Cushion-type bedsore prevention device having air pockets

Abstract

A cushion according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a base part comprising a first base that serves as a seating part and a second base that is provided along the periphery of the seating part; and an air mat surrounded by the second base, wherein the air mat comprises at least one air cell of which the volume varies according to air pressure, and thus the present invention enables maximizing the pressure-dispersion effect while stably supporting the buttocks and thighs through a hybrid structure.

Description

Cushion-type pressure ulcer prevention device with air pockets

[0001] The present invention relates to a cushion-type pressure sore prevention device having an air pocket, and more specifically, to a cushion-type pressure sore prevention device that stably supports the buttocks and thighs through the air pocket while maximizing the pressure distribution effect.

[0002] Pressure ulcers are injuries caused by continuous pressure on the skin or tissues, primarily affecting individuals who lie or sit for extended periods. They are mainly caused by stagnant blood circulation and are classified into stages based on progression or severity: redness (or stage 1), epidermal damage (or stage 2), dermal damage (or stage 3), and deep tissue damage (or stage 4). In the deep tissue damage stage, the most severe stage, the ulcer extends to deep tissues including muscles or bones, potentially exposing bones, ligaments, or even internal organs, which poses a very high risk of serious infection.

[0003] Therefore, it is very important to remove continuous and excessive pressure applied to a specific area to prevent and treat pressure ulcers. A representative method to disperse pressure applied to the skin or tissues to enhance the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers is using an air-inflated cushion (or mattress).

[0004] The pressure sore prevention cushion, which is inflated with air, is composed of air cells whose volume changes due to air pressure, and can prevent pressure sores by evenly distributing the user's body weight and preventing continuous pressure from being applied to the skin and tissues.

[0005] However, in the case of conventional pressure sore prevention cushions, it is difficult to verify whether the air pressure for pressure sore prevention is maintained consistently. If the air leaks out, protruding parts of the body, particularly the buttocks or greater trochanter, may come into contact with the floor (grounding), posing a risk of developing pressure sores. Additionally, elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and patients who are at risk of pressure sores due to difficulty controlling their own bodies may experience an unbalanced collapse of posture, leading to a risk of secondary problems such as pelvic deformation.

[0006] The present invention is proposed to solve the above problems and aims to provide stable support to the buttocks and thighs, unlike conventional anti-bedsore cushions, while further enhancing the pressure distribution effect.

[0007] The technical problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those mentioned above, and various technical problems may be included within the scope obvious to a person skilled in the art from the contents described below.

[0008] An air mattress according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a central air pocket; a left air pocket formed on one side of the central air pocket; a right air pocket formed on the other side of the central air pocket; and a plurality of air cells arranged in a matrix form.

[0009] In one embodiment, the plurality of air cells includes a central air cell, and the central air cell may not include a filler or may include less filler than the air cells in other zones.

[0010] In one embodiment, the central air cell can overlap with the central air pocket, the left air pocket, and the right air pocket.

[0011] In one embodiment, the central air cell may include an air cell corresponding to the central air pocket, an air cell corresponding to the left air pocket, and an air cell corresponding to the right air pocket.

[0012] In one embodiment, the central air cell may be formed at the rear.

[0013] In one embodiment, the boundary of the central air cell viewed from above may cross the boundary of the central air pocket, the left air pocket, and the right air pocket.

[0014] A cushion according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a base portion including a first base forming a seating portion and a second base formed along the perimeter of the seating portion; and an air mat surrounded by the second base; wherein the air mat includes at least one air cell whose volume changes due to air pressure.

[0015] A cushion according to one embodiment may further include a cover that encloses the base portion and the air mat.

[0016] It is preferable that the above base part be made of an elastic material.

[0017] According to one embodiment, at least two recesses may be formed in the first base; preferably, at least one of the recesses is formed at a position corresponding to the left ischial surface of the user, and the other at least one is formed at a position corresponding to the right ischial surface of the user.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the second base includes at least two non-pressure portions, and the non-pressure portions may be formed with a lower height compared to other components of the second base adjacent to the non-pressure portions, or may be in a shape that is recessed outward from the second base.

[0019] It is preferable that at least one of the above-mentioned non-pressurized parts be positioned to correspond to at least one of the user's coccyx or the left and right greater trochanter.

[0020] Additionally, at least one of the air cells may have part or all of its internal space filled with a filler to control the volume change caused by air pressure. In this case, the air cells are numerous, and the amount of filler filling the internal space of some of the air cells may be differential.

[0021] In addition, the above air cells may be numerous and may form a matrix structure of 5 rows and 6 columns.

[0022] An air mattress of a cushion according to one embodiment includes a plurality of air pockets, and each air pocket is connected to at least one air cell to apply air pressure to the air cell.

[0023] The above plurality of air pockets can be supplied with air pressure by connecting to separate nozzles from a single air pump.

[0024] A cushion according to one embodiment may further include a pressure regulating unit that is linked with the air pump and can regulate the air pressure supplied to each air pocket.

[0025] The above pressure control unit may include an input unit having at least one user input device; and a valve capable of opening and closing the air pump.

[0026] In addition, the above pressure control unit may further include a power supply unit; a display unit that informs the user of the current state of pressure applied to the cushion; and a control unit that receives power from the power supply unit, receives an input signal from the input unit, and controls the display unit and the valve.

[0027] In addition, the above pressure control unit may further include at least one pressure sensor capable of measuring the pressure applied to the air pocket.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the present invention, by dispersing the pressure exerted on the user's body, it prevents the risk of tissue damage such as bedsores when sitting for a long time and helps in treating bedsores, allows the user to feel psychological and physical comfort, and enables the elderly, disabled, and patients who have difficulty controlling their own bodies to use the bedsore prevention cushion alone without a caregiver.

[0029] One embodiment of the present invention is a mechanical structure in which a design comprehensively considered in three aspects—stability, floating support, and off-loading—is derived, and accordingly, an innovative pressure ulcer prevention effect can be expected.

[0030] In particular, according to one embodiment of the present invention, pressure at five points that are most problematic for bedsores when a patient is sitting can be taken into account, making it very effective in preventing blood circulation stagnation, which is the cause of bedsores.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a cushion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a cushion according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 3 is a drawing of a base portion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 4 is a drawing of a base portion according to embodiments other than FIG. 3.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a drawing of an air mat according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an air mattress according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an air mat, a nozzle, and a pressure control unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 8 is an internal view of a pressure control unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 9 is a drawing of a pressure control unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 10 is a drawing of an input unit and a display unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the interaction between the components of a pressure control unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0043] Shapes, sizes, ratios, angles, numbers, etc. disclosed in the drawings for explaining embodiments of the present invention are exemplary, and therefore the present invention is not limited to the depicted details. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same components. Furthermore, in describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art may unnecessarily obscure the essence of the present invention, such detailed description is omitted. Where terms such as "includes," "has," or "is made up" are used in this specification, other parts may be added unless "only" is used. Where a component is expressed in the singular, it includes cases where it is included in the plural unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0044] In interpreting the components, they are interpreted to include a margin of error even in the absence of a separate explicit statement.

[0045] In the case of describing positional relationships, for example, when the positional relationship between two parts is described using expressions such as 'on,' 'upper,' 'lower,' or 'next to,' one or more other parts may be located between the two parts unless 'immediately' or 'directly' is used.

[0046] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one component from another. Accordingly, the first component mentioned below may be the second component within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0047] In the present disclosure, expressions such as “A or B,” “at least one of A or / and B,” or “one or more of A or / and B” may include all possible combinations of items listed together. For example, “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” or “at least one of A or B” may refer to cases including (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) both at least one A and at least one B.

[0048] Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to identical or similar components.

[0049] The size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are illustrated for convenience of explanation, and the present invention is not necessarily limited to the size and thickness of the illustrated components.

[0050] The features of each of the various embodiments of the present invention may be combined or combined with one another, either partially or wholly, and as will be fully understood by those skilled in the art, various technical interlocking and operation are possible. Each embodiment may be implemented independently of one another or may be implemented together in an interrelationship.

[0051] In the present invention, elasticity refers to the property of changing shape when pressure is applied but returning to its original state or partially returning to its original state when the pressure is removed. Accordingly, an elastic material refers to a solid material or a material surrounded by a solid outer layer that changes shape when pressure is applied but returns to its original state or partially returns to its original state when the pressure is removed. The solid material may include rubber, sponge, carbon fiber, spring, silicone, etc.

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The plurality of embodiments described below may be applied in combination unless they conflict with one another.

[0053] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a cushion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 1, a cushion according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a base portion (100) and an air mattress (200), and the air mattress (200) includes a plurality of air cells (210) whose volume changes according to air pressure. In this way, the hybrid form consisting of the base portion (100) and the air mattress (200) allows the base portion (100) to support the user's body while the air mattress (200) regulates air pressure, thereby providing comfort to the user and helping blood circulation to prevent bedsores.

[0055] The air cell (210) can change its volume by being inflated by air and deflated by air. According to one embodiment, the air cell (210) is arranged in a matrix form on the air mattress (200). More specifically, a total of 30 air cells (210) can be arranged on the air mattress (200) in a matrix structure of 5 rows and 6 columns. The volume of each air cell (210) may be the same, but may be manufactured differently depending on the embodiment. By inflating and deflatoring the air mattress (200) and the air cell (210), while dispersing the pressure applied to the user's buttocks, the base part (100), particularly the second base, stably supports the user's buttocks and thighs, providing a stable user experience compared to a cushion made only of an air mattress, and prevents the occurrence of secondary symptoms or diseases caused by postural deformation.

[0056] The air cell (210) has its interior filled with a fluid, a filler, or a combination thereof, and its outer surface may be made of a material that is flame-retardant and has a high melting point. Additionally, it is desirable that the material be resistant to external impact and does not easily suffer damage such as tearing. It is preferable to use polyurethane foam or memory foam as the filler for the air cell (210).

[0057] The second base (120) may include a plurality of non-pressure parts (122a, 122b, 122c). The non-pressure parts (122a, 122b, 122c, 122d) are positioned to correspond to the user's body protrusions, specifically the user's right greater trochanter, left greater trochanter, and coccyx, when the user sits on the cushion. At this time, the non-pressure parts (122a, 122b, 122c) are formed to be lower in height relative to adjacent parts, thereby having the effect of reducing pressure that may occur on the user's body protrusions. The first non-pressure part (122a) corresponds to the right greater trochanter, the second non-pressure part (122b) corresponds to the left greater trochanter, and the third non-pressure part (123c) corresponds to the coccyx. Additionally, the second base (120) may include a leg support part (124), which corresponds to the rear of the thigh.

[0058] In FIG. 4, which will be described later, the non-pressure portions (121, 122, 123, 111a, 111b) are formed in a shape that is deeply recessed outward from the second base or base portion (100) to prevent bedsores that may occur on the protrusions of the user's body.

[0059] Additionally, a cushion according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a pressure regulating unit (400) connected to an air mat (200) and a nozzle (300). In one embodiment, the cushion includes three nozzles (300), each of which may be connected to three air pockets within the air mat. Additionally, the pressure regulating unit (400) may include a battery and may charge the battery by receiving electrical energy from an external source. At this time, the battery may be a lithium-ion battery, a lithium-polymer battery, a nickel-cadmium battery (NiCd), a nickel-metal hydride battery (NiMH), a lead-acid battery, a hydrogen fuel cell, etc.

[0060] The air pocket described above is formed beneath the surface of an air mat composed of multiple air cells and can serve to regulate the size of the air cells by corresponding to and distributing among the multiple air cells. More specifically, the volume of the air pocket increases only when air is supplied by an air pump, thereby causing the air cells to inflate. The air pocket may be manufactured from the same material as the surface material of the air cells and formed integrally, but it may also be manufactured from a separate part or material distinct from the surface material of the air cells and formed separately before being stacked.

[0061] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a cushion according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 2, a cushion according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a cover (500) that encloses a base portion (100) and an air mattress (200). The cover (500) may include a hole for exposing a nozzle (300) or a pressure regulating portion (400). The upper surface of the cover (500), which comes into direct contact with the user's body, may be made of a soft material or a waterproof material to ensure user comfort, and the upper surface or side surface may be made of a highly breathable material to maximize the effect of preventing bedsores. The lower surface of the cover (500) may be made of an anti-slip material or may additionally include an anti-slip portion to prevent the cushion from slipping on the floor, a chair, or a wheelchair, thereby ensuring user safety. The upper surface of the cover (500) may also be made of a flame-retardant material to further consider user safety. Including the cover (500) in this way provides the advantage of being easy to maintain, such as washing, in addition to providing a comfortable user experience. Additionally, the cover (500) may further include a fixing part for the case where the cushion according to one embodiment is attached to a wheelchair for use.

[0063] The non-pressure portions (121, 122, 123) may be formed to correspond to body protrusions. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the non-pressure portions (121, 122, 123) correspond to the right greater trochanter, the left greater trochanter, and the coccyx, respectively. Additionally, the leg support portion (124) may be formed to correspond to the positions of the rear portion of the right thigh and the rear portion of the left thigh.

[0064] FIG. 3 is a drawing of a base portion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] The base portion (100) may include a first base (110) and a second base (120). At least the second base (120) may be made of an elastic material, such as memory foam or rubber. Alternatively, the first base (110) forming the seating portion constituting the base portion (100) and the second base (120) formed along the perimeter of the seating portion may each be made of different materials. In this case, it is desirable that the material constituting the base portion (100) or the two or more materials constituting the first base (110) and the second base (120) all have minimal deformation due to temperature. Additionally, it is desirable that the shape may change when pressure is applied, but returns to its original state within a short time when the pressure is removed, without being significantly affected by the magnitude or duration of the pressure.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 3, the first base (110) may include two recesses (111a, 111b). The first recess (111a) is formed at a position corresponding to the left ischial tuberosity, and the second recess (111b) is formed at a position corresponding to the right ischial tuberosity. The recesses serve to relatively reduce pressure on the ischial bones, similar to the first to third non-pressurized parts (122a, 122b, 122c). That is, since the recesses are dug lower than other parts of the first base (110), even if air escapes from the part of the air mattress corresponding to the ischial bones, the pressure applied to the ischial bones is lower than when sitting on a regular chair. The recesses function together with the non-pressurized parts as five major pressure relief points (122a, 122b, 122c, 111a, 111b) to achieve one of the main functions of the cushion device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Additionally, a groove (115) for coupling with an air mat (200) may be formed in the first base (110). Alternatively, in another embodiment, a groove for coupling with an air mat (200) may be formed in the second base (120), or may be formed in both the first base (110) and the second base (120). That is, a protrusion for coupling with the groove may be formed at a certain point of the air mat (200), and the protrusion may be secured to the groove.

[0068] Alternatively, the base portion (100) may be fastened to the air mat (200) with a fastener, or the base portion (100) and the air mat (200) may be formed with Velcro attached, and the first base (110) and the air mat (200) may be fastened with Velcro. Alternatively, the base portion (100) and the air mat (200) may be joined in a manner that makes separation impossible, such as by thermoforming.

[0069] The first base (110) or the second base (120) may have a nozzle placement section (113) corresponding to the position of the nozzle (300). In one embodiment, three nozzle placement sections (113) may be formed corresponding to each of the three nozzles (300), or one nozzle placement section (113) may be formed to position multiple nozzles, or two or more may be formed for a single nozzle. For example, when a single nozzle comes into contact with both the first base (110) and the second base (120), one nozzle placement section (113) may be formed on the first base (110) and the second base (120) for the single nozzle, resulting in a total of two nozzle placement sections (113).

[0070] Additionally, the first base (110) or the second base may have a space (123) where the pressure control unit (400) can be located. At this time, it is preferable that the base (100) does not cover the input unit (410) and the display unit (420) of the pressure control unit, and may protect or combine components other than the input unit (410) and the display unit (420) of the pressure control unit (400), such as a valve (430) or an air pump (450). This also has a positive aesthetic effect.

[0071] FIG. 4 is a drawing of a base portion according to embodiments other than FIG. 3.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 4, the first non-pressure section (122a) and the second non-pressure section (122b) may include a wall surface along the outer circumference of the second base (120). In FIG. 4(a), the first non-pressure section (122a) and the second non-pressure section (122b) are formed to be thinner than the adjacent portion of the second base (120). Alternatively, the first non-pressure section (122a) and the second non-pressure section (122b) are recessed outward from the cushion, base section (100), or second base (120) compared to the adjacent portion of the second base (120). FIG. 4(b) illustrates an embodiment in which the first non-pressure section (122a) and the second non-pressure section (122b) are not thinner than the adjacent portion of the second base (120) but are recessed outward.

[0073] As in FIG. 4(c) or FIG. 4(d), the third non-pressure portion (122c) may also include a wall surface along the outer circumference of the second base (120). That is, the third non-pressure portion (122c) may be formed in a shape that is recessed outwardly toward the cushion, the base portion (100), or the second base (120).

[0074] The non-pressurized portions (122a, 122b, 122c) may be formed of a different material from the adjacent portion of the second base (120), or if formed of the same material, may have a difference in density so that when pressure is not applied, there is no difference in shape from the adjacent portion of the second base (120), but when pressure is applied, they may have a shape that is lower in height or indented outward compared to the adjacent portion of the second base (120).

[0075] FIG. 5 is a drawing of an air mat according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 5, among the 30 air cells (210) included in the air mat (200), the central air cells (210a), consisting of two central air cells placed in the rearmost row and four central air cells each placed in the two rows in front of them, contain no or very little filling material inside. As shown in FIG. 5, the volume of the central air cells (210a) decreases significantly when air is not supplied. In contrast, the perimeter air cells (210b) contain filling material inside, so their volume does not decrease significantly compared to the central air cells (210a) even when air is not supplied. In another embodiment, there may be intentional differences in the amount or shape of the filling material contained inside between the perimeter air cells (210b) that contain filling material inside. In this case, it is preferable that the filling material be an elastic material such as rubber, sponge, or a number of micro beads. Alternatively, in addition to the amount or shape of the filler, a difference in density can be introduced to create a difference in the amount of volume change due to air pressure between the perimeter air cells (210b). In this case, it is preferable to use polyurethane foam or memory foam as the material for the filler. The number or arrangement of the central air cells (210a) and the perimeter air cells (210b) is not limited to the examples described above.

[0077] In one embodiment, the air cell (210) may be formed as a cuboid with trapezoidal sides. Each air cell (210) is connected to one another, but when viewed individually, a single air cell may include a lower opening (211) through which air enters and exits, four trapezoidal sides (212), and an upper surface (213) capable of supporting the user's buttocks or thighs. To improve the user's seating comfort, a first connecting surface (214), which is flat or curved, may be formed at the four corners where the upper surface and the sides are connected. Similarly, a second connecting surface (215), which is flat or curved, may be formed at the corner where two sides meet. A apex surface (216), which is generally triangular in shape, may be formed at the point where adjacent first connecting surfaces (214) and second connecting surfaces (215) meet. The sides, upper surface, connecting surfaces, and apex surfaces organically change shape as the air cell expands, thereby supporting a portion of the user's buttocks or thighs.

[0078] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an air mattress according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 6, the amount or shape of the filler may vary for each air cell. The top height of the filler filled inside the air cell may be formed differently for each air cell; in this specification, an imaginary line drawn by connecting the tops of each air cell for each row and column is defined as a profile. In FIG. 6(a), moving from the front (F) to the rear (R) of the cushion, if the rows are referred to as the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth,

[0080] As shown in FIG. 6(b), the profile of the third row may have significantly higher ends and a significantly lower portion corresponding to the four air cells in the middle. Additionally, if the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth rows are referred to as moving from the left (LL) to the right (RR) of the cushion, the profile of the third row may be formed in a stepped shape as shown in FIG. 6(d), with a significantly higher front and a significantly lower portion corresponding to the three air cells at the rear.

[0081] The central air cell (210a) may be filled with a small amount of filler to at least partially relieve the pressure applied to both ischial bones and coccyx. Because of this function, it is preferable that the central air cell (210a) be formed at a location generally corresponding to the third non-pressurized portion (122c) and the recess (111).

[0082] In one embodiment, the internal filler may be used differently for each air cell. To achieve more effective pressure distribution, the profiles of each row and column may be designed to change gradually. For example, the profile may be shaped to correspond to the user's body structure, such as the shape of the buttocks or bone structure, as shown in FIG. 6(c). As shown in FIG. 6(e), the profile of the third column or each column may be designed to take into account the side view of the user's sitting posture.

[0083] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an air mat, a nozzle, and a pressure control unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 7, the air mattress (200) contains three air pockets (221, 222, 223) inside, but there is no limit to the number of air pockets. Each air pocket may be connected to an air pump inside the pressure control unit (400) through a separate nozzle (301, 302, 303). There may be more than one air pump, but it is preferable for all three air pockets (221, 222, 223) to be connected to a single air pump, as this increases the correspondence between the user's body movements and the movements of the air pockets and air cells.

[0085] In this way, when three or more air pockets are connected to a single air pump, the amount of air or air pressure injected into each air pocket through the nozzles (301, 302, 303) and the valve (430) can be adjusted to support individual control of each air pocket in addition to applying the same air pressure to the multiple air pockets, thereby effectively preventing bedsores in users who require personalized use (e.g., people with pelvic imbalance). The configuration of the present invention is not limited to the example described above, and there may be multiple air pumps, and in this case, the multiple air pumps may be connected to each air pocket. In one embodiment, the air pump is located inside the pressure control unit (400), but in another embodiment, it may be located outside the pressure control unit (400).

[0086] It is preferable that the air pockets include a central air pocket (221), a left air pocket (222), and a right air pocket (223).

[0087] The compartments of the air pockets and the compartments of the central air cell (210a) may differ. That is, as shown in FIG. 7, the boundaries of the air pockets and the compartments of the central air cell (210a), which generally have the least amount of filling material, may be unrelated. Specifically, the boundaries or compartments of the central air cell (210a) may cross the boundaries of each air pocket. In this case, when viewed from above, the compartments of the central air cell may exist across the air pockets. That is, the compartments of the central air cell may overlap with all the air pockets. By configuring it in this way, a more diverse combination of volume changes of the individual air cells corresponding to the central air cell (210a) can be realized. Additionally, through the flow of air between the air pockets, the user's buttocks can be massaged, and blood circulation in the protruding parts of the body, where pressure is most concentrated and pressure sores are likely to occur, can be improved.

[0088] FIG. 8 is an internal view of a pressure control unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 8, the pressure control unit (400) may include at least one valve (430). The valve (430) may include a gate valve that operates by opening and closing a gate in a straight flow, a ball valve that controls the flow using a rotating spherical ball, a butterfly valve that controls the flow using a rotating disc-shaped disk, etc. In one embodiment, the valve may be installed to correspond to each air pocket to control the air supplied within each air pocket. Also, in one embodiment, the valve (430) may be a solenoid valve (430) that controls the flow of air using the force of the magnetic field generated from the solenoid when an electric current flows and the solenoid coil is activated.

[0090] The pressure control unit (400) may further include a pressure sensor (440). In addition to a fluid pressure sensor or a gas pressure sensor, the pressure sensor (440) may further include a pressure transducer or a pressure transmitter, a mounting assembly, a protective casing, or various calibration and adjustment devices. The pressure sensor (440) may measure the air pressure applied to the air pocket to control the display unit (420) and the valve (430). The process of measuring the air pressure at the pressure sensor (440) and controlling the display unit and the valve (430) may be performed in the control unit within the pressure control unit (400).

[0091] The air pump (450) is connected to the solenoid valve (430) and the pressure sensor (440) through a hose through which air passes, and may be located inside or outside the pressure control unit (400). For the portability of the cushion, the power supply unit (460) is preferably configured in the form of a rechargeable battery as shown in FIG. 8. Accordingly, the power supply unit (460) may be a lithium-ion battery, a lithium-polymer battery, a nickel-cadmium battery (NiCd), a nickel-metal hydride battery (NiMH), a lead-acid battery, or a hydrogen fuel cell, but is not limited thereto.

[0092] FIG. 9 is a drawing of a pressure control unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 9, the pressure control unit (400) may include an input unit (410) and a display unit (420) for input and output for a user. The control unit within the pressure control unit (400) may control the display unit (420) based on data input from the input unit (410), the pressure sensor (440), or the power supply unit (460) to provide a warning or notification to the user, or control the air pressure applied within the air pocket by controlling the valve (430) or the air pump (450). The valve (430) or the air pump (450) may supply air to the air pocket through the nozzles (301, 302, 303) and may control the air pressure by allowing air to be discharged outside the cushion through the discharge port (470) included in the pressure control unit (400).

[0094] If the pressure control unit (400) includes a power supply unit (460), the power supply unit (460) may be connected to an external power device through a connector (461). In this case, the external power device may be a power adapter, a power supply unit (PSU), an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), a battery pack, a converter, or a generator, but is not limited thereto.

[0095] FIG. 10 is a drawing of an input unit and a display unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 10, the input section (410) and the display section (420) may be formed in the same location for the convenience of the user. The input section (410) includes input devices such as buttons, dials, switches, touchscreens, joysticks, keyboards, touchpads, and microphones. The input devices may include a power input device (411), an air pressure mode control device (412, 413), an air volume control device (414), etc.

[0097] The display unit (420) may include output devices such as lighting, a speaker, a text display unit, and a display panel. In one embodiment, the display unit (420) is a light-emitting diode (LED) light that lights up when certain conditions are met, thereby displaying to the user the current state of pressure applied to the cushion. The output devices may include an air pressure mode display device (421, 422), an air volume display device (423, 424), a power supply display device (425, 426), a posture adjustment warning device (427), etc. In particular, the posture adjustment warning device (427) operates based on pressure values ​​measured by a plurality of pressure sensors, and may operate, for example, when the pressure difference between the left air pocket (222) and the right air pocket (223) is greater than a threshold value and persists for a certain period of time. Since the posture adjustment warning device (427) can detect a posture imbalance of the user and warn the user, the effect of the warning can be enhanced by using a different color from at least one of the other output devices (421, 422, 423, 424, 425, 426) in the display unit, in the case of a light-emitting diode light. For example, when the air pressure mode display device (421, 422) and the air volume display device (423, 424) use green light, the posture adjustment warning device (427) can use red light. Alternatively, multiple colors of light can be used to correspond to each stage of the posture adjustment warning.

[0098] If the display unit (420) or the posture adjustment warning device (427) includes a voice output device such as a speaker, when the cushion detects a posture imbalance of the user, the posture adjustment warning device (427) can generate a voice alarm through the voice output device to warn the user.

[0099] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the interaction between the components of a pressure control unit according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] In FIG. 11, the dotted line represents the flow of electrical energy and electrical signals, and the solid line represents the flow of air through the connected hose. The control unit (480), which receives electrical energy from the power supply unit (460), displays information related to electrical energy, such as the remaining battery level, on the display unit (420). A user who confirms that electrical energy has been supplied to the control unit (480) through the display unit (420) can control the cushion by transmitting an electrical signal to the control unit (480) through the input unit (410). The user can operate the air pressure automatic mode control device (412) of the input unit (410) to control the air pressure within each air pocket according to a method stored in the control unit.

[0101] In one embodiment, the automatic mode executed by a user operating the air pressure automatic mode control device (412) may operate by repeating a circulation mode in which the central valve (431) and the left and right valves (432, 433) alternately open and close to circulate air between air pockets when there is no separate user input, and a standby mode in which there is no movement of the air pump (450) and the valves (431, 432, 433). For example, the automatic mode may operate by repeating a circulation mode for 15 minutes and a standby mode for 20 minutes.

[0102] In addition, in one embodiment, the basic mode executed by the user operating the air pressure basic mode control device (413) may allow the user to manually adjust the air volume through the air volume control device (414). The air volume control device (414) may be in the form of a button, and the amount of air in the air pocket may be increased or decreased each time the button is pressed. To increase the amount of air in the air pocket, the air pump (450) may be operated while the discharge valve (434) is closed, and to decrease the amount of air in the air pocket, all valves (431, 432, 433, 434) may be opened while the air pump (450) is not operating.

[0103] For the safety of the user, each pressure sensor (441, 442, 443) measures the pressure applied to the air pocket, and the control unit (480) can transmit information, such as warning the user to adjust their posture through the display unit (420). In one embodiment, the control unit (480) can operate the posture adjustment warning device (427) to warn the user to adjust their posture if the pressure measured by the left pressure sensor (442) and the pressure measured by the right pressure sensor (443) remain above a threshold for a certain period of time or longer.

[0104] The posture adjustment warning device (427) can be operated when there is no change in the user's posture for a certain period of time or longer, and the certain period is preferably within 15 minutes and within 30 minutes to obtain the optimal effect according to the present invention.

[0105] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. It is understood that various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the essence of the invention as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical spirit or perspective of the present invention.

Claims

1. Central air pocket; A left air pocket formed on one side of the central air pocket above; A right air pocket formed on the other side of the central air pocket above; and An air mat comprising a plurality of air cells arranged in a matrix form.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above plurality of air cells includes a central air cell, and An air mattress in which the central air cell above does not contain filler or contains less filler than the air cells in other zones.

3. In Paragraph 2, An air mattress in which the central air cell overlaps with the central air pocket, the left air pocket, and the right air pocket.

4. In Paragraph 3, An air mattress comprising all of the above central air cells, the air cell corresponding to the central air pocket, the air cell corresponding to the left air pocket, and the air cell corresponding to the right air pocket.

5. In Paragraph 2, The above central air cell is an air mattress formed at the rear.

6. In Paragraph 2, An air mattress in which the boundary of the central air cell, viewed from above, crosses the boundary of the central air pocket, the left air pocket, and the right air pocket.

7. Including an air mattress according to any one of paragraphs 1 through 6, A cushion in which each air pocket is connected to at least one of the plurality of air cells to apply air pressure to the at least one air cell.

8. In Paragraph 7, A cushion further comprising a pressure regulator that is linked to an air pump and can regulate the air pressure supplied to each air pocket.

9. In Paragraph 8, A cushion further comprising a nozzle connecting each of the above air pockets to an air pump.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above nozzle is a cushion that connects each air pocket to a single air pump.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above pressure regulating unit comprises: an input unit having at least one user input device; and a valve capable of opening and closing the air pump; a cushion.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above pressure regulating unit is, Power supply unit; A display unit that informs the user of the current pressure applied to the cushion; and A cushion further comprising: a control unit that receives power from the power supply unit, receives an input signal from the input unit, and controls the display unit and the valve.

13. In Paragraph 11, The above pressure regulating unit further comprises at least one pressure sensor capable of measuring pressure applied to an air pocket.

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