U.S. patent application number 17/232627 was filed with the patent office on 2021-07-29 for beds.
This patent application is currently assigned to Ammique Limited. The applicant listed for this patent is Ammique Limited. Invention is credited to Colin Jack GREENHALGH, Marlene Claire GREENHALGH.
Application Number | 20210227988 17/232627 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005579070 |
Filed Date | 2021-07-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210227988 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
GREENHALGH; Marlene Claire ;
et al. |
July 29, 2021 |
BEDS
Abstract
The present invention relates to beds having a support surface
defined by a plurality of support members. According to some
aspects the support members are sprung and the bed includes a
damping system for example a damping arm, for damping vibrations of
the springs. According to some aspects the support members have
laterally extending pusher members arranged to engage with adjacent
support members; the pusher members comprising damping material.
According to some aspects the support members are received by a
guide member made up of two parts arranged to retain a spring by
engaging between the coils of the spring. The present invention
also relates to bed frames comprising a plurality of movable side
elements mounted for movement in a direction substantially normal
to the body support surface. The side elements are resiliently
urged towards an unloaded position. The present invention also
relates to methods of manufacturing beds.
Inventors: |
GREENHALGH; Marlene Claire;
(Midsomer Norton, GB) ; GREENHALGH; Colin Jack;
(Midsomer Norton, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ammique Limited |
Midsomer Norton |
|
GB |
|
|
Assignee: |
Ammique Limited
Midsomer Norton
GB
|
Family ID: |
1000005579070 |
Appl. No.: |
17/232627 |
Filed: |
April 16, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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15743992 |
Jan 11, 2018 |
11019933 |
|
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PCT/GB2016/052100 |
Jul 12, 2016 |
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17232627 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47C 23/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47C 23/04 20060101
A47C023/04 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 14, 2015 |
GB |
1512315.1 |
Claims
1. A bed frame comprising a side for bordering a body support
surface of a bed, wherein: the side comprises a plurality of
movable side elements mounted for movement in a direction
substantially normal to the body support surface; and the movable
side elements are resiliently urged towards an unloaded position;
and wherein the movable side elements are so arranged that movement
of a first movable side element, beyond a threshold distance
relative to a second adjacent movable side element, causes movement
of the second adjacent movable side element in substantially the
same direction as the first movable side element.
2. A bed frame according to claim 1, wherein there is substantially
no movement of the second adjacent movable side element, caused by
the movement of the first movable side element, when the distance
of relative movement is below the threshold distance.
3. A bed frame according to claim 2, wherein the first movable side
element comprises a laterally extending pusher member, and wherein
movement of the first movable side element beyond the threshold
distance causes the pusher member to push the second adjacent
movable side element in substantially the same direction.
4. A bed frame according to claim 1, wherein the movable side
elements each comprise an upper portion which defines a portion of
an upper edge of side.
5. A bed frame according to claim 1, wherein the movable side
elements are moveably mounted to a support structure.
6. A bed frame according to claim 5, wherein the support structure
comprises a plurality of base elements, each base element being
associated with a movable side element.
7. A bed frame according to claim 6, wherein the base elements are
removably attached to each other.
8. A bed frame according to claim 5, wherein the movable side
elements are slidably mounted to the support structure.
9. A bed frame according to claim 5, wherein the support structure
comprises a height adjustable support arranged to receive a
mattress, the height adjustable support being arranged to allow the
relative height of the mattress and the side to be altered.
10. A bed frame according to claim 1, wherein the side comprises
more than 10 of the movable side elements.
11. A bed frame according to claim 1, wherein each of the movable
side elements has a length, measured in a direction along the
length of the side, of between 100 mm and 300 mm.
12. A bed comprising: a body support surface and a frame comprising
a side arranged to border the body support surface, wherein: the
side comprises a plurality of movable side elements mounted for
movement in a direction substantially normal to the body support
surface; and the movable side elements are resiliently urged
towards an unloaded position; and wherein the movable side elements
are so arranged that movement of a first movable side element,
beyond a threshold distance relative to a second adjacent movable
side element, causes movement of the second adjacent movable side
element in substantially the same direction as the first movable
side element.
13. A bed according to claim 12, wherein the body support surface
is defined by a plurality of body support members; wherein each
support member is mounted for movement in a direction substantially
normal to the support surface.
14. A bed according to claim 13, wherein the movable side elements
are arranged to interact with the support members such that
movement of the support surface and movement of the movable side
elements is interdependent.
15. A bed according to claim 14, wherein movement of the first
movable side element in a direction substantially normal to the
support surface, and beyond a threshold distance relative to one or
more adjacent support members, causes movement of said adjacent
support members in substantially the same direction as the first
movable side element.
16. A bed according to claim 12, wherein the body support surface
is provided by a mattress.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims
the benefit of, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/743,992 filed
on Jul. 12, 2016, which claims priority to International
Application No. PCT/GB2016/052100 filed on Jul. 12, 2016, which
claims priority to GB Patent Application No. 1512315.1 filed on
Jul. 14, 2015. The subject matter thereof is hereby incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD
[0002] The present invention concerns improvements to beds. In
particular, although not exclusively, aspects of this invention
concern improvements to beds which comprise a support surface
defined by a plurality of individual support members. Other aspects
of this invention concern improvements to bed frames. The invention
also concerns methods of manufacturing such a bed.
BACKGROUND
[0003] The structure of a conventional bed is well known.
Typically, a mattress is provided on a bed frame. The mattress
supports a user's body and attempts to conform to the shape of the
user in order to increase the contact area with the user, thereby
reducing the pressure on a particular part of the user's body.
[0004] A common type of mattress is a spring mattress. Spring
mattresses typically comprise a fabric case housing a plurality of
vertically arranged springs which deform under the weight of the
user. The audible noise generated by deformation of the springs and
vibration of the springs is typically low. This is due to the
presence of the outer layers of the mattress which are effective at
damping these vibrations. This is especially true with modern
mattresses which often include several outer layers of material.
Prior art mattresses also include pocket spring mattresses, in
which the springs are individually encased in their own fabric
pocket. Here the fabric pockets will further help to damp the
vibrations in the springs.
[0005] Mattresses suffer from various disadvantages however. Dust,
dirt, moisture and other undesirable foreign matter can collect and
be absorbed in the mattress. Dust mites can thrive in a used
mattress, giving rise to allergic reactions to certain users of the
mattress. Mattresses are typically difficult to keep clean and/or
difficult to clean, when dirty.
[0006] Mattresses can suffer from the "roll together" effect,
whereby two people sleeping on the same bed have a tendency to roll
towards each other.
[0007] The thermal properties of mattresses, and through
ventilation, are often such that users complain of being too hot in
bed.
[0008] There are beds of the prior art such as, for example, water
beds that do not require the provision of a conventional mattress,
thereby avoiding at least some of the above-mentioned disadvantages
associates with such mattresses. Water beds however suffer from
other disadvantages. For example, water beds can leak. Also water
beds suffer from the undesirable effects of "ballooning", that is,
when one region of the bed is depressed another region rises owing
to the volume of water being substantially constant and "wave
motion", where the surface of the bed can continue to move owing to
wave-like motion of the water in the bed. Both ballooning and wave
motion can reduce the comfort of the user or users of the bed.
[0009] The prior art also comprises beds which do not require a
conventional mattress, and which do not suffer from the
disadvantages often associated with water beds. An example of such
a bed is described in International patent application WO00/16664.
In this example, a support surface is defined by a plurality of
vertically arranged support members. Unlike a mattress, which
effectively surrounds the springs within the mattress with
sound-insulating material such that noise associated with moving
about on top of the mattress is relatively low, the internal
workings of the bed described in WO00/16664 are not so well
sound-insulated. Whilst the absence of such sound-insulating
material around the springs and other mechanisms of the bed of
WO00/16664 has significant advantages (it provides better
ventilation and less of a hospitable environment of dust, dirt,
moisture, dust mites and the like) it does risk an increase in the
level of noise caused by the user(s) moving about on top of the
bed.
[0010] Some beds are constructed with bed frames having sides which
extend upwardly and around the body support surface. In the case of
a bed having a mattress, the sides can prevent the mattress from
moving in relation to the frame. In the case of a bed whose support
surface is defined by a plurality of vertically arranged support
members (such as in WO00/16664), the sides can conceal and protect
the inner workings of the bed. Additionally, the sides can prevent
a user from rolling out of the bed.
[0011] A problem with such sides to beds is that they can make it
more difficult for a user to get in and out of such a bed. It is
normal for a user to get out of a bed by sitting on the edge of the
support surface, swinging their legs over the side of the bed,
placing their feet on the floor, and standing up. If a user is
trying to get out of a bed with sides in such a manner, the user
could find themselves in a position in which they are sitting with
their hips being disposed lower than the back of their knees (which
may be resting on the side of the bed). In this position it can be
more challenging to get out of bed as the user must essentially
lift their torso over the sides of the bed.
[0012] The present invention seeks to mitigate one or more of the
above-mentioned problems/disadvantages. Alternatively or
additionally, the present invention seeks to provide an improved
bed.
SUMMARY
[0013] The present invention provides, according to a first aspect,
a bed comprising a support surface defined by a plurality of
support members, wherein: each support member is mounted for
movement in a direction substantially normal to the support
surface; at least some of the support members are resiliently urged
towards an unloaded position by means of a spring; and a damping
system is provided for damping vibrations of the spring.
[0014] The support surface of the bed may be the upper surface of
the bed which supports a user's weight. The bed may comprise a
frame. The frame may define the limits of the support surface. A
user will typically rest upon the support surface. Of course, a
user may rest on the support surface indirectly, for example, via a
sheet and/or mattress topper.
[0015] The support surface could be divided up into a plurality of
independently moving surface elements. Each support member may
define a surface element. The support surface may thereby be
defined by a plurality of adjacent support members. Preferably the
bed may comprise more than 250 support members, preferably more
than 500 support members, more preferably more than 1000 support
members. The support members may be arranged in an array within the
limits of the support surface defined by the frame.
[0016] The support members may be elongate. The support members may
be substantially rigid. The support members may comprise a first
end which defines a surface element. The first end may be provided
with an end cap. The end cap may define a surface element. The
support members may comprise a shaft, the shaft having an axis. The
axis of the shaft may be substantially normal to the support
surface. The support members may be mounted such that, when the
support member is loaded, it moves in a direction substantially
parallel to its axis. Each support member may be arranged for
movement independent of adjacent support members. The support
members may move relative to the frame.
[0017] The bed may comprise a support structure. The support
structure may be mounted to the frame of the bed. The support
structure may comprise one or more guide members for guiding the
movement of the support members. The guide members may each guide
at least one of the support members, preferably a multiplicity of
support members is guided by one of the guide members. The
arrangement of the guide members may define the arrangement of the
support members.
[0018] The guide members may prevent, or substantially restrict,
movement of the support members in a direction parallel to the
support surface. The guide members may allow, or in other words
guide, movement of the support members in a direction normal to the
support surface.
[0019] The guide members may each comprise an aperture for
receiving one of the support members. The guide members may be
elongate. The guide members may extend substantially between one
side of the bed and the other side of the bed, for example, the
guide members may run the width of the bed. The guide members may
each comprise a plurality of apertures.
[0020] The guide members may each comprise a first part and a
second part. The first part and the second part may each comprise a
recess which defines the aperture when the first part and the
second part are brought together. The aperture may not be uniform.
The aperture may be a slot. The aperture may have a size and shape
corresponding to that of the support member so that the support
member may move freely through the aperture in a direction normal
to the support surface, yet the aperture may restrict the movement
of the support member in directions parallel to the support
surface.
[0021] Not all support members may have their movement guided by
the guide members. At least some of the support members may be
guided by other means. The support members may be mounted to
adjacent support members and be guided by way of their mounting.
The support members may be slidably mounted to adjacent support
members. The support members may comprise laterally extending
attachment means for mounting to adjacent support members.
[0022] At least some of the support members may be sprung by means
of a spring. The sprung support members may each have one of the
springs associated with them. The springs may be tension springs.
The springs may be compression springs. Not all support members may
be sprung support members. The support members guided by the guide
members may be sprung support members.
[0023] The springs may be mounted to the guide members. Each of the
springs may be retained in one of the apertures of the guide
members. The apertures may each comprise a formation for retaining
the spring. For example, the apertures may each comprise a
projection for engaging between the coils of the spring. The
engagement of the projection between two adjacent coils of the
spring may retain an end of the spring in the guide member. The
projection may be substantially annular and extend a majority of
the way around the aperture. In the case where the guide members
comprises a first part and a second part which define an aperture,
the projection may be provided on one or both of the first part and
the second part of the aperture.
[0024] The springs may comprise a tapered end into which an end of
one of the support members is received. The support member may be
retained by the tapered end of the spring without the need for the
support member to be affixed to the spring.
[0025] Each support member may have an unloaded position. In the
unloaded position, the support member may not be subject to loads
due to the weight of an object placed directly on the support
member. In the unloaded position, the support member may not be
subject to loads due to the movement of adjacent support members.
The sprung support members may be urged towards the unloaded
position by their associated spring. The spring may still be under
tension or compression when the support member is in the unloaded
position.
[0026] Correspondingly, each support member may have one or more
loaded positions. In the one or more loaded positions, the support
member may be subject to loads due to the weight of an object
placed directly on the support member. In the one or more loaded
positions, the support member may be subject to loads due to the
movement of one or more adjacent support members. In the one or
more loaded positions, the sprung support members may be urged
towards the unloaded position by their associated spring. In the
one or more loaded positions, the support members which are not
sprung may be urged towards the unloaded position by adjacent
support members.
[0027] At least some of the springs may be provided with a damping
system. Preferably, a majority of the springs may be provided with
a damping system. A plurality of damping systems may be provided.
The damping systems may be damping mechanisms. A single spring may
be associated with a single damping system. In other words, one
damping system may be provided per spring.
[0028] The damping system may damp its associated spring when the
associated support member is in the unloaded position. The damping
system may not damp its associated spring when the associated
support member is in the one or more loaded positions.
[0029] The damping system may have an engaged state, in which the
damping system is engaged with its associated spring and the spring
is damped. The damping system may have a disengaged state, in which
the damping system is disengaged with its associated spring and the
spring is not damped. There may be a threshold load, corresponding
to a threshold position of the associated support member, at which
the damping system transitions from the engaged state to the
disengaged state. For example, the damping system may be in an
engaged state when the associated support member is in an unloaded
position; the support member may be loaded and correspondingly
travel a first distance to a threshold position; the damping system
may disengage with the associated spring; and the support member
may continue to travel a second distance to a position at which the
forces on it are in equilibrium. For example, the damping system
may be in an engaged state when its associated support member is
within 15 mm of an unloaded position, optionally within 10 mm of an
unloaded position, optionally within 5 mm of an unloaded
position.
[0030] It may be advantageous to damp the springs when they have
returned, or are returning, to their unloaded positions. This is
because at least some of the potential energy and translational
kinetic energy associated with the loaded springs dissipates as
vibrational kinetic energy when the springs unload to their
unloaded positions. These vibrations can manifest as audible
noise.
[0031] The damping system may disengage with its associated springs
under the force of gravity. Additionally or alternatively, the
damping system may be resiliently urged towards a disengaged state.
For example, the damping system may comprise a second spring which
is arranged to urge the damping system towards a disengaged state.
Each damping system may be associated with a second spring arranged
to urge the damping system towards a disengaged state. In another
example, the compression or extension of a resiliently deformable
plastic, such as TPE, may be used to urge the damping system
towards a disengaged state.
[0032] In the context of certain embodiments of the invention, a
bed having a damping system for damping vibrations in or on its
springs has the advantage that less audible noise is produced when
the support surface is unloaded and loaded, or when the load is
changed on a particular support member. It is noted that no
vibrations necessarily need to be present on the spring for the
damping system to operate.
[0033] The damping system may comprise a damping arm. The damping
arm may be arranged to engage with an associated spring. A single
damping arm may be provided to engage with a single spring. In
other words, there may be one damping arm per spring. The damping
arm may damp any vibrations in the associated spring when it
engages with the spring. The damping arm may provide no damping
when it is not engaged with the spring. The damping arm may engage
with the spring by coming into contact with the spring.
[0034] The damping arm may have a particular portion which is
arranged to engage with the spring. The portion arranged to engage
with the spring may have an engagement surface comprising damping
material. The damping material may convert the vibrational energy
of the spring into heat or other energy, preferably not noise
energy. The damping material may be resilient material. The damping
material may, for example, include: a polymeric material, soft
plastic, rubber, neoprene, foam, felt or other suitable material. A
specific damping material may not necessarily be provided on the
damping arm, but it is preferable.
[0035] The damping arm may be pivotally mounted to the bed. The arm
may move as to engage and disengage with the associated spring by
pivoting around a pivot point. The pivot point of the damping arm
may be provided on one of the guide members. The damping arm may be
urged away from the associated spring by means of the second
spring. The damping arm may be urged away from the associated
spring by means of the resiliently deformable plastic. The
resiliently deformable plastic may be overmoulded onto the damping
system.
[0036] The support members may each have a formation. The damping
system may have a corresponding formation arranged to engage with
the formation.
[0037] The formation may comprise, for example: a slot, an
aperture, a recess, and/or a laterally extending protrusion. The
support member may comprise a laterally extending protrusion in the
form of a projection or a rim extending beyond the average width of
the support member. The formation may be on the shaft of the
support member. The formation may not extend around the entire
circumference of the support member.
[0038] The corresponding formation may comprise, for example: a
slot, an aperture, a recess and/or a laterally extending
protrusion. The damping system may comprise an aperture whose
radius is larger than the average width of the support member but
smaller than the width of the support member at the formation, with
which the corresponding formation engages.
[0039] The formation and corresponding formation may be configured
to engage when the support member is in a particular position
relative to the damping system. The formation and corresponding
formation may be configured to engage when the support member is
subject to a particular load. For example, the formation and
corresponding formation may engage when the support member is in
the unloaded position, the one or more loaded positions or at a
threshold position. The support member and the damping system may
be so arranged that engagement of the formation and the
corresponding formation effects engagement of the damping system
with the spring.
[0040] The damping system may comprise a damping system engagement
arm. The damping system engagement arm may comprise a member
comprising the corresponding formation. The damping system
engagement arm may be mechanically connected to the damping arm. By
way of the formation engaging with the corresponding formation when
the support member is in a particular position, the damping arm may
be engaged with the spring.
[0041] The engagement of the formation and corresponding formation
may limit the movement of the support member in the vertical
direction. The formation and corresponding formation may act as a
stop preventing the support member from being pulled out of the
bed. The positions of the formation in relation to the
corresponding formation may therefore define the unloaded position
of the support member.
[0042] At least a multiplicity of the support members may be so
arranged that movement of any one of those support members in a
direction substantially normal to the support surface, and beyond a
threshold distance relative to an adjacent support member, causes
movement in substantially the same direction of said adjacent
support member. There may be substantially no movement of said
adjacent support member caused by the movement of said any one of
those support members when the distance of relative movement is
below the threshold distance.
[0043] At least some of the support members may be provided with
one or more laterally extending pusher members. The pusher members
may comprise an engagement surface arranged to engage with adjacent
support members. Particularly, the pusher members may comprise an
engagement surface arranged to engage with the one or more pusher
members of adjacent support members.
[0044] A plurality of the support members may be arranged such that
movement of a first support member, having a laterally extending
pusher member, in a direction substantially normal to the support
surface and beyond a threshold distance relative to a second
support member, the second support member being adjacent to said
first support member, causes said laterally extending pusher member
of said first support member to push said adjacent support member
in substantially the same direction as said first support
member.
[0045] According to a second aspect of the invention there is also
provided a bed comprising a support surface defined by a plurality
of support members, wherein: each support member is mounted for
movement in a direction substantially normal to the support
surface; and at least some of the support members are provided with
a laterally extending pusher member, wherein the pusher member
comprises an engagement surface arranged to engage with adjacent
support members, the engagement surface comprising damping
material.
[0046] Provision of damping material may reduce audible noise
associated with interaction of the adjacent support members.
Particularly, the audible noise associated with the interaction of
pusher members may be reduced.
[0047] The damping material of the engagement surface may, for
example, include: a polymeric material, soft plastic, rubber,
neoprene, foam, felt or other suitable material.
[0048] The damping material may be bonded to the pusher member. For
example, an adhesive may be used to bond the damping material to
the pusher member.
[0049] The damping material may be a polymeric material. The
damping material may be overmoulded onto the pusher member. This
may be by an injection moulding process.
[0050] Additionally or alternatively, the damping material may be
mechanically attached to the pusher member, for example by an
interference fit or a catch.
[0051] The entire engagement surface may consist of the damping
material. Alternatively, only a portion of the engagement surface
may comprise the damping material. The pusher member may, in whole
or in part, comprise the damping material. The pusher member may
comprise an outer layer comprising the damping material and an
inner layer comprising a material with significantly lower damping
properties.
[0052] The first and second aspects share the feature that the bed
comprises a support surface defined by a plurality of support
members being mounted for movement in a direction substantially
normal to the support surface. Features of an example of such a
bed, particularly the support members and the interrelationship
thereof, are described and claimed in International patent
application publication number WO00/16664 entitled "Body Support
Apparatus". The contents of that application are fully incorporated
herein by reference. The claims of the present application may
incorporate any of the features disclosed in that patent
application. In particular, the claims of the present application
may be amended to include features relating to the structure of the
support members, the means by which the support members may cause
movement of adjacent support members when they move beyond a
threshold distance, and the support structure which supports and
guides the support members.
[0053] Embodiments of the first and second aspects of the present
invention are able to provide the advantages of a bed of the type
provided in WO00/16664, and by means of a bed that exhibits less
noise during use. The springs of the bed of WO00/16664 are, in
comparison to a conventional mattress, not in an environment where
their vibrations are readily damped. Unlike in mattresses, the
springs are not surrounded by soft material which can absorb the
vibrations formed in the spring when the spring is deformed. The
arrangement of the springs also makes them liable to vibrate in a
transverse direction as well as in a longitudinal direction. These
vibrations might manifest as audible noise when the springs and
support members are moved. Another potential source of noise, which
is particular to the bed described in WO00/16664, is that generated
by the interaction of adjacent support members when the support
surface is loaded and unloaded.
[0054] According to a third aspect of the invention there is also
provided a method of manufacturing a bed comprising a support
surface defined by a plurality of support members. The method may
comprise the following steps. The method may comprise providing a
support member comprising a shaft. The shaft may have a laterally
extending protrusion. The method may comprise providing a receiving
element having an aperture configured to receive the shaft and the
protrusion when the support member is in a first orientation
relative to the receiving element. The method may comprise
orienting the support member to the first orientation relative to
the receiving element.
[0055] The method may comprise inserting the shaft and protrusion
into the aperture. The method may comprise rotating the support
member to a second orientation relative to the receiving element,
in which the shaft and protrusion cannot be freely removed from the
aperture. The method may thus provide a convenient way of
assembling a bed--with the support member being in the first
orientation relative to the receiving element, whilst allowing a
function during use--with the support member being in the second
orientation relative to the receiving element--which requires, for
example, positive engagement of the protrusion with the receiving
element, rather than allowing free passage through the
aperture.
[0056] The receiving element may be a guide member, or part
thereof. The receiving element may be a damping system, or part
thereof. The method may include the step of providing a spring for
receiving an end of the support member. The spring may be mounted
to or received by the guide member. The spring may comprise a
tapered end into which the support member is received.
[0057] The method may comprise providing a support member
comprising a laterally extending pusher member. The pusher member
may comprise an engagement surface arranged to engage with adjacent
support members. The method may comprise overmoulding a damping
material onto said engagement surface.
[0058] The method may comprise providing a first part of a guide
member for guiding a support member. The first part may define a
first side of an aperture for receiving a support member. The first
side of the aperture may comprise a first projection. The method
may comprise engaging a spring with the first projection such that
the first projection is engaged between two adjacent coils of the
spring. The method may comprise providing a second part of the
guide member onto the first part of the guide member, the second
part defining a second side of the aperture. The second side of the
aperture may additionally comprise a second projection for engaging
between two adjacent coils of the spring.
[0059] The first part of the guide member may comprise dowels or
pins. The second part of the guide member may comprise holes for
receiving the dowels or pins when the first part and second part
are brought together. The dowels or pins and the holes may thereby
align the first part and the second part.
[0060] The method may comprise providing a damping system. The
method may comprise the step of mounting the damping system to the
guide member. The first part and the second part of the guide
member may comprise corresponding cavities for receiving at least a
part of the damping system. The damping system may combine a bore
about which the system is arranged to pivot. The method may
comprise the step of slotting the bore over a third projection in
the first part and/or second part of the guide member. The third
projection may be the dowel. The damping system may thereby pivot
about the projection which acts as an axle.
[0061] The method may comprise manufacturing one or more of the
above mentioned components of the bed (i.e. the support members,
the damping system, the guide member, etc.). The components may be
made of plastic. The components may be manufactured by injection
moulding. The components may be made of metal. The components may
be manufactured by fabricating metal, for example, by casting
metal. The components may be one piece or may themselves be
assembled from various parts. The skilled person would appreciate
that other material and manufacturing processes exist which would
be suitable for manufacturing such components.
[0062] The present invention provides, according to a fourth
aspect, a bed frame comprising a side for bordering a body support
surface of a bed, wherein: the side comprises a plurality of side
elements mounted for movement in a direction substantially normal
to the body support surface; and the side elements are resiliently
urged towards an unloaded position.
[0063] An advantage of certain embodiments of the present
invention, particularly an advantage of embodiments according to
the fourth aspect now described, is that the bed is provided with
sides, and so benefits from the aforementioned advantages thereof,
whilst the movement of the sides enables a user to get in and out
of the bed more easily than if the sides were of fixed height.
[0064] The bed frame may be a bed frame for a conventional bed
comprising a base and a mattress disposed on the base. The bed
frame a may be a bed frame for a bed comprising a plurality of body
support members. The bed comprising a plurality of body support
members may be a bed as substantially described herein and in
International application WO00/16664.
[0065] The bed frame may be arranged to border a body support
surface of the bed. The body support surface may be substantially
planar and be arranged parallel to the ground when in use. The body
support surface may be defined by the upper surface of the
mattress. The body support surface may be defined by the plurality
of body support members.
[0066] The bed frame may comprise one or more sides, any one or
more of which may comprise movable side elements. The sides may be
disposed along the periphery of the body support surface. The sides
may retain the body support surface or components thereof. For
example, the bed frame may be rectangular in shape and thus have
four sides (two opposing longitudinal sides, a side corresponding
to a foot of the bed and a side corresponding to a head of the
bed). Any combination of these four sides may comprise movable side
elements.
[0067] The movable side elements may be disposed along a
substantially straight line (for example when viewed in plan).
[0068] The side may comprise more than 10 moveable side elements,
preferably more than 20 moveable side elements, and preferably more
than 30 moveable side elements.
[0069] Each movable side element may have a length, the length
being measured in a direction along the length of the side of the
bed with which the side element is associated. In the case where
the body support surface is defined by a plurality of body support
members, it may be that the length of each side element is longer
(preferably more than twice as long) than the maximum dimension
lengthwise or widthwise (along the length or width of the bed, that
is) of the median size of support member of the bed.
[0070] The length of each side element may be between 20 mm and 500
mm, for example, the length of the side may be about 50 mm. The
length of each side element may be between 40 mm and 400 mm, 100 mm
and 300 mm, or 150 mm and 200 mm.
[0071] The moveable side elements may comprise an upper portion
which defines the upper edge of the side of the bed. The upper
portion may be shaped to provide an aesthetically pleasing shape
and/or comfortable shape when the side of the bed is sat on.
[0072] The movable side elements may comprise a lower portion. The
lower portion may be elongate. The lower portion may provide a
mounting which enables the movable side element to move.
[0073] The bed frame may have a side support structure. The
moveable side elements may be movably mounted to the side support
structure. The movable side elements may be slidably mounted to the
side support structure.
[0074] The skilled person would be familiar with various ways to
provide a slidable mounting. By way of example, the movable side
element may comprise a rod and the support structure may comprise a
corresponding slot through which the rod slides, or vice versa. A
possible advantage of this arrangement is that the moveable side
element may be restricted to movement along the axis of the rod,
which can be disposed in the vertical direction. In another
example, the movable side element and support structure may each be
provided with runners. In another example, the movable side element
may be provided with a groove and the support structure may be
provided with a corresponding member for sliding within the groove,
or vice versa.
[0075] The side support structure may be a substantially rigid
structure which substantially spans the length of a side.
[0076] Alternatively, or additionally, the side support structure
may comprise a plurality of base elements. Each movable side
element may be mounted to one base element. The movable side
elements and base elements may thereby define a side portion, a
plurality of which could be arranged to define a side in a
substantially modular manner. The side portions may be linked at
the base element. The base elements may be linked, for example, by
being bolted together, permanently bonded during manufacture,
and/or removably attached by way of corresponding formations.
[0077] The movable side element may have an unloaded position. In
the unloaded position, the movable side element may not be subject
to external loads due to the weight of objects placed on movable
side element and/or subject to loads from adjacent movable side
elements.
[0078] The moveable side element may be resiliently urged towards
the unloaded position. The moveable side element may be resiliently
urged towards the unloaded position by means of a spring, for
example a tension spring or a compression spring. In the unloaded
position the spring may be under tension or compression
respectively.
[0079] The side support structure may have a stop to limit the
movement of the movable side element. The moveable side element may
be urged towards the stop, the arrangement of which defines the
unloaded position.
[0080] In the case where the slidable mounting comprises a slot and
a rod extending therethrough, a compression spring or a tension
spring may be disposed on the rod such that the rod extends through
the spring. This has a possible advantage of preventing the spring
from bending (or at least significantly reducing the risk of the
spring bending too much).
[0081] In example arrangements, the side support structure may
comprise a slot, the movable side element may comprise a rod, and a
spring may be provided through which the rod is received. One end
of the spring may be connected near the slot and another end
connected near an end of the rod. As the side support structure and
the movable side element are urged towards each other the spring
may extend or compress (depending on the type of spring used)
thereby urging the movable side element back toward the unloaded
position.
[0082] A movable side element comprising a slidable mounting and
compression spring arrangement may be provided without the need for
a rod. Particularly the rod may not be necessary in the case where
the spring has sufficient width and/or stiffness to avoid bending
during normal use.
[0083] The movable side element may be movable independently of
adjacent movable side elements. Alternatively, the movement of the
movable side element may have interdependence on the movement of
adjacent movable side elements.
[0084] The movable side elements may be so arranged that movement
of a first movable side elements in a direction substantially
normal to the support surface, and beyond a threshold distance
relative to a second adjacent movable side element, causes movement
of said second adjacent movable side element in substantially the
same direction as the first movable side element.
[0085] There may be substantially no movement of said second
adjacent movable side element caused by the movement of said first
movable side element when the distance of relative movement is
below the threshold distance.
[0086] A plurality of adjacent movable side elements may be
configured to have the above interdependence. By means of this
interdependence, successive adjacent movable side elements may move
in a cascade like manner in response to movement of any one of the
movable side elements. The lateral extent of this cascade, i.e. the
number of movable side elements being moved in substantially the
same direction as the first movable side element, may be dependent
on the number of `threshold distances` the first movable side
element has travelled. A maximum angle of inclination of the upper
edge of the side may be predetermined by selecting an appropriate
threshold distance.
[0087] The means by which the movable side elements interact may be
substantially similar to the means by which the support members
interact according to the preceding aspects of the invention. At
least some of the movable side elements may comprise one or more
laterally extending pusher members. After the first movable side
element has travelled to and beyond the threshold distance its
pusher member may push the second adjacent movable side element in
substantially the same direction.
[0088] The pusher member of the movable side element may push
against a pusher member of an adjacent movable side element.
[0089] The movable side element may be provided with a vertically
extending groove. The pusher member of a first movable side element
may be received within the groove of a second movable side element.
The length of the groove may correspond with the threshold
distance. The pusher member may be able to slide within the groove
between a top of the groove and a bottom of the groove. When the
first movable side element moves such that the pusher member
interacts with the top of the groove or the bottom of the groove,
the second movable side element may be urged in the direction of
the first movable side element. Similarly, when the second movable
side element moves such that the top or bottom of the groove
interacts with the pusher member, the first movable side element
may be urged in the direction of the second movable side
element.
[0090] An alternative way of providing interdependence between
adjacent first and second movable side members may be by attaching
the movable side elements together with a length of rope. The rope
may be so arranged that when the first movable side element moves
beyond the threshold distance relative to the second movable side
element the rope becomes taut and pulls the second movable side
element in substantially the same direction as the first support
member. Similarly, rigid puller members may be provided which work
in a similar manner.
[0091] Movement of the support surface may not affect the movement
of the side members. Alternatively, the movement of the support
surface and the movement of the side members may be interdependent.
In the case of a bed whose support surface is defined by a
plurality of support members, the movable side elements may be
arranged to interact with the support members.
[0092] The support members adjacent to the movable side elements
may be arranged so that movement of a first movable side elements
in a direction substantially normal to the support surface, and
beyond a threshold distance relative to one or more adjacent
support members, causes movement of said support members in
substantially the same direction as the first movable side
element.
[0093] The movable side elements may have formations which are
configured to interact with adjacent support members. For example,
the movable side elements may have formations which are configured
to interact with adjacent support member's pusher members.
Alternatively, the movable side elements may be fixedly attached to
one or more adjacent support members. The movement of the movable
side elements may therefore have an influence on the movement of
the support members via the fixedly attached support member.
[0094] The support structure may include a height adjustable
support arranged to receiving a mattress. The height adjustable
support may extend horizontally from the support structure. The
height adjustable support may enable the relative height of the
mattresses body support surface to be changed. The bed frame may
thereby accommodate various mattress thicknesses and give the user
the ability to alter the relative height of the sides of the bed in
relation to the mattress.
[0095] According to a fifth aspect of the invention there is also
provided a method of manufacturing a bed frame comprising a side
defined by a plurality of movable side elements. The method may
comprise a step of providing a side support structure. The method
may comprise a step of mounting the movable side elements onto the
side support structure.
[0096] The side may comprise a plurality of side portions. The side
portions may comprise a movable side element and a base element.
The side support structure may comprise a plurality of base
elements. The method may comprise a step of linking a plurality of
side portions to form a side. The method may comprise a step of
linking a plurality of a base elements and/or linking a plurality
of movable side elements.
[0097] It will of course be appreciated that features described in
relation to one aspect of the present invention may be incorporated
into other aspects of the present invention. For example, the
features described in relation to the bed of the first aspect of
the present invention may be incorporated into the bed of the
second aspect of the present invention and vice versa.
Additionally, the method of the invention may incorporate any of
the features described with reference to the apparatus of the
invention and vice versa.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0098] In order that the advantages of certain embodiments of the
invention will be readily understood, a more particular description
of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by
reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the
appended drawings. While it should be understood that these
drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are
not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the
invention will be described and explained with additional
specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying
drawings, in which:
[0099] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a bed according to a
first embodiment of the invention;
[0100] FIG. 2a shows a side view of a support member and damping
system, according to a first embodiment of the invention, in a
loaded position;
[0101] FIG. 2b shows a side view of a support member and damping
system, according to a first embodiment of the invention, in an
unloaded position;
[0102] FIG. 3 shows a side view of an upper part of a sprung
support member according to a second embodiment of the
invention;
[0103] FIGS. 4a and 4b show two side views of an unsprung support
member according to a second embodiment of the invention;
[0104] FIGS. 5a and 5b show a plan and underside view,
respectively, of a pusher member according to a second embodiment
of the invention;
[0105] FIG. 6 shows a side view of a series of support members
received by a guide member according to the second embodiment of
the invention;
[0106] FIGS. 7a and 7b show a perspective view of a guide member
for use in either the first or second embodiments;
[0107] FIGS. 8a and 8c show a plan view of a first and second part,
respectively, of a guide member according to a third embodiment of
the invention;
[0108] FIGS. 8b and 8d show a side view of a first and second part,
respectively, of a guide member according to the third embodiment
of the invention;
[0109] FIG. 9 shows a sequential plan view of a spring being
inserted into a guide member according to the third embodiment of
the invention;
[0110] FIG. 10 shows a plan view of a guide member according to the
third embodiment of the invention;
[0111] FIG. 11 shows a sequential side view of a support member
being orientated with respect to the damping system according to
the third embodiment of the invention;
[0112] FIGS. 12a and 12b show a side view and plan view,
respectively, of a damping system according to the third embodiment
of the invention;
[0113] FIG. 13 shows a side view of a side of a bed according to a
fourth embodiment of the invention, the side being formed by
multiple side portions;
[0114] FIG. 14 shows an expanded view of one of the side portions
shown in FIG. 13;
[0115] FIG. 15 shows a side view of a side of a bed according to a
fifth embodiment of the invention, the side being formed by
multiple side portions;
[0116] FIG. 16 shows an expanded view of one of the side portions
shown in FIG. 15;
[0117] FIG. 17 is a side view showing the use, in accordance with a
sixth embodiment of the invention, of the side portions of FIG.
14;
[0118] FIG. 18 is a side view showing the use, in accordance with a
seventh embodiment of the invention, of the side portions of FIG.
14;
[0119] FIG. 19 shows a bed incorporating, for the sake of
comparison, side portions according to the fourth embodiment of the
invention and side portions according to the fifth embodiment of
the invention;
[0120] FIG. 20 shows a side view of a side of a bed according to an
eighth embodiment of the invention; and
[0121] FIG. 21 shows a side view of a side element shown in FIG.
20.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0122] FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the invention, comprising
a bed 100 having a frame 102, which extends around the perimeter of
the bed 100. Within the boundary of the frame 102, there are
provided an arrangement of a multiplicity of vertically extending
support members 103. The support members 103 are arranged in rows
which substantially fill the area defined by the frame 102. The,
generally horizontal, upper surface of the bed, which acts as the
support surface in use, is defined by the upper ends of the support
members 103. For clarity in FIG. 1, the frame 102 is only shown in
part and only a small proportion of incomplete rows of support
members 103 are shown. Each support member 103 is mounted for
movement in a vertical direction (which is thus perpendicular to
the horizontal support surface). Some support members are in the
form of sprung support members 104 and some are in the form of
unsprung support members.
[0123] FIGS. 2a and 2b show a sprung support member 104 and damping
system 106 according to the first embodiment. When a user interacts
with the support surface of the bed in a way which changes the
loading on individual support members, one or more support members
may rapidly move to the unloaded position. Any consequent vibration
that would otherwise be caused is actively damped by means of the
damping system 106. The damping system 106 thus has a disengaged
state when the sprung support member is in a loaded position and
has an engaged state when the sprung support member is in its
unloaded position. Damping of the vibration of the spring reduces
noise that might otherwise be louder.
[0124] As can be seen in FIGS. 2a and 2b, the sprung support member
104 comprises: a first end 108 having a dome shaped end cap 110
defining an element of the support surface, a shaft 112, a
formation in the form of a laterally extending protrusion 114
provided on the shaft 112, and a second end 116.
[0125] A guide member 120 is provided. The guide member 120
comprises an aperture 122 which extends vertically through the
guide member 120. The shaft 112 of the sprung support member 104 is
received within the aperture 122.
[0126] A tension spring 118 is mounted to the guide member 120 and
extends downwardly from the aperture. One end of the spring 118 is
retained by the guide member 120. The other end of the spring 118
is tapered and retains the second end 116 of the sprung support
member 104.
[0127] The damping system 106 comprises a damping arm 124 which is
pivotally mounted to the guide member 120 by pivot 126. The damping
arm 124 has an end distal from the pivot 126 which comprises an
engagement surface for engaging with the spring 118. The engagement
surface is provided with damping material 130 for damping
vibrations in the spring 118 when it is in contact with the spring
118.
[0128] An engagement arm 128 is connected to the damping arm 124 at
the pivot 126. The engagement arm 128 projects at a right angle to
the damping arm 124. (The skilled person will appreciate that in
other embodiments the engagement arm and damping arm need not be at
right angles to each other and that other suitable angles may be
used.) The engagement arm 128 comprises a corresponding formation
in the form of a key hole shaped slot 134, through which the shaft
112 of the sprung support member 104 extends.
[0129] FIG. 2a shows the sprung support member 104 in a loaded
position and the damping system 106, consequently, in a disengaged
state.
[0130] In the loaded position, the laterally extending protrusion
114 is disposed below the guide member 120 and does not interact
with the engagement arm 128.
[0131] A second spring 132 is provided between the guide member 120
and the engagement arm 128. The second spring 132 urges the
engagement arm 128 downwards, and therefore the damping arm 124 is
urged out of engagement with the spring 118. In an alternative
embodiment of the invention, the second spring 132 is not provided.
In that embodiment, the weight of the damping arm 124 and the
engagement arm 128 brings the damping arm 124 out of engagement. In
another alternative embodiment of the invention, the second spring
132 is replaced by soft resiliently deformable plastic which is
overmoulded onto the engagement arm. In the disengaged state, the
engagement arm rests against a portion of the guide member beneath
it. Damping material 135 may be provided to reduce the noise
associated with the interaction between the engagement arm 128 and
the guide member 120 when the damping system 106 disengages.
[0132] FIG. 2b shows the sprung support member 104 in an unloaded
position and the damping system 106, consequently, in an engaged
state.
[0133] In the unloaded position, the laterally extending protrusion
114 is in contact with, and engages, the outer edges of the slot
134 on the engagement arm 128. As seen in FIG. 2b, the engagement
arm 128 is pushed upwards by the laterally extending protrusion
114, due to the sprung support member 104 being urged upwards by
the spring 118. The engagement arm 128 and the damping arm 124
pivot around the pivot 126 thereby bringing the damping material
130 of the engagement surface into contact with the spring 118. Any
vibrations present in the spring 118 will thus be damped.
[0134] In the unloaded position the spring 118 is still under
tension. The laterally extending protrusion 114 is shaped such that
it cannot extend through the slot 134 in the engagement arm 128.
The sprung support member 104 is thereby prevented from further
upward movement.
[0135] A second embodiment of the invention also concerns a bed
including an arrangement of a multiplicity of vertically extending
support members, some of which are sprung and some of which are
unsprung. FIGS. 3 to 5 show support members according to the second
embodiment of the invention. The support members are each provided
with a laterally extending pusher member, such that the interaction
of the pusher members of adjacent support members causes the
movement of one support member to follow that of an adjacent
support member, whereby the support surface of the bed is prevented
from having any sharp changes in shape at a local level.
[0136] FIG. 3 shows a side view of one end of a sprung support
member 204. The sprung support member 204 comprises a shaft 212,
the shaft having a first end 208 on which a dome shaped end cap 210
is provided. A first laterally extending pusher member 236 and a
second laterally extending pusher member 238 are provided on the
shaft 212. The pusher members 236 and 238 extend in a direction
which is normal to the axis of the shaft 212.
[0137] FIGS. 4a and 4b show side views of a support member which is
unsprung 240. The unsprung support member 240 comprises a shaft
242, the shaft having a first end 244 onto which a dome shaped end
cap 246 is provided. A first laterally extending pusher member 248,
a second laterally extending pusher member 250 and a third a
laterally extending pusher member 252 are provided on the shaft
242.
[0138] FIGS. 5a and 5b show a top view and a bottom view,
respectively, of the second pusher member 250. Clips 255 enable the
unsprung support members 240 to mount to adjacent support members
204.
[0139] FIG. 6 shows, in accordance with the second embodiment of
the invention, a series of sprung support members 204 received by a
guide member 220. Unsprung support members 240 are disposed between
the sprung support members 204 and are mounted thereto. The support
members 204 and 240 are arranged linearly and are regularly spaced
along the guide member. Aside from the interaction of the pusher
members, the support members 204 and 240 are generally separated
from each other by a small gap, but the lower cuboidal portion of
the dome shaped end caps 210 may touch where their opposing
surfaces overlap.
[0140] In the arrangement as shown in FIG. 6, the first pusher
member 236 of the sprung support member 204 is disposed between the
first and second pusher members 248 and 250 of the adjacent
unsprung support member 240. Similarly, the second pusher member
238 of the sprung support member 204 is disposed between the second
and third pusher members 250 and 252 of the adjacent unsprung
support members 240. In the unloaded position, the first and second
pusher members 248 and 250 of the unsprung support member 240 rest
upon the first and second pusher members 236 and 238 of the
adjacent sprung support member 204.
[0141] In this arrangement, if the sprung support member 204 is
loaded, it will travel a threshold distance, corresponding to the
distance between the first and second pusher members 248 and 250 of
the adjacent unsprung support member 240, before its pusher members
engage the upper surface of the first and second pusher members 248
and 250 of the adjacent unsprung support member 240. The adjacent
unsprung support member 240 will then be urged downwardly in the
direction of the sprung support member 204. This interaction of
adjacent support members will continue in a cascade type manner
until equilibrium is reached in response to the applied load.
[0142] According to the second embodiment, the surfaces of the
pusher members which may interact with adjacent pusher members (the
engagement surfaces) are provided with a damping material 254
(hatched areas in FIGS. 3 to 5b). In this embodiment, the damping
material 254 is overmoulded onto the engagement surfaces of the
pusher members in order to reduce acoustic noise that would
otherwise be produced by the interaction of the pusher members.
[0143] FIGS. 7a and 7b show a guide member 320 which is suitable
for use as the guide member of either or both of the first and
second embodiments of the invention. The guide member 320 comprises
a first part 320a and a corresponding second part 320b.
[0144] The first part 320a and the second part 320b respectively
comprise a recess 322a and a corresponding recess 322b. The recess
322a and a corresponding recess 322b are both arcuate in shape.
When the first part 320a and the second part 320b are brought
together, the recess 322a and the corresponding recess 322b define
an aperture for receiving a support member.
[0145] The first part 320a comprises alignment pins (not shown) and
the second part 320b comprises corresponding alignment holes (not
shown) for receiving the alignment pins. When the first part 320a
and the second part 320b are brought together the alignment holes
receive the alignment pins thereby aligning the first part 320a and
second part 320b.
[0146] The damping system 106 according to the first embodiment is
mounted onto a dowel 356. The dowel 356 acts as an axle about which
the damping arm 124 and engagement arm 128 pivot. The first part
320a and second part 320b comprise a cavity which accommodates at
least part of the damping system 106, including the engagement arm
128.
[0147] Within the recess 322a a projection in the form of a spring
retention shelf 360 is provided. The spring retention shelf 360
projects into the recess 322a.
[0148] Correspondingly, within the corresponding recess 322b a
projection in the form of a spring retention shelf 360 is also
provided. The spring retention shelf 360 projects into the
corresponding recess 322b. The spring retention shelf 360 of the
recess 322a additionally comprises a spring catch 362 on its upper
surface. According to another embodiment, the spring retention
shelf 360 of the recess 322b may also comprise a spring catch 362
on its upper surface.
[0149] In use, when the first part 320a and the second part 320b
are brought together, a spring is retained in the aperture formed
by the recess 322a and the corresponding recess 322b by the spring
retention shelf 360 projecting between two adjacent coils of the
spring.
[0150] A method of manufacturing a bed will now be described, with
reference to FIGS. 8a to 11, according to a third embodiment of the
invention.
[0151] As a first step, the components of the bed are manufactured.
Particularly, a plurality of the following components, as
substantially described above, are manufactured: support members
404 comprising a shaft 412 provided with pusher members and a
formation 414, guide members comprising a first part 420a and a
second part 420b, and damping systems 406 comprising a damping arm
424 connected at a pivot point 426 to an engagement arm 428
comprising a corresponding formation 434. The components are
manufactured by injection moulding. According to other embodiments,
the components are manufactured according to other appropriate
manufacturing methods.
[0152] Also by way of an injection moulding process, the pusher
members are overmoulded with a soft plastic material.
[0153] To assemble the bed, a first part of the guide member 420a
is provided. As above, the first part 420a comprises a plurality of
regularly spaced recesses 422a. The recesses 422a comprise a spring
retention shelf 460. A tension spring 418 is provided into each
recess 422a. For each spring 418, one end of the spring 418 is
pushed into the recess 422a such that the spring retention shelf
460 is pushed between two adjacent coils of the spring 418. A small
number of coils of each spring, approximately four to five coils in
this embodiment, are disposed above the retention shelf 460; the
coils of the rest of the spring 418 are disposed below the
retention shelf 460.
[0154] The first part 420a of the guide member also comprises
cavities 464a for receiving the damping systems 406. A dowel 456 is
disposed in each cavity 464a adjacent to each recess 422a. A
damping system 406 is provided into each cavity 464a, the pivot
point 426 of the damping system 406 being slotted onto the
associated dowel 456. The damping system 406 is arranged such that
the corresponding formation 434 of the engagement arm 428 is
provided above the spring 418. The damping arm 424 is provided
approximately parallel and adjacent to the spring 418.
[0155] The second part 420b of the guide member is then provided
onto the first part 420a of the guide member. The second part 420b
of the guide member comprises cavities 464b, holes 458 and recesses
422b which line up with the cavities 464a, dowels 456 and recesses
422a of the first part 420a. The first part 420a and second part
420b are brought together such that the recesses define an aperture
422 and the spring 418 and damping system 406 are substantially
sandwiched therebetween. When constructing a guide member
comprising a more than two separate parts (as in the case shown in
FIG. 10), the second part 420b of the guide member is offset from
the first part 420a of the guide member. In this configuration,
successive first and second parts can be overlaid to construct a
length of guide member corresponding to the width of the bed.
[0156] The support members 404 are subsequently inserted into the
guide members. As shown in FIGS. 11, 12a and 12b, the support
members must be provided at a particular orientation to the damping
system. The support member 404 comprises a formation in the form of
a laterally extending protrusion 414. According to this particular
embodiment, the protrusion 414 is triangular in shape and extends
beyond the width of the shaft 412 on two opposing sides of the
shaft 412. The skilled person would appreciate that the invention
is not limited to a particular shape or configuration of the
formation.
[0157] The engagement arm 428 comprises a corresponding formation
which takes the form of aperture in the shape of a slot 434. The
shape of the slot 434 corresponds to the profile of the shaft 412
and the laterally extending protrusion 414. The shaft 412 and
laterally extending protrusion 414 may only be inserted into the
slot 434 when the support member 404 is at a first orientation in
relation to the damping system 406.
[0158] During the method of manufacture, the support member 404 is
therefore oriented at the first orientation in relation to the
damping system 406. The shaft 412 of the support member 404 is then
inserted into the aperture 422, and through the slot 434, to a
point where the laterally extending protrusion 414 passes the slot
434.
[0159] The support member 404 is subsequently rotated 90 degrees to
a second orientation in relation to the damping system 406. The
shape of the slot 434 and the protrusion 414 are such that the
laterally extending protrusion 414 cannot pass back through the
slot 434.
[0160] FIG. 13 shows a fourth embodiment of the invention
comprising a bed frame 502. The bed frame 502 comprises a plurality
side portions 566 arranged in a line to define, in use, a side of a
bed.
[0161] FIG. 14 shows an expanded view of a side portion 566
according to the fourth embodiment. The side portions 566 comprise
a moveable side element 568 movably mounted upon a base elements
570 which rests on a floor.
[0162] The movable side element 568 comprises an upper edge portion
572. The upper edge portion 572 defines the upper edge of the side
of the bed (sometimes referred to as a side rail). The upper edge
portion 572 has an arcuate shape to provide comfort when sat on by
the user of the bed.
[0163] The movable side element 568 comprises a lower body portion
574. The body portion 574 is in the form of a plate which extends
downwardly from the upper edge portion 572. Two runners 576a are
provided on each opposing side of the body portion 574.
[0164] The movable side element 568 also comprises a rod 578 which
is mounted to the body portion 574. The body portion 574 has a cut
out 580 in which the rod 578 extends. The axis of the rod 578 is
vertical. A compression spring 582 is provided over the rod 578.
The rod 574 gives support to the compression spring 582.
[0165] The base element 570 comprises two vertically arranged
columns 584 between which a plate extends. One end of each column
584 rests on the floor. A spring support member 586 is mounted to
the plate. The spring support member 586 comprises a slot through
which the rod 578 may extend.
[0166] Runners 576b are also provided on the columns 584. In use,
the moveable side element 568 is received by the base element 570,
the runners 576a of the movable side element 568 being received by
the runners 576b of the base element 570, and the rod 578 being
received by the slot in spring support member 586.
[0167] The movable side element 568 has an unloaded position in
which it is not subject to external downward loads from an object
being placed upon it and it is not subject to downward loads due to
interaction with adjacent movable side elements 568. In the
unloaded position an end of the rod 578 protrudes only a small way
through the slot in the spring support member 586.
[0168] When a load is applied to the movable side element 568 which
forces it towards the floor, the spring 582 is compressed between
the body portion 574 and the spring support member 586. The movable
side element 568 is therefore urged towards the unloaded position
by the spring 582.
[0169] The upper edge portion 572 comprises a laterally extending
pusher member 588. When the side portions 566 are arranged adjacent
to each other, the pusher member 588 of a first moveable side
element 568 will be received by a groove in the opposing side of
the upper edge portion 572 of an adjacent second movable side
element 568.
[0170] In alternative embodiments the laterally extending pusher
member 588 and groove are provided at other positions on the
movable side member, for example, on the body portion 574.
[0171] The groove has a length and a top and a bottom. By way of
interaction of the top of the groove with the pusher member 588
and/or interaction of the bottom of the groove with the pusher
member 588, the adjacent moveable side elements 568 may urge each
other in a vertical direction in dependence on their respective
loadings.
[0172] The groove has a length such that the first movable side
element 568 may move a threshold distance from the unloaded
position before the pusher member 588 interacts with the top of the
groove and urges the second moveable side portion 568 in the same
direction.
[0173] FIG. 15 shows a fifth embodiment of the invention comprising
a bed frame 602. The bed frame 602 comprises a plurality side
portions 666 arranged in a line to define, in use, a side of a bed.
The side portions 666 operate in a similar way to the side portions
566 according to the fourth embodiment, the structure of the side
portions 666 differing as set out below.
[0174] FIG. 16 shows an expanded view of a side portion 666. The
side portion 666 comprises a movable side element 668 movably
mounted to base element 670.
[0175] The movable side element 668 comprises an upper edge portion
672 having a pusher member 688 and groove, and an elongate body
portion 674. A runner 676a is mounted to the rear of the body
portion 674. In an alternative embodiment, the pusher member 688
and groove are instead provided on the body portion 674.
[0176] The base element 670 comprises a bottom portion 690 for
sitting on the floor. A rear plate 684 extends upwardly from the
bottom portion 690. The rear plate 684 comprises a corresponding
runner 676b arranged to receive the runner 676a when the movable
side element 668 is received by the base element 670.
[0177] A rod 678 is also mounted to the bottom portion 690 and
projects vertically upwardly therefrom. A compression spring 682 is
provided onto the rod 678. The rod 678 gives support to the spring
682.
[0178] The bottom of the body portion 674 comprises a vertically
extending cavity 692 configured to receive the rod 678. The cavity
692 is configured such that the rod 678 can extend through the
cavity 692 yet the spring is prevented from passing freely through
the cavity. The spring 682 is received by a circular recess on a
lower edge of the body portion 674.
[0179] In use, the moveable side element 668 is received by the
base element 670, the runner 676a of the movable side element 668
being received by the runner 676b of the base element 684, and the
rod 678 being received by the cavity 692.
[0180] Rear plates 684 are connected to each other, as seen in FIG.
15, to form a side of a bed. The pusher member 688 and groove of
the upper edge portion 672 allow the movable side elements 668 of
adjacent side portions 666 to interact in a similar manner to that
described in relation to the fourth embodiment.
[0181] FIG. 17 shows a sixth embodiment of the invention, utilising
the movable side portions as described above and shown in FIG. 14,
but in relation to a traditional mattress 796. In this embodiment,
a height adjustable horizontal support 794 is provided, which is
arranged to receive the mattress 796 and which are adjustable to
accommodate various mattress thicknesses. The resiliently mounted
vertically moveable side portions 766 allow for comfort in getting
on and getting off the bed.
[0182] FIG. 18 shows a part of a bed according to a seventh
embodiment, in which a support member 804 is mounted to the upper
edge portion 872 of a movable side element of the bed. The support
member 804 is one of many which together define the body support
surface of the bed. Each support member is mounted for vertical
movement in a similar manner to that described in relation to the
first embodiment of the invention.
[0183] FIG. 19 shows a bed 900 having a bed frame comprising a
plurality of moveable side elements. The Figure shows both side
elements according to the fourth and fifth embodiments of the
invention, to allow the reader to see how each is incorporated into
a bed and to allow for ease of comparison. It will be appreciated
an actual embodiment of the bed of the present invention would, if
movable side elements are provided, most likely have side elements
according to only one or the other of the fourth and fifth
embodiments of the invention. Support members according to the
first and second embodiments of the invention are also shown in
FIG. 19 to aid understanding of how the various above-described
embodiments relate to each other. For clarity, the frame is only
shown in part.
[0184] FIG. 20 shows an eighth embodiment of the invention
comprising a bed frame 1002. The bed frame 1002 comprises a
plurality of movable side elements 1068 movably mounted on a side
support structure 1070.
[0185] As shown in FIG. 21, and similarly to the fourth and fifth
embodiments, the movable side elements 1068 comprise an upper edge
portion 1072 and a lower body portion 1074.
[0186] The lower body portion 1074 comprises an elongate slot 1075
which receives an upper edge of the side support structure 1070.
Preferably runners or the like are provided to allow the lower body
portion 1074 to move smoothly relative to the upper edge of the
side support structure 1070.
[0187] The movable side elements 1068 also comprise a rod 1078
which is mounted to the upper edge portion 1072. The axis of the
rod 1078 is vertical and extends beneath the upper edge portion
1072.
[0188] A spring support member 1086 is mounted to the side support
structure 1070, in this case on the outside, that being on the
opposite side of the side support structure 1070 to the mattress
area (in an alternative arrangement the spring support member is
mounted inside of the side support structure). The spring support
member 1086 comprises a slot through which the rod 1078 extends. A
tension spring 1082 is mounted to, and extends beneath, the spring
support member 1086. The spring 1082 retains the lower end of the
rod 1078 and acts to urge the rod, and therefore the movable side
element 1068, upwards.
[0189] A plurality of the movable side elements 1068 may be mounted
side by side along a side support structure 1070, as seen in FIG.
20, to form a side of a bed. The upper edge portion 1072 comprises
a pusher member 1088 and groove. The pusher member 1088 and groove
allow adjacent movable side elements 1068 to interact in a similar
manner to that described in relation to the fourth and fifth
embodiment.
[0190] The bed frame 1002 does not comprise modular side portions
as per the fourth and fifth embodiments; however it could be
readily envisaged that side support structure could be divided into
a plurality of base elements which can be arranged to form a side
of a bed.
[0191] Similarly to the seventh embodiment, support member 1004 is
fixedly mounted to the upper edge portion 1072. Support member 1004
may be connected to a plurality of other support members to define
a body support surface of a bed.
[0192] Whilst the present invention has been described and
illustrated with reference to particular embodiments, it will be
appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the
invention lends itself to many different variations not
specifically illustrated herein. By way of example only, certain
possible variations will now be described.
[0193] Only some of the edges of the bed may be provided with the
movable side elements of the fourth or fifth or eighth embodiments.
It may in certain designs of bed be preferred, for example, to have
the lateral edges/sides of the bed formed of such movable side
elements, but have fixed/rigid edges/sides at the head and the foot
of the bed.
[0194] Whilst the present invention and embodiments thereof has
been described and claimed with reference to beds, it may be that
the invention has application in relation to other means for
supporting at least part of a living human being. For example, the
advantages of the present invention could be applied not only to
beds, but also to chairs and other apparatus for supporting a
person, or part of a person (for example, just their legs). There
may therefore be provided a body support apparatus, that is, an
apparatus suitable for supporting at least part of a living human
being having the features of the bed of the invention as described
or claimed herein, but not necessarily being in the form of a bed.
Such a body support apparatus may be a bed, a chair and another
apparatus capable of supporting a living human being or an animal
having a mass greater than 1 Kg, or a part of such a human being or
animal.
[0195] It will be readily understood that the components of various
embodiments of the present invention, as generally described and
illustrated in the figures herein, may be arranged and designed in
a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the detailed
description of the embodiments of the present invention, as
represented in the attached figures, is not intended to limit the
scope of the invention as claimed, but is merely representative of
selected embodiments of the invention.
[0196] The features, structures, or characteristics of the
invention described throughout this specification may be combined
in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. For example,
reference throughout this specification to "certain embodiments,"
"some embodiments," or similar language means that a particular
feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with
the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the
present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in certain
embodiments," "in some embodiment," "in other embodiments," or
similar language throughout this specification do not necessarily
all refer to the same group of embodiments and the described
features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any
suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
[0197] It should be noted that reference throughout this
specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not
imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized
with the present invention should be or are in any single
embodiment of the invention. Rather, language referring to the
features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific
feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with
an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present
invention. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and
similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not
necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.
[0198] Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and
characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable
manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art
will recognize that the invention can be practiced without one or
more of the specific features or advantages of a particular
embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages
may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in
all embodiments of the invention.
[0199] One having ordinary skill in the art will readily understand
that the invention as discussed above may be practiced with steps
in a different order, and/or with hardware elements in
configurations which are different than those which are disclosed.
Therefore, although the invention has been described based upon
these preferred embodiments, it would be apparent to those of skill
in the art that certain modifications, variations, and alternative
constructions would be apparent, while remaining within the spirit
and scope of the invention. In order to determine the metes and
bounds of the invention, therefore, reference should be made to the
appended claims.
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