Patent ID: 7784131
Filing Date: 2010-08-31
Classification: A61G

Abstract:
1. A distributed pressure control system for a support surface, the control system comprising: a main controller including a source of pressurized fluid and a communication interface; a fluid manifold having a fluid inlet coupled with the fluid source and a plurality of fluid outlets; and a plurality of control modules, each attachable to a respective one of the plurality of fluid outlets, each control module including at least one valve and including a control unit communicating with the communication interface, wherein the at least one valve comprises one of a solenoid valve or a rotary valve, and wherein the valve comprises an injection-molding housing, wherein the control modules effect inflation and deflation of cells in the support surface via the valves based on a signal from the communication interface, wherein components of the control modules are housed in a molded module housing, and wherein the injection-molded housing of the valve and the module housing are integrated into a single mold.