Multi-layer support system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Patients confined to bed for extended periods are at risk of developing decubitus ulcers due to pressure that interrupts blood supply to skin capillaries, exacerbated by moisture and heat, which existing technologies fail to adequately address.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer support system comprising a vapor-permeable and liquid-impermeable first layer, a vapor-impermeable and liquid-impermeable second layer, and an air mover that creates channels between the layers to facilitate the removal of moisture, vapor, and heat, with optional cellular cushioning and antimicrobial properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If an air mover is added to pull air through channels, then moisture and heat removal is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The air mover component creates air flow through the channels between layers using pneumatic principles. This active air movement enhances the removal of moisture vapor and heat from the patient surface by forcing air through the channel network, significantly improving the effectiveness of the vapor-permeable layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a third dimension by creating channels between layers rather than relying solely on single-layer permeability. The air mover operates in this inter-layer space, pulling air through the channel network to enhance moisture and heat removal without requiring the patient-contacting layer itself to be more complex.
2Reliability
If multiple layers are used to address moisture and heat, then ulcer prevention is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into multiple functional layers: a first layer (vapor-permeable, liquid-impermeable) for vapor removal, a second layer (vapor-impermeable, liquid-impermeable) for liquid blocking and cushioning, and an air mover component for active vapor extraction. This segmentation allows each layer to specialize in one function, resolving the contradiction between vapor permeability and liquid impermeability.
Solution Approach 2:
The second layer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a vapor barrier, provides liquid moisture blocking, offers cushioning through cellular structure, and forms the walls of the air channels. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying manufacturing despite the multi-layer construction.
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
The system effectively reduces the risk of decubitus ulcer formation by removing moisture and heat, promoting a healthier skin environment and preventing maceration, while also being suitable for use with various support surfaces and seating applications.
Implementation Method 1
a first layer (110) comprising a vapor-permeable and liquid-impermeable material
Implementation Method 2
a second layer (120) comprising a vapor-impermeable and liquid-impermeable material
Implementation Method 3
the air mover is configured to pull air through the plurality of channels formed between the first layer and the second layer and toward the air mover
Implementation Method 4
the second layer further comprises a cellular cushioning material
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments, a support system includes a multi-layer support system with a number of layers. Systems and methods of removing moisture vapor from an environment surrounding patient are disclosed that accomplish such removal.