Turning over person on bed

Abstract

A bed system attachable to a bed to turn over a person and a bed including such a bed system are disclosed. The bed system includes a first element and a second element. The first and second elements are hingedly attached along a first hinge axis, an upper surface of the first element extending perpendicular to the first hinge axis from a primary edge to a secondary edge of the first element. A lowered distance between the secondary edge of the first element and the lower surface of the second element is less than 8 cm when the first element is in the lowered rotational position relative to the second element, and wherein a raised distance between the secondary edge of the first element and the lower surface of the second element is at least 5 cm greater than the lowered distance when the first element is in the raised rotational position. The lower surface of the second element may be attached to the top surface of the bed frame of the bed, for example, to dispose the bed system between the bed frame and the mattress of the bed.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system that can be attached to a bed. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a bed system that can be mounted to a bed to facilitate repositioning of a person in the bed to reduce the likelihood of developing bedsores. Background Art

[0002] Elderly and disabled people who are bedridden for long periods of time are susceptible to bedsores. These people must be repositioned frequently to reduce the likelihood of developing bedsores. Currently, health and safety regulations dictate that two, sometimes three, people must usually be used to turn a bedridden person. This care is therefore extremely labor-intensive. Furthermore, it can be very stressful for the person turning the person. In addition, many disabled people find it very difficult or even impossible to adjust their sleeping position or to get up from a prone position, for example during the night without immediate help from others. Therefore, there is a need for an automated or semi-automated function for turning or repositioning a person in bed.

[0003] Some systems are known to assist in turning or repositioning a person in a bed. However, most of these systems form an integral part of the entire bed and are therefore an expensive method of providing such a system. It would therefore be desirable to provide a system that can be installed onto an existing bed. Furthermore, it would be desirable to provide a system that can be easily attached to a variety of different beds with no or minimal adjustment of the bed itself. Summary of the invention

[0004] The purpose of the present disclosure is to at least provide an improvement in the prior art and / or solve or reduce problems known in the prior art. In addition, through the present disclosure, a bed system is provided, which facilitates simple installation on an existing bed, limiting or avoiding the need to modify the existing bed. In addition, a bed having the bed system is disclosed.

[0005] Therefore, a bed system that can be attached to a bed to turn a person over is disclosed, for example to avoid pressure sores and / or to help a caregiver reposition the person. A bed including such a bed system is also disclosed. The bed includes a bed base having a top surface for supporting a mattress, and the bed system can be arranged between the bed base and the mattress. The bed can be a hospital bed or a nursing bed. The person can be a patient, such as a bedridden patient.

[0006] The bed system includes a first element and a second element. The first element has a substantially planar upper surface. The second element has a substantially planar lower surface.

[0007] The first element and the second element are hingedly attached along a first hinge axis. The upper surface of the first element extends perpendicularly to the first hinge axis from a major edge of the first element to an auxiliary edge. The lower surface of the second element may extend perpendicularly to the first hinge axis from a major edge of the second element to an auxiliary edge.

[0008] When the first element is in a lowered rotational position relative to the second element, the lowered distance between the secondary edge of the first element and the lower surface of the second element (such as the secondary edge of the second element) is less than 8 cm, for example less than 6 cm, for example less than 5 cm, for example less than 4 cm. When the first element is in an elevated rotational position, the elevated distance between the secondary edge of the first element and the lower surface of the second element (such as the secondary edge of the second element) is at least 5 cm more than the lowered distance, such as at least 8 cm more than the lowered distance, such as at least 10 cm more than the lowered distance, such as at least 15 cm more than the lowered distance, such as at least 20 cm more than the lowered distance.

[0009] The bed system further includes a first actuator attached to the first element and / or the second element. The first actuator has a first actuator rod, which can be extended and / or retracted perpendicular to the first hinge axis between a retracted actuator position and an extended actuator position. The first actuator rod extends and / or retracts in the space between the first element and the second element to achieve a change in the rotational position of the first element relative to the second element between a lowered rotational position and a raised rotational position. The first actuator can be arranged above the second element. The first actuator can be arranged between the first element and the second element.

[0010] The lower surface of the second element may be attached to the top surface of the bed frame of the bed, such as to arrange the bed system between the bed frame and the mattress of the bed. The lower surface of the second element may be attached to the top surface of the bed frame, such as by fasteners, such as straps or bands, bolts and nuts and / or screws (such as self-tapping screws or self-drilling screws), or other means for attachment known in the art. The lower surface of the second element may abut the top surface when attached to the top surface.

[0011] The inventors have discovered that, through the present disclosure, the need to modify any conventional bed to support a system for turning a person in the bed (e.g., to avoid pressure sores and / or to help a caregiver reposition the patient) is reduced. In addition, the present disclosure also provides a system that is more flexible, for example, due to the reduced necessity to change the bed, i.e., it can be used in combination with an increased range of different beds. In some examples, the bed system may not have a portion extending below the lower surface of the second element. In particular, the actuator (such as, the first actuator and / or the second actuator (to be described below)) may not have a portion extending below the lower surface of the second element. In other words, the actuator may be arranged above the second element.

[0012] The inventors have also discovered that it is important to observe the height of the side rails of the bed. To prevent unintentional patient falls, the height of the top edge of the side rails of a bed in a hospital environment, for example, should preferably be at least 220 mm above the mattress. Since the disclosed bed system will be placed between the bed frame and the mattress, it will reduce the distance between the top of the side rails and the top of the mattress. Therefore, in order to reduce the necessity of changing the height of the side rails to observe the height difference of 220 mm, the disclosed bed system should be relatively thin. In view of this and conventionally used mattresses, the inventors have discovered that the bed system in its lowered position should be less than 8 cm, more preferably less than 6 cm, more preferably less than 5 cm, and more preferably less than 4 cm. Therefore, in addition to the advantages already described, the present disclosure also provides a bed system that can be used with conventional mattresses, beds and / or side rails.

[0013] Thus, through the present disclosure, a bed system is disclosed that facilitates simple installation on existing beds, reducing or avoiding the need to modify existing beds. For example, through the present disclosure, the bed system can be directly attached to the top surface of the bed frame without having to remove bed slats or cut portions of the bed frame to make room to modify the bed system. Thus, all of the structural integrity of the bed is maintained, making installation easier, and the disclosed bed system can be used in conjunction with an increasing range of different beds.

[0014] It has further been discovered that an additional advantage of a thin bed system as disclosed herein is that a caregiver's working height is not significantly altered by installation of the disclosed system, thereby helping to maintain the ergonomic setup already achieved by the caregiver.

[0015] The bed system may include a third element. The third element may have a substantially flat upper surface.

[0016] The third element and the second element may be hingedly attached along a second hinge axis. The second hinge axis may be parallel to the first hinge axis. The upper surface of the third element may extend perpendicular to the second hinge axis, for example from a major edge to a minor edge of the third element. The first hinge axis and the second hinge axis may be close to each other. The distance between the first hinge axis and the second hinge axis can be smaller than the distance between the first hinge axis and the secondary edge of the second element (e.g., smaller than 1 / 2 of the distance between the first hinge axis and the secondary edge of the second element or smaller than 1 / 3 of the distance between the first hinge axis and the secondary edge of the second element), and / or smaller than the distance between the second hinge axis and the primary edge of the second element (e.g., smaller than 1 / 2 of the distance between the second hinge axis and the primary edge of the second element or smaller than 1 / 3 of the distance between the second hinge axis and the primary edge of the second element), and / or smaller than the distance between the first hinge axis and the secondary edge of the first element (e.g., smaller than 1 / 2 of the distance between the first hinge axis and the secondary edge of the first element or smaller than 1 / 3 of the distance between the first hinge axis and the secondary edge of the first element), and / or smaller than the distance between the second hinge axis and the secondary edge of the third element (e.g., smaller than 1 / 2 of the distance between the second hinge axis and the secondary edge of the third element or smaller than 1 / 3 of the distance between the second hinge axis and the secondary edge of the third element). The second hinge axis and the first hinge axis may be arranged in a middle portion of the second element. For example, the distance between the first hinge axis and the secondary edge of the second element may be the same or substantially the same as the distance between the second hinge axis and the primary edge of the second element.

[0017] Alternatively, the bed system may include a third element and a fourth element, and the third element and the fourth element may be hingedly attached along a second hinge axis. The second hinge axis may be parallel to the first hinge axis. The second hinge axis of this alternative may be the same as the second hinge axis described above, so the reference to the second hinge axis hereinafter applies to the second hinge axis of any of these alternatives. In addition, in this case, the upper surface of the third element may extend perpendicular to the second hinge axis, for example, from the main edge of the third element to the auxiliary edge. The fourth element may have a substantially flat lower surface. The lower surface of the fourth element may be attached to the top surface of the bed frame of the bed. The lower surface of the fourth element may be attached to the top surface of the bed frame, for example, by fasteners, such as straps or strips, bolts and nuts and / or screws (such as self-tapping screws or self-drilling screws) or other means for attachment known in the art, attached to the top surface of the bed frame. The lower surface of the second element may abut the top surface when attached to the top surface.

[0018] The lower surface of the fourth element may extend perpendicularly to the second hinge axis from a major edge of the fourth element to a minor edge. In some examples, the bed system may not have a portion extending below the lower surface of the fourth element. In particular, an actuator (such as a first actuator and / or a second actuator (described below)) may not have a portion extending below the lower surface of the fourth element. In other words, the actuator may be arranged above the fourth element.

[0019] Thus, in one example, the first element and the second element (optionally together with other components such as the first actuator) can form a first module, and the third element and the fourth element (optionally together with other components such as the second actuator) can form a second module, which can be substantially similar to the first module. In such an example, the first module can be arranged at a lateral side area of ​​the bed, such as between the center of the bed and the first lateral side, so as to rotate in one direction, and the second module can be arranged at the opposite lateral side area of ​​the bed, such as between the center of the bed and the second lateral side, so as to rotate in the opposite direction. When attaching the bed system to accommodate different body sizes, the separated first module and the second module can provide greater flexibility. Although separate modules, the first module and the second module can be interconnected by a spacer (e.g., an adjustable spacer) to ensure that the distance between the modules remains fixed when the bed system is used. Providing separate first and second modules can further simplify and reduce production costs because the first and second modules can be similar.

[0020] In another example, the second element can form a common base for both the first element and the third element, wherein the first element is attached to the second element to facilitate rotation in one direction and the third element is attached to the second element to facilitate rotation in the opposite direction. In this example, a module including the first element, the second element, and the third element can be attached at a laterally center position of the bed, wherein a secondary edge of the first element extends toward one lateral side of the bed and a secondary edge of the third element extends toward an opposite lateral side of the bed. The second element forming a common base for both the first element and the third element can facilitate easier attachment of the combined module to the bed (relative to two separate modules) and can ensure that the relative (e.g., predetermined) positioning of the first element and the third element is maintained when the bed system is in use.

[0021] In an example where the third element and the second element are hingedly attached along the second hinge axis: when the third element is in a lowered rotational position relative to the second element, the lowered distance between the secondary edge of the third element and the lower surface of the second element (such as the main edge of the second element) is less than 8 cm, such as less than 6 cm, such as less than 5 cm, such as less than 4 cm. When the third element is in a raised rotational position, the raised distance between the secondary edge of the third element and the lower surface of the second element (such as the main edge of the second element) is at least 5 cm more than the lowered distance, such as at least 8 cm more than the lowered distance, such as at least 10 cm more than the lowered distance, such as at least 15 cm more than the lowered distance, such as at least 20 cm more than the lowered distance. In this example, the first hinge axis and the second hinge axis may be arranged such that at least when the first element and the third element are in a lowered rotational position relative to the second element, the first hinge axis and the second hinge axis are located between the secondary edge of the first element and the secondary edge of the second element.

[0022] In another example where the third element and the fourth element are hingedly attached along the second hinge axis: when the third element is in a lowered rotational position relative to the fourth element, the lowered distance between the secondary edge of the third element and the lower surface of the fourth element (such as the secondary edge of the fourth element) is less than 8 cm, such as less than 6 cm, such as less than 5 cm, such as less than 4 cm. When the third element is in a raised rotational position, the raised distance between the secondary edge of the third element and the lower surface of the fourth element (such as the secondary edge of the fourth element) is at least 5 cm more than the lowered distance, such as at least 8 cm more than the lowered distance, such as at least 10 cm more than the lowered distance, such as at least 15 cm more than the lowered distance, such as at least 20 cm more than the lowered distance. In this example, the two modules are preferably arranged so that at least when the first element and the third element are in the lowered rotational position, the first hinge axis and the second hinge axis are located between the secondary edge of the first element and the secondary edge of the second element.

[0023] The bed system may include a second actuator. The second actuator may be attached to the third element and / or the second element. Alternatively, the second actuator may be attached to the third element and / or the fourth element. The second actuator may have a second actuator rod that is extendable and / or retractable perpendicular to the second hinge axis, for example, a second actuator rod that is extendable and / or retractable between a retracted actuator position and an extended actuator position. The second actuator rod may extend and / or retract in the space between the third element and the second element, for example, to achieve a change in the rotational position of the third element relative to the second element between a lowered rotational position and an elevated rotational position. In this example, the second actuator may be arranged above the second element and / or the second actuator may be arranged between the third element and the second element. Alternatively, the second actuator rod may extend and / or retract in the space between the third element and the fourth element to achieve a change in the rotational position of the third element relative to the fourth element between a lowered rotational position and an elevated rotational position. In this example, the second actuator may be arranged above the fourth element and / or the second actuator may be arranged between the third element and the fourth element.

[0024] The first hinge axis and the second hinge axis may be substantially parallel. The first actuating rod and the second actuating rod may extend and / or retract in substantially opposite directions. For example, the first actuating rod and the second actuating rod may extend toward each other. For example, the first actuator and the second actuator may be arranged in the same direction, for example, so that the first actuating rod and the second actuating rod extend and / or retract in substantially the same direction. The first actuator and the second actuator may be arranged side by side, for example, so that the first actuating rod and the second actuating rod extend and / or retract in substantially parallel offset directions.

[0025] Preferably, the change of the rotational position of the first element relative to the second element between the lowered rotational position and the raised rotational position is achieved in a single stage. Similarly, the change of the rotational position of the third element relative to the second element or the fourth element between the lowered rotational position and the raised rotational position is preferably achieved in a single stage. The term "single stage" means that the same mechanical interaction between the actuator and the corresponding element causes the change of the rotational position during the entire rotation between the lowered rotational position and the raised rotational position. Therefore, "single stage" means avoiding the transition between one lifting method and the second lifting method. Thereby, a simpler mechanism can be achieved.

[0026] The first element may have one or more first wedge-shaped structures facing the second element. The one or more first wedge-shaped structures may be positioned to engage with the first actuating rod, for example, so that extension or retraction of the first actuating rod causes engagement with the one or more first wedge-shaped structures and a relatively arranged portion of the second element (e.g., one or more second wedge-shaped structures), thereby resulting in an increase in the angle between the first element and the second element and / or an increase in the distance between the auxiliary edge of the first element and the lower surface of the second element. In some examples, the distal end of the first actuating rod may cause engagement with the one or more first wedge-shaped structures. The engagement of the first actuating rod with the one or more first wedge-shaped structures may cause the rotational position of the first element relative to the second element to change from a lowered rotational position to an elevated rotational position.

[0027] The first actuating rod may be T-shaped. For example, the first actuator may have a longitudinal rod portion extending along the extension and / or retraction direction of the first actuating rod and a transverse rod portion at the distal end of the longitudinal rod portion. The one or more first wedge-shaped structures may be a plurality of first wedge-shaped structures. The one or more first wedge-shaped structures may include a first main wedge-shaped structure and a first auxiliary wedge-shaped structure arranged on opposite sides of the longitudinal rod portion of the first actuating rod. The one or more first wedge-shaped structures may engage with the transverse rod portion of the first actuating rod.

[0028] One or more first wedge-shaped structures may each include an engagement surface facing the second element. The engagement surface may form an engagement angle relative to the upper surface of the first element. The engagement angle of the engagement surface relative to the upper surface of the first element may, for example, gradually change from the initial engagement surface position toward the first hinge axis, such as decreasing. The initial engagement surface position may be the portion where the engagement surface engages with the first actuating rod when the first element is in a lowered rotational position. The engagement surface may be bent relative to the upper surface of the first element along the extension and / or retraction direction of the first actuating rod. In some examples, at the intermediate engagement surface position, the engagement angle is zero, that is, the engagement surface is parallel to the upper surface of the first element. The intermediate engagement surface position may be between the initial engagement surface position and the final engagement surface position. The final engagement surface position may be closer to the first hinge axis than the initial engagement surface position. For example, the engagement angle between the initial engagement surface position and the intermediate engagement surface position and / or between the intermediate engagement surface position and the final engagement surface position may have a size less than 45 degrees, such as a size less than 35 degrees, such as a size less than 30 degrees. The engagement angle between the initial engagement surface position and the intermediate engagement surface position may be opposite to the engagement angle between the intermediate engagement surface position and the final engagement surface position.

[0029] The third element may have one or more third wedge-shaped structures facing the second element or the fourth element. One or more third wedge-shaped structures may be positioned to engage with the second actuating rod, for example, so that the extension or retraction of the second actuating rod causes engagement with one or more third wedge-shaped structures and the relatively arranged parts of the second element or the fourth element (for example, one or more second wedge-shaped structures or the fourth wedge-shaped structures), thereby causing an increase in the angle between the third element and the second element or the fourth element and / or an increase in the distance between the auxiliary edge of the third element and the lower surface of the second element or the fourth element. In some examples, the distal end of the second actuating rod may cause engagement with one or more third wedge-shaped structures. The engagement of the second actuating rod with one or more third wedge-shaped structures may cause the rotational position of the third element relative to the second element or the fourth element to change from a lowered rotational position to an elevated rotational position.

[0030] The second actuating rod may be T-shaped. For example, the second actuator may have a longitudinal rod portion extending along the extension and / or retraction direction of the second actuating rod and a transverse rod portion at the distal end of the longitudinal rod portion. The one or more third wedge-shaped structures may be a plurality of third wedge-shaped structures. The one or more third wedge-shaped structures may include a third main wedge-shaped structure and a third auxiliary wedge-shaped structure arranged on opposite sides of the longitudinal rod portion of the second actuating rod. The one or more third wedge-shaped structures may engage with the transverse rod portion of the second actuating rod.

[0031] One or more third wedge-shaped structures may each include an engagement surface facing the second element or the fourth element. The engagement surface may form an engagement angle relative to the upper surface of the third element. The engagement angle of the engagement surface relative to the upper surface of the third element may, for example, gradually change from the initial engagement surface position toward the second hinge axis, such as decreasing. The initial engagement surface position may be a portion of the engagement surface that engages with the second actuating rod when the third element is in a lowered rotational position. The engagement surface may be bent relative to the upper surface of the third element along the extension and / or retraction direction of the second actuating rod. In some examples, at the intermediate engagement surface position, the engagement angle is zero, that is, the engagement surface is parallel to the upper surface of the first element. The intermediate engagement surface position may be between the initial engagement surface position and the final engagement surface position. The final engagement surface position may be closer to the second hinge axis than the initial engagement surface position. For example, the engagement angle between the initial engagement surface position and the intermediate engagement surface position and / or between the intermediate engagement surface position and the final engagement surface position may have a size less than 45 degrees, such as a size less than 35 degrees, such as a size less than 30 degrees. The engagement angle between the initial engagement surface position and the intermediate engagement surface position may be opposite to the engagement angle between the intermediate engagement surface position and the final engagement surface position.

[0032] The first actuating rod may not be connected (e.g., not fastened) to the first element. Alternatively or in addition, the first actuating rod may not be connected (e.g., not fastened) to the second element. Similarly or alternatively, the second actuating rod may not be connected (e.g., not fastened) to the third element. Alternatively or in addition, the second actuating rod may not be connected (e.g., not fastened) to the second element or the fourth element. Therefore, a rigid connection between the actuating rod and the corresponding element can be avoided. Therefore, if necessary, for example, if the maintenance system, the element can be more easily manually displaced. In addition, the non-coupling between the actuating rod and its corresponding element can reduce the risk of pinching.

[0033] The first element and / or the second element and / or the third element and / or the fourth element may include an opening that allows at least a portion of an actuator (such as the first actuator or the second actuator) to protrude through the opening. For example, the first element may include an opening that allows at least a portion of the first actuator or the second actuator to protrude through the opening. The second element may include an opening that allows at least a portion of the first actuator or the second actuator to protrude through the opening. The third element may include an opening that allows at least a portion of the first actuator or the second actuator to protrude through the opening. The fourth element may include an opening that allows at least a portion of the first actuator or the second actuator to protrude through the opening. In an example, the first element includes a first opening that allows at least a portion of the second actuator to protrude through the first opening, and optionally, the third element may include a third opening that allows at least a portion of the first actuator to protrude through the third opening. The second element may include a main second opening that allows at least a portion of the first actuator to protrude through the main second opening and an auxiliary second opening that allows at least a portion of the second actuator to protrude through the auxiliary second opening. Providing one or more of the elements with openings through which at least part of one or more actuators protrude may facilitate the bed system being as thin as possible in the lowered position, as the actuators may be the most space-intensive components.

[0034] In the above two examples, the bed system can be attached to the bed so that the hinge axis is located near the transverse center of the bed, and wherein the auxiliary edge of the first element is arranged toward one transverse side of the bed, and the auxiliary edge of the third element is arranged toward another opposite transverse side of the bed. This arrangement facilitates the turning of a person, while also facilitating the first element and the third element to work in unison to provide the possibility of a gentler and more controlled turning of a person. For example, if a person is turned over from the transverse region where the first element is located, both the first element and the third element can be partially raised, and then the first element can be further raised while the third element is lowered, so that the partially raised third element acts as a stopper for the person being turned over to avoid uncontrolled tumbling of the person. The turning of a person, i.e., by raising and lowering the first element and the optional third element, can be controlled by a control unit (e.g., including a processing unit and an electronic memory). The control unit can be connected (e.g., wired) to the first actuator and / or the second actuator. For example, a first cable can connect the control unit to the first actuator and / or a second cable can connect the control unit to the second actuator. The control unit may be adapted to control the extension and / or retraction of the first actuator and / or the second actuator. The control unit may be adapted to control the extension and / or retraction of the first actuator independently of the extension and / or retraction of the second actuator. The bed system and the control unit may form a bed system assembly. The bed system assembly may further include a first cable and / or a second cable. The control unit may be operated by manual input, for example via a user interface of the control unit. Alternatively or in addition, the control unit may be programmed to automatically raise and / or lower the first element and the optional third element, for example by controlling the extension and / or retraction of the first actuator and / or the second actuator according to stored instructions. Therefore, the electronic memory of the control unit may store these instructions. The stored instructions may further include instructions to raise and / or lower the first element and the optional third element, for example by controlling the extension and / or retraction of the first actuator and / or the second actuator according to a time-based value to raise and / or lower the first element and the optional third element. For example, the system may be configured to turn the person on the bed every 2 hours or every 3 hours.

[0035] It may be desirable that only the raising of the first element and / or the third element is provided as an active process, while the lowering of the elements may be provided as a passive process, such as to avoid or reduce the risk of pinching. The first actuator may be configured to actively extend the first actuation rod from the retracted actuator position to the extended actuator position, and the first actuator may be configured to release the first actuation rod, such as to allow the first actuation rod to be retracted from the extended actuator position to the retracted actuator position by an applied force (e.g., a force applied to the first element and / or the second element). Similarly, the second actuator may be configured to actively extend the second actuation rod from the retracted actuator position to the extended actuator position, and the second actuator may be configured to release the second actuation rod, such as to allow the second actuation rod to be retracted from the extended actuator position to the retracted actuator position by an applied force (e.g., a force applied to the third element and / or the second element or the fourth element). Alternatively, the first actuator may be configured to actively retract the first actuator rod from the extended actuator position to the retracted actuator position, and the first actuator may be configured to release the first actuator rod, for example to allow the first actuator rod to extend from the retracted actuator position to the extended actuator position by an applied force (e.g., a force applied to the first element and / or the second element). Similarly, the second actuator may be configured to actively retract the second actuator rod from the extended actuator position to the retracted actuator position, and the second actuator may be configured to release the second actuator rod, for example to allow the second actuator rod to extend from the retracted actuator position to the extended actuator position by an applied force (e.g., a force applied to the third element and / or the second element or the fourth element).

[0036] Each of the first element and / or the third element may extend from the head side end to the foot side end along the first hinge axis and / or the second hinge axis. The bed system may include a first main extension element flexibly attached to the head side end of the first element. The first main extension element may have a substantially flat upper surface. The bed system may include a first auxiliary extension element flexibly attached to the foot side end of the first element. The first auxiliary extension element may have a substantially flat upper surface. The bed system may include a third main extension element flexibly attached to the head side end of the third element. The third main extension element may have a substantially flat upper surface. The bed system may include a third auxiliary extension element flexibly attached to the foot side end of the third element. The third auxiliary extension element may have a substantially flat upper surface. The flexible attachment between the extension element and the first element and / or the third element may allow the extension element to rotate and / or tilt relative to the first element and / or the third element, which enhances the comfort of the person being turned over, while still providing a turning action provided along the longer length of the person. Additionally, the flexible attachment between the extension element and the first element and / or the third element may allow any elevate functionality of the bed to be utilized when the disclosed bed system is installed.

[0037] It should be understood that the elements and extension elements mentioned above and described as having "substantially flat" surfaces may in some embodiments be in the form of appropriately shaped flat plates. It should also be understood that such elements and extension elements may have one or more openings, recesses or carvings, as long as such openings, recesses, recesses or carvings are not contrary to the function of the elements and extension elements. In particular, the second element and the fourth element (if present) preferably have appropriate openings, such as holes and slots or bends, for attaching the respective elements to the top surface of the bed, and for mounting actuators, wedges or other structures to the elements, and for providing a hinge function through the first element and the third element.

[0038] The first element may have a distance between the first hinge axis and the auxiliary edge. The distance between the first hinge axis and the auxiliary edge of the first element may be greater than 250mm, for example greater than 275mm, for example greater than 300mm. The upper surface of the first element may be formed by a first plate element. The thickness of the first plate element may be between 0.1mm and 10mm, for example between 0.1mm and 5mm, for example between 0.1mm and 4mm. In some examples, the first plate element may have a thickness greater than 1mm, for example between 1mm and 10mm, for example between 1mm and 5mm, for example between 1mm and 4mm. In some examples, the first plate element may have a thickness greater than 2mm, for example between 2mm and 10mm, for example between 2mm and 5mm, for example between 2mm and 4mm. In some examples, the first plate element may have a thickness greater than 3mm, for example between 3mm and 10mm, for example between 3mm and 5mm, for example between 3mm and 4mm.

[0039] The third element may have a distance between the second hinge axis and the auxiliary edge. The distance between the second hinge axis and the auxiliary edge of the third element may be greater than 250mm, for example greater than 275mm, for example greater than 300mm. The upper surface of the third element may be formed by a third plate element. The thickness of the third plate element may be between 0.1mm and 10mm, for example between 0.1mm and 5mm, for example between 0.1mm and 4mm. In some examples, the third plate element may have a thickness greater than 1mm, for example between 1mm and 10mm, for example between 1mm and 5mm, for example between 1mm and 4mm. In some examples, the third plate element may have a thickness greater than 2mm, for example between 2mm and 10mm, for example between 2mm and 5mm, for example between 2mm and 4mm. In some examples, the third plate element may have a thickness greater than 3mm, for example between 3mm and 10mm, for example between 3mm and 5mm, for example between 3mm and 4mm.

[0040] The disclosed bed may include the disclosed bed system. For example, the second element and the optional fourth element (if present) may be attached to the top surface of the bed, such that the bed system is arranged between the bed frame and the mattress. The top surface of the bed may be formed by the slats of the bed frame. Thus, the lower surface of the second element and / or the fourth element may be attached to the slats of the bed frame.

[0041] The second element and the optional fourth element (if present) may be attached to the top surface at a position corresponding to the person's buttocks. The bed may have a bed length from the head end to the foot end. The second element and / or the fourth element may be attached to the top surface at a position between 30% and 70% (e.g., between 40% and 70%) of the bed length from the head end. For example, the head side end of the second element and / or the fourth element may be spaced from the head end of the bed by between 30% and 50% of the bed length, e.g., between 35% and 45% of the bed length, e.g., between 40% and 45% of the bed length. The second element and the optional fourth element (if present) may be attached to a portion of the top surface that is fixed, i.e., immovable as part of the lifting function of the bed.

[0042] In an example, a first module of the bed system (e.g., including a first element, a second element, and a first actuator) can be attached to one lateral side area of ​​the top surface of the bed (e.g., between the center and the first lateral side, such as the right side area), and a second module of the bed system (e.g., including a third element, a fourth element, and a second actuator) can be attached to another lateral side area of ​​the top surface of the bed (e.g., between the center and the second lateral side, such as the left side area). In another example, for example, where the second element forms a common base for both the first element and the third element, the bed system can be attached to the center of the top surface of the bed.

[0043] The upper surface of the first element and / or the upper surface of the third element may be coated. Coating of the upper surface may be provided to control friction between the upper surface and the mattress. In addition, coating the upper surface may extend the durability of the bed system. Coating may also have other advantages, such as being easier to clean and / or having an anti-pathogenic effect.

[0044] Typically, at least when the corresponding first element and / or third element is in the lowered position, the upper surface referred to herein (e.g., the upper surface of the first element and / or the upper surface of the third element) can be opposite to the lower surface referred to herein (e.g., the lower surface of the second element and / or the lower surface of the fourth element). In other words, when the bed system is arranged on the bed, the upper surface is intended to face the mattress and the lower surface is intended to face the bed frame. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate one way of implementing the present disclosure and should not be interpreted as limiting other possible embodiments falling within the scope of the attached claim set.

[0046] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary bed and a person on the bed,

[0047] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary bed including a bed system or a portion thereof,

[0048] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary bed system or a portion thereof,

[0049] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary bed system or a portion thereof, and

[0050] Figure 5 a and Figure 5 b schematically illustrates an exemplary shape of a wedge-shaped structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Various exemplary embodiments and details are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings when relevant. It should be noted that these drawings may be drawn to scale, or may not be drawn to scale, and elements of similar structure or function are represented by the same reference numerals in all drawings. It should also be noted that the drawings are intended only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended to serve as an exhaustive description of the invention or as a limitation on the scope of the invention. In addition, the illustrated embodiments do not need to have all aspects or advantages shown. The aspects or advantages described in conjunction with a specific embodiment are not necessarily limited to that embodiment, and even if not so illustrated, or if not so explicitly described, may also be practiced in any other embodiment.

[0052] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary bed 2 and a person 20 on the bed 2. The bed 2 may be a hospital bed and / or the person 20 may be a patient. For example, the person 20 may be a bedridden patient. The bed extends from a head end 10 to a foot end 12. The bed 2 includes a bed frame 4 having a top surface 6 for supporting a mattress 8. The bed 2 further includes a bed system 100, 100' for turning the person 20 over to avoid pressure sores and / or to help a caregiver reposition the person 20. The bed system 100 is arranged between the bed frame 4 and the mattress 8 and is attached to the bed frame 4, for example, to the top surface 6 of the bed frame 4.

[0053] Figure 2is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary bed 2 without a mattress. In the illustrated example, a bed system 100 or at least a portion of a bed system 100 is shown, wherein the bed system is attached to a bed frame 4, which in the illustrated example is formed by slats 14 to which the bed system can be attached. The illustrated example shows a bed system 100 that includes a first element 110 and a second element 120 that are hingedly attached, such as to allow rotational repositioning of the first element 110 relative to the second element 120 to enable a person to turn over. More specifically, the first element 110 includes a substantially flat upper surface 111 that is used to enable a person to turn over when the first element 110 is rotationally repositioned relative to the second element 120.

[0054] The second element 120 is attached to the bed frame 4 and / or the top surface 6 at a position corresponding to the person's hips.

[0055] The illustrated bed system 100 or a portion of the bed system 100 further includes a first main extension element 170 and a first auxiliary extension element 172. The first main extension element 170 is flexibly attached to the head side end of the first element 110. The first auxiliary extension element 172 is flexibly attached to the foot side end of the first element 110. The first main extension element 170 and the first auxiliary extension element 172 each have a substantially flat upper surface 171, 173. When the first element 110 is rotationally repositioned relative to the second element 120, the upper surfaces 171, 173 of the first main extension element 170 and the first auxiliary extension element 172 help to turn a person over.

[0056] In the illustrated example, the bed system 100 includes a first module 101A, which includes the features described above. In addition, as illustrated, the bed system may include a second module 101B, which includes similar features as described above. As illustrated, the first module 101A and the second module 101B can be arranged on opposite sides of the bed 2, for example, to facilitate rotation in opposite directions. Alternatively, as will be further explained below, the bed system can be implemented by a solution that integrates both sides in one module.

[0057] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary bed system 100 or a portion of an exemplary bed system 100. More specifically, Figure 3 Module 101 of bed system 100 is illustrated, such as Figure 2 The first module 101A and / or the second module 101B of the exemplary bed system 100 (such as the exemplary module 101) can be attached to a bed, such as Figure 2 As illustrated, attachment to the bed is accomplished, for example, by fasteners such as straps or bands, bolts and nuts and / or screws such as self-tapping or self-drilling screws, or other means for attachment known in the art.

[0058] The bed system 100 (e.g., exemplary module 101) includes a first element 110 and a second element 120. The first element 110 has a substantially flat upper surface 111. The second element 120 has a substantially flat lower surface 121. The lower surface 121 of the second element 120 can be attached to the top surface of a bed frame of a bed, for example, by fasteners, such as straps or bands, bolts and nuts, and / or screws (such as self-tapping screws or self-drilling screws), or other means for attachment known in the art, for example, to arrange the bed system 100 between the bed frame and the mattress of the bed, such as Figure 1 It should be understood that the bed system is a device that is separate from the bed and can be removably attached to the top surface of the bed frame to allow the bed system to be later removed and repositioned on the top surface of the bed frame to accommodate different body shapes or sizes, and / or to facilitate removal of the bed system from one bed and installation on another (e.g., a new) bed.

[0059] The first element 110 and the second element 120 are hingedly attached along a first hinge axis 138. An upper surface 111 of the first element 110 extends perpendicularly to the first hinge axis 138 from a major edge 112 to a minor edge 113 of the first element.

[0060] When the first element 110 is in a lowered rotational position relative to the second element 120, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown in Fig. 1, the lowered distance between the secondary edge 113 of the first element 110 and the lower surface 121 of the second element 120 is less than 8 cm, such as less than 6 cm, such as less than 5 cm, such as less than 4 cm. Therefore, the bed system 100 can be assembled between the existing bed frame and the mattress of the bed, reducing or eliminating the need to change the height of the bed rails, while providing the possibility of assembling the bed system to the bed, reducing the need to change the bed frame, because the part extending below the lower surface 121 is omitted or at least reduced.

[0061] When the first element 110 is in a raised rotational position relative to the second element 120, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 2 , the elevation distance between the auxiliary edge 113 of the first element 110 and the lower surface 121 of the second element 120 is greater than the lowering distance. Figure 310, for example, at least 5 cm more than the lowered distance, for example, at least 8 cm more than the lowered distance, for example, at least 10 cm, 15 cm, or 20 cm more than the lowered distance. In some cases, such as when turning a person over during sleep, the first element 110 can be raised below the maximum raised position during turning, and when the bed system 100 (such as the exemplary module 101 of the bed system 100) is used during the repositioning of the person, the maximum raised position can be used. In some examples, the maximum raised position (e.g., where the angle between the first element 110 and the second element 120 is higher than 70 degrees) can correspond to a raised distance between 34 cm and 38 cm between the auxiliary edge 113 of the first element and the lower surface 121 of the second element 120 (e.g., about 30 cm more than the lowered distance). When the first element 110 is raised, the angle between the first element 110 and the second element 120 increases. For example, an angle of 10 degrees can result in a raised distance of between 10 cm and 14 cm (e.g., approximately 6 cm more than the lowered distance), an angle of 40 degrees can result in a raised distance of between 25 cm and 29 cm (e.g., approximately 21 cm more than the lowered distance), and an angle of 70 degrees can result in a raised distance of between 33 cm and 37 cm (e.g., approximately 29 cm more than the lowered distance).

[0062] The bed system 100, such as the exemplary module 101 of the bed system 100, includes a first actuator 130 attached to a second element 120. Alternatively, the first actuator 130 can be attached to the first element 110. In yet another alternative, the first actuator 130 can be attached to both the first element 110 and the second element 120, such as at a connection between the first element 110 and the second element 120, and act in opposition, such as pulling rather than pushing.

[0063] The first actuator 130 has a first actuating rod 132, which can be perpendicular to the first hinge axis 138 at a position such as Figure 3 The retract actuator position illustrated in a is similar to that shown in FIG. Figure 3 b. The first actuator rod extends and / or retracts in the space between the first element 110 and the second element 120 to achieve a change in the rotational position of the first element 110 relative to the second element 120, such as between a lowered rotational position and an elevated rotational position, and / or any position therebetween.

[0064] The first element 110 has a first wedge-shaped structure 116 facing the second element. In the illustrated example, the first element 110 has two first wedge-shaped structures (e.g., represented as a first main wedge-shaped structure and a first auxiliary wedge-shaped structure). However, in other examples, the first element 110 may include only one or more first wedge-shaped structures. As illustrated, the first wedge-shaped structure 116 is positioned to engage with the first actuating rod 132, so that extension of the first actuating rod 132 causes engagement with the first wedge-shaped structure 116, such as engagement with the engagement surface 117 of the first wedge-shaped structure 116, and engagement with an oppositely arranged portion of the second element 120 (such as the second wedge-shaped structure 126 of the second element 120). The engagement between the first actuating rod 132 and the first wedge-shaped structure 116 and / or the second wedge-shaped structure 126 causes the angle between the first element 110 and the second element 120 to increase, and thereby causes the distance between the auxiliary edge 113 of the first element 110 and the lower surface 121 of the second element 120 to increase.

[0065] The first actuation rod 132 is T-shaped. The first actuation rod 132 has a longitudinal rod portion 134 extending in the extension and / or retraction direction of the first actuation rod 132. The first actuation rod 132 has a transverse rod portion 136 at the distal end of the longitudinal rod portion 134. The first wedge-shaped structure 116 is arranged on the opposite side of the longitudinal rod portion 134. The second wedge-shaped structure 126 is also arranged on the opposite side of the longitudinal rod portion 134. The first wedge-shaped structure 116 and the second wedge-shaped structure 126 are engaged with the transverse rod portion 136 of the first actuation rod 132. Some exemplary shapes of the wedge-shaped structures 116, 126 are shown in FIG. Figure 5 The engagement angle of the engagement surface 117 relative to the upper surface of the first element may gradually decrease toward the first hinge axis 138. The engagement angle of the engagement surface 127 relative to the lower surface of the second element may gradually decrease toward the first hinge axis 138.

[0066] The first wedge-shaped structure 116 and the second wedge-shaped structure 126 are offset in a direction parallel to the hinge axis to allow the bed system 100 to be as thin as possible when in the lowered position.

[0067] As illustrated, the first element 110 includes an opening 118 and / or a plurality of openings to allow at least a portion of the first actuator 130 to protrude through the opening, for example to allow the bed system 100 to be as thin as possible when in the lowered position. Although not specifically illustrated, the second element 120 may also or alternatively include one or more openings to allow at least a portion of the first actuator 130 to protrude through.

[0068] In the illustrated example, the bed system 100 is configured such that raising the first element 110 is achieved by a pushing action of the first actuator 130. However, as also described above, the bed system can be configured such that raising of the first element 110 is achieved by a pulling action of the first actuator 130. It may be further desirable to provide only raising of the first element 110 as an active process, while lowering may be a passive process, for example to avoid or reduce the risk of pinching. Therefore, in the illustrated example, the first actuator 130 can be configured to actively extend the first actuator rod 132 from the retracted actuator position to the extended actuator position, while being configured to release the first actuator rod 132, for example to allow the first actuator rod 132 to be retracted from the extended actuator position to the retracted actuator position by a force applied to the first element 110 (e.g., caused by the weight of a user).

[0069] Likewise Figure 2 As illustrated, the bed system 100 may include both a first module 101A and a second module 101B, similar to Figure 3 The illustrated modules 101, the first module 101A and the second module 101B can be attached to opposite sides of the bed 2, such as Figure 2 As shown, for example, to facilitate turning a person over in the opposite direction. Figure 3 In addition to the illustrated module 101, the bed system 100 may also include a second module, which includes a third element similar to the first element 110 and a fourth element similar to the second element 120, which are hingedly attached along a second hinge axis, and includes a second actuator attached to the third element and / or the fourth element. The two modules and / or the first actuator and the second actuator can be arranged so that the first actuator rod and the second actuator rod extend and / or retract in substantially opposite directions, for example, toward each other. For example, the first actuator and the second actuator can be arranged in the same direction, for example, so that the first actuator rod and the second actuator rod extend and / or retract in substantially the same direction.

[0070] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary bed system 100'. The exemplary bed system 100' may be attached to Figure 2 A bed similar to that illustrated in FIG. 1 is attached to a device such as a computer, for example, by fasteners such as straps or bands, bolts and nuts and / or screws (such as self-tapping screws or self-drilling screws), or other means for attachment known in the art. Figure 2 A bed similarly illustrated in FIG.

[0071] Similar to Figure 2 and Figure 3The illustrated bed system 100, bed system 100' includes a first element 110 and a second element 120. The first element 110 has a substantially flat upper surface 111. The second element 120 has a substantially flat lower surface 121. The lower surface 121 of the second element 120 can be attached to the top surface of a bed frame of a bed, for example, by fasteners, such as straps or bands, bolts and nuts and / or screws (such as self-tapping screws or self-drilling screws), or other means for attachment known in the art, such as by arranging the bed system 100' between the bed frame and a mattress of the bed, such as by fasteners, such as straps or bands, bolts and nuts and / or screws (such as self-tapping screws or self-drilling screws), or other means for attachment known in the art. Figure 1 exemplified.

[0072] The first element 110 and the second element 120 are hingedly attached along a first hinge axis 138. An upper surface 111 of the first element 110 extends perpendicularly to the first hinge axis 138 from a major edge 112 to a minor edge 113 of the first element 110.

[0073] In addition, the bed system 100' comprises a third element 140. The third element 140 has a substantially flat upper surface 141. The third element 140 and the second element 120 are hingedly attached along a second hinge axis 168, which is preferably parallel to the first hinge axis 138. The upper surface 141 of the third element 140 extends perpendicularly to the second hinge axis 168 from a major edge 142 of the third element 140 to a minor edge 143.

[0074] exist Figure 4 b, the first element 110 and the third element 140 are relative to Figure 4 a is removed (although the wedge-shaped structure of elements 110, 140 is maintained) to enable viewing of otherwise hidden elements. Figure 4 In a, the first element 110 is shown in a raised position and the third element 140 is shown in a lowered position. Figure 4 In b, the components are arranged to correspond to the first element being in a lowered position and the third element being in a raised position.

[0075] The bed system 100' includes a first actuator 130 and a second actuator 160 attached to a second element 120. The first actuator is used to raise and / or lower the first element 110. The second actuator is used to raise and / or lower the third element 140.

[0076] The first actuator 130 has a first actuating rod 132, which can be extended and / or retracted perpendicularly to the first hinge axis 138 between a retracted actuator position and an extended actuator position. The second actuator 160 has a second actuating rod 162, which can be extended and / or retracted perpendicularly to the second hinge axis 168 between a retracted actuator position and an extended actuator position. The first actuating rod 132 extends and / or retracts in the space between the first element 110 and the second element 120 to achieve a change in the rotational position of the first element 110 relative to the second element 120, such as a change between a lowered rotational position and an elevated rotational position and / or any position therebetween. The second actuating rod 162 extends and / or retracts in the space between the third element 140 and the second element 120 to achieve a change in the rotational position of the third element 140 relative to the second element 120, such as a change between a lowered rotational position and an elevated rotational position and / or any position therebetween.

[0077] When the first element 110 is in a lowered rotational position relative to the second element 120, the lowered distance between the secondary edge 113 of the first element 110 and the lower surface 121 of the second element 120 is less than 8 cm, such as less than 6 cm, such as less than 5 cm, such as less than 4 cm. When the third element 140 is in a lowered rotational position relative to the second element 120, the lowered distance between the secondary edge 143 of the third element 140 and the lower surface 121 of the second element 120 is less than 8 cm, such as less than 6 cm, such as less than 5 cm, such as less than 4 cm. Therefore, the bed system 100' can be assembled between the existing bed frame and mattress of the bed, reducing the need to change the height of the bed rails, while providing the possibility of assembling the bed system 100' to the bed, reducing the need to change the bed frame, because the part extending below the lower surface 121 is omitted or at least reduced.

[0078] When in the raised rotational position, the raised distance between the auxiliary edges 113, 143 of the first element 110 and / or the third element 140 and the lower surface 121 of the second element 120 is greater than the corresponding lowered distance, for example, at least 5 cm more than the lowered distance, for example, at least 8 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm or 20 cm more than the lowered distance. In some cases, such as when turning a person during sleep, the first element 110 and / or the third element 140 can be raised to below the maximum raised position during turning, and the maximum raised position can be used when the system 100' is used during the repositioning of the person. In some examples, the maximum raised position (e.g., where the angle between the first element 110 and / or the third element 140 and the second element 120 is higher than 70 degrees) can correspond to a raised distance between 34 cm and 38 cm (e.g., about 30 cm more than the lowered distance). When the corresponding first element 110 and / or the third element 140 is raised, the angle between the first element 110 and / or the third element 140 and the second element 120 increases. For example, an angle of 10 degrees can result in a raised distance of between 10 cm and 14 cm (e.g., approximately 6 cm more than the lowered distance), an angle of 40 degrees can result in a raised distance of between 25 cm and 29 cm (e.g., approximately 21 cm more than the lowered distance), and an angle of 70 degrees can result in a raised distance of between 33 cm and 37 cm (e.g., approximately 29 cm more than the lowered distance).

[0079] The first actuator 160 and the second actuator 130 can be arranged so that the first actuation rod 132 and the second actuation rod 162 extend and / or retract in substantially opposite directions. As illustrated, the first actuator 130 and the second actuator 160 can be arranged side by side, for example, so that the first actuation rod 132 and the second actuation rod 162 extend and / or retract along substantially parallel offset directions.

[0080] The first element 110, the third element 140, and the optional second element 120 (although not illustrated in the example) may include corresponding wedge-shaped structures. For example, as illustrated, the first element 110 may include a first wedge-shaped structure 116 facing the second element 120. The third element 140 may include a third wedge-shaped structure 146 facing the second element 120. In the illustrated example, the first element 110 has two first wedge-shaped structures (e.g., represented as a first main wedge-shaped structure and a first auxiliary wedge-shaped structure), and the third element 130 has two third wedge-shaped structures (e.g., represented as a third main wedge-shaped structure and a third auxiliary wedge-shaped structure). However, in other examples, the first element 110, the second element 120, and / or the third element 140 may include only one wedge-shaped structure or more wedge-shaped structures.

[0081] The first wedge structure 116 is positioned to engage the first actuation rod 132 such that retraction of the first actuation rod 132 causes engagement with the first wedge structure 116, such as engagement surface 117 of the first wedge structure 116 and an oppositely disposed portion of the second element 120. The third wedge structure 146 is positioned to engage the second actuation rod 162 such that retraction of the second actuation rod 162 causes engagement with the third wedge structure 146, such as engagement surface 147 of the third wedge structure 146 and an oppositely disposed portion of the second element 120. In the present example, the oppositely disposed portion of the second element 120 relative to the first wedge structure 116 and the third wedge structure is only an area of ​​the upper surface of the second element 120. However, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As illustrated, a second wedge-shaped structure may alternatively be provided in these regions.

[0082] The engagement between the first actuating rod 132 and the first wedge-shaped structure 116 and the engagement between the second actuating rod 162 and the third wedge-shaped structure 146 respectively result in an increase in the angle between the first element 110 and the second element 120 and between the third element 140 and the second element 120, and thereby result in an increase in the distance between the auxiliary edge 113 of the first element 110 and the lower surface 121 of the second element 120 and an increase in the distance between the auxiliary edge 113 of the third element 140 and the lower surface 121 of the second element 120.

[0083] The first actuation rod 132 and the second actuation rod 162 are T-shaped. Each of the first actuation rod 132 and the second actuation rod 162 has a longitudinal rod portion 134, 164 extending along the extension and / or retraction direction of the corresponding actuation rod 132, 162. Each of the first actuation rod 132 and the second actuation rod 162 has a transverse rod portion 136, 166 at the distal end of the corresponding longitudinal rod portion 134, 164.

[0084] The first wedge-shaped structure 116 and the second wedge-shaped structure 146 are arranged on opposite sides of the corresponding longitudinal rod portion 134, 164. The first wedge-shaped structure 116 and the second wedge-shaped structure 146 engage with the transverse rod portion 136, 166 of the corresponding actuation rod 132, 162. Some exemplary shapes of the wedge-shaped structures 116, 166 are shown in FIG. Figure 5 The engagement angle of the engagement surface 117 , 167 relative to the upper surface of the respective element 110 , 140 may gradually decrease toward the respective hinge axis 138 , 168 .

[0085] The first element 110 includes a first opening 118 that allows at least a portion of the second actuator 160 to protrude through the first opening 118. The third element 140 includes a third opening 148 that allows at least a portion of the first actuator 130 to protrude through the third opening 148. The second element 120 includes two second openings 128 that allow at least a portion of the first actuator 130 and the second actuator 160 to protrude through, respectively. The openings of the first element 110, the second element 120, and the third element 140 facilitate the bed system 100' to be as thin as possible when in the lowered position.

[0086] In the illustrated example, the bed system 100' is configured such that raising the first element 110 and the third element 140 is achieved by a pulling action of the first actuator 130 and the second actuator 160. Figure 3 As illustrated, the bed system can be configured so that the raising of the elements 110, 140 is achieved by the pushing action of the actuator. It can also be desired that only the raising of the elements 110, 140 is provided as an active process, while the lowering of the elements 110, 140 can be a passive process, for example to avoid or reduce the risk of pinching. Therefore, in the illustrated example, the first actuator 130 and / or the second actuator 160 can be configured to actively retract the corresponding actuator rod 132, 162 from the extended actuator position to the retracted actuator position, and at the same time be configured to release the actuator rod 132, 162, for example to allow the actuator rod 132, 162 to extend from the retracted actuator position to the extended actuator position by a force applied to the first element 110 and / or the third element 140 (for example caused by the weight of a person).

[0087] Similar to About Figure 2 As described, bed system 100' may include one or more main extension elements and / or one or more auxiliary extension elements. For example, bed system 100' may include a first main extension element flexibly attached to the head side end of first element 110. Bed system 100' may include a first auxiliary extension element flexibly attached to the foot side end of first element 110. Bed system 100' may include a third main extension element flexibly attached to the head side end of third element 140. Bed system 100' may include a third auxiliary extension element flexibly attached to the foot side end of third element 140.

[0088] Figure 5 a and Figure 5 b schematically illustrates two different exemplary shapes of the wedge-shaped structures 116, 126, 166, in which it can be seen that the angle of the engagement surface 117, 127, 167 (e.g., relative to the upper surface of the element to which it is attached, see Figure 3 and Figure 4, corresponding to the horizontal in the figure) can gradually change, for example, decrease toward the corresponding hinge axis (corresponding to the right side of the figure). As shown, the engagement surfaces 117, 127, 167 can be curved. In addition, it can be seen that at the intermediate engagement surface position 181 between the initial engagement surface position 180 and the final engagement surface position 182, the angle of the engagement surfaces 117, 127, 167 can be zero, that is, the engagement surface is parallel to the upper surface of the element to which it is attached. The initial engagement surface position 180 is the portion of the engagement surface that engages with the corresponding actuating rod when the element is in a lowered rotational position. The final engagement surface position 182 is closer to the corresponding hinge axis than the initial engagement surface position 180.

[0089] The present disclosure has been described with reference to the preferred embodiments. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments, and changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0090] Throughout the specification, the use of the terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth", "primary", "secondary", "tertiary", etc. does not imply any particular order or importance, but is included to identify various elements. In addition, the labeling of a first element does not imply the presence of a second element, and vice versa.

[0091] Reference numerals list

[0092] 2 beds

[0093] 4 Bed frame

[0094] 6 Top surface

[0095] 8 Mattress

[0096] 10 Headend

[0097] 12-pin terminal

[0098] 14 Slats

[0099] 20 people

[0100] 100, 100' bed system

[0101] 101, 101A, 101B modules

[0102] 110 First Element

[0103] 111 Upper surface of the first element

[0104] 112 Main edge of first element

[0105] 113 Secondary edge of first element

[0106] 114 Head end of the first element

[0107] 115 The first element's foot end

[0108] 116 First wedge structure

[0109] 117 Engaging surface of the first wedge-shaped structure

[0110] 118 First Opening

[0111] 120 Second Component

[0112] 121 Lower surface of the second element

[0113] 126 Second wedge structure

[0114] 127 Engagement surface of the second wedge-shaped structure

[0115] 128 Second Opening

[0116] 130 First Actuator

[0117] 132 First actuator rod

[0118] 134 Longitudinal rod portion of the first actuating rod

[0119] 136 Transverse rod portion of the first actuating rod

[0120] 138 First hinge axis

[0121] 140 The third element

[0122] 141 Upper surface of the third element

[0123] 142 Main edge of the third element

[0124] 143 Secondary edge of the third element

[0125] 144 Head end of the third element

[0126] 145 The third element's pin

[0127] 146 Third wedge structure

[0128] 147 Engaging surface of the third wedge-shaped structure

[0129] 148 The Third Opening

[0130] 160 Second actuator

[0131] 162 Second actuating rod

[0132] 164 longitudinal rod portion of the second actuating rod

[0133] 166 Transverse rod portion of second actuating rod

[0134] 168 Second hinge axis

[0135] 170 First main extension element

[0136] 171 Upper surface of the first main extension element

[0137] 172 first auxiliary extension element

[0138] 173 Upper surface of the first auxiliary extension element

[0139] 180 Initial joint surface position

[0140] 181 Intermediate joint surface position

[0141] 182 Final joint surface position

Claims

1. A bed system that can be attached to a bed to turn a person over, the bed system comprising a first element and a second element, the first element having a substantially flat upper surface and the second element having a substantially flat lower surface, The lower surface of the second element is attachable to a top surface of a bed frame of a bed, for example to arrange the bed system between the bed frame and a mattress of the bed, The first element and the second element are hingedly attached along a first hinge axis, the upper surface of the first element extending perpendicularly to the first hinge axis from a major edge to a minor edge of the first element, in, wherein, when the first element is in a lowered rotational position relative to the second element, a lowered distance between the secondary edge of the first element and the lower surface of the second element is less than 8 cm, and wherein, in a raised rotational position, the raised distance between the secondary edge of the first element and the lower surface of the second element is at least 5 cm greater than the lowered distance, The bed system further includes a first actuator attached to the first element and / or the second element, the first actuator having a first actuator rod, the first actuator rod being capable of extending and / or retracting between a retracted actuator position and an extended actuator position perpendicular to the first hinge axis, and the first actuator rod extending and / or retracting in a space between the first element and the second element to achieve a change in the rotational position of the first element relative to the second element between the lowered rotational position and the raised rotational position.

2. The bed system of claim 1 , comprising a third element having a substantially flat upper surface, The third element and the second element are hingedly attached along a second hinge axis, the second hinge axis is preferably parallel to the first hinge axis, the upper surface of the third element extending perpendicularly to the second hinge axis from a major edge to a minor edge of the third element, in, wherein, when the third element is in a lowered rotational position relative to the second element, a lowered distance between the secondary edge of the third element and the lower surface of the second element is less than 8 cm, and wherein, in a raised rotational position, the raised distance between the secondary edge of the third element and the lower surface of the second element is at least 5 cm greater than the lowered distance, The bed system further includes a second actuator attached to the third element and / or the second element, the second actuator having a second actuator rod, the second actuator rod being capable of extending and / or retracting between a retracted actuator position and an extended actuator position perpendicular to the second hinge axis, and the second actuator rod extending and / or retracting in a space between the third element and the second element to achieve a change in the rotational position of the third element relative to the second element between the lowered rotational position and the raised rotational position.

3. The bed system of claim 1 , comprising a third element and a fourth element, the third element having a substantially flat upper surface and the fourth element having a substantially flat lower surface, The third element and the fourth element are hingedly attached along a second hinge axis, the upper surface of the third element extending perpendicularly to the second hinge axis from a major edge to a minor edge of the third element, in, when the third element is in a lowered rotational position relative to the fourth element, a lowered distance between the secondary edge of the third element and the lower surface of the fourth element is less than 8 cm, and wherein, in a raised rotational position, the raised distance between the secondary edge of the third element and the lower surface of the fourth element is at least 5 cm greater than the lowered distance, The bed system further includes a second actuator attached to the third element and / or the fourth element, the second actuator having a second actuator rod, the second actuator rod being capable of extending and / or retracting between a retracted actuator position and an extended actuator position perpendicular to the second hinge axis, and the second actuator rod extending and / or retracting in a space between the third element and the fourth element to achieve a change in the rotational position of the third element relative to the fourth element between the lowered rotational position and the raised rotational position, Wherein, the lower surface of the fourth element is attachable to the top surface of the bed frame of the bed.

4. A bed system according to any one of claims 2 or 3, in, The first hinge axis and the second hinge axis are substantially parallel, and wherein the first actuation rod and the second actuation rod extend and / or retract in substantially opposite directions, for example towards each other.

5. The bed system according to any one of claims 2 to 4, in, The first actuator and the second actuator are arranged side by side such that the first actuation rod and the second actuation rod extend and / or retract along substantially parallel offset directions.

6. A bed system according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The first element has one or more first wedge structures facing the second element, and the one or more first wedge structures are positioned to engage with the first actuating rod, so that extension or retraction of the first actuating rod causes engagement with the one or more first wedge structures and a relatively arranged portion of the second element, thereby causing an increase in the angle between the first element and the second element.

7. The bed system according to claim 6, in, The first actuating rod is T-shaped, having a longitudinal rod portion extending along an extension and / or retraction direction of the first actuating rod and a transverse rod portion at a distal end of the longitudinal rod portion, wherein the one or more first wedge-shaped structures include a first main wedge-shaped structure and a first auxiliary wedge-shaped structure arranged on opposite sides of the longitudinal rod portion of the first actuating rod, and wherein the one or more first wedge-shaped structures are engaged with the transverse rod portion of the first actuating rod.

8. The bed system according to any one of claims 6 to 7, in, The one or more first wedge-shaped structures each include a joining surface facing the second element, and wherein a joining angle of the joining surface relative to the upper surface of the first element optionally gradually decreases toward the first hinge axis and / or optionally has a size less than 45 degrees, for example less than 35 degrees.

9. The bed system according to any one of claims 6 to 8, in, Engagement of the first actuation rod with the one or more first wedge-shaped structures causes the rotational position of the first element relative to the second element to change from the lowered rotational position to the raised rotational position.

10. A bed system according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The first actuation rod is not coupled to the first element and is not coupled to the second element.

11. A bed system according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The distance between the first hinge axis and the secondary edge of the first element is greater than 250 mm, such as greater than 275 mm, such as greater than 300 mm.

12. A bed system according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The upper surface of the first element is formed by a first plate element having a thickness between 0.1 mm and 10 mm, such as between 0.1 mm and 5 mm, such as between 0.1 mm and 2.5 mm.

13. A bed system according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The first element and / or the second element includes an opening that allows at least a portion of the first actuator to protrude through the opening.

14. A bed system according to any one of the preceding claims as at least dependent on claim 2, in, The first element comprises a first opening allowing at least a portion of the second actuator to protrude therethrough, and optionally wherein the third element comprises a third opening allowing at least a portion of the first actuator to protrude therethrough.

15. A bed system according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The first actuator is configured to actively extend the first actuator rod from the retracted actuator position to the extended actuator position, and wherein the first actuator is configured to release the first actuator rod, for example to allow the first actuator rod to retract from the extended actuator position to the retracted actuator position by applying a force to the first element and / or the second element.

16. The bed system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, in, The first actuator is configured to actively retract the first actuator rod from the extended actuator position to the retracted actuator position, and wherein the first actuator is configured to release the first actuator rod, for example to allow the first actuator rod to extend from the retracted actuator position to the extended actuator position by applying a force to the first element and / or the second element.

17. A bed system according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The first element extends from a cranial end to a cranial end along the first hinge axis, and The bed system comprises a first main extension element flexibly attached to the head-side end of the first element, wherein the first main extension element has a substantially flat upper surface, and / or the bed system comprises a first auxiliary extension element flexibly attached to the foot-side end of the first element, wherein the first auxiliary extension element has a substantially flat upper surface.

18. A bed comprising a bed frame having a top surface for supporting a mattress, the bed further comprising a bed system according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The second element of the bed system is attached to the top surface such that the bed system is disposed between the bed frame and the mattress.

19. The bed according to claim 18, in, The second element is attached to the top surface at a position corresponding to the person's buttocks, and optionally wherein a fourth element is attached to the top surface at a position corresponding to the person's buttocks.

20. A bed system assembly, comprising a bed system according to any one of claims 1 to 17, the bed system assembly further comprising a control unit having a processing unit and an electronic memory, in, The control unit is connected to the first actuator and is adapted to control the extension and / or retraction of the first actuator.

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