The present invention relates generally to a patient support and, more particularly, to a patient sensor for detecting the presence of a patient supported on a patient support surface.
According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a patient sensor is configured to detect a force generated by a patient supported on a patient support surface, the patient sensor comprising a base, a detector operably coupled to the base and positioned below the patient support surface, wherein the detector is configured to detect a force applied to the patient support surface. A force collector extends outwardly from the base toward the detector and is configured to collect and concentrate the force applied to the patient support surface and to direct the force to the detector.
According to a further illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a patient sensor comprises a base, a force sensing resistor having a resistance value configured to change depending upon the amount of force applied thereto, and a shear reducing coupler operably coupling the base to the force sensing resistor such that at least portions of the force sensor resistor are free to move relative to the base.
According to yet another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a patient sensor is configured to detect force exerted by a patient against a patient support surface, the patient sensor comprising a base, and a force sensing resistor operably coupled to the base, wherein the force sensing resistor has a resistance value configured to change depending upon the amount of force applied thereto. A spacer is supported by the base and is configured to position the base in spaced relation to the force sensing resistor.
Further illustratively, the force sensing resistor is operably coupled to a controller and includes a fault condition configured to be detected by the controller. Illustratively, a resistor is coupled intermediate the force sensing resistor and the controller for providing the fault condition.
Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of illustrated embodiments exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the invention as presently perceived.