MATTRESS WITH VALVE SYSTEM

Abstract

A mattress includes a support surface for supporting the body of a patient, a plurality of inflatable cells arranged below the support surface, and a valve system. The plurality of inflatable cells are arranged in layers including a first layer of inflatable cells arranged below the support surface and a second layer of inflatable cells arranged below the first layer, wherein each inflatable cell of the first layer is arranged above at least one cell of the second layer. The valve system includes a plurality of valves, each valve being fluidly connected to one of the inflatable cells of the first and second layers and each valve being controllable to enable inflation and deflation of the inflatable cell.

Claims

1. A mattress comprising: a support surface for supporting the body of a patient; a plurality of inflatable cells arranged below the support surface, the plurality of inflatable cells being arranged in layers comprising: a first layer of inflatable cells arranged below the support surface; and a second layer of inflatable cells arranged below the first layer, wherein each inflatable cell of the first layer is arranged above at least one cell of the second layer; and a valve system comprising a plurality of valves, each valve being fluidly connected to an inflatable cell of the second layer of the plurality of inflatable cells and each valve being controllable to enable inflation and deflation of the inflatable cell such that the inflatable cells of the second layer are selectively deflatable on actuating the valves of the valve system, wherein the mattress comprises a prone therapy region comprising at least a portion of the first layer of inflatable cells and a portion of the second layer of inflatable cells, the portion of the second layer being below the portion of the first layer, wherein one or more of the valves of the valve system is fluidly connected to an inflatable cell of the second layer in the prone therapy region, and wherein adjacent cells of the first layer in the prone therapy region are held together.

2. The mattress of claim 1, wherein in the prone therapy region each inflatable cell of the first layer of inflatable cells is fluidly connected to a valve of the valve system, such that the valve system is configured to selectively enable inflation and deflation of each of the inflatable cells of the first layer individually.

3. The mattress of claim 1, wherein adjacent cells of the first layer in the prone therapy region are bonded together.

4. The mattress of claim 1, wherein the valve system comprises one or more multiway valves, each multiway valve being fluidly connected to an inflatable cell of the first layer in the prone therapy region, and each multiway valve comprising: an inlet connectable to a fluid supply device; and a plurality of outlets, one of the outlets being connected to the inflatable cell of the first layer, one of the outlets being connected to a first one of the cells of the second layer, one of the outlets being connected to an exhaust, and one of the outlets being connected to a second one of the cells of the second layer, wherein each multiway valve is configured to selectively direct fluid from the inlet to one of the plurality of outlets.

5. The mattress of claim 4, wherein in the prone therapy region: the first and second layers of inflatable cells comprise the same number of inflatable cells; each inflatable cell of the second layer is arranged below a corresponding inflatable cell of the first layer; the valve system comprises a plurality of the multiway valves; and each inflatable cell of the first layer is fluidly connected to one of the multiway valves of the valve system, such that the valve system is configured to selectively enable inflation and deflation of each of the inflatable cells of the first layer individually.

6. The mattress of claim 5, wherein in the prone therapy region each multiway valve is arranged such that the first and second ones of the inflatable cells of the second layer that are fluidly connected to outlets of the multiway valve are arranged on opposite sides of the inflatable cell of the second layer that is arranged below the inflatable cell of the first layer that is fluidly connected to an outlet of the multiway valve.

7. The mattress of claim 1, wherein: the mattress has a length extending from a head end to a foot end; the first layer of inflatable cells are arranged side-by-side in a row along the length of the mattress from the head end to the foot end; and the second layer of inflatable cells are arranged side-by-side in a row along the length of the mattress from the head end to the foot end.

8. The mattress of claim 1, wherein at least one of: the inflatable cells of the second layer extend substantially in the direction of the width of the mattress; and the inflatable cells of the first layer extend substantially in the direction of the width of the mattress.

9. The mattress of claim 1, wherein: the mattress has a length and the mattress is divided along its length into at least four zones; and the second layer of inflatable cells comprises at least four inflatable cells, the second layer comprising at least one inflatable cell in each zone of the mattress.

10. The mattress of claim 9, wherein adjacent inflatable cells of the first layer are secured together.

11. The mattress of claim 1, wherein the plurality of inflatable cells further comprise a third layer comprising at least one inflatable cell, wherein each inflatable cell of the second layer is arranged above at least one inflatable cell of the third layer.

12. A mattress system comprising: the mattress as claimed in claim 1; and a fluid supply device comprising: a compressor fluidly connectable to the plurality of inflatable cells and operable to supply fluid to the plurality of inflatable cells to inflate the cells; and a controller configured to control the supply of fluid to the inflatable cells to control inflation and deflation of the cells.

13. The mattress system of claim 12, wherein the fluid supply device comprises one or more fluid supply conduits, each fluid supply conduit comprising an inlet for connection to the compressor and a plurality of outlets, each inflatable cell being fluidly connected to a fluid supply conduit of the fluid supply device.

14. The mattress system of claim 12, wherein: the controller is configured to supply fluid to the first layer of inflatable cells in one of a continuous pressure mode, in which the cells of the first layer are inflated at a substantially continuous pressure, and an alternating-pressure mode, in which cells of the first layer are inflated and deflated simultaneously, and in alternation; the controller is configured to supply fluid to the second layer of inflatable cells in a continuous pressure mode, in which the cells of the first layer are inflated at a substantially continuous pressure; adjacent cells of the first layer are held together; and the inflatable cells of the second layer are selectively deflatable on actuating the valves of the valve system.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0118] The disclosure will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0119] FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of a mattress according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0120] FIG. 2 shows a schematic illustration of the mattress of FIG. 1 with some inflatable cells of the second layer deflated;

[0121] FIG. 3 shows a schematic illustration of the mattress of FIG. 2 supporting a patient in the prone position;

[0122] FIG. 4 shows a schematic illustration of a multiway valve for a mattress of a second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0123] FIG. 5 shows a schematic illustration of a mattress of a second embodiment of the present disclosure comprising a plurality of the multiway valves of FIG. 4;

[0124] FIG. 6 shows a schematic illustration of a mattress of FIG. 5 with some inflatable cells of the first layer deflated and some inflatable cells of the second layer inflated;

[0125] FIG. 7 shows a schematic illustration of the mattress of FIG. 5 configured to support a patient in the prone position;

[0126] FIG. 8 shows a schematic illustration of the mattress of FIG. 7 supporting a patient in the prone position;

[0127] FIG. 9 shows a schematic view of a fluid supply conduit for use with the mattress of FIG. 5;

[0128] FIG. 10 shows a schematic plan illustration of a mattress having a head support according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0129] FIG. 11 shows a schematic side illustration of the mattress of FIG. 10;

[0130] FIG. 12 shows a schematic plan illustration of a mattress having a head support according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0131] FIG. 13 shows a schematic side illustration of the mattress of FIG. 12; and

[0132] FIG. 14 shows a schematic plan illustration of a headrest for a head support of the mattresses of FIG. 10 or FIG. 12.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0133] FIGS. 1-3 show schematic illustrations of a mattress 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] The mattress 1 comprises a support surface 2 for supporting a body of a patient. The mattress 1 further comprises a plurality of inflatable cells arranged below the support surface 2 and contained in a removable cover 3. The plurality of inflatable cells are arranged in layers comprising: a first layer 4 of inflatable cells arranged directly below the support surface 2; and a second layer 6 of inflatable cells arranged directly below the first layer 4. Each inflatable cell of the first layer 4 is arranged above at least one cell of the second layer 6.

[0135] The support surface 2 is generally rectangular and has a length and a width. The first layer 4 extends the entire length and width of the support surface 2, such that an upper surface of the first layer 4 substantially forms the support surface 2. The second layer 6 also extends the entire length and width of the support surface 2, such that each inflatable cell of the first layer 4 is supported over the entire length and width of the cell by at least one cell of the second layer 6.

[0136] The mattress is divided along its length into a plurality of zones. In this embodiment, the mattress is divided into five zones as follows: a head zone 8 at a head end of the mattress, a shoulder zone 10, an abdominal zone 12, a pelvic zone 14 and a leg zone 16, at a foot end of the mattress, opposite the head end. The head zone 8 is arranged to support the head of a patient supported on the mattress; the shoulder zone 10 is arranged to support the shoulders of a patient supported on the mattress; the abdominal zone 12 is arranged to support the abdomen of a patient supported on the mattress; the pelvic zone 14 is arranged to support the pelvis of a patient supported on the mattress; the leg zone 16 is arranged to support the legs and feet of a patient supported on the mattress.

[0137] The first layer 4 is formed by juxtaposing inflatable cells that are generally in the form of sausage-shaped tubes extending in the direction of the width of the mattress. The cells of the first layer 4 are generally disposed side-by-side in a row in the direction of the length of the mattress.

[0138] The inflatable cells of the first layer 4 are not all identical, and vary depending on the zone in which the inflatable cell is positioned. The inflatable cells 18 in the head zone 8, the shoulder zone 10 and the abdominal zone 12 of the first layer 4 are substantially identical, and have a circular cross-section with a diameter substantially equal to the depth of the first layer 4, when the cells are inflated. The inflatable cells 20 in the pelvic zone 14 of the first layer 4 have a rectangular cross-section with a depth substantially equal to the depth of the first layer 4 when the cells are inflated. The leg zone 16 of the first layer 4 comprises two different types of inflatable cell. The first inflatable cells 22 in the leg zone 16, positioned adjacent to the cells 20 of the pelvic zone, are the same as the inflatable cells 16 in the head zone 8, shoulder zone 10 and abdominal zone 12. The second inflatable cells 22 in the leg zone 16, positioned between the first inflatable cells 22 and the foot end of the mattress, have a circular cross-section with a diameter substantially equal to half the depth of the first layer 4. The second cells 22 in the leg zone 16 of the first layer 4 are arranged in two sub-layers, one sub-layer being positioned on top of the other.

[0139] The inflatable cells of the first layer 4 are formed in segments, each segment comprising a plurality of inflatable cells bonded to one another and formed by flat butt welding (e.g., heat-sealing) together two sheets of polyurethane, along weld lines that are mutually parallel. A first segment comprises the inflatable cells 18 of the head zone 8 of the first layer 4. A second segment comprises the inflatable cells 18 of the shoulder zone 10 and abdominal zone 12. A third segment comprises the inflatable cells 20 of the pelvic zone 14. A fourth segment comprises the first inflatable cells 22 of the leg zone 16. Fifth and sixth segments comprise each sub-layer of the second inflatable cells 24 of the leg zone 16.

[0140] Each of the segments of the first layer 4 is secured to the cover 3 by plastic press studs (not shown). Each of the second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth segments of inflatable cells of the first layer 4 are also secured to the adjacent segments of the first layer 4 by plastic press studs (not shown) placed in such a manner as to guarantee that the adjacent segments are held together mechanically, while also being releasable. The first segment is not secured to the adjacent second segment by plastic press studs. The plastic press studs make disassembly possible in the event that the first layer 4 is replaced in full or in part by replacing one or more of the segments.

[0141] The second layer 6 is also formed by juxtaposing inflatable cells that are generally in the form of sausage-shaped tubes extending in the direction of the width of the mattress. The cells of the second layer 6 are also generally disposed side-by-side in a row in the direction of the length of the mattress. The inflatable cells of the second layer 6 all have a substantially rectangular transverse cross-section with a depth substantially equal to the depth of the second layer 6, when the cell is inflated.

[0142] The second layer 6 comprises one inflatable cell in each zone of the mattress. Specifically, the second layer 6 comprises one inflatable cell 26 in the head zone 8, one inflatable cell 28 in the shoulder zone 10, one inflatable cell 30 in the abdominal zone 12, one inflatable cell 32 in the pelvic zone 14 and one inflatable cell 34 in the leg zone 34. Each of the inflatable cells of the second layer 6 substantially extends across the entire length and width of the zone in which the cell is located. As such, each inflatable cell of the first layer 4 is arranged above an inflatable cell of the second layer 6. Adjacent inflatable cells of the second layer 6 are not directly secured together, but each cell of the second layer 6 is secured to the cover 3 by plastic press studs (not shown).

[0143] In a known manner, each of the inflatable cells of the mattress 1 is provided with a connector for connecting the cell to a fluid supply device, in the form of a pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device (not shown). A suitable exemplary pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device is shown in FIG. 9 and described below in connection with the mattress embodiment of FIGS. 4 to 8. The fluid supply device may be received beneath the mattress 1 in a cavity of a frame of a patient support apparatus supporting the mattress, or separate from the mattress 1 and a patient support apparatus supporting the mattress.

[0144] The air pressures within the cells of the first layer 4 in various zones of the mattress 1 may be regulated by the fluid supply device in an alternating-pressure mode, in particular as a function of the information received from a morphology sensor. Although air pressures within any of the cells of the first layer 4 may be regulated in an alternating-pressure mode, typically the cells of the shoulder zone 10, abdominal zone 12 and pelvic zone 14 are regulated in an alternating-pressure mode.

[0145] The air pressures within the cells of the second layer 6 may be regulated by the fluid supply device in a substantially constant pressure mode.

[0146] In accordance with the present disclosure, the mattress 1 further comprises a valve system comprising a plurality of valves 36. In this embodiment, the valve system comprises five valves 36, each valve being fluidly connected to one of the inflatable cells of the second layer 6. In this embodiment, each valve 36 is a manually operated T-valve having an inlet configured to be fluidly connected to a fluid supply device, a first outlet configured to be connected to the connector of an inflatable cell of the mattress 1, and a second outlet configured as an exhaust. Each valve 36 also comprises an actuator that is manually controllable by a caregiver to selectively direct fluid from the inlet to either of the first outlet, for inflating the cell of the mattress, and the exhaust, for deflating the cell of the mattress.

[0147] It will be appreciated that the valves 36 of the valve system need not be manually operated valves, but may be controllable by a controller, such as a controller of a fluid supply device. In other embodiments, the valves 36 may be solenoid valves controllable by a controller.

[0148] Accordingly, in this embodiment the valve system of the mattress enables individual cells of the second layer 6 to be deflated by actuating the valve 36 of the cell to direct fluid from the inlet to the exhaust. Since each cell of the second layer 6 extends across a zone of the mattress 1, the valve system of the mattress provides a caregiver with straightforward control over the inflation and deflation of each one of the zones of the second layer 6 of the mattress 1.

[0149] A caregiver may wish to deflate a zone of the second layer 6 of the mattress 1 in order to reduce the interface pressure between a patient supported on the mattress and the mattress at a specific location. In particular, deflation of one or more zones of the second layer may be desirable when a patient is supported on the mattress in the prone position.

[0150] In the first layer 4 of the mattress 1, all adjacent inflatable cells are secured together in some manner, apart from the adjacent end cells of the head zone 8 and the shoulder zone 10. Accordingly, if the cell 30 of the second layer 6 in the abdominal zone 12 is deflated, the cells of the first layer 4 in the abdominal zone 12 are supported at both ends by the cells of the first layer 4 in the shoulder zone 10 and the cells of the first layer 4 in the pelvic zone 14. Similarly, if the cell 32 of the second layer 6 in the pelvic zone 14 is deflated, the cells of the first layer 4 in the pelvic zone 14 are supported at both ends by the cells of the first layer 4 in the abdominal zone 12 and the cells of the first layer 4 in the leg zone 16.

[0151] FIGS. 2 and 3 show the mattress 1 configured to support a patient in the prone position. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the cell 26 of the second layer 6 in the head zone 8 has been deflated by adjusting the valve 36 of the cell 26 to exhaust to atmosphere. The cells of the first layer 4 in the head zone 8 have also been deflated to create a large depression at the head zone 8 of the mattress 1, such that a head support element 38 may be positioned on the support surface 2 in the depression in the head zone 8 for appropriately supporting the head of the patient.

[0152] Also as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the cell 30 of the second layer 6 in the abdominal zone 12 has been deflated. The cells 18 of the first layer 4 in the abdominal zone 12 have not been deflated, and are supported at both ends by the cells 18 of the first layer 4 in the shoulder zone 10 and the cells 20 of the first layer 4 in the pelvic zone 14 in the manner of a hammock. The hammocked cells 18 of the first layer 4 in the abdominal zone 12 provide support to the abdomen of a patient on the mattress, but at a lower or reduced pressure than if the cell 30 of the second layer 6 in the abdominal zone 12 had been inflated. This reduced pressure in the abdominal zone 12 may lower the risk of the patient developing pressure injuries in the abdominal zone, without significantly increasing the pressure between the patient and the mattress at the shoulder zone 10 and the pelvic zone 14.

[0153] FIG. 4 shows a schematic illustration of a multiway valve 110 of a valve system of a mattress according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0154] The multiway valve 110 comprises an inlet (not shown) configured to be fluidly connected to a fluid supply device, a first outlet 112 (outlet A) configured to be connected to a connector of an inflatable cell of a mattress, a second outlet 114 (outlet B) configured to be connected to a connector of an inflatable cell of a mattress, a third outlet 116 (outlet C) configured as an exhaust, and a fourth outlet 118 (outlet D) configured to be connected to a connector of an inflatable cell of a mattress.

[0155] The multiway valve 110 further comprises an actuator that is manually controllable by a caregiver to selectively direct fluid from the inlet to one of the first outlet 112, the second outlet 114, the third outlet 116 and the fourth outlet 118.

[0156] It will be appreciated that the multiway valve 110 need not be a manually operated valve, but may be a valve that is controllable by a controller, such as a controller of a fluid supply device. In some embodiments, the multiway valve 110 may be solenoid valve that is controllable by a controller.

[0157] FIGS. 5-8 show schematic illustrations of a mattress 100 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0158] The mattress 100 comprises a support surface 101 for supporting a body of a patient. The mattress 100 further comprises a plurality of inflatable cells arranged below the support surface 101 and contained in a removable cover 102. The plurality of inflatable cells are arranged in layers comprising: a first layer 104 of inflatable cells 105 arranged directly below the support surface 101; a second layer 106 of inflatable cells 107 arranged directly below the first layer 104; and a third layer 108 comprising one inflatable cell 109. Each inflatable cell 105 of the first layer 4 is arranged above at least one inflatable cell 107 of the second layer 6, and each inflatable cell 107 of the second layer 106 is arranged above the inflatable cell 109 of the third layer.

[0159] The support surface 101 is generally rectangular and has a length and a width. The first layer 104 extends the entire length and width of the support surface 101, such that an upper surface of the first layer 104 substantially forms the support surface 101. The second layer 106 also extends the entire length and width of the support surface 101, such that each inflatable cell of the first layer 104 is supported over the entire length and width of the cell by at least one cell of the second layer 106. The third layer 108 also extends the entire length and width of the support surface 101, such that each inflatable cell of the second layer 106 is supported over the entire length and width of the cell by at least one cell of the third layer 108.

[0160] The mattress 100 is divided along its length into a plurality of zones. In this embodiment, the mattress is divided into three zones as follows: a first zone 120 for supporting the torso and the head of a patient supported on the mattress; a second zone 122 for supporting the legs and the feet of a patient supported on the mattress; and a third zone 124 interposed between the zones 120 and 122 and for supporting the pelvis of a patient supported on the mattress.

[0161] The first layer 104 is formed by juxtaposing inflatable cells 105 that are generally in the form of sausage-shaped tubes extending in the direction of the width of the mattress. The cells 105 of the first layer 104 are generally disposed side-by-side in a row in the direction of the length of the mattress. All of the cells 105 of the first layer 104 are substantially identical, each having a circular cross-section when the cell is inflated. In this embodiment, the inflatable cells 105 of the first layer 104 are formed by flat butt welding (e.g., heat-sealing) together two sheets of polyurethane, along weld lines that are mutually parallel.

[0162] The second layer 106 is substantially identical to the first layer 104. Accordingly, the second layer 106 is formed by juxtaposing inflatable cells 107 that are generally in the form of sausage-shaped tubes extending in the direction of the width of the mattress. The cells 107 of the second layer 106 are generally disposed side-by-side in a row in the direction of the length of the mattress. All of the cells 107 of the second layer 106 are substantially identical, each having a circular cross-section when the cell is inflated. In this embodiment, the inflatable cells 107 of the second layer 106 are formed by flat butt welding (e.g., heat-sealing) together two sheets of polyurethane, along weld lines that are mutually parallel.

[0163] The number of inflatable cells 105 of the first layer 104 is the same as the number of inflatable cells 107 of the second layer 106, and the first layer 104 is substantially aligned with the second layer 106 such that each inflatable cell 105 of the first layer 104 is arranged above a corresponding inflatable cell 107 of the second layer 106.

[0164] The third layer 108 comprises a single inflatable cell 109. The single inflatable cell 109 of the third layer 108 extends substantially the length and the width of the mattress, such that all of the inflatable cells 107 of the second layer 106 are arranged above the inflatable cell 109 of the third layer 108.

[0165] The first layer 104 and the third layer 108 are releasably secured to the cover 102 by plastic press studs (not shown). The second layer 106 is releasably secured to the underside of the first layer 104 by plastic press studs (not shown) and releasably secured to the top side of the third layer 108 by plastic press studs (not shown).

[0166] In accordance with the present disclosure, the mattress 100 further comprises a valve system comprising a plurality of multiway valves 110.

[0167] In this embodiment, the valve system comprises one multiway valve 110 for each of the inflatable cells 105 of the first layer 104. Outlet A of each multiway valve 110 is fluidly connected to one of the inflatable cells 105 of the first layer 104. Outlet B of each multiway valve 110, apart from the multiway valve 110 having outlet A fluidly connected to the end inflatable cell at the foot end of the mattress 100, is fluidly connected to a first inflatable cell 107 of the second layer 106. The first inflatable cell 107 of the second layer 106 is adjacent, in the direction of the foot end of the mattress 100, to the cell 107 of the second layer 106 that is directly below the inflatable cell 105 of the first layer 104 that is fluidly connected to outlet A of the multiway valve 110. Outlet C of each multiway valve is configured as an exhaust. Outlet D of each multiway valve 110, apart from the multiway valve 110 having outlet A fluidly connected to the end inflatable cell 105 of the first layer 104 at the head end of the mattress 100, is fluidly connected to a second inflatable cell 107 of the second layer 106. The second inflatable cell 107 of the second layer 106 is adjacent, in the direction of the head end of the mattress 100, to the cell 107 of the second layer 106 that is directly below the inflatable cell 105 of the first layer 104 that is fluidly connected outlet A of the multiway valve 110.

[0168] Put in another way, Outlets B and D of each multiway valve 110 are fluidly connected to the inflatable cells 107 of the second layer 106 at opposite sides of the inflatable cell 107 of the second layer 106 arranged directly below the inflatable cell 105 of the first layer 106 that is fluidly connected to outlet A of the multiway valve 110. This arrangement of the multiway valves 110, and the effects of the arrangement, are shown in FIGS. 6, 7 and 8.

[0169] In a known manner, each of the inflatable cells of the mattress 100 is provided with a connector for connecting the cell to a fluid supply device, in the form of a pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device (not shown). A suitable exemplary pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device is shown in FIG. 9. The fluid supply device may be received beneath the mattress 100 in a cavity of a frame of a patient support apparatus supporting the mattress, or separate from the mattress 100 and a patient support apparatus supporting the mattress.

[0170] In this embodiment, the multiway valves 110 are arranged between the connectors of the cells 105, 107 of the first and second layers 104, 106 and the fluid supply device. As such, the only supply of air provided to the inflatable cells 105, 107 of the first and second layers 104, 106 is provided through the inlets of the multiway valves 110.

[0171] The air pressures within the inflatable cells 105, 107 of the first and second layers 104, 106 may be regulated by the fluid supply device in an alternating-pressure mode, in particular as a function of the information received from a morphology sensor. The air pressure within the inflatable cell 109 of the third layer 108 may be regulated by the fluid supply device in a substantially constant pressure mode.

[0172] By default, all of the multiway valves 110 may be arranged to direct fluid from the inlet to outlet A. In this default position, air from a fluid supply device is directed into the inflatable cells 105 of the first layer 104, inflating the cells 105 of the first layer 104, and no air is directed into the inflatable cells 107 of the second layer 106, maintaining the cells 107 of the second layer 106 in a deflated state. This configuration is shown in FIG. 5. This default configuration may be appropriate to support a patient in a supine position.

[0173] An exemplary adjusted configuration of the multiway valves 110 is shown in FIG. 6.

[0174] A first inflatable cell 130 of the first layer 104, in the first zone 120, is fluidly connected to outlet A of a first multiway valve 131. The first inflatable cell 130 of the first layer 104 is arranged above a first inflatable cell 132 of the second layer 106.

[0175] A second inflatable cell 134 of the first layer 104, located in the second zone 124 away from the first inflatable cell 130, is fluidly connected to an outlet A of a second multiway valve 135. The second inflatable cell 134 of the first layer is arranged above a second inflatable cell 136 of the second layer 106.

[0176] A third inflatable cell 138 of the first layer 104 is fluidly connected to an outlet A of a third multiway valve 139. The third inflatable cell 138 of the first layer 104 is arranged above a third inflatable cell 140 of the second layer 106. The third inflatable cells 138, 140 of the first and second layers 104, 106 are adjacent to the second inflatable cells 134, 136 of the first and second layers 104, 106 in the direction of the foot end of the mattress.

[0177] A fourth inflatable cell 142 of the first layer 104 is fluidly connected to an outlet A of a fourth multiway valve 143. The fourth inflatable cell 142 of the first layer 104 is arranged above a fourth inflatable cell 144 of the second layer 106. The fourth inflatable cells 142, 144 of the first and second layers 104, 106 are adjacent to the third inflatable cells 138, 140 of the first and second layers 104, 106 in the direction of the foot end of the mattress.

[0178] A fifth inflatable cell 146 of the first layer 104 is fluidly connected to an outlet A of a fifth multiway valve 147. The fifth inflatable cell 146 of the first layer 104 is arranged above a fifth inflatable cell 148 of the second layer 106. The fifth inflatable cells 146, 148 of the first and second layers 104, 106 are adjacent to the fourth inflatable cells 142, 144 of the first and second layers 104, 106 in the direction of the foot end of the mattress.

[0179] Outlet B of the second multiway valve 135 is fluidly connected to the third inflatable cell 140 of the second layer 106.

[0180] Outlet B of the third multiway valve 139 is fluidly connected to the fourth inflatable cell 144 of the second layer 106 and outlet D of the third multiway valve is fluidly connected to the second inflatable cell 136 of the second layer 106.

[0181] Outlet B of the fourth multiway valve 143 is fluidly connected to the fifth inflatable cell 148 of the second layer 106 and outlet D of the fourth multiway valve is fluidly connected to the third inflatable cell 140 of the second layer 106.

[0182] Outlet D of the fifth multiway valve 147 is fluidly connected to the fourth inflatable cell 144 of the second layer 106.

[0183] As shown in FIG. 6, the first multiway valve 131 has been adjusted to direct fluid from the inlet to outlet C. Since outlet C is configured as an exhaust, air from the inlet is directed out of the exhaust to atmosphere. Since air from the inlet is not directed to the first inflatable cell 130 of the first layer 104, via outlet A, the first inflatable cell 130 is deflated. Accordingly, adjusting a multiway valve to direct fluid from the inlet to outlet C results in deflation of the inflatable cell of the first layer fluidly connected to outlet A. The first inflatable cell 132 of the second layer 106 has not been affected by adjustment of the first multiway valve 131, and remains deflated. This type of adjustment of a multiway valve may be used to provide clearance from the mattress for a portion of the patient at risk of developing a pressure ulcer. The depth of clearance provided by this adjustment is, at most, the depth of the inflated cells 105 of the first layer 104.

[0184] Also as shown in FIG. 6, the third multiway valve 139 has been adjusted to direct fluid from the inlet to outlet D, and the fourth multiway valve 143 has been adjusted to direct fluid from the inlet to outlet B.

[0185] In this position of the third multiway valve 139, fluid is directed by the third multiway valve 139 from the inlet to the second cell 136 of the second layer 106, rather than the third cell 138 of the first layer 104. Accordingly, the third cell 138 of the first layer 104 is deflated and the second cell 136 of the second layer 106 is inflated. The second cell 136 of the second layer 106 pushes up on the second cell 134 of the first layer 104 arranged above it. As such, the second cell 134 of the first layer 134 raises an area of the support surface 101, in a similar manner to arranging a separate support element on the support surface 101.

[0186] Similarly, in this position of the fourth multiway valve 143 fluid is directed by the fourth multiway valve 143 from the inlet to the fifth cell 148 of the second layer 106, rather than the fourth cell 142 of the first layer 104. Accordingly, the fourth cell 142 of the first layer 104 is deflated and the fifth cell 148 of the second layer 106 is inflated. The fifth cell 148 of the second layer 106 pushes up on the second cell 146 of the first layer 104 arranged above it to form a raised area of the support surface 101.

[0187] These types of adjustment of a multiway valve may be used to provide clearance from the mattress for a portion of the patient and to provide additional support to an adjacent area of the patient. The depth of clearance between the adjacent inflated and deflated pairs of cells provided by this type of adjustment is, at most, the depth of an inflated cell 105 of the first layer 104 and the depth of an inflated cell 107 of the second layer 106.

[0188] FIGS. 7 and 8 show the mattress 100 with the multiway valves 110 of the valve system adjusted to configure the inflatable cells of the mattress to appropriately support a patient in the prone position. A caregiver has selected the appropriate multiway valves to adjust in order to appropriately support the particular patient supported on the mattress 100.

[0189] In the first zone 120, three multiway valves 150 have been adjusted to deflate the three consecutive cells of the first layer 104 and to inflate the cells of the second layer 106 adjacent to the deflated cells at both ends. The valve 150 closest to the head end of the mattress has been adjusted to direct fluid from the inlet to outlet D, the middle one of the valves 150 has been adjusted to direct fluid from the inlet to outlet C, and the valve 150 closest to the foot end of the mattress has been adjusted to direct fluid from the inlet to outlet B. The three consecutive deflated cells of the first layer 104 form a depression in the mattress for receiving the face of the patient. The inflated cell of the second layer 106 adjacent to the depression, towards the head end of the mattress, pushes up on the cell of the first layer 104 above it to form a raised area of the mattress for supporting the top of the head of the patient. The inflated cell of the second layer 106 adjacent to the depression, towards the foot end of the mattress, pushes up on the cell of the first layer 104 above it to form a raised area of the mattress for supporting the shoulders and top of the chest of the patient.

[0190] In the central zone 124, two multiway valves 152 have been adjusted to deflate two consecutive cells of the first layer 104. Both valves 152 have been adjusted to direct fluid from the inlet to the outlet C. The two consecutive deflated cells of the first layer 104 form a depression in the mattress for receiving the pelvis of the patient. Raised areas either side of the depression are not required to provide additional support to the patient in this area, and so are not provided.

[0191] In the heel zone 122, one multiway valve 154 has been adjusted to deflate one cell of the first layer 104 and to inflate an adjacent cell of the second layer 106, towards the head end of the mattress. The multiway valve 154 has been adjusted to direct fluid from the inlet to the outlet D. The deflated cell of the first layer 104 forms a depression in the mattress for receiving the feet of the patient. The inflated cell of the second layer 104 adjacent to the depression in the direction of the head end of the mattress provides additional support to the ankles of the patient.

[0192] A manifold 200 and pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device 202 suitable for use with the mattress 100 are shown in FIG. 9. The manifold 200 and pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device 202 are based on FIG. 2 from European patent application publication number EP 3228294 A1. It will be appreciated that other fluid supply devices may also be suitable to be coupled to the mattress 100 to regulate inflation and deflation of the inflatable cells of the mattress.

[0193] As shown in FIG. 9, the mattress 100 is pneumatically coupled to a fluid supply device in the form of a manifold 200 and pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device 202.

[0194] The manifold 200 comprises a plurality of coupling ports 204A, 204B, 204C, 204D, 204E, 204F and 204G for pneumatically coupling each of the layers and zones of the mattress 100 to the manifold 200. The manifold 200 further comprises a plurality of coupling ports 206A, 206B, 206C, 206D and 206E for pneumatically coupling the manifold to the pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device 202, a pressure relief valve 208, equipment used by a technician during maintenance 210 and 212, and a pressure sensor 214 respectively. The manifold also comprises a plurality of solenoid valves 215, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228, and 230 for selectively isolating various components of the mattress 100 from each other and/or from the pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device 202. Each solenoid valve is configured to enable exhaust to atmosphere.

[0195] The solenoid valve 215 is configured to isolate the mattress 100 from the pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device, and to couple the pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device to a micro-climate management (MCM) cover 232, which is not shown in FIG. 9. The MCM cover 232 may be provided on top of the mattress 100 to regulate the temperature and moisture adjacent the person being supported by the mattress 100.

[0196] The solenoid valve 220 is configured to isolate the third layer 108. Solenoid valves 216 and 218 enable the third layer 108 to be exhausted to atmosphere. The third layer 108 may be exhausted to atmosphere because a leak has been detected in that layer.

[0197] The solenoid valves 222 and 224 are configured to isolate and/or exhaust to atmosphere the central zone 124 of the therapeutic first and second layers 104, 106. This enables the zone to be exhausted in the event of a leak.

[0198] The solenoid valve 226 enables the heel zone 122 of the therapeutic first and second layers 104, 106 to be exhausted to atmosphere in the event a leak is detected.

[0199] The solenoid valve 228 enables the heel zone 122 of the therapeutic first and second layers 104, 106 to be isolated from the pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device, and from other portions of the mattress 100.

[0200] The solenoid valve 230 enables some or all of the inflatable cells of the mattress 100 to be exhausted to atmosphere in dependence on the configuration of the other of the solenoid valves. This can enable the zones to be exhausted in the event of a leak or for generally exhausting the mattress.

[0201] As can also be seen from FIG. 9, the third layer 108 is provided with a pressure sensor 234 for determining the air pressure therein. A pressure relief valve 236 is pneumatically coupled to the head zone 20 of the therapeutic first and second layers 104, 106 to prevent the therapeutic first and second layers 104, 106 from being over-inflated, which may cause damage. The pressure relief valve 208 prevents the third layer 108 from being over-inflated, which also may cause damage.

[0202] In use, the manifold 200 and pneumatic inflation and pressure regulation device 202 are configured to pressurize the first, second and third layers 104, 106, 108 as desired, and as described above. In addition to the standard control method, the controller may also be configured to monitor whether the first, second and third layers 104, 106, 108 develop an air leak.

[0203] FIGS. 10 and 11 show schematic illustrations of a patient support apparatus 300 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0204] The patient support apparatus comprises a mattress 302 supported on a patient support apparatus frame 304 and also comprises a head support 306 supported on the patient support apparatus frame 304 at a head end of the patient support apparatus 300. The head support 306 is configured to provide support for the head of a patient when the body of the patient is supported on the mattress 302 and the head of the patient is positioned off the mattress 302, beyond the head end of the mattress 302.

[0205] The head support 306 comprises a head support frame 308, a headrest 310 and a pair of shoulder rests 312. The head support frame 308 extends from the head end of the patient support apparatus frame 304, beyond the head end of the mattress 302. A proximal end of the head support frame 308 is removably secured to the patient support apparatus frame 304, such that the head support 306 may be removed from the patient support apparatus frame 304 when it is not required.

[0206] In this embodiment, the head support frame 308 comprises a pair of arms 314 extending from the head end of the patient support apparatus frame 304, spaced apart by a distance slightly less than the width of the mattress. In this embodiment, the patient support apparatus frame 304 is provided with clamps (not shown) for removably securing a proximal end of the arms 314 to the patient support apparatus frame 304.

[0207] The head support frame 308 further comprises a crossbar 316 extending between the pair of arms 314 at a distal end, opposite the proximal end of the arms. The crossbar 316 is slidably mounted to the arms 314 on lockable clamps (not shown), such that the crossbar 316 is slidable along the arms 314 in the direction of the length of the patient support apparatus 300. A pillar 318 is slidably mounted to the crossbar 316 on a lockable clamp (not shown), such that the pillar 318 may be moved along the crossbar 316 in the direction of the width of the patient support apparatus 300, and locked in position at a desired location. A lockable ball-joint 320 is slidably mounted on the pillar 318 and movably supports a headrest support 322. The lockable ball-joint 320 is slidable along the pillar 318 in the direction of the height of the patient support apparatus 300 and the headrest support 322 is rotatable in two planes about the ball-joint 320 to vary the orientation of the headrest support 322. The lockable ball-joint 320 comprises handles 324 for locking and unlocking the position of the joint 320 on the pillar 318 and for locking and unlocking the orientation of the headrest support 322 relative to the ball-joint 320.

[0208] The headrest 310 generally comprises a pillow of viscoelastic foam for comfortably supporting the head of a patient. In this embodiment, the headrest 310 has a general cylindrical shape, with a cylindrical central passage 326, open at both ends, through which ventilation tubes may be passed to the mouth and nose of a patient supported on the patient support apparatus 300 in the prone position. Accordingly, the headrest 310 has a substantially annular shape.

[0209] The headrest support 322 generally comprises a platform or tray for supporting the headrest 310, and in this embodiment comprises a cavity configured to receive the headrest 310. The headrest support 322 also comprises a central passage (not shown), open at both ends, in the cavity that is alignable with the central passage of the headrest 310 to enable ventilation tubes to pass through the headrest support 322 to a patient.

[0210] In this embodiment, the head support frame 308 movably supports the headrest 310 such that the position and orientation of the headrest 310 is fully adjustable relative to the mattress 302. This may enable the head support 306 to be adjusted to appropriately support the heads of patients of different sizes.

[0211] The head support frame 308 further comprises a pair of pillars 328, each pillar 328 being slidably mounted on an arm 314 of the frame 308, between the crossbar 316 and the proximal end of the arm 314, on a lockable clamp (not shown). Accordingly, the pillars 328 are slidable along the arms 314 in the direction of the length of the patient support apparatus 300 and are lockable in the position. Each pillar 328 supports one of the pair of shoulder rests 312 at a distal end of the pillar, opposite the lockable clamp. In this embodiment, the pillars 328 are telescopic, which further enables the height of the shoulder rests 312 to be adjusted. Accordingly, the position of the shoulder rests 312 is adjustable to appropriately support the shoulders of patients of different sizes.

[0212] Each shoulder rest 312 generally comprises a pillow of the same viscoelastic foam as headrest 310, and is substantially stadium shaped for supporting a shoulder of a patient.

[0213] FIGS. 12 and 13 show schematic illustrations of a patient support apparatus 400 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0214] The patient support apparatus 400 is substantially similar to the patient support apparatus 300 described above with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. The patient support apparatus 400 comprises a mattress 402 supported on a patient support apparatus frame 404 and also comprises a head support 406 supported on the patient support apparatus frame 404 at a head end of the patient support apparatus 400.

[0215] In this embodiments, the head support 406 comprises a head support frame 408, a headrest 310 and shoulder rests 412. The head support frame 408 extends from the head end of the patient support apparatus frame 404, beyond the head end of the mattress 402. A proximal end of the head support frame 408 is slidably secured to the patient support apparatus frame 304, such that the head support frame 408 may be moved between an extended position, when the head support 406 is required, and a retracted position, when the head support 406 is not required.

[0216] In this embodiment, the head support frame 408 comprises a platform for supporting the headrest 410 and shoulder rests 412. The platform 408 is generally planar and is slidably supported by the patient support apparatus frame 404 on rails (not shown). The platform 408 is slidable relative to the patient support apparatus frame 404 between the extended position, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, and the retracted position, in which the platform 408 is stowed in a space in the patient support apparatus frame 404 beneath the mattress 402. The platform 408 may be lockable in both the extended position and the retracted position, if desired.

[0217] The headrest 410 generally comprises a polymer gel block for comfortably supporting the head of a patient. In this embodiment, the headrest 410 generally has a cubic shape with a t-shaped passage 414, open at both ends, through which ventilation tubes may be passed to the mouth and nose of a patient supported on the patient support apparatus 400 in the prone position. The T-shaped passage 414 may enable the eyes, nose and mouth of a patient supported on the patient support apparatus 400 in the prone position to be remain clear of the headrest 410, while also providing support most other areas of the face of the patient.

[0218] The pair of shoulder rests 412 generally comprise stadium shaped polymer gel blocks for comfortably supporting the shoulders of a patient.

[0219] The headrest 410 and pair of shoulder rests 412 may be removably positioned on the platform 408 in any desired position for appropriately supporting the head and shoulders of a patient respectively. The weight of the rests 410, 412 and the weight of a patient supported on the rests is sufficient to maintain the rests 410, 412 in the desired position on the platform 408.

[0220] In this embodiment, the position of the rests 410, 412 on the platform 408 and the size of the rests 410, 412 may be selected by a caregiver to appropriately support the heads and shoulders of patients of different sizes.

[0221] FIG. 14 shows a schematic illustration of a pneumatic headrest 500 suitable for use with the head supports of the patient support apparatus 300, 400 of the third and fourth embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0222] The headrest 500 comprises a generally rectangular platform 502 having a T-shaped passage 504, open at both ends, extending through the center of the platform. A plurality of inflatable cells are arranged on one side of the platform, around the T-shaped passage 504. Each one of the plurality of inflatable cells comprises a connector for connecting to a fluid supply device for inflating the cell. The fluid supply device may be same fluid supply device provided for supplying fluid to the mattress of the patient support apparatus.

[0223] When the inflatable cells of the headrest 500 are inflated, the headrest 500 forms a cushion substantially similar to the headrest 410 described above in relation to FIGS. 12 and 13. Accordingly, the inflatable cells of the headrest 500 are shaped and arranged in a manner to appropriately support the head of a patient in the prone position, with the T-shaped passage remaining clear to provide clearance from the eyes, nose and mouth of the patient. An exemplary arrangement of inflatable cells is shown in FIG. 15, with substantially rectangular shaped cells 506 being provided along the sides of the platform 502 and passage 504, and substantially oval shaped cells 508 being provided at corners.

[0224] Inflation and deflation of the inflatable cells of the headrest 500 may be regulated in any suitable manner. In some contemplated embodiments, the inflatable cells of the headrest 500 may be inflated and deflated in accordance with an alternating-pressure mode, as described above in relation to the first and second layers of a mattress.

[0225] It will be appreciated that other shapes of headrest and arrangements of inflatable cells may be provided. It will also be provided that adjacent inflatable cells of the headrest may be secured together. Where adjacent inflatable cells of the headrest are secured together, it may not be necessary to provide the inflatable cells on a platform, provided that the inflatable cells are secured together in such a way as to maintain a desired geometric shape.

[0226] It will be appreciated that the above described embodiments are only exemplary embodiments according to the present disclosure. It will also be appreciated that features described above in relation to one embodiment of the disclosure may also be applied to other embodiments of the disclosure.