Patent ID: 6671911
Filing Date: 2004-01-06
Classification: A61G

Abstract:
An active cushioning support incorporating an upper body cushioning and support surface wherein:a plurality of active cells each having an active body support surface and an attachment surface, each cell comprising a substantially fluid impermeable membrane enclosing an active cushion volume; a supporting surface for supporting said cells and the weight supported on said body contacting surface; passive cushioning foam positioned below the nominal upper surface of a plurality of said active cells; a vacuum source connected selectively to the active cushioning volume of a plurality of said active cells to cause the collapse of the active cushioning volume to retract said body contacting surface; a manifold for distributing vacuum pressure to selected cells comprising distribution channels structurally isolated from said active cells to prevent interruption of the flow of vacuum in said channels by the action of the collapse of one or more of said active cells under the influence of vacuum or the weight of said body on said surface; at least one vacuum distribution valve for periodically connecting and disconnecting one or more manifold distribution channels to said source of vacuum to successively collapse selected cells by application of the vacuum and then re-inflate of said selected cells by venting each said selected cell to atmosphere or cross manifolding said selected cell to one said cell being collapsed, said selected cells consisting of a minority of the cells.