Sensor Integration Alters Biomechanical Load Transfer in Pressure Mapping of Neonatal Support Surfaces

In bedridden patients, the constant load between the body and the support surface increases the risk of soft tissue injuries. Understanding body–mattress interactions is the key to developing pressure‐reducing support surfaces. Sensors at the material–body interface provide crucial information but may alter interactions by changing local mechanics. To assess such effects, a pressure sensor mat applied on top of support surfaces was compared to point pressure sensors applied on the body surface. We investigated local interface pressure at the occiput and hip on two support surfaces (foam and air‐filled mattress), using three newborn weight models (1.3 kg, 2.3 kg, and 3.3 kg) and multiple air pressures (0.2–0.8 kPa). The sensor mat led to altered material–body interactions and underestimated interface pressure. Low air pressures (0.2–0.4 kPa) reduced interface pressure below foam mattress levels. Increasing body weight was associated with higher optimal air pressure, indicating the need for weight‐specific air pressure adjustment. Exponential regression identified weight‐dependent air pressures that minimize interface pressure. Fitted curve coefficients reflected local anatomical and mechanical differences: The hip showed a higher predicted minimum interface pressure and a narrower air pressure tolerance range than the occiput. These findings demonstrate that anatomical region‐ and weight‐specific air pressure protocols are necessary to minimize interface pressure.