Flexible structure with flow control mechanism for ventilation mattress [통풍 매트의 유연 구조 및 유동 제어 기구]

Abstract

Bedridden patients develop pressure sores, as a result of poor blood circulation and excessive humidity. Conventional bedsore mattresses are designed to vary interface pressure zones, between the body and mattress for improved blood flow. Another approach is to control interface humidity, by forced air circulation. An ideal solution may be interface humidity control, in addition to pressure zone control. In this paper, a thin and flexible structure is suggested for forced air ventilation, that can be placed atop pressure zone controlled mattresses. With fabric covers, drying performances are evaluated for a range of air flow rates. Copyright © The Korean Society for Precision Engineering.