U.S. patent number 3,848,278 [Application Number 05/292,517] was granted by the patent office on 1974-11-19 for pediatric bed.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Herman Miller, Inc.. Invention is credited to Robert L. Propst.
United States Patent |
3,848,278 |
Propst |
November 19, 1974 |
**Please see images for:
( Certificate of Correction ) ** |
PEDIATRIC BED
Abstract
A bed platform is suspended within a support frame having
transparent and removable plastic end walls and plastic mesh sides
slidable on a Tambour track between raised and lowered positions.
As the sides are raised, they slope inwardly over and above the
platform to discourage climbing. The support frame is mounted on a
caster supported base having upstanding end posts attached to the
frame and adjustable height-wise by a motor driven lift. The
platform is supported on the ends of the frame and is adjustable
for Trendelenburg and reversed Trendelenburg positioning. Affixed
to the platform is a mattress frame which includes adjustable and
pivotal portions for Gatch positioning. The mattress is molded with
a shell-like configuration to fit over the mattress and support
frame and includes living hinges to permit folding into various
Gatch positions. It also includes grippers along its underside for
positive grip sheet placement.
Inventors: |
Propst; Robert L. (Ann Arbor,
MI) |
Assignee: |
Herman Miller, Inc. (Zeeland,
MI)
|
Family
ID: |
22640482 |
Appl.
No.: |
05/292,517 |
Filed: |
September 27, 1972 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
|
|
175505 |
Aug 27, 1971 |
3763507 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
5/603; 5/100;
5/618; 250/455.11; 5/722 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47D
7/00 (20130101); A61G 7/0507 (20130101); A61G
7/0509 (20161101); A61G 7/00 (20130101); A61G
7/0526 (20130101); A61G 7/0515 (20161101); A61G
10/005 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A47D
7/00 (20060101); A61G 7/00 (20060101); A61g
007/02 (); A47c 027/08 () |
Field of
Search: |
;5/11,66,68,90,91,100,352,357 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
Primary Examiner: Nunberg; Casmir A.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Price, Heneveld, Huizenga &
Cooper
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This is a division, of application Ser. No. 175,505 filed Aug. 27,
1971.
Claims
The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or
privilege is claimed are defined as follows:
1. A pediatric bed comprising, in combination: a body support
enclosure having a pair of ends and sides, a mattress and
mattress-support frame suspended from the lower portion of said
ends, a base for support of said enclosure, said enclosure being
adjustable vertical relative to said base by lift means for raising
and lowering the elevation of said bed, said sides being slidably
mounted on tracks anchored to said ends, said sides being
independently movable between a first position where the top margin
of said sides are at or below said mattress level, a second
position wherein the top margin is substantially above said
mattress and a third position intermediate said first and second
positions, said sides including latch means for releasably
positioning said sides in said positions, said sides when
positioned in said third position having an upper portion extending
generally vertically upwards, and when positioned in said second
position, having a first portion extending generally vertically
upwards, and a second portion above said first portion sloped
inwardly over said mattress, said 178 ress-support frame being
adjustable between a horizontal position and one or more angles of
incline, said support frame further including means for
independently adjusting the slope of the back, upper leg and lower
leg support portions of said mattress relative to the horizontal.
mattress-support
2. A pediatric bed comprising, in combination: a body support
enclosure having a pair of ends and sides, a mattress and
mattress-support frame suspended from the lower portion of said
ends, a base for support of said enclosure, said mattress-support
frame being adjustable between a horizontal position and one or
more angles of incline, said support frame further including means
for independently adjusting the slope of the back, upper leg and
lower leg support portions of said mattress relative to the
horizontal, said sides being slidably mounted on tracks anchored to
said ends, said sides being independently movable between a first
position wherein the top margin of said sides are at or below said
mattress level, a second position wherein the top margin is
substantially above said mattress, said sides including latch means
for releasably positioning said sides in said positions.
3. The combination according to claim 2 wherein said sides when
positioned in said first position extend generally horizontally
beneath said mattress-support frame, said sides when positioned
simultaneously in said first position being vertically spaced one
above the other.
4. The combination according to claim 2 wherein said sides are
adjustable for movement to a third position intermediate said first
and second positions, said sides when positioned in said third
position having an upper portion extending generally vertically
upwards, said sides when positioned in said second position having
a first portion extending generally vertically upwards, and a
second portion above said first portion sloped inwardly over said
mattress.
5. The combination according to claim 2 wherein said enclosure is
adjustable vertically relative to said base by lift means for
raising and lowering the elevation of said bed.
6. The combination according to claim 2 wherein said ends include a
one-piece configurated panel cooperatively associated with said
base and sides to permit facile insertion and removal without the
necessity of mechanical fasteners or the like.
7. The combination according to claim 6 wherein said ends are
comprised of a transparent plastic.
Description
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
This invention pertains to a pediatric bed, and more particularly
to an improved versatile bed for use in child care centers such as
hospitals.
Hospital beds or cribs for children have undergone little or no
change over the years and indeed, applicant is unaware of any prior
art on the market today which is versatile enough to be utilized
properly as a crib or youth bed. Basically, the type of structure
present today for young children is the traditional stainless steel
or chrome plated cage called a crib. This in and of itself is one
major disadvantage of present bed construction since a young
patient admitted to the hospital is frequently quite frightened.
Placing him in a cage type crib does little to reassure him or calm
his fears. With regards to beds available for slightly larger
children wherein a crib is unfeasible, present proposals call for a
bed very similar to that used for adults simply modified slightly
as to its size. One important overall disadvantage then is the lack
of a bed which will accommodate both infants and youths. As a
result, a pediatric department is faced with either buying a crib,
a youth bed, or both in order to meet its needs. With the advent of
over-crowded hospitals and the associated demand on floor space
within hospitals, this is a luxury which can be ill afforded. Since
the need is never completely constant within a pediatric
department, the requirement of two different types of beds or cribs
not only greatly increases the overall cost factor, but puts a
demand on storage space or in the alternative the non-utilization
of floor space. Thus, there is an extreme need today for a
pediatric bed which is serviceable as a crib for the tiniest infant
to a bed which is likewise serviceable for an older youth.
Another significant disadvantage of the prior art today is the lack
of versatile adjustment as to height and positioning. While it is
old to provide a bed having sides adjustable with regards to
height, they are generally difficult to handle, and tend to jam
when being or lowered. Also, the latching mechanism is many times
within the reach of the patient, a potentially dangerous situation
especially in regards to children. A second disadvantage of present
proposals in this regard is the difficulties encountered in height
adjustment. A bed which is utilized for both a tiny infant and an
older child must be adjustable height-wise within a wide range.
Applicant is unaware of any prior art child's bed that can be
quickly and efficiently raised or lowered from the floor to an
adult height electrically. Other important positionable adjustments
include Trendelenburg positioning and Gatch positioning. Applicant
is unaware of any pediatric bed which combines all of these
adjustments in a simple to operate and economical fashion. Although
it is old to provide a bed having one or more of these types of
adjustments possible, additional disadvantages with these types of
beds is their inability to be adjusted longitudinally to adapt to
various sized individuals. The growth rate of an individual is a
maximum in his younger years and thus, a child's bed adjustable for
Gatch positioning, should also be adjustable so that the Gatch
positioning can be varied to accommodate a child having various
sized backs, legs and central body portions. That is, the distance
in children from the foot to the knee; the knee to the waist; and
the waist to the head can vary greatly. Applicant is unaware of any
child's which provides in addition to Gatch positioning, an
adjustment for the various dimensions described. Thus, there is a
need today for a pediatric crib which can be quickly and easily
adjusted with respect to height, Trendelenburg positioning and
Gatch positioning.
Yet another major disadvantage in existing proposals is that they
are generally comprised of bars or tubes which have various
drawbacks. To begin with, they affect the overall visibility into
and out of the bed. This is distracting to the child as well as the
nurse tending the child since they cannot always ascertain the
exact status of the child in the bed from their various work
positions in and around the bed. Also, bars and tubes present a
difficult and time consuming cleaning problem. Furthermore, if the
pediatric bed is to be utilized for small infants, there must be
some assurance that the infant cannot extricate himself from within
the confines of the bed and possibly injure himself in the fall.
Thus, there is a need for a pediatric crib or bed which can be
conveniently and yet positively enclosed to prevent a child from
climbing out under normal circumstances. On the other hand, the bed
must be adaptable to apply or attach orthopedic appliances or
portable support environments such as oxygen tents thereto. Other
orthepedic appliances such as traction equipment generally requires
projections of the equipment past the extremities of the bed.
Applicant is unaware of any pediatric bed which has easy to remove
end walls which when being used are transparent to permit clear
vision into the bed. Other disadvantages with present beds
constructed of bars and tubular elements is their tendency to
injure the child when he becomes frustrated or during excessive
play strikes his head or hand against the tube elements. Applicant
is unaware of a prior art bed having yieldable mesh siding which
permits clear vision therethrough but prevents injury under normal
circumstances and use.
Yet other drawbacks lie in the mattress pans and mattresses which
are generally heavy and difficult to raise when it is desired to
place the patient in a sitting position. In fact the weight alone
of existing proposals make them difficult and clumsy for a nurse to
move around. Finally, even though applicant is unaware of any
present proposal which has any significant versatility to meet
present day demands, those that do attempt to provide some
versatility do so at very high costs. Since hospitals are in an era
of spiraling costs, this is no small consideration.
Thus, there is a need today for a pediatric bed which has extreme
versatility in both its utilization and adjustability while at the
same time presenting an attractive looking unit at a cost that is
not prohibitive.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
In accordance with this invention, a novel and versatile pediatric
bed is comprised of a platform means having a mattress affixed
thereto, the platform means is suspended by a support frame which
includes a pair of end walls and adjustable sides. The support
frame is suspended from a caster mounted base and is adjustable
height-wise by a lift mechanism.
In preferred aspects, the side and end walls are transparent to
permit clear peripheral vision into and out of the bed with the end
walls being removable to facilitate the attachment of external
orthopedic equipment. The side walls preferably slant inwardly when
in their extreme upper position to discourage and inhibit an infant
from climbing out of the bed when it is utilized as a crib. In
other preferred aspects, the platform is adjustable for
Trendelenburg positioning while the mattress is affixed to an
auxiliary frame mounted on the platform which is adjustable for
Gatch positioning. All components are comprised of aluminum or
plastic to minimize its weight and make it easy to clean.
A principal advantage of this invention is its complete versatility
for utilization as a crib, playpen or youth bed at varying
heights.
Additional advantages provided by this invention is the versatility
provided by this bed which provides Trendelenburg and Gatch
positioning while at the same time providing an attractive overall
appealing package of relatively light-weight and low cost. The
package is attractive both in appearance for the sake of the user
as well as its overall durability.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the pediatric bed provided by this
invention;
FIG. 2 is a fragmentary view of portions of the bed shown in FIG. 1
shown in an exploded perspective;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one of the Trendelenburg plates
utilized in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3A is a cross sectional view taken along line 3A--3A in FIG.
3;
FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the end panel provided by this
invention;
FIG. 4 is a side view of the handle assembly utilized in connection
with the Trendelenburg plate shown in FIG. 3;
FIG. 5 is an elevation view shown in cross section of the platform
height adjustment mechanism provided by this invention;
FIG. 6 is a fragmentary view of the sides and latch mechanism
provided by this invention;
FIG. 6A is a cross sectional view taken along line 6A--6A in FIG.
6;
FIG. 7 is an elevation view of one of the telescoping latch tubes
shown in FIG. 6;
FIG. 8 is an elevation view of another of the telescoping latch
tubes shown in FIG. 6;
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the mattress provided by this
invention;
FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the mattress frame and
platform provided by this invention;
FIG. 11 is a plan view of the mattress frame shown in
FIG. 10;
FIG. 12 is a side elevation view of the frame shown in FIG. 11;
FIG. 13 is an end view of the frame shown in FIGS. 11 and 12;
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the bottom of the mattress shown
in FIG. 9;
FIG. 15 is a side view partially cutaway to illustrate the mattress
shown in FIG. 14 in a Gatch position;
FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the mattress shown in FIG. 14;
FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view taken along line 17--17 of FIG.
16;
FIG. 18 is a cross sectional view taken along line 18--18 of FIG.
16;
FIG. 19 is a cross sectional view taken along line 19--19 of FIG.
16;
FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view taken along line 20--20 of FIG.
16;
FIG. 21 is a cross sectional view taken along line 21--21 of FIG.
16;
FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view taken along line 22--22 of FIG.
16;
FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view taken along line 23--23 of FIG.
16;
FIGS. 24-31 are perspective views of the bed provided by this
invention illustrating the bed and sides in a variety of adjusted
height, Trendelenburg and Gatch positioning;
FIG. 32 is an elevation view in cross section of an alternative
mattress frame and platform construction; and
FIG. 33 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1 of an alternative
bed arrangement.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring briefly to FIGS. 1 and 10 of the drawings the bed 10
provided by this invention includes a mobile base 11 mounted on
casters 12. Each end of the base includes an end post 13 from which
is suspended a support frame 14 having a pair of sides 15 and end
panels 16. A mattress 17 is mounted on a mattress frame 18 (FIG.
10) which is anchored to a mattress platform 19. Platform 19 is in
turn suspended from support frame 14. Frame 18 is movable to
various Gatch positions (one of which is shown in FIG. 1) while
platform 19 is mounted to frame 13 through a plurality of
Trendelenburg plates 20 to permit the platform to be oriented in
Trendelenburg or reverse Trendelenburg positioning. Gatch
positioning relates to the knee's-up, back-up positioning while
Trendelenburg positioning relates to the overall slope of the
mattress relative the horizontal. End panels 16 are removable to
permit the utilization of traction or other orthopedic attachments
while the upper portion of sides 15 are sloped inwardly when in a
full up position to inhibit a child from climbing out.
Referring now in greater detail to FIGS. 1 and 2, mobile base 11 is
shown compised of a generally longitudinally extending channel or
frame element 21 which extends the overall longitudinal length of
the bed. A pair of horizontal legs 22 extend laterally out in
opposite directions from channel 21 near each end and are anchored
at their outer end to a caster 12. This construction provides a low
profile base having a generally rectangular configuration with a
caster at each corner to provide excellent stability for the bed.
Casters 12 are journaled in an individual housing 23 in a
conventional fashion and preferably include some type of manually
releasable brake means (not shown) so that the bed can be
positioned in a desired location and prevented from unintentional
movement.
Extending, generally vertically upwards from each end of channel
member 21 is an end post 13 preferably having a tubular
configuration. End posts 13 are adapted to telescope within
corresponding portions of the support frame 14 from base 11. An
elbow 24 (FIG. 5) interconnects each post 13 with the end of
channel 21. Elbow 24 accommodates part of the lift mechanism which
will be described in more detail hereinafter.
Continuing in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, support frame
14 includes a pair of identical end frames 26, 26 which are rigidly
interconnected by a pair of longitudinally extending cross bars 27
and 28 spaced laterally from each other and welded or affixed in
some other fashion to the underside of end frame 26, 26. Each end
frame 26 includes a central vertical post 29 which telescopes over
end posts 13 for support of frame 14 by base 11. The telescoping
association between end posts 13 and frame posts 29 adds to the
overall rigidity and stability of interconnected end frames 26.
Each end frame 26 in addition to post 29 is comprised of a pair of
mating peripheral frame elements 30 and 31. Elements 30 and 31
extend laterally with respect to the longitudinal axis of bed 10
and are connected to post 29 to form an overall end wall frame.
Frame elements 30 and 31 include a lower generally horizontal
portion 32 which is curved or shaped upwardly at its outer
extremity into an upwardly extending portion 33. Each portion
includes a vertical portion 33a extending from portion 32
terminating approximately half way with regard to the height of
frame 14 where it is curve or formed into a second portion 33b
which is sloped inwardly back toward post 29. The upper end of
portion 33 coincides with the upper limit of support frame 14
wherein it is curved or shaped into an inwardly extending
horizontal portion 34 which is directly terminated at post 29 and
connected thereto conventionally by a fastener or as shown in FIG.
2, an offset T-connector 35. In order to keep bed 10 as light as
possible, all of the tubing and frame elements are preferably
comprised of aluminum or lightweight chrome-plated steel which are
easy to keep clean.
The T-connector includes a leg portion 36 adapted to fit onto the
upper portion of post 29 with the cross portion 37 offset forwardly
from post 29 for receipt of the upper ends of frame elements 30 and
31. The reason for this is to offset the plane defined by frame
elements 30 and 31 in front of post 29 to permit the insertion of a
one piece end wall 16 (FIG. 1) within the confines of each pair of
frame elements 30 and 31. End walls 16 are preferably comprised of
a clear-plastic such as polycarbonate and are adapted to be
detachably mounted within end frames 26. The detachable feature
permits removal of the end walls in the event that external
orthopedic equipment must be utilized such as traction equipment
which extends from within the confines of support frame 14
externally thereof.
Referring to FIG. 3B, each end panel 16 is symmetrical about its
vertical center line and is shown to conform generally to the
configuration of frame elements 30 and 31. A pair of cut-out
portions 270 and 271 permit the panel to be inserted around plates
20 which will be described in more detail hereinafter. The
periphery of panel 16 includes a curved flange 272 comprised of
upper portions 274, side portions 276; and bottom portion 278. The
curvature of flange 272 matches the radius of the end frame
elements so that it nestles about the peripheral end frame elements
to prevent the occupant of the bed from getting a grip on the end
panels or possibly get his fingers wedged therebetween. A recess
200 extends vertically down the middle of panel 16 and is curved to
nestle around end frame post 29. The upper flange portion 274
includes an opening 282 on each side of recess 280 for receiving a
pair of keeper plates 38 which depend from upper frame portions 34
to lock the panel to the frame The cut-out portions 270 and 271
include a keeper tab 284 which is curved outwardly to fit around
plates 20 as shown in FIGs. 1, 3 and 3A.
To attach the panel to end frame 26, one simply inserts the upper
end or the inside of post 29 until keeper plates 38 are inserted
into openings 282. The lower portion is then gripped and flexed
inwardly until tabs 284 clear plates 20 whereupon the panel is
released and the tabs slip in behind plates 20 to secure the panel
to the bed without requiring any mechanical fasteners. Recess 280
(FIG. 3B) facilitates the inward flexing of the panel. To remove
the panel, the reverse operation is preferred.
As described briefly earlier, support frame 14 is adpated to
support platform 19 which in turn supports mattress frame 18 (FIGs.
1 and 2). Thus, frame 14 essentially forms a shell or enclosure
with ends closed by panels 16 and sides selectively closed by sides
15 and the bottom closed by platform 19, frame 18 and mattress 17.
One important aspect of this invention is the ability to raise or
lower the bed as an integral unit relative to base 11. This is
accomplished by raising frame 14 unitarily with mattress 17, frame
18 and platform 19 regardless of their Trendelenburg or Gatch
positioning.
Referring now to FIG. 5, one form of a lift means 40 for
electrically raising and lowering the bed is shown. The lift means
to be described herein is provided in both end posts 13 to
simultaneously raise both end frames 26 in unison. Since the lift
means is identical in both ends, only one will be described in
detail. In order to provide lift or descent for support frame 14,
an electric motor 41 is mounted to channel frame 21 at
approximately its mid point longitudinally with respect to the bed.
This is a matter of convenience since motor 41 is utilized to
activate both lift means 40 at each end. At the same time, its
mid-location tends to shield it from the eye of an observer in
those instances where the bed is in a lowered position thereby
improving the overall appearance of the bed. Motor 41 includes a
drive shaft 42 (FIG. 5) which rotates a worm gear 43 having teeth
engaged with a reciprocating worm gear 44 which is driven
rotationally about a horizontal longitudinal axis. Worm gear 44 is
attached to one end of a rod 45 journaled in a pair of bushings 46
and driven for joint rotation with worm gear 44 by motor 41.
Bushings 46 are preferably supports in the form of ductile steel
castings. The opposite end 48 of rod 45 includes a right angle
bevel gear 49 in mesh engagement with a reciproacting bevel gear 50
anchored on a threaded rod 51 extending upwardly through end posts
13 and end frame posts 29. Rod 51 is journaled at its lower end in
a bushing 47 comprised of a ductile steel casting similar to
bushings 46. Rod 51 is threadably engaged with a ball screw 54
which is connected to post 29 by a pair of pins 56 to provide
vertical movement of frame 14 and hence the bed. Ball screw 54 is
positoned above the upper end 57 of post 13 which end acts as a
lower stop for the bed elevation. In the embodiment shown in FIG.
5, end frame post 29 is approximately twice the height of post 13.
Thus, the amount of vertical travel is approximately equal to half
of the length of post 29. Preferably the amount of travel is
approximately sufficient to raise end lower the overall elevation
of the bed surface frame 12-16 inches to 38-42 inches depending on
the particular age and size of the patient.
Briefly, rotation of rod 45 through the utilization of right angle
bevel gears 49 and 50 causes threaded rod 51 to rotate in the same
direction as rod 45 about a vertical axis. The upper end of rod 51
is journaled in a thrust bearing 53, thrust bearing 53 being
anchored within end frame post 29 in the vicinity of its upper end.
Ball screw 54 is threadably engaged with rod 51 but prevented from
rotating relative thereto in a known fashion. Rotation of rod 51
results in axial displacement of ball screw 54 and likewise
displacement of post 29. Accordingly, the entire support frame 14
is lifted or lowered evenly at both ends depending on the
rotational direction of rods 45 and 51 which is dependent on the
directional rotation of motor 41. Thus a simple, dependable and
effective lifting means is provided which requires no physical
exertion other than the movement of an appropriate switch into the
up or down position. A slightly modified form is shown in FIG. 2
which eliminates the utilization of pins 56. In this embodiment the
same overall principle is involved utilizing ball screw 54a.
However an internal tube 55 is threaded to the upper end of ball
screw 54a anchored at its upper end to post 29 by a pin 290
receivable in post 29 by an opening 292. A bearing 294 journals
tube 55, bearing 294 also being anchored to post 29 by pins 296.
Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, rotation of ball screw
54a transmits vertical movement of end frame 26 through tube
55.
One important objective of this invention as noted earlier is to
provide a pediatric bed which is adaptable as a crib, playpen or
youth bed. When utilized as a crib, it is desirable to have the bed
surface elevated for the sake of the nurse taking care of the
infant since the higher the elevation, the less bending required.
On the other hand, if the bed is to be utilized as a playpen, it is
most desirable that the bed surface be as low to the ground as
practical. Finally, when utilized as a youth bed, the elevation of
the bed surface ideally lies intermediate that of a playpen and
crib. According to this invention, lift means 40 permits raising
and lowering the bed surface between a minimum elevation from the
floor of 12-16 inches and a maximum height of 38-42 inches. After
extensive testing, this range of elevation has been found to
provide optimum flexibility although wide flexibility is available.
The lower elevation permits a child to sit on the mattress with his
legs on the floor. The upper limit is desirable for a nurse to
service a child without excessive bending etc. The low profile of
base 11 is one unique aspect which permits the lowering of bed 10
to a surface elevation of 16 inches.
When bed 10 is utilized as a playpen or crib, sides 15 are
preferably in a fully up position. Referring briefly to FIGS. 1 and
24-31, bed 10 includes a pair of identical sides 15 slidably
mounted to support frame 14 for independent movement between a
fully lowered and fully raised position. The left side in FIG. 1
illustrates the fully raised position while the right side
illustrates the fully lowered position. In the preferred
embodiment, the sides are also adaptable for positioning in a
partially raised position essentially mid-way between the fully
lowered and fully raised positions. FIG. 31 illustrates both of the
sides positioned at the intermediate position.
With the sides fully raised, the bed is particularly adaptable for
use as a crib or playpen. When utilized as a crib, the bed surface
is generally raised to its maximum level of elevation as shown in
FIG. 25. When utilized as a playpen, the bed is generally lowered
to its minimum level of elevation as shown in FIG. 24. The bed is
also adaptable for occupancy by a somewhat older child wherein the
encapsulating features required for an infant do not exist. When
utilized thusly, it might be preferred to have both sides in their
fully lowered positions as shown in FIG. 29. On the other hand, due
to the disability or illness of the occupant, there might be some
consideration to prevent accidental falling from the bed wherein
the sides are positioned in their intermediate positions such as
shown in FIG. 31. In any event, no matter what the age or demeanor
of the occupant, it is desirable that either side be quickly and
easily lowered to permit easy access to the bed.
Since the two sides are identical to each other, only one will be
described in particular detail. The particular arrangement of sides
15 is illustrated in more detail in FIGS. 2 and 6-8. Preferably,
sides 15 are mounted on a Tambour track 60 (FIG. 2) with the sides
being flexible to be folded through a right angle 61 so that when
the side is in its lowermost position, it is completely tucked
under the bed as illustrated in FIG. 1. In the prior art, the sides
generally move vertically in a plane and hence are fully exposed
when in their lowermost position. By concealing the sides beneath
the bed platform, they are less apt to be damaged, and are more
inaccessible to the occupant so that there is less tendency that
the occupant will manipulate the sides by himself. In addition, the
concealed position is believed to be more appealing in terms of
overall appearance of the bed.
With reference to FIG. 2, a pair of Tambour tracks 58 and 60 are
mounted on each end frame 26 and are shaped in conformity with
peripheral frame elements 30 and 31. Similar to end frame elements
30 and 31, each Tambour track 58 and 60 includes a lower horizontal
portion 62 (FIG. 2) which is smoothly curved into an outer and
lower vertical portion 63 which is subsequently smoothly curved
inwardly into a sloped portion 64. These portions essentially
coincide with portions 32, 33a and 33b described in detail with
respect to the shape of peripheral frame elements 30 and 31.
However, lower horizontal portions 62 extend the entire width of
the bed in order to permit sides 15 to be concealed beneath
platform 19 when fully lowered.
Preferably, tracks 58 and 60 comprised of chromeplated steel or
stainless steel having sufficient rigidity so that they need be
anchored only at their end points. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3,
vertical portion 63 of track 58 is preferably a little longer than
vertical portion 63 of track 60 so that when tracks 58 and 60 are
mounted on each end 26, horizontal portion 62 of track 58 is spaced
beneath horizontal portion 62 of track 60 so that when both sides
are lowered into their lower position, the two sides are stacked
relative to each other. To mount tracks 58 and 60 to end frame 26,
the lower end of track 58 is mounted to frame element 30 while its
upper end is mounted to frame element 31. Conversely, track 60 has
its lower end mounted to frame 31 with its upper end mounted to
frame 30. With reference to FIG. 3, the lower ends of tracks 58 and
60 are curved slightly upwards to accommodate the full width of
sides 15 when lowered into their lowermost position. This may or
may not be necessary depending on the overall width of the bed.
However in the preferred embodiment, the optimum width of the bed
is 32 to 34 inches which is slightly less than the overall height
of sides 15. Therefore, to accomodate sides 15 in their concealed
positions, the upper and lower edges of sides 15 are slightly
exposed. Indeed, in order to provide easy manipulation of the latch
assembly 74 to be described in more detail hereinafter, the upper
edge of sides 15 are exposed to make the latch mechanism
accessible.
A plug-type connector 65 is shown in FIGS. 1-3 for anchoring the
tracks to the particular frame element. Connector 65 is cylindrical
and includes an annular recess 66 for receipt of the particular end
of the track being anchored. It includes a nose portion 67 which
inserts into an opening provided in frame elements 30 and 31 to
anchor the track to the frame. Nose portion 67 may be threaded into
frame elements 30 and 31 with annular openings 66 aligned for the
respect of ends of the tracks. As illustrated in the drawings, the
upper end of tracks 58 and 60 are anchored just below the
termination point between upper horizontal portion 34 and slope
portion 33b of frame elements 30 and 31.
Side 15 itself is preferably comprised of a polyethylene netting 68
which is mesh-like and yieldable. A material such as Vexar is ideal
since it is sufficiently stiff to prevent sagging while at the same
time flexible enough to move along the shapes of tracks 58 and 60.
Another consideration of importance is the occasional abrupt
movements by a child causing some portions of the child's body to
strike the sides. A polyethylene netting such as Vexar will yield
under such contact to minimize the chance of injury occuring. Also,
the netting provides excellent anticlimb characteristics because
the openings of the netting are too small to penetrate with a
child's finger so that he can't get a good grip to climb with. In
fact, the Vexar netting has a slick greasy-like feel which also
makes it difficult to grip. On the other hand it provides good
visual penetration in keeping with the total omni vision aspect
into and out of the bed.
The sides of the netting are sewn to a flexible piece of extruded
piping 69 (FIG. 2) which includes a plurality of Tambour rings 70
attached thereto which slip over tracks 58 and 60 to guide and hold
side 15 within the confines of the tracks. As noted earlier in the
BACKGROUND, the sides of hospital cribs and beds are often
difficult to lower and tend to jam. The utilization of a Tambour
track arrangement provides a very smooth and easy movement for the
sides greatly reducing any tendency to jam. By properly selecting
the spacing of the rings, the movement and folding of the sides as
it is traversed along the track is very similar to a plurality of
living hinges so that there is little resistance to folding
movement of the sides. The lower margin of sides 15 are likewise
secured or sewn to a piece of extruded piping 71 similar in
configuration to that utilized for the sides. It has been found
that an extruded plastic works extremely well in that its material
properties provide sufficient strength and flexibility to conform
to the movement of sides 15 along tracks 58 and 60.
The upper margin of side 15 is anchored to a cover tube 72 which
includes a latch assembly 74 for releasing side 15 when in their
fully raised or intermediate positions. Cover tube 72 is preferably
a cylindrical tube and includes a radial portion 73 having a
generally U-shaped configuration for fitting over the upper margin
of netting 68 for anchoring the same thereto by sewing or other
conventional means. Each end of cover tube 72 includes a pair of
aligned circular openings 75 (FIG. 6) spaced slightly inwardly from
each end in general alignment with Tambour rings 70. The Tambour
track 60 is mounted through openings 75 thus securely anchoring the
upper margin of the sides to the track. At the mid portions of
cover tube 72 are a pair of generally L-shaped slots 76 and 77. The
main portion of slots 76 and 77 extend longitudinally with respect
to tube 72 while their leg portions 78 extend laterally in the same
direction from the inner ends respectively of slots 76 and 77.
Slots 76 and 77 permit the manipulation of latch mechanism 74 as
will be described in more detail hereinafter.
A pair of latch tubes, left hand tube 79 and right hand tube 80 are
telescoped within cover tube 72 and through their combined lengths
extend longitudinally between the Tambour tracks mounted on each
end of the bed. Tubes 79 and 80 are adapted to be biased outwardly
so that their outer ends are urged against tracks 60 in accordance
with the operation of the latch mechanism which will now be
described. Left hand tube 79 extends beyond the mid portion of the
bed and includes at its inner end a reduced portion 81 having an
elongated slot 82 open at its inner end. Spaced outwardly from
reduced portion 81 is a tap 83 for receipt of a latching pin 84
shown in FIG. 2. Right hand tube 80 is similar in cross section to
tube 79 except that it does not include a portion corresponding to
reduced portion 81 of tube 79. Rather, tube 80 is adapted at its
inner end to receive portion 81 for telescoping movement within its
inner end. Spaced inwardly from its inner end is a tap 85 (FIG. 8)
adapted to receive latching pin 86 (FIG. 2). In addition to tap 85,
right hand tube 80 includes a radial opening 87 spaced inwardly
from its inner end a distance approximately equal to the
longitudinal extension of reduced portion 81. Opening 87 is adapted
to receive a threaded pin 88 (FIG. 6) which extends through the
diameter of tube 80. A coil spring 89 is inserted concentrically
within the inner end of tube 80 against pin 88 for abutment at its
opposite end by the inner end of tube 79. In this fashion, when
tube 79 is positioned within cover tube 72 along with tube 80 so
that portion 81 is telescoped within the inner end of tube 80,
spring 89 is compressed between pin 88 and the inner end of tube 79
so that tubes 79 and 80 are biased outwardly. With the tubes
inserted so that taps 83 and 85 are exposed beneath slots 76 and
77, latch pins 84 and 86 are threaded respectively into taps 83 and
85 to secure the tubes within cover tube 72. A slightly modified
form to that shown in FIGS. 6-8 is shown in FIG. 2 wherein the
reduced portion 81 is replaced with a rod 81a which fits within the
bore of tube 79 and is anchored thereto by a pin 91. Rod 81
telescopes into tube 80 which includes spring 89 and secured in the
bore of tube 80 in the same fashion as described with respect to
FIGS. 6-8.
The outer ends of tubes 79 and 80 include a generally U-shaped
radially extending keeper slot 90 (shown only on tube 80 in FIG. 8)
which has a cross sectional diameter less than that of tracks 58
and 60 so that except in specific instances, the outer ends of
tubes 79 and 80 abut against tracks with pins 84 and 86 positioned
in their innermost position in slots 76 and 77 opposite to that
shown in FIG. 6. However, at two selected points, tracks 58 and 60
include a reduced cross-sectional portion or notch 92 (one of which
is shown on track 60 FIGS. 6 and 6A). Slot 90 is designed to fit
into notches 92 to lock sides 15 to the tracks at that particular
position. Notches 92 are positioned on each track 58 and 60 at the
extreme upper end of the tracks and at the intermediate positions
between the vertical portion 63 and sloped portion 64 of track 60.
Thus, except for these two positions, latch mechanism 74 will
always be in what is referred to as a travel position, i.e., the
side is free for travel up or down along the tracks. However, when
tubes 79 and 80 are moved into alignment with a set of notches,
spring 89 urges the tubes outwardly so slots 90 engage notches 92
thus stopping and locking the side at that position.
To prevent locking engagement by keeper slots 90, pins 84 and 86
must be manipulated inwardly to prevent engagement. Thus, to move a
side from the lowermost position to the uppermost position, the
nurse simply squeezes pins 84 and 86 inwardly and lifts the side up
past the intermediate notches until the sides reach the upper limit
of the Tambour tracks whereupon the pins are released so that tubes
79 and 80 snap into engagement with notches 92 at the upper end of
the tracks. Consequently, to release a side from its up or
intermediate position, pins 84 and 86 are simply squeezed together
and the side is lowered. If the side is in its lowermost position
and it is desired to raise it to the intermediate position, the
nurse simply lifts the side up without manipulating pins 84 and 86
until they snap into the intermediate notches 92. If on the other
hand the side is in its uppermost position and it is desired to
lower it to the intermediate position, the nurse initially
manipulates pins 84 and 86 to release mechanism 74 whereupon
without further manipulation, the side is simply lowered until
tubes 79 and 80 snap into place in intermediate notches 92.
In a particular aspect of this invention, it is desired to provide
easy adjusting sides which require but one hand to manipulate. Many
times a nurse has one arm occupied in holding equipment or an
infant and it is desired to manipulate a side without putting the
child or equipment down. This invention provides means for
automatically locking latch mechanism 74 in a release or travel
position so that the side can be independently gripped and moved
without grasping pins 84 and 86. To accomplish this, reference is
made to slots 90 which have an overall U-shape configuration. It
will be appreciated that if tubes 79 and 80 are rotated so that it
is impossible to align slots 90 with tracks 58 and 60, regardless
of the elevation of the side, it cannot engage either of the
intermediate or upper position notches. To accomplish this, the
nurse with one hand simply squeezes pins 84 and 86 together and
when they reach their innermost positions rotates them upwardly
into the leg portions of slots 82. Once rotated into this position,
the bias of spring 89 maintains the pins in the leg portion of the
slots and the sides are now free to travel entirely from the
lowermost position to the uppermost position without snapping into
the intermediate notches. Likewise, it can travel from the
uppermost position to the lowermost position without snapping into
the intermediate notches. A slight modification is shown in FIG. 2
wherein the width of slots 76a and 77a sufficiently exceed the
diameter of pins 84 and 86 permitting sufficient rotation of tubes
79 and 80 to lock them in their travel position.
In the embodiment shown, the overall length of tubes 79 and 80 are
selected so that when the latch mechanism is in its travel
position, there is sufficient engagement between the outer ends of
tubes 79 and 80 with tracks 58 and 60 so that the sides are
frictionally held in any particular position. That is, when the
sides are released or let go of by the user, they will not
automatically fall by their gravitational weight. Instead, they
require positive motivation to raise or lower the sides. This is
particularly useful when the lock means is utilized since it
permits the nurse or orderly to manipulate pins 84 and 86 into the
lock open position whereupon the same hand can be removed from the
side for more firmly gripping it to raise or lower it without
worrying about it dropping suddenly down.
An important safety feature provided by this invention is the
inaccessability to the occupant to latching pins 84 and 86 for
manipulation of the latch. Cover tube 72 and latch tubes 79 and 80
are arranged so that pins 84 and 86 extend vertically downwards on
the outside of netting 68. By simply locating the latch mechanism
on the outside of the sides, they are difficult to get at by the
child. To begin with, the Vexar netting prevents penetration by the
child's fingers for maniuplation from within the crib. Therefore,
it is necessary that the child reach up over the top of the side
and then downwards to handle the latches. The vertical downward
orientation simply makes it more difficult should the child be able
to reach over the top of the side. When latch mechanism 74 is
locked into the travel position, pins 84 and 86 extend horizontally
outwards which places them in slightly closer proximity to the
child, however, this position is envisioned as being used only when
an attendant is near.
Previously, it has been emphasized that one preferred aspect of
sides 15 is its anti-climb characteristic which discourages younger
infants from climbing out of the bed when it is utilized as a
playpen or crib. The utilization of a polyethylene netting such as
Vexar contributes to this in that it cannot be penetrated by an
infant's fingers and it is also slippery to the touch thereby
making it difficult to get a firm grip on the netting. An
additional and important anti-climb characteristic is provided by
the inwardly sloped upper portion 64 of tracks 58 and 60 which
guides sides 15 into a likewise inwardly sloped configuration when
the sides are locked in their uppermost position. This inwardly
sloped portion greatly reduces the opportunity for a young infant
to climb out of the crib thereby reducing the possibility for
injury resulting from a fall. Should the child be capable of
gripping some portion to lift himself up onto the side, its inward
slope makes it much more difficult to traverse.
Having described the Tambour sides in detail, it should be obvious
how to raise and lower a particular side independently of the other
into a fully lowered, intermediate or fully raised position. As
illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 29, when the sides are lowered into
their fully lowered position, they are essentially concealed and
positioned under the bed platform 19 and hence protected from undue
wear and tear which is always present when children are around.
Referring now back to FIG. 1, mattress 17 is shown mounted on
platform 19 which is secured to support frame 14. The mattress and
platform are shown in one of several Trendelenburg positions.
Briefly, Trendelenburg positioning refers to the angle at which the
patient lies with respect to the horizontal. This ranges from
0.degree. to a plus or minus angle, i.e., the head can be raised
with respect to the feet or lowered with respect thereto. Since the
concept of Trendelenburg positioning is well known, only the
details of the structure permitting this positioning will be
described herein.
Mattress support platform 19 is preferably comprised of a generally
rectangular frame member having a pair of sides 95 and ends 96
interconnected or formed as a unitary member. To conserve material
and reduce the overall weight as much as possible, sides 95 and
ends 96 preferably comprise aluminum channel elements which provide
sufficient rigidity and strength for support of the occupant. In
addition to platform 19, an additional mattress frame 18 is
connected to platform 19 and adjustable for Gatch positioning. The
mattress is secured to frame 18 which in turn is connected to
platform 19. Each side 95 of platform 19 includes one or more
longitudinally spaced and aligned openings 97 for mounting frame 18
thereto.
In keeping with the principal objectives of this invention the
utility of this bed is enhanced by providing means for
Trendelenburg positioning. On the other hand, since cost is not an
insignificant factor, the preferred embodiment utilizes manual
adjustment although mechanized adjustment could be provided.
Referring to FIG. 10, an arm 97 is secured to each end of sides 95.
The arms extend from the lower surface to permit mattress 17 to fit
over platform 19 as will be described hereinafter. Each arm extends
outwardly at an angle from sides 95 and then longitudinally outward
parallel thereto. A generally U-shaped handle bar 98 is connected
at each end to a pair of arms 97 to form a lift handle similar in
part to a stretcher. Handles 98 include a mid portion 99 extending
parallel to ends 96 of the platform and exceed the width of the
platform. Each end of handle 98 is turned inwardly at right angles
to mid portion 99 for connection to the longitudinal extending end
portions of arms 97. They are connected to arms 97 by a connector
100 which also acts as a guide to permit quick and easy
Irendelenburg positioning adjustment.
Connector 100 (FIG. 4) has a tubular configuration and includes an
outer and inner portion 101 and 102 separated by a mid portion 103.
The support of platform 19, mattress frame 18 and mattress 17 is
provided by the association between connectors 100 and
Trendelenburg plates 20. Since arms 97 extend essentially from each
corner of platform 19, four plates 20 are provided, one for
association with each arm and connector. In describing the
cooperation of connectors 100 with Trendelenburg plates 20, only
one will be critically examined, the remainder of which are
Trendelenburg identical.
Each end frame 26 includes a Trendelenburg plate 20 affixed to each
lower inner corner. Plate 20 is relatively flat to lie in the plane
of ends 26. They are vertically elongated and shaped at lower end
106 to nestle within the contour of the termination between lower
horizontal portion 32 and lower vertical portion 33a of each frame
elements 30 and 31. In the preferred embodiment, plate 20 is welded
to the appropriate interior portions of frame elements 30 and 31
and are comprised of aluminum or chrome-plated steel. Each plate
includes a vertical elongated slot 107 with an enlarged opening 108
and 109 at each end and an intermediate enlarged opening 110 in
between the end openings. Opening 109 has a diameter in excess of
the largest cross sectional dimension of connector 100 to permit
endwise movement of connector 100 into and through opening 109. In
this fashion, platform 19 can be attached to end frames 26 through
plates 20 by inserting connectors 100 through openings 109;
affixing portion 102 to the outer end of arms 97 of platform 19;
and then affixing handle bar 98 to the opposite portion 101 of
connector 100 to securely confine platform 19 within the movement
of slots 107 of plates 20. Thus, regardless of the platform
position in the slot, it along with frame 18 and mattress 17 are
positively suspended from frame 14.
Referring to FIG. 4, each end of handle 98 is securely affixed to
end 101 of connector 100 in a conventional fashion. The outer end
of arms 97 however are secured to connector 100 for sliding
engagement relative thereto. In the preferred embodiment, arm 97
telescopes within connector 100 and is a solid bar. An elongated
recess 111 is provided in arm 97 but does not extend to its outer
end. A set screw 112 is threadable radially through end portion 102
of connector 100 for extension into slot 111 so that connector 100
and attached handle 98 are slidable endwise relative to arms 97 the
length of recess 111. The significance of this will be clarified
shortly.
Turning now to the cross-sectional configuration of each connector
100 (FIG. 4), each end portion 101 and 102 increases in cross
section inwardly from their respective outer ends to a maximum at
the juncture with mid portion 103. Mid portion 103 has a cross
section which varies as follows. At the juncture with end portion
102, the cross sectional diameter of mid portion 103 decreases
rapidly to a minimum at 113 and then slopes upwardly once more
toward a maximum at the juncture with end portion 101 at 114. Thus,
the overall cross sectional diameter along any point of mid portion
103 is substantially less than the maximums of end portions 101 and
102. The configuration of mid portion 103 is selected such that at
its minimum cross sectional point 113, it will slide freely up or
down elongated slot 107 of plate 20. However, when it is positioned
within one of the openings 108, 109 or 110, endwise movement of
handle 98 and connectors 100 inwardly permits movement of the
connectors so that the enlarged cross section configuration of mid
portion 103 at 114 is aligned with slot 107 and hence prevented
from vertical movement relative thereto since it is substantially
greater dimensionally. In this fashion, the height of each end of
platform 19 is adjusted. With the platform arranged for example as
shown in FIG. 1, the nurse or orderly simply pulls outwardly on
handle 98 so that connectors 100 and handle 98 move relative to
arms 97 until the point 113 is aligned with slot 107. At this time,
the end of platform 19 can be raised to either of two positions.
The first position is when connector 100 is aligned within opening
110 and the second is when connector 100 is aligned with opening
109. After selecting the desired position, the nurse or orderly
simply pushes inwardly on handle 98 until portion 114 of mid
portion 103 is positioned within the desired opening. This locks
the connector in the slot since this enlarged cross sectional
dimension cannot traverse slot 107. Thus, the connectors on each
end of platform 19 are selectively captured within one of openings
108, 109 or 110 to position that end of platform 19 at the desired
level. In this fashion, the Trendelenburg positioning of the
platform is selected from the head up to the head down or level
position. It will also be appreciated that the cooperation of
plates 20 and connectors 100 do provide some height adjustment for
the platform independent of lift mechanism 40 described
hereinbefore. Although only three openings are shown in plates 20,
more could be utilized although three have proven to provide
adequate Trendelenburg positioning.
An alternative configuration for mid portion 103 of connector 100
is a non-linear portion (not shown) which cams portions 114 into
one of the selected openings thus necessitating affirmative
movement of each connector from the slot to alter its position.
Referring now to FIGS. 10-13 mattress frame 18 will be described in
detail. The primary function of frame 18 is to provide for Gatch
position adjustment. Gatch positioning is well known in the art and
refers to the knees-up, back-up arrangements for a patient
reclining in a bed. Again, within the objectives of this invention,
manual Gatch positioning is provided in order to keep the overall
costs within an acceptable range. However, it will be appreciated
that mechanized Gatch positioning could be utilized.
Frame 18 is essentially comprised of a pair of sub-frame assemblies
116 and 117 each of which is pivotally connected to platform 19.
Sub-frame 116 (FIG. 10) provides the adjustable back support for
the patient and is adjustable from the horizontal position to a
plurality of incline positions for raising the patients back and
head. Sub-frame 117 supports the patient's legs between a
horizontal and inclined knees-up position.
Frame 116 includes a pair of generally U-shaped telescoping frames
118 and 119 with the legs 120 of frame 118 forming a telescoping
fit within the legs 121 of frame 119. Legs 121 are preferably
tubular box-shaped channel members so that when legs 120 are
inserted therein, frame 118 is prevented from rotating relative to
frame 119. Legs 120 include a pair of aligned slots 122 through
their sides and are concealed within legs 121 when telescoped
therein. Legs 121 include a pair of aligned openings 123 through
their sides for insertion of adjusting pins 124 which when inserted
through openings 123 and slots 122 prevent endwise removal of upper
frame 118 from lower frame 119. According to the length of slots
122, the overall length of sub-frame 116 can be adjusted. With
frame 118 inserted in frame 119, a rectangular configuration is
provided.
The web portion 125, of frame 119 is preferably a hollow tubular
element having an overall length sufficient to fit snugly between
the inner walls of sides 95 of platform 19. It is aligned with one
of the pairs of openings 99 provided through sides 95 for insertion
of a fastening element 126 on each side which fits through opening
99 into each end of web portion 125 for threaded engagement
therewith which when tightened locks sub-frame 116 in its desired
angular position relative to platform 19. Thus, to raise back
support frame 116 relative to platform 19, the nurse or orderly
simply loosens elements 126 on each side of the subframe and raises
the frame to its desired angle of elevation whereupon elements 126
are tightened to secure the sub-frame in its desired position. A
handle 127 is preferably attached near the outer end of each leg
120 of frame 118 to facilitate the lifting and lowering of
sub-frame 116 into its desired position. The back support frame 116
is thus rotatable independently of the knee support adjustment
frame 117. Preferably fasteners 126 always maintain sufficient
frictional engagement with web 125 to prevent abrupt downward
movement of back support 116 when it is lowered.
Referring now to the knee support sub-frame 117, it is also
comprised of a pair of frames 130 and 131 which are interconnected.
Frame 131 is similar to frame 121 described with respect to the
back support frame in that it is generally U-shaped including a web
portion 132 and two legs 133. Frame 130 is comprised of a generally
H-shaped frame (FIG. 11) having a pair of lower leg portions 134
and upper leg portions 138. Legs 134 are adapted dimensionally to
fit snugly outside legs 133 of frame 131. They include a
longitudinally extending recess or keeper slot 136 (FIGS. 10 and
12) adapted for receipt of a longitudinally extending keeper 137
extending laterally from the outer sides of legs 133 so that when
these legs are flexed inwardly to permit keepers 137 to project
into slots 136, frames 130 and 131 are interconnected so that they
will not rotate relative to each other. At the same time, keepers
137 are permitted to slide endwise within slots 136 so that
longitudinal adjustment of subframe 117 is provided. The upper legs
138 of frame 130 slopes downwardly at an angle with respect to
lower legs 134 to provide for knee bending when frame 117 is raised
into a Gatch position. Since frame 18 is sized to fit with sides 95
and ends 96 of frame 19, legs 138 project downwardly from mattress
17 when lowered to permit a horizontal bed surface. The upper and
lower leg of frame 130 are rigidly interconnected by cross support
135. According to the preferred embodiment, the knees of the
patient should be located approximately above cross bar 135 which
is where legs 138 slope downwardly. Since children vary greatly in
size and growth rates, lengthwise adjustment of the positions of
cross bar 135 is essential. In fact, the length-wise growth rate of
the thighs tends to exceed that of other bone structures in
children. Thus, some adjustment is necessary in order that this
type of bed accommodate various sized children. The cooperation of
keepers 137 and slots 136 provide a sufficient range of adjustment
in the overall length of knee adjustment support frame 117. Thus,
it is possible in accordance with this invention to locate the
juncture point between upper and lower legs 134 and 138 beneath the
patients knees simply by extending or retracting the upper frame
130 relative to frame 131.
The Gatch position is achieved by pivotally mounting sub-frame 117
relative to platform 19 in a fashion similar to back support
adjustment sub-frame 118. The web portion 132 of frame 131 is
preferably tubular and extends dimensionally to fit snugly within
sides 95 of platform 19. When aligned with one of the pairs of
openings 99 provided in sides 95 of frame 19, appropriate fasteners
(not shown) are inserted through openings 99 to pivotally secure
sub-frame 117 to platform 19.
A support brace 140 is swingably mounted to frame 117 to lock
sub-frame 117 into the Gatch (knee-up) position. Brace 140 includes
a horizontal portion 141 and a pair of upwardly extending
finger-like projections 142 bent outwardly at their upper ends to
form a horizontal pin portion 143. Pins 143 are adapted to fit
within an opening 144 provided at the outer end of leg 133 of frame
element 131, pins 143 being of sufficient length to fit through
openings 144 and extend into slots 136 of frame element 130. Once
installed, brace 140 is swingable from the vertical configuration
shown in FIGS. 10-13 to a horizontal configuration. In the
horizontal position, brace 140 is sandwiched between platform 19
and frame 130. In its vertical orientation as shown in the
drawings, the leg support frame 117 is raised into the Gatch
position. A keeper plate 145 having an indent 286 is mounted on
each inner face of sides 95 of platform 19 to anchor sub-frame 117
into the Gatch position. Plate 145 includes a vertical portion 287
having a sloped upper edge which dams the ends of horizontal brace
portion 141 into and out of indent 286 when sub-frame 117 is lifted
into or out of the Gatch position.
As a result of the foregoing, the manipulation of Gatch frame 18
should be obvious. In order to raise back support frame 118 into a
desired angular position with relation to platform 19, fasteners
126 are loosened to permit free rotation of frame 18 by gripping
handle 127. When the desired position is reached, elements 126 are
tightened to secure the back rest in the desired position. In order
to raise the knee support frame 117 into the Gatch position, frame
117 is lifted up to permit brace 141 to swing downwardly into a
vertical position until brace 141 is captured in recess 286 of
keeper 145. It will be appreciated that appropriate dampers can be
utilized in connection with the rotation of knee support frame 117
so that the movement is not abrupt. In order to adjust the overall
length of knee support frame 117, upper portion 130 can be moved
endwise relative to lower portion 131 by the inter-engagement of
keepers 137 in slots 136.
Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 9, the latter figure illustrates
mattress 17 in perspective at a significantly reduced scale. FIG. 1
shows the mattress installed on the finished product with a sheet
141 completely covering the mattress. Mattress 17 is designed to
completely shield frame 18 except for the protrusion of handles
127. Ideally, mattress 17 should be thin relative to its length and
width to facilitate bending without significantly wrinkling sheet
141 as frame 18 is manipulated into one or more Gatch positions. In
the preferred embodiment, the mattress is molded from ABS plastic
and includes a foam overlay of urethane. This provides a mattress
material which is not only durable, but extremely light to handle
and extremely flexible to permit folding movement into various
Gatch positions. In addition, it is not condusive to soiling and in
any event is easy to clean. The particular details of mattress 17
are shown clearly in FIGS. 14-23.
The basic cross sectional configuration of mattress 17 is shown in
FIG. 15. The underside 142 is a molded or extruded plastic having
depending rib and channel portions to provide sufficient strength
and utility, the details of which will be described hereinafter.
The entire upper margin 143 of underside 142 is continuous and
smooth so that an upper layer 144 of polyurethane foam can be
attached thereto. This upper layer of foam provides the essential
body support for the mattress while the underside 143 is functional
to receive frames 18 and 19 as well as provide the requisite
bending and strength for the mattress.
Referring to FIG. 14, underside 142 includes three central
longitudinally spaced portions 145, 146 and 147 which provide the
central strength and support respectively for the legs, thighs and
back of the patient. A spacing 157 is provided intermediate
portions 145 and 146, (FIGS. 14 and 15) in which are disposed two
laterally extending box-like ribs 148 and 149 spaced equally from
each other and the adjacent central portions 145 and 146. This
provides three identical channel-ways 150, 151 and 152 extending
laterally across the width of mattress 17. Each channel-way
includes a pair of side walls 153 and a ceiling 154 dimensional to
receive cross support 135 (FIG. 11) of Gatch frame 18 which is the
point of bend for the knees of the patient. As noted earlier, the
overall length of the knee support subframe 117 is adjustable to
accommodate children or infants having thighs of varying lengths.
The provisions of channel-ways 150, 151 and 152 permits three
selected adjustments which has proven adequate within the range of
patients for which the bed is designed. The width and depth of the
channel-ways is selected to provide a snug friction fit over cross
bar 135. The ceiling 154 of each channel-way includes a pair of
indents 155 extending laterally across the ceiling to form what is
known as a living hinge. This living hinge permits continuous
bending of the mattress at this point while reducing any tendency
to tear or fatigue.
Intermediate central support portions 146 and 147, there is a
spacing 156 substantially wider than channel-ways 150, 151 or 152.
This spacing defines the juncture and bending point between the
back rest sub-frame 116 and the knee support sub-frame 117 (FIG.
10). In addition, the angular rotation of the back rest support is
substantially greater than the knee support. As shown in FIG. 15,
the normal range of bending the back rest support is between 0 and
90.degree.. In order to facilitate bending, a pair of laterally
extending indents 155a are provided laterally along spacing 156
indentical to the indents located at spacing 57 to form a living
hinge. Spacing 156 is also utilized to accommodate web portions 125
and 132 which form the pivotal axis for sub-frame assemblies 116
and 117.
A plurality of inverted cup-shaped openings 180 are randomly
provided in each of the central portions 145, 146 and 147 in order
to economize the amount of material required without reducing its
overall strength and support. These spaced recesses 180 also tend
to provide a more comfortable mattress since it yields
proportionately better than a solid mass. Referring to FIG. 15,
ribs 148 and 149 are also preferably hollow and tubular in
configuration to reduce the overall amount of material required as
well as enhance its function as a mattress.
Referring now to FIGS. 14 and 16, a pair of generally continuous
grooves 158 and 162 are spaced inwardly with respect to each other
and from the outer periphery of mattress 17. The outer groove 158
is formed by a pair of downwardly depending flanges 159 and 160
(FIG. 23) forming a pair of side walls 161. Groove 158 is
continuous except for its interruption at the spacings 156 and 157
between central portions 145, 146 and 146, 147 which spacings
extend laterally the entire width of mattress 17. Consequently,
groove 158 is comprised of two generally U-shaped end portions and
an intermediate straight portion on each side extending the length
of central portion 146. Where this type of mattress is utilized
with a rigid frame, the groove could be continuous.
Disposed within each portion of groove 158 is a sheet retaining
extrusion 164. Extrusion 164 is preferably tubular and has a box
cross section so that it can be snugly disposed within groove 158
intermediate side walls 161. The lower ends 165 of extrusion 164
are formed inwardly and upwardly into contact with each other at
their innermost ends 166 to form a pair of gripping fingers 167
resiliently biased into contact with each other to grip the
peripheral edging 168 of sheet 141. This provides a very simple and
convenient sheet gripping element extending substantially
continuously around the periphery of mattress 17. The nurse or
orderly simply places the sheet over the top side of mattress 17
and wedges the peripheral edges 168 of the sheet in between fingers
167. Preferably, fingers 167 are flexible enough to permit a
person's fingers to be wedged therebetween while at the same time
they are of sufficient resiliency to return to their normal
abutting position to grip the sheet therebetween after one's
fingers are removed. In this fashion, the sheet can be quickly
removed from extrusion 164.
Extrusion 164 provides two significant advantages. It eliminates
the somewhat clumsy and ineffective traditional way of anchoring a
sheet to a mattress which is to simply fold the overflap beneath
the mattress. This type of tucking can quickly become ruffled. In
addition, it permits the utilization of a sheet of smaller size in
relation to a given mattress size since the edging need extend over
the mattress only a distance to anchor it within fingers 167.
Therefore, sheet gripping extrusion 164 provides economical savings
in relation to the size of sheet required in addition to making the
overall job of changing sheets much simpler. Although other
materials are envisioned, in the preferred embodiment, extrusion
164 is comprised of an extruded plastic tubing.
Groove 162 is spaced inwardly from groove 158 by flange 160, the
inner portion 169 of which forms the outer boundary of groove 162.
The triangular configuration of flanges 159 and 160 shown in FIG.
23 are to provide sufficient strength in side walls 161 to provide
a quasi-wedge engagement between the side walls and extrusion 164.
The utilization of groove 162 does not necessitate a wedge
engagement and therefore a vertical side wall is not required. The
innermost side of groove 162 is formed by the outer walls of
central portions 145, 146 and 147. Groove 162 similar to groove 158
is interrupted at the spacings between the central portions and
hence is essentially comprised of two generally U-shaped end
portions and a pair of intermediate straight portions extending
essentially the length of central portion 146. Groove 162 is
substantially wider than groove 158 and is designed to accommodate
the placement of mattress 17 over platform 19 and frame 18. The
depth of groove 162 is essentially equal to the height of sides 95
and ends 96 of platform 18 which are disposed in groove 162 along
its outer portion. It is less than the depth of groove 158, the
significance of which will be clarified shortly. Since sub-frames
116 and 117 of frame 18 fit within the confines of platform sides
95, they are disposed in the innermost portion of groove 162. In
this fashion, central portion 147 is disposed within the sides and
web portions of frames 118 and 119 (FIG. 10); central portion 146
is disposed intermediate the sides and web portions of frames 130
and 131 while central portion 145 is disposed within upper legs 158
and cross support 135 of frame 130. It will be appreciated that as
frame 18 is manipulated to raise the knees and back, portions of
mattress 17 are lifted off and away from support platform 19.
However, when frame 18 is in the overall horizontal position,
mattress 17 encloses and shields both the mattress frame 18 and
support frame 19.
The overall length of frame 18 is such that the ends of legs 138
(FIGS. 10-13) do not extend over end 96 of support frame 19. Thus,
when frame 18 is in its generally horizontal position, legs 138
which are angularly related to the remainder of frame 18 extend
downwardly away from platform 19 permitting mattress 17 to lie
completely in a horizontal plane.
Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, a recess 175 (FIG. 16) is
provided to accommodate handles 127 (FIG. 10) which are attached to
the upper surface of frame 118. As mentioned earlier, handles 127
extend laterally to each side of the back support adjust frame 116
and since the sides of this frame lie within sides 95 of platform
19, the handles are attached to the upper surface and project over
the upper surface of sides 95. The handle recesses 175 are
positioned in the upper surface of groove 162 which is one reason
that groove 162 is less in depth than groove 158. This is best
illustrated in FIG. 17 which is a cross sectional view of mattress
17 taken along line 17--17 of FIG. 16.
FIGS. 17-22 represent various cross sectional views of underside
142 of mattress 17 and illustrate in detail the particular
preferred configuration. As noted earlier, one primary objective is
to provide a mattress having a low profile without sacrificing
durability and comfort. FIGS. 17-22 illustrate a configuration for
a mattress molded from ABS plastic which achieves these objectives.
In the preferred embodiment, mattress 17 has a combined thickness
of 2 inches. Preferably, the thickness should not exceed 3 inches
or it becomes cumbersome to manipulate. In addition, mattress 17 is
anchored to frame 19 to prevent it from sliding down as it is
folded.
Having described one particular form of my invention in detail, its
operation should be obvious. Briefly, the height of the bed surface
(FIG. 1) from the floor is adjustable between what has been found
to be an optimum range of 12-14 inches at its lowest elevation to
the highest elevation of approximately 42 inches. The lower
elevation is not only ideal when the bed is utilized as a playpen,
but with the sides lowered, it permits a child to sit up naturally
in bed with his legs extended over the side in contact with the
floor. Selection of a particular height is achieved simply by
operating a three-way switch to the up or down position so that
bi-directional motor 41 through worm gear 43 rotates rod 45 which
cooperates with vertical rod 51 and end post 13 through a pair of
right angle beveled gears 49 and 50. Rotation of rod 51 provides
axial displacement upwards or downwards of worm gear 54 which is
anchored to end frame post 29 to raise or lower support frame 14
which includes mattress 17, mattress frame 18 and platform 19. Each
end post 13 includes a lift mechanism 40 so that motor 41
simultaneously acts on both end frames of the bed.
A particular Trendelenburg position is achieved by simply pulling
out on handle bar 98 (FIG. 10) so that the two connectors attached
thereto are positioned with mid portion 103 aligned in slot 107
(FIGS. 3 and 4). At this position, connector 100 and hence platform
19 is free to move vertically in slot 107 into the upper, middle or
lowdr position wherein connector 100 is aligned with one of the
openings 108, 109 or 110. Having selected the desired position, the
opposite force is exerted on handle bar 98 by pushing it inwardly
until the larger cross sectional portion 114 of mid portion 103 is
positioned in one of openings 108, 109 or 110 thus preventing
further vertical movement in slot 107. The unique arrangement of
plates 20 and connectors 100 provide positive and reverse
Trendelenburg positioning as well as a means separate from lift
mechanism 40 for adjusting the height of platform 19 and hence
mattress 17 from the floor elevation. That is, with both ends of
platform 19 aligned in the same openings in slot 107, three levels
of elevation are provided.
Mattress 17 is positionable at any angle from the horizontal to a
vertical chair-like configuration by simply releasing fastener
elements 126 (FIG. 10) to permit rotation of frame 116 into the
desired angle with respect to platform 19. After loosening elements
126, the nurse or orderly simply lifts one of handles 127 and lifts
the sub-frame to the desired position whereupon fastener elements
126 are tightened. To raise the knees, sub-frame 117 is rotated up
until brace 141 is permitted to rotate into a vertical orientation
as shown in FIG. 10. Upon release of sub-frame 117, the thigh and
leg support is raised into the Gatch position. One particular
illustration of a child in a generally upright Gatch position, is
illustrated in FIG. 15.
With sides 15 in their lowermost position, it is thus simple to
prepare the beds for occupancy by extending a sheet 141 over
mattress 17 and simply folding the extending flap portion beneath
the mattress and inserting the peripheral edges 168 intermediate
fingers 167 of sheet keeper 164. The pinching effect of fingers 167
permit the sheet to be stretched tautly over mattress 17 presenting
a very tidy appearance.
Referring briefly to FIGS. 1 and 2, the adjustment of sides 15 is
likewise quick and easy. In its lowermost position, it is in the
travel position and to raise it to the intermediate position, one
simply raises it up until latch tubes 79 and 80 (FIG. 6) snap into
place with slot 90 fitting into the first pair of notches 92
positioned at the upper end of the vertical portion of tambour
tracks 58 and 60. If on the other hand, it is desired to raise the
sides completely to the uppermost position, the nurse or orderly
simply squeezes in on latch pins 84 and 86 preventing latch tubes
79 and 80 from snapping into the intermediate notches. Once the
upper margin of side 15 clears the intermediate notches 92, pins 84
and 86 can be released since the side will remain in a travel
position. Further lifting of the side will bring tubes 79 and 80
into alignment with upper notches 92. Should one arm of the nurse
or orderly be occupied wherein it is difficult to grip pins 84 and
86 and at the same time lift side 15, the side can be locked into
an opened travel position by simply squeezing pins 84 and 86
together and rotating them upwards into a horizontal position
thereby rotating slot 90 into non-alignment with Tambour tracks 58
and 60 preventing it from catching in either of the intermediate or
up position. Of course to lock it into one of these positions, the
pins must be rotated downwardly again so that slots 90 are in
alignment with Tambour tracks 58 and 60 for placement in one of the
intermediate or upper notches 92. In accordance with the preferred
embodiment, the sides are not locked in their lower positions.
Should a side be in the intermediate or raised position and it is
desired to manipulate it into one of the other positions, the same
sequence of operation is available to the nurse or orderly as
described herein. The frictional engagement between the ends of
tubes 79 and 80 with tambour tracks 58 and 60 is such that
regardless of the position of side 15, it will maintain itself in
that position unless affirmatively gripped and motivated by an
external force. Thus, the nurse or orderly need not worry about a
side dropping rapidly downward once it is released from the upper
or intermediate position if it is necessary to remove one's hand
from the side.
Finally, either end panel 16 is removable from end 26 in the event
that additional orthopedic equipment be utilized which extends out
beyond the bed. Hence, in a situation such as the patient requiring
traction, it may be desirable to remove one of the end panels. This
is accomplished simply by flexing panel 16 inwardly until its upper
margin clears keeper plates 38. As noted earlier the panels are
preferably transparent and along with sides 15 provide essentially
360.degree. omni vision into and out of the bed.
Referring now to FIGS. 24-31, bed 10 is shown in a variety of
positions which illustrate in part although not completely, the
flexibility of the bed for utilization as a crib, playpen or youth
bed. FIG. 24 illustrates bed 10 in its optimum position as a
playpen. Mattress 17 is in its lowermost elevation position which
is approximately 12-14 inches above the floor. Both sides 15 are up
with platform 19 positioned horizontally in its lowermost position
as is Gatch frame 18. The Vexar netting makes this type of crib a
very safe crib in addition to permitting a free flow of ventilation
through the crib. The clear plastic end walls along with Vexar
netting sides provide complete visability into the crib for the
nurse or attendant to ascertain immediately where and what the
child is doing.
FIG. 25 illustrates the bed in exactly the same arrangement as
shown in FIG. 24 except that it is now raised to its extreme
maximum position so that mattress 17 is approximately 42 inches
from the surface of the floor. In this position, when the sides are
up, bed 10 is particularly adaptable as a crib. The raised
elevation makes it easy for the attendant or nurse to work in and
around the crib without having to bend down too far.
Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, bed 10 is shown exactly as shown in
FIG. 24 except that in FIG. 28, one side 15 is in its lowermost
position with the other being completely raised while in FIG. 29,
both sides are in their lowermost position. In these instances, the
bed is particularly adaptable for use with youths wherein the fear
of the youth falling out of the bed accidentally is not great. On
the other hand, if the youth is mobile, he may wish to enter or
leave the bed by himself and therefore the overall elevation of the
bed is determined by the particular size of the child. For
instance, the child may many times wish to simply sit up in the bed
with his feet extending over one side and resting on the floor. Of
course by simple manipulation of lift means 40, the bed can be
elevated to any desired position to accommodate a particular size
child. Depending on the particular position of the bed in a
particular room, it may or may not be desirable to have one of the
sides up or down. In all four of the various positions described so
far with reference to FIGS. 24, 25, 28, and 29, the bed support
platform 19; mattress 18 and mattress 17 are in a completely
horizontal flat position. In other words, it is particularly
positioned for what is considered the normal horizontal bed
configuration.
Referring now to FIG. 26, the bed is illustrated in a particular
Gatch and Trendelenburg position. The Trendelenburg position is
reversed in that the feet are elevated above the head. It is shown
in the maximum reverse Trendelenburg position in that the right end
of platform 19 is positioned in the lowermost position while the
left end is in its highermost position. Also, the back support
sub-frame has not been rotated so that the patients back will not
be positioned angularly with respect to platform 19. However, the
leg support sub-frame has been moved into the knees-up
position.
FIG. 27 illustrates the bed in a particular Gatch position while
the Trendelenburg angle is zero with platform 19 being located in
the lowermost position of the Trendelenburg plate slots. In the
particular position illustrated, the leg support sub-frame is
actuated into the knees-up position and the back support sub-frame
has been rotated relative to platform 19 to raise the back up so
that the head is above the knees. In both FIGS. 26 and 27, one of
the sides is shown up in the intermediate position with the other
in its lowermost position. The particular elevation of the bed as
well as the positioning of the sides depends in large part on the
mobility and age of the occupant.
Turning now to FIG. 30, the bed is shown in the same position as
that in FIG. 27 except that both sides are raised. This is
particularly desirable if the individual involved is young and/or
accidental falling is a consideration. In addition, it may be
desired to raise the sides even in those cases wherein it is
occupied by an older child when one of the objectives is to keep
the child from getting out of the bed.
FIG. 30 illustrates the bed in a knees-up sitting position. The leg
support sub-frame is raised to elevate the knees while the back is
raised essentially into a vertical orientation, this particular
position being very desirable for reading etc.
Although eight specific illustrations have been shown in FIG.
24-31, it will be appreciated that the flexibility and utilization
of this bed far exceeds these eight illustrations.
Referring now to FIG. 32, an alternative embodiment is shown
wherein a modified mattress frame 18a and support platform 19a are
shown. In this embodiment, instead of the mechanical
interconnection between frames 18 and 19 discussed previously,
support platform 19a is analagous to a pan in which Gatch frame 18a
is seated. Pan 19a includes peripheral sides 190 having a stepped
cross section to provide a lower floor 191 and a peripheral support
flange 192 spaced upwardly from floor 191. Frame 18a is adapted to
rest on flange 192 and is comprised of tubular construction
elements having an overall rectangular configuration capable of
resting flat on flange 192 when the frame is in a non-gatch
position. Frame 18a includes three subframe assemblies pivotally
attached to each adjacent sub-assembly. Sub-frame 194 provides the
leg supports; sub-frame 195 provides the thigh support; and
sub-frame 196 provides the back support. Each sub-frame is
pivotally interconnected to the adjacent subframe to provide
manipulation into the knees-up, back-up position. Thus, frame 194
is pivotally connected to frame 195 while frame 195 is pivotally
connected to frame 196 at 200. A pair of pivotal legs 201 extend
downwardly from each side of pivot 199 and a pair of similar legs
202 extend downwardly from pivot 200. A vertical groove 203 is
provided on each side of pan 19a from flange 192 to and slightly
below floor 191 to permit tongue and groove engagement between
grooves 203 and leg 201. Preferably, leg 201 includes a cross bar
204 at its lower margin which extends laterally across the floor of
pin 191 and rests in a laterally extending recess 205 when the leg
is in its lowermost position. The foot end 206 of frame 194 is
positionable in one or more keeper grooves 207 at the foot end of
pan 19a. When it is desired to maintain frames 194 and 195 in a
horizontal flat position, the foot end 206 is positioned in the
left or rearmost keeper 208 with leg 201 vertically oriented in
groove 203 and recess 205. If it is desired to raise the leg and
thigh support frames 194 and 195 into one or more Gatch (knees-up)
position, foot end 206 is positioned in one of the keeper grooves
207 pivotally raising frames 194 and 195 as shown in FIG. 32.
Regardless of the position of sub-frames 194 and 195 or for that
matter sub-frame 196, leg 202 is generally disposed in a groove and
recess 210 and 211 identical to leg 201. Leg 202 likewise includes
a cross bar 212 similar to cross bar 204 on leg 201. Leg 202
anchors mattress frame 18a so that the leg support sub-frames 194
and 195 can be manipulated into or out of the Gatch position.
With respect to the back support sub-frame 196, the head end
includes a pair of legs 215 extending downwardly between the side
elements of frame 196. The legs are spaced inwardly to clear the
side portions of flange 192 so that the bottom cross bar 216 of
legs 215 will rest in one of two detents 217 and 218 in the floor
191 of pan 19a. Legs 215 are also pivotable so that cross bar 216
rests in the lateral extending rear flange portion 219 of flange
192. As legs 215 are pivoted for placement in detent portions 217,
218 or 219, the slope of back rest 196 can be varied between the
position shown in FIG. 32 and the two positions shown in phantom.
If legs 215 are folded completely beneath sub-frame 196, the back
rest will be in a horizontal position with the cross bar at pivot
220 resting in indent portion 219 of flange 192. As a result of the
operation of the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 32, it will
be readily apparent that a variety of alternative modifications are
available in keeping with the overall concept of the inventions
described herein. Although not shown, these alternative embodiments
such as the one shown in FIG. 32 can be easily modified to include
Trendelenburg positioning as well as the cooperation with a
mattress such as the one described in detail.
Referring now to FIG. 33, an alternative modification is shown for
a support frame 14 and its enclosing sides 15 and end panel 16. In
its general overall concept, the bed illustrated in FIG. 33 is
identical to that described with regards to FIGS. 1-31 and hence
like numerals are used to designate like elements. With respect to
the modified elements, the suffix "a" will be utilized.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 33, end panels 16 include an
opening 230 covered by a detachable cap (not shown). Opening 230
permits the attachment of an oxygen hose 234 connected to an oxygen
supply mechanism 236 the details of which are conventional and
hence not described in detail. Thus, the bed envisioned by this
invention includes an adaptation for artifically controlling the
environment within support frame 14 or 14a. In order to more fully
enclose the confines of support frame 14a, sides 15a are shown
comprised of a clear plastic which is relatively thin. The sides
are comprised of a plurality of narrow plastic strips 235
interconnected by living hinges 237 to permit free and easy
movement along Tambour tracks 58a and 60a in accordance with my
previous disclosure. Although it is not necessary to hermetically
seal the internal portions of the bed, clear plastic sides 15a
greatly reduced the flow of air into and out of the bed. In
addition to this, bed 10a in FIG. 33 shows a removable top 240
comprised of a pair of cross bars 241 and 242 extending
longitudinally the distance between end panels 16a. Interconnected
between cross bars 241 and 242 and extending downwardly from each
side are a plurality of plastic sheets 243. Top piece 240 acts as a
roof to the bed fits snugly over and rests upon sides 15a. Although
the use of top 240 is optional, it does greatly reduce any flow of
air into and out of the crib or bed in those cases where the
patient must be totally dependent on an artifical environment. In
addition to the introduction of oxygen of course, it will be
appreciated that medicated vapors, etc., could also be introduced
through one of the end panels 15a. Although not shown, in
accordance with the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-32, it is
envisioned that a thin plastic sheet of polyethylene could be
draped over the bed to likewise provide an environment within the
bed capable of artificial support. Thus, oxygen could be supplied
to a bed utilizing the Vexar siding.
Referring now to the base assembly 11a of the embodiment shown in
FIG. 33, a pair of generally U-shaped frame elements 250 and 251
are shown extending from the mid portion of channel frame 21. One
of the frame portions 250 acts as a guard for motor 41 in that the
legs 252 and 253 extend from each side of motor 41. In addition to
protecting the motor however, frames 250 and 251 provide a means
for mounting trays on base frame 11a. One of these trays 255 is
shown mounted between leg 253 and cross bar 27. In the preferrred
embodiment, tray 255 includes an outwardly projecting flange 256
around its peripheral upper portion which flange rests on portions
of cross bar 27, channel frame member 21 and leg 253. Such trays
permit the storage of particular equipment necessary to service the
patient occupying the bed putting them in a close accessible
position and yet shielded from accidental bumping or moving.
Having described the various details and advantages provided by
this invention, and although several alternative forms have been
shown and described in detail, it will be obvious to those having
ordinary skill in this art that the details of construction of
these particular embodiments may be modified in a great many ways
without departing from the unique concepts presented. It is
therefore intended that the invention is limited only by the scope
of the appended claims rather than by particular details of
construction shown, except as specifically stated in the
claims.
* * * * *