Mattress Microclimate Layering for Moisture and Pressure Ulcer Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microclimate management systems for mattresses are inefficient and costly, failing to effectively manage moisture and temperature in the microenvironment around the occupant, leading to issues such as skin wounds and pressure ulcers in bedridden patients.
Innovation Solution
A microclimate management system with a top layer, intermediate air diffusion layer, and bottom air distribution manifold that includes air distribution conduits arranged in a predetermined pattern to regulate moisture and temperature, featuring moisture and air permeability, and attachment elements for removability and adjustability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a microclimate management system is implemented to manage moisture and temperature, then skin wound prevention improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the mattress into multiple functional layers: a top layer with moisture-wicking properties, an intermediate air diffusion layer, and a bottom air distribution manifold with multiple conduits. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall system manageable through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes porous materials in the top layer and intermediate air diffusion layer to enable moisture vapor transmission and air flow. These porous structures passively manage moisture and temperature without requiring complex active control mechanisms, thereby improving skin health outcomes while limiting system complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple air distribution conduits are arranged in predetermined patterns, then microclimate management effectiveness improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The air distribution manifold is divided into multiple separate conduits arranged in specific patterns (e.g., grid, radial, or zoned configurations). Each conduit can be manufactured independently using standard molding techniques, and then assembled into the final manifold structure, balancing manufacturing ease with effective microclimate control.
Solution Approach 2:
The air distribution manifold design uses standardized conduit components that can serve multiple functions: distributing pressurized air for pressure ulcer prevention, enabling air flow for moisture management, and providing structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, simplifying manufacturing.
3Productivity
If pressurized air is used for microclimate management, then moisture removal effectiveness improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic or intermittent pressurized air cycles rather than continuous pressurization. The air pump operates in cycles, delivering pressurized air pulses through the distribution manifold to maintain moisture vapor pressure gradients. This periodic action achieves effective moisture removal while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Once pressurized air is introduced into the intermediate layer, the system leverages natural pressure gradients and vapor pressure differentials to drive moisture vapor transmission through the porous layers. The pressurized air essentially 'primes' the system, after which passive diffusion and vapor pressure-driven flow perform much of the moisture removal work, reducing ongoing energy requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively manages moisture and temperature in the microclimate, reducing the risk of skin wounds and pressure ulcers by maintaining a dry and comfortable environment for bedridden patients.
Implementation Method 1
air distributed to the intermediate air diffusion layer via the bottom air distribution manifold diffuses throughout the intermediate air diffusion layer
Implementation Method 2
the top layer is moisture permeable
Implementation Method 3
the microclimate management system is configured to remove moisture that permeates the top layer
Implementation Method 4
a bottom air distribution manifold mountable with the occupant support and having a plurality of air distribution conduits, each extending at least partially through the occupant support upwardly towards the occupant receiving surface for distributing air to the intermediate air diffusion layer
Data Source
AI summary
A microclimate management system for an occupant support is provided with a top layer, an intermediate air diffusion layer operatively interposable between the top layer and the occupant support, and a bottom air distribution manifold extending through the occupant support for distributing air to the intermediate air diffusion layer. There is also provided a microclimate management overlay for an occupant support having a bottom air distribution assembly mountable over the occupant support and configured for circulating air upwardly, an intermediate air diffusion layer operatively mountable above the bottom air distribution assembly for enabling air diffusion from the bottom air distribution assembly, and a top layer mountable above the intermediate air diffusion layer. There is also provided a foam support having a base foam and a seat foam insert that enables pressure redistribution to the base foam. An air pump module is also provided.