CELLULAR AIR LOSS MATTRESS SYSTEM

摘要

Generally, the present invention is directed to a cellular air loss mattress system comprising an air mattress (10) and an air supply means (37). Cells of the mattress system are welded onto a unitary top piece (14) and a unitary bottom piece (15). Means for supplying air, preferably an air blower, is connected to the center cell (19) (also referred to as the pelvis cell) via a supply hose. The air exiting the air blower travels through the supply hose and fills the center cell. The air is allowed to directly travel into adjacent cells via internal air connectors (11, 12, 13). The inner diameter of each air connector is adjusted to create different pressure zones within the air mattress (10) to support the different pressure requirements of a patient's body. The highest pressure zone is the center cell (19) that initially receives air from the air supply means (37). The pressure decreases as air moves from the center cell (19) to adjacent cells. The top piece of the air mattress preferably has a plurality of tiny holes (24) that allows for air to escape to help maintain the patient's skin and to help prevent skin breakdown.