United States Patent      6,721,979
Vrzalik ,   et al.     April 20, 2004
Air bed with fluidized bead surface and related methods

Abstract

A therapeutic treatment bed with features to enhance the care and comfort of burn patients and others subject to extensive recuperative periods. Among the features are patient engaging fluidized bead surfaces integral with the upper surfaces of air cushions provided by an air bed. Detachable conformation of the fluidized bead surfaces is also provided.
Inventors:     Vrzalik; John H. (San Antonio, TX), Leininger; Peter A. (San Antonio, TX), Hicks; Ronald B. (San Antonio, TX)
Assignee:     KCI Licensing, Inc. (San Antonio, TX)
Appl. No.:     10/457,660
Filed:     April 17, 1997