Patent Publication Number: US-11642269-B2

Title: Person support apparatuses for subject repositioning

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     The present application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/349,680, entitled “Person Support Apparatuses for Subject Repositioning” and filed Nov. 11, 2016, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/254,991, filed Nov. 13, 2015 and entitled “Person Support Apparatuses For Subject Repositioning,” the entire contents of both are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Field 
     The present specification generally relates to person support apparatuses and, more specifically, to person support apparatuses including subject repositioning assemblies. 
     Technical Background 
     In some medical situations it may be necessary to reposition a subject between various positions. For example, a surgical procedure may require that a subject is initially oriented in a prone position and may subsequently require that the subject be repositioned to lie on his or her side, or vice versa. Alternatively, it may be desirable to orient and retain the subject in a particular position in order to facilitate a medical procedure. A common technique in conventional practice is to summon as many colleagues as practical to lift and maneuver the subject between the various positions. The risk of mishandling the subject makes this technique undesirable. Furthermore, such techniques may not result in the subject being retained in the desired position. 
     Accordingly, a need exists for alternative person support apparatuses that include person repositioning assemblies. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one embodiment, a person support apparatus includes a base frame, a longitudinal frame coupled to the base frame and extending in a longitudinal direction, and a support deck supported on the longitudinal frame. The support deck is adjustable from a planar configuration to a concave configuration or a convex configuration. 
     In another embodiment, a support pad apparatus includes a base frame, a longitudinal frame supported by the base frame and extending in a longitudinal direction, and a support pad assembly supported on the longitudinal frame. The support pad assembly includes one or more clamps that couple to the person support apparatus, where each clamp includes at least one actuator. The support pad assembly further includes a support pad coupled to the at least one actuator. The at least one actuator raises and lowers the support pad with respect to the longitudinal frame. 
     In yet another embodiment, a person support apparatus includes a base frame, a longitudinal frame supported by the base frame, a plurality of support pads supported on the longitudinal frame, and a means for adjusting a position of at least one of the plurality of support pads relative to the longitudinal frame. The longitudinal frame extends in a longitudinal direction. 
     In yet another embodiment, a support pad assembly for a person support apparatus includes one or more clamps that couple to the person support apparatus, where each one of the one or more clamps includes at least one actuator. The support pad assembly further includes a support pad coupled to the at least one actuator. The at least one actuator changes a position of the support pad relative to the plurality of clamps. 
     In yet another embodiment, a person support apparatus includes a base frame, a plurality of bladders supported by the base frame, a fluid source coupled to each one of the plurality of bladders, and an electronic controller communicatively coupled to the fluid source. The electronic controller includes a processor and a non-transitory memory storing computer readable and executable instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to receive one or more inputs corresponding to at least one of a desired subject positioning and a desired pressure to be placed on at least a portion of a subject&#39;s body, determine a pressure for each of the plurality of bladders that corresponds to the received one or more inputs, and direct a fluid from the fluid source to be added to or removed from each one of the plurality of bladders based upon the determined pressure. 
     In yet another embodiment, a person support apparatus includes a base frame and a plurality of bladders arranged in a layered configuration and supported by the base frame. The fluid pressure of each one of the plurality of bladders is adjustable. 
     Additional features and advantages of the embodiments described herein will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the embodiments described herein, including the detailed description which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings. 
     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description describe various embodiments and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claimed subject matter. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the various embodiments, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate the various embodiments described herein, and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operations of the claimed subject matter. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1 A  schematically depicts a person support apparatus having a support deck with a plurality of support pads according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  1 B  schematically depicts a person support apparatus having a support deck with inflatable bladders according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  2 A  schematically depicts a first side view of the illustrative person support apparatus of  FIG.  1 A  according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  2 B  schematically depicts a second side view of the illustrative person support apparatus of  FIG.  1 A  according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  3    schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an illustrative person support apparatus according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  4 A  schematically depicts a cross-sectional view taken on lines H-H of  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B  according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  4 B  schematically depicts a detailed view of an illustrative track mechanism on a support deck according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  4 C  schematically depicts an alternative cross-sectional view taken on lines H-H of  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B  according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  5 A  schematically depicts an illustrative clamp according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  5 B  schematically depicts another illustrative clamp according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  5 C  schematically depicts yet another illustrative clamp according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  6 A  schematically depicts movement of an illustrative person support apparatus having various support pad heights according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  6 B  schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an illustrative person support apparatus with a portion of a support pad raised according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  7    schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of another illustrative person support apparatus with a portion of a support pad raised according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  8    schematically depicts a side view of an illustrative person support apparatus with raised support pads according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  9    schematically depicts an illustrative user interface to control the actuation of the individual support pad assemblies according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  10    schematically depicts another illustrative user interface to control the actuation of the individual support pad assemblies according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  11    schematically depicts a block diagram of various illustrative components of a person support apparatus according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  12 A- 1    schematically depicts a detailed perspective view of a position of a plurality of support pads according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  12 A- 2    schematically depicts a detailed cross-sectional view of the position of the plurality of support pads in  FIG.  12 A- 1    according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  12 B- 1    schematically depicts a detailed perspective view of another position of a plurality of support pads according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  12 B- 2    schematically depicts a detailed cross-sectional view of the position of the plurality of support pads in  FIG.  12 B- 1    according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  12 C- 1    schematically depicts a detailed perspective view of yet another position of a plurality of support pads according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  12 C- 2    schematically depicts a detailed cross-sectional view of the position of the plurality of support pads in  FIG.  12 C- 1    according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  12 D- 1    schematically depicts a detailed perspective view of yet another position of a plurality of support pads according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  12 D- 2    schematically depicts a detailed cross-sectional view of the position of the plurality of support pads in  FIG.  12 D- 1    according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  13 A  schematically depicts a first side view of the illustrative person support apparatus of  FIG.  1 B  according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  13 B  schematically depicts a second side view of the illustrative person support apparatus of  FIG.  1 B  according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  14    schematically depicts a block diagram of illustrative fluid connectivity between a bladder and a manifold according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  15 A  schematically depicts a block diagram of illustrative fluid connectivity between various components of the person support apparatus of  FIG.  1 B  according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  15 B  schematically depicts a block diagram of illustrative communicative connectivity between various components of the person support apparatus of  FIG.  1 B  according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  16    schematically depicts an illustrative user interface of an electronic controller according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  17    schematically depicts a side view of an illustrative person support apparatus with a support deck having a plurality of expanded bladders according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  18 A  schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an illustrative support deck having a plurality of uninflated bladders according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; 
         FIG.  18 B  schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of an illustrative support deck having a plurality of fully inflated bladders according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein; and 
         FIG.  19    schematically depicts a flow diagram of an illustrative method of determining pressure in a plurality of bladders and adjusting the pressure according to one or more embodiments shown or described herein. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of person support apparatuses that include person repositioning assemblies, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. Embodiments of a person support apparatus are depicted in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B . The person support apparatus generally includes a base frame and a primary support frame supported on the base frame, where the primary support frame extends in a longitudinal direction. The person support apparatus further includes a support deck coupled to the primary support frame. The support deck includes either one or more support pad assemblies comprising a support pad supported by the primary support frame ( FIG.  1 A ) or a plurality of bladders supported by the primary support frame ( FIG.  1 B ). In embodiments where the support deck includes one or more support pad assemblies, the support pad can be raised and lowered via one or more actuators coupled between the support pad and the primary support frame, where the one or more actuators allow the support pad to be adjusted to varying heights with respect to each other, and further allow various sections of the support pad to adjust to varying heights with respect to other sections of the same support pad. In embodiments where the support deck includes a plurality of bladders, the bladders may be arranged in a stacked or layered configuration. In addition, each one of the plurality of bladders are adjustable (e.g., individually inflatable or deflatable to a particular pressure). Inflation and deflation of each of the bladders allows the support deck to be adjusted to varying heights to facilitate positioning a of subject to a desired position. Various embodiments of person support apparatuses will be described herein with specific reference to the appended drawings. 
     The person support apparatuses described herein allow for a subject situated thereon to be moved, adjusted, and/or positioned without requiring a user (such as operating room personnel) to breach the sterile field to complete the movements, adjustments, and/or positions or to potentially mishandle the subject. Rather, the person support apparatuses described herein may be electronically controlled to complete the movements, adjustments, and/or positions that are necessary. In addition, use of such an electronic controller may result in a more accurate and repeatable positioning of the subject. 
     As used herein, the term “longitudinal direction” refers to the forward-rearward direction of the person support apparatus (i.e., in the +/−X-directions of the coordinate axes depicted). The term “lateral direction” refers to the cross-direction of the person support apparatus (i.e., in the +/−Y-directions of the coordinate axes depicted), and is transverse to the longitudinal direction. The term “vertical direction” refers to the upward-downward direction of the person support apparatus (i.e., in the +/−Z-directions of the coordinate axes depicted), and is transverse to the lateral and the longitudinal directions. The terms “head end” and “foot end” refer to the relative location of components of the person support apparatus in the longitudinal direction. 
     The phrase “communicatively coupled” is used herein to describe the interconnectivity of various components of the person support apparatus and means that the components are connected either through wires, optical fibers, or wirelessly such that electrical, optical, and/or electromagnetic signals may be exchanged between the components. 
     A “fluid” as used herein generally refers to any fluid that can be pumped, compressed, and/or decompressed to inflate or deflate one or more bladders. While the present disclosure relates generally to gaseous fluids such as air, it should be understood that any fluid may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , a person support apparatus  100  is depicted. The person support apparatus  100  may be, for example, a two-column operating table. The person support apparatus  100  generally includes a base frame  110 , a longitudinal frame  130  supported on the base frame  110 , and a primary support frame  120  coupled to the longitudinal frame  130 . The primary support frame  120  may generally support a support deck  170  thereon. In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  1 A , the support deck  170  may include one or more support pad assemblies  140 , each support pad assembly  140  having a support pad  141  coupled to the longitudinal frame  130 . In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  1 B , a support deck  170 ′ may include a plurality of bladders  171  supported by the longitudinal frame  130 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , the base frame  110  of either person support apparatus  100 ,  100 ′ includes a head portion  114  positioned at a head end H of the person support apparatus  100 ,  100 ′ and a foot portion  116  positioned at a foot end F of the person support apparatus  100 ,  100 ′. The head portion  114  and the foot portion  116  are spaced apart from one another in a longitudinal direction (i.e., generally along the X axis) and may be coupled to one another by a central portion  118  that extends between the head portion  114  and the foot portion  116  in the longitudinal direction. The central portion  118  may be extendable and retractable in the longitudinal direction, thereby increasing or decreasing the distance between the head portion  114  and the foot portion  116  in the longitudinal direction. In some embodiments, the head portion  114  and the foot portion  116  each have a plurality of casters  112  coupled thereto, such that the person support apparatus  100 ,  100 ′ may be moved along a surface, such as a floor. 
     The primary support frame  120  extends upward in a vertical direction (i.e., generally along the Z axis) from the base frame  110  of the person support apparatus  100 ,  100 ′. In the embodiments depicted in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , the primary support frame  120  includes a head column  122  that extends upward from the head portion  114  of the base frame  110  in the vertical direction. The primary support frame  120  further includes a foot column  124  that extends upward from the foot portion  116  of the base frame  110  in the vertical direction. Accordingly, it should be understood that the head column  122  is generally positioned proximate the head end H of the person support apparatus  100 ,  100 ′ and the foot column  124  is generally positioned proximate the foot end F of the person support apparatus  100 ,  100 ′. The head column  122  is spaced apart from the foot column  124  in the longitudinal direction by the central portion  118 . In some embodiments, the head column  122  and the foot column  124  are coupled to the head portion  114  and the foot portion  116  of the base frame  110 , respectively. Alternatively, the head column  122  and the foot column  124  may be integrated with the head portion  114  and the foot portion  116  of the base frame  110 , respectively. The head column  122  and the foot column  124  may be actuated to raise and lower the head column  122  and the foot column  124  in the +/−Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , as will be described in further detail herein. 
     The primary support frame  120  includes a longitudinal frame  130  that is positioned above the base frame  110  in the vertical direction and that extends between the head column  122  and the foot column  124  in the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal frame  130  is coupled to the head column  122  and the foot column  124  such that the longitudinal frame  130  may be raised, lowered, and/or tilted with respect to the base frame  110  upon actuation of the head column  122  and the foot column  124 . In the embodiments depicted in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , the longitudinal frame  130  generally extends in the horizontal plane (i.e., the X-Y plane as depicted). However, it should be understood that the longitudinal frame  130  may be tilted with respect to the X-Y plane (i.e., about an axis of rotation generally parallel to the Y-axis in the coordinate axes depicted in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B ) or rotated with respect to the X-Y plane (i.e., about an axis of rotation generally parallel to the X-axis in the coordinate axes depicted in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B ). While  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B  generally depict the longitudinal frame as being substantially planar, in other embodiments, the longitudinal frame  130  may be contoured and may include portions that extend out of the horizontal plane. In some embodiments, the longitudinal frame  130  may include a first side rail  132  and a second side rail  134 , where the first side rail  132  and the second side rail  134  extend substantially parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction between the head column  122  and the foot column  124 . The first side rail  132  and the second side rail  134  may be coupled to the head column  122  and the foot column  124 , respectively, by a head support piece  136  and a foot support piece  138 . The head support piece  136  may be coupled between the head column  122  and the first and second side rails  132 ,  134 . In embodiments, the head support piece  136  and the foot support piece  138  may be pivotable with respect to the head column  122  and the foot column  124  about an axis of rotation that is generally parallel to the X-axis in the coordinate axes depicted in  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B . The foot support piece  138  may be coupled between the foot column  124  and the first and second side rails  132 ,  134 . As depicted in  FIGS.  2 A- 2 B , in some embodiments, the longitudinal frame  130  supports and may be coupled to the support deck  170 , which includes the one or more support pad assemblies  140 , each of which extends a distance in the longitudinal direction between the head column  122  and the foot column  124  and extends a distance in the lateral direction. Alternatively, as depicted in  FIGS.  13 A- 13 B , the longitudinal frame  130  supports and may be coupled to the support deck  170 ′, which extends a distance between the head column  122  and the foot column  124  in the longitudinal direction. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  3   , in some embodiments, the longitudinal frame  130 , particularly the first side rail  132  and the second side rail  134 , may each include one or more quick disconnect slots  190  formed therein. The quick disconnect slots  190  allow for accessories to be attached to the longitudinal frame  130 . In embodiments where the accessories require electrical power, the quick disconnect slots  190  may also provide power to the accessories through the longitudinal frame  130 . More specifically, the quick disconnect slots  190  may include electrical connections integrated with the side rails  132 ,  134  of the longitudinal frame  130 . The electrical connections may be electrically coupled to a power source which, in the embodiments described herein, is an actuator control unit  160  (depicted in  FIG.  1 A ). In embodiments, the quick disconnect slots  190  include a channel formed in the side rails  132 ,  134  and an electrical connector either affixed to the side rails  132 ,  134  within the channel or affixed on the interior of the side rails  132 ,  134  adjacent to the channel. The quick disconnect slots  190  allow for an electrical or an electronic connection between the actuator control unit  160  and an accessory that is attached to the quick disconnect slot  190 , such as, for example, an actuator coupled to the clamp  152 ,  154 . In embodiments where the accessories are pneumatically or hydraulically actuated, the quick disconnect slots  190  may contain pneumatic or hydraulic lines that can be coupled to the accessories when the accessories are engaged with the quick disconnect slots  190 . In these embodiments, the quick disconnect slots  190  may include a fluid coupling which permits a pneumatically or hydraulically actuated accessory, such as an actuator or the like, to be fluidly coupled to a pneumatic or hydraulic line. 
     In some embodiments, a plurality of the quick disconnect slots  190  may be spaced at particular locations along the length of each side rail  132 ,  134 . In some embodiments, the quick disconnect slots  190  may be spaced in pairs such that a first quick disconnect slot  190  is positioned in a first location on the first side rail  132  and a second quick disconnect slot  190  is positioned in a second location on the second side rail  134 , where the first and second locations are parallel and opposing each other at an equal distance from the head column  122  and the foot column  124 . 
     While  FIG.  3    schematically depicts the quick disconnect slots  190  as being disposed on the top of each side rail  132 ,  134 , it should be understood that other configurations are contemplated and possible. For example, the quick disconnect slots  190  may be disposed along the sides of the side rails  132 ,  134  or even on a bottom of the side rails  132 ,  134 . In some embodiments, the side rails  132 ,  134  may have quick disconnect slots on each surface thereof (i.e., top, bottom, and sides). 
     Referring again to  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , as noted above, the head column  122  and the foot column  124  may be adjustable in the vertical direction such that the head column  122  and the foot column  124  may raise or lower the longitudinal frame  130  with respect to the base frame  110  in the vertical direction. In some embodiments, at least one column actuator  121  is coupled to the head column  122  and/or the foot column  124 . The at least one column actuator  121  moves the head column  122  and the foot column  124  upward and downward in the vertical direction with respect to the base frame  110 . The column actuator  121  may be a powered actuator, such as an electric motor, linear actuator, pneumatic cylinder, hydraulic cylinder, or the like, or may be manually powered, such as by a system of gears actuated by a pedal, a crank, or the like, or even a hydraulic cylinder actuated by a pedal, a crank, or the like. For example, the column actuator  121  may also include a linear actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, an electro-mechanical actuator, or the like. 
     The head column  122  and the foot column  124  may be raised and lowered in the vertical direction independent of one another such that the longitudinal frame  130  may be tilted with respect to the horizontal plane (i.e., the X-Y plane), as described above. For example, the head column  122  may be raised with respect to the foot column  124  in the vertical direction such that the head end of the longitudinal frame  130  is positioned higher than the foot end of the longitudinal frame  130  in the vertical direction (i.e., a reverse Trendelenburg position). Conversely, the foot column  124  may be raised with respect to the head column  122  in the vertical direction, such that the foot end of the longitudinal frame  130  is positioned higher than the head end of the longitudinal frame  130  in the vertical direction (i.e., a Trendelenburg position). In some embodiments, both the head column  122  and the foot column  124  of the primary support frame  120  may be raised or lowered in the vertical direction simultaneously and in conjunction with one another, thereby raising both the head end and the foot end of the longitudinal frame  130 . 
     Referring now to the embodiment of the person support apparatus  100  depicted in  FIGS.  1 A and  2 A- 2 B , the support deck  170  may comprise one or more support pad assemblies  140 . Each one of the one or more support pad assemblies  140  are coupled to the longitudinal frame  130  and are positioned between the head column  122  and the foot column  124 . Each of the one or more support pad assemblies  140  extends in the lateral direction (i.e., generally along the Y axis) by a width W from the first side rail  132  to the second side rail  134 . In some embodiments, each of the one or more support pad assemblies  140  may extend beyond the side rails  123 ,  134 , as depicted in  FIG.  1 A . In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  1 A , the one or more support pad assemblies  140  includes six support pads  141  positioned at various locations between the head column  122  and the foot column  124 . However, it should be understood that the number of support pad assemblies  140  coupled to the longitudinal frame  130  between the head column  122  and the foot column  124  is not limited by the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the person support apparatus  100  may include a suitable number of support pad assemblies  140  sufficient to support a subject thereon. In some embodiments, the support pad assemblies  140  may support a particular section of a subject&#39;s body. For example, one or more of the support pad assemblies  140  may be positioned generally at or near the foot end F of the person support apparatus  100  for supporting the lower body and/or legs of a subject. In another example, one or more of the support pad assemblies  140  may be positioned generally at or near the head end H of the person support apparatus  100  for supporting the upper body and/or head of a subject. In yet another example, one or more of the support pad assemblies  140  may be positioned such that they generally support a torso and/or a midsection of a subject. 
     Still referring to  FIGS.  1 A and  2 A- 2 B , in embodiments, the support pad  141  in each support pad assembly  140  may have at least one planar configuration in which the support pad  141  is a generally planar surface that supports a subject on the person support apparatus  100 . For example, the support pad  141  may include a rigid substrate and a cover portion with a cushioning material, such as foam or the like, disposed between the substrate and the cover. In some embodiments, at least one support pad  141  of a support pad assembly  140  may include a contoured or a shaped surface to accommodate a specific portion of a subject. For example, a support pad  141  positioned to support a subject&#39;s head may be contoured to correspond to an approximate shape and size of a subject&#39;s head. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  1 A,  2 A- 2 B,  3 , and  4 A , the support pad  141  of each support pad assembly  140  is coupled to the longitudinal frame  130  with one or more clamps  152 ,  154 . In some embodiments, each support pad  141  may be coupled to the longitudinal frame  130  via a plurality of clamps. More particularly, as shown in  FIGS.  3  and  4 A , the support pad assembly  140  includes a first clamp  152  that is coupled to the first side rail  132  and a second clamp  154  that is coupled to the second side rail  134 . The first and second clamps  152 ,  154  may be coupled such that they are slidably movable and repositionable along a length of the respective side rails  132 ,  134 . Accordingly, it should be understood that the clamps  152 ,  154  (and the support pad  141  coupled thereto) are repositionable along the length of the longitudinal frame  130 . In addition, the first and second clamps  152 ,  154  may be coupled to the respective side rails  132 ,  134  such that the first and second clamps  152 ,  154  retain the support pad  141  on the respective side rails  132 ,  134 . In some embodiments, the clamps  152 ,  154  may be spaced in pairs such that the first clamp  152  is positioned in a first location on the first side rail  132  and the second clamp  154  is positioned in a second location on the second side rail  134 , where the first and second locations are parallel and opposing each other at an equal distance from the head column  122  and the foot column  124 . In some embodiments, each clamp  152 ,  154  may be positioned at a location on the respective side rail  132 ,  134  that contains a quick disconnect slot  190  such that each of the clamps  152 ,  154  are engaged with a corresponding quick disconnect slot  190 . 
     The first and second clamps  152 ,  154  are coupled to the respective side rails  132 ,  134  via one or more clamping features. For example, as shown in  FIG.  5 A , the first clamp  152  may be a “C” shaped clamp having an opening  155  and one or more lips  158  that extend towards the opening  155  in the “C” shape. As such, the first clamp  152  receives the first side rail  132  by allowing the first side rail  132  to pass through the opening  155 . In addition, once the first clamp  152  is arranged around the first side rail  132 , the one or more lips  158  prevent the first clamp  152  from slipping off of the first side rail  132 . In this embodiment, the clamp  152  may be formed from a material which is elastically deformable and recoverable, such as a polymeric material or the like, to facilitate attaching the clamp  152  to a respective side rail (e.g., the first and second side rails  132 ,  134 ). 
     In another example, as shown in  FIG.  5 B , the first clamp  152  may have a first clamp portion  152   a  and a second clamp portion  152   b  that is separate from the first clamp portion  152   a . The first clamp portion  152   a  is attachable to the second clamp portion  152   b  such that the first side rail  132  is enclosed within the first clamp  152 . In some embodiments, the first clamp portion  152   a  may be secured to the second clamp portion  152   b  via one or more attachment devices  156 , such as threaded fasteners, clips, or the like. 
     In yet another example, as shown in  FIG.  5 C , the first clamp portion  152   a  may be partially attached to the second clamp portion  152   b  via a clamp hinge  157  such that the first clamp portion  152   a  and the second clamp portion  152   b  can be brought together around the first side rail  132  by rotating the second clamp portion  152   b  about the clamp hinge  157  from an open position to a closed position. In some embodiments, the first clamp portion  152   a  may be further secured to the second clamp portion  152   b  via one or more attachment devices  156  including, without limitation, threaded fasteners, clips, latches, or the like. While only the first clamp  152  is depicted with respect to  FIGS.  5 A,  5 B, and  5 C , it should be understood that the second clamp  154  may also incorporate such clamping features. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  3   , one embodiment of a support pad assembly  140  is schematically depicted in cross section. As shown in  FIG.  3   , the support pad  141  of the support pad assembly  140  is coupled to the first and second clamps  152 ,  154  with actuators  162   a  and  162   d . Specifically, the first clamp  152  includes an actuator  162   a  affixed thereto. The actuator  162   a  is coupled to an underside of the support pad  141  at a pivot point  164   a  which, in embodiments, may be a pin and clevis connection or a similar connection which allows the support pad  141  to pivot with respect to the actuator  162   a . Similarly, the second clamp  154  includes an actuator  162   d  affixed thereto. The actuator  162   d  is coupled to an underside of the support pad  141  at a pivot point  164   d  which, in embodiments, may be a pin and clevis connection or a similar connection which allows the support pad  141  to pivot with respect to the actuator  162   d . In embodiments, the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  are electrically coupled to conductors associated with the quick disconnect slots  190  of the side rails  132 ,  134 . The actuators  162   a ,  162   d  may be used to raise and lower the support pad  141  with respect to the side rails  132 ,  134  in the +/−Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  3   . That is, the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  may be extended in the +Z direction to raise the support pad  141  and retracted in the −Z direction to lower the support pad  141  from a raised position. In addition, the pivot points  164   a ,  164   d  permit the support pad  141  to be tilted about an axis parallel to the X axis of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  3   . That is, the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  may be actuated by different amounts to pivot the support pad  141  about an axis parallel to the X axis. For example, in one embodiment, one of the first actuator  162   a  and the second actuator  162   d  may be raised while the other is maintained in position to facilitate pivoting the support pad  141  about an axis parallel to the X axis. 
     In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  3   , the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  are electro-mechanical actuators, such as linear actuators. In these embodiments, the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  are configured such that the actuators are locked in position unless power is applied to unlock and actuate them. While the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  are described as powered actuators, it should be understood that other types of actuators are contemplated and possible including, without limitation, pneumatic actuators, hydraulic actuators, or the like. Moreover, it should be understood that the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  may be powered actuators or, alternatively, may be manually actuated. In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  3   , the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  are coupled to electrical quick disconnect slots  190  formed in the top of the side rails  132 ,  134 . However, it should be understood that other orientations are contemplated and possible. For example, configuring the clamps  152 ,  154  such that the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  are attached are positioned on the sides of the side rails  132 ,  134  may allow for the use of actuators with a greater amount of travel, allowing for more flexibility in the positioning of the support pads  141  relative to the side rails  132 ,  134  of the longitudinal frame  130 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  1 A and  4 A , in some embodiments, one or more of the support pads  141  may include a pad hinge  142 . The pad hinge  142  allows the support pad  141  to be folded along an axis  144  that extends through the pad hinge  142 . That is, the pad hinge  142  allows a first section  141   a  and a second section  141   b  of the support pad  141  to be folded towards one another about the pad hinge  142 , permitting the support pad  141  to be adjusted from a substantially planar configuration to a “V” configuration wherein the first section  141   a  and the second section  141   b  of the support pad  141  are angled towards one another. Other positions will be discussed herein with respect to  FIGS.  12 A- 1  to  12 D- 2   . In embodiments, the pad hinge  142  may be centrally located along the width W of the support pad  141 . Specifically, the pad hinge  142  may be located such that the pad hinge  142  evenly bisects the support pad  141  in the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the pad hinge  142  may be positioned at another location along the width W between the first side rail  132  and the second side rail  134 . 
     In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  4 A , the support pad assembly  140  includes a pad hinge  142  such that the first section  141   a  and the second section  141   b  of the support pad  141  are pivotable with respect to one another. The support pad assembly further includes actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c ,  162   d  to facilitate raising and lowering the support pad  141  in the +/−Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  4 A , as well as to facilitate folding the first section  141   a  and second section  141   b  of the support pad  141  with respect to one another about the pad hinge  142 . 
     Specifically, as described above with respect to  FIG.  3   , the first clamp  152  includes an actuator  162   a  affixed thereto. The actuator  162   a  is coupled to an underside of the support pad  141  at a pivot point  164   a  which, in embodiments, may be a pin and clevis connection or a similar connection which allows the support pad  141  to pivot with respect to the actuator  162   a . Similarly, the second clamp  154  includes an actuator  162   d  affixed thereto. The actuator  162   d  is coupled to an underside of the support pad  141  at a pivot point  164   d  which, in embodiments, may be a pin and clevis connection or a similar connection which allows the support pad  141  to pivot with respect to the actuator  162   d . In embodiments, the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  are electrically coupled to conductors associated with the quick disconnect slots  190  of the side rails  132 ,  134 . The actuators  162   a ,  162   d  may be used to raise and lower the support pad  141  with respect to the side rails  132 ,  134  in the +/−Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  4 A . Alternatively, the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  may be used to tilt the support pad  141 , as described hereinabove with respect to  FIG.  3   . 
     In addition, each of the clamps  152 ,  154  includes a second actuator  162   b ,  162   c  which may be used to control folding of the support pad  141  about pad hinge  142 . Specifically, the first clamp  152  includes an actuator  162   b  attached to the first clamp  152  in-board of the side rail  132  (that is, actuator  162   b  is positioned between the side rail  132  and the longitudinal centerline of the longitudinal frame  130 ). The actuator  162   a  and the actuator  162   b  are oriented such that the direction of extension of each actuator is non-parallel with the direction of extension of the other actuator. For example, in the embodiment of the support pad assembly  140  depicted in  FIG.  4 A , the direction of extension of actuator  162   a  is generally orthogonal to the direction of extension of actuator  162   b . In embodiments, actuator  162   b  is connected to the underside of the support pad  141  with a link arm  166   a . More specifically, the link arm  166   a  is pivotally coupled to actuator  162   b  with a pivot point  164   e , such as a pin and clevis connection or a similar pivoting connection. Link arm  166   a  is also pivotally coupled to the underside of the support pad  141  with a pivot point  164   b , such as a pin and clevis connection or a similar pivoting connection. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  4 A and  4 B , in embodiments, the pivot point  164   b  to which link arm  166   a  is connected may be disposed in a track  168  on the underside of the support pad  141 . In this embodiment, the track  168  allows the pivot point  164   b  to slide in the lateral direction (i.e., the +/−Y direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIGS.  4 A and  4 B ). Permitting the pivot point  164   b  to slide in the track  168  assists in folding the first section  141   a  and the second section  141   b  of the support pad  141  with respect to one another about the pad hinge  142 . 
     Referring again to  FIG.  4 A , similar to the first clamp  152 , the second clamp  154  includes an actuator  162   c  attached to the second clamp  154  in-board of the side rail  134  (that is, actuator  162   c  is positioned between the side rail  134  and the longitudinal centerline of the longitudinal frame  130 ). The actuator  162   d  and the actuator  162   c  are oriented such that the direction of extension of each actuator is non-parallel with the direction of extension of the other actuator. For example, in the embodiment of the support pad assembly  140  depicted in  FIG.  4 A , the direction of extension of actuator  162   d  is generally orthogonal to the direction of extension of actuator  162   c . In embodiments, actuator  162   c  is connected to the underside of the support pad  141  with a link arm  166   b . More specifically, the link arm  166   b  is pivotally coupled to actuator  162   c  with a pivot point  164   f , such as a pin and clevis connection or a similar pivoting connection. Link arm  166   b  is also pivotally coupled to the underside of the support pad  141  with a pivot point  164   c , such as a pin and clevis connection or a similar pivoting connection. In embodiments, the pivot point  164   c  coupling the underside of the support pad  141  with the link arm  166   b  may be disposed in a track, as described hereinabove with respect to  FIG.  4 B . 
     In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  4 A , the actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c , and  162   d  are electro-mechanical actuators, such as linear actuators. In these embodiments, the actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c , and  162   d  are configured such that the actuators are locked in position unless power is applied to unlock and actuate them. While the actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c , and  162   d  are described as powered actuators, it should be understood that other types of actuators are contemplated and possible, including, without limitation, pneumatic actuators, hydraulic actuators, or the like. For example, the actuators  162   a - 162   d  may be powered actuators, such as actuators having an electric motor or the like, or may be manually powered actuators, such as actuators powered by a foot pedal, hand crank, or the like. In embodiments where the actuators  162   a - 162   d  are powered, the actuators may be connected to one of the plurality of quick disconnect slots  190  located on the longitudinal frame  130 . In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  4 A  the actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c , and  162   d  are coupled to electrical quick disconnect slots  190  formed in the top of the side rails  132 ,  134 . However, it should be understood that other orientations are contemplated and possible. For example, configuring the first and second clamps  152 ,  154  such that the actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c , and  162   d  are attached and positioned on the sides of the side rails  132 ,  134  may allow for the use of actuators with a greater amount of travel, allowing for more flexibility in the positioning of the support pads  141  relative to the side rails  132 ,  134  of the longitudinal frame  130 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  6 A and  6 B  by way of example, the actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c  and  162   d  may be actuated in conjunction with one another to facilitate raising and lowering the support pad  141  with respect to the side rails  132 ,  134  and/or folding the first section  141   a  and second section  141   b  of the support pad  141  with respect to one another, as noted above. 
     Referring to  FIG.  6 A  by way of example, to raise the support pad  141  with respect to the side rails  132 ,  134  while maintaining the support pad  141  in a substantially planar configuration, actuator  162   a  may be actuated, thereby extending the actuator  162   a  in the +Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  6 A . Similarly, actuator  162   d  may be actuated, thereby extending the actuator  162   d  in the +Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  6 A . As actuators  162   a ,  162   d  are extended, the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  exert a force on the support pad  141 , thereby raising the support pad  141  in the +Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  6 A . Simultaneous with the actuation of actuators  162   a  and  162   d , actuators  162   b  and  162   c  are also actuated. 
     Specifically referring to actuator  162   b , actuator  162   b  is extended in the −Y direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  6 A . This causes the pivot point  164   b  on the underside of the support pad  141  to slide in the track  168  in the −Y direction towards the pad hinge  142  as the link arm  166   a  pivots about the pivot points  164   b ,  164   e  at either end of the link arm  166   a . Once the pivot point  164   b  on the underside of the support pad  141  has reached the end of the track  168  in the −Y direction, continued extension of the actuator  162   b  transmits a force through the link arm  166   a  to the underside of the support pad  141 , thereby preventing the second section  141   b  of the support pad  141  from folding about the pad hinge  142 . 
     Simultaneously, actuator  162   c  is extended in the +Y direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  6 A . This causes the pivot point  164   c  on the underside of the support pad  141  to slide in the track  168  in the +Y direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  6 A  towards the pad hinge  142  as the link arm  166   b  pivots about the pivot points  164   c ,  164   f  at either end of the link arm  166   b . Once the pivot point  164   c  on the underside of the support pad  141  has reached the end of the track  168  in the +Y direction, continued extension of the actuator  162   c  transmits a force through the link arm  166   b  to the underside of the support pad  141 , thereby preventing the first section  141   a  of the support pad  141  from folding about the pad hinge  142 . In this manner, simultaneous actuation of the actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c , and  162   d  may be used to raise the support pad  141  in the +Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  6 A  without folding the support pad  141  about the pad hinge  142 . It should be understood that simultaneous actuation of the actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c , and  162   d  may also be used to lower the support pad  141  in the −Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  6 A  by simultaneously retracting the actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c  and  162   d.    
     While  FIG.  6 A  depicts the support pad  141  being raised in the +Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  6 A  without folding the support pad  141  about the pad hinge  142 , it should be understood that selective actuation of the actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c , and  162   d  may also be used to fold the support pad  141  about the pad hinge  142 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  6 B  by way of example, the first section  141   a  of the support pad  141  may be folded about the pad hinge  142  by actuating the actuator  162   d , thereby extending the actuator in the +Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  6 B . As the actuator  162   d  is extended, the actuator  162   d  exerts a force on the underside of the support pad  141 , causing the first section  141   a  of the support pad  141  to pivot about the pad hinge  142  towards the second section  141   b  of the support pad  141 . During this procedure, actuator  162   c  is not actuated. As such, the pivoting motion of the first section  141   a  of the support pad  141  causes the link arm  166   b  to pivot about the pivot points  164   c ,  164   f  at either end of the link arm  166   b  as the pivot point  164   c  located on the underside of the first section  141   a  of the support pad  141  slides in its track  168  in the −Y direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  6 B , away from the pad hinge  142 . 
     While  FIG.  6 B  depicts the first section  141   a  of the support pad  141  being folded about the pad hinge  142 , it should be understood that the second section  141   b  of the support pad  141  may be similarly folded about the pad hinge  142  by selectively actuating actuators  162   a  and  162   b . Further, it should be understood that the first section  141   a  and the second section  141   b  of the support pad  141  may both be folded about the pad hinge  142  by selective actuation of the actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c , and  162   d . Finally, it should be understood that folding of the support pad  141  may be performed with the support pad  141  oriented at its lowest position with respect to the side rails  132 ,  134  or with the support pad  141  in a raised position with respect to the side rails  132 ,  134 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  7   , an alternative embodiment of a support pad assembly  140  is schematically depicted. In this embodiment, the support pad assembly  140  includes a support pad  141  comprising a first section  141   a  and a second section  141   b , which are foldable with respect to one another about pad hinge  142 , as described hereinabove with respect to  FIG.  4 A . In this embodiment, the support pad assembly  140  is joined to the side rails  132 ,  134  with a single clamp  153  that extends between the side rails  132 ,  134  in the lateral direction of the person support apparatus  100 . Specifically, the clamp  153  includes a lower clamping member  159  that extends between the side rails  132 ,  134 . The support pad assembly  140  also includes actuators  162   a ,  162   d  coupled to the underside of the support pad  141 , as described hereinabove with respect to  FIGS.  3  and  4 A . Accordingly, it should be understood that the actuators  162   a ,  162   d  may be used to raise and lower the support pad  141  in the vertical direction and also tilt the support pad  141  about an axis generally parallel to the X axis of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  7   . In this embodiment, a central portion of the support pad  141 , such as a portion containing the pad hinge  142 , may be coupled to a central actuator  162   e  that is affixed to a lower clamping member  159  between the first side rail  132  and the second side rail  134 . While  FIG.  7    depicts the central actuator  162   e  as being coupled to a lower clamping member  159 , it should be understood that, in other embodiments, the central actuator  162   e  may be coupled to a portion of the longitudinal frame  130  ( FIG.  1 A ) that is centrally located between the first side rail  132  and the second rail  133 , such as a central third rail or the like. 
     In this embodiment, the support pad  141  can be raised, lowered, folded about the pad hinge  142  or unfolded about the pad hinge  142  by actuating the various actuators  162   a ,  162   d , and  162   e  either synchronously or independently. For example, the entire support pad  141  may be raised or lowered by simultaneously operating actuators  162   a ,  162   d , and  162   e  to uniformly raise and/or lower the support pad  141 . When the operation of the actuators  162   a ,  162   d , and  162   e  are synchronized, the first section  141   a , the second section  141   b , and the pad hinge  142  of the support pad  141  are simultaneously raised and/or lowered, preventing the first section  141   a  and/or the second section  141   b  from folding about the pad hinge  142 . Alternatively, the support pad  141  can be folded about the pad hinge  142  by actuating at least one of actuators  162   a ,  162   d  while actuator  162   e  is not actuated. For example, actuating actuator  162   d  causes the first section  141   a  of the support pad  141  to pivot about the pad hinge  142  as the pad hinge  142  is held in place by actuator  142   e . In still other embodiments, the support pad  141  can be folded about the pad hinge  142  by actuating actuators  162   a ,  162   d , and  162   e  at different rates. For example, extending actuators  162   a ,  162   d  at a rate faster than actuator  162   e  causes both the first section  141   a  and the second section  141   b  to rotate about the pad hinge  142  as the entire support pad  141  is raised in the +Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  7   . In yet other embodiments, the support pad  141  can be folded about the pad hinge  142  by actuating actuators  162   a ,  162   d  in a first direction and by actuating actuator  162   e  in a different direction. For example, extending actuators  162   a ,  162   d  in the +Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  7    and retracting actuator  162   e  in the −Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  7    causes both the first section  141   a  and the second section  141   b  to rotate about the pad hinge  142 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  6 A , the support pad  141 , before vertical movement, may be at an initial height (i.e., a standard height) Hs relative to the side rails  132 ,  134 . The support pad  141  may be lowered to any height between the initial height Hs and a minimum height H MIN . In some embodiments, the minimum height H MIN  may be, for example, when the support pad  141  contacts at least a portion of the longitudinal frame  130  (e.g., the first side rail  132 , the second side rail  134 , or the clamps  152 ,  154  coupled thereto) and is impeded from further movement. In other embodiments, the minimum height H MIN  corresponds to the minimum stroke length of at least one of the actuators  162   a - 162   d . The support pad  141  may be raised to any height between the initial height Hs and a maximum height H MAX . The maximum height H MAX  generally corresponds to a maximum stroke length of at least one of the actuators  162   a - 162   d.    
     Movement of the first section  141   a  relative to the second section  141   b  or vice versa or to cause the first section  141   a  and the second section  141   b  to rotate about the pad hinge  142  as depicted in  FIG.  6 B  and  FIG.  7    is not limited by the present disclosure, and either section  141   a ,  141   b  may be moved to achieve any positioning that may be desired. Illustrative positions of the first section  141   a  and the second section  141   b  are depicted with respect to  FIG.  12 A- 1    to  FIG.  12 D- 2   . For example, as depicted in the perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of  FIGS.  12 A- 1  and  12 A- 2   , the various first sections  141   a  and second sections  141   b  may be such that each support pad  141  is in a generally planar configuration in which each support pad  141  is a planar surface for supporting a subject. In addition, the support pads  141  are aligned in height with respect to each other such that an axis A runs through each pad hinge  142 , thereby resulting in a generally planar surface across all of the support pads  141 , as particularly depicted in  FIG.  12 A- 2   . In another example, as depicted in the perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of  FIGS.  12 B- 1  and  12 B- 2   , the first section  141   a  and the second section  141   b  of each of the support pads  141  may be raised vertically (e.g., in the Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIGS.  12 B- 1  and  12 B- 2   ) relative to the pad hinge  142  of each of the support pads  141  such that each of the support pads  141  is arranged in a V shape when viewed cross-sectionally, as particularly depicted in  FIG.  12 B- 2   . Similar to the example depicted in  FIGS.  12 A- 1  and  12 A- 2   , the pad hinges  142  of the support pads  141  are in generally the same plane relative to one another such that an axis A runs through each pad hinge  142 . In yet another example, as depicted in the perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of  FIGS.  12 C- 1  and  12 C- 2   , the first section  141   a  and the second section  141   b  of each of the support pads  141  may be raised vertically (e.g., in the Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIGS.  12 C- 1  and  12 C- 2   ) relative to the pad hinge  142  of each respective support pad  141  to achieve the V shape as described with respect to  FIGS.  12 B- 1  and  12 B- 2    when viewed cross-sectionally. In addition, a central support pad  141  B may be raised at an overall height that is higher in the vertical direction (e.g., in the Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIGS.  12 C- 1  and  12 C- 2   ) than the height of two outer support pads  141  A,  141  C such that the axis A that passes through the respective pad hinges  142  of the outer support pads  141  A, C, but does not run through the pad hinge  142  of the central support pad  141  B, as particularly depicted in  FIG.  12 C- 1   . In yet another example, as depicted in the perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of  FIGS.  12 D- 1  and  12 D- 2   , the first section  141   a  of each of each respective support pad  141  may be raised in the vertical direction (e.g., in the Z direction of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIGS.  12 D- 1  and  12 D- 2   ) to a height that is higher than the height of the second section  141   b  of each of the support pads  141 , thereby resulting in support pads  141  having an obtuse angle shape when viewed cross-sectionally, as particularly depicted in  FIG.  12 D- 2   . It should be understood that the various configurations shown with respect to  FIG.  12 A- 1    to  FIG.  12 D- 2    are merely illustrative, and other configurations may be achieved by without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  4 A- 4 C , the clamps  152 - 154 , the link arms  166   a - 166   b , the pivot points  164   a - 164   f , and the tracks  168  may generally be formed from materials that are sufficient to support the weight of the support pad  141  with a subject thereon and may further be suitable for use with a variety of radiology equipment, such as x-ray machines and the like. For example, in some embodiments, the clamps  152 - 154 , the link arms  166   a - 166   b , and the pivot points  164   a - 164   f  may be formed from radiolucent materials. Radiolucent materials may be any material that permits x-rays to pass through unimpeded. Nonlimiting examples of radiolucent materials include polymeric materials, carbon fiber materials, fiberglass, composite materials, resins, and the like, as well as any combination thereof. Particular nonlimiting examples of polymeric radiolucent materials may include acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) plastics and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) plastics. Other particular nonlimiting examples of radiolucent materials may include carbon nanotubes and graphene. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  8   , in embodiments, the person support apparatus  100  may further include one radiolucent support pad assembly  143 . The radiolucent support pad assembly  143  is constructed from radiolucent materials such that the radiolucent support pad assembly  143  is transparent to x-rays. The radiolucent support pad assembly  143  may include clamps (clamps  154  shown in  FIG.  8   ) such that the radiolucent support pad assembly  143  is positionable on the side rails (side rail  134  depicted in  FIG.  8   ) of person support apparatus  100 , as described hereinabove. However, the radiolucent support pad assembly  143  does not include an actuator for adjusting a height of the support pad  141  relative to the side rails, as the actuators are generally not radiolucent. Accordingly, it should be understood that the radiolucent support pad assembly  143  generally has a fixed height relative to the side rails to which it is attached. In the embodiments described herein, the height H of the radiolucent support pad assembly  143  generally is intermediate between the minimum and maximum stroke length of the actuators associated with the support pad assemblies  140  located adjacent to it on the person support apparatus  100 . As such, the adjacent support pad assemblies  140  may be raised or lowered with respect to the radiolucent support pad assembly  143  allowing for both convex and concave surface configurations. For example, the support pads  141  of the support pad assemblies  140  in  FIG.  7    are positioned at elevations lower than the radiolucent support pad assembly  143  to achieve a concave surface configuration. However, it should be understood that the support pads  141  of the support pad assemblies  140  may be positioned at elevations higher than the radiolucent support pad assembly  143  to achieve a convex surface configuration. 
     A radiolucent support pad assembly  143  that is repositionable along the person support apparatus  100  in conjunction with the actuated support pad assemblies  140  allows for a subject to be adjustably supported on the person support apparatus  100  while still enabling radiological imaging (such as x-ray imaging) of a particular portion of the subject. That is, the radiolucent support pad assembly  143  may be positioned proximate a surgical location to support the subject without interfering with x-ray imaging of the surgical location. Moreover, constructing the radiolucent support pad assembly  143  with a fixed height H that is intermediate between the maximum and minimum stroke length of the actuators of the actuated support pad assemblies  140  permits flexibility in the positioning of the subject while still allowing for x-ray imaging. That is, the positioning of the subject on the person support apparatus  100  can be adjusted with the actuated support pad assemblies  140  relative to the radiolucent support pad assembly  143 . 
     Referring again to  FIG.  1 A , the person support apparatus  100  further includes at least one actuator control unit  160  that is communicatively coupled to the actuators  162   a - 162   e  ( FIGS.  4 A- 4 C ). The actuator control unit  160  is not limited by the present disclosure, and may generally be any control device. For example, the actuator control unit  160  may include a processor and a non-transitory memory storing computer readable and executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, facilitate operation of the actuators  162   a - 162   e  ( FIGS.  4 A and  4 C ). The actuator control unit  160  sends a signal to at least one of the actuators  162   a - 162   e  ( FIGS.  4 A  and  4 C) to extend or retract, thereby causing at least a portion of the support pad  141  to raise or lower. The actuator control unit  160  is also programmed to determine a distance at which each actuator  162   a - 162   e  should extend or retract to achieve a particular positioning or height adjustment for each of the support pads  141 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  1 A  and  FIG.  9   , the person support apparatus  100  may further include a user interface to control the actuation of the individual support pad assemblies  140  coupled to the side rails  132 ,  134 . For example,  FIG.  9    schematically depicts one embodiment of a pad user interface  340  for controlling the actuation of the individual support pad assemblies  140 . The pad user interface  340  may be communicatively coupled to the actuator control unit  160  ( FIG.  1 A ) either by wires or wirelessly. In this embodiment, the pad user interface  340  is a graphical user interface (GUI) embodied in a touch screen device. This embodiment of the pad user interface  340  includes a schematic representation of the person support apparatus  100  including support pad assemblies  140 A- 140 F including support pads  141 A- 141 F. A user may contact the schematic representation of the support pads  141 A- 141 F on the GUI and “pull-up” or “pull-down” the corresponding support pad of the person support apparatus, thereby actuating the actuators of the support pad assemblies to position the support pads in the desired location. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  1 A  and  FIG.  10   , in another embodiment, the person support apparatus  100  may further include a user interface to control the actuation of the individual support pad assemblies  140  coupled to the side rails  132 ,  134 . For example,  FIG.  10    schematically depicts one embodiment of a pad user interface  350  for controlling the actuation of the individual support pad assemblies  140 . The pad user interface  350  may be communicatively coupled to the actuator control unit  160  ( FIG.  1 A ) either by wires or wirelessly. The pad user interface  350  may include a plurality of pad soft keys  351 ,  352 ,  353 ,  354 ,  355 , and  356  generally corresponding to the number of support pad assemblies positioned on the person support apparatus  100 . The pad user interface  350  may also include height adjustment soft keys  360 ,  361  for adjusting the height of each support pad relative to the longitudinal support frame  130  of the person support apparatus  100 . Optionally, the pad user interface  350  may include fold control soft keys  370 ,  371 ,  375 , and  376  for controlling the fold adjustment of the support pad assemblies  140 , such as when the support pad assemblies  140  are foldable about a pad hinge, as described herein. In embodiments, a user may select which support pad assembly is to be adjusted by toggling a corresponding pad soft key  351 ,  352 ,  353 ,  354 ,  355 , or  356 . Thereafter, the user can adjust the height of the support pad for the selected support pad assembly by toggling the height adjustment soft keys  360 ,  361  to either raise or lower the support pad. Accordingly, it should be understood that toggling the height adjustment soft keys  360 ,  361  actuate the corresponding actuators as described hereinabove to adjust the height of the support pad. Alternatively or additionally, the user can selectively fold portions of the support pad of the selected support pad assembly by toggling the fold control soft keys  370 ,  371 ,  375 ,  376 . Accordingly, it should be understood that toggling the fold control soft keys  370 ,  371 ,  375 ,  376  actuate the corresponding actuators as described hereinabove to fold portions of the support bad about the pad hinge. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  1 A and  11   , various control components of the person support apparatus  100  are coupled to an electronic controller  200 . Particularly, the electronic controller  200  may include the actuator control unit  160  communicatively coupled to the actuators  162   a ,  162   b ,  162   c ,  162   d ,  162   e , and a column control unit  127  communicatively coupled to the at least one column actuator  121  (two column actuators are depicted in  FIG.  11   ). The electronic controller  200  may also include the pad user interface  350  communicatively coupled to the actuator control unit  160  and a column user interface  210  communicatively coupled to the column control unit  127 . The column user interface  210  includes a device that allows a user to control the actuation of the column actuators  121 . 
     The electronic controller  200  includes a processor and a non-transitory memory storing computer readable and executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, facilitate operation of the various components of the person support apparatus  100 . For example, the electronic controller  200  sends a signal to the at least one column actuator  121  to raise or lower the head column  122  and/or the foot column  124  in the vertical direction based on inputs received through the column user interface  210 . Similarly, the electronic controller  200  sends a signal to the actuators  162   a - 162   e  to raise or lower one or more of the support pads  141  and/or fold one or more of the support pads  141  based on inputs received through the pad user interface  350 . 
     The person support apparatus  100  depicted in  FIG.  1 A  may be used to move, position, and/or reposition a subject supported thereon, such as during surgical procedures that require movement of the subject between various positions to complete the procedure. For example, certain spinal procedures may require a subject to be positioned such that the subject&#39;s spine is arranged in a first configuration for a first portion of the spinal procedure, and then subsequently repositioned to a second configuration for a second portion of the spinal procedure. The configurations of the spine may require the subject to be particularly oriented to achieve the desired spinal arrangement, and the person support apparatus  100  described herein may be used to achieve such particular orientations. 
     In some embodiments, a subject may be moved between a lateral position and a prone position, a lateral position and a supine position, and/or the like by moving one or more of the support pads as described herein. To reposition a subject, the support pads  141  of the person support apparatus  100  depicted in  FIG.  1 A  may be selectively actuated. In some embodiments, a single support pad  141  may be selectively actuated. In other embodiments, a plurality of support pads  141  may be selectively actuated. For example, as shown in  FIG.  8   , each of the support pads  141  may be individually positioned vertically (e.g., raised or lowered substantially along the Z axis of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  8   ) to a particular height that may be different from the height of the remaining support pads  141  such that the subject is positioned in a desired manner. In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  8   , a subject may be “broken” to open or close gaps between vertebrae in the spine of the subject by lowering the support pads  141  supporting a subject&#39;s feet and legs, lowering the support pads  141  supporting a subject&#39;s head, and raising the support pad  141  supporting a subject&#39;s midsection. In embodiments, each of the support pads  141  associated with the actuated support pad assemblies  140  may be moved relative to the radiolucent support pad assembly  143 , when included. In addition, folding support pads may be used to rotate the subject (or portions or the subject) about an axis parallel to the x-axis is  FIG.  8    to achieve a desired positioning for performing a surgical procedure. 
     While  FIG.  1 A  depicts a person support apparatus  100  which utilizes support pad assemblies manipulated with actuators, it should be understood that alternative embodiments are contemplated and possible, such as the person support apparatus  100 ′ depicted in  FIG.  1 B . 
     Referring now to the embodiment of the person support apparatus  100 ′ depicted in  FIG.  1 B , the support deck  170 ′ is coupled to the longitudinal frame  130  and includes one or more segments that are positioned between the head column  122  and the foot column  124  in the longitudinal direction to support a subject on the person support apparatus  100 ′. In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  1 B , the support deck  170 ′ includes an upper segment  172  positioned generally at or near the head end H of the person support apparatus  100 ′. The upper segment  172  may generally support an upper body and/or the head and arms of a subject. The support deck  170 ′ further includes a lower segment  176  positioned generally at or near the foot end F of the person support apparatus  100 ′. The lower segment  176  generally supports the lower body and/or legs of a subject. The support deck  170 ′ also includes a middle segment  174  that is positioned between the upper segment  172  and the lower segment  176  in the longitudinal direction. The middle segment  174  generally supports a torso and/or a midsection of a subject. 
     Each of the upper segment  172 , the middle segment  174 , and the lower segment  176  of the support deck  170 ′ may have at least one planar configuration in which the respective segment  172 ,  174 ,  176  is a generally planar surface that supports a subject on the person support apparatus  100 ′. In some embodiments, the upper segment  172 , the middle segment  174 , and/or the lower segment  176  may include contoured or shaped surfaces that accommodate various portions of a subject. For example, the upper segment  172  may include a pillow portion and arm portions that accommodate a subject&#39;s head and arms, respectively. The middle segment  174  and the lower segment  176  may similarly include features and/or contours that accommodate a subject&#39;s torso and lower body, respectively. 
     At least one of the upper segment  172 , the middle segment  174 , and the lower segment  176  of the support deck  170 ′ may include an arrangement of one or more bladders  171 . The bladders  171  may be any shape or size. For example, in some embodiments, a bladder  171  may have a substantially cuboid shape or cuboid-like shape when inflated to a maximum pressure. In other embodiments, a bladder  171  may have a triangular prism or triangular prism-like shape when inflated to a maximum pressure. In some embodiments, a bladder  171  may have a first shape when deflated to a minimum pressure and a second shape when inflated to a maximum pressure. 
     In addition, the bladders  171  may be arranged in any manner. For example, in some embodiments, the bladders  171  may be arranged in a grid configuration. In some embodiments, the bladders  171  may be stacked on top of each other in a layered configuration such that the support deck  170 ′ contains 2 or more layers of bladders  171  stacked on top of each other. Such a stacking of the bladders may allow for simultaneous inflation of the bladders  171 , which allows a larger range of height change for a surface supporting a subject than would be possible with a single layer of bladder, as described in greater detail herein. In some embodiments, the bladders  171  may be arranged such that they provide the contoured or shaped surface that accommodates the subject. In some embodiments, the bladders  171  may be arranged adjacent to one another. In other embodiments, the bladders  171  may be spaced apart such that a space is present between bladders  171  so as to allow for the bladders  171  to expand and/or to allow for various components to pass between bladders  171 . 
     The bladders  171  may be constructed of any material, particularly materials that are suitable for retaining a pressurized fluid therein. Illustrative materials may include, but are not limited to, rubber, various polymers such as a vinyl polymer or the like, latex materials, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the materials used for the bladders  171  may be suitable for use with a variety of radiology equipment, such as x-ray machines and the like. For example, in some embodiments, the bladders  171  may be formed from radiolucent materials. Radiolucent materials may be any material that permits x-rays to pass through unimpeded, such as the radiolucent materials previously described herein. 
       FIG.  14    depicts an illustrative schematic diagram of a representative bladder  171  according to an embodiment. The bladder  171  may include an opening  185  that allows fluid to be pumped into or extracted from the bladder  171 , thereby inflating or deflating the bladder  171 . The opening  185  may be fluidly coupled to a manifold  182  via a conduit  184 . A valve  186  is positioned between the manifold  182  and is selectively controllable to allow the fluid to pass through the opening  185  into the bladder  171  or out of the bladder  171 . The bladder  171  may further contain a pressure sensor  188 . The pressure sensor  188  may generally be coupled to each bladder  171  to monitor the pressure of the fluid within the bladder  171 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  1 B and  15 A , each of a plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n  is fluidly coupled to one or more pumps  180  via the manifold  182 . In the embodiment depicted in  15 A, the one or more pumps  180  are each fluidly coupled to a fluid supply  189 . For example, such a fluid arrangement may generally allow fluid from the fluid supply  189  to flow through the pump  180  to the manifold  182 , where it is distributed to one or more of the plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n  depending on the open or closed configuration of each of the plurality of valves  186   a - 186   n  that corresponds to a particular one of the plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n . In embodiments where the plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n  are arranged in a stacked or layered configuration, the conduit  184  that fluidly couples the manifold  182  to the plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n  may pass between certain bladders to reach other bladders. 
     In embodiments, the manifold  182  may be coupled to or supported by the person support apparatus  100 ′ such that a fluid connection between the manifold and the bladders  171   a - 171   n  is possible. For example, as shown in  FIGS.  13 A and  13 B , the manifold  182  may extend along a length of the first side rail  132  ( FIG.  3 B ) and/or along a length of the second side rail  134  ( FIG.  3 A ). In some embodiments, the manifold  182  may be coupled to the first side rail  132  and/or the second side rail  134  via one or more retention devices  183 , such as straps, clamps, and/or the like. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the manifold  182  may be integrated within at least a portion of the longitudinal frame  130 . Other locations and configurations of the manifold  182  are contemplated and understood. 
     The manifold  182  and the plurality of conduits  184  may generally be constructed of any material capable of passing fluid therethrough. Illustrative materials may include rubber, various plastics such as vinyl polymers or the like, latex materials, and any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the manifold  182  and the plurality of conduits  184  may be constructed of a radiolucent material, such as the radiolucent materials previously described herein. 
     The one or more pumps  180  may be coupled to a portion of the person support apparatus  100 ′ or may be a standalone unit that is not coupled to the person support apparatus  100 ′. For example, as shown in the embodiment of  FIG.  1 B , pumps  180  may be coupled to the head column  122  and/or the foot column  124  of the primary support frame  120 . The one or more pumps  180  are generally any component that can compress fluid, and/or direct fluid from the fluid supply  189  to the manifold  182 . Nonlimiting examples of pumps include turbine pumps, peristaltic pumps, diaphragm pumps, screw pumps, syringe pumps, and centrifugal pumps. In embodiments, the pumps  180  may work in conjunction with the plurality of valves  186   a - 186   n  to provide a measurable amount of fluid to each of the bladders  171  such that each of the bladders  171  is inflated or deflated to a desired inflation level. 
     The fluid supply  189  may be coupled to a portion of the person support apparatus  100 ′, may be coupled to or integrated with the one or more pumps  180 , or may be a standalone unit that is fluidly coupled to the one or more pumps  180 . The fluid supply  189  is generally any component that can provide fluid to the pumps  180 , and is otherwise not limited by this disclosure. In a nonlimiting example, the fluid supply  189  may be a fluid intake port coupled to the pumps  180 . In another embodiment, the fluid supply  189  may be a container of fluid that is fluidly coupled to the pump  180 . 
     While  FIG.  15 A  schematically depicts a pump  180  fluidly coupled to a fluid supply source  189  to deliver a working fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) to the bladders  171   a - 171   n  via the manifold  182 , it should be understood that other embodiments are contemplated and possible. For example, the plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n  may be coupled to one or more compressors via the manifold  182  rather than the one or more pumps  180  and fluid supply  189 . Accordingly it should be understood that the one or more compressors or the one or more pumps  180  and fluid supply  189  are a fluid source for supplying a working fluid (gas or liquid) to the plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n  via the manifold  182 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  15 B , in addition to being fluidly coupled to one another, various components may further be communicatively coupled to one another. In particular, an electronic controller  200 ′ component of the person support apparatus  100 ′ may incorporate a valve control unit  187 , a pump control unit  188 , and a column control unit  127 . The valve control unit  187  is communicatively coupled to each of the plurality of valves  186   a - 186   n , the pump control unit  188  is communicatively coupled to each of the one or more pumps  180  (one pump is depicted in  FIG.  15 B ), and the column control unit  127  is communicatively coupled to the at least one column actuator  121  (two column actuators are depicted in  FIG.  15 B ). In addition, the electronic controller  200 ′ is communicatively coupled to each of the plurality of pressure sensors  188   a - 188   n  associated with the plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n  ( FIG.  15 A ). The electronic controller  200 ′ may also include a bladder user interface  300  communicatively coupled thereto and the column user interface  210  communicatively coupled to the column control unit. As previously described herein with respect to  FIGS.  1 A and  11   , the column user interface  210  includes a device that allows a user to control actuation of the column actuators  121 . 
     Still referring to  FIG.  15 B , the electronic controller  200 ′ includes a processor and a non-transitory memory storing computer readable and executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, facilitate operation of the various components of the person support apparatus  100 ′. For example, the electronic controller  200 ′ sends a signal to one or more of the plurality of valves  186   a - 186   n  to open or close, thereby allowing or restricting fluid passage into the respective bladder  171   a - 171   n  ( FIG.  15 A ) coupled thereto. Similarly, the electronic controller  200 ′ sends a signal to the pump  180  to cause the pump  180  to control movement of fluid. In addition, the electronic controller  200 ′ receives signals from one or more of the plurality of pressure sensors  188   a - 188   n  corresponding to the sensed pressure inside each respective bladder  171   a - 171   n  ( FIG.  15 A ) associated with the pressure sensors  188   a - 188   n.    
     Referring now to  FIG.  1 B ,  FIG.  15 B , and  FIG.  16   , the person support apparatus  100 ′ may further include a user interface to control the inflation and deflation of the bladders  171 . For example,  FIG.  16    schematically depicts one embodiment of a bladder user interface  300  for viewing information regarding a subject positioned on the person support apparatus  100 ′ and/or controlling inflation of the bladders  171 . The bladder user interface  300  may be communicatively coupled to the electronic controller  200 ′, either by wires or wirelessly. In this embodiment, the bladder user interface  300  is a graphical user interface (GUI) embodied in a touch screen device. This embodiment of the bladder user interface  300  includes a schematic representation of the subject positioned on the person support apparatus  100 ′, including a pressure map  310  indicating the an amount of sensed pressure that is applied to every portion of the subject&#39;s body that is contacting the person support apparatus  100 ′ based on signals received via the pressure sensors  188   a - 188   n . In addition, this embodiment of the bladder user interface  300  also includes one or more inputs  320  for adjusting the person support apparatus  100 ′ and the various components thereof (such as the bladders  171 ). A user may contact the one or more inputs  320  on the GUI and direct a height increase, direct a change in subject movement, and/or direct a change in the amount of pressure applied to the subject&#39;s body at a particular location, thereby causing the valve control unit  187  to transmit signals to one or more of the valves  186   a - 186   n  to open or close, causing the pump control unit  188  to transmit signals to the one or more pumps  180 , receive signals from one or more of the pressure sensors  188   a - 188   n , and/or cause the column control unit  127  to transmit signals to the column actuators  121  to move up or down. 
     To reposition a subject positioned thereon, the person support apparatus  100 ′ depicted in  FIG.  1 B  may be directed to selectively inflate and/or deflate one or more of the bladders  171 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  17   , each of the plurality of bladders  171  may be inflated or deflated to a particular fluid pressure therein such that the subject is positioned in a particular manner. In the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  17   , a subject may be “broken” to open or close gaps between vertebrae in the spine of the subject by partially inflating one or more of the bladders  171  in the lower segment  176  that support a subject&#39;s feet and legs, partially inflating one or more of the bladders  171  located in the upper segment  172  that support a subject&#39;s head and arms, and fully inflating one or more of the bladders  171  located in the middle segment  174  that support a subject&#39;s midsection, thereby causing the support deck  170 ′ to have a surface with a convex shape. Similarly, while not depicted in  FIG.  17   , a subject may be broken by partially inflating one or more of the bladders  171  in the middle segment  174  and fully inflating one or more of the bladders  171  in the upper segment  172  and the lower segment  176 , thereby causing the support deck  170 ′ to have a surface with a concave shape. 
     Referring again to  FIG.  15 B , to obtain a particular positioning of the subject, the electronic controller  200 ′ is configured to receive inputs from a user via the bladder user interface  300  regarding a desired positioning, receive signals from the plurality of pressure sensors  188   a - 188   n  regarding the sensed pressure of each of the plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n , and based on the inputs and the signals, determine which of the plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n  are to be inflated or deflated and determine a specific pressure of the fluid inside of each of the plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n  that would result in a desired inflatedness of each bladder  171 . Such a determination may be based on a current positioning of the subject (determined based upon the sensed pressure in each of the bladders  171 ), the current inflatedness of particular bladders  171 , and an amount of inflatedness necessary for each of the bladders  171  to achieve the desired positioning. That is, the electronic controller  200 ′ may determine whether certain parts of the subject&#39;s body are to be raised, lowered, tilted, and/or the like to achieve a desired positioning, and the inflatedness of each bladder  171  that would achieve such a movement of those parts. Once the specific pressure for each of the plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n  has been determined, the electronic controller  200 ′ may direct the pump control unit  188  to send a signal to the one or more pumps  180  to circulate and/or compress or decompress fluid and direct the valve control unit  187  to send signals to one or more of the plurality of valves  186   a - 186   n  to open or close to allow fluid to pass therethrough until a corresponding pressure sensor  188   a - 188   n  transmit a signal that the pressure in the corresponding bladder  171   a - 171   n  is an equivalent of the determined specific pressure. 
     For example, referring to  FIG.  15 A ,  FIG.  15 B , and  FIG.  17   , if the user provides inputs via the bladder user interface  300  that the desired positioning of the subject would be a convex shape as shown in  FIG.  17   , the electronic controller  200 ′ may receive signals from each of the plurality of pressure sensors  188   a - 188   n  that indicate that the bladders  171   a - 171   n  corresponding thereto are in a deflated configuration. The electronic controller  200 ′ may further determine that a bottom layer of bladders  171  should be fully inflated, that a second layer of bladders  171  in the lower segment  176  and upper segment  172  should be partially inflated, and that the second layer of bladders  171  in the middle segment  174  should be fully inflated to achieve the desired concave shape. Accordingly, the electronic controller  200 ′ may direct the pump control unit  187  to send a signal to the one or more pumps  180  to begin pumping air into the manifold  182 , and directing the valve control unit  187  to open all of the valves  186   a - 186   n . As the fluid is pumped into the bladders  171 , the electronic controller  200 ′ may continuously receive signals from the corresponding pressure sensors  188   a - 188   n . When the desired pressure has been reached for each bladder based on the received pressure signal, the electronic controller  200 ′ may direct the valve control unit  187  to close the corresponding valve  186  until all of the bladders  171  are appropriately inflated and the corresponding valves  186   a - 186   n  are closed. The electronic controller  200 ′ may then direct the pump control unit  188  to send a signal to the one or more pumps  180  to cease pumping fluid. 
     Inflating or deflating each of the bladders  171  may generally be completed to obtain a precise pressure in each of the bladders  171  such that a precise positioning of the subject is possible. Accordingly, it should be understood that the electronic controller  200 ′ does not merely cause each of the plurality of bladders  171   a - 171   n  to inflate to a maximum inflation level or deflate to a minimum inflation level whenever bladder inflation is necessary. Rather, by continuously receiving pressure signals from the pressure sensors  188   a - 188   n  and controlling the valves  186   a - 186   n , a precise inflatedness of each of the bladders  171  may be achieved. Moreover, in embodiments where the bladders  171  are arranged in a layered configuration, inflation or deflation of certain stacked bladders  171  allows for even more precise control over the positioning of the subject because the stacked bladders  171  can each individually be inflated to a precise pressure level, that, when combined with the other layers of bladders adjacent thereto, allows for greater movement and positioning of the subject positioned thereon. 
     Control of the inflatedness of each one of the plurality of bladders  171  may generally allow for an overall height adjustment of the subject supported thereon, as well as a tilting of the surface supporting the subject on an axis parallel to the X-axis of the coordinate axes depicted in  FIG.  17   . 
     In addition, in some embodiments, a subject may be moved between a lateral position and a prone position, a lateral position and a supine position, and/or the like by inflating one or more particularly positioned bladders  171 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  18 A , a subject may be positioned in a prone position between a plurality of angled bladders  171  that are arranged on either side of the subject before the bladders  171  are inflated or deflated. Referring to  FIG.  18 B , the subject may be moved to a generally lateral position by inflating one or more of the angled bladders  171  on one side of the subject, deflating one or more of the angled bladders  171  on another side of the subject, and/or inflating one or more of the bladders  171  positioned beneath the subject. As a result, inflation of bladders on a first side of the subject and deflation (or lack of inflation) of bladders on a second side of the subject may cause the subject to move from a supine or prone position to a lateral position. 
     Referring again to  FIG.  1 B ,  FIG.  15 A ,  FIG.  15 B , and  FIG.  16   , occasionally, a subject may develop injuries as a result of extended periods of pressure that is placed on the subject&#39;s body. For example, some surgical procedures make take several hours to complete and therefore the subject may remain in the same positioning for hours at a time. As a result, the subject may develop pressure ulcers on certain areas of his/her body. To alleviate such pressure and decrease the potential for injury due to long periods of constant pressure, the person support apparatus  100 ′ may control the inflation of the bladders  171   a - 171   n  to reduce or relieve the pressure applied to those areas. In some embodiments, the electronic controller  200 ′ may continuously receive pressure signals from each of the plurality of pressure sensors  188   a - 188   n  and determine the amount of pressure being applied to the subject&#39;s body by the particular bladder  171  associated therewith. The amount of pressure applied to the subject&#39;s body may be determined by recording an initial pressure of the fluid in each bladder  171  before the subject is placed thereon, determining the change in pressure of the fluid in each bladder  171  due to compressive forces that result when the subject is placed on the person support apparatus  100 ′, and calculating the pressure applied to the subject&#39;s body based on the change. In some embodiments, the electronic controller  200 ′ may display pressure data received from the pressure sensors  188   a - 188   n  in a graphical format via the pressure map  310  displayed on the bladder user interface  300 . For example, as shown in the bladder user interface  300  in  FIG.  16   , the pressure map  310  displays the amount of sensed pressure that is applied to every portion of the subject&#39;s body that is contacting the person support apparatus  100 ′. If a user determines that an excessive amount of pressure is being applied to a particular portion of the subject&#39;s body (e.g., excessive pressure on the hip), the user may select an input option  320  that indicates to the electronic controller  200 ′ that the pressure should be reduced. The electronic controller  200 ′ may, in turn, direct the valve control unit  187  to transmit a signal to the corresponding valve(s)  186  to open and/or direct the pump control unit  188  to transmit a signal to the one or more pumps  180  to cause fluid to be removed from the corresponding bladders  171 . 
     The electronic controller  200 ′ may contain programming instructions stored on a non-transitory, computer readable storage medium for executing various processes as described hereinabove. For example, the flow diagram illustrated in  FIG.  19    shows the various processes as illustrative programming instructions. Referring to  FIG.  1 B ,  FIG.  15 A ,  FIG.  15 B , and  FIG.  19   , the electronic controller  200 ′ may receive inputs in step  402 . The inputs may include inputs that are received from the user via the bladder user interface  300  to move, position, or adjust a subject. 
     The electronic controller  200 ′ may determine the current pressure in a particular bladder  171  by receiving one or more signals that correspond to the sensed pressure in step  404 . The signals may generally be received from a corresponding pressure sensor  188   a - 188   n  associated with the bladder  171   a - 171   n . The electronic controller  200 ′ may determine an appropriate pressure for a particular bladder  171  in step  406 . Such a determination may be a pressure sufficient to expand or contract the bladder  171  to a desired shape for subject movement, to alleviate pressure at a contact point between the bladder  171  and a subject, and/or the like. In addition, such a determination may be made based on the signal received in step  404  relating to the sensed pressure. 
     In step  408 , the electronic controller  200 ′ may direct fluid to or from the bladder  171  via the valve control unit  187  (controlling the valve  186  associated with the bladder  171 ) and the pump control unit  188  (controlling the one or more pumps  180 ) based upon the determined pressure in step  406 . For example, if additional pressure is needed, the electronic controller  200 ′ may direct fluid toward the bladder  171 . In contrast, if less pressure is needed, the electronic controller  200 ′ may direct fluid away from the bladder  171 . 
     In step  410 , the electronic controller  200 ′ may determine whether additional bladders  171  should be adjusted for pressure, and if so, the process may repeat at step  404  until all bladders  171  in need of adjustment based on the inputs have been adjusted. In some embodiments, the processes may be completed concurrently for each of the plurality of bladders  171 . If no additional bladders  171  need be adjusted, the electronic controller  200 ′ may provide the pressure map  310  via the bladder user interface  300  in step  412  and, optionally, may further receive one or more inputs from a user by returning to step  402 . 
     SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS 
     The embodiments below are specific embodiments that are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the various embodiments described elsewhere herein. 
     In various embodiments, a person support apparatus comprises a base frame, a longitudinal frame coupled to the base frame and extending in a longitudinal direction, and a support deck supported on the longitudinal frame, wherein the support deck is adjustable from a planar configuration to a concave configuration or a convex configuration. The support deck may include a support pad assembly comprising one or more clamps that couple to the person support apparatus, each one of the one or more clamps comprising at least one actuator, and a support pad coupled to the at least one actuator, the at least one actuator raising and lowering the support pad with respect to the longitudinal frame. The support pad assembly may be a radiolucent support pad assembly having a fixed height relative to the longitudinal frame. The longitudinal frame may comprise a first side rail and a second side rail, and the one or more clamps may comprise a first clamp coupled to the first side rail and a second clamp coupled to the second side rail. The person support apparatus may further comprise an actuator control unit communicatively coupled to each one of the at least one actuator, wherein the actuator control unit comprises a processor and a non-transitory memory storing computer readable and executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, facilitate operation of the at least one actuator. The support deck may comprise a plurality of bladders arranged in a layered configuration and a pressure of each one of the plurality of bladders is individually adjustable. Each one of the plurality of bladders may comprise a pressure sensor. The person support apparatus may further comprise a manifold fluidly coupled to each one of the plurality of bladders; a pump fluidly coupled to the manifold; and a fluid supply fluidly coupled to the pump, wherein the pump directs fluid from the fluid supply to the manifold for distribution to each one of the plurality of bladders. The person support apparatus may further comprise a plurality of valves wherein each one of the plurality of valves is fluidly coupled between the manifold and a corresponding one of the plurality of bladders such that each one of the plurality of valves controls a flow of fluid between the manifold and each one of the plurality of bladders. 
     In various embodiments, a person support apparatus comprises a base frame; a longitudinal frame supported by the base frame extending in a longitudinal direction; and a support pad assembly supported on the longitudinal frame, the support pad assembly comprising: one or more clamps that couple to the person support apparatus, wherein each of the one or more clamps comprises at least one actuator, and a support pad coupled to the at least one actuator, the at least one actuator raising and lowering the support pad with respect to the longitudinal frame. A primary support frame may be supported by the base frame, the primary support frame extending upward from the base frame in a vertical direction and supporting the longitudinal frame. Each one of the one or more clamps may comprise a plurality of actuators. The at least one actuator may be a pneumatic actuator or a hydraulic actuator. At least one of the one or more clamps may be a C shaped clamp having an opening receiving the longitudinal frame and one or more lips that extend toward the opening and secure the C shaped clamp to the longitudinal frame. At least one of the one or more clamps may comprise a first clamp portion and a second clamp portion; and the first clamp portion is joinable to the second clamp portion to secure the clamp to the longitudinal frame. The person support apparatus may further comprise a link arm extending between the at least one actuator and a pivot point coupled to the support pad such that the pivot point allows the link arm to rotate relative to the support pad. The link arm may be coupled to the support pad via a track that allows the pivot point to slide along a length of the track. The support pad may comprise a pad hinge about which the support pad folds. The one or more clamps may be constructed from radiolucent materials. An actuator control unit may be communicatively coupled to the at least one actuator via one or more quick disconnect slots. 
     In various embodiments, a person support apparatus comprises a base frame; a longitudinal frame supported by the base frame and extending in a longitudinal direction; a support pad supported on the longitudinal frame; and a means for adjusting a position of the support pad relative to the longitudinal frame. The support pad may comprise a pad hinge dividing the support pad into a first section and a second section, and the means may further comprise a means for pivoting the first section up or down relative to the second section. The support pad may be a radiolucent support pad having a fixed height relative to the longitudinal frame. The person support apparatus may further comprise a control unit communicatively coupled to the means, wherein the control unit comprises a processor and a non-transitory memory storing computer readable and executable instructions which, when executed by the processor, facilitate operation of the means. 
     In various embodiments, a support pad assembly for a person support apparatus comprises: one or more clamps that couple to the person support apparatus, wherein each one of the one or more clamps comprises at least one actuator; and a support pad coupled to the at least one actuator, the at least one actuator changing a position of the support pad relative to the one or more clamps. The support pad assembly may further comprise an actuator control unit communicatively coupled to the at least one actuator, wherein the actuator control unit comprises a processor and a non-transitory memory storing computer readable and executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, facilitate operation of the at least one actuator. The actuator control unit may be communicatively coupled to the at least one actuator via a quick disconnect slot located on the person support apparatus. 
     In various embodiments, a person support apparatus comprises: a base frame; a plurality of bladders supported by the base frame; a fluid source coupled to each one of the plurality of bladders; and an electronic controller communicatively coupled to the fluid source, wherein the electronic controller comprises a processor and a non-transitory memory storing computer readable and executable instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive one or more inputs corresponding to at least one of a desired subject positioning and a desired pressure to be placed on at least a portion of a subject&#39;s body, determine a pressure for each of the plurality of bladders that corresponds to the received one or more inputs, and direct a fluid from the fluid source to be added to or removed from each one of the plurality of bladders based upon the determined pressure. The plurality of bladders may be arranged in a grid configuration. The plurality of bladders may be arranged in a layered configuration. Each one of the plurality of bladders may comprise a pressure sensor that is communicatively coupled to the electronic controller. The non-transitory memory may further store computer readable and executable instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive one or more pressure inputs from the pressure sensor; and determine a pressure of a bladder corresponding to the pressure sensor. The person support apparatus may further comprise: a manifold fluidly coupled between the fluid source and each one of the plurality of bladders; and a plurality of valves fluidly coupled between the manifold and a corresponding one of the plurality of bladders, wherein the plurality of valves are communicatively coupled to the electronic controller. The non-transitory memory may further store computer readable and executable instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to transmit one or more signals to each one of the plurality of valves that causes each one of the plurality of valves to open or close. The person support apparatus may further comprise a user interface, wherein the non-transitory memory stores computer readable and executable instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to direct the user interface to provide a pressure map indicating an amount of pressure placed on the subject&#39;s body by one or more of the plurality of bladders. 
     In various embodiments, a person support apparatus comprises: a base frame; and a plurality of bladders arranged in a layered configuration and supported by the base frame, wherein a fluid pressure of each one of the plurality of bladders is adjustable. The person support apparatus may further comprise a manifold fluidly coupled to each one of the plurality of bladders; a plurality of valves, each one of the plurality of valves fluidly coupled between the manifold and a corresponding one of the plurality of bladders; a pump fluidly coupled to the manifold; a fluid supply fluidly coupled to the pump; and an electronic controller communicatively coupled to each of the plurality of valves and the pump, wherein the electronic controller directs at least one of the plurality of valves and the pump to adjust the fluid pressure in each one of the plurality of bladders. 
     It should now be understood that the person support apparatuses according to the present disclosure cause a support deck to move to reposition a subject supported thereon. The support deck may comprise one or more support pads, or alternatively, a plurality of adjustable bladders. As such, the one or more support pads are movable or the plurality of bladders are adjustable such that, when a subject is supported by the person support apparatuses, the subject can be moved, adjusted, or repositioned. In addition, when the support deck contains a plurality of bladders, the bladders can be adjusted to alleviate pressure that is applied to the subject&#39;s body during long surgical procedures or the like. Such movement, adjustment, repositioning, and pressure alleviation may be completed in a manner that does not require personnel to breach the sterile field surrounding the subject to adjust the subject, thereby avoiding potential mishandling and infection issues. 
     It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Thus it is intended that the specification cover the modifications and variations of the various embodiments described herein provided such modification and variations come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.