U.S. patent application number 11/842593 was filed with the patent office on 2008-10-16 for articulating bed frame.
Invention is credited to Daniel R. Tekulve.
Application Number | 20080250562 11/842593 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32771330 |
Filed Date | 2008-10-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080250562 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tekulve; Daniel R. |
October 16, 2008 |
ARTICULATING BED FRAME
Abstract
An articulating bed frame includes a main frame; a back section;
first and second linkage assemblies, each being pivotally connected
at spaced apart first and third ends to the back section and
pivotally connected at opposing, spaced apart and respective second
and fourth ends to the main frame; an upper leg section; a third
linkage assembly pivotally connected at opposing fifth and sixth
ends to the upper leg section and the main frame; a support link
assembly connecting the upper leg section for sliding and pivotal
movement with the main frame; a seat section pivotally connected at
opposing ends to the back section and the upper leg section; a
lower leg section pivotally connected to the upper leg section and
freely supported atop a forward end of the main frame; a drive
assembly connected between the back section and the third linkage
assembly and operable to extend and retract to articulate the bed
frame between a fully reclined position and a fully inclined
position; and, a side rail assembly connected to the main frame and
including a handle having a down position and an up position and
including connection apparatus for permitting articulation between
the down and up positions.
Inventors: |
Tekulve; Daniel R.;
(Batesville, IN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WOODARD, EMHARDT, MORIARTY, MCNETT & HENRY LLP
111 MONUMENT CIRCLE, SUITE 3700
INDIANAPOLIS
IN
46204-5137
US
|
Family ID: |
32771330 |
Appl. No.: |
11/842593 |
Filed: |
August 21, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10974620 |
Oct 27, 2004 |
7257850 |
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11842593 |
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10359087 |
Feb 5, 2003 |
6826793 |
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10974620 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
5/613 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 20/041 20130101;
A61G 7/015 20130101; A47C 20/08 20130101; A61G 7/012 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
5/613 |
International
Class: |
A47C 19/12 20060101
A47C019/12; A47C 19/02 20060101 A47C019/02 |
Claims
1. A bed frame, comprising: a main frame; a back section; a seat
section pivotally connected to said back section; an upper leg
section pivotally connected to said seat section; a lower leg
section pivotally connected to said upper leg section; a first
linkage assembly pivotally connected at an upper end to said back
section and pivotally connected at an opposite lower end to said
main frame; a second linkage assembly pivotally connected at an
upper end to said back section and pivotally connected at an
opposite lower end to said main frame; a third linkage assembly
pivotally connected at an upper end to said upper leg section and
pivotally connected at an opposite lower end to said main frame; a
support link assembly connecting said upper leg section for sliding
and pivoting movement relative to said main frame; first means for
movably supporting said lower leg section atop said main frame; a
drive assembly connected between said back section and one of said
main frame and said third linkage assembly for articulating said
bed frame between a fully reclined position and a fully inclined
position; and, a side rail assembly connected to said main frame
and including a handle having a down position and an up position
and including connection means for permitting articulation between
the down and up positions.
2. The bed frame of claim 1 wherein said drive assembly is
connected at a first end with said back section and at a second end
to said main frame.
3. The bed frame of claim 1 wherein said drive assembly is
connected at a first end with said back section and is connected at
a second end to said third linkage assembly.
4. The bed frame of claim 3 wherein said drive assembly is a linear
actuator operable to selectively retract and extend its first and
second ends toward and away from each other to articulate said bed
frame.
5. The bed frame of claim 1 wherein said main frame includes at
least one roller channel, and said support link assembly includes
at least one support link rigidly connected at a first end to said
upper leg section and extending generally downwardly therefrom to
an opposing distal second end that is sized and configured to
engage with and follow in the roller channel.
6. The bed frame of claim 1 wherein said first means is a track and
guide assembly connected with said lower leg section and said main
frame to permit said lower leg section to ride freely along the
forward end of main frame.
7. The bed frame of claim 1 further including a transport position
wherein said lower leg section is folded about 180 degrees and from
the fully reclined position, and rests substantially flat against
said upper leg frame.
8. An articulating bed frame, comprising: a main frame; a back
section, an upper leg section, a seat section pivotally connected
at opposing ends to said back section and said upper leg section,
and a lower leg section pivotally connected to said upper leg
section; a first linkage assembly being pivotally connected at
opposing first and second ends to said back section and said main
frame; a second linkage assembly being pivotally connected at
opposing third and fourth ends to said back section and said main
frame; a third linkage assembly being pivotally connected at
opposing fifth and sixth ends to said upper leg section and said
main frame, respectively; a support link assembly connecting said
upper leg section for sliding and pivotal movement with said main
frame; a drive assembly connected between said back section and one
of said main frame and said third linkage assembly, said drive
assembly being operable to articulate said bed frame between a
fully reclined position and a fully inclined position; and, a side
rail assembly connected to said main frame and including a handle
having a down position and an up position and including connection
means connecting the handle with said main frame for permitting
articulation between the down and up positions.
9. The bed frame of claim 8 wherein said drive assembly is
connected at a first connection end to said back section and at a
second connection end to said main frame.
10. The bed frame of claim 8 wherein said drive assembly is
connected at a first end with said back section and at a second,
opposing end with said third linkage assembly.
11. The bed frame of claim 8 wherein said main frame includes at
least one roller channel and said support link assembly includes at
least one support link that is rigidly connected at a first end to
said upper leg section and that extends generally downwardly
therefrom to an opposing distal second end that is sized and
configured to engage with and follow in the roller channel.
12. The bed frame of claim 8 further including a track and guide
assembly connected with said lower leg section and said main frame
to permit said lower leg section to ride freely along the forward
end of main frame.
13. The bed frame of claim 8 further including a transport position
wherein said lower leg section is folded about 180 degrees and from
the fully reclined position, and substantially rests flat against
said upper leg frame.
14. An articulating bed frame, comprising: a main frame; a back
section; first and second linkage assemblies, each being pivotally
connected at spaced apart first and third ends to said back section
and pivotally connected at opposing, spaced apart and respective
second and fourth ends to said main frame; an upper leg section; a
third linkage assembly pivotally connected at opposing fifth and
sixth ends to said upper leg section and said main frame; a support
link assembly connecting said upper leg section for sliding and
pivotal movement with said main frame; a seat section pivotally
connected at opposing ends to said back section and said upper leg
section; a lower leg section pivotally connected to said upper leg
section and freely supported atop a forward end of said main frame;
a drive assembly connected between said back section and said third
linkage assembly and operable to extend and retract to articulate
said bed frame between a fully reclined position and a fully
inclined position; and, a side rail assembly connected to said main
frame and including a handle having a down position and an up
position and including connection means for permitting articulation
between the down and up positions.
15. A method for articulating a bed frame between fully reclined
and fully inclined positions, comprising the steps of: providing a
bed frame including: a main frame, a back section connected to the
main frame by first and second linkage assemblies, each of the
first and second linkage assemblies being pivotally connected at
first and third ends to said back section and pivotally connected
at opposing respective second and fourth ends to said main frame,
an upper leg section connected to the main frame by a third linkage
assembly and a support link assembly, the third linkage assembly
being pivotally connected at opposing fifth and sixth ends to the
upper leg section and the main frame, respectively, and the support
link assembly being rigidly connected at a seventh end to the upper
leg section and being slidably and pivotably connected at an
opposing eighth end to said main frame, a seat section pivotally
connected at opposing ends to the back section and said upper leg
section, a lower leg section pivotally connected to said upper leg
section and freely supported atop a forward end of said main frame,
a drive assembly connected at first and second connection ends to
and between the back section and one of the main frame and the
third linkage assembly, the drive assembly being operable to extend
and retract to move the first and second connection ends away and
toward each other, and a side rail assembly connected to said main
frame and including a handle having a down position and an up
position and including connection means for permitting articulation
between the down and up positions; and, from the fully reclined
position, actuating the drive assembly to move the first and second
connection ends away from each other to articulate the bed frame
toward the fully inclined position, and from the fully inclined
position, actuating the drive assembly to move the first and second
connection ends toward each other to articulate the bed frame
toward the fully reclined position.
16. The method for articulating a bed frame of claim 15 wherein the
step of providing a bed frame includes the drive assembly being
connected at its first connection end to the back section and at
its second connection end to the third linkage assembly.
17. The method for articulating a bed frame of claim 16 wherein the
step of providing a bed frame includes the drive assembly being
pivotally connected at its second connection end to the third
linkage assembly.
18. (canceled)
19. (canceled)
20. (canceled)
21. (canceled)
22. (canceled)
23. (canceled)
24. (canceled)
25. (canceled)
26. (canceled)
27. (canceled)
28. (canceled)
29. (canceled)
30. (canceled)
31. (canceled)
32. (canceled)
33. (canceled)
34. The articulating side rail assembly for a bed of claim 18
wherein said position control assembly includes a plate connected
with one of said handle assembly and said first and second linkage
aims, the plate defining at least one hole, said control assembly
further including a pin releasably extendable through the hole of
the plate and into a locking hole defined in the other of said one
of said handle assembly and said first and second linkage alms to
releasably lock said side rail assembly in one of the down
position, the up position and an intermediate position between the
down and up positions.
35. The articulating side rail assembly for a bed of claim 34
wherein the plate is a protractor plate connected with the handle
assembly and the locking hole is defined in one of said first and
second linkage arms.
36. The articulating side rail assembly for a bed of claim 35
wherein there are at least three locking holes defined in the
protractor plate to define the down, intermediate and up
positions.
37. (canceled)
38. (canceled)
39. (canceled)
40. (canceled)
41. (canceled)
42. The articulating side rail assembly for a bed of claim 18
wherein at least one of said first and second linkage arms is
adjustable so that at least one of a and b are selectively
variable.
43. The articulating side rail assembly for a bed of claim 18
wherein at least one of said mounting plate and handle assembly is
adjustable so that at least one of c and d are selectively
variable.
44. (canceled)
45. (canceled)
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of pending U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 10/359,087 filed Feb. 5, 2003.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to bed frames, and more
particularly to an articulating bed frame for home, nursing home
and hospital healthcare.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Beds and bed frames constructed for home, nursing and
hospital healthcare environments provide for articulation of the
frame to tilt one or more sections for the patient's comfort and/or
care. With the push of a button or lever, the back section can be
made to tilt between a completely flat, reclined position and a
forward, inclined position, or one or more leg sections may be made
to bend or tilt between a generally flat and horizontal position
and a drawn-up, bent position. More particularly, since most beds
are positioned against a wall, some beds have back sections that
hug the wall when inclined (raised), which provides additional
space at the foot end. This also allows patients to stay within
reach of bed side cabinets. To accomplish this, the existing
designs of such bed frames typically comprise multiple sliding
frames that retract with pivoting linkages that are heavy and
costly to manufacture. In addition, the movement of such members
may define a path that is larger than the underlying mattress
footprint, which thus takes up more space unnecessarily.
[0004] What is desired is a bed frame that is lighter, cheaper to
manufacture, has a smaller operating footprint, and still hugs the
wall when inclined.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention provides a bed frame that may be
articulated between a generally flat and horizontal position and a
back-inclined position, all while maintaining a substantially
wall-hugging configuration at the head of the bed frame.
[0006] Generally speaking, an articulating bed frame includes a
main frame; a back section; first and second linkage assemblies,
each being pivotally connected at spaced apart first and third ends
to the back section and pivotally connected at opposing, spaced
apart and respective second and fourth ends to the main frame; an
upper leg section; a third linkage assembly pivotally connected at
opposing fifth and sixth ends to the upper leg section and the main
frame; a support link assembly connecting the upper leg section for
sliding and pivotal movement with the main frame; a seat section
pivotally connected at opposing ends to the back section and the
upper leg section; a lower leg section pivotally connected to the
upper leg section and freely supported atop a forward end of the
main frame; a drive assembly connected between the back section and
the third linkage assembly and operable to extend and retract to
articulate the bed frame between a fully reclined position and a
fully inclined position; and, a side rail assembly connected to the
main frame and including a handle having a down position and an up
position and including connection apparatus for permitting
articulation between the down and up positions.
[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide an
improved bed with articulating side rail for hospital, home and
nursing care applications.
[0008] Further objects and advantages will become apparent from the
following description of the preferred embodiment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a top, perspective view of an articulating bed
frame 10 in accordance the present invention and shown in the fully
inclined position.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the articulating bed frame 10 of
FIG. 1 and shown in the fully reclined position 5.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a side view of the articulating bed frame 10 of
FIG. 2.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the articulating bed frame 10 of
FIG. 1 and shown in a partially inclined position 6.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a side view of the articulating bed frame 10 of
FIG. 4.
[0014] FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the articulating bed frame 10 of
FIG. 1 and shown in the fully inclined position 7.
[0015] FIG. 7 is a side view of the articulating bed frame 10 of
FIG. 6.
[0016] FIG. 8 is a top view of the articulating bed frame 10 of
FIG. 6.
[0017] FIG. 9 is a side, cross-sectional view of the articulating
bed frame 10 of FIG. 8 taken along the lines 9-9 and viewed in the
direction of the arrows.
[0018] FIG. 10 is a top, perspective view of the articulating bed
frame 10 of FIG. 1 with several components removed for viewing
clarity.
[0019] FIG. 11 is a bottom, perspective view of the articulating
bed frame 10 of FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 12 is an enlarged, side view of the central portion of
articulating bed frame 10 of FIG. 9.
[0021] FIG. 13 is a front, elevational view of the articulating bed
frame 10 of FIG. 3 and shown in the transport position.
[0022] FIG. 14 is a side, elevational of the articulating bed frame
10 of FIG. 13.
[0023] FIG. 15 is side, elevational view of an articulating bed
frame 150 in accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the articulating bed
frame 150 of FIG. 15 taken along the arrows 16-16, viewed in the
direction of the arrows and without foot board 148.
[0025] FIG. 17 is a top view of the radial arms 211 and 212 and
rocker arms 218 and 219 configuration of the bed frame 150 of FIG.
15.
[0026] FIG. 18 is a side, elevational view of an articulating bed
frame 250 in accordance another embodiment of the present
invention, with bed frame 10 shown in the fully reclined position 5
and side rail assembly 255 shown in the down position 278.
[0027] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the lower portion of side
rail assembly 255 of FIG. 18, showing mounting bracket 260 of bed
frame 250 as mounted to main frame 11.
[0028] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the central portion of side
rail assembly 255 of FIG. 18, showing connector brackets 263 and
264.
[0029] FIG. 21 is a side, elevational view of articulating bed
frame 250 of FIG. 18, with bed frame 10 shown in the fully reclined
position 5 and side rail assembly 255 shown in the intermediate
position 318.
[0030] FIG. 22 is a side, elevational view of articulating bed
frame 250 of FIG. 18, with bed frame 10 shown in the intermediate
position 6 and side rail assembly 255 shown in the intermediate
position 318.
[0031] FIG. 23 is a side, elevational view of articulating bed
frame 250 of FIG. 18, with bed frame 10 shown in the fully inclined
position 7 and side rail assembly 255 shown in the intermediate
position 318.
[0032] FIG. 24 is a side, elevational view of articulating bed
frame 250 of FIG. 18, with bed frame 10 shown in the intermediate
position 6 and side rail assembly 255 shown in the down position
278.
[0033] FIG. 25 is a side, elevational view of articulating bed
frame 250 of FIG. 18, with bed frame 10 shown in the fully inclined
position 7 and side rail assembly 255 shown in the up position
279.
[0034] FIGS. 26-30 show alternative embodiments of the linkages a
through d of side rail assembly 255.
[0035] FIG. 31 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the
side rail position control assembly 266 of side rail assembly 255
of FIG. 18, which a protractor plate 336.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0036] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the
embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will
be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood
that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby
intended, and any alterations or modifications in the illustrated
device, and any further applications of the principles of the
invention as illustrated therein are contemplated as would normally
occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
[0037] Referring to FIGS. 1-7, there is shown an articulating bed
frame 10 in accordance with the present invention. Bed frame 10 can
be articulated between a fully reclined position 5 shown in FIGS. 2
and 3 and a fully inclined position 7 shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, as
well as all positions in between, such as intermediate position 6
shown in FIG. 5. Bed frame 10 generally includes a main frame 11, a
back section 12, a seat section 13, an upper leg section 14, a
lower leg section 15 and an articulation drive assembly indicated
generally at 16 (FIG. 5). Sections 12-15 are pivotally
interconnected along parallel, horizontal axes 19, 20 and 21, as
shown.
[0038] The fully reclined position, as used herein, refers to the
condition where all the bed sections members (back 12, seat 13,
upper leg 14 and lower leg 15) are juxtaposed in a generally
horizontal and co-planar position, as shown in FIG. 3. The fully
inclined position, as used herein, refers to the condition where
the same bed sections, through their pivotal interconnections, are
tilted relative to each other as far from the fully reclined
position as their linkages will allow, thereby inclining the back
section 12 and drawing in the leg sections 14 and 15, as shown in
FIG. 7, to form a slightly inverted "V" shape. Thus, the fully
reclined and fully inclined positions represent the extremes of
articulation of bed frame 10. Alternative embodiments contemplate
that bed sections 12-15 may be in different positions for these
extremes than are shown herein. For example, in one embodiment, the
fully reclined position may have back section 12 pivoted beyond
horizontal so that the patient's head is lowered below the rest of
his body.
[0039] Referring to FIGS. 9-11, main frame 11 is a generally
rectangular frame of tubular metal construction having opposing
front and rear rails 22 and 23, opposing side rails 24 and 25, a
pair of rear, upstanding linkage brackets 27 and 28, a pair of
rear, drive mounting brackets 29 and 30, and a pair of front,
roller mounting brackets 31 and 32. Roller mounting brackets 31 and
32 rotatably hold rollers 33 and 34. A pair of opposing, C-shaped
roller channels 35 and 36 are mounted atop side rails 24 and 25,
respectively, about midway between front and rear rails 22 and
23.
[0040] Back section 12 is a generally rectangular frame of tubular
metal construction and includes upper, middle and lower crossbars
38, 39 and 40 extending between opposing side arms 41 and 42,
respectively. A pair of pivot head braces 43 and 44 extend rigidly
between middle and lower crossbars 39 and 40, and braces 43 and 44
are spaced inwardly from side arms 41 and 42, respectively. First
and second linkage assemblies 47 and 48 connect back section 12
with main frame 11. First linkage assembly 47 includes a pair of
linkages 49 and 50, which are pivotally connected at their upper
ends at pins 51 and 52, respectively, to an upper region of braces
43 and 44, as shown. Linkages 49 and 50 are pivotally connected at
their opposing, lower ends to linkage brackets 27 and 28 by pins 53
and 54, respectively. Second linkage assembly 48 includes upper and
lower pivot tubes 55 and 56 that are rigidly connected to each
other by a pair of opposing connector tubes 57 and 58. Upper pivot
tube 55 is pivotally connected to, between and at the lower
portions of braces 43 and 44 by appropriate means such as pins 59
and 60. Lower pivot tube 56 is pivotally connected to and between
the side rails 24 and 25 of main frame 11 by appropriate means such
as pins 61 and 62. Main frame 11, back section 12 and linkage
assemblies 47 and 48 thus form a closed quadrilateral linkage
assembly that is limited to articulate between the fully reclined
position 5 of FIG. 3 and the fully inclined position 7 shown in
FIG. 7.
[0041] A back section cover plate 63 is fixedly secured to and atop
crossbars 38, 39 and 40 and side arms 41 and 42, cover plate 63
providing additional structural support for back section 12. A
plurality of holes with grommets 64 are provided in cover plate 63
for ventilation.
[0042] Also connected with back section 12 is a first drive linkage
assembly 65 (FIGS. 2 and 9). Assembly 65 includes a pair of drive
links 66 and 67 that are rigidly mounted to lower crossbar 40 of
back section 12 and extend downwardly therefrom for connection with
the drive assembly 16 as will be described herein.
[0043] Like back section 12, lower leg section 15 is a generally
rectangular frame of tubular metal construction and includes upper,
middle and lower crossbars 70, 71 and 72 extending between opposing
side rails 73 and 74, respectively. A pair of roller bars 75 and 76
are connected at their forward ends to connector brackets 77 and
78, which are fixedly connected to lower crossbar 72. At their
rearward ends, roller bars 75 and 76 are connected to the lower
ends of hanger links 79 and 80. Links 79 and 80 are connected at
their upper ends to connector brackets 81 and 82, which are
connected to middle crossbar 71. Forwardly, lower leg section 15,
and more particularly, roller bars 75 and 76, ride upon rollers 33
and 34. Roller bars 75 and 76, hanger links 79 and 80 and rollers
33 and 34 together form a track and guide assembly 85. Alternative
embodiments are contemplated wherein track and guide assembly 85
includes low friction slides instead of rollers 33 and 34 to permit
roller bars 75 and 76 to slide thereon. Alternatively, rollers or
sliding elements are contemplated to be mounted to lower leg
section 15 with track members mounted to or made as a part of main
frame 11. Other embodiments contemplate any suitable complementary
track and guide arrangement to permit lower leg section 15 to ride
along the forward end of main frame 11 either freely (as shown in
herein) or with some releasable restriction to permit lower leg
section to be easily folded over at axis 21 for transport, as
described herein. Rearwardly, lower leg section 15 is pivotally
connected to upper leg section 14 by pins 83 and 84. As with cover
plate 63, a lower section cover plate 86 with holes and grommets 64
is fixedly secured to crossbars 71 and 72 and side rails 73 and
74.
[0044] Upper leg section 14 comprises a rear crossbar 87 extending
between opposing side rails 88 and 89, respectively. A third
linkage assembly 90 connects the front end of upper leg section 14
to main frame 11 and includes upper and lower pivot tubes 91 an 92
that are rigidly connected to each other by a pair of opposing
connector tubes 94 and 95. Upper pivot tube 91 is pivotally
connected to and between side rails 88 and 89 by pins 96 and 97,
respectively. Lower pivot tube 92 is pivotally connected to and
between main frame side rails 24 and 25 by pins 98 and 99,
respectively. A support link assembly 101 includes a pair of
opposing support links 102 and 103 that are rigidly connected to
and extend downwardly from rear crossbar 87. At the bottom of each
support link 102 and 103 is rotatably connected a roller (one shown
at 104), each roller being received to ride within a corresponding
one of roller channels 35 and 36. In the present embodiment, roller
channels 35 and 36 are straight, which produces substantially
straight movement for the lower ends of links 102 and 103.
Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein roller channels 35
and 36 are at least partially non-linear to produce an alternative
path for the seat and upper leg sections 13 and 14, as desired.
Rearwardly, upper leg section 14 is pivotally connected to seat
section 13 by pins 106 and 107, respectively. An upper leg section
cover plate 109 has a generally C-shaped cross-section and is
fixedly secured to crossbar 87 and side rails 89 and 90 by
appropriate means such as welding.
[0045] Referring to FIGS. 9, 10 and 12, seat section 13 generally
comprises opposing side rails 111 and 112 that are pivotally
connected at their front ends by pins 106 and 107 to upper leg
section side rails 88 and 89, respectively. At their rear ends,
seat section side rails 111 and 112 are pivotally connected by pins
113 and 114 to the forward ends of back section side rails 41 and
42, respectively. A seat section plate 119 with holes and grommets
64 and a generally C-shaped cross-section is fixedly secured to
side rails 111 and 112 by appropriate means such as welding. Plate
119, in addition to providing a seat surface, also provides
additional structural support for seat section 13.
[0046] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 12, a drive actuator assembly 120
is connected with seat section 13. Drive actuator assembly 120
includes backing plates 121 and 122, rod 123, handles 124 and 125,
C-shaped connection plate 126, and a spring 127. Backing plates 121
and 122 are secured to the outsides of side rails 111 and 112. Rod
123 extends between side rails 111 and 112, through holes in side
rails 111 and 112 and plates 121 and 122, and outwardly of plates
121 and 122. Handles 124 and 125 are fixedly secured to the
opposing, outwardly extending ends of rod 123, as shown. Connection
plate 126 is generally C-shaped and is fixedly secured to rod 123
roughly midway between side rails 111 and 112. Rear and front
bumpers 128 and 129 are fixed to the right side of connection plate
126, roughly in line with rod 123, as shown in FIG. 12. Seat plate
119 includes flanges 130 and 131 that extend inwardly toward each
other and along the width of plate 119, and spring 127 is stretched
between and secured to flanges 130 and 131 to rest just below rod
123 and bumpers 128 and 129, as shown. By pulling or pushing either
handle 124 or 125, handles 124 and 125, rod 123 and connection
plate 126 all rotate as a unit about the axis of rod 123. Such
rotation causes bumpers 128 and 129 to press down against spring
127, and drive actuator assembly 120 is thus biased to stay in the
neutral position shown in FIG. 12.
[0047] Drive assembly 16 includes any apparatus suitable for
providing linear motion to drive links 66 and 67 of drive linkage
assembly 65. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-13, drive assembly 16
includes a worm gear assembly 132 and a gear reduction box 133.
Worm gear assembly 132 includes a threaded shaft or "worm" 134 and
a follower nut 135 that is driven by the rotation of worm 134
between a rearward position (shown at 136, FIG. 12) and a forward
position (shown in phantom at 137). A motor (not shown) is mounted
to support plate 138 and, through gear reduction box 133, drives
worm 134. Drive links 66 and 67 are connected at their lower ends
to follower nut 135 (a first connection end of drive assembly 16)
by appropriate means such as thumb screws (one of two screws on
opposing sides of worm gear assembly 132 shown at 146 in FIG. 5).
Drive assembly 16 is supported at its rearward end (a second
connection end of drive assembly 16) by support rods 139 and 140,
which are each connected at one end to gear reduction box 133 and
at the opposite end to a corresponding drive mounting bracket 29
and 30, respectively. The rotating movement of connection plate 126
controls the operation of drive assembly 16 through connection with
a transducer 141 that is supported by a mounting bracket 142
extending down from seat section plate 119. A connection element
144 transmits the motion of connection plate 126 to transducer 141,
and the transducer output is relayed to gear reduction box 133 by a
suitable cable 143 where it governs the operation of the motor and
gear reduction box 133.
[0048] In operation from the fully inclined position 7 (FIGS.
8-12), pulling either handle 124 or 125 rotates rod 123 and
connection plate 126 which, through transducer 141, actuates drive
assembly 16 to rotate worm 134 and move follower nut 135 and the
drive links 66 and 67 forwardly. Bed frame sections 12-15 thereby
move relative to each other and main frame 11 toward the fully
reclined position 5 until either handles 124 and 125 are released
or until bed frame 10 reaches the fully reclined position 5. If
handles 124 and 125 are released before reaching the fully reclined
position 5, spring 127 biases drive actuator assembly 120 back to
the neutral position whereupon drive assembly 16 is switched off.
Alternatively, should handles 124 or 125 be held in rearwardly
rotated positions, whereby worm 134 continues to be forced to
rotate, follower nut 135 is constructed such that it will stop
moving once a physical limit is reached, either because bed frame
sections 12-15 are physically unable to articulate any farther, or
because a physical element associated with worm gear assembly 132
precludes further translation of follower nut 135 along worm 134.
This removes the possibility of damaging the bed frame elements,
particularly the drive assembly 16 and motor (not shown). Reversing
the handle input (i.e. now pushing the handles 124 and 125
forwardly) actuates drive assembly 16 in the opposite direction,
and bed frame 10 is articulated toward the fully inclined position
7. The same limiting elements are provided for limiting movement of
follower nut 135 beyond a predefined extreme relating to the fully
inclined position 7. Alternative embodiments are contemplated
wherein the travel limit of follower nut 135 is defined by an
electronic, optical audio or similar sensor of any appropriate type
that senses the position of follower nut 135 and electronically
and/or mechanically stops the rotation of worm 134 and/or the
translation of follower nut 135.
[0049] Of particular importance in the configuration and assembly
of bed frame 10 is the location of upper crossbar 38 of back
section 12 relative to the rear rail 23 of main frame 11. As bed
frame 11 is articulated between the fully reclined and fully
inclined positions, the rearward end of back section 12 (which is
upper crossbar 38) stays substantially vertically aligned with the
rear end of main frame 11 (which is rear rail 23). Bed frame 10
thus exhibits a significant wall-hugging feature whereby, during
articulation toward the fully inclined position (FIG. 7), the
forward end of back section 12 (lower cross bar 40) is drawn
rearwardly, while the rearward end (upper crossbar 38) moves very
little horizontally. In relative terms, during articulation from
the fully reclined to the fully inclined position, the rearward end
(38) of back section 12 is desired to move horizontally forward
about 25% or less of what the forward end (40) of back section 12
moves horizontally rearward. Consequently, a person lying on bed
frame 10 will remain in substantially the same horizontal position
relative to a bed table or cabinet that is typically located to one
side and at the head of the bed. As used herein, the fully inclined
and reclined positions are meant to include this wall-hugging
feature whereby the rearward end of back section 12 (here, upper
crossbar 38) stays substantially vertically aligned with the
rearward end of bed frame 10 (here, rear rail 23), as shown in
FIGS. 2-7. In practice, it may be desirable for the rearward end
(38) to move at least slightly forwardly during articulation from
the fully reclined position so that the rearward end (38) of back
section 12 does not contact any structures that may be protruding
from a wall behind the bed, such as a picture or medical equipment
or connections therefor.
[0050] Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the lengths
and positionment of the various linkages are modified slightly, the
result of which is that, during articulation from the fully
reclined to the fully inclined position, the rearward end (38) of
back section 12 moves horizontally forward slightly greater than
25% of what the forward end (40) of back section 12 moves
horizontally rearward. While the configuration of the present
invention permits such adjustment, it is preferred that the ratio
of forward movement of the rearward end (38) to the rearward
movement of forward end (40) be maintained at about 1 to 4 or less
than 1 to 4.
[0051] With support link assembly 101 mounted at its bottom end for
substantially horizontally linear travel in roller channels 35 and
36, and mounted at its top end proximal to pivot axis 20, and thus
substantially adjacent to the forward end of seat section 13, the
forward end of seat section 13 moves in a substantially horizontal
path. Likewise, the bottom end of first drive linkage assembly 65
moves in a substantially horizontally linear path, and the top end
is mounted substantially adjacent to the rear end of seat section
13. Consequently, as bed frame 10 is articulated between the fully
reclined and fully inclined positions, seat section 13 remains
substantially horizontal. Also, as shown in FIGS. 2-7, the greatest
overall length of bed frame 10 occurs in the fully reclined
position (FIGS. 2 and 3). As bed frame 10 is articulated toward the
fully inclined position, the overall length of bed frame 10 is
reduced. In addition, the rearmost extent of bed frame 10 is
defined by main frame 11, which does not move during articulation.
Therefore, if bed frame 10 is positioned against a wall at the rear
or head of the bed frame, articulation of the bed frame will not
result in contact of back section 12 with the wall unless the
entire bed frame is moved.
[0052] An easily removable headboard (not shown) and foot board 149
are provided as desired to maintain the position of a mattress (not
shown) that is positioned atop articulating bed frame 10. Side
rails (not shown) are also provided in a known manner, as
appropriate. Vertically adjustable caster sleeves 148 are connected
to main frame 11 and are sized and shaped to receive casters (not
shown).
[0053] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, articulating bed frame 10 can
be folded for ease of transport. The transport position is achieved
by first removing any headboard or foot board (as necessary), and
then by folding lower leg section 15 about 180 degrees from its
position in the fully reclined position 5, about axis 21, over and
against upper leg section 14 (and seat section 13, depending on the
length of lower leg section 15). In the transport position,
articulating bed frame 10 is more compact and may be tilted on end,
as shown, for movement by hand or with the use of a two-wheel cart
or similar device. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein
lower leg section 15 is folded somewhat less than 180 degrees and
to a position not quite against upper leg section 13. While this
may be necessary to accommodate some other feature of bed frame 10,
such as a particular control apparatus or restraint device, it is
preferred that leg frame 15 be able to be folded all the way over
and flat against upper leg frame 14 for transport.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 15 there is shown an articulating bed
frame 150 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the
present invention. Like bed frame 10, articulating bed frame 150
includes substantially the same components, such as pivotally
interconnected back, seat, upper leg and lower leg sections 151,
152, 153 and 154 that are connected to a main frame 157 by first,
second and third linkage assemblies 158, 159 and 160 and support
link assembly 161. A first drive linkage assembly 163 includes a
pair of drive links (one of two, generally side-by-side links shown
at 164) that are each rigidly mounted to lower crossbar 166 of back
section 151 and that extends downwardly therefrom for pivotal
connection with a first, output end 167 of an articulation drive
assembly 168. A second drive linkage assembly 169 includes a pair
of drive links (one of two side-by-side links shown at 170) that
are each rigidly mounted to upper pivot tube 172 of third linkage
assembly 160 and that extends downwardly therefrom for pivotal
connection with a second, mounting end 174 of articulation drive
assembly 168. Articulation drive assembly 168 is thus essentially
pivotally connected to third linkage assembly 160 at point somewhat
spaced between upper leg section 153 and main frame 157.
Articulation drive assembly 168, like drive assembly 16 of bed
frame 10, articulates bed frame 150 between a fully reclined
position (like that shown in FIGS. 2 and 3) and a fully inclined
position of FIG. 15 (and like that shown in FIGS. 6 and 7), as well
as all positions in between. In one embodiment, articulation drive
assembly 168 comprises a linear actuator 175 model LA31 from Linak
U.S. Inc of Louisville, Ky. Linear actuator 175 has a thrust
maximum push of 1349 lb.sub.f, a thrust maximum pull of 899
lb.sub.f and a stroke length of up to 11.82 inches. With linear
actuator 175 actuated to the extended position, as shown, bed frame
150 is articulated to the fully inclined position. When linear
actuator 175 is actuated to the retracted position (not shown), bed
frame 150 will be articulated to the fully reclined positioned
(like that shown in FIGS. 2 and 3). Actuation of linear actuator
175 is controlled by a user with a suitable keypad or similar
device (not shown) electrically connected with linear actuator 175
in a known manner. Power is provided to linear actuator 175 through
a standard 110v wall socket.
[0055] Linear actuator 175 may be any device that is connectable at
opposing ends between first and second drive linkage assemblies 163
and 169 and operable to pull and push the distal ends of the drive
linkage assemblies 163 and 169 together and apart to articulate bed
frame 150 between the fully reclined and fully inclined positions
described and shown herein.
[0056] The leg section 154 of bed frame 150 also differs from bed
frame 10 in that there are no roller bars 75 and 76 nor hangar
links 79 and 80. Instead, front roller mounting brackets 176 and
177 (FIGS. 15 and 16) extend up higher from main frame 157 than
roller mounting brackets 31 and 32 of bed frame 10. Also, there is
no middle crossbar 71 in the lower leg section, but instead lower
leg section 154 includes central rails 178 and 179 that extend
between upper and lower crossbars 180 and 181 and are parallel to
side rails 182 and 183. Lower leg section 154, and more
particularly, central rails 178 and 179, ride upon the raised
rollers 186 and 187 of front roller mounting brackets 176 and
177.
[0057] Bed frame 150 is also provided with a vertical adjustment
apparatus for raising and lowering main frame 157 relative to the
ground 188, the apparatus generally including a bed lift drive
assembly 190 and four identical castor assemblies, one at each
corner of main frame 157 (two shown at 191 and 192). Castor
assemblies such as those shown at 191 and 192 are well known and
each generally includes a support arm 194 and a control arm 195
pivotally mounted at a proximal end to main frame 157 by separate
axles 196 and 197. At their distal ends, each arm 194 and 195 is
pivotally mounted at separate pivot points 199 and 200 to a single
castor leg 201. This configuration permits castor leg 201 to
maintain a constant vertical angle as it rises and falls relative
to main frame 157. The pivotal connection of support arm 194 to
main frame 157 is achieved by support arm 194 being fixedly
connected to axle 196. Axle 196 generally extends between opposing
bed frame side rails (one of two opposing and parallel rails shown
at 202) and is held for rotation at each such side rail by a
bracket (one of two brackets shown at 203) that is fixed to its
respective side rail (202). There are thus two such axles--a rear
axle 196 and a front axle 207--extending between the opposing side
rails of bed frame 157. Rear axle 196 connects the left, rear
support arm 194 of bed lift castor assembly 191 with the right,
rear support arm (not shown) of the right, rear castor assembly
(not shown), the two rear support arms thus rotating as a unit
about the axis of axle 196. Likewise, at the front of bed frame 10,
the support arms (one of two shown at 208) of front bed lift castor
assemblies (one of two shown at 192) are fixedly tied together to
rotate as a unit by and with axle 207.
[0058] A radial arm 209 extends rigidly and radially from axle 196,
between opposing side rails (one shown at 202). Referring to FIGS.
15 and 17, a pair of radial arms 211 and 212 extend rigidly from a
sleeve 214 that is mounted for rotation about front axle 207. A pin
215 is connected to extend between the distal ends of arms 211 and
212. A long connection link 216 is pivotally connected between the
distal end of radial arm 209 and arm 212, as shown. A pair of
rocker arms 218 and 219 extend rigidly and radially from front axle
207, just outside of radial arms 211 and 212. A limit pin 220 is
connected to extend between the distal ends of rocker arms 218 and
219 and on the clockwise side of radial arms 211 and 212, as viewed
in FIG. 15. A limit catch 222 is pivotally mounted at pin 223 to a
bracket 224, which is fixedly mounted to front rail 225 of main
frame 157. Limit catch 222 defines a hook 228 extending generally
rearwardly of pin 223 and defines a foot pedal 229 extending
generally downwardly and forwardly of pin 223. Limit catch 222 is
configured so that depression of foot pedal 229 from the front will
pivot limit catch 222 about pin 223, whereby hook 228 will hook up
under limit pin 220 and prevent rocker arms 218 and 219 from
rotating counterclockwise, as viewed in FIG. 15.
[0059] Bed lift drive assembly 190 has a mounting end 231 that is
mounted to a bracket 232 that is fixed to a crossbar 233 that
extends between the opposing side rails (one shown at 202) of main
frame 157. Drive assembly 190 has an output spindle 235 that is
operable to extend and retract relative to the mounting end 231,
and the distal, output end 236 of spindle 235 is pivotally mounted
to pin 215, which is connected to the distal ends of radial arms
211 and 212. In one embodiment, like articulation drive assembly
168, bed lift drive assembly 190 comprises a suitable linear
actuator available from Linak U.S. Inc of Louisville, Ky., but may
comprise any device capable of extendable and retractable
connection between a point on main frame 157 and at least one of
radial arms 211 or 212. Actuation of bed lift drive assembly 190 is
controlled by a user with a suitable keypad or similar device (not
shown) electrically connected with bed lift drive assembly 190 in a
known manner.
[0060] The operation of the vertical adjustment apparatus of bed
frame 150 will now be described. Reference to clockwise and
counterclockwise rotations and other movement and positional
movements relative to bed frame 150 are as viewed in FIG. 15. In
operation and with limit catch in a deactivated position (as shown
in FIG. 15), retraction actuation of bed lift drive assembly 190
pulls radial arms 212 and 209 to rotate counterclockwise.
Consequently, support arm 194 and control arm 195 rotate about
their mounting points at 196 and 197, respectively, and castor leg
201 rises relative to main frame 157. Also, at the front of bed
frame 150, radial arms 211 and 212 are caused to rotate
counterclockwise. With the axis of front axle 207 being offset from
the front castor legs (one of two shown at 230), the weight of bed
frame 157 biases axle 207 to rotate counterclockwise, such rotation
only limited by limit pin 220 bearing on the clockwise underside of
radial arms 211 and 212. As radial arms 211 and 212 rotate
counterclockwise about the axis of axle 207, so do rocker arms 218
and 219, and the front castor legs also rise relative to main frame
157, and the front of main frame 157 drops. If limit catch 222 is
actuated by depressing foot pedal 229 to cause hook 228 toward
engagement with limit pin 220, when radial arms 211 and 212 rotate
counterclockwise, rocker arms 218 and 219 rotate with them until
hook 228 engages limit pin 220. Then rocker arms 218 and 219 are
prevented from rotating counterclockwise any further. Radial arms
211 and 212 can continue to rotate (via drive assembly 190) and,
consequently, only the rear portion of bed frame 157 is
lowered.
[0061] Extension actuation of bed lift drive assembly 190 rotates
all of radial arms 209, 211 and 212 clockwise. If limit catch 222
was not engaged, both the front and rear portions of main frame 157
will rise equally. If limit catch 222 was engaged, the front will
begin to raise as soon as radial arms 211 and 212 rotate clockwise
to engage limit pin 220 at which point rocker arms will be rotated
clockwise, as well, which will move limit pin out of engagement
with hook 228. Limit catch 222 is configured and mounted to bracket
224 to be biased toward a rest position, disengaged from limit pin
220 (as shown in FIG. 15) until it is depressed and held by foot
pedal 229.
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 18-20, there is shown an articulating bed
frame 250 in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention. Bed frame 250 comprises the bed frame 10 of FIGS. 1-14
along with an articulating side rail assembly 255. Bed frame 10 of
FIGS. 1-14 has been thoroughly described herein and like reference
numbers will be used, as necessary, for the common parts of bed
frame 10 in bed frame 250. Side rail assembly 255 includes a handle
assembly 259, mounting bracket 260, first and second linkage arms
261 and 262, side rail position control assembly 266 and control
unit 267. Handle assembly 259 includes connector brackets 263 and
264 and a handle 265. As shown in FIG. 19, mounting bracket 260
includes a mounting plate 271 and a mounting tube 272 that rigidly
connects plate 271 to the side and at the rear end of the main
frame 11 of bed frame 10. Tube 272 extends outwardly of main frame
11 at a slight incline to ensure sufficient clearance for linkage
arms 261 and 262 when bed frame 10 is lowered to its fully reclined
position 5.
[0063] Linkage arms 261 and 262 are each freely, pivotally
connected at one end to mounting plate 271 by pins 273 and 274,
which constitutes first and second pivot axes, respectively. As
with any of the "pins" referred to herein for pivotal connection of
one element to another, such pin is contemplated to comprise any
appropriate means that securely permits relative pivotal movement
between the connected elements including, but not limited to some
combination of bolts, nuts, washers, wear rings, rivets, pins,
and/or lock rings. The mounting of linkage arms 261 and 262 to
mounting plate 271 is such that the pivot axes of pins 273 and 274
are spaced apart and along a line 277 that is preferably at between
about 40.degree. and 50.degree. to horizontal, which arrangement
provides sufficient clearance and range for side rail assembly 255
to pivot between its down position 278 (FIG. 18) and up position
279 (FIG. 25), as described herein. At their upper ends, linkage
arms 261 and 262 are freely, pivotably connected to connector
brackets 263 and 264, as shown, by pins 283 and 284, which
constitutes third and fourth pivot axes, respectively. Connector
brackets 263 and 264 are substantially identical and sandwich
linkage arms 261 and 262 therebetween (FIG. 20).
[0064] Handle 265 is a generally C-shaped tubular member with
angled, top, front and bottom sections 286, 287, 288 and 289,
respectively. A generally C-shaped auxiliary handle 292 is rigidly
connected to and extends upwardly from bottom section 289, as
shown. Likewise, control unit 267 is rigidly connected to and
extends upwardly from bottom section 289, as shown. Control unit
267 replaces the drive actuator assembly 120 of bed frame 10 and
electronically connects with and controls drive assembly 16 or any
similar suitable device employed for articulating bed frame 10
between its fully reclined and fully inclined positions. Control
unit 267 includes at least two buttons 293 (incline) and 294
(recline). Auxiliary handle 292 extends up toward top section 287,
but is sufficiently spaced down from top section 287 to enable a
person on bed frame 250 to easily reach between auxiliary handle
292 and top section 287 and access control unit 267 which,
concordantly, extends up from bottom section 289 enough to position
buttons 293 and 294 generally in alignment with the gap between top
section 287 and auxiliary handle 292. Further, because control unit
267 and auxiliary handle 292 are connected only with bottom section
289, a person gripping side rail assembly 255 can grasp handle 265
at generally any position along angle, top or front sections 286,
287 or 288 without encountering another structural element
connected thereto. That is, such person can wrap his hand
completely around the tubular rail and can easily slide it along
angle, top and front sections 286, 287 and 288, unimpeded by a
structural bar that, for example, might tee into top section
287.
[0065] Because handle 265 is generally C-shaped, a friction grip
296 of rubber or similar grip-friendly material can be slid on from
the angled section end and into position covering much of top
section 287 and front section 288. Grip 296 may be smooth, ribbed
or of any desired surface configuration or material to provide a
comfortable and grip-enhancing surface for the bed user. Grip 296
may be sized longer or shorter than shown in FIG. 18, as
desired.
[0066] Handle 265 is immovably connected at the inboard ends of its
angle section 286 and bottom section 289 to connector brackets 263
and 264 at upper pin 297 and lower pins 298 and 299, with such
inboard ends of angled section 286 and bottom section 289 being
sandwiched between brackets 263 and 264 (FIG. 20). Handle 265 and
connector brackets 263 and 264 thus constitute handle assembly 259,
which moves as a unit and in a substantially constant horizontal
orientation between the down and up positions 278 and 279,
respectively. Connector brackets 263 and 264 (identical to each
other) are shaped as shown in FIG. 20 with holes at one end 300 for
pins 283 and 297 and at their opposite ends 301 for pins 284, 298
and 299. Holes are defined in brackets 263 and 264 midway between
ends 300 and 301 (as at 302) for pivoting connection to the set
link 305 of side rail position control assembly 266, as described
herein.
[0067] Side rail position control assembly 266 includes a set link
305 pivotally connected at one end by a pin 306 to and sandwiched
between brackets 263 and 264. At its opposite end, set link 305
defines a closed-ended slot 307 with two notches 308 and 309. Notch
308 is at the inboard end of slot 307. There is no notch at the
outboard end 310 (FIG. 22) of slot 307, and notch 309 is midway
between notch 308 and outboard end 310. The length of slot 307 and
relative positionment of the slots (308 and 309 and/or other slots
that may be desired) defines the set positions of side rail
assembly 255, as described herein. A guide arm 312 extends from
linkage arm 261 to hold a set pin 313 that extends into and follows
within slot 307. A knob 314 is provided on set link 305 to enable
and facilitate manual engagement and disengagement of position
control assembly 266.
[0068] In operation, from the down position 278 (FIG. 18), handle
265 may be grasped and lifted upwardly, whereby side rail assembly
255 will pivot at pins 273 and 274 relative to main frame 11 and
articulate toward up position 279 (FIG. 25). Before reaching the up
position 279, set pin 313 will drop into middle notch 309, and side
rail assembly 255 will be releasably locked in an intermediate
position 318 (FIGS. 21-23). To articulate side rail assembly 255 to
the full up position 279, knob 314 is grasped and lifted, thereby
pivoting set link 305 about pin 306 and causing set pin 313 to drop
out of slot 307. Handle 265 can then be lifted to the full up
position 279, whereby set pin 313 will drop into inboard notch 308
and lock side rail assembly 255 in the full up position 279 (FIG.
25). It is noted that the full down position 278 of side rail
assembly 255 is defined by the position of the outboard end 310 of
slot 307 (that is, the end of slot 307 farthest from the attachment
of link 305 at pin 306). Thus, when set pin 313 reaches the
outboard end 310 of slot 307, side rail assembly 255 cannot
articulate any farther down. Likewise, the inboard end of slot 307
at notch 308 defines the upper limit of articulation of side rail
assembly 255. The shape of slot 307, that is, its length and any
notches or other deviations from a straight configuration, defines
the movement of set link 305 as side rail assembly 255 is
articulated and primarily defines the releasable locking positions
for side rail assembly 255. As such, the term notches, as used
herein, is contemplated to include such other deviations in slot
307 from a straight configuration that might be used to provide
variable releasably locking positions. It is also noted that, to
the extent pin 313 reaches the outboard end 310 of slot 307 and
defines or contributes to limiting further downward movement of
handle assembly 259, side rail assembly 255 is considered there to
be releasably locked in the down position 278, it being held there
by gravity. A pivot stop 319 rigidly extends outwardly from
mounting plate 271 and is juxtaposed relative to the pivot axis of
pin 273 and the diameter of linkage arm 261 so that when set pin
313 engages outboard end 310 of slot 307, linkage arm 261 engages
stop 319, the latter also preventing any further clockwise rotation
of linkage arm 261 about pin 273 (as viewed in FIG. 18). Stop 319
thus provides additional stability and support for side rail
assembly 255 at its down position 278 in view of significant
downwardly directed user forces that may be applied to side rail
assembly 255.
[0069] As described with reference to bed frame 10 of FIGS. 1-14,
the bed sections and linkage assemblies are sized, shaped and
connected so that, upon articulation, a person lying on bed frame
10 (that is, typically on a mattress on bed frame 10) will remain
in substantially the same horizontal position relative to a bed
table or cabinet typically located to one side and at the head of
the bed. concordantly, with bed frame 250, with side rail assembly
255 mounted directly to main frame 11 (instead of to any of the
articulating bed sections (12-15) or corresponding linkage
assemblies), such person will remain in substantially the same
horizontal position relative to articulating side rail assembly
255. As shown comparing FIGS. 22 and 23, articulation of bed frame
10 between the intermediate position 6 (FIG. 22) and fully inclined
position 7 (FIG. 23), handle 265 remains in substantially the same
horizontal position relative to back section 12. Likewise, the
sizes, shapes and connections of the components of side rail
assembly 255 are designed so that articulation of side rail
assembly 255 will cause handle 265 to move in a path whereby
connector brackets 263 and 264 stay closely aligned with back
section 12. Thus, any two or more set positions for side rail
assembly 255 (such as down position 278 and intermediate position
318) will provide relatively the same arm comfort position for the
bed user.
[0070] Notches 308 and 309 of set link 305 are angled relative to
the main, generally linear portion of slot 307 so that set pin 313
will automatically enter and stay in notches 308 and 309 as side
rail is articulated between the up and down positions. Entry into
notches 308 and 309 will generally be gravity assisted, but
alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein an appropriate
biasing means is provided to urge set link 305 to rotate
counterclockwise (as viewed in FIG. 18) about pin 306, and thus
ensure that set pin 313 will automatically enter and stay in a
notch 308 or 309 until manually dislodged therefrom. Such biasing
means includes, but is not limited to springs of various shapes,
sizes and configurations such as, but not limited to coil, leaf and
helical metal springs or rubber elements, all of such biasing
devices being known in the art.
[0071] Alternative embodiments are contemplated where set link 305
has more or fewer notches than the two notches 308 and 309 to
provide more or less than the three set positions for side rail
assembly 255 described herein.
[0072] It is noted that linkage arms 261 and 262, brackets 263 and
264 and mounting plate 271 are sized and configured so that pins
273, 274, 283 and 284 generally define a parallelogram. Referring
to the diagram of FIG. 26, the connections and relative distances
among pins 273, 274, 283 and 284 are represented by lines a through
d (linkage arm, 261 linkage arm 262, mounting plate 271 and
brackets 263/264, respectively). In the present embodiment, a=b and
c=d, and the figure abcd is a parallelogram. Alternative
embodiments are contemplated wherein the distances between various
pins 273, 274, 283 and 284 vary from that of FIG. 26 or are
manually or mechanically variable. For example, either a>b (FIG.
27) or a<b. In either case c may equal d or be greater or less
than d. Or, either c>d (FIG. 28) or c<d. In either case a may
equal, or be greater or less than b. Other embodiments are
contemplated where any one or more of links a, b, c or may be made
adjustable. For example, and without limitation, link a may be
manually or mechanically adjustable by any appropriate
configuration that enables a person to vary the length of link a.
One such configuration is shown in FIG. 29 where link a comprises a
base plate 328 and a set bar 329. Base plate 328 is pivotally
connected at one end to mounting plate 271 by pin 273 and has
defined therein a series of spaced apart holes 330 at its opposite
end. Set bar is pivotally mounted at its one end to connector
brackets 263 and 264 and has a set pin 331 at its opposite end. Set
pin 331 can be releasably locked in any one of holes 330 to vary
the combined length of base plate 328 and set bar 329, and thus,
the length of link a (the distance between pins 273 and 283.)
[0073] It is noted that side rail assembly 255 provides mounting at
one narrowly dimensioned location near the rear of bed frame 10,
and the components of side rail assembly 255 may thus be moved out
of the way of other elements of bed frame 10 when side rail
assembly 255 is articulated to its up position 279. This is
accomplished, in part, because the pivotal mounting points of
linkage arms 261 and 262 at pins 273 and 274 are closely spaced
together and in the angled configuration, that is, between about 40
degrees and 50 degrees from horizontal. Further, in the down
position, handle assembly 259 is entirely lateral of the first and
second pivot axes (pins 273 and 274). That is, as viewed in FIG.
18, the left-most portion of handle assembly 259 (roughly pivot pin
283) is entirely to the right of the right-most portion of first
and second pivot axes (pins 273 and 274). This configuration
further permits handle assembly 259 to move vertically a
considerable distance, while achieving a substantially compact down
position. This results, in part, because of the ratio between the
length of the linkage arms 261 and 262 (lengths a and b) and the
span between pivot pins 273 and 274 and between pivot pins 283 and
284 (lengths c and d, respectively). Preferably, both a and b are
between 2 and 3 times both c and d, and in one embodiment, a and b
are both between about 2.5 and 2.8 times both c and d.
[0074] Another embodiment is shown in FIG. 30 where mounting plate
271 is provided with a series of holes 334, and pin 274 releasably,
pivotally connects link b (linkage arm 262) to link c (mounting
plate 271) at any desired one of holes 339.
[0075] Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein side rail
position control assembly 266 is configured alternatively, the
principal operation of which is to provide releasable setting of
side rail assembly 255 at and between the up and down positions,
279 and 278, respectively. Such alternative configurations include,
but are not limited to a base plate and set bar configuration (as
shown in FIG. 29). Another configuration is shown in FIG. 31 where
a protractor plate 336 is rigidly connected to connector bracket
263 and has three holes defined along an arcuate portion thereof,
as shown. In the down position 278, upper linkage arm 261 is
pivotally connected at its outboard end to protractor plate 336 by
a releasable pin or knob 337 extending through then aligned locking
holes 338 (in protractor plate 336) and in linkage arm 261 (latter
hole in arm 261 not shown). Two other locking holes 339 and 340
along protractor plate 336 provide settings for side rail assembly
255 at the up position 279 and intermediate position 318,
respectively, as shown. Releasable pin or knob 337, like other such
set pins referred to herein, may comprise any appropriate element
such as, and without limitation, a pin and knob combination that is
spring biased (not shown) to cause such knob to automatically
engage and stay engaged until manually released. Knob 337 may also
include an enhanced releasable locking feature, such as being
threadedly received by one or both of linkage arm 261 and
protractor plate 336, which would allow the user to tighten side
rail assembly 255 in the desired position. Alternative embodiments
are contemplated wherein pin 313 has a similar lockability
configuration, as with a threaded bolt feature, to enable side rail
assembly 255 of FIG. 18 to be releasably locked in a desired
position, either at notches 308 or 309 or end 310, or anywhere in
between. This would provide a more stable "releasable locking" of
side rail assembly 255, at least in the down position. Such
spring-biased and/or threaded pin and knob combinations are common
and well known elements.
[0076] Other alternative configurations are contemplated to include
active connections devices such as, but not limited to, a powered
actuator similar to linear actuator 175, such actuator being
connected between pins 306 and 313. Control of such actuator would
be provided at control unit 267 to enable access by the person in
the bed to remotely articulate side rail assembly 255.
[0077] The present embodiment is shown with just one side rail
assembly 255, which is mounted to the right side of bed frame 10. A
similar, but mirror-image side rail assembly (not shown) is
contemplated to be directly connected to main frame 11 on the left
side of bed frame 10. Such left-side side rail assembly may carry
no control unit, the only control unit 267, or a second control
unit (not shown). In the latter case, such second control unit
could be configured and wired to control the vertical adjustment
apparatus (e.g. the bed lift drive assembly 190 of FIG. 15), a
radio or television, or any other desired apparatus or
communication device.
[0078] While the invention has been illustrated and described in
detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be
considered as illustrated and not restrictive in character, it
being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown
and described and that all changes and modifications that come
within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.
* * * * *