This application describes a revolutionary device to help prevent the development of pressure ulcers. The device works by using a small number of sensors in the
wheelchair or
bed to determine and track the projection of the patient's center of gravity (COP) onto the plane of the chair or
bed. The sensor data are processed by various algorithms which determine when the danger of pressure ulcer development arises and alerts an attendant to reposition the patient. The repositioning is likewise monitored, and if it is inadequate, a higher-level alarm is issued. This device also maintains a history of patient position and movement, which is potentially useful for diagnostic purposes, such as tracking the degree of improvement resulting from a course of treatment or therapy. The archival
record can also provide
verification of proper care in the event of lawsuits or insurance claims. Operation of the device is non-intrusive and does not disturb either the patient or the caregiver unless repositioning of the patient is needed. The invention is based on simple, fundamental principles of
physics and
engineering. It is implemented with a few force sensors, microprocessors, and
wireless networking technology—all of which are readily available. The unique attributes of this apparatus are: Real time performance coupled with maintenance of an archival history. Inexpensive hardware platform. Fully self-contained apparatus. Flexible algorithms for
processing the sensor data and tracking motion trajectories in a quantitative manner. The hardware portion of the apparatus may adapted to be placed in the
wheelchair or
bed under the normal cushions, for mobility-impair patients, or it may be used as a
force platform, much like a bathroom scale, for standing stability monitoring or
gait training. It transmits the instantaneous COP position information over a wired or
wireless network to a
processing and monitoring
station. It does not employ any external components such as video cameras, local GPS transmitters, etc. Aside from a tool for prevention of pressure in mobility-impaired patients, various embodiments of this
system has applications in physical and
occupational therapy,
gait training, mental training (
biofeedback), sports and
athletic training, (e.g., golf swing training, baseball batting practice), gymnastics, yoga, dance / ballet, sports paraphernalia design, and a host of other areas, etc.