US 6,901,617 · Granted 2005-06-07
The Air-Cell Cushion That Keeps People Comfortable for Hours
Imagine a cushion made of two layers: a firm foam base with built-in side supports, and on top of it, an inflatable cushion filled with individual air cells arranged in rows. The air cells act like tiny balloons that conform to your body, while the foam underneath keeps everything stable. A specially designed cover holds both layers together so they don't shift around.
The plain-English version
What it protects
The claim covers a multi-layer cushion system that combines a shaped foam base (with front and lateral bolsters) with an inflatable air-cell cushion on top. What's protected here is the specific arrangement of individual air cells in rows, especially the perimeter rows that create a comfortable transition zone between the bolsters and the central air cells. The cover design that secures both layers together and keeps the air cells positioned is also part of what this patent guards.
Why it matters
This patent addresses a real problem in medical and mobility cushioning: how to create a surface that's both supportive and pressure-relieving. The two-layer approach lets users get stability from the foam base while the air cells reduce pressure points that can lead to skin breakdown—a serious concern for people who sit for long periods. By securing both layers under one cover, the design prevents slipping and maintains consistent performance over time.
Real-world use
People in wheelchairs, hospital beds, or office chairs for extended periods rely on cushions like this to prevent pressure sores and stay comfortable throughout the day.
Original USPTO abstract
A multi-layer cushion having a shaped base on which is positioned a resilient, cushioning layer. The shaped base is constructed from a supportive foam and has front and lateral bolsters. The cushioning layer is an inflatable air cell cushion having a flexible base and an array of individual air cells arranged in rows across the flexible base. Rows of cells around the perimeter of the air cell cushion are configured to provide comfortable transition areas between the bolsters and the air cell cushion. The cushion includes a cover that has a lower compartment for the foam base and an upper compartment for the air cell layer. The cover functions to keep the air cell layer in place on the foam layer.
Patent details
- Publication number
- US 6,901,617
- Filing date
- 2003-04-29
- Grant date
- 2005-06-07
- Assignee
- Roho, Inc.
- Inventor(s)
- SPROUSE, II ANTHONY ERIC, PARSONS DAVID KENNETH
- CPC class
- A47C7/021
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