Patient Support with Inflatable Bladders for Pressure Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional patient support systems in hospitals lack the ability to provide customizable pressure relief and real-time pressure control, accommodating varying patient sizes and bed configurations, which can lead to inadequate support and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A patient support system comprising a cover, a body with inflatable bladders, and a pneumatic device that includes a supply tube for low-pressure air, sensors for pressure monitoring, and a control unit for adjusting air pressure to ensure optimal support and comfort, allowing for customization based on patient size and bed configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional patient support systems are used, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability to different patient sizes and bed configurations is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patient support system is divided into multiple independently controllable air cells or zones that can be adjusted separately. Each zone can be inflated or deflated independently to accommodate different patient sizes and bed configurations, providing customizable support while managing complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable air pressure control mechanisms that allow real-time modification of support characteristics. The air cells can be dynamically inflated or deflated based on patient needs and bed configuration requirements, enabling adaptability without requiring multiple fixed designs
2Ease of operation
If customizable pressure relief is implemented, then the patient comfort is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Pressure sensors are integrated into the patient support system to monitor pressure distribution in real-time. The sensor data feeds back to a control mechanism that automatically adjusts air pressure in specific zones to maintain optimal comfort and prevent pressure sores, reducing the need for manual adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes physical parameters (air pressure, cell volume) dynamically to provide customizable pressure relief. By controlling the air pressure in each zone independently, the system can adapt to different patient weights, positions, and comfort requirements without adding mechanical complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If real-time pressure control is added, then the support precision is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than continuous adjustment, the system employs periodic or intermittent pressure adjustments based on sensor feedback and predetermined protocols. Air pressure is modified at specific intervals or when threshold conditions are met, reducing energy consumption while maintaining precise support where needed
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 provides customizable pressure relief and real-time pressure control, enhancing patient comfort and support by accommodating different patient sizes and bed configurations, and includes features for easy transportation and storage.
Implementation Method 1
a pneumatic device that includes a supply tube for low-pressure air, sensors for pressure monitoring, and a control unit for adjusting air pressure
Implementation Method 2
The delivery tube includes a plurality of apertures configured to vent the air received from the supply tube around the bladders
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure describes certain exemplary embodiments of a patient support having a plurality of vertically-oriented on substantially can-shaped inflatable bladders. In one embodiment, the patient support includes a support layer positioned above the vertical bladders. In another embodiment, the patient support includes a high air loss device. In still another embodiment, the patient support includes a pneumatic device located within the patient support.