Control Technique of a Medical Bed for Ulcer Prevention Equipped with Body Pressure Sensors

Abstract

Pressure sores are an unresolved human challenge. In this study, a keyboard-type medical bed was developed and a body pressure sensor was installed to provide a method to control the keyboard so that the pressure sores do not reach the critical pressure. For this, a keyboard-type mattress using a 4bar link is developed, and a method of controlling the height adjustment of the keyboard within the critical pressure through a body pressure sensor is used. There is a feeling of discomfort in the body when the keyboard is raised and lowered from pressure sores, which is an important factor: pressure x time, and only time control is performed, but if the proposed method is used, pressure is controlled within the critical pressure, thereby preventing bedsores in a comfortable state. The effectiveness and validity of the developed medical bed system were verified through theories and experiments.