System, method and apparatus to prevent and treat a disease by optimization of sleep posture and assisted rollovers

A body support system, method and apparatus is described, for preventing and treating a disease or injury by optimization of sleep posture and assisted rollovers. A body support device comprises two or more extendable, retractable support walls, for supporting various parts of a user as a cradle of the body support device is rotated into various positions.

BACKGROUND

I. Field of Use

The present application relates to the field of recuperative therapeutic devices and more specifically to a body support device for comfortably positioning a person during sleep.

II. Description of the Related Art

The most comfortable position for relaxation and ease of breathing is Fowler's-Supine with torso slightly elevated and legs slightly bent at the knees. Today this position is frequently referred to as “zero-gravity” and utilized in adjustable beds and recliners. At the same time, the research shows that an average person spends 54% of his or her total sleeping time on the side (Lateral Decubitus position), which is known to put stress on the shoulders, spine, and the rest of the musculoskeletal system. The importance of side sleeping is well recognized but until recently it was explained almost exclusively from the position of reduced risk of apnea, improved digestion or blood and lymph flow.

Recent scientific discoveries provide a more meaningful explanation for the tendency to sleep on one's side. A new organ in the brain that works in a way similar to body's lymphatic system and removes neurometabolic waste produced by the brain's activities was described in 2012 (Iliff et al,A Paravascular Pathway Facilitates CSF Flow Through the Brain Parenchyma and the Clearance of Interstitial Solutes, Including Amyloidβ. Sci Transl Med. 2012 Aug. 15; 4(147): 147ra111). The new organ is called the glymphatic system (“g” is for glial cells of the brain). The glymphatic system was later shown to be active only during sleep (Xie et al,Sleep Drives Metabolite Clearance from the Adult Brain. Science. 2013 Oct. 18; 342(6156); 373-377). Most recent experimental data demonstrated that the glymphatic system is most efficient at removal of the metabolic waste during the sleep in the lateral decubitus position (Lee at al,The Effect of Body Posture on Brain Glymphatic Transport. J Neurosci. 2015 Aug. 5; 35(31):11034-44).

Another important consideration for sleep improvement is postural changes during sleep. The general public and even most practicing physicians (who don't specialize in sleep medicine) believe that people have a favorite sleeping position which is voluntarily maintained during the night and normal sleep is static, while tossing and turning is a sign of insomnia or a bad mattress. Tossing and turning (scientific terms are “nocturnal body movements”, “rollovers”, or “postural changes”) have been well studied and it is well established that regular rollovers are a normal and necessary part of healthy sleep.

A large 2017 study (Skarpsno et al,Sleep positions and nocturnal body movements based on free-living accelerometer recordings: association with demographics, lifestyle, and insomnia symptoms. Nat Sci Sleep. 2017 Nov. 1; 9:267-275) demonstrated that on average, an adult rolls over completely from one side to the other about 13 times a night (1.6 rollovers per hour, or every 37 minutes (Skarpsno et al,Sleep positions and nocturnal body movements based on free-living accelerometer recordings: association with demographics, lifestyle, and insomnia symptoms. Nat Sci Sleep. 2017 Nov. 1; 9:267-275). An earlier publication similarly reported rollover frequencies of 4.4 to 2.1 rollovers per hour (every 14-29 minutes) (De Koninck et al,Sleep positions and position shifts in five age groups: an ontogenetic picture. Sleep. 1992 April; 15(2):143-9).

Rollovers are critical for release of pressure and blood flow through the compressed tissues. Immobile patients or those who are bed ridden for long time have to be rolled over every 2 hours to prevent formation of bed sores. Accumulation of fluid in the lungs and subsequent lung infections is another complication of static sleep. Prolonged pressure on intervertebral disks and other joints is also an important reason to engage in postural changes.

Skarpsno et al (2017) reported that time in the side position increased with age, accompanied by a proportional decrease in time in the back position. In the age-group 20-34 years, time spent on the side was 47.7%, whereas in the age group 55-65 years, time spent on the side was 58.3%. An earlier study on 65-75-year-old subjects showed that 77% of sleeping time was spent on a side (Lorrain et al,Sleep positions and postural shifts in elderly persons. Percept Mot Skills. 1986 October; 63(2 Pt 1):352-4). A continuous shift in preference toward the side position is also supported by a study that included age-groups from 3-5 years to 65-85 years (De Koninck et al, 1992). A study conducted on 600 women of different age demonstrated the same trend (Sahlin et al,Sleep in women: Normal values for sleep stages and position and the effect of age, obesity, sleep apnea, smoking, alcohol and hypertension. Sleep Med. 2009 October; 10(9): 1025-30).

It has been proposed that the preference for lateral position in older individuals may be due to loss of spine flexibility or decreased efficiency of respiratory or cardio-vascular functions (De Koninck et al, 1992).

Fewer body movements during sleep may mimic the overall decrease in motor activity seen in old people during wakefulness (Renfrew et al,Motor activity and sleep duration as a function of age in healthy men. Physiol Behav. 1987; 41(6):627-34). Another possibility may be that the brain becomes with age less able to produce body movements during sleep (Giganti et al,Body movements during night sleep and their relationship with sleep stages are further modified in very old subjects. Brain Res Bull. 2008 Jan. 31; 75(1):66-9). Yet another possible explanation is that skin nociceptors, become less able to detect pressure (or ischemia) and produce signals that lead to postural changes.

The older individuals who already have back and shoulder problems are particularly vulnerable. It was suggested that it is not sleeping in the decubitus position per se that puts the patient at risk but postural immobility in the decubitus position. The groups that had high occurrence of shoulder pain (the elderly, those with neurodegenerative diseases or spinal cord injury, suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, patients that are given sedatives) are known to experience greater postural immobility during sleep (Zenian J,Sleep position and shoulder pain. Med Hypotheses. 2010 April; 74(4):639-43). The longer the person remains in the same decubitus position, the greater the amount of strain imposed on the shoulder by the weight of the upper body. Experimental studies have shown that the harmful effects of pressure (ischemia, and cellular damage and inflammation) increase the longer the body stays in the same position.

Optimization of sleep routine by (1) improved comfort and postural alignment in lateral decubitus position, (2) ease of transitioning between the positions, and (3) predetermined amount of time in specified positions can provide better sleep and brain recovery, and likely prevent and treat neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline.

A body support device has been described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,713,729, comprising a frame having side walls to support a user in a lateral decubitus position as the frame is rotated. The system described by U.S. Pat. No. 8,713,729 has side walls permanently fixed and lacking structure, which in some cases made the system less suitable for all-night, long-term use.

Specifically, each side wall was formed by a pair of supporting rods and fabric suspended between the supporting rods. The hammock-like structure of the suspended fabric does not have a shape of its own and under the weight of user's thorax will assume a concave (i.e., D-shaped) form. While perfectly acceptable for a user with minimal muscle definition and average adiposity in the thoracic area (pectoral muscle-armpit-latissimus dorsi) it may not be suitable for both athletic and skinny individuals, because it may squeeze the large muscles of chest and back (pectorals and latissimus dorsi) together (filling the void under armpit) and causing discomfort.

Moreover, the right side wall is only required when a user is in the right lateral decubitus position. Likewise, the left side wall is only required when a user is in the left lateral decubitus position. Stationary positioning of the side walls (and upper arm support extending therefrom) unnecessarily restricts movements in the supine position and reduces access to different body parts (i.e., can't reach the ear or chest for a trivial scratch). Furthermore, taking a deep breath may be difficult due to the requirement that the stationary side walls fit snuggly so that the user's torso does not sag when in a lateral decubitus position.

Further still, when a user of the prior art body supporting device is in the left lateral decubitus position, the user's right arm is above the body. The left side wall performs the function of supporting the user while the right side wall in this position at that moment performs no useful function. Due to the stationary nature, the right side wall remains between the user's body and upper arm. The inner side of the user's upper arm resides on the side wall. Even though the side wall is relatively thin and soft (about 2 cm when not compressed) it is a foreign object pressing against a sensitive inner area of the arm just a few centimeters below the armpit. The inner side of upper arm contains brachial plexus nerves (musculocutaneous, radial, median, axillary, ulnar) and blood vessels running from the body down the arm. These nerves and blood vessels reside in the thin layer of tissues between the skin and bone and are protected only by a thin layer of adipose and muscle tissue, making the upper arm's inner surface sensitive and irritable. Extended pressure on upper arm's inner side may cause discomfort, numbing, tingling feeling in the fingers, etc. While the stationary side walls described in prior art are acceptable for users with significant adiposity, thin users run a risk of pressure and irritation on the nerves of the inner upper arm.

It would be desirable to alleviate the problems caused by the stationary sidewalls in a device that allows a sleeper to maintain proper spinal alignment, distribute body weight evenly, and eliminate shoulder pain and discomfort from sleeping on one's side.

SUMMARY

A body support system, method and apparatus is described, for preventing and treating a disease or injury by optimization of sleep posture and assisted rollovers. In one embodiment, a body support device is described, comprising a back rest comprising left and right vertical openings spaced apart from each other by approximately a width of a human torso, an electric motor for rotating the body support device around a longitudinal axis of the body support device and holding the body support device in a plurality of angles from a horizontal reference position, a right torso-support assembly, located behind the back rest and aligned with the right vertical opening, the right torso-support assembly comprising a right torso support wall for supporting a right side of the human torso when the body support device is rotated to a first angle with respect to the horizontal reference position, and a left torso-support assembly, located behind the back rest and aligned with the left vertical opening, the left torso-support assembly comprising a left torso support wall for supporting a left side of the human torso when the body support device is rotated to a second angle with respect to the horizontal reference position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The ideas presented herein relate to various embodiments of a body support device used to promote therapeutic sleep.

FIG.1is a three-quarter, perspective view of one embodiment of a body support device100, comprising a cradle102that supports a user's body while asleep, resting or undergoing therapy. Cradle102is rotatable along an axis running longitudinally through the device, extending from the “head” portion to the “feet” portion of the device, thus allowing the user to be rotated generally between +/−about 95 degrees from a horizontal reference position, i.e., from a “flat” position where the user is placed in a supine position or zero degrees rotation from a flat, horizontal position. The horizontal reference position may also refer to a “zero-gravity” position, best shown inFIG.5. Cradle102is rotated using an electric motor and control unit (not shown) that causes cradle102to rotate into various angles, as will be described later herein.FIG.1illustrates cradle102rotated to the user's left by about 60 degrees from the horizontal reference position, whileFIG.2shows cradle102rotated to the user's right by about 60 degrees from the horizontal reference position.

As cradle102is rotated from the horizontal reference position, i.e., at about 5-15 degrees from the horizontal reference position, towards the user's left, a left torso support wall104is deployed/extended from behind cradle102, through a left vertical slip (not shown) that is formed through the cradle in an area between the user's torso and the user's left arm. Left torso support wall104supports the user's torso as cradle102is rotated into a left position, as shown inFIG.1. In one embodiment, the control unit determines when cradle102is at an angle of about 5 and 15 degrees with respect to the horizontal reference position and causes the left torso support assembly to deploy the left torso support through the left vertical opening. In another embodiment, the control unit causes the left torso support assembly to deploy the left torso support through the left vertical opening just before the control unit begins rotating cradle102, i.e., while cradle102is in a supine position. The left torso-support assembly is mounted behind cradle102, in an area behind the user's left torso. Similarly, a right torso support mechanism is mounted in an area behind the user's right torso, and a right torso support wall106is deployed through a right vertical opening when the control unit determines that cradle102is being rotated toward the right and the angle from the horizontal reference position is about between 5 and 15 degrees. The right vertical opening is formed through the cradle in an area between the user's torso and the user's right arm.

Generally, only one of the torso support walls is deployed at any given time, although when cradle102is within about 15 degrees of the horizontal reference position, neither side wall is deployed.

Cradle102also comprises two head supports108extending from a head support area of cradle102, spaced apart approximately the width of an average human head. Leg support110extends from a lower portion of cradle102, supporting each leg as cradle102is rotated, with the user's left leg resting on leg support110when cradle102is rotated towards the user's right, and with the user's right leg resting on leg support110when cradle102is rotated towards the user's left.

FIGS.3and4are perspective views of another embodiment of the body support device shown inFIGS.1and2. In this embodiment, left arm support114and right arm support112are used to support the user's arm when cradle102is rotated from the horizontal reference position. As shown inFIG.3, as a user begins to rotate to the user's left from the horizontal reference position, left side wall104is deployed/extended to support the user's left torso, as before. However, in addition, right arm support112is deployed/extended either through the same left vertical opening where right torso support wall106extends, or through a separate opening proximate to the left vertical opening between the user's right arm and torso. Similar to the torso support walls as described above, left arm support114is retracted behind cradle102, as shown, as right arm support112is deployed (or at some point during rotation to the user's left). Similarly, as shown inFIG.4, as cradle102is rotated to the user's right from the horizontal reference position, right side wall106is deployed/extended from the vertical opening as before, and also left arm support114is deployed/extended through either the same left vertical opening where left torso support wall104extends, or through a separate opening proximate to the vertical opening between the user's left arm and torso. Right arm support112is retracted as left arm support104is deployed (or at some point during rotation of cradle102to the user's right). By extending the arm supports as described, the user's arm opposing the direction of rotation is comfortably supported by an arm support above the user's body, while the arm in the direction of rotation is in direct contact with the user's body, thereby improving the user's comfort and preventing nerve irritation.

The side walls may comprise rigid or semi-rigid material, such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, plastic, polyurethane, or some other material strong enough to support the user's torso when cradle102is rotated, 0-100 degrees from the horizontal reference position. In some embodiments, the side walls may be customized to a particular user by casting a mold, by electronic scanning, or some other known method, of the user's torso and forming the side walls from the mold. Customization helps fill a void between the user's pectoralis and latissimus dorsi muscles when a side wall is deployed. In some embodiments, the side walls may comprise two rods with fabric stretched therebetween, or a combination of a rigid portion with fabric or some other soft material in other portions to accommodate for certain conditions and body types, or to facilitate deployment and retraction. The arm supports, if used, allow a user's arm to be in very close proximity with the body (or in some embodiments in direct contact) during rotation of cradle102, yet remain comfortably supported, especially when the user's elbow is bent as shown inFIGS.3and4, to prevent overstretching of a user's infraspinatus muscles. Arm supports112and114described here ensure that infraspinatus and other upper back muscles are not overstretched by the upper arm pulled down by the gravity and the sensitive nerves (brachial plexus) and blood vessels of the upper arm are not in contact with any object which may cause pressure and nerve irritation.

Each of the arm supports is part of an electro-mechanical arm support assembly located behind cradle102in proximity to the torso support assemblies described with respect toFIGS.1and2. Each of the arm support assemblies comprises one or more electric motors, gears, a rack and pinion or other suitable mechanical device(s), that cause each arm support to extend and retract through respective vertical openings formed through cradle102, spaced apart from each other about the width of a typical human torso.

FIG.5is another embodiment of a body support device, in this embodiment, body support device500, comprising cradle502, base frame504, tilt support member506, left torso-support assembly508and left torso-support assembly510. This embodiment does not utilize arm supports. Cradle502is shown in the horizontal reference position, i.e., not rotated to the left or the right and placing a user in cradle502in a supine (face up) position.

During operation, while a user is laying in cradle102, with the user's back against back rest520, cradle102is rotated along an imaginary axis running along the length of cradle102, to the user's right and left. It may also be positioned vertically in order for a user to easily move in and out of cradle102. For example,FIG.5shows cradle102in a supine position, andFIG.7, shows cradle102positioned upright in order to easily allow the user to get in and out of cradle102. Actuator700is responsible for pivoting cradle502from the supine position to the upright position. In one embodiment, actuator700comprises a linear actuator controlled by control unit (not shown) that is part of body support device500. In other embodiments, any other well-known electro-mechanical device could be used to position cradle500into the positions shown inFIGS.5and7. The term “actuator” means a linear actuator, a gear/motor combination, linear motor, rack and pinion, or any other mechanical or electro-mechanical device well-known in the art to move the cradle. Actuator700can move cradle502anywhere between a supine position to an upright position to angle the cradle to raise a user's head above the user's feet or vice versa while cradle is in supine or any rotated position.

Right torso-support assembly508is shown mechanically coupled to the frame that also supports the cradle502in an area behind opening518near where a user's left torso would lie in cradle102, extending perpendicularly thereto, while left torso-support assembly510is also shown mechanically coupled to the frame that supports the cradle502in an area behind opening516near where a user's right torso would lie in cradle102, extending perpendicularly thereto. Each of the torso-support assemblies comprises a motor, a linkage and a torso support wall. The torso support wall of each assembly is extended/retracted through cradle102as the motor drives the linkage. Each torso-support assembly moves its respective side wall in a complex manner that causes each side wall to move around the user's torso while being deployed or extracted, as will be explained in greater detail later herein. Opening518is sized and shaped to allow a right torso support wall to extend and retract in a complex motion where the right torso support wall moves both horizontally (with respect to a user's torso) and also in and out from the surface of cradle500. The same applies to opening516. Each of the openings may be partially filled with a custom back support (described later herein), leaving enough space for each respective wall to retract and extend in a complex way.

Proximate to each of the openings is a respective back support, fixed to cradle500, referenced as right back support522and left back support524. Each of the back supports may be customized to match a portion of a user's back, for providing maximum comfort to a user.

Also shown inFIG.5is right head support opening512and left head support opening514, spaced apart by approximately a width of a human head. Each opening allows a respective head support wall to extend/retract through a front surface of cradle502, for supporting a user's head when cradle502has been rotated to the left and for supporting a user's head when cradle502has been rotated to the right.

FIG.6is a perspective view of the body support device500shown inFIG.5, with cradle502rotated to the left by approximately 95 degrees. This view illustrates electric motor604coupled to gear box600coupled to pivot point602, which causes rotation of cradle502in accordance with signals from control unit (not shown). Pivot point602is rotatably coupled to vertical support member606. A similar pivot point rotatably supports and connects cradle502to vertical support member608. Also shown is a simplified view of a right head support wall610, in a retracted state, for supporting a right side of a user's head while cradle502is in a right-rotated position, which will be explained in further detail later herein (not shown is a deployed left head support wall for supporting a left side of a user's head while cradle502is in a left-rotated position).

FIG.8is a perspective view of left torso-support assembly508and right torso-support assembly510as they would appear when coupled to the back side of cradle502from a rear, bottom, right vantage point. Left torso-support assembly508and right torso-support assembly510are mirror images of each other, i.e., each assembly comprises the same parts as the other. Therefore, only a discussion of left torso-support assembly510is provided, equally applicable to right torso-support assembly508. Further, some components are additionally or alternatively shown in right torso-support assembly510for purposes of clarity. It should be understood that the same or similar components shown inFIG.8to form left torso-support assembly510could be used to form one or more head support assemblies, for extending/retracting head support walls, one or more leg support assemblies, for extending/retracting leg support walls, or some other support assemblies and associated walls.

Each torso-support assembly comprises two, parallel plates816and818, in this embodiment spaced apart about 16 cm from each other, coupled together by six standoffs820,822,824,826,828and830. Each of the plates comprise three guide grooves832,834and836, with matching guide grooves not shown on plate816, due to the viewing angle ofFIG.8. A linkage806is held by the guide grooves by rollers in three places, at a top end cap804(held by guide groove832), a bottom end cap808(held by guide groove836, a carriage814(held by guide groove834) and an electric motor844embedded in, or coupled to, carriage814. The guide grooves cause linkage806(and the torso support800attached via end cap804) to move in a complex manner that causes the torso support wall to move around the user's torso while being deployed or retracted.

Left torso-support assembly508is shown fully extended, i.e., with left torso support wall800aligned with back support524such that the two form a continuous back and side support for a user's right torso when cradle502is rotated into a right angle with respect to the horizontal reference position. In this position, left torso support wall800is extended through a left vertical opening formed in cradle502in proximity to an area between the user's left torso and the user's left arm while positioned in cradle502. Each of left torso support wall800and back support524is shown as curved pieces formed from a mold of a typical user's torso or a mold from a particular user's torso.

Left torso support wall800is mechanically coupled to top end cap804, which forms part of linkage806. Linkage806comprises top end cap804and bottom end cap808, joined together by two connecting rods810. The connecting rods are slidably coupled to electric motor844via two through holes formed through a carriage814(with linear ball bearings). The rods are generally made from a strong, rigid material, such as metal, e.g. forged steel, as the rods support the weight of a user when cradle501is rotated. Linkage806further comprises rack812, which comprises an elongated, toothed member that is also coupled to top end cap804and bottom end cap808. Rack812engages with a pinion gear of an electric motor844, which causes linkage806to extend and retract as dictated by the guide grooves when electric motor844is energized in forward and reverse directions, respectively.

FIG.9is a top, plan view of plate818, showing the shapes and relationships among guide grooves832,834and836. Each of the guide grooves comprises an uninterrupted wall approximately 10 mm thick and 10 mm tall. The walls define areas838,840and842, which are sized to accommodate rollers attached to top end804, carriage814and bottom end808, respectively. As electric motor844is energized, its pinion gear acts on rack812, causing the carriage with electric motor844to move generally horizontally within area840, while top end804and bottom end808each moves generally vertically, guided by guide groove832and836, respectively. This causes the complex movement of the torso support wall, i.e., the torso support wall moving around the user's torso while being deployed or retracted.

FIG.10is a perspective, cutaway view of left torso-support assembly510, shown in a horizontal position, with left torso support wall800fully extended. Plate816is not shown in this figure, however reciprocal guide grooves1000,1002and1004, normally located on plate816and corresponding to guide grooves832,834and836, respectively, are shown in position where they would normally be, in order to visualize how the guide grooves work in pairs to guide left torso support wall800as it moves from the fully-extended position, as shown, to a fully-retracted position, and vice-versa.

In the position shown inFIG.10, a pinion gear of electric motor844has acted on rack812, causing rack812to move connecting rods810through the carriage814, and thereby left torso support wall800, into a fully-extended position. Top end cap804comprises a pair of rollers, one of which is visible inFIG.10as roller1006. The rollers move within guide grooves832and1000, respectively, as electric motor844acts on rack812which, in turn, causes movement of top end cap804and left torso support wall800in both lateral and vertical directions. Similarly, the carriage814comprises a pair of rollers1008and1010, which guide carriage814and electric motor844primarily in a lateral direction, substantially perpendicularly to the motion of left torso support wall800, via guide grooves834and1002, respectively. The rollers1008and1010and guide grooves834and1002hold the carriage in its position relative to the vertically moving linkage as well as provide a moving (laterally) pivot point and also allows to change the linkage angle (as the rollers on top and bottom end caps follow their respective grooves) and, consequently, the angle at which torso support wall retracts/deploys and contacts the torso.

Finally, again referring toFIG.10, bottom end cap808is shown, comprising rollers1012and1014that cause bottom end cap808to move within guide grooves836and1004, respectively, as electric motor844acts on rack812which, in turn, causes movement of bottom end cap808in both a lateral and a vertical direction.

FIG.11is a perspective, cutaway view of left torso-support assembly510with left torso support wall800about half-way extended/retracted. Plate816is again not shown in order to visualize guide grooves1000,1002and1004and how they influence the movement of left torso support wall800. In the position shown inFIG.11, the pinion gear of electric motor844has acted on rack812, causing rack812to move connecting rods810about half-way through carriage814, and thereby left torso support wall800, in a vertical direction towards carriage814into the position as shown. Rack812and connecting rods810are shown as having moved about half their length past carriage814. Top end cap804has moved along a contour defined by the shape of guide groove832and1000via rollers1006and another roller not shown in this view. Carriage814is shown as having moved primarily laterally within guide grooves834and1002to about a mid-point of guide grooves834and1002via rollers1008and1010. In the position shown inFIG.11, left torso support wall800is positioned a maxim distance away from back support524when carriage814is positioned as shown at a mid-point inside guide grooves834and1002. Allowing carriage814to slide horizontally within guide grooves834and1002creates a sliding pivot point for the right torso support wall800to extend around a human torso of a user laying in the cradle, via the connecting rods. Bottom end cap808is shown also as having been moved along a contour of guide grooves836and1004about mid-way, via rollers1012and1014, as electric motor844acts on rack812which, in turn, causes movement of bottom end cap808in both a lateral and a vertical direction.

FIG.12is a perspective, cutaway view of left torso-support assembly510with left torso support wall800fully retracted. Plate816is again not shown in order to visualize guide grooves1000,1002and1004and how they influence the movement of left torso support wall800. In the position shown inFIG.12, the pinion gear of electric motor844has acted on rack812, causing rack812to move connecting rods810fully through carriage814, and causing left torso support wall800to move primarily in a vertical direction towards carriage814into the position as shown. Rack812and connecting rods810are shown as having moved entirely past carriage814. Top end cap804has moved fully along the contour defined by the shape of guide groove832and1000via rollers1006and another roller not shown in this view. Carriage814is shown as having moved primarily laterally within guide grooves834and1002to the opposing end of guide grooves834and1002via rollers1008and1010. In the position shown inFIG.12, left torso support wall800is retracted fully through opening516when carriage814is positioned as shown at the opposing end position inside guide grooves834and1002. Bottom end cap808is shown also as having been moved fully along the contour of guide grooves836and1004, via rollers1012and1014, as carriage814acts on rack812which, in turn, causes movement of bottom end cap808in both a lateral and a vertical direction.

FIGS.13A-13Fillustrate left torso-support assembly508, viewed from a bottom position, i.e., looking along an axis through cradle502from a user's feet to the user's head as the user lays on cradle502, as left torso support wall800is deployed from a fully retracted position, as shown inFIG.13A, to a fully extended position inFIG.13F. For clarity, no other elements of body support device500is shown in these figures.

FIG.13Ashows left torso support wall800fully retracted behind a front surface of cradle502(not shown). Left torso support wall800meets with back support524at a point1300, where a top portion1304of left torso support wall800is flush with a left portion1306of back support524, in this embodiment. In this way, a user's torso1302is supported primarily by back support524while lying in the horizontal reference position. In other embodiments, left torso support wall800may be retracted further, so that top portion1304of left torso support wall800is not flush with right portion1306of back support524. Left torso support wall800is mechanically coupled to fill portion1310, which comprises hard or semi-hard material for supporting left torso support wall800at a position shown with respect to top end cap804. In one embodiment, the fill portion1310comprises fiberglass resin or some other moldable compound that ultimately becomes rigid or semi-rigid.

FIG.13Afurther illustrates the components of left torso-support assembly508, namely parallel plate818, top end cap804, one of two connecting rods810, and carriage814. As shown, top end cap804is positioned near carriage814while a majority of the length of the connecting rods are pushed through motor844(hidden behind parallel plate818).

FIG.13Billustrates left torso support wall800positioned about 20% deployed. Here, motor844has extended the connecting rods, via rack812, and thus torso support wall800, into the position shown. Note that carriage814has moved to the right (further to the left of the torso) within guide grooves834and1002, and how left torso wall800has moved vertically, horizontally and has also been rotated slightly counter-clockwise with respect to the torso, due to the sliding pivot point of carriage814within guide grooves. This complex, arcing movement continues as left torso support wall800moves from the fully retracted position to the fully extended position.

FIG.13Cillustrates left torso support wall800positioned about 40% deployed. Carriage814has still further extended the connecting rods via rack812, and thus torso support wall800, into the position shown. Left torso support wall800continues to move around the contour of torso1302, and carriage814has been moved further to the right ((further to the left of the torso).

FIG.13Dillustrates left torso support wall800positioned about 60% deployed. Carriage814has still further extended the connecting rods via rack812, and thus torso support wall800, into the position shown. Left torso support wall800continues to move around the contour of torso1302, and carriage814has been moved still further to the right (further to the left of the torso). At the same time support wall800started to move in the opposite direction to (from left to right of the torso) to complete deployment.

FIG.13Eillustrates left torso support wall800positioned about 80% deployed. Carriage814has still further extended the connecting rods via rack812, and thus torso support wall800, into the position shown. Left torso support wall800continues to move around the contour of torso1302, and carriage814has been moved further to the right.

FIG.13Fillustrates left torso support wall800positioned 100% deployed. Carriage814has extended the connecting rods fully via rack812, and thus fully extended torso support wall800so that the bottom portion1308of left torso support wall800forms a predominantly continuous surface with right side1306of back support524. Left torso support wall800now fully contacts torso1302, thus supporting torso1302as cradle502is rotated to the right. Note that carriage814has moved to a maximum right position, no longer visible behind parallel plate818and that the rod810and side wall800have gradually changed the angle compared to the position inFIG.13A. Support wall800completed the crest-like path as it travelled up and to the left of torso inFIGS.13A-Cand up and to the right of torso inFIGS.13D-F.

FIG.14is a perspective view of one embodiment of head support assembly1400, comprising right head support wall610, right electric motor1404, right rack1406, top right guide1408, bottom right guide1410, left head support wall1402, top left guide1420, bottom left guide1422, and a supporting frame, comprising frame members1412,1414,1416, and1418. Not shown are several components for extending/retracting left head support wall1402, such as a corresponding left electric motor and a left rack. Left head support wall1402operates in the same manner as right head support wall610, so that any discussion with respect to right head support wall610will be also applicable to left head support wall1402. For clarity, no other elements of body support device500are shown inFIG.14. It should be understood that the same or similar components shown inFIG.14to form head support assembly1400could be used to form one or more leg support assemblies, for extending/retracting leg support walls, as shown later inFIGS.18-21.

InFIG.14, both head support walls are shown in a fully extended position, extending through openings512and514if cradle502were shown. Right side wall610is extended/retracted by right electric motor1404operating on rack1406, which comprises a toothed edge for engagement with a pinion (not shown) of right electric motor1404. One end of rack1406is mechanically coupled to right head support wall610via block1424such that right head support wall610extends/retracts as right electric motor1404acts on rack1406. Right electric motor1404rotates in one direction for extending right head support wall610and in an opposing direction for retracting right head support wall610. Right electric motor1404is operated by a control unit (not shown, but discussed later herein) and motor driving circuitry, which is well-known in the art.

Right electric motor1404is mechanically coupled to frame member1416, which in turn is mechanically coupled to the other frame members to form a mechanical frame for supporting the electric motors, the guides and the head support walls. Right head support wall610is slidably attached to top guide1408and bottom guide1410(similar guides for left head support wall1402are shown as left top guide1420and right bottom guide1422). The guides define a direction that each head support wall follow during extension/retraction, in this case, essentially perpendicularly with openings512and514. The guides also bear weight of user's head placed on the deployed support wall610when cradle is rotated. Each guide, in this embodiment, comprises a movable portion that is mechanically coupled to each head support wall, respectively, and a fixed portion for receiving the movable portion, similar to standard drawer slides.

It should be understood that in other embodiments, head support assembly1400could comprise a number of other components, or types of components, arranged differently than is shown inFIG.14, without departing from the scope of the disclosure as shown inFIG.14, and that such alternative mechanical arrangements would be obvious to one skilled in the art.

FIG.15is a perspective view of another embodiment of a body support device, in this embodiment body support device1500, shown in a flat, supine position. In this embodiment, cradle1501is comparable to cradle502and cradle102in that it supports a user's body during sleep, capable of rotating cradle1501about a longitudinal axis of cradle1501, as shown later inFIGS.18-20. Cradle1501is shown in a “flat” position with respect to base frame1516, allowing a user to easily access body support device1500by lying face up on cradle1501. In one embodiment, cradle1501is rotatably coupled to gimbal1518, which provides mechanical support to cradle1501as well as an electric motor for rotating cradle1501about its longitudinal axis and, in some embodiments, for additionally rotating cradle1501in a fore and aft direction, i.e., about an axis running sideways through cradle1501.

In the embodiment shown inFIG.15, cradle1501comprises extendable/retractable head support walls1502and1504, torso support walls1506and1508, arm support walls (not shown) and leg support walls1510,1512and1514. It should be understood that in other embodiments, fewer support walls could be used. For example, in another embodiment, arm support walls are not used. It should also be understood that each of the support walls are extended/retracted using electro-mechanical assemblies similar to the ones shown inFIG.8(for complex deployment/retraction) or the one shown inFIG.14, each assembly coupled to the back side of cradle1501behind respective openings or slits in cradle1501.

Each of the walls is extendable/retractable through cradle1501, where each wall is part of an electro-mechanical assembly that causes each wall to extend or retract based on a rotational position of cradle1501. Each electro-mechanical assembly is not shown, however each assembly may resemble torso or head support assemblies508,510or1400. In some embodiments, the complex movement provided by torso support assemblies508and510is not required for some of the support walls, such as head support walls1502and1504, arm support walls, or leg support walls1510and1512. In these embodiments, the guide grooves of these assemblies could be formed vertically (referencingFIGS.10-12), with no provision for lateral movement of a wall as a wall is being extended/retracted. In other embodiments, guide groves are not used, and the walls are extended/retracted using known electro-mechanical means using a combination of motors, gears, pulleys, cams and/or other mechanical devices, including hydraulic and pneumatic devices, to cause walls to extend and retract. In one embodiment, one or more of the walls are extended/retracted by inflation/deflation of one or more inflatable walls.

Each of the support walls shown inFIG.15is retracted and flush with a top surface of cradle1501.

FIG.15additional shows control unit1524. Control unit1524may comprise a user interface, comprised of a number of pushbuttons, knobs, touchscreens or one or more of a number of well-known components to allow a user to enter and receive information pertaining to the operation of body support device1500. Control unit1524causes rotation of cradle1501in accordance with processor-executable instructions stored in a memory of1524, as well as other functions, such as, in one embodiment, recording various metrics during use of body support device1500, such as a time cradle1501is positioned at various rotational angles, as well as, in some embodiments, vital metrics of a user, such as a history of heartbeat, respiratory rate, etc. if cradle1501is equipped with sensors to monitor such metrics.

FIG.15further shows tilt sensor1526located at a top right position of cradle1501, however it could be located virtually anywhere on cradle1501. Tilt sensor1526is used to determine the rotational angle of cradle1501and provide this rotational angle information to control unit1524, for causing control unit1524to deploy/retract various walls when cradle1501reaches +/−about five to fifteen degrees from the horizontal reference position. Electronic tilt sensors are well-known in the art.

FIG.16is a perspective view of body support device1500, shown in a reclined position. As shown here, cradle1501comprises three sections, an upper section1600, a mid-section1602and a lower section1604. Upper section1600and lower section1604are movable with respect to mid-section1602via electro-mechanical means using a combination of motors, gears, pulleys, cams and/or other mechanical devices to place upper section1600and lower section1604into the positions shown inFIG.16. The electro-mechanical means are generally located on a back surface of cradle1501and, therefore, are not shown. Upper support1600, lower support1604, and mid-section1602are shown angled with respect to each other to position legs and torso (hip angle) at approximately 128 degrees and knees bent at approximately 133 degrees, the position sometimes referred to as “zero-gravity” and resembles mid-Fowler's, but could, alternatively, be placed at any angle between 180 and 90 degrees, depending on user comfort and/or medical necessity.

In the position shown inFIG.16, cradle1501forms a depression1608, formed by a cut through cradle1501around an area where a user's hips may be located. This may add to the comfort of a user while using body support device1500.

In addition to providing mechanical support and rotation of cradle1501, gimbal1518may also be configured to position upper section1600and lower section1604using a combination of additional motors, gears, pulleys, cams and/or other suitable mechanical components.

FIG.17is a perspective view of body support device1500, shown in a reclined position along with a user1700lying in cradle1501. Some of the support walls can be seen, still retracted, as cradle1501is in the horizontal reference position, i.e., in a position where user1700is in a supine position, i.e., face up.

4 is a perspective view of body support device1500, shown without user1700, in a right-rotated position, i.e., towards a user's right side if user1700were occupying cradle1501. As shown, cradle1501has been rotated approximately 50 degrees to the right from the horizontal reference position by gimbal1518. As cradle1501is moving to the right from the horizontal reference position, at about between 0 and 15 degrees from the horizontal reference position (herein the “right deployment/retraction angle”), a number of walls are extended through cradle1501to support the user while cradle1501continues rotating past the right deployment/retraction angle. In the embodiment ofFIG.18, right head support wall1502, right torso support wall1506, outer right arm support wall1520, right leg support wall1510, middle leg support wall1514, and left arm support wall1816are extended through right head support slit1800, right torso support slit1804, outer right arm support slit1814, right leg support slit1810, middle leg support slit1812and left arm support slit1806, respectively, as cradle1501is rotated past the right deployment/retraction angle. Each of the slits is formed completely through cradle1501, allowing respective walls to retract and extend. Outer right arm support wall1520supports a user's right arm while cradle1501is rotated to a position greater than the right deployment/retraction angle. Slits1800and1802are spaced apart from each other approximately a width of an expected user's head, while slits1806and2000(shown inFIG.20) are spaced apart from each other approximately a width of an expected user's torso.

Also shown inFIG.18are sensors1818,1820,1822and1824. The sensors comprise one or more of pressure sensors, motion sensors, electroencephalography sensors, eye tracking sensors, temperature sensors, capacitance sensors, or some other kind of sensors that help determine a desire of a user to rotate cradle1501. For example, in one embodiment, torso sensors1822and1824comprise pressure sensors, and are located within or on a surface of cradle1501as shown, near a user's upper torso on each side such that when the user rolls over to the left, for example, the user's weight pressed upon torso sensor1824causes torso sensor1824to send a signal to a control unit1524, causing control unit1524to rotate cradle1501to the left. Similarly, when a user turns his or her head to the right, head sensor1818detects the movement of the user's head and sends a signal to control unit1524, causing the cradle to rotate to the right.

In one embodiment, one or more sensors may comprise a heartbeat sensor, a respiratory rate sensor, a temperature sensor, or some other sensor used to capture human vital signs. In this embodiment, the sensor(s) provide vital sign information to control unit1524for historical record-keeping purposes and/or for control unit1524to adjust the rotational angle of cradle1501in response to receiving certain vital signs. For example, control unit1524may cause cradle1501to rotate back to the horizontal reference position if the user's heartbeat exceeds a predetermined threshold, such as 99 beats per minute or if electroencephalography sensor detects a switch in sleep phase.

FIG.19shows user1700lying in cradle1501as cradle1501is held in the right-rotated position of about 60 degrees from the horizontal reference position while all of the aforementioned walls ofFIG.18have been deployed. The right side of user1700's head is supported by right head support wall1502. The right side of user1700's torso is supported by right torso support wall1506. User1700's right arm is supported by outer right arm support wall1520. The right side of user1700's right leg is supported by right leg support wall1510. The right side of user1700's left leg is supported by middle support wall1514. Finally, user1700's left arm is supported by left arm support wall1816.

FIG.20is a perspective view of body support device1500, shown without user1700, in a left-rotated position, i.e., towards a user's left side if user1700were occupying cradle1501. As shown, cradle1501has been rotated approximately 60 degrees to the left from the horizontal reference position by gimbal1518. As cradle1501is moving from the horizontal reference position to the left, at about between 5 and 15 degrees from the horizontal reference position (herein the “left deployment/retraction angle”), a number of walls are extended through cradle1501to support the user while cradle1501continues rotating past the left deployment/retraction angle. In the embodiment ofFIG.20, left head support wall1504, left torso support wall1508, outer left arm support wall1522, left leg support wall1512, middle leg support wall1514, and right arm support wall2004are extended through left head support slit1802, left torso support slit2000, outer left arm support slit (not shown), left leg support slit1808, middle leg support slit1812and right arm support slit2002, respectively, as cradle1501is rotated past the left deployment/retraction angle. Each of the slits is formed completely through cradle1501, allowing respective walls to retract and extend. Outer left arm support wall1522supports a user's left arm while cradle1501is rotated to a position greater than the left deployment/retraction angle.

FIG.21shows user1700lying in cradle1501as cradle1501is held in the left-rotated position of about 50 degrees from the horizontal reference position while all of the aforementioned walls ofFIG.20have been deployed. The left side of user1700's head is supported by left head support wall1504. The left side of user1700's torso is supported by left torso support wall1508. User1700's left arm is supported by outer left arm support wall1522. The left side of user1700's left leg is supported by left leg support wall1512. The left side of user1700's right leg is supported by middle support wall1514. Finally, user1700's right arm is supported by right arm support wall2004.

Generally, cradle1501is rotated from the horizontal reference position, to either a user's left or the right, then rotated back through the horizontal reference position and to the user's other side. This rotation may occur several times over the course of sleep and may include rotations from one side to the horizontal reference position, and then back to the same side. As cradle1501is being rotated from the left towards the horizontal reference position, any wall that is deployed is retracted through cradle1501when cradle1501reaches the left deployment/retraction angle. In one embodiment, all of the walls remain retracted until either cradle1501is rotated past the right deployment/retraction angle, at which time the walls shown inFIGS.20and21are deployed, or cradle1501is rotated back to the left, past the left deployment/retraction angle, at which time the walls shown inFIGS.18and19are deployed. Similarly, as cradle1501is being rotated from the right towards the horizontal reference position, any wall that is deployed is retracted through cradle1501when cradle1501reaches the right deployment/retraction angle. In one embodiment, all of the walls remain retracted until either cradle1501is rotated past the left deployment/retraction angle, at which time the walls shown inFIGS.18and19are deployed, or cradle1501is rotated back to the right, past the right deployment/retraction angle, at which time the walls shown inFIGS.20and21are deployed. In some embodiments, some of the walls remain deployed, no matter what angle cradle1501is rotated to. For example, left leg support wall1510, middle leg support wall1514and right leg support wall1512could remain deployed after the user lays on cradle1501and remain deployed as cradle1501is rotated to various positions by gimbal1518. Or, in another embodiment, one or more of the walls are permanently deployed, i.e., fixed to cradle1501, and are not retractable. For example, middle leg support wall1514could be permanently fixed to cradle1501.

FIG.22is a functional block diagram of one embodiment of electronic components of the body support devices as shown inFIGS.1-7and15-21. Shown inFIG.22is control unit1524, comprising processor2200, memory2202, network interface2204, user interface2206, and power amplifier2208, plus electric motor604, tilt sensor1526, one or more sensors1818(referencing any of sensors1818,1820,1822and/or1824, and/or other sensor(s)) and motors604and844. It should be understood that the functional blocks shown inFIG.22could be arranged in different manners in other embodiments, and that some basic functional blocks have been omitted, such as a power supply, for clarity.

Processor2200is configured to provide general operation of control unit1524by executing processor-executable instructions stored in memory2402, for example, executable code. Processor2200comprises one or more general or special-purpose microprocessors, microcontrollers and/or ASICs, such as any one of a number of Core i-series class microprocessors manufactured by Intel Corporation of Santa Clara, Calif., chosen based on implementation requirements such as power, speed, size and cost.

Memory2202comprises one or more information storage devices, such as RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory, SD memory, XD memory, or virtually any other type of information storage device. Memory2202is used to store the processor-executable instructions for operation of control unit1524as well as any information used by processor2200to perform such operations. Such information may comprise a schedule of times and rotational angles for a sleep session for one or more particular users. In some embodiments, memory2202is incorporated into processor2200, such as the case in embodiments where processor2200comprises a microcontroller or custom ASIC.

Network interface2204is coupled comprises circuitry necessary for control unit to communicate over one or more local and/or wide-area digital networks, such as a home Wi-Fi network and/or the Internet. In one embodiment, network interface2204receives wireless signals from a user's mobile device, such as a smartphone or wearable device. In this embodiment, the user provides instructions to processor2200via an app running on the mobile device, and the mobile device transmits signals for cradle1501to rotate into various angles. The signal is received by network interface2204and provided to processor2200, where the instructions are performed, causing electric motor604and electric motors844to rotate cradle1501and to extend/retract the support walls, respectively. Such circuitry is well known in the art.

Optional user interface2206is coupled to processor2200, allowing users to enter information into control unit1524as well, in some embodiments, to view information provided by control unit1524. For example, a user may manually enter one or more time periods and rotational angles into control unit1524, causing cradle1501to rotate to the desired angles and held in each angle for the time period specified by the user. Settings may be reviewed by users via a display screen. User interface2206may comprise one or more pushbuttons, joysticks, switches, sensors, touchscreens, keypads, keyboards, ports, and/or microphones that generate signals for use by processor2200. User interface2206may additionally comprise one or more seven-segment displays, cathode ray tubes (CRT), liquid crystal displays (LCD), or any other type of visual display for display of information to users. Of course, the aforementioned items could be used alone or in combination with each other and other devices may be alternatively, or additionally, used.

Power amplifier2208is coupled to processor2200, for amplifying control signals from processor2200and providing the amplified signals to electric motor604(the motor responsible for rotating cradle1501) and electric motors844(responsible for extending/retracting at least the torso support walls). Electric motor604is, in some embodiments, incorporated into gimbal1518. Electric motors844represent one motor for each extendable/retractable wall of cradle1501. For example, in the embodiment shown inFIGS.5-7, two electric motors844are used, one for left torso-support assembly510and one for right torso-support assembly508. In the embodiment shown inFIG.17, as many as eleven electric motors844are used, one each to extend/retract right head support wall1502, left head support wall1504, right torso support wall1506, left torso support wall1508, right leg support wall1510, left leg support wall1512, middle leg support wall1514, outer left arm support wall1522, right arm support wall1804, left arm support wall1616and outer right arm support wall1520. Each power amplifier may provide a different power output related to the power needed to extend/retract particular walls. Power amplifier2208typically comprises a series of power transistors and/or relays for amplifying the control signals from processor2200. Power amplifiers are well-known in the art.

Block1818is labeled as “Sensor(s)”, which includes any of sensors1818,1820,1822and/or1824, and/or other sensor(s), coupled to processor2200and comprising one or more sensors, as described previously. The sensors may be used to control rotation of cradle1501or to collect human vital information from a user while the user is using cradle1501, such as heartbeat, temperature, respiratory rate, electroencephalography, etc. In one embodiment, one or more sensors may be located away from body support device1500, such as a motion sensor, temperature sensor, humidity sensor, noise level sensor, or an incontinence sensor, which can turn an HVAC system on or off, or call a caretaker. Sensor1818may further comprise a vibration sensor to detect snoring. In this case, processor2200may initiate rotation of cradle1501upon detection of snoring via the vibration sensor and continue rotation until snoring stops.

The motor(s) and/or drive assemblies are activated when a tilt sensor as part of the support device determines that the support device has been rotated a predetermined rotation angle from the supine position, for example, once the support device has been rotated 5 degrees from the supine position, i.e. at 0 degrees and prior to initiation of rotation of the cradle. In another embodiment, the side walls and/or arm supports are extended/retracted once a user provides an instruction to the support device to rotate the device to a user-defined angle from the supine position. For example, the support device may comprise a hardware controller that is coupled to a control unit, where the controller allows a user to enter commands that are received by the control unit to cause rotation of the support device. When the user enters a command to rotate to an angle greater than a predetermined angle (such as 5 degrees), the control unit causes the side walls/arm supports to extend or retract as described above. In another embodiment, a hardware controller is not used.

FIG.23is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method, performed by control unit1524(or by a personal electronic device such as a mobile phone), for operation of body support device100,500or1500. For purposes of discussion of the method, reference shall be made to body support device1500, although such discussion may equally apply to body support device100and/or500. It should be understood that in some embodiments, not all of the method steps shown inFIG.23are performed, and that the order in which the steps are performed may be different in other embodiments. It should also be understood that the steps described in this method could be applicable to one or all of the embodiments of a body support device as described herein. It should be further understood that while the method is described as a “sleep session” comprising rotation of cradle1501into four particular rotational angles, holding each position for a particular hold time, cradle1501could be rotated into rotational angles different than what is described below, each with the same or different hold times than described, and using fewer or a greater number of rotational angles than the four that are described below. The term “sleep session” defines a series of rotational angles and holding times for a particular time period, such as 8 hours, 4 hours, or even on a continuous basis until canceled, and need not be related to a time period when a user is sleeping.

At block2300, processor2200receives processor-executable instructions for controlling the rotation of cradle1501via network interface2204. In other embodiments, the processor-executable instructions could be received in other ways that are well-known in the art. The processor-executable instructions comprise a series of hold times and associated cradle rotation positions, i.e., angles of rotation and orientation (i.e., left or right rotation, and in embodiments employing vertical rotation, up or down rotation). The processor-executable instructions are stored in memory2202.

In another embodiment, rotational angles and hold times are provided to processor2200via user interface2206. In this embodiment, user interface2206may provide audio or visual cues to a user to enter one or more rotational angles and associated hold times. For example, a user could program body support device1500to first rotate to the left at an angle of 45 degrees and hold that position for 30 minutes, then rotate to the supine position (i.e., the horizontal reference position) for 5 minutes, rotate to the right at an angle of 45 degrees and hold that position for 30 minutes, then return to the supine position. Any number of rotational angle/hold time entries could be permitted.

A user may get into cradle1501using user interface2206, or an app on the user's personal electronic device, such as a mobile phone, to raise cradle1501into a more upright position through activation of linear actuator700, as shown inFIG.7. Once the user is in cradle1501, the cradle1501pivots back to the position shown inFIG.5.

At block2302, processor2200begins executing the processor-executable instructions that cause cradle1501to rotate in accordance with the rotational angles and associated hold times provided at block2300. Typically, a user is lying on cradle1501while cradle1501is in the supine position, and most or all of the walls are retracted behind cradle1501. Then, the user provides an activation signal to processor2200to begin executing the instructions, such as via user interface2206, for example.

At block2304, in one embodiment, before processor2200causes any rotation of cradle1501, processor2200causes at least left torso support wall1508to deploy through cradle1501for supporting the user's torso when cradle1501is rotated to the left. In other embodiments, one or more other walls may also be deployed, such as one or more of left head support wall1504, left leg support wall1512, middle leg support wall1514, outer left arm support wall1522and right arm support wall2004.

At block2306processor2200causes cradle1501to begin rotating to the user's left side, in accordance with the processor-executable instructions, by energizing electric motor844to rotate in a first direction.

At block2308, in an embodiment where all of the walls of body support device1500are still retracted behind cradle1501after cradle1501begins rotating, processor2200causes at least left torso support wall1508to deploy through cradle1501when processor2200determines that cradle1501has been rotated to, or past, a left deployment/retraction angle. Processor2200determines that cradle has been rotated to, or past, the left deployment/retraction angle by receiving one or more signals from one or more sensors1818(such as a tilt sensor), from an encoder that counts motor/gear rotations, or some other well-known rotational determination device(s). In another embodiment, processor2200determines the amount of rotation simply be knowing the angular rotational speed delivered to cradle1501by electric motor604, and tracking the elapsed time from when electric motor604was energized or by a stepper motor that delivers a predetermined amount of steps. When cradle1501has been rotated to, or past, a left deployment/retraction angle, one or more other walls may also be deployed, such as one or more of left head support wall1504, left leg support wall1512, middle leg support wall1514, outer left arm support wall1522and right arm support wall2004.

At block2310, processor2200causes cradle1501to stop rotating to the left when cradle1501has been rotated to a first programmed angle, in this example, 40 degrees to the left. Processor2200determines the rotational angle of cradle1501using techniques discussed above.

At block2312, processor2200holds cradle1501at 40 degrees for a hold time associated with the rotational angle of 40 degrees, as provided by the processor-executable instructions. In this example, the hold time is 1 hour. Thus, the user is held at a rotational angle of 40 degrees from the supine position, to the user's left, with one or more side walls supporting the user's torso, head, legs and/or right arm. This position is held for 1 hour. In one embodiment, a hold time can be defined as a very short duration, such as 0-2 seconds, where cradle1501is rotated to one position and quickly then rotated to another position. In one embodiment, cradle1501could be rotated to two angles, for example, a right rotational angle of 20 degrees and a left rotational angle of 20 degrees, each with a hold time of zero seconds, resulting in cradle1501“rocking” back and forth between the two angles, reversing course instantly as cradle1501reaches each rotational angle.

At block2314, processor2200determines that the hold time has expired.

At block2316, processor2200begins rotating cradle1501to a second rotational angle as directed by the processor-executable instructions. In this example, the second rotational angle is 65 degrees to the user's left, even further from the supine position.

At block2318, processor2200stops the rotation when cradle1501has reached 65 degrees. In one embodiment, any wall(s) that was/were deployed through cradle1501generally remains that way. In another embodiment, a second left deployment/retraction angle may be defined that causes one or more additional walls to be deployed once cradle1501reaches an “extreme” rotational angle, to better support the user in these extreme rotational angles. For example, when cradle1501is rotated to the left past 5 degrees past from the supine position to the left (the first left deployment/retraction angle), processor200may cause left torso support wall1508and left head support wall1504to deploy, and no others. As cradle1501continues to rotate to the left, past, say, 25 degrees (the second left deployment/retraction angle), processor2200may cause left leg support wall1512and middle leg support wall1514to deploy, thus supporting the user's legs. Other deployment/retraction angles may be defined as well, causing particular walls, e.g.2004and1816, to deploy and retract.

At block2322, processor2200holds cradle1501at 65 degrees for a hold time associated with this angle, in this example, for 30 minutes. It should be understood that at some other time during this method, cradle1501could be rotated back to the 65 degree position and be held for a different amount of time other than 30 minutes.

At block2324, after expiration of the 30 minute hold time, processor2200causes cradle1501to begin rotating towards the supine position, and past the supine position to a third rotational angle, in this case a right rotational angle of 40 degrees, in accordance with the processor-executable instructions, by energizing electric motor604to rotate in a second direction.

At block2326, in one embodiment, as cradle1501is rotated to, or past, the second left deployment/retraction angle, processor2200may retract one or more walls that had previously been deployed at the second left deployment/retraction angle. Continuing the example from above, when cradle1501reaches the 25 degree rotational position, being rotated towards the supine position, processor2200causes left leg support wall1512and middle leg support wall1514to retract behind cradle1501.

At block2326, when cradle1501reaches the first left deployment/retraction angle, or a predefined retraction angle different from the first left deployment/retraction angle (in this case, both a left deployment and a left retraction angle are defined), processor2200may retract one or more walls that had previously been deployed at the first left deployment/retraction angle. For example, a first left deployment angle may have been predefined as 5 degrees and a retraction angle may be defined as 3 degrees of a left rotation from the supine position, or even the supine position itself (i.e., zero degrees). Continuing the example from above, when cradle1501reaches the 5 degree rotational angle left of the supine position, being rotated towards the supine position, processor2200causes left head support wall1504, left leg support wall1512, middle leg support wall1514, outer left arm support wall1522and right arm support wall2004to retract behind cradle1501.

At block2328, in one embodiment, when cradle1501reaches the supine position on its way to the third rotational angle, processor2200causes at least right torso support wall1506to deploy through cradle1501. In another embodiment, at least right torso support wall1506is deployed as cradle1501reaches a first right deployment/retraction angle, such as between zero and about 10 degrees. When cradle1501has been rotated to, or past, the supine position or a left deployment/retraction angle, one or more other walls may also be deployed, such as one or more of left head support wall1504, left leg support wall1512, middle leg support wall1514, outer left arm support wall1522and right arm support wall2004.

At block2330, processor2200stops rotating cradle1501once cradle1501has reached the third rotational angle of, for example, 40 degrees to the user's right, in accordance with the processor-executable instructions.

At block2332, processor2200holds cradle1501at 40 degrees for a hold time associated with this angle, in this example, for 50 minutes. It should be understood that at some other time during this method, cradle1501could be rotated back to the 40 degree position and be held for a different amount of time other than 50 minutes.

At block2334, after expiration of the 50 minute hold time, processor2200causes cradle1501to begin rotating towards the supine position, the last of the four rotational angles defined by the processor-executable instructions in this example. As mentioned previously, the processor-executable instructions could define fewer, or a greater number of rotational angles during a sleep session.

At block2336, when cradle1501reaches the first right deployment/retraction angle, or a predefined retraction angle different from the first right deployment/retraction angle (in this case, both a deployment and a retraction angle are defined), processor2200may retract one or more walls that had previously been deployed at the first right deployment/retraction angle (or the supine position while cradle1501was being rotated toward the third rotational angle). For example, a first right deployment angle may have been predefined as 5 degrees and a retraction angle may be defined as 3 degrees of a right rotation from the left of the supine position, or even the supine position itself (i.e., zero degrees). Continuing the example from above, when cradle1501reaches 3 degrees from the supine position as cradle1501is being rotated towards the supine position, processor2200causes right torso support wall1506and right head support wall1502to retract behind cradle1501.

At block2338, when cradle1501reaches the supine position, processor2200stops further rotation of cradle1501, and the sleep session is terminated.

FIG.24is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method, performed by control unit1524(or by a personal electronic device such as a mobile phone), for operation of body support device100,500or1500using one or more sensors2218. In this example, reference will be made to torso sensors1822(right torso sensor) and1824(left torso sensor). For purposes of discussion of the method, reference shall be made to body support device1500, although such discussion may equally apply to body support device100and/or500. It should be understood that in some embodiments, not all of the method steps shown inFIG.24are performed, and that the order in which the steps are performed may be different in other embodiments. It should also be understood that the steps described in this method could be applicable to one or all of the embodiments of a body support device as described herein. It should be further understood that although the method is described in connection with two pressure sensors, the method is not limited to the number and type of sensors.

At block2400, cradle1501is in the supine position, and a user lays down on cradle1501. In another embodiment, the user may get into cradle1501using user interface2206, or an app on the user's personal electronic device, such as a mobile phone, to raise cradle1501into a more upright position, as shown inFIG.7. Once the user is in cradle1501, the cradle1501pivots back to the position shown inFIG.5.

At block2402, processor2200may receive an indication from the user that the user is laying on cradle1501. The indication may be provided manually via user interface2206, via a user's personal communication device, such as mobile phone, wearable device, etc., or automatically via a sensor embedded into cradle1501. The indication may be used by processor2200to begin a timer to track the time that the user is laying in cradle1501.

At block2404, processor2200may receive a signal from left torso sensor1824, indicating that the user has shifted his body to influence left torso sensor1824. For example, if left torso sensor1824is a pressure sensor, left torso sensor1824will send a signal to processor2200when it detects an increased pressure against it due to the user positioning his or her body against left torso sensor1824, for example, when the user begins to roll to his or her left. In another embodiment, left torso sensor1824provides a continuous signal to processor2200, such as presenting a resistance, voltage, current or some other measurable parameter that changes in response to pressure applied to left torso sensor1824.

At block2406, as the user begins to roll to the left, any pressure detected by right torso sensor1822may decrease, as the user's body is in less/no contact with right torso1822sensor. In this case, right torso sensor1822may report a decreased pressure to processor2200. The combination of increased pressure from left torso sensor1824and a decreased pressure from right torso sensor1822may confirm to processor2200that the user wishes to lay on his or her left side, or wants cradle1501to rotate to the user's left side. User's movements resulting in weight shift and sensor activation could be either intentional (when a user is awake) or unconscious (when a user is asleep).

At block2408, in one embodiment, in response to the signal(s) received from left torso sensor1824and, in some embodiments, right torso sensor1822, indicating that the user wishes to lay on his or her left side, and before processor2200causes any rotation of cradle1501, processor2200causes at least left torso support wall1508to deploy through cradle1501. In other embodiments, one or more other walls may also be deployed, such as one or more of left head support wall1504, left leg support wall1512, middle leg support wall1514, outer left arm support wall1522and right arm support wall2004.

At block2410processor2200causes cradle1501to begin rotating to the user's left side by energizing electric motor604to rotate in a first direction.

At block2412, in an embodiment where all of the walls of body support device1500are still retracted behind cradle1501after cradle1501begins rotating, processor2200causes at least left torso support wall1508to deploy through cradle1501when processor2200determines that cradle1501has been rotated to, or past, a left deployment/retraction angle. Processor2200determines that cradle has been rotated to, or past, the left deployment/retraction angle as described earlier herein. When cradle1501has been rotated to, or past, a left deployment/retraction angle, one or more other walls may also be deployed, such as one or more of left head support wall1504, left leg support wall1512, middle leg support wall1514, outer left arm support wall1522and right arm support wall2004.

At block2414, processor2200causes cradle1501to stop rotating to the left when cradle1501has been rotated to a first programmed angle, in this example, 25 degrees to the left.

At block2416, processor2200begins a timer to determine how long the user is held in this position. The time is used in connection with a number of rotational positions and respective hold times, sometimes referred to herein as “target values”, as follows.

A variety of target values are pre-defined and stored in memory2202for use with the processor-executable instructions. The target values may comprise a number of associated rotational angles and desired times that the user should be held is each position. Other target values may comprise a desired total sleep time, i.e., a desired total time that the user should spend in cradle1501each day or night and a desired total time spent at any particular rotational angle and in some embodiments, an inclination angle.

For example, the following target values could be pre-defined and stored in memory2200:

Total Target Sleep Time—The desired total time that the user should spend in cradle1501during each sleep/rest/therapy session.

Total Target Left Rotation Time—The total time during a session that the user should spend rotated to the left. In some embodiments, a number of such times are defined, each one defining a particular angle and a desired time to hold the user in a particular angle. For example, two Total Target Left Rotation Times could be defined: 25 degrees for 2 hours and 65 degrees for 3 hours.

Total Target Right Rotation Time—The total time during a session that the user should spend rotated to the right.

Total Target Supine Time—The total time during a session that the user should spend in supine position.

Minimum/Maximum Lap Times—The minimum and/or maximum time that a user should spend at a particular rotational angle.

As an example, the Total Target Sleep Time could be set to 8 hours, the Total Target Left Rotation Time could be set to 2 hours, the Total Target Right Rotation Time could be set to 4 hours, and the Total Target Supine Time could be set to 2 hours. A Minimum Lap Time could be defined as 10 minutes and a Maximum Lap Time could be defined as 30 minutes. The remaining discussion will assume that only three rotational angles will be defined (one left rotational angle of 25 degrees, one right rotational angle of 45 degrees, and the supine position, i.e., zero degrees), and each rotational angle will have the same Minimum and Maximum Lap Times. In other embodiments, a greater number of rotational angles may be defined, each having its own Minimum and Maximum Lap Times that may be different from each other. The parameters may be selected based on specific conditions of a user. E.g. for certain conditions of digestive tract sleeping on the left side may be maximized, whereas for cardio-vascular conditions the right side sleep may be maximized to achieve therapeutic effect.

Returning to the method, at block2418, processor holds cradle1501at 25 degrees left rotation while the timer tracks the elapsed time spent at this angle.

At block2420, the user may attempt to roll over on cradle1501to the right, in an effort to sleep on the user's right side. Sensor1824and/or sensor1822provide an indication(s) to processor2200of such user movement.

At block2422, in response to receiving the indications(s) from the sensor(s), processor2200determines whether or not to rotate cradle1501, or to ignore the signal(s) by determining whether one or more desired target values have been achieved before rotating cradle1501to the right. For example, if cradle1501has been held at the 25 degree angle for at least 10 minutes, processor2200may cause cradle1501to rotate either back to the supine position, or to a left-rotated angle of 65 degrees. If cradle1501has not been held at the 25 degree angle for at least 10 minutes, processor2200may ignore the signal(s) from the sensor(s) and keep cradle1501at the same left-rotational angle of 25 degrees. In one embodiment, processor2200notifies the user when processor2200ignores the signal(s), such as providing an audible or visual indication to the user via user interface2206.

In another embodiment, processor2200performs two or more comparisons of the elapsed time spent in any rotational angle to two or more target values in order to determine whether to allow rotation of cradle1501or not, in order to achieve one or more of the target values. For example, after the user has been using body support device1500for 5 hours of an 8 hour Total Target Sleep Time, cradle1501may have spent 2 hours in the left rotational angle, 1 hour in the right rotational angle, and 2 hours in the supine position. For illustrative purposes, it will be assumed that cradle1501is in the left rotational angle and that cradle1501has been in this position for 29 minutes. If the Total Target Left Rotation Time is 3 hours, the Total Target Right Rotation Time is 2 hours, and the Total Target Supine Time is 3 hours, processor2200may check not only whether the Minimum Left Lap Time has been met, but also whether the Total Target Right Rotation Time has been met. In this case, when the user rolls to his or her right in a desire to lay on his or her right side, processor2200determines that the Minimum Left Lap Time has been met, but that the Total Target Right Rotation Time has also been met. As a result, processor2200ignores the signal(s) from the sensor(s) to rotate cradle1501to the right. In one embodiment, processor2200does rotate cradle1501to the right, even when the Total Target Right Rotation Time has been met, but rotates cradle1501only to the supine position, provided that the Total Target Supine Time has not been reached.

At block2424, processor2200either rotates cradle1501to the right, or ignores the signal(s) from the sensor(s), based on the determination performed at block2322. If cradle1501is rotated to the right, one or more walls are retracted and/or deployed, as described elsewhere herein.

At block2426, if processor2200rotates cradle1501to the right, processor2200adds the elapsed time that the user was at the 25 degree rotational angle to a Total Actual Sleep Time register stored in memory2202and to a Total Actual Left Rotation Time register, also stored in memory2202. As cradle1501is moved into the three rotational angles, in this example, processor2200updates these registers, as well as a Total Actual Right Rotation Time, to track the amount of time that the user spends in each of the three rotational angles during a sleep/rest/therapy session.

At block2428, if no signal(s) is/are received from the sensor(s), processor2200determines that cradle1501has been in the left rotational angle for a Maximum Left Lap Time of, in this example, 30 minutes.

At block2430, processor2200determines which of the two remaining rotational angles, either supine or left, to rotate cradle501. Processor2200makes this determination, in one embodiment, based on the Total Actual Right Rotation Time and the Total Actual Supine Time stored in respective registers in memory2202vs Total Target times for these positions. In this embodiment, processor2200rotates cradle1501to the rotational angle that is most in need of meeting a respective Total Target Rotation Time. For example, if the Total Actual Right Rotation Time is 2 hours, the Total Actual Supine Time is 2 hours, the Total Target Right Rotation Time is 3 hours, and the Target Supine Time is 2½ hours, processor2200rotates cradle1501to the right rotational angle, because the time needed to achieve the Target Right Rotation Time is 1 hour, while the time needed to achieve the Target Supine Time is ½ an hour. Thus, more time is needed in the right rotational angle to achieve the Total Target Right Rotation Time than is needed to achieve the Total Target Supine Time.

In another embodiment, processor2200determines which of the two remaining rotational angles, either supine or left, to rotate cradle501, based not only on the Total Actual Right Rotation Time and the Total Actual Supine Time, but based on a pre-determined Partial Target Time defined for each of the right, left and supine positions for the most recent 2 hours. This achieves a more balanced positioning and may be particularly desirable for treatment of bed sores or for managing burn victims. For example, a Left Partial Target Time could be defined as 40-50 minutes in the past 2 hours, and a Supine Partial Target Time could be defined as 15-25 minutes in the past 2 hours, and Right Partial Target Time 45-55 minutes in the past 2 hours, each of these times decreased by processor2200as cradle1501is positioned into the right and supine positions, respectively. Processor2200determines where to rotate cradle1501by comparing time accrued in each position in the past 2 hours.

At block2432, processor2200rotates cradle1501into either the supine position or a right rotational angle.

At block2434, processor2200continues to process signal(s) from the sensor(s), and to reposition cradle1501when any Maximum Lap Time has been exceeded.

At block2436, processor2200determines that the Total Target Sleep Time has been achieved, indicating that the current sleep/rest/therapy session is complete.

At block2438, in response to determining that the Total Target Sleep Time has been achieved, processor2200returns cradle1501to the supine position, retracting some or all of any deployed walls, so that the user may easily get up from body support device1500.

FIG.25and the followingFIGS.26-30illustrate another embodiment of a side wall assembly2500for a torso support having a side wall similar to side wall802shown inFIGS.8-13. In this embodiment, left side wall2502is connected to end cap2504and support rods2506in the same manner as shown above using a resin based structure1310. In this embodiment, the torso support wall2502, when fully deployed, assumes the same position as shown inFIG.8,10or13For as part104ofFIGS.1and3. However, the retraction of the side wall2502with end cap2504and support rods2506and rollers2508works differently. Rather than retracting the side wall through an opening516in the cradle and behind the cradle, side wall2502slides down under a user's waist and, when in a retracted position, remains next to a left hip portion of the cradle and a user's left palm. The details of a retraction mechanism are not shown for clarity but it should be understood that a mechanism employing a linear actuator or a rack and pinion shown in the examples above can be connected to end cap2504or supporting rods2506or other members of linkage to move side wall2502. InFIG.25, Left side wall2502is viewed from the hip/waist direction. The lower end of side wall2502follows the shape of a waist line is seen. The left image shows wall2502in a deployed state as it is positioned to be in contact with a user's torso. The right image shows the wall2502in a retracted state, slightly away from the user's body and the cradle. Guiderails2510are placed at an angle of approximately 10 degrees to provide the tilt and move the support wall2502slightly away from the cradle is it retracts below the user's waist.

FIG.26shows the left side wall assembly2500ofFIG.25at a different angle. Left side wall2502is viewed here from the head direction. The curved side of side wall2502follows the shape of an athletic figure with recesses for latissimus dorsi and pectoral muscles are seen. The left image shows wall2502in a deployed state in which it contacts a user's torso. The right image shows wall2502in a retracted state, slightly away from the user's body and the cradle. Guiderails2510are placed at an angle of approximately 10 degrees to provide tilt and move the support wall2502slightly away from the cradle is it retracts below the user's waist.

FIG.27shows the left side wall assembly2500ofFIG.25at yet another angle. Left side wall2502's surface contacts the user's torso is shown. The left image shows wall2502in a deployed state as it contacts the user's torso. The right image shows wall2502in a retracted state. Guiderails2510are placed under an angle of approximately 10 degrees to provide tilt and move support wall2502slightly away from the cradle is it retracts below the waist.

FIG.28shows the left side wall assembly2500ofFIG.25at yet another viewing angle. Left side wall2502contacts user's an inner surface of a user's left arm is shown in this view. The left image shows wall2502in a deployed state as it contact's the user's torso. The right image shows wall2502in a retracted state. Guiderails2510are placed at an angle of approximately 10 degrees to provide tilt and move support wall2502slightly away from the cradle is it retracts below the user's waist.

FIG.29shows the left side wall assembly2500ofFIG.25in yet another viewing angle. Left side wall2502, in this figure, is shown viewed from above a user's torso. The top image shows wall2502in a deployed state as it contacts the user's torso. The bottom image shows wall2502in a retracted state slightly away from the user's body and the cradle as it retracts below the user's waist.

FIG.30shows the left side wall assembly2500ofFIG.25in yet another viewing angle. Here, left side wall2502is viewed from under a user's torso. The top image shows wall2502in a deployed state as it contacts the user's torso. The bottom image shows wall2502in a retracted state slightly away from the user's body and the cradle as it retracts below the user's waist.

FIG.31is another embodiment of a left side wall assembly2500for torso support that retracts on the side and below a user's waist, comprising some of the same components as the previous embodiment, but arranged differently. The embodiment is similar to the one described inFIGS.25-30but has simplified guide rails2510not providing tilt and simplified rollers2508. This type of guide groove may be better suited for bariatric patients. Left side wall2502contacts a user's torso when in a deployed position, as previously. The left image shows wall2502in a deployed state as it contacts the user's torso. The right image shows wall2502in a retracted state. It should be understood that the two ways to retract and deploy side walls shown inFIGS.8-13and25-31and corresponding mechanisms are just examples and other retraction paths and mechanical means can be devised following these examples and accommodating for different body types, cradles, and user preferences.

Although specific advantages have been enumerated above, various embodiments may include some, none, or all of the enumerated advantages.

Other technical advantages may become readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after review of the following figures and description.