Apparatus and method for pressure management having temperature controlled air flow

Abstract

An apparatus and method for alleviating excessive pressure development on a body area includes a cushion having bottom and top surfaces which are spaced apart. The top surface has a plurality of channels formed therethrough. A compressible inner layer is disposed between the top and bottom surfaces, and a plurality of elongate, inflexible members are supported by the inner layer and are disposed at least partially within the channels. The members have first ends that extend through the channels to project beyond the top surface. Pressure applied to the first ends causes the members to be displaced axially along the channels toward the bottom surface without deformation. Pressure produced by body contact creates point pressures on the body area, and displacement of the members maintains the plurality of point pressures on the body area, alleviating excessive pressure. The apparatus includes a enclosure cover and the members have large, tapered ends. The apparatus may also include a heating or cooling system and may also be incorporated into a vehicle seat.