APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ASSISTING BODY MOVEMENT

摘要

An apparatus for assisting movement for a subject disposed on a support structure comprises: a set of inflatable bags wearable on a body of the subject, the set of inflatable bags comprising at least one inflatable bag; a pump assembly for inflating and deflating the set of inflatable bags, in association with processing unit execution of program instructions to provide a cyclically alternating and pulsating inflation/deflation sequence over time; and tubing for fluidically coupling to the pump assembly and the set of inflatable bags. The inflation and deflation of the set of inflatable bags assist movement of the subject's body relative to the support structure. The apparatus can be independently operated by the subject, substantially reducing the frequency of disrupted rest for caretakers, while effectively providing independent relief of discomfort and improved sleep quality for the subjects.