EP1056372A1 - Method and apparatus for supporting an object requiring support, in particular a patient's body with integrated system for dynamic and automatic pressure equalisation - Google Patents

Method and apparatus for supporting an object requiring support, in particular a patient's body with integrated system for dynamic and automatic pressure equalisation

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Publication number
EP1056372A1
EP1056372A1 EP99902624A EP99902624A EP1056372A1 EP 1056372 A1 EP1056372 A1 EP 1056372A1 EP 99902624 A EP99902624 A EP 99902624A EP 99902624 A EP99902624 A EP 99902624A EP 1056372 A1 EP1056372 A1 EP 1056372A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pressure
chamber
sensor
support device
predetermined
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP99902624A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1056372B1 (en
Inventor
Jean-Louis Viard
Gilles Camus
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.)
Hill Rom Industries SAS
Original Assignee
Hill Rom Industries SAS
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Hill Rom Industries SAS filed Critical Hill Rom Industries SAS
Publication of EP1056372A1 publication Critical patent/EP1056372A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1056372B1 publication Critical patent/EP1056372B1/en
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
    • 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
    • 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
    • A61G2203/00—General characteristics of devices
    • A61G2203/30—General characteristics of devices characterised by sensor means
    • A61G2203/34—General characteristics of devices characterised by sensor means for pressure
    • 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
    • A61G2203/00—General characteristics of devices
    • A61G2203/30—General characteristics of devices characterised by sensor means
    • A61G2203/36—General characteristics of devices characterised by sensor means for motion
    • 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
    • A61G2203/00—General characteristics of devices
    • A61G2203/30—General characteristics of devices characterised by sensor means
    • A61G2203/44—General characteristics of devices characterised by sensor means for weight

Definitions

  • the present invention essentially relates to a method and an apparatus for supporting an element to be supported, in particular a patient's body, with an integrated dynamic and automatic pressure balance system.
  • interface pressures are indeed the main factor in the development of complications resulting from prolonged immobilization in the subject at risk, in particular pressure sores.
  • the interface pressures also represent an essential element of the concept of comfort.
  • Support devices have already been proposed in the prior art comprising a support device proper for an element to be supported, in particular the body of a patient, a support device generally mainly known under the name of mattress.
  • Other support devices are naturally armchairs, cushions, back parts of seats.
  • the support device proper comprises at least one closed chamber or with controlled exhaust, flexible, inflatable under pressure as a function of the maximum insertion distance authorized in the support of the element to be supported.
  • filling and evacuation means are provided to fill or inflate said chamber until the depression is brought back below the maximum authorized insertion distance.
  • the object of the present invention is to solve the new technical problem consisting in providing a solution which makes it possible to achieve dynamic and automatic or substantially automatic regulation of the inflation pressure of at least one chamber provided in or constituting the device for support, without using an electric, capacitive or inductive type detector device.
  • the invention therefore aims at a solution entirely different from the solutions previously recommended, thereby opening up a particularly advantageous new way.
  • the present invention also aims to solve the new technical problem consisting in providing a solution which makes it possible to achieve dynamic and automatic or substantially automatic regulation of the inflation pressure of at least one chamber provided in or constituting the device. of support, as a function of the weight of the morphological characteristics of the body to be supported, by comparing the pressure existing in said chamber with that restored by an appropriate sensor and cooperating with said chamber so as to give a coherent image of the forces which are applied to it and of their variation in order to bring the body to bear at an optimal equilibrium position from the point of view of the interface pressures exerted on said body at a given instant.
  • the main object of the present invention is also to solve the aforementioned new technical problem by the use of a simple, economically inexpensive solution, thus making it possible to reduce the manufacturing and operating cost.
  • the present invention also aims to solve the new technical problems stated above, so as to provide an efficient solution whose technical and physical characteristics, in particular the thickness, are such that they can be used in any support device, in particular mattresses including mattress toppers, also cushions and armchairs, or even in other types of applications such as, for example, lifting and measuring.
  • the main object of the present invention is also to solve the new technical problem consisting in providing a solution advantageously making it possible to integrate an efficient pressure regulation system in a limited thickness, reliably, safely, easy to use, economical and usable on an industrial and medical scale.
  • the present invention provides a method of dynamic and substantially automatic or automatic regulation of the inflation pressure of at least one first flexible, inflatable chamber provided in or constituting a support device, in particular a mattress, a mattress topper, an armchair, a cushion or a seat back, comprising a step of detecting the inflation pressure at a given instant, called P ⁇ (t) of said chamber, and a step of correcting this pressure P ⁇ (t) , as a function of predetermined support characteristics, characterized in that at least one physical pressure sensor is provided, comprising at least a second inflatable chamber inflated to a predetermined initial pressure P, in that said sensor is placed relative to said device of support so that the second chamber of said sensor has its pressure influenced by a pressure change in the first chamber the support device; in that the instantaneous pressure value at a given instant called P 2 (t) is detected in the second chamber of the sensor, in that the pressure measured in the first chamber P ⁇ (t) is compared with the pressure measured in the second chamber P 2 (t
  • the senor has at least a second chamber having a substantially constant volume.
  • the initial inflation pressure of the second chamber of the sensor is fixed at a predetermined value and this pressure is then allowed to evolve freely as a function of the influence of changes in pressure in the first chamber of the support device.
  • the initial pressure of the second chamber of the sensor is equal to or substantially equal to atmospheric pressure.
  • the sensor comprising the aforementioned second chamber is arranged under the support device comprising at least said first chamber.
  • the pressure P ⁇ (t) in the first chamber is corrected when this pressure P ⁇ (t) deviates from a predetermined value or range of value of the pressure P 2 (t) of the second chamber serving as the reference pressure.
  • the present invention also relates to a support device with dynamic and substantially automatic or automatic regulation of the inflation pressure Pi of at least one first flexible, inflatable chamber of a device for supporting an element to be supported , in particular the body of a patient, means for detecting the pressure in said first chamber; and means for controlling means for correcting the pressure in said first chamber as a function of predetermined pressure characteristics, comprising first means for inflating / deflating said chamber of the support device to a variable pressure, including a predetermined initial pressure, characterized in that it comprises at least one physical pressure sensor comprising at least one second inflatable chamber, inflated to a predetermined initial pressure P 2 , said sensor being arranged so as to have the pressure of its second chamber influenced by a change in pressure in the first chamber; means for comparing the pressure Pi in said first chamber with the pressure P 2 in said second chamber, said control means optionally controlling the means for correcting the pressure in said first chamber when the pressure difference is different from one predetermined set pressure value or a predetermined set pressure range.
  • the invention makes it possible to solve all the technical problems previously stated in a reliable, safe, easy to implement, economical and usable on an industrial and medical scale.
  • the invention provides a solution advantageously making it possible to integrate the various means or devices of the invention in a pressure regulation system performing in a limited thickness, thereby making it possible in turn to limit the overall size of the support device.
  • FIG. 1 schematically shows a currently preferred embodiment of a support apparatus according to the present invention, comprising a support device with a single chamber;
  • FIG. 2 shows a detailed top view of the sensor and the electronic system comprising associated pressure detection and comparison means, along a trace line II-II of Figure 1;
  • - Figure 3 shows a schematic view of the control means 30 of the device;
  • - Figure 4 shows the electronic circuit of the dynamic and substantially automatic or automatic pressure regulation device in the support device implementing the functions defined in Figure 3;
  • - Figure 5 shows a pressure reaction curve separate from the mattress constituting here the support device 12, Pi, on the ordinate, in inch units of water equivalent to 2.54 bars, as a function of the load applied directly to the center the pressure sensor 50 expressed in kilograms, reported on the abscissa, the sensor 50 being physically uncoupled from the mattress 12;
  • - Figure 8 represents the dynamic pressure value Pi or P 2 of response respectively of the mattress 12 or the sensor 50, expressed on the ordinate in inch of water equivalent to 2.54 mbar, according to the actual load applied to the mattress forming the support device 12, such as here a patient H applying by the weight of his body a load expressed in kilograms and on the abscissa
  • a support device is represented by the general reference number 10.
  • This support device makes it possible to support an element to be supported, in particular, as represented the body of a patient such as 'a human being H.
  • This apparatus 10 comprises a support device proper 12 comprising at least one closed chamber or with controlled exhaust 14, flexible, inflatable, which can for example be composed of a multiplicity of inflatable tubes communicating with each other, said chamber 14 being inflatable under an inflation pressure Pi.
  • this chamber 14 is not necessarily inflated, but it is more practical to start with an initial pressure, for example close to that of the second chamber 51 described below.
  • This chamber 14 has an upper face 15 serving as a support for the element to be supported H, a lower face 16 which can, for example, here rest on a base element represented by the general reference number 40 which, itself, may rest directly or indirectly on a base not shown here.
  • the device 12 - base element 40 assembly can be included in a cover 1 1.
  • the apparatus also includes means 30 for controlling means 20 of so-called correction control of the filling pressure Pi of the chamber 14 by pumping means 20, comprising filling means proper 21 such as a compressor, using a fluid for filling the chamber 14, in particular air, evacuation means 22 such as a controlled leak valve, connected to the chamber 14 by an appropriate pipe 23.
  • Means 31 pressure measurement (see FIG. 3), in particular of the pressure Pi in the first chamber 14 are also provided, connected to the first chamber 14 by a suitable conduit 32. These means 31 are physically incorporated into the means 30.
  • the apparatus 10 also comprises a physical pressure sensor 50 comprising at least a second inflatable chamber 51, inflated to a predetermined initial pressure P.
  • This sensor 50 is connected by a conduit 34 to the pressure measuring means 31 which also includes, in an integrated manner, means 38 for comparing the pressure between the pressure Pi prevailing in the first chamber 14 of the support device 12 and the pressure P 2 prevailing in the second chamber 51 of the sensor 50.
  • this physical pressure sensor 50 is disposed relative to the support device 12 so as to have its pressure P 2 (t) prevailing in the chamber 51 influenced by a change in pressure Pj ( t) prevailing in the first chamber 14 of the support device 12.
  • the sensor 50 while remaining independent, gives a pressure value P 2 (t) permanently reproducing a coherent image of the pressure P ⁇ (t) prevailing in the first chamber 14 of the support device 12.
  • this sensor 50 comprises a closed, flexible pocket 52 defining the chamber 51 whose volume, once said chamber 51 is filled with an inert fluid such as distilled and treated water, the silicone oil or any other suitable fluid, is substantially constant so that the sensor acts like a real mechanical pressure transducer.
  • an inert fluid such as distilled and treated water, the silicone oil or any other suitable fluid
  • the pressure measurement means 31 which advantageously carry out a differential measurement of the pressures P ⁇ (t) and P (t) exerted respectively in the chamber 14 of the chamber 51, are an integral part of the control means 30, constantly converting into an electrical signal and by appropriate means shown in FIG. 3, the pressure differential value P ⁇ (t) - P (t) and delivering an electrical voltage, by means of means 38 also comprising a shaping circuit (see FIG.
  • All the circuits constituting the means 30 for controlling the means 20 for filling / evacuating the fluid from the chamber 14 are clearly understandable to those skilled in the art from the electronic circuit of FIG. 3 which is incorporated here by reference fully in description and is part integral of the present invention.
  • the means 31 for measuring the pressure Pi, P, for comparing and for delivering an output voltage value V s are well known to those skilled in the art and available commercially.
  • the sensor 50 is broken down into the pocket 52 defining the pressure take-off chamber 51 P 2 (t) of an electronic circuit 30 constantly converting the pressure difference P ⁇ (t) - P 2 (t) into an electrical signal ) between the chamber 14 and the chamber 52 so as to automatically regulate the pressure in the chamber 14 by controlling the means 20 for filling (21) and evacuating (22) fluid.
  • an electronic circuit 30 separately capturing the pressures Pi and P 2 respectively in the first chamber 14 and the second chamber 51, converting these pressures into signals electric then comparing these signals to finally automatically control the means 20 for filling and evacuating fluid from chamber 14.
  • this type of pressure sensor 50 associated with the support device 12 and cooperating with an alarm system can also be used to monitor the patient, to detect the exit or possible fall of this patient.
  • the second chamber 51 of the physical pressure sensor 50 be filled with a pressure P 2 close to, or equal to, atmospheric pressure so as to: a) ensure, taking into account of the constant or essentially constant volume of the chamber 51, the linearity of the response of the physical pressure sensor 50 in the pressure measurement range considered, b) does not compromise from the outset, by a significant pressure P 2 in the chamber 51, patient comfort and the performance of the support device 12 by a substantially hard surface, c) establishing a reference for the system, easily reproducible and controllable and constituting the zero of the measurement system, d) maximizing the amplitude of the response of the sensor 50 and therefore its resolution.
  • a sensor 50 whose initial pressure P 2 in the chamber 51 would be fixed at any predetermined pressure value, different from atmospheric pressure constitutes another type of embodiment perfectly usable, in particular in other applications. It is also understood that the apparatus according to the invention behaves like a logic system with three states: a) rest at a given pressure Pi in the first chamber 14 of the support device 12, b) inflation of the chamber 14, or c) deflating the chamber 14.
  • a pressure P ⁇ (t) is produced in the first chamber 14, for example by applying a body of a human being H to the upper face 15 of the chamber 14 or its removal, this pressure is transmitted to the pocket 52 defining the second chamber 51 which reacts with a pressure P 2 (t).
  • the pressure P ⁇ (t) is compared to the pressure P 2 (t). a) If the difference in pressure P ⁇ (t) -P 2 (t) is less than a limit minus epsilon determined a priori, the filling means 21, such as a compressor, are actuated so as to restore within the limits provided pressure balance by inflation of the chamber; b) if the difference in pressure P 1 (t) -P 2 (t) is greater than a limit plus epsilon determined a priori, the discharge means 22, such as a leak valve, are actuated so as to restore within the limit provided the pressure balance by deflating the chamber 14; c) if the difference in pressure P ⁇ (t) -P 2 (t) is between -epsilon and + epsilon, the limit determined a priori, nothing happens, the pressures Pi and P 2 are considered to be in the vicinity l one of the other.
  • the filling 21 or discharge 22 means are used for a certain duration ⁇ t until the instantaneous pressure balance is restored within the predetermined limits, that is to say until l 'we have P] (t + ⁇ t) between P 2 (t + ⁇ t) - epsilon and P 2 (t + ⁇ t) + epsilon.
  • the hysteresis of the system allows regulation between the lower and upper limits of the setpoint area and avoids nuisance oscillation phenomena.
  • the sensor 50 associated with the electronic measurement device 30 provides an electrical signal proportional to the pressure difference P ⁇ (t) -P 2 (t) between the first chamber 14 of the support device 12 and the second chamber 51 of the sensor respectively. 50, resulting from the insertion of the body here of a human being H into the chamber 14.
  • This electrical signal represents the instantaneous set point of the system in dynamic equilibrium and around which the pressure regulation in the chamber 14 is effected, corrected automatically and in real time so as to ensure the pressure balance between the second chamber 51 of the pocket 52 of the sensor 50 and the first chamber 14 of the support device proper 12.
  • Each set point corresponds to a given regulation pressure and therefore a position of the body in the chamber 14 according to its weight and its own morphological characteristics.
  • the pressure is regulated by the means for filling and evacuating fluid, in particular all or nothing, by means of the compressor 21 and the controlled leak valve 22.
  • the response of the system is as fast as can be the sensor 50 and the electronic control unit 30 coupled to the means 20 for filling (21) and evacuating (22) with fluid.
  • the 10 V reference voltage is used for control and alarm comparators. It also serves to supply the electric pressure sensor 31 with pressure called U3.
  • An initial adjustment makes it possible to shift the signal from point A in order to compensate for any dispersions due to the sensor 50 or to the electronic components.
  • the signal obtained at point B is therefore that of point A increased by the initial setting signal.
  • the electrical signal obtained at point B is therefore that of point A increased by the start-up signal.
  • a pressure alarm can be triggered when the pressure difference P ⁇ (t) -P 2 (t) is very outside the regulation range, the alarm value is for example + 2 inches H O.
  • the alarm signal present at point E is timed before activating the actual alarm, so as not to take into account rapid pressure variations such as, for example, those resulting from the patient's movements.
  • This element response diagram is the subject of the graphical curves of FIGS. 5 to 8.
  • the experimental reaction curve of the support device 12, here a mattress is obtained in the form of a graph where the pressure Pi in the mattress is a function of the load in kilograms applied centered on the sensor 50, the sensor 50 being uncoupled from the mattress 12, the initial pressure being, for reasons of convenience, fixed at 1.4 inches H 2 O.
  • the curve obtained shows that the pressure response of the mattress 12 is linear in the field considered.
  • the curves obtained in real operation make it possible to observe, in relation to the experimental results, the influence of the morphological data for a given population representative of the morphological characteristics of the population at risk as well as the influence of the inclinations of the rest plane.
  • the curves have substantially the same appearance, for example for all the angles of the back-up part of an articulated bed at 0 °, 45 ° and 60 °, and for all body weights. ée 50 to 100 kg, with interface pressures Pi in chamber 14 of the mattress, the values of which show the effect of regulation in the field under consideration.
  • the invention makes it possible to implement the process of dynamic and automatic regulation of pressures in a safe and reliable, economical manner, usable on an industrial and commercial scale as previously stated.

Abstract

A method and apparatus to comfortably support a patient on an inflatable chamber. The support apparatus includes an inflatable mattress and a pump to correct the pressure of the mattress. An inflatable chamber is provided below the mattress to act as a pressure transducer. When the difference in pressure between the inflatable mattress and the inflatable sensor reaches a predetermined value, a controller actuates a correction device including a pump and a release valve to correct the pressure of the inflatable mattress. The apparatus allows the mattress to be automatically maintained at a desirable pressure.

Description

Procédé et appareil de support d'un élément à supporter, en particulier le corps d'un patient, à système intégré d'équilibre dynamique et automatique de pressionMethod and apparatus for supporting an element to be supported, in particular the body of a patient, with an integrated dynamic and automatic pressure balance system
La présente invention concerne essentiellement un procédé et un appareil de support d'un élément à supporter, en particulier d'un corps d'un patient, à système intégré d'équilibre dynamique et automatique de pression.The present invention essentially relates to a method and an apparatus for supporting an element to be supported, in particular a patient's body, with an integrated dynamic and automatic pressure balance system.
On sait que dans la pratique médicale, les pressions d'interface constituent en effet le facteur principal de développement des complications résultant de l'immobilisation prolongée chez le sujet à risque, en particulier des escarres.We know that in medical practice, interface pressures are indeed the main factor in the development of complications resulting from prolonged immobilization in the subject at risk, in particular pressure sores.
Plus généralement, les pressions d'interface représentent également un élément essentiel de la notion de confort.More generally, the interface pressures also represent an essential element of the concept of comfort.
On a déjà proposé dans l'art antérieur des appareils de support comprenant un dispositif de support proprement dit d'un élément à supporter, en particulier le corps d'un patient, dispositif de support généralement principalement connu sous le nom de matelas. D'autres dispositifs de support sont naturellement les fauteuils, coussins, parties dorsales de sièges.Support devices have already been proposed in the prior art comprising a support device proper for an element to be supported, in particular the body of a patient, a support device generally mainly known under the name of mattress. Other support devices are naturally armchairs, cushions, back parts of seats.
De tels appareils de support ont par exemple été décrits dans le document EP-A-0 218 301 = US-A-4,873,737 ou encore dans le document EP-A- 0 676 158 antérieur du déposant. Dans ce document antérieur, le dispositif de support proprement dit comprend au moins une chambre fermée ou à échappement contrôlé, souple, gonflable sous une pression fonction de la distance maximale d'enfoncement autorisée dans le support de l'élément à supporter. De ce fait, des moyens de remplissage et d'évacuation sont prévus pour remplir ou gonfler ladite chambre jusqu'à ramener l'enfoncement en-dessous de la distance maximale d'enfoncement autorisée.Such support devices have for example been described in document EP-A-0 218 301 = US-A-4,873,737 or in document EP-A-0 676 158 prior to the applicant. In this prior document, the support device proper comprises at least one closed chamber or with controlled exhaust, flexible, inflatable under pressure as a function of the maximum insertion distance authorized in the support of the element to be supported. As a result, filling and evacuation means are provided to fill or inflate said chamber until the depression is brought back below the maximum authorized insertion distance.
Dans le cadre du document EP-A-0 218 301, il est proposé de modifier la pression lorsque la profondeur d'enfoncement maximale est atteinte, de sorte que l'enfoncement varie en fonction du poids des patients. Dans le cadre du document plus récent du déposant EP-0 676 158, il a été proposé de réaliser un enfoncement du patient à une profondeur essentiellement constante dans le dispositif de support, tel qu'un matelas, indépendamment du poids d'un patient, afin de laisser pénétrer profondément l'élément à supporter tel que le corps d'un patient dans le dispositif de support pour obtenir une meilleure distribution du poids sur la surface du support, grâce à une solution qui utilise un capteur disposé sur le dispositif de support, tel qu'un matelas, dont le principe est basé sur la variation du coefficient de self-induction d'une bobine, élément à part entière d'un oscillateur.In the context of document EP-A-0 218 301, it is proposed to modify the pressure when the maximum insertion depth is reached, so that the insertion varies according to the weight of the patients. In the context of the more recent document of the applicant EP-0 676 158, it has been proposed to depress the patient to an essentially constant depth in the support device, such as a mattress, regardless of the weight of a patient, in order to allow the element to be supported, such as the body of a patient, to penetrate deeply into the support device to obtain a better distribution of the weight on the surface of the support, by means of a solution which uses a sensor placed on the support device , such as mattress, the principle of which is based on the variation of the self-induction coefficient of a coil, a fully-fledged element of an oscillator.
La présente invention a pour but de résoudre le nouveau problème technique consistant en la fourniture d'une solution qui permette de réaliser une régulation dynamique et automatique ou sensiblement automatique de la pression de gonflage d'au moins une chambre prévue dans ou constituant le dispositif de support, sans faire appel à un dispositif détecteur de type électrique, capacitif ou inductif. L'invention vise donc une solution entièrement différente des solutions antérieurement préconisées, en ouvrant ainsi une nouvelle voie particulièrement avantageuse.The object of the present invention is to solve the new technical problem consisting in providing a solution which makes it possible to achieve dynamic and automatic or substantially automatic regulation of the inflation pressure of at least one chamber provided in or constituting the device for support, without using an electric, capacitive or inductive type detector device. The invention therefore aims at a solution entirely different from the solutions previously recommended, thereby opening up a particularly advantageous new way.
La présente invention a encore pour but de résoudre le nouveau problème technique consistant en la fourniture d'une solution qui permette de réaliser une régulation dynamique et automatique ou sensiblement automatique de la pression de gonflage d'au moins une chambre prévue dans ou constituant le dispositif de support, en fonction du poids des caractéristiques morphologiques du corps à supporter, par la comparaison de la pression existant dans ladite chambre à celle restituée par un capteur approprié et coopérant avec ladite chambre de manière à donner une image cohérente des forces qui y sont appliquées et de leur variation dans le but d'amener le corps à supporter à une position d'équilibre optimale du point de vue des pressions d'interface s'exerçant sur ledit corps à un instant donné.The present invention also aims to solve the new technical problem consisting in providing a solution which makes it possible to achieve dynamic and automatic or substantially automatic regulation of the inflation pressure of at least one chamber provided in or constituting the device. of support, as a function of the weight of the morphological characteristics of the body to be supported, by comparing the pressure existing in said chamber with that restored by an appropriate sensor and cooperating with said chamber so as to give a coherent image of the forces which are applied to it and of their variation in order to bring the body to bear at an optimal equilibrium position from the point of view of the interface pressures exerted on said body at a given instant.
D'autre part, la présente invention a également pour but principal de résoudre le nouveau problème technique précité par l'emploi d'une solution simple, économiquement peu coûteuse, permettant ainsi de réduire le coût de fabrication et fonctionnement.On the other hand, the main object of the present invention is also to solve the aforementioned new technical problem by the use of a simple, economically inexpensive solution, thus making it possible to reduce the manufacturing and operating cost.
La présente invention a encore pour but de résoudre les nouveaux problèmes techniques énoncés ci-dessus, de manière à fournir une solution performante dont les caractéristiques techniques et physiques, notamment l'épaisseur, sont telles qu'elles soient utilisables dans tout dispositif de support, en particulier des matelas y compris les surmatelas, également les coussins et les fauteuils, voire dans d'autres types d'applications comme, par exemple, le levage et la mesure.The present invention also aims to solve the new technical problems stated above, so as to provide an efficient solution whose technical and physical characteristics, in particular the thickness, are such that they can be used in any support device, in particular mattresses including mattress toppers, also cushions and armchairs, or even in other types of applications such as, for example, lifting and measuring.
La présente invention a encore pour but principal de résoudre le nouveau problème technique consistant en la fourniture d'une solution permettant avantageusement d'intégrer un système de régulation en pression performante dans une épaisseur limitée, de manière fiable, sûre, facile à mettre en oeuvre, économique et utilisable à l'échelle industrielle et médicale.The main object of the present invention is also to solve the new technical problem consisting in providing a solution advantageously making it possible to integrate an efficient pressure regulation system in a limited thickness, reliably, safely, easy to use, economical and usable on an industrial and medical scale.
Ainsi, selon un premier aspect, la présente invention fournit un procédé de régulation dynamique et sensiblement automatique ou automatique de la pression de gonflage d'au moins une première chambre souple, gonflable prévue dans ou constituant un dispositif de support, en particulier un matelas, un surmatelas, un fauteuil, un coussin ou un dossier de siège, comprenant une étape de détection de la pression de gonflage à un instant donné, dite Pι(t) de ladite chambre, et une étape de correction de cette pression Pι(t), en fonction de caractéristiques de support prédéterminées, caractérisé en ce qu'on prévoit au moins un capteur physique de pression, comprenant au moins une deuxième chambre gonflable gonflée à une pression initiale prédéterminée P , en ce qu'on dispose ledit capteur relativement audit dispositif de support de manière à ce que la deuxième chambre dudit capteur ait sa pression influencée par un changement de pression dans la première chambre du dispositif de support ; en ce qu'on détecte la valeur de pression instantanée à un instant donné dite P2(t) dans la deuxième chambre du capteur, en ce qu'on compare la pression mesurée dans la première chambre Pι(t) avec la pression mesurée dans la deuxième chambre P2(t) et en ce qu'on procède éventuellement à une correction de pression dans la première chambre lorsque l'écart de pression mesuré est supérieur à une valeur de pression de consigne ou une plage de valeur de pression de consigne prédéterminée.Thus, according to a first aspect, the present invention provides a method of dynamic and substantially automatic or automatic regulation of the inflation pressure of at least one first flexible, inflatable chamber provided in or constituting a support device, in particular a mattress, a mattress topper, an armchair, a cushion or a seat back, comprising a step of detecting the inflation pressure at a given instant, called Pι (t) of said chamber, and a step of correcting this pressure Pι (t) , as a function of predetermined support characteristics, characterized in that at least one physical pressure sensor is provided, comprising at least a second inflatable chamber inflated to a predetermined initial pressure P, in that said sensor is placed relative to said device of support so that the second chamber of said sensor has its pressure influenced by a pressure change in the first chamber the support device; in that the instantaneous pressure value at a given instant called P 2 (t) is detected in the second chamber of the sensor, in that the pressure measured in the first chamber Pι (t) is compared with the pressure measured in the second chamber P 2 (t) and in that a pressure correction is optionally carried out in the first chamber when the measured pressure difference is greater than a set pressure value or a range of set pressure value predetermined.
Selon un mode de réalisation avantageux de l'invention, le capteur présente au moins une deuxième chambre ayant un volume sensiblement constant. Selon encore un autre mode de réalisation avantageux de l'invention, la pression initiale de gonflage de la deuxième chambre du capteur est fixée à une valeur prédéterminée et on laisse ensuite librement évoluer cette pression en fonction de l'influence de modifications de pression dans la première chambre du dispositif de support. De préférence, la pression initiale de la deuxième chambre du capteur est égale ou sensiblement égale à la pression atmosphérique. Selon encore un mode de réalisation avantageux de l'invention, le capteur comprenant la deuxième chambre précitée est disposé sous le dispositif de support comprenant au moins ladite première chambre.According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sensor has at least a second chamber having a substantially constant volume. According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the initial inflation pressure of the second chamber of the sensor is fixed at a predetermined value and this pressure is then allowed to evolve freely as a function of the influence of changes in pressure in the first chamber of the support device. Preferably, the initial pressure of the second chamber of the sensor is equal to or substantially equal to atmospheric pressure. According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sensor comprising the aforementioned second chamber is arranged under the support device comprising at least said first chamber.
Selon encore un autre mode de réalisation avantageux du procédé selon l'invention, on corrige la pression Pι(t) dans la première chambre lorsque cette pression Pι(t) s'écarte d'une valeur ou d'une plage de valeur prédéterminée de la pression P2(t) de la deuxième chambre servant de pression de consigne. Selon un deuxième aspect, la présente invention concerne aussi un appareil de support à régulation dynamique et sensiblement automatique ou automatique de la pression de gonflage Pi d'au moins une première chambre souple, gonflable d'un dispositif de support d'un élément à supporter, en particulier le corps d'un patient, des moyens de détection de la pression dans ladite première chambre ; et des moyens de commande de moyens de correction de la pression dans ladite première chambre en fonction de caractéristiques de pression prédéterminées, comprenant des premiers moyens de gonflage/dégonflage de ladite chambre du dispositif de support à une pression variable, incluant une pression initiale prédéterminée, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend au moins un capteur physique de pression comprenant au moins une deuxième chambre gonflable, gonflée à une pression initiale prédéterminée P2, ledit capteur étant disposé de manière à avoir la pression de sa deuxième chambre influencée par un changement de pression dans la première chambre ; des moyens de comparaison de la pression Pi dans ladite première chambre avec la pression P2 dans ladite deuxième chambre, lesdits moyens de commande commandant éventuellement les moyens de correction de la pression dans ladite première chambre lorsque l'écart de pression est différent d'une valeur de pression de consigne prédéterminée ou d'une plage de valeur de pression de consigne prédéterminée. Divers modes de réalisation avantageux de l'appareil résultent des sous-revendications d'appareil et également des modes de réalisation avantageux du procédé précédemment énoncé, ainsi que de la description suivante qui fait partie intégrante de la présente invention.According to yet another advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the pressure Pι (t) in the first chamber is corrected when this pressure Pι (t) deviates from a predetermined value or range of value of the pressure P 2 (t) of the second chamber serving as the reference pressure. According to a second aspect, the present invention also relates to a support device with dynamic and substantially automatic or automatic regulation of the inflation pressure Pi of at least one first flexible, inflatable chamber of a device for supporting an element to be supported , in particular the body of a patient, means for detecting the pressure in said first chamber; and means for controlling means for correcting the pressure in said first chamber as a function of predetermined pressure characteristics, comprising first means for inflating / deflating said chamber of the support device to a variable pressure, including a predetermined initial pressure, characterized in that it comprises at least one physical pressure sensor comprising at least one second inflatable chamber, inflated to a predetermined initial pressure P 2 , said sensor being arranged so as to have the pressure of its second chamber influenced by a change in pressure in the first chamber; means for comparing the pressure Pi in said first chamber with the pressure P 2 in said second chamber, said control means optionally controlling the means for correcting the pressure in said first chamber when the pressure difference is different from one predetermined set pressure value or a predetermined set pressure range. Various advantageous embodiments of the apparatus result from the subclaims of apparatus and also from the advantageous embodiments of the method previously stated, as well as from the following description which forms an integral part of the present invention.
On comprend ainsi que l'invention permet de résoudre l'ensemble des problèmes techniques précédemment énoncés d'une manière fiable, sûre, facile à mettre en oeuvre, économique et utilisable à l'échelle industrielle et médicale. En outre, l'invention fournit une solution permettant avantageusement d'intégrer les divers moyens ou dispositifs de l'invention dans un système de régulation en pression performant dans une épaisseur limitée, en permettant ainsi de limiter à son tour l'encombrement global de l'appareil de support.It is thus understood that the invention makes it possible to solve all the technical problems previously stated in a reliable, safe, easy to implement, economical and usable on an industrial and medical scale. In addition, the invention provides a solution advantageously making it possible to integrate the various means or devices of the invention in a pressure regulation system performing in a limited thickness, thereby making it possible in turn to limit the overall size of the support device.
D'autres buts, caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront clairement à la lumière de la description explicative qui va suivre faite en référence à un mode de réalisation actuellement préféré de l'invention donné simplement à titre d'illustration et qui ne saurait donc en aucune façon limiter la portée de l'invention. Dans le cadre de la présente description et des revendications, la pression est la pression atmosphérique et la température est la temperamre ambiante, sauf indication contraire. Dans les dessins :Other objects, characteristics and advantages of the invention will become clear in the light of the explanatory description which follows, given with reference to a currently preferred embodiment of the invention given simply by way of illustration and which therefore cannot in any way limit the scope of the invention. In the context of the present description and of the claims, the pressure is atmospheric pressure and the temperature is the ambient temperamre, unless otherwise indicated. In the drawings:
- La figure 1 représente schématiquement un mode de réalisation actuellement préféré d'un appareil de support selon la présente invention, comprenant un dispositif de support à chambre unique ;- Figure 1 schematically shows a currently preferred embodiment of a support apparatus according to the present invention, comprising a support device with a single chamber;
- la figure 2 représente une vue de détail de dessus du capteur et du système électronique comprenant des moyens de détection et de comparaison de pression associés, selon une ligne de trace II-II de la figure 1 ; - la figure 3 représente une vue schématique des moyens 30 de commande de l'appareil ;- Figure 2 shows a detailed top view of the sensor and the electronic system comprising associated pressure detection and comparison means, along a trace line II-II of Figure 1; - Figure 3 shows a schematic view of the control means 30 of the device;
- la figure 4 représente le circuit électronique de l'appareil de régulation dynamique et sensiblement automatique ou automatique de la pression dans le dispositif de support mettant en oeuvre les fonctions définies à la figure 3 ; - la figure 5 représente une courbe de réaction en pression séparée du matelas constituant ici le dispositif de support 12, Pi, en ordonnées, en unité de pouce d'eau équivalente à 2,54 bars, en fonction de la charge appliquée directement au centre du capteur de pression 50 exprimée en kilogramme, rapportée en abscisse, le capteur 50 étant physiquement désacouplé du matelas 12 ;- Figure 4 shows the electronic circuit of the dynamic and substantially automatic or automatic pressure regulation device in the support device implementing the functions defined in Figure 3; - Figure 5 shows a pressure reaction curve separate from the mattress constituting here the support device 12, Pi, on the ordinate, in inch units of water equivalent to 2.54 bars, as a function of the load applied directly to the center the pressure sensor 50 expressed in kilograms, reported on the abscissa, the sensor 50 being physically uncoupled from the mattress 12;
- la figure 6 représente une courbe analogue à la figure 5, du capteur 50 ayant une hauteur initiale à 30 mm et gonflé à une pression initiale de 1,0 pouce H2O = 2,54 mbars, en fonction de la charge en kilogramme exprimée en abscisse, appliquée directement au centre du capteur 50 ; - la figure 7 est une courbe de pression analogue à celle des figures 5 et 6 mais représentant en ordonnée les valeurs de pression Pi du matelas 12 obtenues à la figure 4 en fonction des valeurs de pression P2 du capteur 50 obtenues à la figure 5, en abscisse, avec pour paramètre la charge appliquée sur le capteur 50, soit P, = f (P2) ; - la figure 8 représente la valeur de pression dynamique Pi ou P2 de réponse respectivement du matelas 12 ou du capteur 50, exprimée en ordonnée en pouce d'eau équivalente à 2,54 mbars, en fonction de la charge réelle appliquée sur le matelas formant le dispositif de support 12, telle qu'ici un patient H appliquant par le poids de son corps une charge exprimée en kilogramme et en abscisse avec un premier point de mesure à une pression initiale de 1,4 pouces de H2O = 1,4 x 2,54 mbars ; et - la figure 9 représente des courbes de réponse obtenues au fonctionnement réel pour différents angles de la partie relève-dos d'un lit articulé à- Figure 6 shows a curve similar to Figure 5, of the sensor 50 having an initial height of 30 mm and inflated to an initial pressure of 1.0 inch H 2 O = 2.54 mbar, depending on the load in kilograms expressed on the abscissa, applied directly to the center of the sensor 50; - Figure 7 is a pressure curve similar to that of Figures 5 and 6 but showing on the ordinate the pressure values Pi of the mattress 12 obtained in Figure 4 as a function of the pressure values P 2 of the sensor 50 obtained in Figure 5 , on the abscissa, with the load applied to the sensor 50 as a parameter, ie P, = f (P 2 ); - Figure 8 represents the dynamic pressure value Pi or P 2 of response respectively of the mattress 12 or the sensor 50, expressed on the ordinate in inch of water equivalent to 2.54 mbar, according to the actual load applied to the mattress forming the support device 12, such as here a patient H applying by the weight of his body a load expressed in kilograms and on the abscissa with a first measurement point at an initial pressure of 1.4 inches of H 2 O = 1 , 4 x 2.54 mbar; and FIG. 9 represents response curves obtained at actual operation for different angles of the back-up part of an articulated bed at
0°, 30°, 45° et 60°, et pour toutes les masses corporelles de 50 à 100 kg, avec des pressions d'interface Pi dans la chambre 14 du matelas dont les valeurs montrent l'effet de la régulation dans le domaine considéré.0 °, 30 °, 45 ° and 60 °, and for all body masses from 50 to 100 kg, with interface pressures Pi in chamber 14 of the mattress whose values show the effect of regulation in the field considered.
En référence à la figure 1, un appareil de support selon la présente invention est représenté par le numéro de référence général 10. Cet appareil de support permet de supporter un élément à supporter, en particulier, comme représenté le corps d'un patient tel qu'un être humain H. Cet appareil 10 comprend un dispositif de support proprement dit 12 comprenant au moins une chambre fermée ou à échappement contrôlé 14, souple, gonflable, pouvant par exemple être composée d'une multiplicité de boudins gonflables communiquant entre eux, ladite chambre 14 étant gonflable sous une pression Pi de gonflage. Au début du fonctionnement, cette chambre 14 n'est pas nécessairement gonflée mais il est plus pratique de débuter avec une pression initiale par exemple voisine de celle de la deuxième chambre 51 décrite ci-après. Cette chambre 14 présente une face supérieure 15 servant de support de l'élément à supporter H, une face inférieure 16 qui peut, par exemple, ici reposer sur un élément formant base représenté par le numéro de référence général 40 qui, lui- même, peut reposer directement ou indirectement sur un sommier ici non représenté. L'ensemble dispositif 12 - élément de base 40 peut être inclus dans une housse 1 1.With reference to FIG. 1, a support device according to the present invention is represented by the general reference number 10. This support device makes it possible to support an element to be supported, in particular, as represented the body of a patient such as 'a human being H. This apparatus 10 comprises a support device proper 12 comprising at least one closed chamber or with controlled exhaust 14, flexible, inflatable, which can for example be composed of a multiplicity of inflatable tubes communicating with each other, said chamber 14 being inflatable under an inflation pressure Pi. At the start of operation, this chamber 14 is not necessarily inflated, but it is more practical to start with an initial pressure, for example close to that of the second chamber 51 described below. This chamber 14 has an upper face 15 serving as a support for the element to be supported H, a lower face 16 which can, for example, here rest on a base element represented by the general reference number 40 which, itself, may rest directly or indirectly on a base not shown here. The device 12 - base element 40 assembly can be included in a cover 1 1.
L'appareil comprend également des moyens 30 de commande de moyens 20 de correction dits d'asservissement de la pression de remplissage Pi de la chambre 14 par des moyens de pompage 20, comprenant des moyens de remplissage proprement dit 21 tel qu'un compresseur, à l'aide d'un fluide de remplissage de la chambre 14, en particulier l'air, des moyens d'évacuation 22 tels qu'une vanne de fuite contrôlée, connectés à la chambre 14 par une conduite appropriée 23. Des moyens 31 de mesure de pression (voir figure 3), notamment de la pression Pi dans la première chambre 14 sont également prévus, connectés à la première chambre 14 par un conduit approprié 32. Ces moyens 31 sont physiquement incorporés aux moyens 30.The apparatus also includes means 30 for controlling means 20 of so-called correction control of the filling pressure Pi of the chamber 14 by pumping means 20, comprising filling means proper 21 such as a compressor, using a fluid for filling the chamber 14, in particular air, evacuation means 22 such as a controlled leak valve, connected to the chamber 14 by an appropriate pipe 23. Means 31 pressure measurement (see FIG. 3), in particular of the pressure Pi in the first chamber 14 are also provided, connected to the first chamber 14 by a suitable conduit 32. These means 31 are physically incorporated into the means 30.
Dans le cadre de la présente invention, l'appareil 10 comprend aussi un capteur 50 physique de pression comprenant au moins une deuxième chambre 51 gonflable, gonflée à une pression initiale prédéterminée P .Ce capteur 50 est relié par un conduit 34 au moyen de mesure de pression 31 qui comprend aussi de manière intégrée des moyens 38 de comparaison de pression entre la pression Pi régnant dans la première chambre 14 du dispositif de support 12 et la pression P2 régnant dans la deuxième chambre 51 du capteur 50. Dans le cadre de l'invention, ce capteur physique de pression 50 est disposé relativement au dispositif de support 12 de manière à avoir sa pression P2(t) régnant dans la chambre 51 influencée par un changement de pression Pj(t) régnant dans la première chambre 14 du dispositif de support 12. Autrement dit, le capteur 50, tout en restant indépendant, donne une valeur de pression P2(t) restituant en permanence une image cohérente de la pression Pι(t) régnant dans la première chambre 14 du dispositif de support 12.In the context of the present invention, the apparatus 10 also comprises a physical pressure sensor 50 comprising at least a second inflatable chamber 51, inflated to a predetermined initial pressure P. This sensor 50 is connected by a conduit 34 to the pressure measuring means 31 which also includes, in an integrated manner, means 38 for comparing the pressure between the pressure Pi prevailing in the first chamber 14 of the support device 12 and the pressure P 2 prevailing in the second chamber 51 of the sensor 50. In the context of the invention, this physical pressure sensor 50 is disposed relative to the support device 12 so as to have its pressure P 2 (t) prevailing in the chamber 51 influenced by a change in pressure Pj ( t) prevailing in the first chamber 14 of the support device 12. In other words, the sensor 50, while remaining independent, gives a pressure value P 2 (t) permanently reproducing a coherent image of the pressure Pι (t) prevailing in the first chamber 14 of the support device 12.
Selon une caractéristique avantageuse de l'invention, ce capteur 50 comprend une poche 52 fermée, souple, définissant la chambre 51 dont le volume, une fois ladite chambre 51 remplie d'un fluide inerte tel que l'eau distillée et traitée, l'huile de silicone ou tout autre fluide approprié, soit sensiblement constant de sorte que le capteur agisse comme un vrai transducteur mécanique de pression. On notera que dans le cadre de l'invention, la chambre 14 dispose de ses moyens propres de remplissage 21 et d'évacuation 22.According to an advantageous characteristic of the invention, this sensor 50 comprises a closed, flexible pocket 52 defining the chamber 51 whose volume, once said chamber 51 is filled with an inert fluid such as distilled and treated water, the silicone oil or any other suitable fluid, is substantially constant so that the sensor acts like a real mechanical pressure transducer. It will be noted that in the context of the invention, the chamber 14 has its own filling 21 and evacuation 22 means.
On comprend des figures 3 et 4 que les moyens de mesure de pression 31, qui réalisent avantageusement une mesure différentielle des pressions Pι(t) et P (t) s'exerçant respectivement dans la chambre 14 de la chambre 51, font partie intégrante des moyens de commande 30, convertissant constamment en signal électrique et par des moyens appropriés représentés à la figure 3, la valeur différentielle de pression Pι(t) - P (t) et délivrant une tension électrique, par l'intermédiaire des moyens 38 comprenant aussi un circuit de mise en forme (voir figure 4), au circuit de commande 44 permettant la mise en oeuvre des logiques de commande séparées 45a, 45b comprises dans le circuit de commande effectif 46 par une logique 46a, 46b respectivement les moyens de remplissage 21 et les moyens d'évacuation 22 de la chambre 14 par les conduits 47, 48, en fonction de l'information en pression P2(t) restituée par la chambre 51 du capteur 50, réalisant ainsi l'équilibre dynamique et automatique ou sensiblement automatique des pressions selon le but recherché.It is understood from FIGS. 3 and 4 that the pressure measurement means 31, which advantageously carry out a differential measurement of the pressures Pι (t) and P (t) exerted respectively in the chamber 14 of the chamber 51, are an integral part of the control means 30, constantly converting into an electrical signal and by appropriate means shown in FIG. 3, the pressure differential value Pι (t) - P (t) and delivering an electrical voltage, by means of means 38 also comprising a shaping circuit (see FIG. 4), at the control circuit 44 allowing the implementation of the separate control logic 45a, 45b included in the actual control circuit 46 by a logic 46a, 46b respectively the filling means 21 and the evacuation means 22 from the chamber 14 via the conduits 47, 48, as a function of the pressure information P 2 (t) restored by the chamber 51 of the sensor 50, thus achieving dynamic balance and automatic or substantially automatic pressure depending on the desired goal.
L'ensemble des circuits constituant les moyens 30 de commande des moyens 20 de remplissage/évacuation du fluide de la chambre 14 est clairement compréhensible à l'homme de l'art à partir du circuit électronique de la figure 3 qui est incorporé ici par référence entièrement dans la description et fait partie intégrante de la présente invention. Les moyens 31 de mesure de la pression Pi, P , de comparaison et de délivrance d'une valeur de tension de sortie Vs sont bien connus à l'homme de l'art et disponibles dans le commerce.All the circuits constituting the means 30 for controlling the means 20 for filling / evacuating the fluid from the chamber 14 are clearly understandable to those skilled in the art from the electronic circuit of FIG. 3 which is incorporated here by reference fully in description and is part integral of the present invention. The means 31 for measuring the pressure Pi, P, for comparing and for delivering an output voltage value V s are well known to those skilled in the art and available commercially.
On comprend ainsi que le capteur 50 se décompose en la poche 52 définissant la chambre 51 de prise de pression P2(t) d'un circuit électronique 30 convertissant constamment en signal électrique la différence de pression Pι(t)- P2(t) entre la chambre 14 et la chambre 52 de manière à faire réguler automatiquement la pression dans la chambre 14 par commande des moyens 20 de remplissage (21) et d'évacuation (22) de fluide. II va de soit que l'on peut parfaitement envisager, dans le cas d'une autre réalisation, un circuit électronique 30 captant séparément les pressions Pi et P2 respectivement dans la première chambre 14 et la deuxième chambre 51, convertissant ces pressions en signaux électriques puis comparant ces signaux pour enfin commander automatiquement les moyens 20 de remplissage et d'évacuation de fluide de la chambre 14.It is thus understood that the sensor 50 is broken down into the pocket 52 defining the pressure take-off chamber 51 P 2 (t) of an electronic circuit 30 constantly converting the pressure difference Pι (t) - P 2 (t) into an electrical signal ) between the chamber 14 and the chamber 52 so as to automatically regulate the pressure in the chamber 14 by controlling the means 20 for filling (21) and evacuating (22) fluid. It goes without saying that it is perfectly possible to envisage, in the case of another embodiment, an electronic circuit 30 separately capturing the pressures Pi and P 2 respectively in the first chamber 14 and the second chamber 51, converting these pressures into signals electric then comparing these signals to finally automatically control the means 20 for filling and evacuating fluid from chamber 14.
Dans la pratique médicale, ce type de capteur 50 de pression associé au dispositif de support 12 et coopérant avec un système d'alarme peut également être utilisé en surveillance du patient, pour détecter la sortie ou la chute éventuelle de ce patient. D'autre part, au repos, il est actuellement préféré que la deuxième chambre 51 du capteur physique de pression 50 soit remplie à une pression P2 voisine de, ou égale à, la pression atmosphérique de manière à : a) assurer, compte tenu du volume constant ou essentiellement constant de la chambre 51, la linéarité de la réponse du capteur 50 physique de pression dans la plage de mesure de pression considérée, b) ne pas compromettre d'entrée de jeu, par une pression P2 importante dans la chambre 51, le confort du patient et la performance du dispositif de support 12 par une surface sensiblement dure, c) établir une référence pour le système, facilement reproductible et maîtrisable et constituant le zéro du système de mesure, d) augmenter au maximum l'amplitude de la réponse du capteur 50 et donc sa résolution.In medical practice, this type of pressure sensor 50 associated with the support device 12 and cooperating with an alarm system can also be used to monitor the patient, to detect the exit or possible fall of this patient. On the other hand, at rest, it is currently preferred that the second chamber 51 of the physical pressure sensor 50 be filled with a pressure P 2 close to, or equal to, atmospheric pressure so as to: a) ensure, taking into account of the constant or essentially constant volume of the chamber 51, the linearity of the response of the physical pressure sensor 50 in the pressure measurement range considered, b) does not compromise from the outset, by a significant pressure P 2 in the chamber 51, patient comfort and the performance of the support device 12 by a substantially hard surface, c) establishing a reference for the system, easily reproducible and controllable and constituting the zero of the measurement system, d) maximizing the amplitude of the response of the sensor 50 and therefore its resolution.
Bien évidemment, un capteur 50 dont la pression initiale P2 dans la chambre 51 serait fixée à une valeur de pression prédéterminée quelconque, différente de la pression atmosphérique constitue un autre type de réalisation parfaitement utilisable, notamment dans d'autres applications. On comprend aussi que l'appareil selon l'invention se comporte comme un système logique à trois états : a) le repos à une pression donnée Pi dans la première chambre 14 du dispositif de support 12, b) le gonflage de la chambre 14, ou c) le dégonflage de la chambre 14.Obviously, a sensor 50 whose initial pressure P 2 in the chamber 51 would be fixed at any predetermined pressure value, different from atmospheric pressure constitutes another type of embodiment perfectly usable, in particular in other applications. It is also understood that the apparatus according to the invention behaves like a logic system with three states: a) rest at a given pressure Pi in the first chamber 14 of the support device 12, b) inflation of the chamber 14, or c) deflating the chamber 14.
Au repos, la pression Pi dans la première chambre 14 est égale à la pression P2 dans la deuxième chambre 51 du capteur 50.At rest, the pressure Pi in the first chamber 14 is equal to the pressure P 2 in the second chamber 51 of the sensor 50.
Ceci est bien entendu applicable dans le cas de la présente réalisation. En effet, d'autres réalisations peuvent présenter au repos une différence des pressions Pi et P2.This is of course applicable in the case of the present embodiment. Indeed, other embodiments may present at rest a difference in pressures Pi and P 2 .
Quand, à un instant, donné (t), une pression Pι(t) est réalisée dans la première chambre 14, par exemple par l'application d'un corps d'un être humain H sur la face supérieure 15 de la chambre 14 ou son retrait, cette pression est transmise à la poche 52 définissant la deuxième chambre 51 qui réagit avec une pression P2(t).When, at a given instant (t), a pressure Pι (t) is produced in the first chamber 14, for example by applying a body of a human being H to the upper face 15 of the chamber 14 or its removal, this pressure is transmitted to the pocket 52 defining the second chamber 51 which reacts with a pressure P 2 (t).
La pression Pι(t) est comparée à la pression P2(t). a) Si la différence en pression Pι(t)-P2(t) est inférieure à une limite moins epsilon déterminée a priori, les moyens de remplissage 21, tels qu'un compresseur, sont actionnés de façon à rétablir dans les limites prévues l'équilibre en pression par gonflage de la chambre ; b) si la différence en pression P1(t)-P2(t) est supérieure à une limite plus epsilon déterminée a priori, les moyens d'évacuation 22, tels qu'une vanne de fuite, sont actionnés de façon à rétablir dans la limite prévue l'équilibre en pression par dégonflage de la chambre 14 ; c) si la différence en pression Pι(t)-P2(t) est comprise entre -epsilon et +epsilon, la limite déterminée a priori, rien ne se passe, les pressions Pi et P2 sont considérées comme étant au voisinage l'une de l'autre.The pressure Pι (t) is compared to the pressure P 2 (t). a) If the difference in pressure Pι (t) -P 2 (t) is less than a limit minus epsilon determined a priori, the filling means 21, such as a compressor, are actuated so as to restore within the limits provided pressure balance by inflation of the chamber; b) if the difference in pressure P 1 (t) -P 2 (t) is greater than a limit plus epsilon determined a priori, the discharge means 22, such as a leak valve, are actuated so as to restore within the limit provided the pressure balance by deflating the chamber 14; c) if the difference in pressure Pι (t) -P 2 (t) is between -epsilon and + epsilon, the limit determined a priori, nothing happens, the pressures Pi and P 2 are considered to be in the vicinity l one of the other.
Les moyens de remplissage 21 ou d'évacuation 22 sont mis en oeuvre pendant une certaine durée Δt jusqu'à ce que l'équilibre instantané en pression soit rétabli dans les limites prédéterminées, c'est-à-dire jusqu'à ce que l'on ait P](t+Δt) compris entre P2(t+Δt) - epsilon et P2(t+Δt) + epsilon.The filling 21 or discharge 22 means are used for a certain duration Δt until the instantaneous pressure balance is restored within the predetermined limits, that is to say until l 'we have P] (t + Δt) between P 2 (t + Δt) - epsilon and P 2 (t + Δt) + epsilon.
L'hystérésis du système permet la régulation entre les limites inférieure et supérieure de la zone de consigne et évite les phénomènes d'oscillations intempestifs. 10The hysteresis of the system allows regulation between the lower and upper limits of the setpoint area and avoids nuisance oscillation phenomena. 10
Ainsi, le capteur 50 associé au dispositif 30 de mesure électronique fournit un signal électrique proportionnel à la différence en pression Pι(t)-P2(t) entre respectivement la première chambre 14 du dispositif de support 12 et la deuxième chambre 51 du capteur 50, résultant de l'enfoncement du corps ici d'un être humain H dans la chambre 14.Thus, the sensor 50 associated with the electronic measurement device 30 provides an electrical signal proportional to the pressure difference Pι (t) -P 2 (t) between the first chamber 14 of the support device 12 and the second chamber 51 of the sensor respectively. 50, resulting from the insertion of the body here of a human being H into the chamber 14.
Ce signal électrique représente le point de consigne instantané du système en équilibre dynamique et autour duquel s'effectue la régulation en pression dans la chambre 14, corrigée automatiquement et en temps réel de manière à assurer l'équilibre des pressions entre la deuxième chambre 51 de la poche 52 du capteur 50 et la première chambre 14 du dispositif de support proprement dit 12.This electrical signal represents the instantaneous set point of the system in dynamic equilibrium and around which the pressure regulation in the chamber 14 is effected, corrected automatically and in real time so as to ensure the pressure balance between the second chamber 51 of the pocket 52 of the sensor 50 and the first chamber 14 of the support device proper 12.
A chaque point de consigne correspond une pression de régulation donnée et donc une position du corps dans la chambre 14 en fonction de son poids et de ses caractéristiques morphologiques propres. La régulation en pression se fait par les moyens de remplissage et d'évacuation de fluide, notamment en tout ou rien, par l'intermédiaire du compresseur 21 et de la vanne de fuite contrôlée 22.Each set point corresponds to a given regulation pressure and therefore a position of the body in the chamber 14 according to its weight and its own morphological characteristics. The pressure is regulated by the means for filling and evacuating fluid, in particular all or nothing, by means of the compressor 21 and the controlled leak valve 22.
La réponse du système est aussi rapide que peuvent l'être le capteur 50 et la centrale de commande 30 électronique couplée aux moyens 20 de remplissage (21) et d'évacuation (22) en fluide.The response of the system is as fast as can be the sensor 50 and the electronic control unit 30 coupled to the means 20 for filling (21) and evacuating (22) with fluid.
On comprend, en conclusion, que l'on obtient bien un système de régulation automatique des pressions adapté au corps supporté par le dispositif de support 12, en particulier le corps d'un patient H.It is understood, in conclusion, that there is indeed obtained an automatic pressure regulation system adapted to the body supported by the support device 12, in particular the body of a patient H.
En ce qui concerne la centrale électronique de commande de la figure 4, son circuit fait partie de l'invention, est donc intégré complètement dans la description, et fonctionne de la manière suivante :With regard to the electronic control unit of FIG. 4, its circuit is part of the invention, is therefore completely integrated in the description, and operates as follows:
a) Etage de mesure différentielle de pression (référence 38, figures 3 et 4) Ici, comme cela est bien compréhensible à un homme de l'art, le circuit est basé sur l'utilisation d'un capteur différentiel de pression recevant à un instant t d'une part la pression de la chambre 14 Pι(t) et d'autre part la pression P2(t) de la chambre 51. Le signal apparaissant en A représente après amplification une tension instantanée proportionnelle à la différence de pression Pι(t)-P (t). 11a) Differential pressure measurement stage (reference 38, FIGS. 3 and 4) Here, as is understandable to a person skilled in the art, the circuit is based on the use of a differential pressure sensor receiving at a instant t on the one hand the pressure of the chamber 14 Pι (t) and on the other hand the pressure P 2 (t) of the chamber 51. The signal appearing at A represents after amplification an instantaneous voltage proportional to the pressure difference Pι (t) -P (t). 11
b) Etage de tension 10 V de référence (référence 62, figures 3 et 4)b) Reference 10 V voltage stage (reference 62, Figures 3 and 4)
La tension de référence 10 V est utilisée pour les comparateurs de commande et d'alarme. Elle sert aussi pour alimenter le capteur électrique de pression 31 en pression dénommé U3.The 10 V reference voltage is used for control and alarm comparators. It also serves to supply the electric pressure sensor 31 with pressure called U3.
c) Etage de réglage de mise en route (référence 64, figures 3 et 4)c) Start-up adjustment stage (reference 64, figures 3 and 4)
Un réglage initial permet de décaler le signal du point A afin de rattraper les éventuelles dispersions dues au capteur 50 ou aux composants électroniques. Le signal obtenu au point B est donc celui du point A augmenté du signal de réglage initial.An initial adjustment makes it possible to shift the signal from point A in order to compensate for any dispersions due to the sensor 50 or to the electronic components. The signal obtained at point B is therefore that of point A increased by the initial setting signal.
Le signal électrique obtenu au point B est donc celui du point A augmenté du signal de mise en route.The electrical signal obtained at point B is therefore that of point A increased by the start-up signal.
d) Comparateurs de commande (référence 44, figures 3 et 4) Les comparateurs permettent de séparer la commande du compresseurd) Control comparators (reference 44, Figures 3 and 4) The comparators allow the compressor control to be separated
21 de celle de la vanne de fuite 22.21 from that of the leak valve 22.
Ils réalisent aussi une logique à trois états stables avec un hystérésis de +1 pouce de pression d'eau, correspondant à 1,9- mm Hg, c'est-à-dire de pression en mercure exprimée en millimètre, ou équivalente à 2,54 mbars.They also realize a logic with three stable states with a hysteresis of +1 inch of water pressure, corresponding to 1.9- mm Hg, that is to say of mercury pressure expressed in millimeters, or equivalent to 2 , 54 mbar.
i) Si la différence de pression Pι(t)-P2(t) est en dessous de -1 pouce H2O, donc si la pression dans la chambre 14 est trop faible par rapport à celle de la deuxième chambre 51 du capteur 50, le point D passe à l'état haut et le compresseur 21 est commandé.i) If the pressure difference Pι (t) -P 2 (t) is below -1 inch H 2 O, therefore if the pressure in chamber 14 is too low compared to that of the second chamber 51 of the sensor 50, point D goes high and the compressor 21 is controlled.
ii) Si la différence de pression Pι(t)-P2(t) est en dessus de +1 pouce H2O, donc si la pression dans la chambre 14 est trop élevée par rapport à celle du capteur 50, le point C passe à l'état haut et la fuite 22 est commandée.ii) If the pressure difference Pι (t) -P 2 (t) is above +1 inch H 2 O, therefore if the pressure in chamber 14 is too high compared to that of sensor 50, point C goes high and leak 22 is controlled.
iii) Si la différence de pression Pι(t)-P2(t) est comprise entre -1 pouceiii) If the pressure difference Pι (t) -P 2 (t) is between -1 inch
H2O et +1 pouce H2O, donc si la pression dans la chambre 14 est relativement proche de celle du capteur 50, le point C et le point D passent à l'état bas, ni la vanne de fuite 22, ni le compresseur 21 ne sont commandés. 12H 2 O and +1 inch H 2 O, so if the pressure in chamber 14 is relatively close to that of sensor 50, point C and point D go low, neither the leak valve 22, nor the compressor 21 is not controlled. 12
e) Logiques du compresseur 21 et logique de la vanne de fuite 22 (références 46a, 46b, figures 3 et 4)e) Compressor 21 logic and leak valve 22 logic (references 46a, 46b, Figures 3 and 4)
Elles permettent de verrouiller les commandes de la vanne de fuite 22 et du compresseur 21 sans oscillation et d'obtenir des commandes vraiment franches.They make it possible to lock the controls of the leak valve 22 and of the compressor 21 without oscillation and to obtain truly frank controls.
f) Alarme pression (référence 66, figures 3 et 4)f) Pressure alarm (reference 66, figures 3 and 4)
Une alarme pression peut être déclenchée lorsque la différence de pression Pι(t)-P2(t) est très en dehors de la plage de régulation, la valeur d'alarme est par exemple de + 2 pouces H O.A pressure alarm can be triggered when the pressure difference Pι (t) -P 2 (t) is very outside the regulation range, the alarm value is for example + 2 inches H O.
g) Temporisation d'alarme (référence 68, figures 3 et 4)g) Alarm delay (reference 68, figures 3 and 4)
Le signal d'alarme présent au point E est temporisé avant d'activer l'alarme proprement dite, ceci afin de ne pas prendre en compte les variations rapides de pression comme, par exemple, celles résultant des mouvements du patient.The alarm signal present at point E is timed before activating the actual alarm, so as not to take into account rapid pressure variations such as, for example, those resulting from the patient's movements.
Diagramme de réponse des éléments séparés Pj_ = f (P?)Response diagram of the separate elements Pj_ = f (P?)
Ce diagramme de réponse des éléments font l'objet des courbes graphiques des figures 5 à 8.This element response diagram is the subject of the graphical curves of FIGS. 5 to 8.
Avec le mode de réalisation actuellement préféré et représenté aux figures 1 à 4, on obtient la courbe expérimentale de réaction du dispositif de support 12, ici un matelas, sous la forme d'un graphique où la pression Pi dans le matelas est fonction de la charge en kilogramme appliquée centrée sur le capteur 50, le capteur 50 étant désaccouplé du matelas 12, la pression initiale étant, pour des raisons de commodité, fixée à 1,4 pouces H2O.With the currently preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the experimental reaction curve of the support device 12, here a mattress, is obtained in the form of a graph where the pressure Pi in the mattress is a function of the load in kilograms applied centered on the sensor 50, the sensor 50 being uncoupled from the mattress 12, the initial pressure being, for reasons of convenience, fixed at 1.4 inches H 2 O.
La courbe obtenue permet de constater que la réponse en pression du matelas 12 est linéaire dans le domaine considéré.The curve obtained shows that the pressure response of the mattress 12 is linear in the field considered.
De même, on observe à partir de la figure 6 que la courbe graphique de réponse en pression du capteur 50, P , en fonction de la charge exprimée en kilogramme appliquée centrée sur le capteur ayant une hauteur de 30 mm et une pression initiale de 1,0 pouce H O permet de constater que la fonction est également linéaire dans le domaine considéré.Similarly, it can be seen from FIG. 6 that the graphical curve of pressure response of the sensor 50, P, as a function of the load expressed in kilograms applied centered on the sensor having a height of 30 mm and an initial pressure of 1 .0 inch HO shows that the function is also linear in the domain considered.
En référence à la figure 7, on a représenté la courbe graphique des pressions respectivement Pi du matelas 12, en fonction de la pression P2 dans le capteur 50, à savoir Pi = f (P2), obtenue à partir des valeurs de pression et 13Referring to Figure 7, there is shown the graphical curve of the pressures Pi respectively of the mattress 12, as a function of the pressure P 2 in the sensor 50, namely Pi = f (P 2 ), obtained from the pressure values and 13
rapportée aux figures 5 et 6 permet de constater que les fonctions sont sensiblement confondues dans le domaine considéré ce qui est facilement démontré dans le domaine considéré par la quasi-linéarité de la fonction de transfert expérimentale Pj = f(P2) qui est du type Pi = kxP où k est un coefficient voisin de 1.reported in FIGS. 5 and 6 shows that the functions are substantially confused in the domain considered, which is easily demonstrated in the domain considered by the quasi-linearity of the experimental transfer function Pj = f (P 2 ) which is of the type Pi = kxP where k is a coefficient close to 1.
Ceci permet de mettre en évidence le fait que, dans le cadre de l'invention, on a bien affaire à un système d'équilibre dynamique des pressions Pi et P2.This makes it possible to highlight the fact that, in the context of the invention, we are indeed dealing with a system of dynamic equilibrium of the pressures Pi and P 2 .
En référence à la figure 8, on a représenté la courbe de réponse expérimentale du système Pi = f(P2).With reference to FIG. 8, the experimental response curve of the system Pi = f (P 2 ) has been represented.
Les courbes obtenues en fonctionnement réel permettent d'observer par rapport aux résultats expérimentaux, l'influence des données morphologiques pour une population donnée représentative des caractéristiques morphologiques de la population à risque ainsi que l'influence des inclinaisons du plan de repos. En référence à la figure 9, on constate que les courbes ont sensiblement même allure, par exemple pour toutes les angulations de la partie relève-dos d'un lit articulé à 0°, 45° et 60°, et pour toutes les masses corporelles ée 50 à 100 kg, avec des pressions d'interface Pi dans la chambre 14 du matelas dont les valeurs montrent l'effet de la régulation dans le domaine considéré. Ainsi, l'invention permet bien de mettre en oeuvre le procédé de régulation dynamique et automatique des pressions d'une manière sûre et fiable, économique, utilisable à l'échelle industrielle et commerciale comme précédemment énoncé.The curves obtained in real operation make it possible to observe, in relation to the experimental results, the influence of the morphological data for a given population representative of the morphological characteristics of the population at risk as well as the influence of the inclinations of the rest plane. With reference to FIG. 9, it can be seen that the curves have substantially the same appearance, for example for all the angles of the back-up part of an articulated bed at 0 °, 45 ° and 60 °, and for all body weights. ée 50 to 100 kg, with interface pressures Pi in chamber 14 of the mattress, the values of which show the effect of regulation in the field under consideration. Thus, the invention makes it possible to implement the process of dynamic and automatic regulation of pressures in a safe and reliable, economical manner, usable on an industrial and commercial scale as previously stated.
Naturellement, l'invention couvre tous les moyens techniques décrits et représentés aux figures, ces figures 1 à 9 faisant partie intégrante de la présente invention. L'invention couvre aussi tous les moyens techniques constituant des équivalents techniques des moyens décrits ainsi que leurs diverses combinaisons. Naturally, the invention covers all the technical means described and represented in the figures, these figures 1 to 9 forming an integral part of the present invention. The invention also covers all the technical means constituting technical equivalents of the means described as well as their various combinations.

Claims

14REVENDICATIONS 14 CLAIMS
1. Procédé de régulation dynamique essentiellement automatique ou automatique de la pression de gonflage d'au moins une première chambre (14) souple, gonflable prévue dans ou constituant un dispositif de support (12), en particulier un matelas, un surmatelas, un fauteuil, un coussin ou un dossier de siège, comprenant une étape de détection de la pression de gonflage à un instant donné, dite Pι(t) de ladite chambre (14), et une étape de correction de cette pression Pι(t), en fonction de caractéristiques de support prédéterminées, caractérisé en ce qu'on prévoit au moins un capteur (50) physique de pression, comprenant au moins une deuxième chambre (51) gonflable, gonflée à une pression initiale prédéterminée P2, en ce qu'on dispose ledit capteur (50) relativement audit dispositif de support (12) de manière à ce que la deuxième chambre (51) du capteur (50) ait sa pression influencée par un changement de pression Pj(t) dans la première chambre (14) du dispositif de support (12) ; en ce qu'on détecte la valeur de pression instantanée à un instant donné dite P2(t) dans la deuxième chambre (51) du capteur (50), en ce qu'on compare la pression mesurée dans la première chambre P](t) avec la pression mesurée dans la deuxième chambre P2(t) et en ce qu'on procède éventuellement à une correction de pression dans la première chambre (14) lorsque l'écart de pression mesuré est supérieur à une valeur de pression de consigne ou une plage de valeur de pression de consigne prédéterminée.1. Method of essentially automatic or automatic dynamic regulation of the inflation pressure of at least one flexible, inflatable first chamber (14) provided in or constituting a support device (12), in particular a mattress, a mattress overlay, an armchair , a cushion or a seat back, comprising a step of detecting the inflation pressure at a given instant, called Pι (t) of said chamber (14), and a step of correcting this pressure Pι (t), function of predetermined support characteristics, characterized in that at least one physical pressure sensor (50) is provided, comprising at least a second inflatable chamber (51), inflated to a predetermined initial pressure P 2 , in that arranges said sensor (50) relative to said support device (12) so that the second chamber (51) of the sensor (50) has its pressure influenced by a pressure change Pj (t) in the first chamber (14) of the disp supportive (12); in that the instantaneous pressure value at a given instant called P 2 (t) in the second chamber (51) of the sensor (50) is detected, in that the pressure measured in the first chamber P] is compared ( t) with the pressure measured in the second chamber P 2 (t) and in that there is optionally a pressure correction in the first chamber (14) when the pressure difference measured is greater than a pressure value of setpoint or a predetermined setpoint pressure range.
2. Procédé selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que le capteur (50) présente au moins une deuxième chambre (51) ayant un volume sensiblement constant.2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensor (50) has at least a second chamber (51) having a substantially constant volume.
3. Procédé selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que la pression initiale P2 de gonflage de la deuxième chambre (51) du capteur (50) est fixée à une valeur prédéterminée et on laisse ensuite librement évoluer cette pression P2(t) en fonction de l'influence de modifications de pression Pι(t) dans la première chambre (14) du dispositif de support (12) ; de préférence, la pression initiale P2(t) de la deuxième chambre (51) du capteur (50) est égale ou sensiblement égale à la pression atmosphérique.3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the initial inflation pressure P 2 of the second chamber (51) of the sensor (50) is fixed at a predetermined value and this pressure P 2 is then allowed to evolve freely ( t) depending on the influence of pressure changes Pι (t) in the first chamber (14) of the support device (12); preferably, the initial pressure P 2 (t) of the second chamber (51) of the sensor (50) is equal to or substantially equal to atmospheric pressure.
4. Procédé selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le capteur (50) comprenant la deuxième chambre (51) est disposé sous le dispositif de support (12) comprenant au moins la première chambre (14). 154. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor (50) comprising the second chamber (51) is arranged under the support device (12) comprising at least the first chamber (14). 15
5. Procédé selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'on corrige la pression Pι(t) dans la première chambre (14) lorsque cette pression Pι(t) s'écarte d'une valeur ou d'une plage de valeur prédéterminée de la pression P2(t) de la deuxième chambre (51) servant de pression de consigne. 5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pressure Pι (t) in the first chamber (14) is corrected when this pressure Pι (t) deviates from a value or from a range of predetermined value of the pressure P 2 (t) of the second chamber (51) serving as the reference pressure.
6. Procédé selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'on réalise une régulation de support d'un patient alité sur un matelas, notamment pour prévenir ou traiter des escarres.6. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a support regulation of a bedridden patient is carried out on a mattress, in particular for preventing or treating bedsores.
7. Appareil de support (10) à régulation dynamique et sensiblement automatique ou automatique de la pression Pi de gonflage d'au moins une première chambre (14) souple, gonflable d'un dispositif de support (12) d'un élément à supporter (H), en particulier le corps d'un patient ; des moyens (31) de mesure de la pression Pι(t) dans ladite première chambre (14) ; et des moyens (30) de commande de moyens (20) de correction de la pression Pι(t) dans ladite première chambre (14) en fonction de caractéristiques de pression prédéterminées, les moyens (20) de correction comprenant des premiers moyens de gonflage (21)/dégonflage (22) de ladite première chambre (14) du dispositif de support (12) à une pression variable, incluant une pression initiale prédéterminée, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend au moins un capteur (50) physique de pression comprenant au moins une deuxième chambre (51) gonflable, gonflée à une pression initiale prédéterminée P , ledit capteur (50) étant disposé de manière à avoir la pression P2(t) de sa deuxième chambre (51) influencée par un changement de pression Pi dans la première chambre (14) ; des moyens (38) de comparaison de la pression Pi dans la première chambre (14) avec la pression P2 dans la deuxième chambre (51), lesdits moyens de commande (30) commandant éventuellement les moyens (20) de correction de la pression Pi dans la première chambre (14) lorsque l'écart de pression Pι-P est différent d'une valeur de pression de consigne prédéterminée ou d'une plage de valeur de pression de consigne prédéterminée.7. Support apparatus (10) with dynamic and substantially automatic or automatic regulation of the inflation pressure Pi of at least one flexible first chamber (14), inflatable with a support device (12) of an element to be supported (H), in particular the body of a patient; means (31) for measuring the pressure Pι (t) in said first chamber (14); and means (30) for controlling means (20) for correcting the pressure Pι (t) in said first chamber (14) as a function of predetermined pressure characteristics, the means (20) for correcting comprising first inflation means (21) / deflation (22) of said first chamber (14) of the support device (12) at a variable pressure, including a predetermined initial pressure, characterized in that it comprises at least one physical pressure sensor (50) comprising at least a second inflatable chamber (51), inflated to a predetermined initial pressure P, said sensor (50) being arranged so as to have the pressure P 2 (t) of its second chamber (51) influenced by a change in pressure Pi in the first chamber (14); means (38) for comparing the pressure Pi in the first chamber (14) with the pressure P 2 in the second chamber (51), said control means (30) possibly controlling the means (20) for correcting the pressure Pi in the first chamber (14) when the pressure difference Pι-P is different from a predetermined setpoint pressure value or from a predetermined setpoint pressure value range.
8. Appareil selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que le capteur (50) présente au moins une deuxième chambre (51) ayant un volume sensiblement constant.8. Apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the sensor (50) has at least a second chamber (51) having a substantially constant volume.
9. Appareil selon la revendication 7 ou 8, caractérisé en ce que la pression initiale P de gonflage de la deuxième chambre (51) du capteur (50) est fixée à une valeur prédéterminée et cette pression évolue ensuite librement en fonction de l'influence de modifications de pression Pi dans la première chambre (14) du dispositif de support (12), de préférence, la pression initiale P2 de la 169. Apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the initial inflation pressure P of the second chamber (51) of the sensor (50) is fixed at a predetermined value and this pressure then changes freely as a function of the influence pressure changes Pi in the first chamber (14) of the support device (12), preferably the initial pressure P 2 of the 16
deuxième chambre (51) du capteur (50) est égale ou sensiblement égale à la pression atmosphérique.second chamber (51) of the sensor (50) is equal to or substantially equal to atmospheric pressure.
10. Appareil selon l'une des revendications 7 à 9, caractérisé en ce que le capteur (50) comprenant la deuxième chambre (51) précitée est disposé sous le dispositif de support (12) comprenant au moins la première chambre (14).10. Apparatus according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the sensor (50) comprising the second chamber (51) mentioned above is arranged under the support device (12) comprising at least the first chamber (14).
11. Appareil selon l'une des revendications 7 à 10, caractérisé en ce que les moyens (20) de correction corrigent la pression Pj(t) dans la première chambre (14) lorsque cette pression Pι(t) s'écarte d'une valeur ou d'une plage de valeur prédéterminée de la pression P2(t) de la deuxième chambre (51 ) servant de pression de consigne.11. Apparatus according to one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that the correction means (20) correct the pressure Pj (t) in the first chamber (14) when this pressure Pι (t) deviates from a value or a predetermined value range of the pressure P 2 (t) of the second chamber (51) serving as the reference pressure.
12. Capteur (50) physique de pression comme moyen nécessaire pour la mise en oeuvre du procédé selon l'une des revendications 1 à 6 ou pour la fabrication de l'appareil selon l'une des revendications 7 à 11, caractérisé en ce qu'il est tel que défini à l'une quelconque des revendications 7 à 1 1 , pris seul ou combiné avec les moyens (30) de comparaison et/ou de commande des moyens (20) de correction de pression. 12. Physical pressure sensor (50) as a means necessary for the implementation of the method according to one of claims 1 to 6 or for the manufacture of the apparatus according to one of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that 'It is as defined in any one of claims 7 to 1 1, taken alone or combined with the means (30) for comparison and / or control of the means (20) of pressure correction.
EP99902624A 1998-02-09 1999-02-09 Method and apparatus for supporting an object requiring support, in particular a patient's body with integrated system for dynamic and automatic pressure equalisation Expired - Lifetime EP1056372B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9801466A FR2774573B1 (en) 1998-02-09 1998-02-09 METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SUPPORTING A SUPPORTING ELEMENT, IN PARTICULAR THE BODY OF A PATIENT, WITH AN INTEGRATED DYNAMIC AND AUTOMATIC PRESSURE BALANCE SYSTEM
FR9801466 1998-02-09
PCT/FR1999/000277 WO1999039613A1 (en) 1998-02-09 1999-02-09 Method and apparatus for supporting an object requiring support, in particular a patient's body with integrated system for dynamic and automatic pressure equalisation

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EP1056372A1 true EP1056372A1 (en) 2000-12-06
EP1056372B1 EP1056372B1 (en) 2003-05-02

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US (1) US6094762A (en)
EP (1) EP1056372B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2002501799A (en)
AT (1) ATE238724T1 (en)
AU (1) AU2285199A (en)
BR (1) BR9907786A (en)
CA (1) CA2319594A1 (en)
DE (1) DE69907416T2 (en)
FR (1) FR2774573B1 (en)
WO (1) WO1999039613A1 (en)

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BR9907786A (en) 2000-10-17
CA2319594A1 (en) 1999-08-12
EP1056372B1 (en) 2003-05-02
WO1999039613A1 (en) 1999-08-12
FR2774573A1 (en) 1999-08-13
JP2002501799A (en) 2002-01-22
DE69907416D1 (en) 2003-06-05
AU2285199A (en) 1999-08-23
DE69907416T2 (en) 2004-01-08
US6094762A (en) 2000-08-01
FR2774573B1 (en) 2000-04-28
ATE238724T1 (en) 2003-05-15

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