Multi-Layer Bed Support for Moisture and Heat Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Patients confined to beds for extended periods are at risk of developing decubitus ulcers due to pressure that interrupts blood flow, and moisture and heat exacerbate these ulcers, leading to skin maceration and other issues.
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 the second layer featuring air-filled protrusions for enhanced airflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If an air mover is added to pull air through channels, then airflow and moisture removal are enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
An air mover component is introduced as an intermediary device that actively pulls air through channels formed between the first and second layers. This mediator enhances moisture vapor removal from the patient surface by creating controlled airflow through the layered structure, improving productivity while maintaining a manageable system through modular design.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If channels are formed between layers for airflow, then vapor removal is improved, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second layers are constructed as flexible, thin film structures that can form channels between them while maintaining their structural integrity. These flexible shells allow airflow passage for vapor removal while preserving the overall stability and composition of the layered support system structure.
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 prevents and treats decubitus ulcers by promoting moisture and heat removal, reducing pressure on the skin, and enhancing airflow to prevent skin maceration, thereby improving patient comfort and reducing ulcer formation and healing time.
Implementation Method 1
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 2
a first layer comprising a vapor-permeable and liquid-impermeable material
Implementation Method 3
the second layer further comprises a plurality of protrusions, said protrusions being air-filled encapsulated volumes
Data Source
Figure 1A~2
Figure 3~4A
Figure 4B~5
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.