Programmable mattress adjustment apparatus and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for alleviating pressure points and bed sores during sleep are cumbersome, expensive, and lack programmable capabilities, making them difficult to manufacture, install, and maintain, while also not providing easy control or variety in mattress adjustment programs.
Innovation Solution
A programmable mattress adjustment apparatus using linear actuators controlled by a programmable logic controller (PLC) that can be programmed to adjust the mattress in various sequences, allowing for independent or coordinated movement of mattress portions, with remote control access for wireless programming and sequence sharing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulic systems with master and slave cylinders are used to rock the entire bed, then pressure points can be alleviated, but the device becomes cumbersome and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The mattress is divided into multiple independently controllable sections (head section, foot section, and optionally side sections). Each section can be adjusted separately by individual actuators, allowing pressure relief at specific locations without requiring complex whole-bed rocking mechanisms. This segmentation enables targeted pressure management while simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that automatically detect pressure points and trigger mattress adjustments without requiring external control or complex hydraulic systems. The mattress adjusts itself based on sensor feedback, eliminating the need for cumbersome manual operation or sophisticated control mechanisms while maintaining effective pressure relief.
2Reliability
If frequent turning of patients is performed to prevent bed sores, then bed sore risk is reduced, but healthcare costs increase and sleep is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The mattress performs automatic, periodic adjustments at predetermined intervals or when pressure points are detected, redistributing body pressure without requiring full patient turning. This periodic micro-adjustment approach prevents bed sores by maintaining pressure variation while allowing patients to remain in their preferred sleeping position, thereby avoiding sleep interruption and reducing healthcare costs associated with frequent manual turning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical action of manual patient turning with an automated mattress adjustment mechanism. Sensors detect pressure distribution, and actuators automatically modify mattress support characteristics to prevent bed sores, eliminating the need for physical patient repositioning by caregivers and preserving continuous sleep.
3Ease of operation
If a person maintains a fixed sleeping position, then restful sleep is achieved, but pressure points and discomfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mattress incorporates pressure sensors that continuously monitor body contact points and provide feedback to the control system. When pressure thresholds are exceeded, the system automatically adjusts the mattress configuration to redistribute pressure, allowing the patient to maintain their sleeping position while dynamically preventing pressure point formation through real-time feedback-driven adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The mattress transitions from a static support surface to a dynamic one that continuously adapts to the sleeper's position and pressure distribution. Actuators modify mattress firmness, elevation, or configuration in real-time based on detected needs, enabling the mattress to accommodate fixed sleeping positions while actively preventing pressure point development through continuous adaptation.
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 solution provides a cost-effective, easy-to-manufacture and maintain system that offers customizable mattress adjustments to alleviate pressure points and promote restful sleep without frequent patient turning, reducing the risk of bed sores and discomfort associated with specific sleeping positions.
Implementation Method 1
A programmable mattress adjustment apparatus includes a series of linear actuators attached to a mattress of a bed
Data Source
AI summary
A bed adjustment apparatus and method includes a linear actuator attached to a bed to move a portion of a mattress. A control box activates the linear actuator based on commands and sequences received from a remote control. The control box optionally includes a PLC to store the commands and sequences. The remote control optionally communicates wirelessly with the control box. The remote control allows a user to select and send the control box commands and sequences to control the linear actuator. The sequences are pre-installed, user programmed, received from another remote, or downloaded as desired. The apparatus allows a user to alleviate pressure points during sleep without requiring the user to adjust their sleeping position by adjusting the mattress based on a selected sequence.