Removable Moisture Detection Sheet for Hospital Bed Skin Safety
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Prolonged bed confinement leads to excessive moisture accumulation, increasing the risk of skin erosion, fungal infections, and pressure ulcers due to inadequate moisture sensing and alarming systems.
Innovation Solution
A moisture detection system integrated into a person-support surface, comprising a ticking layer, a core layer, and a removable moisture detection sheet with connected sensors that communicate with a controller, which can activate an air blower and alarming unit to address moisture and pressure changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If moisture sensing devices are implemented in bed confinement systems, then moisture detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines moisture sensors, pressure sensors, and alarm systems into an integrated mattress assembly. The moisture detection sheet is embedded within the mattress structure, merging multiple functions (moisture sensing, pressure sensing, and alarming) into a single unified device, thereby improving detection capability while managing system complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The mattress assembly serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, detects moisture levels, detects pressure points, and triggers alarms. This multi-functional design allows a single device to address various patient care needs simultaneously, improving overall system capability without requiring separate dedicated devices for each function.
2Reliability
If continuous moisture monitoring is implemented, then patient safety is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic monitoring rather than continuous constant monitoring. The moisture sensors continuously detect moisture levels, but the alarm system is triggered only when predetermined thresholds are exceeded. This periodic alarm activation based on threshold conditions maintains patient safety while reducing unnecessary energy consumption from continuous alarming and data processing.
3Ease of manufacture
If a removable moisture detection sheet is used, then ease of cleaning is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The moisture detection system is divided into a removable detection sheet that can be separated from the main mattress body. This segmentation allows the detection sheet to be easily removed for cleaning or replacement without affecting the entire mattress structure. The sensors are connected through robust interfaces that maintain electrical connectivity while allowing for easy separation and reattachment.
Data Source
AI summary
A moisture detection system for use on a hospital bed includes a person support surface comprising a core layer and a ticking layer. The ticking layer has an inner surface facing the core layer and an outer surface. In one embodiment the moisture detection system also includes a moisture detection sheet which has at least one moisture sensor connected thereto. The sheet is configured to be mounted to at least one of A) the core layer, B) external to the outer surface and C) between the ticking layer and the core layer. A controller is in communication with the moisture detection sensor, and with at least one pre-existing pressure sensor. In another embodiment the moisture detection system includes a detection sheet comprising a fabric which is configured to sense moisture, pressure or both. A controller is in communication with the detection sheet.