Vacuum-Activated Particle Formable Layer for Patient Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient positioning systems, such as those using preformed supports and inflatable bladders, are cumbersome to install, operate, and store, and often fail to maintain a desired shape over time.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a flexible cover layer and a formable layer with a sealed bladder and particles that move relative to each other to alter the shape of the system, with the ability to provide a vacuum to maintain rigidity and support the patient's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If preformed supports with flexibility or resiliency are used, then comfort is improved, but the predefined shape is not adequately maintained over time
Solution Approach 1:
The support system dynamically transitions between a relaxed state (for comfort) and a rigid state (for shape maintenance) through vacuum application. The formable layer with particles can be activated to provide rigidity when needed, resolving the contradiction between comfort and shape stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical state of the formable layer particles is changed by applying vacuum, transforming the system from a compliant state to a rigid state. This parameter change allows the same structure to provide both comfort and shape maintenance capabilities.
2Manufacturing precision
If inflatable bladders are used to conform to patient anatomy, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the system becomes cumbersome to install, operate, and store
Solution Approach 1:
The formable layer with particles is integrated directly into the support structure, merging the positioning function with the support surface itself. This eliminates the need for separate inflatable bladders and reduces system complexity while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex inflatable bladder components are extracted and replaced with a simpler particle-based formable layer that achieves conformability through vacuum-induced rigidity rather than inflation, reducing installation and operation complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If removable bladders are positioned atop the support surface, then adaptability to different patients is improved, but the system requires patient transfer or temporary repositioning during placement
Solution Approach 1:
The formable layer is pre-positioned within the support structure before patient placement. The vacuum can be applied immediately upon patient contact, eliminating the need for time-consuming placement procedures and patient transfers required by removable bladders.
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 maintains a clinically suitable position of the patient by providing adjustable and rigid support, reducing the need for external devices and minimizing shape loss over time.
Implementation Method 1
a sealed bladder adapted to be in fluid communication with a vacuum source for selectively providing a vacuum to the sealed bladder
Implementation Method 2
the particles contact one another to provide rigidity to the formable layer to maintain the contour provided to the support surface
Data Source
AI summary
A system for supporting and positioning a person. A flexible cover layer defines a support surface for the person, and a formable layer is coupled to the flexible cover layer. The formable layer includes a sealed bladder adapted to be in fluid communication with a vacuum source, and particles disposed within the sealed bladder. The system is operable in a first configuration in the absence of the vacuum, and a second configuration in the presence of the vacuum. In the first configuration, the particles are substantially movable relative to one another such that a contour may be provided to the support surface. In the second configuration, substantially immovable relative to provide rigidity to the formable layer to maintain the contour. A controller coupled to sensors may control the vacuum source to move said system between the first and second configurations. Methods of supporting and positioning the person are also disclosed.