Aquila Corporation - Wheelchair Cushion Systems

Custom Air - Manually Operated Seat Cushion System

Product Description

The Aquila Custom Air is a two-zone, manually operated air cushion system that lets you apply minimal pressure where it is needed most, at the bony area of the posterior.  The Custom Air cushion provides excellent overall pressure relief, but most importantly, extremely low interface pressure at the areas most prone to developing pressure sores, the cheekbones (ischial) and tail bone (sacral) areas of the posterior.    

To prevent pressure sores, a key element is maintaining circulation to the tissue. Studies have shown that pressure of 32 mmHg or less will allow blood to circulate into compressed tissue.  Pressure mapping has proven that the interface pressure achieved with the Aquila Custom Air is far better than 32 mmHg (see pressure maps).

System Design & Benefits

Aquila Custom Air pressure relief cushion.There are two components to the Custom Air cushion system, the control module and the multiple cell, two-zone cushion.

The Aquila Custom Air pressure relief cushion is more than just a simple air cushion. This pressure relief cushion actually shows you how much air pressure is in each of the two zones of the cushion, lets you adjust pressure at any time, and alerts you of low cushion pressure with a visual and audio alert.

 

 

The Cushion

Aquila Custom Air pressure relief cushion. The cells marked with an X are located under the critical bony area of the posterior and can be inflated to a lower pressure for maximum relief.The pressure relief cushion is divided into two groups of air cells, the primary and secondary groups.  The secondary group (marked by X's in the photo at right) typically includes the cells located under the ischial and sacral area and the primary group includes all other cells. However, a different configuration can be made to address specific client needs.

Utilizing the two zone system, the primary area of the cushion is simply inflated to a comfortable pressure and the secondary area to a lower pressure, even down to near zero, for maximum relief immediately under the boney prominences.

The cushion is made of soft, durable neoprene (latex free), and comes with a machine washable and machine dryable lycra (on top) and sure grip fabric (bottom) cover.  

The air cells are shaped to fit the contours of the body for comfort and support.  Each air cell is also reinforced with internal air bladders for increased durability.

Because every Custom Air cushion system is custom made, the cushion can be built to whatever size works best for the clients needs.  The Custom Air can support weights in excess of 400 pounds and bariatric sizes can be made.

Control Module

The Aquila Custom Air pressure relief cushion control module includes a pressure gauge, alarm system, power switch, hand pump, pressure release button, and zone selector.The Control Module is what makes the Aquila Custom Air a system, rather than just another air cushion on the market.  The control module includes hand pump, pressure gauge and alarm system.   

A series of LED lights illuminate to correspond with the air pressure in the cushion.  In this way they act as a pressure gauge so you will know exactly how much air pressure is in the primary area of the cushion. 

Adjusting the air pressure can be done at any time with the on-board hand pump.  Conditions such as changing temperature or altitude that would have other air cushions ballooning or bottoming out are not a problem for the Custom Air since adjustments can be made in seconds.  

Safety Features

One of the best features of the controller is the automatic low pressure warning system.  If the pressure in the primary section of the pad should become very low, a visual and audio alarm will alert you to the condition and you can immediately pump more air into the pad.  Each air cell also has a foam insert to prevent bottoming out in case of major damage to the cushion.

Availability

The Custom Air cushion system is available through most Durable Medical Equipment Dealers, or you can contact Aquila directly for assistance and pricing.

Warranty

The Custom Air is covered by a limited one-year warranty.


Custom Air

The Custom Air - a simple but smart and effective pressure relief cushion system

A simple but smart and effective pressure relief cushion system.

For more evidence, see Clinical Validation or the Testimonials from current clients.