Support Surface Cover With Moisture Vapor Permeable Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support surface covers often compromise the performance of the underlying surface while attempting to reduce pressure ulcers by adding additional layers to address moisture, heat, and shear.
Innovation Solution
A support surface cover with a moisture vapor permeable, liquid impermeable material and a low friction surface, designed to engage the support surface without impeding its performance, while optionally reducing shear through elastic properties and positioning systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If additional layers are added to the support surface to address moisture, heat and shear, then the risk of pressure ulcers is reduced, but the performance of the underlying support surface is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support surface system is divided into distinct functional layers: the original support surface (mattress/cushion) and an overlay cover with specific moisture-wicking and low-friction properties. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specialized function without compromising the other, reducing pressure ulcers while maintaining support surface performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The overlay cover is constructed from composite materials including moisture vapor permeable layers, liquid impermeable membranes, and low-friction surfaces. These composite materials provide multiple protective functions (moisture management, shear reduction, temperature regulation) in a single integrated component that does not compromise the underlying support surface.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a moisture vapor permeable, liquid impermeable material is used in the cover, then moisture buildup is reduced, but the complexity of the cover structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover incorporates thin film membranes that are moisture vapor permeable but liquid impermeable. These flexible thin films provide effective moisture management by allowing vapor to escape while blocking liquid penetration, achieving the desired moisture control with minimal structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The moisture vapor permeable, liquid impermeable material acts as an intermediary layer between the patient and the external environment. This intermediate layer manages moisture transfer effectively while maintaining a simple overall cover structure that integrates seamlessly with the existing support surface.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a low friction surface is added to allow the panel to slide on the support surface, then shear is reduced, but the friction needed for positioning is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cover design incorporates a dynamic friction characteristic: the low-friction surface enables easy sliding and repositioning of the patient across the support surface, while the elastic properties of the carrier material provide sufficient grip and control during positioning maneuvers. This dynamic behavior allows the same surface to facilitate both easy movement and controlled positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover material properties are optimized to provide variable friction characteristics: low static friction for easy initiation of movement, and controlled kinetic friction during sliding. The elastic carrier material's tension and stretch properties are adjusted to provide appropriate resistance during positioning while maintaining low friction during patient relocation.
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 cover effectively reduces moisture and temperature buildup, and optionally shear, at the patient/support surface interface, thereby reducing the risk of pressure ulcers without compromising the underlying support surface's performance.
Implementation Method 1
The panel comprises a moisture vapor permeable, liquid impermeable material
Implementation Method 2
The second side having a low friction surface to allow the panel to slide on the support surface
Implementation Method 3
The carrier comprises a stretchy material, such as a stretchy knit fabric
Data Source
AI summary
A cover system includes a base sheet, which is adapted to cover an underlying mattress, and a top sheet configured to wick away moisture and to cooperate with the base sheet to reduce shear on a patient supported on the cover system.