Development of an Intelligent Seat for the Alleviation of Pressure Ulcers

Abstract

This paper presents an intelligent seat that can monitor the seat pressure with an aim of relieving the seat pressure for the prevention of pressure ulcers. Advanced thin-sheet force sensors are used to measure the seat pressure in real-time. Different sitting surfaces have been used to evaluate the developed pressure sensing mat. Robotic extension/retraction mechanisms are used from the base of the seat with an aim to redistribute the seat pressure on the top. The developed biomechanics has the potential to treat early stage pressure ulcers in elders. The developed seat can alleviate the problem of pressure ulcers that occur commonly in many seniors and elders especially in nursing homes.