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EP0817585B1 - Sitzkissen - Google Patents

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Publication number
EP0817585B1
EP0817585B1 EP96904874A EP96904874A EP0817585B1 EP 0817585 B1 EP0817585 B1 EP 0817585B1 EP 96904874 A EP96904874 A EP 96904874A EP 96904874 A EP96904874 A EP 96904874A EP 0817585 B1 EP0817585 B1 EP 0817585B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
elements
seat cushion
element group
gas
pressure
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP96904874A
Other languages
English (en)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0817585A1 (de
Inventor
Kari Olkkonen
Hannu Saarinen
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Carital Oy
Original Assignee
Carital Oy
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Carital Oy filed Critical Carital Oy
Publication of EP0817585A1 publication Critical patent/EP0817585A1/de
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0817585B1 publication Critical patent/EP0817585B1/de
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
    • A61G5/00—Chairs or personal conveyances specially adapted for patients or disabled persons, e.g. wheelchairs
    • A61G5/10—Parts, details or accessories
    • A61G5/1043—Cushions specially adapted for wheelchairs
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
    • A61G5/00—Chairs or personal conveyances specially adapted for patients or disabled persons, e.g. wheelchairs
    • A61G5/10—Parts, details or accessories
    • A61G5/1043—Cushions specially adapted for wheelchairs
    • A61G5/1045—Cushions specially adapted for wheelchairs for the seat portion
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
    • A61G7/00—Beds specially adapted for nursing; Devices for lifting patients or disabled persons
    • A61G7/05—Parts, details or accessories of beds
    • A61G7/057—Arrangements for preventing bed-sores or for supporting patients with burns, e.g. mattresses specially adapted therefor
    • A61G7/05769—Arrangements for preventing bed-sores or for supporting patients with burns, e.g. mattresses specially adapted therefor with inflatable chambers
    • A61G7/05776—Arrangements for preventing bed-sores or for supporting patients with burns, e.g. mattresses specially adapted therefor with inflatable chambers with at least two groups of alternately inflated chambers

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a seat cushion according to the introductory part of patent claim 1.
  • a cushion is known from FR-A-1 291 237.
  • the seat cushion is particularly designed as a wheelchair cushion for persons who are unable to walk.
  • the seat cushion prevents the creation of pressure sores in the buttock area, helps the person sit in a straight posture in the wheelchair and prevents him from being inclined either sideways or forward.
  • a seat cushion comprising a number of bag-like elements filled with gas. These elements are essentially quadratic in cross-section, and their height is larger than their width. Consequently they are upwardly oriented stud-like bags arranged on the seat area, for instance 8 x 8 numbers in all.
  • a drawback with the described known seat cushion is that all elements are interconnected. The same air pressure prevails in all elements irrespective of the spot where the patient sits on the seat cushion. Air tends to flow from the bag-like elements from underneath the patient towards the elements located at the sides, where the weight pressure is weaker. Thus it is difficult for the patient to achieve a good balance on this type of seat cushion.
  • Another drawback with said seat cushion is that if one of the bag-like elements is broken, the whole seat cushion immediately becomes unfit for use.
  • a seat cushion including both bag-like elements filled with liquid or gel, and shaped and padded support elements.
  • a drawback with said known seat cushions is that they must generally be custom-shaped according to the measures of the patient, wherefore they are expensive.
  • Another drawback is that the shaped and padded parts still can direct a high surface pressure towards certain body parts which rest against them, so that the conditions for developing pressure sores exist.
  • the liquid element cannot smooth out the pressure directed to the critical tissue spots in order to prevent the development of pressure sores.
  • the object of the present invention is to achieve a new seat cushion whereby the described drawbacks can for essential parts be eliminated.
  • the object also includes the provision of a more comfortable seat cushion than the one known from FR-A-1 291 237.
  • the invention is characterized by the features enlisted in the characterizing part of the patent claim 1.
  • the seat cushion according to the invention comprises a number of elongate, bag-like elements which can be filled with gas.
  • the bag-like elements are arranged into element groups, so that
  • An advantage of the seat cushion of the invention is that by using it, the buttocks and thighs of the patient can be shaped and supported, so that the patient sits straight and in a good position on the seat cushion, particularly in a wheelchair.
  • Another advantage is that the gas pressure in the bag-like elements of the seat cushion is always adjustable to be individually suitable, in which case the pressure directed to the skin can be minimized in the whole seat region.
  • the location of the bony prominences of the patient i.e. the tailbone and the ischial bones
  • the reason for this is that the spots of the bony prominences constitute a critical area as for pressure sores.
  • particularly the tailbone and the ischial bones are located on the area in between the elements, and further, by adjusting the pressure in the first and second element groups, i.e. by adjusting the gas filling volumes, the seating comfort can be individually adjusted.
  • Yet another advantage of the invention is that by means of the third element group provided at the front part of the seat cushion, the patient can be supported at his thighs, particularly at the front part thereof, and the patient's seating angle can be adjusted to be suitable.
  • An advantage of the invention is the structure of its elements.
  • the elements which are realized as having the shape of an upturned letter U in cross-section, conform to the sideways movements of the sitting patient's body. This minimizes the shearing forces (tissue-stretching forces) directed to the skin, which affect the creation of bedsores.
  • Yet another advantage of the invention is its dual element structure.
  • the upper elements In cross-section, the upper elements have the shape of an upturned letter U, so that inside them, there is created a lengthwise tunnel where the lower elements are fitted in.
  • the gas filling volume of the lower element is optimized according to the use.
  • the upper elements conform completely to the buttocks and thighs of the patient. This maximizes the contact surface between the seat and the patient.
  • the lower elements there is realized a fine adjustment of the interphase pressure (pressure between the seat and the patient) and ensured that the interphase pressure is evenly distributed throughout the whole contact surface.
  • Yet another advantage of the invention is that the elements of the seat cushion are most advantageously removable and replaceable elements. Thus the maintenance and care of the seat cushion takes place simply and quickly by replacing damaged elements.
  • the elements of the seat cushion are most advantageously prefilled in the factory, whereafter the patient can, when putting the seat cushion to use, by means of a hand pump and a pressure meter adjust the relative pressures of each element or element group to be individually suitable, as well as observe and readjust the gas filling volumes whenever necessary.
  • the seat cushion of figure 1 includes a number of elongate bag-like elements which are made of a flexible material and can be filled with gas.
  • the bag-like elements are arranged in element groups 1, 2, 3, so that the first element group 1 comprises the interconnected elements 1a, 1b and 1c, which are located lengthwise at the sides S of the seat cushion and transversally in a U-shape in the rear part T of the seat cushion; the second element group 2 comprises two likewise interconnected elements 2a, 2b arranged in the middle area of the seat cushion; and the third element group 3 comprises one element 3a, which is arranged transversally in the front part E of the seat cushion.
  • the element groups and their elements are arranged symmetrically with respect to an illusory vertical central plane of the seat cushion, said central plane passing from the center of the seat cushion to the rear along the line C-C illustrated in figure 1.
  • the elements 1a, 1b, 1c; 2a, 2b; 3a of the element groups are advantageously interconnected by means of joining seams 10, so that they together form a uniform padding of the size of a seating surface, for instance for a wheelchair, i.e. a seat cushion.
  • Each element group 1, 2, 3 is connected, by means of an individual gas conduit 4, 5, 6, such as a thin hose, to outside the seat cushion.
  • the gas conduits 4, 5, 6 are provided with valves 7, 8, 9, and further advantageously with coupling means at the free ends of the conduits for connecting the conduits to an air pump or a similar air or gas source (not illustrated in the drawings).
  • the elements 1a, 1b, 1c of the first element group 1 form a uniform element group arranged in a U-shape when seen from the top. Said elements are directly connected to each other and in fact constitute one uniform element.
  • the gas pressure in said element group 1 can be adjusted to be suitable by means of air or gas to be fed in via the gas conduit 4. When the desired gas filling volume and pressure is achieved, the valve 7 is closed.
  • the elements of the second element group include two parallel elements 2a, 2b. Said elements are arranged in between the elements 1b, 1c of the first element group 1 arranged lengthwise along the sides S of the seat cushion and parallel to said elements 1b, 1c. These elements 2a, 2b are interconnected by means of a connecting conduit 11, so that the elements form a uniform gas-filled element group.
  • the elements 2a, 2b of this element group 2 are connected, by means of a gas conduit 5, to a suitable gas source such as an air pump. From the gas source, the elements are filled to a suitable gas pressure, whereafter the valve 8 provided in the conduit 5 can be closed.
  • the elements 1a, 1b of the first element group are relatively wide and spacious elements, and particularly the width l of the element 1a arranged transversally in the rear of the seat cushion is advantageously of the order 10-15 cm. All elements 1a, 1b, 1c of the first element group 1 may have the same width, but the width may also differ to some extent. Further, the elements 1a, 1b, 1c of the first element group 1 are designed so that their pressurized height h 1 is such that they rise higher than the height h 2 of the elements 2a, 2b of the second element group 2 in pressurized state (cf. figure 2).
  • pressurizing means a slight excess pressure of the filling gas (in relation to air pressure) or most advantageously a pressure corresponding to the surroundings, so that the gas spaces of the elements are partially filled with gas, but they are not inflated to their maximum dimensions and/or that the element shells are not remarkably stretched.
  • the elements 1a, 1b, 1c of the first element group 1 form around the buttocks and the thighs an essentially U-shaped circular support open on one side, as is illustrated in figure 3.
  • the top surface of the elements 2a, 2b of the second element group 2 remains on a lower level than the top surface of the elements 1a, 1b, 1c of the first element group 1, but they still support the tailbone region and the inner surface of the thighs, so that the buttock region of person H does not get a bottom contact with the top surface of the seat P proper.
  • the patient is supported in straight posture in his position on the seat, particularly in a wheelchair or the like, where specially the side supports and arm rests provided at the sides of the chair support the patient and the seat cushion and help maintain a good position and posture.
  • the element 3a of the third element group 3 is designed so that the height h 3 of said element in pressurized state is such that its height, depending on the pressure, can most advantageously be fitted in between the heights h 1 , h 2 of the second element group 2 particularly when using the seat.
  • the pressurized element 3a means an element where the pressure of the filling gas is of the order of the pressure of the surroundings, so that the gas space is not inflated to maximum and its shell is not tightly stretched. Consequently, by means of the element 3a of the third element group 3, the height h 3 (arrow D) of the front edge of the seat cushion can be adjusted, and thereby the seating angle (arrow E) of person H sitting on the seat P, as is illustrated in figure 5.
  • first and second element groups 1, 2 are matched so that the first element group 1 supports, on an area as large as possible, the buttocks region and the region below the lumbar spine at the side and at the back, and the second element group 2 supports the tailbone region and essentially the inner and rear part of the thighs.
  • the first and second element groups 1, 2 are fitted most advantageously so that the tailbone region of the patient essentially falls on the area of the seam joints 10a of the element groups (for example figure 1).
  • the transversal element 1a of the rear part in element group 1 prevents the patient, among other things, from sliding backwardly in the wheelchair and from pushing out of the aperture in between the back rest and the seat.
  • the seat cushion comprises elongate bag-like elements which are arranged into a first 12, second 13 and third element group 14.
  • the first element group 12 includes three separate elements 12a, 12b, 12c interconnected by conduits 15; 15a, 15b.
  • the first element 12a is arranged transversally in the rear part T of the seat cushion, and the second and third element 12b, 12c are arranged lengthwise at the sides S of the seat cushion.
  • the second element group 13 comprises two elements 13a, 13b, which are fitted, parallel to the elements 12a, 12b of the first element group 12 arranged at the sides S of the seat cushion, in the middle area of the seat cushion.
  • the third element group 14 comprises only one element 14a, and it is arranged transversally in the front part E of the seat cushion.
  • the elements 12a, 12b, 12c; 13a, 13b; 14a are formed as arched structures directed upwardly from an underlay 16 and have the shape of an upturned letter U, as is seen in the cross-sections F-F, G-G of figures 7 and 8.
  • the seat cushion is provided with a plate-like flexible underlay 16, whereto the elements of the element groups 12, 13 and 14 are attached either permanently or suitably removably, in which case the elements of the element groups 12, 13 and 14 are replaceable.
  • the first element group 12 and respectively the second and third element group 13, 14 are connectable, via conduits 17, 18, 19, such as thin hoses, and valves 20, 21, 22 to a suitable gas source, such as an air pump or a gas tank in order to adjust the gas filling volume and gas pressure of the element groups in similar fashion as was explained in the description of the embodiment of figure 1.
  • a suitable gas source such as an air pump or a gas tank
  • An advantage of the arched U-shaped structure of the elements 12a, 12b, 12c; 13a, 13b; 14a of the element groups 12, 13, 14 is that their flexibility is easily adjustable by means of the gas filling volume and hence the gas pressure, and that they are easily attached to the underlay 16 either permanently or replaceably.
  • Another advantage of the elements 12a, 12b, 12c; 13a, 13b; 14a is their flexibility and movability in the transversal sideways direction. They thus prevent the creation of shearing forces towards the skin surface and the development of bed sores.
  • the elements 12a, 12b, 12c; 13a, 13b; 14a of the element groups 12, 13, 14 are advantageously removably attached by suitable fastening means to the underlay 16, in which case a damaged single element/element group can be easily replaced.
  • the elements 12a, 12b, 12c; 13a, 13b; 14a of the element groups 12, 13, 14 can be partly or completely replaced by dual elements.
  • an additional element 12d, 12e, 12f; 13c, 13d; 14b which can be filled with for instance gas, in similar fashion as the element proper.
  • the additional element 12d, 12e, 12f; 13c, 13d; 14b is made of some flexible material, such as suitable foam plastic or foam rubber.
  • the proper element 12a, 12b, 12c; 13a, 13b; 14a, having the shape of an upturned letter U in cross-section, is henceforth called the top element, and the additional element 12d, 12e, 12f; 13c, 13d; 14b is called the bottom element.
  • the gas filling to suitable pressure of the top elements 12a, 12b, 12c; 13a, 13b; 14a, in connection whereof the bottom elements 12d, 12e, 12f; 13c, 13d; 14b are fitted takes place more rapidly than without the bottom elements.
  • either of the elements of the dual structure, either the top or bottom element can be a closed element with a standard pressure, so that only the other is adjustable as for gas filling volume and pressure.
  • the bottom elements also serve as effective preventives of bottom contact, for instance when crossing over thresholds and other bumpy areas in a wheelchair.
  • a third seat cushion according to the invention is illustrated in figures 9, 10 and 11. Also here the seat cushion comprises elongate bag-like elements arranged in a first 23, second 24 and third 25 element group.
  • the first element group 23 includes three separate elements 23a, 23b and 23c.
  • the first element 23a is arranged transversally in the rear part T of the seat cushion, and the second and third element 23b, 23c are arranged lengthwise at the sides S of the seat cushion.
  • the second element group 24 includes two elements 24a, 24b, which are located in the middle area of the seat cushion, in parallel to the elements 23a, 23b of the first element group 23 arranged at the sides S of the seat cushion.
  • the third element group 25 includes only one element 25a, and it is arranged transversally in the front part E of the seat cushion.
  • the elements 23a, 23b, 23c; 24a, 24b; 25a of the element groups 23, 24, 25 are formed as arched structures directed upwardly from bottom to top and have the shape of an upturned letter U in cross-section, as is seen in the cross-sections H-H, I-I of figures 10 and 11.
  • the seat cushion is provided with a plate-like flexible underlay 26, whereto the elements of the element groups 23, 24, 25 are attached, either permanently or most advantageously removably, in which case the elements of the element groups are replaceable.
  • the elements 23a, 23b, 23c of the first element group 23 are all independent, separate elements, each comprising a conduit 27a, 27b, 27c, such as a thin hose, to outside the seat cushion.
  • the elements 24a, 24b of the second element group 24 are separate elements, but they are interconnected by means of a conduit 28.
  • the element 24b (or alternatively element 24a) of the second element group is provided with a conduit 27d, such as a thin hose, leading to outside the seat cushion.
  • the element 25a of the third element group 25 includes a conduit 27e, also leading to outside the seat cushion.
  • Each conduit 27a, 27b, 27c, 27d, 27e leading out of the seat cushion is provided with a valve 29a, 29b, 29c, 29d, 29e, through which the elements are connected to a suitable gas source, such as an air pump or a gas tank, in order to adjust the gas filling volumes and hence gas pressure of the elements/element groups, in similar fashion as was explained above, in the description of the embodiments of figures 1 and 6, for example.
  • a suitable gas source such as an air pump or a gas tank
  • the elements 23a, 23b, 23c; 24a, 24b; 25a are advantageously attached removably with suitable fastening means to the underlay 26, in which case a damaged single element or element group is easily replaced.
  • the elements 23a, 23b, 23c; 24a, 24b; 25a of the element groups 23, 24, 25 can be partly or completely replaced by dual elements.
  • only the elements of the second element group 24 are provided with a dual element structure.
  • an additional element i.e. a bottom element 24c, 24d that can be filled with gas like the top element.
  • one of the elements of the dual structure can be a closed element with standard pressure, so that only one of the two elements is adjustable in gas filling volume and pressure.
  • the bottom element 24c, 24d is made of some flexible material, such as suitable foam plastic or rubber.
  • An advantage of the third embodiment of the seat cushion according to the invention is that it includes five separately and flexibly adjustable seat cushion sections; thus the seat cushion can be effectively shaped by the user according to his personal needs.
  • the sitting position can be well adjusted.
  • the adjusting takes place in similar fashion as was explained above, in connection with figures 1-5, but this embodiment has a wider range of adjusting possibilities, because the elements 23a, 23b, 23c of the first element group 23 can be adjusted separately.
  • the elements 24a, 24b of the second element group 24 are realized as dual structures, and consequently bottom contact is prevented even in a case where the other part of the element, either the top or bottom element, is damaged.
  • the elements are advantageously removable, so that the seat cushion is easily maintained when one of the elements starts to leak.
  • a fourth seat cushion according to the invention is illustrated in figure 12 as seen from the top.
  • the seat cushion comprises three element groups 30, 31, 32.
  • the first element group 30 includes elements 30a, 30b, 30c arranged lengthwise at the sides S of the seat cushion and transversally in the rear part T in U-shape, said elements being most advantageously independent, separate elements, as in the embodiment of figures 9-11.
  • the second element group 31 includes three elements 31a, 31b, 31c, which are arranged in the middle area of the seat cushion, in parallel to the sides S thereof.
  • the gas spaces of the elements 31a, 31b, 31c are interconnected by conduits 33a, 33b.
  • the third element group 32 includes two elements 32a, 32b, the gas spaces being interconnected by a conduit 34.
  • the elements 32a, 32b of the third element group are arranged transversally in the front part E of the seat cushion.
  • Each separate element 30a, 30b, 30c and each element group 31, 32 interconnected by conduits is provided with a respective conduit 35a, 35b, 35c; 35d, 35e, such as a thin hose, to outside the seat cushion.
  • Each conduit 35a, 35b, 35c, 35d, 35e leading out of the seat cushion is provided with a valve 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d, 36e, through which the elements/element groups are connected to a suitable gas source, such as an air pump or a gas tank, in order to adjust the gas filling volumes and hence gas pressures of the elements/element groups, in principle in the same fashion as was already explained in the description of the embodiments of figures 1, 6 and 9, among others.
  • a suitable gas source such as an air pump or a gas tank
  • the elements 30a, 30b, 30c; 31a, 31b; 32a of the element groups 30, 31, 32 are advantageously removably attached by suitable fastening means to an underlay 37, in which case a damaged single element or element group is easily replaced.
  • the heights h 1 , h 2 , h 3 (h 3 ') of the elements 30a, 30b, 30c; 31a, 31b; 32a of the element groups 30, 31, 32 are advantageously arranged in similar fashion as above, in the embodiments of figures 1-11.
  • the elements 30a, 30b, 30c; 31a, 31b; 32a of the element groups 30, 31, 32 can be partly or completely replaced by dual elements. Most advantageously only the elements 31a, 31b, 31c of the second element group 31 are provided with dual element structure, in similar fashion as in the embodiments of figures 9-11.
  • conduits 4, 5, 6; 27a, 27b, 27c, 27d, 27e; 35a, 35b, 35c, 35d, 35e (figures 1-5, 9-11 and 12) of the elements or element groups of the seat cushion are most advantageously arranged to lead out of the seat cushion through its side S.
  • the conduits 17, 18, 19 can be arranged to lead out of the seat cushion at its front E, particularly at the right edge of the front, as is illustrated in the embodiments of figures 6-8.
  • the free ends of the conduits can easily be brought out when it is necessary to adjust the gas filling volume and pressure of the elements (or element groups).
  • Figures 13 and 14 illustrate an arrangement for fastening the elements 38 (12a, 12b, 12c, 13a, 13b, 14a; 23a, 23b, 23c, 24a, 24b, 25a; 30a, 30b, 30c, 31a, 31b, 31c, 32a, 32b) of the second, third and fourth embodiment removably to the underlay 39 (16; 26; 37).
  • fastening straps 40; 40a, 40b extending in this embodiment along the whole length of the element 38, but they can also be short fastening lugs or the like, spaced apart at short intervals at the sides of the element.
  • grooves 41, 41, 41 wherein the fastening straps 40, 40a, 40b of the elements are fitted.
  • Each element 38 is attached, by the fastening straps 40, to the grooves 41 of the underlay 39.
  • the grooves 41; 41a, 41b are arranged in the underlay 39 at such distances that the element forms a tunnel-like structure having the shape of an upturned letter U in cross-section, said structure being directed upwardly from the underlay 39, when it is inflated to suitable pressure with gas.
  • the fastening means 42 include fastening bits 43 and fastening members 44.
  • the element 38 is attached at the fastening straps 40 to the underlay 39, particularly to its grooves 41, so that in the grooves 41 and the fastening straps 40, and respectively in the fastening bits, there are arranged perforations 45 spaced apart, most advantageously at regular distances, said distances being most advantageously regular, and the fastening means 44 are fitted in the perforations in order to bind the different parts together.
  • the fastening bits 43 are narrow, advantageously rectangular plates always provided with two holes 45 located at the same distance from each other as in the underlay 39 and in the fastening straps 40 of the elements 38.
  • the fastening means 44 are pins, tapes or the like to be inserted in the perforations 45, and in the fastening process, they are arranged to proceed through the perforations 45 of the underlay 39, through the fastening straps 40 and the fastening bits 43 and to bind these together.
  • the seat cushion comprises a plate-like flexible underlay 16; 26; 37; 39, including at least two overlapping and at least partly detachable underlay parts 26a, 26b; 39a, 39b, as is illustrated in figures 10 and 13.
  • the underlay parts 26a, 26b; 39a, 39b are most advantageously connected in a hinge-like fashion at the side of the seat cushion, so that they can be turned apart along the side, as is illustrated by the dotted lines in figure 10.
  • the conduits 47 such as hoses, of the elements or element groups, as is seen for instance in the cross-sectional illustration of figure 15.
  • a perforation 48 in the first underlay part 39a, there is provided a perforation 48, and in the second part 39b a groove 46, which extends to the sides of the underlay 39 of the seat cushion.
  • the conduit 47 passes at the junction 49 of the element 38 through the perforation 48 to the groove 46 and further to the side of the seat cushion.
  • At least part of the elements 12a, 12b, 12c, 13a, 13b, 14a; 23a, 23b, 23c, 24a, 24b, 25a; 30a, 30b, 30c, 31a, 31b, 31c, 32a, 32b of the element groups 12, 13, 14; 23, 24, 25; 30, 31, 32 are formed as upwardly directed arch-like structures having the shape of an upturned letter U in cross-section.
  • the elements 12a, 12b, 12c; 23a, 23b, 23c; 30a, 30b, 30c of the first element group have this kind of structure.
  • the advantage is that the elements are effectively flexible both in the vertical and sideways direction, and thus reduce the shearing forces directed to the skin surface of the seated person.
  • At least part of the elements 12a, 12b, 12c, 13a, 13b, 14a; 23a, 23b, 23c, 24a, 24b, 25a; 30a, 30b, 30c, 31a, 31b, 31c, 32a, 32b of the element groups 12, 13, 14; 23, 24, 25; 30, 31, 32 are provided with additional elements and thus formed to be dual elements.
  • the elements 13a, 13b; 24a, 24b; 31a, 31b, 31c of the second element group 13; 24; 31 are such dual elements. This ensures the supportive capacity of the seat cushion's middle area, where the main part of the weight of the seated person rests.
  • the breaking of one element of a dual element structure does not yet lead to a catastrophe, because the other element still supports the patient.
  • the top elements proper 24a, 24b of the dual element 24a, 24c; 24b, 24d are advantageously standard-pressure elements, whereas the bottom elements 24c, 24d are gas-filled elements with adjustable gas pressure.
  • the top elements 24a, 24b are adjusted to optimum pressure and closed.
  • the supportive capacity of the dual element is adjusted by adjusting the gas pressure of the bottom element 24c, 24d from outside the seat element. Most advantageously the supportive capacity is adjusted by the person seated on the cushion.
  • valves advantageously back pressure valves 53.
  • gas can be fed to each element or element group interconnected by conduits, so that gas cannot be uncontrollably discharged back the way it came.
  • Each conduit, such as hose is similar in cross-section, or the conduits are at least provided with identical end pieces, so that they can be connected to a gas source with a similar joining piece.
  • the employed gas is most advantageously air, and the gas source is a manually operated air pump, i.e. a hand pump 50, as is illustrated in figure 16.
  • a pressure meter 51 In connection with the hand pump 50, there is also provided a pressure meter 51, whereby the gas pressure in an element or element group is observed.
  • the joining piece 52 eliminates the influence of the back pressure valve 53 in order to measure the pressure of an element or element group.
  • the gas pressure of each element or element group is adjusted separately by connecting the hand pump 50 and the pressure meter 51 to said conduit 54, i.e. hose.
  • the hand pump 50 and the pressure meter 51 are connected to the conduit 54 or hose of the next element or element group, and this procedure is continued until all elements or element groups are adjusted.
  • the element groups of the seat cushion are advantageously covered with cloth or the like.
  • the seat cushion includes for instance a cloth bag 55 (figure 11) in which the element groups and a possible underlay are arranged.
  • the gas pressure of the element groups 1, 2, 3; 12, 13, 14; 23, 24, 25; 30, 31, 32 and/or of separate elements of the seat cushion according to the invention is advantageously adjusted to a low basic pressure in connection with manufacturing the seat cushion.
  • the seat cushion When the seat cushion is put to use, it is first set on the seat P of a wheelchair or the like, whereafter the user sits on the seat cushion. Then the gas pressures of the elements in the separate element groups are adjusted by utilizing a gas source, such as a hand pump 50, and a pressure meter 51 as follows.
  • the gas pressures of the first and second element group 1, 2; 12, 13; 23, 24 are adjusted with respect to each other, so that in the region of the buttocks and thighs of person H, the skin surface that rests against the elements is maximized (cf. figure 3). Thus the skin surface pressure is minimized.
  • the gas pressure in the elements of the second element group 2; 13; 24 is adjusted to be such that the tailbone and/or buttocks of the patient H do not get bottom contact with the seat P.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Mattresses And Other Support Structures For Chairs And Beds (AREA)

Claims (15)

  1. Sitzkissen umfassend eine Anzahl länglicher, beutelartiger Elemente, die mit Gas gefüllt sein können, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die beutelartigen Elemente in Gruppen (1, 2, 3; 12, 13, 14; 23, 24, 25; 30, 31, 32) von Elementen angeordnet sind, derart daß
    die erste Elementgruppe (1; 12; 23; 30) drei Elemente enthält, von denen das erste und zweite (1b, 1c; 12b, 12c; 23b, 23c; 30b, 30c) der Länge nach entlang den Seiten (S) des Sitzkissens angeordnet sind, und das dritte (1a; 12a; 23a; 30a) transversal in dem hinteren Teil (T) des Sitzkissens angeordnet ist;
    die zweite Elementgruppe (2; 13; 24; 31) zumindest ein Element (2a, 2b; 13a, 13b; 24a, 24b; 31a, 31b, 31c) enthält, das in der mittleren Zone des Sitzkissens vorgesehen ist; und
    die dritte Elementgruppe (3; 14; 25; 32) zumindest ein Element (3a; 14a; 25a; 32a; 32b) enthält, das transversal an der Vorderseite (E) des Sitzkissens angeordnet ist,
    und daß der Gasdruck der Elemente der besagten Elementgruppen von außerhalb des Sitzkissens einstellbar ist, so daß die erste Elementgruppe das Gesäß eines Patienten auf einer möglichst großen Fläche von den Seiten und den Bereich unterhalb der Lendenwirbelsäule von der Rückseite abstützt, die zweite Elementgruppe den Bereich des Steißbeins und im wesentlichen den rückwärtigen Teil der Oberschenkel abstützt, und die dritte Elementgruppe benutzt wird, um den Sitzwinkel des Patienten einzustellen.
  2. Sitzkissen nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß zumindest ein Teil der Elemente (23a, 23b, 23c, 24a, 24b, 25a; 30a, 30b, 30c, 31a, 31b, 31c, 32a, 32b) der Elementgruppen (23, 24, 25; 30, 31, 32), insbesondere die Elemente (23a, 23b, 23c; 30a, 30b, 30c) der ersten Elementgruppe getrennte, unabhängige Elemente sind, die durch Leitungen (27a, 27b, 27c, 27d, 27e; 35a, 35b, 35c, 35d, 35e) mit dem Äußeren des Sitzkissens verbunden sind, wobei der Gasdruck besagter Elemente von außerhalb des Sitzkissens getrennt einstellbar ist.
  3. Sitzkissen nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Elemente (1a, 1b, 1c, 2a, 2b, 3a; 12a, 12b, 12c, 13a, 13b, 14a) jeder Elementgruppe (1, 2, 3; 12, 13, 14) miteinander verbunden sind, und weiter durch Leitungen (4, 5, 6; 17, 18, 19) mit dem Äußeren des Sitzkissens verbunden sind, und daß der Gasdruck der besagten Elementgruppen von außerhalb des Sitzkissens getrennt einstellbar ist.
  4. Sitzkissen nach einem der vorigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß zumindest ein Teil der Elemente (12a, 12b, 12c, 13a, 13b, 14a; 23a, 23b, 23c; 24a, 24b, 25a; 30a, 30b, 30c; 31a, 31b, 31c; 32a, 32b) der Elementgruppen (12, 13, 14; 23, 24, 25; 30, 31, 32) als bogenartige Strukturen ausgebildet sind, die von der Grundfläche nach oben vortreten und im Querschnitt die Form eines umgedrehten Buchstabens U haben.
  5. Sitzkissen nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß zumindest ein Teil der Elemente (12a, 12b, 12c, 13a, 13b, 14a; 24a, 24b) der Elementgruppen (12, 13, 14; 23, 24, 25) mit zusätzlichen Elementen (12d, 12e, 12f; 13c, 13d, 14b; 24c, 24d) versehen sind, und daher als Doppelelementstrukturen ausgebildet sind.
  6. Sitzkissen nach Anspruch 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die zusätzlichen Elemente (12d, 12e, 12f; 13c, 13d, 14b; 24c, 24d) gasgefüllte Elemente sind.
  7. Sitzkissen nach Anspruch 5 oder 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die eigentlichen Elemente (24a, 24b) Elemente mit Standarddruck sind, wohingegen die zusätzlichen Elemente (24c, 24d) einen einstellbaren Gasdruck haben.
  8. Sitzkissen nach einem der vorigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Elemente der zweiten Elementgruppe (2; 13; 24) zwei aneinandergrenzende Elemente (2a, 2b; 13a, 13b; 24a, 24b) enthält.
  9. Sitzkissen nach einem der vorigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die erste und zweite Elementgruppe (1, 2) aufeinander abgestimmt sind, so daß der Bereich des Steißbeins des Patienten im wesentlichen auf dem Bereich der Verbindungsnähte (10a) der Elementgruppen ruht.
  10. Sitzkissen nach einem der vorigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Elemente (1a, 1b, 1c; 12a, 12b, 12c; 23a, 23b, 23c) der ersten Elementgruppe (1; 12; 23) so ausgestaltet sind, daß die Höhe (h1) der Elemente im Zustand unter Druck größer ist als die Höhe (h2) der Elemente (2a, 2b; 13a, 13b; 24a, 24b) der zweiten Elementgruppe (2; 13; 24) im Zustand unter Druck.
  11. Sitzkissen nach Anspruch 10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Elemente (3a; 14a; 25a) der dritten Elementgruppe (3; 14; 25) so ausgestaltet sind, daß die Höhe (h3) der Elemente im Zustand unter Druck vermittels des Gasfüllvolumens und demgemäß des Gasdrucks, mit Vorteil in dem Bereich zwischen den Höhen (h1, h2) der ersten (1; 12; 23) und zweiten (2; 13; 24) Elementgruppe, einstellbar ist.
  12. Sitzkissen nach einem der vorigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Sitzkissen eine plattenartige, flexible Unterlage (16; 26; 37) umfaßt, an die die Elemente (12a, 12b, 12c, 13a, 13b, 14a; 23a, 23b, 23c; 24a, 24b, 25a; 30a, 30b, 30c, 31a, 31b, 31c; 32a, 32b) der Elementgruppen (12, 13, 14; 23, 24, 25; 30, 31, 32) angebracht sind.
  13. Sitzkissen nach Anspruch 12, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Elemente (38) mittels Befestigungsgliedern (42) lösbar an der Unterlage (39) befestigt sind.
  14. Sitzkissen nach einem der vorigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Sitzkissen eine plattenartige, flexible Unterlage (26; 39) umfaßt, die zwei überlappende und zumindest teilweise lösbare Unterlagenelemente (26a, 26b; 39a, 39b) enthält, und daß zischen besagten Elementen Rillen (46) oder Vertiefungen für Leitungen (47) der Elemente oder Elementgruppen vorgesehen sind.
  15. Sitzkissen nach einem der vorigen Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß Leitungen (47) der Elemente oder Elementgruppen des Sitzkissens ein Rückschlagventil (53) enthalten, und daß die Leitungen (47) mit größtem Vorteil mit einem Druckmesser (51) und einer Handpumpe (50) versehen sind, zum Pumpen von Luft in die Elemente, um den Druck darin einzustellen.
EP96904874A 1995-03-24 1996-03-08 Sitzkissen Expired - Lifetime EP0817585B1 (de)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FI951421A FI108111B (fi) 1995-03-24 1995-03-24 Istuintyyny ja menetelmä sen säätämiseksi
FI951421 1995-03-24
PCT/FI1996/000143 WO1996029918A1 (en) 1995-03-24 1996-03-08 Seat cushion

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0817585A1 EP0817585A1 (de) 1998-01-14
EP0817585B1 true EP0817585B1 (de) 2001-12-19

Family

ID=8543121

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP96904874A Expired - Lifetime EP0817585B1 (de) 1995-03-24 1996-03-08 Sitzkissen

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Country Link
EP (1) EP0817585B1 (de)
JP (1) JPH11502447A (de)
AU (1) AU4881296A (de)
DE (1) DE69618182T2 (de)
FI (1) FI108111B (de)
WO (1) WO1996029918A1 (de)

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6671911B1 (en) 1999-05-21 2004-01-06 Hill Engineering Continuous wave cushioned support
WO2001089348A2 (en) * 2000-05-19 2001-11-29 Hill Engineering Continuous wave cushioned support
JP5580649B2 (ja) * 2010-04-12 2014-08-27 ファインテック株式会社 エアクッション
IES20100272A2 (en) * 2010-04-30 2011-12-07 Vita Cortex Technologies Ltd An air cushioned support system
WO2017021996A1 (ja) * 2015-07-31 2017-02-09 有限会社小池経編染工所 クッション

Family Cites Families (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2199047A (en) * 1939-02-24 1940-04-30 Fisher Norman Pneumatic cushion
DE1138200B (de) * 1957-03-30 1962-10-18 Ingeborg Von Felgel Farnholz G Aufblasbare Luftmatratze
FR1202100A (fr) * 1958-09-11 1960-01-07 Etablissements Jacques Rieger Perfectionnement apporté aux matelas pneumatiques
FR1291237A (fr) * 1961-05-31 1962-04-20 Talley Surgical Instr Ltd élément d'appui perfectionné pour le corps
DE2348124C3 (de) * 1973-09-25 1978-06-15 Gerard Kingersheim Burgin (Frankreich) Sitz- und/oder Rückenlehnenpolster für einen Stuhl oder Sessel

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO1996029918A1 (en) 1996-10-03
FI108111B (fi) 2001-11-30
AU4881296A (en) 1996-10-16
EP0817585A1 (de) 1998-01-14
FI951421A0 (fi) 1995-03-24
DE69618182D1 (de) 2002-01-31
DE69618182T2 (de) 2002-08-14
JPH11502447A (ja) 1999-03-02
FI951421A (fi) 1996-09-25

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