Every design of the iPUP system and its functional components is patent pending The intelligent pressure ulcer prevention (iPUP) is a pneumatic system, consisting of four major components: I: Seat cushion
II: Lumbar-sacral support
III: Pelvic stabilizer
IV: Trunk support Inflation and deflation of all air bladders are realized by a single air compressor and a set of air valves. A microprocessor is programmed to regulate the configuration of iPUP, based on feedback from multiple sensors, e.g. the potentiometer for BPS tilting angle, an array of contact sensors on seat, and air pressure sensors inside. Durability Test | Stability Test
The back portion (30%) of the seat (BPS), where the IT (ischial tuberosites) rest, can be lowered to relieve pressure from the ITs. Contact sensors on seat cushion: FSR force sensors under the cushion of both BPS (left) and FPS (right) are used to detect contact on the seat. Cushions are taken off on right figure to expose the sensors.  
An air bladder is enclosed in a pre-shaped RUBATEX case for each unit. The pelvic stabilizers are designed with specially shaped bladders and foam. When inflated, they form well curved shape to provide firm stabilization of the pelvis. When deflated, they are bendable to allow easy transfer in and out the wheelchair.  
 
Since thoracic supports can interfere with user transfers in and out the wheelchair, the trunk supports are designed with specially shaped bladders and foam. When deflated, they are bendable to allow easy transfer in and out the wheelchair.   
A vertical shaker was used to generate repeated vertical translations to test the durability of the IAPRS on wheelchair, with simulated body weight applied. Testing protocols (simulating average use over a one year period):
Test 1. A daily travel of 1600 cycles (approx. 1 mile) will subject the wheelchair to 584,000 cycles over a one year period. The test is being performed for the wheelchair for 584,000 cycles with ±0.5” vertical translation.
Test 2. A daily traveled down a curb (2” height) approximately 10 times/day. The test is being performed for the wheelchair for 3650 impacts. After each protocol, the mounting mechanisms between the iPUP and the wheelchair, between the BPS and FPS, and between lumbar-sacral support/pelvic stabilizers and the backrest, should be inspected for any looseness and failure.After the inspection, the iPUP should be run continuously for 2 hours to determine whether the system is fully functioning. Evaluating the influence of the iPUP system on wheelchair stability: The test has been performed based on ISO 7176-1 for IAPRS system on two popular wheelchair models: Quickie Titanium and Sunrise A4.
Finding: The iPUP did not significantly affect the overall wheelchair static stability. 
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