Development of a Modularized Seating System to Actively Manage Interface Pressure

Yu, Chung Huang; Chou, Tung Yu; Chen, Cheng-Huan; Chen, Poyin; Wang, Fu-Cheng

doi:10.3390/s140814235

Cited by 6 publications

(3 citation statements)

References 28 publications

(38 reference statements)

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“…If the accumulated moisture between the body–seat interface were not released through air circulation [ 16 ], wetness associated with continuous high pressure could facilitate tissue damage. This relationship has seen growing importance in considering cushion structure in tandem with the cushion materials’ physical properties from the perspective of design on water vapour dissipation [ 9 , 12 , 13 ].…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Performance Assessment of a Humidity Measurement System and Its Use to Evaluate Moisture Characteristics of Wheelchair Cushions at the User–Seat Interface

Liu

Cheng

Luo

et al. 2017

Sensors

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Little is known about the changes in moisture that occur at the body–seat interface during sitting. However, as increased moisture can add to the risk of skin damage, we have developed an array of MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical System) humidity sensors to measure at this interface. Sensors were first evaluated against traceable standards, followed by use in a cross-over field test (n = 11; 20 min duration) using different wheelchair cushions (foam and gel). Relative humidity (RH) was measured at the left mid-thigh, right mid-thigh and coccyx. Sensors were shown to be unaffected by loading and showed highly reliable responses to measured changes in humidity, varying little from the traceable standard (<5%). Field-test data, smoothed through a moving average filter, revealed significant differences between the three chosen locations and between the gel and foam cushions. Maximum RH was attained in less than five minutes regardless of cushion material (foam or gel). Importantly, RH does not appear to distribute uniformly over the body–seat interface; suggesting multiple sensor positions would appear essential for effectively monitoring moisture in this interface. Material properties of the cushions appear to have a significant effect on RH characteristics (profile) at the body–seat interface, but not necessarily the time to peak moisture.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Performance Assessment of a Humidity Measurement System and Its Use to Evaluate Moisture Characteristics of Wheelchair Cushions at the User–Seat Interface

Liu

Cheng

Luo

et al. 2017

Sensors

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“…The alternating pressure aircushion is composed of two series of air cells independently controlled. Yu et al 24 propose an active module based on the concept that the interface pressure can be changed with different supporting shapes. Freeto et al 25 show a comparison among three commercial products and two versions of a developed prototype presented in the paper.…”

Section: Seat Cushion: Modelling and Designmentioning

confidence: 99%

Modelling, design and control of a new seat-cushion for pressure ulcers prevention

Mannella

Bellusci

Graziani

et al. 2022

Proc Inst Mech Eng H

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Pressure ulcers are a frequent complication in patients having limited activity and mobility (e.g., elderly people, spinal cord injury patients, people with disabilities, etc.). The aim of this work is the conceptual design, modelling and control of a new seat cushion for pressure ulcers prevention. The whole system (constituted by the seat cushion equipped with a real-time pressure mapping with closed-loop control) is designed to identify the critical points on the human skin, before pressure ulcers creation, and to be able to distribute the contact pressure between the human and cushion avoiding wound creation. The seat cushion is constituted by soft air-cells actuated by air flow. To define the shape and size of the soft air-cells, finite element simulations are carried out, analysing the internal volume reduction with external loads application to reproduce the variable stiffness. The data obtained by finite element analysis are used to simulate inflation and deflation of the soft bubble air-cells. Finally, the control systems of a single air-cell and of the whole cushion are designed and simulated. The novelty of our work consists in the conception of a seat cushion able to recognise higher and lower risk zones of pressure ulcer generation on the human skin and to provide compensation automatically. This work can therefore be considered in line with the sustainable development goals recently launched by the EU Commission.

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“…Active pressure redistribution cushions can dynamically adjust their shape, pressure distribution, and position in response to an individual's movements, weight, and body contours. Active pressure redistribution cushions commonly employ air or fluid‐filled chambers, [ 18 ] adjustable cells, [ 19 ] or electronic controls [ 20 ] to offer customizable and dynamic pressure relief. Most researched active pressure redistribution cushions focus primarily on alternating pressure seat supports, which cyclically inflate and deflate air cells to modify interface pressure.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Modular Pressure Redistribution Cushion with Proprioceptive Soft–Rigid Hybrid Actuator

Peng,

Wang,

Tian

et al. 2023

Advanced Intelligent Systems

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Pressure ulcers, which can result from prolonged sitting, pose a significant challenge for wheelchair users. Soft robotics has considerable potential in preventing pressure ulcers. However, current soft robotics, constructed from flexible materials, face limitations including insufficient proprioception and controllability. Herein, a vacuum‐powered proprioceptive soft–rigid hybrid actuator (PSHA) module and a modular pressure redistribution cushion (MPRC) developed using this module are introduced. This PSHA module is capable of detecting both position and force. Each module within the MPRC is equipped with onboard control, proprioceptive sensation, and inter‐module communication. The MPRC incorporates a closed‐loop control system, enabling it to actively redistribute pressure, thereby preventing prolonged compression of local soft tissue during periods of inactivity. The proposed PSHA module, as evidenced in its application in pressure redistribution cushions, offers a promising approach for designs intent on reducing the risk of pressure ulcers. This study significantly contributes to the advancement of assistive technology, with the potential to enhance the quality of life for individuals with immobility or limited mobility.

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Development of a Modularized Seating System to Actively Manage Interface Pressure

Cited by 6 publications

References 28 publications

Performance Assessment of a Humidity Measurement System and Its Use to Evaluate Moisture Characteristics of Wheelchair Cushions at the User–Seat Interface

Performance Assessment of a Humidity Measurement System and Its Use to Evaluate Moisture Characteristics of Wheelchair Cushions at the User–Seat Interface

Modelling, design and control of a new seat-cushion for pressure ulcers prevention

Modular Pressure Redistribution Cushion with Proprioceptive Soft–Rigid Hybrid Actuator

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