may be configured to rotate about a hinge connected to the housing between a plurality of positions. The hinge may be one of a pair of hinges connected to the housing 602 along opposing sides. In some embodiments, the controller device 600 may include a cord retention mechanism 607 attached to or integrated with the housing 606. Cords (e.g., electrical cords), tubes, and / or other elongated structures associated with the system may be wrapped around or supported by the cord retention mechanism 607. Thus, the cord retention feature 607 can provide strain relief and retention for the power cord, and in certain embodiments can also provide a flexible flange that retains the power cord plug.

[0053] As further shown in FIGS. 6A-6C, the controller 600 may include a connection mechanism 612 that allows the housing 602 to be fixedly, yet releasably, attached to a structure (e.g., a mobile cart, a bed frame, a rail, a table). In the illustrated embodiment, the connection mechanism 612 is a mounting hook that allows for one-handed operation and is adjustable to allow attachment to mounting surfaces of various thicknesses. In some embodiments, the controller device 600 may include an integrated IV pole clamp 613 that facilitates attachment of the controller device 600 to an IV (intravenous) pole. The IV pole clamp may be adapted to be quick actuated and self-centering using a single actuation mechanism (e.g., a knob or button).

[0054] In some embodiments, the housing 602 includes one or more mechanical input components 606 for providing instructions to the controller 600. The input components 606 may include one or more knobs (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 6A-6C), dials, buttons, levers, and / or other actuation mechanisms. An operator may interact with the one or more input components 606 to modify the airflow provided to the pressure relief device, to vent air from the pressure relief device, or to disconnect the controller 600 from the pressure relief device (e.g., by disconnecting the controller 600 from the tubing connecting the controller 600 and the pressure relief device).

[0055] As described further below, the controller 600 can be configured to inflate and / or deflate the individual chambers of the pressure relief device in a predetermined pattern. In some embodiments, at least one pressure device (e.g., an air pump) resides within the housing 602 of the controller 600, while in other embodiments, the controller 600 is fluidly connected to at least one pressure device. For example, the housing 602 may include a first fluid interface through which fluid is received from the pressure device(s) and a second fluid interface through which fluid is directed to the pressure relief device. Multi-channel tubing may be connected to one or both of these fluid interfaces. For example, the multi-channel tubing may be connected between the first fluid interface of the controller 600 and multiple pressure devices. As another example, the multi-channel tubing may be connected between the second fluid interface of the controller 600 and multiple valves of the pressure relief device. Here, the controller 600 includes a fluid interface 608 designed to interface with the multi-channel tubing. In some embodiments, the multi-channel tubing allows for unidirectional fluid flow, while in other embodiments, the multi-channel tubing allows for bidirectional fluid flow. Thus, fluid returning from the pressure relief device (e.g., as part of the evacuation process) may travel back through the second fluid interface to the controller 600. By controlling the evacuation of returning fluid from the pressure relief device, the controller 600 can actively manage noise generated during use.

[0056] By monitoring the connection with the fluid interface 608, the controller 600 may be able to detect what type of pressure relief device is connected. Each type of pressure relief device may include a different type of connector. For example, a pressure relief device designed for an elongated support surface (e.g., the pressure relief device 100 of FIGS. 1A-B) may include a first arrangement of magnets in the device's connector, while a pressure relief device designed for a non-elongated support surface (e.g., the pressure relief device of FIGS. 2A-B) may include a second arrangement of magnets in the device's connector. The controller 600 may include one or more sensors located near the fluid interface 608 to detect whether a magnet is located within a specified proximity range. The controller 600 may automatically determine what type of pressure relief device is connected based on what magnets are detected by the sensors. For example, the pressure relief devices may have different shapes, layouts and / or dimensions suited to different patient positions (e.g., supine, prone, sitting), support surfaces on which the patient is designed to reside (e.g., wheelchair, bed, recliner, surgical table), and / or patient characteristics (e.g., indications, size), and the controller may be configured to automatically detect the type of pressure relief device connected to the controller. In some embodiments, automatic detection may be performed using other suitable identification mechanisms, such as the controller device 600 reading an RFID tag or barcode on the pressure relief device. As described further below, the controller 600 may be configured to dynamically change the pattern of inflating chambers based on what type of pressure relief device is connected.

[0057] The controller 600 may also include a display 610 for displaying information related to the pressure relief device, inflation / deflation patterns, the patient, etc. For example, the display 610 may present an interface that specifies what type of pressure relief device (e.g., pressure relief devices 100, 200, 300 of FIGS. 1A-3) is connected to the controller 600. Other display technologies may also be used to convey information to an operator of the controller 600. In some embodiments, the controller 600 includes a series of lights (e.g., light emitting diodes) that represent different statuses to provide visual alerts to the operator or user. For example, the status lights may provide a green visual indication if the controller 600 is currently providing therapy, a yellow visual indication if the controller 600 is paused (i.e., in pause mode), a red visual indication if the controller 600 is experiencing issues (e.g., patient non-compliance, no patient detected on the device) or requires maintenance (i.e., in alert mode), etc. These visual indications may be dimmed when a designated period of time has elapsed or when a status has changed (eg, pause mode is no longer active).

[0058] In some embodiments, the controller device 600 also includes a quick or rapid deflation feature that allows the clinician to rapidly deflate all or a portion of the pressure relief device (e.g., the side chambers). This feature is a software solution provided by the controller device 600 and activated via the display 610 (e.g., when configured as a user interface with touch screen buttons) and / or tactile actuators (e.g., buttons) on the device. This rapid deflation, particularly of the side pillows, is expected to be beneficial to the clinician when rapid access to the patient (e.g., to provide CPR) is required.

[0059] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating components of a controller 700, according to an embodiment of the present technology. The controller 700 may include one or more processors 702, a communication module 704, an analysis module 706, a manifold 708, a memory 710, and / or a power component 712 electrically coupled to a power interface 714. These components may reside in a housing (also referred to as a "structure"), such as the controller device housing 602 described above with respect to FIGS. 6A-6C. In some embodiments, the controller 700 may be incorporated into other housings or components of a pressure relief system, including being remotely coupled to a pressure relief device. An embodiment of the controller 700 may include any subset of the components shown in FIG. 7, as well as additional components not shown in FIG. 7. For example, some embodiments of the controller 700 include a physical data interface through which data may be transmitted to another computing device. Examples of physical data interfaces include an Ethernet port, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, and a dedicated port.

[0060] The controller 700 may be connected to a pressure relief device that includes a series of chambers in which pressure can be individually varied. When the pressure relief device is placed between the body and a support surface, the controller 700 can vary the pressure on an anatomical region of the body by controllably inflating one or more chambers, deflating one or more chambers, or any combination thereof. Such action can be accomplished by a manifold 708 that controls the flow of fluid to the series of chambers of the pressure relief device. The manifold 708 is further described with respect to Figures 8 and 9.

[0061] As described further below, the transducers mounted on the manifold 708 can generate electrical signals based on pressures detected within the chambers of the pressure relief device. Generally, each chamber is associated with a different fluid channel and a different transducer. Thus, if the manifold 708 is designed to facilitate fluid flow to a four-chamber pressure relief device, the manifold 708 may include four fluid channels and four transducers. In some embodiments, the manifold 708 may include fewer than four fluid channels and / or transducers, or more than four fluid channels and / or transducers. Pressure data representing values ​​of the electrical signals generated by the transducers can be stored, at least temporarily, in the memory 710. In some embodiments, the processor(s) 702 process the pressure data prior to examination by the analysis module 706. For example, the processor 702 may apply algorithms designed for temporal alignment, artifact removal, etc.

[0062] By examining this pressure data in conjunction with flow data representative of fluid flowing from the pump to the controller 700, the analysis module 706 can control how the chambers of the pressure relief device expand and / or contract. For example, the analysis module 706 may be responsible for separately controlling the set points for fluid flow to each chamber.

[0063] Furthermore, by examining this pressure data, the analysis module 706 may be able to sense movements of the human body on which the pressure relief device is placed. These movements may be caused by the patient, another individual (e.g., a caregiver or an operator of the controller 700), or an underlying support surface. The analysis module 706 may apply algorithms to data representative of these movements (also referred to as "movement data" or "motion data") to better understand the patient's health by identifying repetitive and / or random movements. For example, the analysis module 706 may be able to establish a respiratory rate or heart rate based on the patient's movements. In general, the movement data can be derived from the pressure data. This allows the pressure relief device to not actually include sensors for measuring movements, such as accelerometers, tilt sensors, or gyroscopes.

[0064] After reviewing the pressure data, the analysis module 706 may respond in a variety of ways. For example, the analysis module 706 may generate a notification (e.g., an alert) that is sent by the communication module 704 to another computing device. The other computing device may be associated with a medical professional (e.g., a doctor or nurse), the patient's family member, or some other entity (e.g., a researcher or insurer). The communication module 704 may communicate with the other computing device via a bidirectional communication protocol, such as near field communication (NFC), wireless USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, a cellular data protocol (e.g., LTE, 3G, 4G, or 5G), or a proprietary point-to-point protocol. As another example, the analysis module 706 may integrate the pressure data (or an analysis of such data) with the patient's electronic health record. Typically, the electronic health record is maintained on a storage medium accessible to the communication module 704 over a network.

[0065] The controller 700 may include a power component 712 that may be provided to other components present within the enclosure as needed. Examples of power components include rechargeable Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) batteries, rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries, rechargeable Nickel Cadmium (NiCad) batteries, etc. In some embodiments, the controller 700 does not include a power component and must receive power from an external power source. In such embodiments, a cable designed to facilitate the transfer of power (e.g., via a physical connection of electrical contacts) may be connected between the power interface 714 of the controller 700 and the external power source. The external power source may be, for example, an alternating current (AC) power socket or another electronic device.

[0066] FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a manifold 800 for controlling the flow of fluid (e.g., air) to a chamber of a pressure relief device, according to an embodiment of the present technology. As described above, the controller can be configured to inflate and / or deflate the chamber of the pressure relief device. To accomplish this, the manifold 800 can direct the fluid to the chamber through a series of valves 802. In some embodiments, each valve 802 corresponds to a separate chamber of the pressure relief device. In some embodiments, at least one valve 802 corresponds to multiple chambers of the pressure relief device. In some embodiments, at least one valve 802 is not used during operation. For example, if the pressure relief device includes four chambers, multi-channel tubing may be connected between the pressure relief device and the four valves 802 of the manifold 800. In such embodiments, the other valves may remain blocked during operation.

[0067] Generally, the valves 802 are piezoelectric valves designed to switch from one state (e.g., an open state) to another state (e.g., a closed state) in response to the application of a voltage. Piezoelectric valves offer several advantages over other valves, such as linear valves or solenoid-based valves. First, piezoelectric valves do not require a holding current to maintain a state. As such, piezoelectric valves generate little heat. Second, piezoelectric valves generate little noise as they switch states. This is particularly useful in medical settings. Third, piezoelectric valves can be opened and closed in a controlled manner that allows the manifold 800 to accurately approach a given flow rate without overshooting or undershooting. In contrast, the other valves mentioned above must be either in an open state, where the valve is fully open, or in a closed state, where the valve is fully closed. Fourth, piezoelectric valves require very little power to operate, so the power components of the controller (e.g., power component 712 of FIG. 7) need only provide 3-6 watts to the manifold 800 at any given time. Although embodiments of manifold 800 may be described in the context of piezoelectric valves, other types of valves, such as linear valves or solenoid-based valves, may be used instead of or in addition to piezoelectric valves.

[0068] Each piezoelectric valve contains at least one piezoelectric element that functions as an electromechanical transducer. When a voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element, the piezoelectric element deforms, thereby producing mechanical motion (such as opening or closing the valve). Examples of piezoelectric elements include disk transducers, bending actuators, and piezoelectric stacks.

[0069] In some embodiments, the manifold 800 includes one or more transducers 806 and a circuit board 804 that includes one or more integrated circuits (also referred to as "chips") for managing communication with the valves 802 and the transducers 806. These local chips are present within the manifold 800 itself, so that the valves 802 can be digitally controlled in a precise manner. The local chips may also be connected to other components of the controller. For example, the local chips may be connected to a processor (e.g., processor 702 of FIG. 7) housed within the controller. Meanwhile, the transducers 806 may generate an electrical signal based on the pressure in each chamber of the pressure relief device. Generally, each chamber is associated with a different valve 802 and a different transducer 806. Here, for example, the manifold includes six valves 802 that can be interfaced with the pressure relief device, each of which is associated with a corresponding transducer 802. Pressure data representing the value of the electrical signal generated by the transducers 806 may be provided to other components of the controller for further analysis.

[0070] Manifold 800 may also include one or more compressors. In some embodiments, each valve 802 of manifold 800 is fluidly coupled to the same compressor, while in other embodiments, each valve 802 of manifold 800 is fluidly coupled to a different compressor. Each compressor can increase the pressure of a fluid (e.g., air) by reducing the volume of the fluid before directing the fluid to a pressure relief device.

[0071] Fluid provided by the pump may first be received by the manifold 800 through one or more inlet fluid interfaces 808. As noted above, in some embodiments, a compressor may increase the pressure of the fluid by reducing the volume of the fluid. The manifold 800 may then controllably direct the fluid through valves 802 into the chambers of the pressure relief device. The flow of fluid to each chamber may be controlled by a local chip disposed on the circuit board 804. For example, the local chip(s) may dynamically vary the flow of fluid to each chamber in real time by controllably applying voltages to open and close the valves 802.

[0072] In some embodiments, the manifold includes one or more outlet fluid interfaces 810. The outlet fluid interfaces 810 may be designed for high pressure and high flow rates to allow for rapid deflation of the pressure relief device. For example, upon determining that an operator has provided an input indicating a desire to deflate the pressure relief device (or a portion thereof), the manifold 800 may allow fluid to travel from the pressure relief device back through the valve 802 and then out through the outlet fluid interface 810. Thus, the outlet fluid interface 810 may also be referred to as an "exhaust" or "outlet." To provide the input, the operator may interact with a mechanical input component (e.g., mechanical input component 606 of FIG. 6A) or a digital input component (e.g., as seen on the display 610 of FIG. 6A).

[0073] FIG. 9 is a generalized electrical diagram illustrating how piezoelectric valves 902 of a manifold can separately control the flow of fluid along multiple channels, according to an embodiment of the present technology. In FIG. 9, the manifold includes seven piezoelectric valves 902. In other embodiments, the manifold may include fewer than seven valves or more than seven valves. Fluid can be directed by the manifold through the piezoelectric valves 902 to the chambers of a pressure relief device. In FIG. 9, the manifold 900 is fluidly connected to a pressure relief device that includes five chambers. However, in other embodiments, the manifold 900 may be fluidly connected to a pressure relief device that includes fewer than five chambers or more than five chambers.

[0074] Not all of the piezoelectric valves 902 included in the manifold are necessarily identical to one another. The piezoelectric valves may be designed for high pressure low flow, high pressure high flow, low pressure low flow, or low pressure high flow. In some embodiments, all of the piezoelectric valves included in the manifold are of the same type, while in other embodiments, the manifold includes multiple types of piezoelectric valves. For example, the piezoelectric valves corresponding to the side supports of the pressure relief device may be designed for high pressure high flow (e.g., to allow for quick drainage of fluid), while the piezoelectric valves corresponding to the chambers of the pressure relief device may be designed for high pressure low flow. Furthermore, some piezoelectric valves may support bidirectional fluid flow and other piezoelectric valves may support unidirectional fluid flow. In general, when the manifold 900 includes multiple unidirectional piezoelectric valves, each chamber of the pressure relief device is associated with a pair of unidirectional piezoelectric valves to allow fluid to flow in either direction. Here, for example, chambers 1-3 are associated with a single bidirectional piezoelectric valve, chamber 4 is associated with two bidirectional piezoelectric valves, and chamber 5 is associated with two unidirectional piezoelectric valves. Additionally, the controller manifold can be configured to inflate and / or deflate each chamber of the pressure relief device to achieve a specified pressure value.

[0075] 10 is a flow diagram of a process 1100 for varying pressure in chambers of a pressure relief device disposed between a human body and a support surface according to an embodiment of the present technology. By varying the pressure in the chambers, a controller can move key pressure points applied by the support surface to the human body throughout the human body. For example, key pressure points applied to the human body by the support surface may be moved between multiple predefined locations by sequentially varying the pressure in different predefined subsets of the inflatable chambers.

[0076] First, the controller may determine that a pressure relief device is connected to the controller (step 1101). By monitoring the connection of the fluid interface (e.g., fluid interface 608 of FIG. 6B) with the pressure relief device, the controller may detect which type of pressure relief device is connected. In some embodiments, each type of pressure relief device may include a different type of connector. For example, a pressure relief device designed for an elongated support surface (e.g., pressure relief device 100 of FIGS. 1A-B) may include a first arrangement of magnets in the device's connector, while a pressure relief device designed for a non-elongated support surface (e.g., pressure relief device of FIGS. 2A-B) may include a second arrangement of magnets in the device's connector. The controller may determine which type of pressure relief device is connected based on which magnets are detected within a specified proximity range. As another example, a pressure relief device designed for an elongated support surface may include a beacon capable of transmitting a first electronic signature, while a pressure relief device designed for a non-elongated support surface may include a beacon capable of transmitting a second electronic signature. Examples of beacons include Bluetooth beacons, USB beacons, and infrared beacons. The beacons may be configured to communicate with the controller via a wired or wireless communication channel.

[0077] The controller may then identify a pattern corresponding to the pressure relief device (step 1102). For example, the controller may review a library of patterns corresponding to different pressure relief devices to identify an appropriate pattern. The library of patterns may be stored in a local memory (e.g., memory 710 of FIG. 7) or in a remote memory accessible to the controller over a network. As another example, the controller may modify an existing pattern based on the pressure relief device. For example, the controller may change an existing pattern in response to determining that the pattern includes instructions for more chambers than the pressure relief device includes instructions. The controller may then inflate chambers of the pressure relief device according to the pattern (step 1103). More specifically, the controller may change pressure on one or more anatomical regions of the body by controllably inflating one or more chambers, deflating one or more chambers, or any combination thereof.

[0078] The controller may receive an input indicating a request to initiate a deflation procedure (step 1104). In some embodiments, the input is associated with an instruction provided manually by an operator (e.g., as a result of interaction with a mechanical or digital input component). For example, the operator may request that the deflation procedure be initiated before a patient is moved to or from the pressure relief device. As another example, the operator may request that the deflation procedure be initiated before a medical procedure involving the patient (e.g., cardiopulmonary resuscitation or defibrillation) is performed. In other embodiments, the input is associated with an instruction automatically generated by the controller. The controller may automatically generate the instruction in response to a specified criterion being met. For example, the controller may automatically generate the instruction when the pressure in the chamber or the side support of the pressure relief device exceeds an upper threshold.

[0079] The controller may then deflate the chamber, the side supports, or any combination thereof (step 1105). More specifically, the controller may instruct a manifold (e.g., manifold 800 of FIG. 8) to stop supplying fluid to at least a portion of the pressure relief device and / or to open a valve(s) corresponding to a portion of the pressure relief device that allows fluid to escape from the pressure relief device.

[0080] 11 is a flow diagram of a process 1200 for establishing characteristics of a body supported by a pressure relief device without placing sensors in direct contact with the body, in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. Steps 1201-1203 of FIG. 12 may be at least generally similar to steps 1101-1103 of FIG.

[0081] As described above, the controller responsible for managing the inflation / deflation of the pressure relief device may include a transducer(s) configured to generate an electrical signal based on the pressure in each chamber of the pressure relief device. Thus, the controller may obtain pressure data representing the value of the electrical signal generated by the transducer(s) (step 1204). The controller may then examine the pressure data to identify the movement(s) of the human body (step 1205). In some embodiments, the controller may transmit some or all of the pressure data to a remote location (e.g., a central server) for processing or analysis. By constantly monitoring the pressure in the chambers of the pressure relief device, the controller may interpret information regarding the movement / position of the human body without using sensors that are in direct contact with the human body.

[0082] Monitoring of patient movement via remote pressure monitoring can be used as an indicator of the patient's mobility status and / or overall health status, as well as identifying periods of complete immobility. This indicates that patient movement can also indicate a decline in the patient's health or potential health complications. Remote pressure monitoring can also detect when the patient leaves the bed, chair, or other surface on which the patient relief device is located, and in some embodiments can respond to this movement with an alert or warning provided to a local or remote location (e.g., to a caregiver) to draw attention to this movement. This allows the patient's caregiver to assist the patient in avoiding falls when ambulatory, or to identify falls from the support surface in real time. Remote pressure monitoring data can also be used to determine whether the patient is using the device properly, whether the patient is properly positioned on the pressure relief surface, and whether the patient is adhering to the prescribed protocol. Based on this information, an alert or warning is sent to a remote system accessible by the hospital, the caregiver, and / or others involved in the patient's care. Real-time monitoring and analysis of the data can provide accurate alerts to alert caregivers, administrators, etc. if the patient is not adhering to the protocol and / or is not using the device properly (e.g., incorrect positioning), thereby promoting proper use of the pressure relief system and enhancing the benefits of the pressure relief system.

[0083] The controller (or other electronic device, such as a mobile phone, laptop computer, or computer server) may estimate characteristics of the human body based on the pressure data, the movement(s), or any combination thereof (step 1206). For example, the controller may be able to estimate the weight of the human body by examining the pressure data in conjunction with flow data representative of fluid flowing into the controller (e.g., from one or more pumps). As another example, the controller may be able to estimate the respiration rate or heart rate of the human body based on the movement. Thus, the controller may be able to understand certain aspects of the health of the human body, such as mobility state, in a non-invasive manner.

[0084] It is contemplated that the above steps may be performed in various orders and combinations, unless contrary to physical possibilities. For example, the controller may be configured to simultaneously perform process 1100 of FIG. 10 and process 1200 of FIG. 11. Some embodiments may also include other steps. For example, the controller may cause a notification to be sent to another computing device in a predetermined situation (e.g., upon detecting motion indicative of discomfort in a specified anatomical region of the human body, upon detecting motion indicative of an attempt to leave the pressure relief device, or upon detecting a lack of motion for a specified period of time).

[0085] SELECTED EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESSURE RELIEF SYSTEM FIG. 12 is a partial schematic side view of a pressure relief system 1300 (or simply "system") for positioning an individual 1302 over a pressure relief device 1306, in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. The system 1300 can include a pressure relief apparatus 1306, which includes a side support 1308, a mounting apparatus 1304, a pressure device 1314, and a controller 1312. As shown in Figure 12, the mounting apparatus 1304 can serve to secure the pressure relief apparatus 1306 to a support surface 1316. Further examples of mounting apparatuses are described in detail with respect to Figures 1-3, and further examples of pressure relief apparatuses are described in detail with respect to Figures 4A-6.

[0086] In this embodiment, the pressure relief device 1306 includes a pair of raised side supports 1308 that extend longitudinally along either side of the pressure relief device 1306. The pressure relief device 1306 includes a series of interconnected chambers on a substrate. As further described above, these chambers may be arranged in a geometric pattern designed to relieve pressure applied by the support surface 1316 to a particular anatomical region.

[0087] The raised side supports 1308 may be configured to actively align a particular anatomical region of each 1302 across a series of chambers. For example, the raised side supports 1308 may be responsible for actively aligning a particular anatomical region widthwise across a center point of a geometric pattern. As shown in FIG. 10, the particular anatomical region may be the sacral region. However, the particular anatomical region may be any area of ​​the body that is susceptible to pressure (and therefore susceptible to the formation of pressure ulcers). The raised side supports 1308 may be configured to be ergonomically comfortable. For example, the raised side supports 1308 may include recesses designed to accommodate the forearms, allowing pressure to be relieved from the elbows.

[0088] The raised side supports 1308 may be significantly larger in size compared to the chamber of the pressure relief device 1306. Thus, the raised side supports 1308 may create a barrier that limits lateral movement of the individual 1302. In some embodiments, the raised side supports 1308 are approximately 2-3 inches taller compared to the average height of the inflated chamber. Because the raised side supports 1306 straddle the individual 1302, the raised side supports 1308 may act as a barrier to maintain the position of the individual 1302 on top of the pressure relief device 1306. In some embodiments, the raised side supports 1308 may be omitted.

[0089] In some embodiments, the inner sidewalls of the raised side supports 1308 form a rigid surface with a steep orientation angle relative to the pressure relief device 1306 after inflation. For example, the inner sidewalls may be in a plane that is approximately 135 degrees ± 24 degrees from the plane of the pressure relief device 1306. These steep inner sidewalls may form a channel that naturally positions the individual 1302 over the chamber of the pressure relief device 1306. In this way, inflation of the raised side supports 1308 may force the individual 1302 into a proper position for active pressure relief by aligning the individual 1302 in the correct position relative to the chamber of the pressure relief device 1306.

[0090] The pressure on each raised side support 1308 may be reduced after the first inflation cycle is completed to increase comfort and prevent excessive force against the lateral sides of the individual 1302. A medical professional (e.g., doctor, nurse, or caregiver) will often be present during the first inflation cycle to ensure that the raised side supports 1308 properly position the individual 1302 over the pressure relief device 1306.

[0091] The controller 1312 may be configured to regulate the pressure of each chamber included in the pressure relief device 1306 and / or each raised side support 1308 via the pressure device 1314 (e.g., an air pump) and the multi-channel tubing 1310. For example, the chambers may be controlled in a specific pattern to preserve blood flow and reduce pressure applied to the individual 1302 when coordinately inflated (pressurized) and deflated (depressurized) by the controller 1312. The multi-channel tubing 1310 may be connected between the pressure relief device 1306 and the pressure device 1314. Thus, the pressure relief device 1306 may be fluidly coupled to a first end of the multi-channel tubing 1310, and the pressure device 1314 may be fluidly coupled to a second end of the multi-channel tubing 1310.

[0092] Processing System 13 is a block diagram illustrating a processing system 1400 capable of implementing at least some of the operations described herein. For example, some components of the processing system 1400 may be hosted on a controller (e.g., controller 1112 of FIG. 12) that is responsible for controlling a pressure relief device (e.g., pressure relief device 1106 of FIG. 12).

[0093] The processing system 1400 may include one or more central processing units ("processors") 1402, a main memory 1406, a non-volatile memory 1410, a network adapter 1412 (e.g., a network interface), a video display 1418, input / output devices 1420, control devices 1422 (e.g., a keyboard and pointing device), drive units 1424 including a storage medium 1426, and a signal generating device 1430 communicatively coupled to a bus 1416. The bus 1416 is illustrated as an abstraction representing one or more physical buses and / or point-to-point connections connected by appropriate bridges, adapters, or controllers. Thus, the bus 1416 may include a system bus, a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus or PCI-Express bus, a HyperTransport or Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) bus, a Universal Serial Bus (USB), an IIC (I2C) bus, or the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standard 1494 bus (also referred to as "Firewire").

[0094] Processing system 1400 may share a similar computer processor architecture with a desktop computer, a tablet computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile phone, a game console, a music player, a wearable electronic device (e.g., a watch or fitness tracker), a network-connected ("smart") device (e.g., a television or home assistant device), a virtual / augmented reality system (e.g., a head-mounted display), or another electronic device capable of executing (sequentially or otherwise) a set of instructions that specify an action(s) to be taken by processing system 1400.

[0095] Although main memory 1406, non-volatile memory 1410, and storage medium 1426 (also referred to as "machine-readable medium") are illustrated as single media, the terms "machine-readable medium" and "storage medium" should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers) that store one or more sets of instructions 1428. The terms "machine-readable medium" and "storage medium" should be taken to include any medium capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructions for execution by processing system 1400.

[0096] Generally, the routines executed to implement the embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as part of an operating system or a specific application, component, program, object, module, or sequence of instructions (collectively referred to as a "computer program"). A computer program typically includes one or more instructions (e.g., instructions 1404, 1408, 1428) set at various times in various memory and storage devices of a computer. The instruction(s) when read and executed by one or more processors 1402 cause the processing system 1400 to perform operations that implement elements associated with various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0097] Additionally, while the embodiments are described in the context of a fully functional computing device, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various embodiments may be distributed as program products in a variety of forms, and the present disclosure applies regardless of the particular type of machine or computer readable medium used to effect the distribution.

[0098] Further examples of machine-readable storage media, machine-readable media, or computer-readable media include recordable-type media such as volatile and non-volatile memory devices 1410, floppy and other removable disks, hard disk drives, optical disks (e.g., compact disk-read only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD)), and the like, and transmission-type media such as digital and analog communications links.

[0099] The network adapter 1412 enables the processing system 1400 to broker data in a network 1414 with entities external to the processing system 1400 through any communication protocol supported by the processing system 1400 and the external entities. The network adapter 1412 may include a network adapter card, a wireless network interface card, a router, an access point, a wireless router, a switch, a multi-layer switch, a protocol transducer, a gateway, a bridge, a bridge router, a hub, a digital media receiver, and / or a repeater.

[0100] Network adapter 1412 may include a firewall that may govern and / or manage permissions to access / proxy data in a computer network and track various levels of trust between different machines and / or applications. A firewall may be any number of modules having any combination of hardware and / or software components capable of enforcing a set of predefined access rights between a particular set of machines and applications, between machines, and / or between applications (e.g., to regulate the flow of traffic and resource sharing between these entities). A firewall may further manage and / or access access control lists that detail permissions, including rights to access and manipulate objects by individuals, machines, and / or applications, and the circumstances under which permission rights are valid.

[0101] The techniques presented herein may be implemented with programmable circuitry (e.g., one or more microprocessors), software and / or firmware, dedicated hardwired (i.e., non-programmable) circuitry, or a combination of such forms. The dedicated circuitry may be in the form of one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc.

[0102] conclusion The above detailed description of the embodiments of the present technology is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present technology to the precise form disclosed above. Although specific embodiments of the present technology and examples thereof have been described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the present technology, as will be recognized by those skilled in the relevant art. For example, although steps are presented in a given order, in alternative embodiments, the steps may be performed in a different order. Also, various embodiments described herein may be combined to provide further embodiments.

[0103] Thus, while specific embodiments of the present technology are described herein for illustrative purposes, it will be understood that well-known structures and functions have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the embodiments of the present technology. Where the context permits, singular or plural terms may also include the plural or singular terms, respectively.

[0104] Further, unless the word "or" is expressly limited to mean only a single item exclusive of the other items in a list containing two or more items, the use of "or" in such a list is to be interpreted as including (a) any single item in the list, (b) all items in the list, or (c) any combination of items in the list. In addition, the term "comprises" is used throughout to mean the inclusion of at least the recited feature(s), without excluding a greater number of the same features and / or other features of additional types. Although certain embodiments have been described herein for illustrative purposes, it will be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the technology. Furthermore, while advantages associated with certain embodiments of the technology have been described in the context of those embodiments, other embodiments may also exhibit such advantages, and not necessarily all embodiments may exhibit such advantages to fall within the scope of the technology. Thus, the present disclosure and related technology may encompass other embodiments not expressly shown or described herein.

Claims

1. an inlet interface fluidly coupled to the pump; an outlet interface fluidly coupled to a pressure relief device disposed between the body and a surface, the pressure relief device including a plurality of selectively inflatable chambers; A housing including: one or more sensors disposed proximate to the outlet interface; A processor; a memory containing instructions for regulating the flow of air provided by the pump to inflate the chambers of the pressure relief device in a controlled manner, The instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: determining a type of the pressure relief device connected to the outlet interface based on an analysis of the output generated by the one or more sensors; identifying a programmable pattern corresponding to the type of pressure relief device; and inflating the chambers of the pressure relief device to different degrees according to the programmable pattern, thereby shifting the contact pressure points applied by the surface to the body over time. a memory for performing the A manifold comprising: a plurality of piezoelectric valves, each piezoelectric valve configured to regulate airflow to a corresponding one of the plurality of chambers of the pressure relief device; a plurality of transducers, each transducer configured to monitor a pressure in a corresponding one of the plurality of chambers of the pressure relief device; a manifold, each chamber of the plurality of chambers of the pressure relief device being associated with a different one of the piezoelectric valves and a different one of the transducers; Including, the controller.

2. The controller of claim 1 , wherein the housing further includes a second outlet interface through which air can be exhausted to an ambient environment.

3. The controller of claim 1 , wherein the outlet interface includes a plurality of channels, each channel of the plurality of channels corresponding to a different one of the plurality of chambers of the pressure relief device.

4. 13. The controller of claim 1, further comprising: a mechanical input component operably coupled to the processor, the mechanical input component configured to identify appropriate instructions for adjusting the flow of air when the processor receives an input indicative of an interaction of the mechanical input component.

5. The controller of claim 1 , further comprising a display configured to present information related to the air flow, the pressure relief device, an individual currently receiving treatment, or any combination thereof.

6. The controller of claim 1 , wherein when the pressure relief device is deployed, the processor allows the plurality of chambers to naturally expand.

7. 7. The controller of claim 6, wherein the processor is configured to relieve contact pressure on the anatomical region of the human body according to the programmable pattern, the programmable pattern reducing contact pressure on the anatomical region by prompting the processor to contract at least one chamber positioned below the anatomical region.

8. The controller of claim 1 , wherein when the pressure relief device is deployed, the processor causes the plurality of chambers to naturally contract.

9. 9. The controller of claim 8, wherein the processor is configured to relieve contact pressure on an anatomical region of the human body according to the programmable pattern, the programmable pattern prompting the processor to inflate at least one chamber positioned adjacent to the anatomical region to reduce contact pressure on the anatomical region.

10. The manifold comprises: a second inlet interface fluidly coupled to the pump; The controller of claim 1 , further comprising: a second outlet interface through which air can be exhausted to an ambient environment.

11. The manifold comprises:

11. The controller of claim 10, further comprising a compressor configured to pressurize air received from the pump before it is delivered to the plurality of chambers of the pressure relief device via the plurality of piezoelectric valves.

12. The controller of claim 1 , wherein at least one piezoelectric valve of the plurality of piezoelectric valves is a bidirectional piezoelectric valve that allows airflow in multiple directions.

13. The controller of claim 1 , wherein at least one piezoelectric valve of the plurality of piezoelectric valves is a one-way piezoelectric valve that allows airflow in only one direction.

14. 13. The controller of claim 1, wherein the manifold is present within a controller, and the processor is further configured to transmit at least a portion of data representative of the electrical signals generated by the plurality of transducers based on pressures in corresponding chambers of the pressure relief device to another processor housed within the controller for further investigation.

15. The controller of claim 1 , wherein the type corresponds to a number or arrangement of the plurality of chambers, and the programmable pattern indicates an appropriate pressure over time for each of the plurality of chambers.

16. The controller of claim 1 , wherein the programmable pattern is identified from among the plurality of programmable patterns, each programmable pattern corresponding to a different type of the pressure relief device.

17. determining, by the controller of any one of claims 1 to 16, that a pressure relief device disposed between a human body and a surface is fluidly coupled to an outlet interface of the controller based on an analysis of outputs generated by one or more sensors disposed proximate to the outlet interface, the pressure relief device including a plurality of chambers; establishing, by the controller, a type of the pressure relief device coupled to the outlet interface of the controller based on an analysis of the output; identifying, by the controller, a programmable pattern corresponding to a type of the pressure relief device; inflating, by said controller, said chambers of said pressure relief device to different degrees according to said programmable pattern, thereby shifting the contact pressure points applied by said surface to said body over time; A method comprising:

18. 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the determining includes detecting, by the controller, the number of magnets, if any, located within a specified proximity range of the exit interface based on an analysis of the output generated by the one or more sensors.

19. receiving, by the controller, an input indicating a request to initiate a deflation procedure; contracting, by the controller, fluid from at least one chamber of the pressure relief device through a second outlet interface to an ambient environment; 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising:

20. The method of claim 19 , wherein the request is provided manually by an operator via interaction with a mechanical input component of the controller.

21. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the request is provided automatically by the controller in response to a determination that the pressure in the chamber of the pressure relief device exceeds an upper threshold.

22. obtaining, by the controller, data indicative of a pressure in each of the plurality of chambers of the pressure relief device; examining, by said controller, the data to identify movements, if any, made by said human body; 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising:

23. determining, by the controller, that the human body has not performed a movement for a specified period of time; causing the controller to send a notification to an electronic device, the notification specifying that no movement was made by the human body for the specified period of time; 23. The method of claim 22, further comprising:

24. determining, by the controller, that a movement made by the human body matches a specified pattern; causing, by the controller, a notification to be sent to an electronic device, the notification specifying that a movement made by the human body matches a specified pattern; 23. The method of claim 22, further comprising:

25. obtaining, by the controller, data indicative of a pressure in each of the plurality of chambers of the pressure relief device; estimating, by the controller, a characteristic of the human body based on the data; 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising:

26. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the characteristic is weight, heart rate, or respiratory rate.

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