MULTI-LAYER SUPPORT SYSTEM
In various embodiments, a support system includes a multi-layer support system with a number of layers. Systems and methods of removing moisture vapor from an environment surrounding patient are disclosed that accomplish such removal.
1 . A support system comprising:
a first layer comprising a vapor-permeable and liquid-impermeable material;
a second layer comprising a vapor-impermeable and liquid-impermeable material; and
an air mover, wherein;
the first layer is in partial contact with the second layer such that a plurality of channels are formed between the first layer and the second layer; and
the air mover is configured to pull air through the plurality of channels formed between the first layer and the second layer and toward the air mover.
2 . The support system of claim 1 , where the second layer further comprises a cellular cushioning material.
3 . The support system of claim 1 , where the second layer further comprises a plurality of protrusions.
4 . The support system of claim 3 , wherein the protrusions are encapsulated cells.
5 . The support system of claim 4 , wherein the encapsulated cells are pre-filled with air.
6 . The support system of claim 4 , wherein the encapsulated cells have a substantially circular cross-section.
7 . The support system of claim 4 , where the encapsulated cells are substantially regularly-spaced.
8 . The support system of claim 1 , where the first layer further comprises polytetrafluoroethylene.
9 . The support system of claim 1 , where the first layer further comprises polyurethane.
10 . The support system of claim 1 , where the second layer further comprises polyethylene.
11 . The support system of claim 1 , where the thickness of the second layer is 1 inch or less.
12 - 22 . (canceled)
23 . The support system of claim 1 , where the air mover is selected from the group consisting of a fan, a pump, and a blower.
24 . The support system of claim 1 wherein the support system is configured so that during use:
moisture vapor will transfer through the first layer into the plurality of channels;
the air mover will transfer moisture vapor from a first portion of the plurality of channels to a second portion of the plurality of channels proximal to the air mover; and
the air mover will transfer the moisture vapor from the second portion of the plurality of channels and into the environment outside the support system.
25 - 38 . (canceled)
39 . A support system comprising:
a first layer comprising a vapor-permeable and liquid-impermeable material; and
a second layer comprising a cellular cushioning material, the cellular cushioning material being vapor-impermeable and liquid-impermeable and having thermoplastic properties;
wherein the first layer is in partial contact with the second layer such that a plurality of channels are formed between the first layer and the second layer.
40 . The support system of claim 39 , further comprising an air mover.
41 . A method of removing moisture vapor from an interface between a support system and patient, the method comprising the steps of:
providing a support system comprising
a first layer comprising a vapor-permeable and liquid-impermeable material;
a second layer comprising a vapor-impermeable and liquid-impermeable material, where the second layer is in partial contact with the first layer such that a plurality of channels are formed between the first layer and the second layer; and
an air mover;
transferring moisture vapor from the patient, through the first layer, and into the plurality of channels between the first layer and the second layer located underneath the patient; and
transferring the moisture from the plurality of channels through the first layer and into the environment outside the support system.