Armrest and bed

Abstract

The invention provides an armrest and a bed which can follow up and down of a bed body and enable a user to walk safely. The armrest comprises a first connecting part 21 connected with the bed body 10 with the lifting function, a second connecting part 22 connected with the floor armrest 30, a first rotating part 23C rotatably connected relative to the first connecting part 21, and a second rotating part 23D rotatably connected relative to the second connecting part 22; and a switching mechanism 24 that is switchable between a movable state in which the armrest part 23 is allowed to extend and retract, a first rotation part 23C is rotated relative to the first connection part 21, and a second rotation part 23D is rotated relative to the second connection part 22, and an immovable state in which it is immovable. The switching mechanism (24) is configured so as to move the armrest section (23), the first rotating section (23C), and the second rotating section (23D) during lifting of the bed body (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an armrest and a bed. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a structure in which a bed and a floor-standing nursing armrest device are connected by an armrest rod. The armrest rod is fixed to the bed and the nursing armrest device in a fixed state by bolts or the like.

[0003] [Existing technical documents] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model No. 3096533 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-185242 Summary of the Invention If the bed in Patent Document 1 is a bed with a height adjustment function, the armrests must be replaced with, for example, the connecting armrest auxiliary component disclosed in Patent Document 2, which is retractable and its ends can rotate relative to the support column. If the movable part of the connecting armrest auxiliary component is always in a movable state in order to follow the bed's height adjustment, the armrest part may shift when the user leans on it, and the user may lose balance or fall. On the other hand, if the movable part of the connecting armrest auxiliary component is in a fixed state when raising or lowering the bed, the floor armrest device may be lifted, becoming unstable and unusable, and the armrest device may also be damaged.

[0004] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to provide a handrail and bed that can move up and down with the bed body, so that the user can walk safely while holding on.

[0005] [Problem-solving methods] According to one embodiment, the armrest includes: a first connecting portion connected to a bed body having a lifting function; a second connecting portion connected to a fixed member located away from the bed body; a retractable armrest portion including a first end rotatably connected to the first connecting portion and a second end rotatably connected to the second connecting portion; and a switching mechanism capable of switching between a movable state and a immovable state, wherein in the movable state, the armrest portion is retractable, the first end is rotatable relative to the first connecting portion, and the second end is rotatable relative to the second connecting portion; or in the immovable state, the armrest portion is not retractable, the first end is not rotatable relative to the first connecting portion, and the second end is not rotatable relative to the second connecting portion. The switching mechanism is configured to set the armrest portion, the first end, and the second end to a movable state when the bed body is raised or lowered.

[0006] According to one embodiment, the armrest includes: a first connecting portion connected to a bed body having a lifting function; a second connecting portion connected to a fixed member located away from the bed body; a retractable armrest portion including a first end rotatably connected to the first connecting portion and a second end rotatably connected to the second connecting portion; and a switching mechanism capable of switching between a movable state and a non-movable state, wherein in the movable state the armrest portion is retractable, and in the non-movable state the armrest portion is non-retractable. The switching mechanism is configured to set the armrest portion to the movable state when the bed body is raised or lowered.

[0007] The switching mechanism includes an actuator section; the actuator section is configured to be actuated based on a signal from the bed body regarding a lifting operation of the bed body to switch the armrest section, the first end and the second end, or the armrest section from the immobile state to the movable state; and the actuator section is configured to be actuated based on a signal from the bed body regarding the completion of a lifting operation of the bed body to switch the armrest section, the first end and the second end, or the armrest section from the movable state to the immobile state.

[0008] The switching mechanism includes an actuator section; the actuator section is configured to extend or retract the armrest section, rotate a first end relative to a first connecting portion, and rotate a second end relative to a second connecting portion in response to a signal from the bed body regarding a lifting operation of the bed body, or be configured to extend or retract the armrest section.

[0009] The switching mechanism includes an actuator section and an operation detection section for detecting a user's preset operation; when the operation detection section does not detect a user's preset operation, the actuator section is configured to make the armrest section, the first end and the second end, or the armrest section in a movable state; and when the operation detection section detects a user's preset operation, the actuator section is configured to switch the armrest section, the first end and the second end, or the armrest section from a movable state to a non-movable state.

[0010] The operation detection unit is a contact detection unit, which is disposed on part or all of the first connecting part, the second connecting part, and the armrest part, and is used to detect the user's contact; the preset operation is the user's contact with the contact detection unit.

[0011] The switching mechanism includes a manual switch that is operated by the user, a control unit connected to the bed body, and a wire connected to the manual switch. When the user manually operates the manual switch, the armrest, the first end, and the second end, or the armrest, switches from a non-movable state to a movable state, or from a movable state to a non-movable state. The manual switch is configured to transmit a signal corresponding to the user's manual operation to the bed body via the wire.

[0012] According to one embodiment, an armrest for connecting to a bed body with a lifting function includes: a base disposed on the ground; a support column disposed above the base; an armrest portion disposed above the support column; and an actuator for lifting the armrest portion via the support column. The actuator is configured to operate based on a signal from the bed body regarding a lifting operation of the bed body, to lift the armrest portion via the support column.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the armrest includes: a first connecting portion connected to a bed body having a lifting function; a second connecting portion connected to a fixed member located away from the bed body; and a retractable armrest portion including a first end rotatably connected to the first connecting portion and a second end rotatably connected to the second connecting portion.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the bed includes: a bed body with a lifting function; and a connecting armrest connected to the bed body. The connecting armrest includes: a first connecting portion connected to the bed body; a second connecting portion connected to a fixed member located away from the bed body; a retractable armrest portion including a first end rotatably connected to the first connecting portion and a second end rotatably connected to the second connecting portion; and a switching mechanism capable of switching between a movable state and a immovable state. In the movable state, the armrest portion is retractable, the first end is rotatable relative to the first connecting portion, and the second end is rotatable relative to the second connecting portion; or in the immovable state, the armrest portion is not retractable, the first end is not rotatable relative to the first connecting portion, and the second end is not rotatable relative to the second connecting portion. The switching mechanism is configured to set the armrest portion, the first end, and the second end to a movable state when the bed body is raised or lowered.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the bed includes a bed body with a lifting function; and a connecting armrest connected to the bed body. The connecting armrest includes: a first connecting portion connected to the bed body; a second connecting portion connected to a fixed member located away from the bed body; a retractable armrest portion including a first end rotatably connected to the first connecting portion and a second end rotatably connected to the second connecting portion; and a switching mechanism capable of switching between a movable state and a fixed state, wherein in the movable state the armrest portion is retractable, and in the fixed state the armrest portion is not retractable; wherein the switching mechanism is configured to set the armrest portion to the movable state when the bed body is raised or lowered.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the bed includes a bed body with a lifting function; a connecting armrest, one end of which is connected to the bed body; and a floor armrest connected to the other end of the connecting armrest. The floor armrest includes: a base disposed on the ground; a support column disposed above the base; an armrest portion disposed above the support column; and an actuator for lifting the armrest portion via the support column. The actuator is configured to operate based on a signal from the bed body regarding a lifting operation of the bed body, to lift the armrest portion via the support column.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the bed includes a bed body with a lifting function; and a connecting armrest connected to the bed body. The connecting armrest includes: a first connecting portion connected to the bed body; a second connecting portion connected to a fixed member at a location away from the bed body; and a retractable armrest portion including a first end rotatably connected to the first connecting portion and a second end rotatably connected to the second connecting portion.

[0018] [Technical Effects] This invention provides a handrail and bed that can move up and down with the bed body, allowing the user to walk safely while holding on. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the bed and floor armrests according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the bed 1 in its elevated state.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the connecting handrail according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the connecting handrail according to the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the connecting handrail according to the third embodiment.

[0024] Figure 6 (a) is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the connecting handrail according to the fourth embodiment, and (b) is an explanatory diagram of the manual switch section.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the bed and floor armrests according to the fifth embodiment.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting handrail according to the fifth embodiment.

[0027] Figure 9 It is a three-dimensional view of the bed based on the modified example.

[0028] Figure 10 It is a three-dimensional view of the bed based on the modified example.

[0029] Figure label: 1, 101, 201: Bed; 10: Bed body; 11: Base frame; 11A: Main beam; 11B: Beam; 11C: Leg; 11D: Support beam; 12: Lifting mechanism; X-link mechanism; 12A: First link; 12A1: Second link; 12A2: Lifting actuator; 12B, 12B1: Motor; 12B2: Cylinder; 12C: Beam; 13: Lifting frame; 13A, 1 3B: Retainer; 14: Side rail; 14A: Armrest; 15: Base plate; 15A: Backrest base plate; 15B: Lumbar base plate; 15C: Knee and leg base plate; 16: Headboard; 17: Footboard; 18: Control box; 20, 120, 220, 320, 420: Connecting armrests; 21: First connecting part; 21A: First support column connecting part; 21B: First rotating support part; 22: Second connecting part 22A: Second support column connection part; 22B: Second rotating support part; 22C: Insertion part; 23: Handrail part; 23A: Thick tube; 23B: Thin tube; 23C: First rotating part; 23D: Second rotating part; 24, 124, 224, 324: Switching mechanism; 24A, 24B, 24C: Electromagnetic switch; 24D, 24E, 24F: Wire; 24G, 24H, 24J: Electromagnetic switch pin, 30: floor handrail, 31: base, 32: support column, 33: handrail part, 124A, 124B, 124C: motor, 124C1: shaft, 225: contact sensor, 324K, 324L, 324M: contact sensor, 324A, 324B, 324C: manual switch part, 324G, 324H, 324J: switch body, 425: camera. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the bed 1 and the floor armrest 30 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 This is a perspective view of bed 1 in its raised state. For example, bed 1 is a bed used in nursing care or similar settings. Bed 1 is generally rectangular in shape, longer vertically in the plan view, and is used to support the body of a person lying horizontally. In this specification, the longitudinal direction of bed body 1 is defined as the "length direction," the headboard side of bed 1 is defined as the "front side," and the footboard side is defined as the "rear side." Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to the length direction of bed 1 is defined as the "width direction." Additionally, in the width direction of the bed, the right side (or right-side direction) of the user lying on the baseboard 15 is defined as the "right side" or simply "right," and the left side (or left-side direction) is defined as the "left side" or simply "left."

[0032] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, bed 1 includes a bed body 10 and connecting armrests 20. The bed body 10 includes a base frame 11, a lifting mechanism 12, a lifting frame 13, side rails 14, a base plate 15, a headboard 16, a footboard 17, and a control box 18 (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0033] The base frame 11 has a pair of left and right main beams 11A extending along the length direction. The pair of main beams 11A are connected to each other by a pair of beams 11B extending in the width direction, thereby forming a base frame 11 that is generally rectangular in shape. For example, legs 11C are installed at the four corners of the base frame 11.

[0034] The lifting mechanism 12 mainly includes a pair of left and right X-link mechanisms 12A and a lifting actuator 12B for driving the X-link mechanisms 12A. The pair of X-link mechanisms 12A and the lifting motor 12B are mounted on the base frame 11. Each of the left and right X-link mechanisms 12A has a rod-shaped first link 12A1 and a second link 12A2, which are rotatably connected at the midpoint of their respective length directions. The lower ends of the left and right X-link mechanisms 12A (first link 12A1 and second link 12A2) are connected to the base frame 11, and their upper ends are connected to the lifting frame 13. The pair of left and right X-link mechanisms 12A are interconnected by multiple beams 12C and move as a whole.

[0035] The lifting actuator 12B includes a motor 12B1 and a cylinder 12B2 driven by the motor 12B1 to extend and retract. A force-bearing point at the end of the cylinder 12B2 is rotatably connected to one of the beams connecting a pair of X-link mechanisms 12A. When the cylinder 12B2 extends, the ends of the pair of X-link mechanisms 12A rise, thereby raising the lifting frame 13 and the base plate 15 above it. Conversely, when the cylinder 12B2 retracts, the lifting frame 13 and the base plate 15 descend. The lifting actuator 12B is supported by a support beam 11D of the base frame 11.

[0036] The lifting frame 13 has multiple frames along its length, and these frames are connected to each other to form a single frame. Holders 13A are provided on the left and right sides of the front and rear portions of the lifting frame 13.

[0037] The side rail 14 is detachably mounted on the front retainer 13A. The side rail 14 can prevent the user from falling and help the user stand up, etc. The side rail 14 has a handrail 14A.

[0038] The base plate 15 is used to support the mattress (not shown) from below for a person lying on it. The base plate 15 is mounted on a pair of main beams of the lifting frame 13. The base plate 15 includes several components, such as a back base plate 15A, a lumbar base plate 15B, and a knee and leg base plate 15C. The base plate 15 can change the angle of the back base plate 15A and the knee base plate 15C relative to the lumbar base plate 15B by at least one electric actuator.

[0039] The headboard 16 is installed at the front end of the lifting frame 13. The footboard 17 is installed at the rear end of the lifting frame 13.

[0040] Control box 18 (reference) Figure 3 The control box 18 is mounted on the lifting frame 13 and has a control unit (not shown) capable of controlling the lifting mechanism 12 and the bending of the base plate 15. The control unit (not shown) includes a control computer, which has a computing unit, a storage unit, etc. The control box 18 is connected to wires extending from the lifting motor, from the electric actuator, from a manual switch (not shown), and from the connecting handrail 20 (see reference 24D to 24E). Figure 3 The manual switch is used to operate the lifting mechanism 12 and the bending of the base plate 15.

[0041] One end of the connecting armrest 20 is connected to the bed body 10, and the other end is connected to a fixed floor armrest 30. The floor armrest 30 is located away from the bed body 10 and includes a base 31, two support columns 32, and armrest sections 33. The base 31 is rectangular and is placed on the ground. The two support columns 32 are mounted on the base 31. The armrest sections 33 are mounted on the support columns 32. The floor armrest 30 is configured to allow for height adjustment of the armrest sections 33. The floor armrest 30 acts as a fixed component.

[0042] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the connecting handrail 20. The connecting handrail 20 includes a first connecting part 21, a second connecting part 22, a handrail part 23, and a switching mechanism 24. The first connecting part 21 includes a first support column connecting part 21A and a first rotating support part 21B. The first support column connecting part 21A is connected to the support column of the handrail part 14A (see reference). Figure 1 The first rotating support portion 21B includes a semi-cylindrical portion with an arc-shaped end. The second connecting portion 22 includes a second support column connecting portion 22A and a second rotating support portion 22B. The second support column connecting portion 22A is connected to the support column of the handrail portion 33 (see reference). Figure 1 The second rotating support 22B includes a semi-cylindrical portion 22C with an arc-shaped end.

[0043] The handrail portion 23 includes a thick tube 23A, a thin tube 23B, a first rotating portion 23C, and a second rotating portion 23D. The thin tube 23B is fitted into the thick tube 23A and can slide along the axial direction of the thick tube 23A. Therefore, the handrail portion 23 is telescopic. The thin tube 23B has a plurality of holes (not shown) arranged along its axial direction. The first rotating portion 23C is mounted at the end of the thick tube 23A and includes a semi-cylindrical portion with an arc-shaped end. The semi-cylindrical portion of the first rotating portion 23C is rotatably connected to the semi-cylindrical portion 22C of the first rotating support portion 21B. The second rotating portion 23D is mounted at the end of the thin tube 23B and includes a semi-cylindrical portion with an arc-shaped end. The semi-cylindrical portion of the second rotating portion 23D is rotatably connected to the semi-cylindrical portion 22C of the second rotating support portion 22B. The first rotating portion 23C and the second rotating portion 23D each have a plurality of holes (not shown) formed circumferentially around a rotation axis. The first rotating part 23C corresponds to the first end, and the second rotating part 23D corresponds to the second end.

[0044] The switching mechanism 24 includes three electromagnetic switches 24A-24C and three wires 24D-24F. The electromagnetic switches 24A-24C and wires 24D-24F correspond to the actuator section. Electromagnetic switch 24A is fixed to the first rotary support 21B and has an electromagnetic switch pin 24G. The electromagnetic switch pin 24G is configured to be in a protruding or retracted state. One end of wire 24D is connected to electromagnetic switch 24A, and the other end is connected to control box 18.

[0045] Electromagnetic switch 24B is fixed to the semi-cylindrical portion 22C of the second rotating support 22B and has an electromagnetic switch pin 24H. The electromagnetic switch pin 24H is configured to be in a protruding or retracted state. One end of wire 24E is connected to electromagnetic switch 24B, and the other end is connected to control box 18. Electromagnetic switch 24C is fixed to the end of the second connecting portion 22 of the thick tube 23A and has an electromagnetic switch pin 24J. The electromagnetic switch pin 24J is configured to be in a protruding or retracted state. One end of wire 24F is connected to electromagnetic switch 24C, and the other end is connected to control box 18.

[0046] When the electromagnetic switch pin 24G is in the protruding state, it is inserted into any one of the multiple holes in the first rotating part 23C, and the first rotating part 23C cannot rotate relative to the first connecting part 21. When the electromagnetic switch pin 24G is in the retracted state, it is not inserted into any one of the multiple holes in the first rotating part 23C, and the first rotating part 23C can rotate relative to the first connecting part 21.

[0047] When the electromagnetic switch pin 24H is in the protruding state, it is inserted into any one of the multiple holes in the second rotating part 23D, and the second rotating part 23D cannot rotate relative to the second connecting part 22. When the electromagnetic switch pin 24H is in the retracted state, it is not inserted into any one of the multiple holes in the second rotating part 23D, and the second rotating part 23D can rotate relative to the second connecting part 22.

[0048] When the electromagnetic switch pin 24J is in the protruding state, it is inserted into any one of the holes in the thin tube 23B, and the handrail 23 cannot extend or retract. When the electromagnetic switch pin 24J is in the retracted state, it is not inserted into any one of the holes in the thin tube 23B, and the handrail 23 can extend or retract.

[0049] Based on signals from the control box 18, the switching mechanism 24 can be switched to a non-movable state, causing all electromagnetic switch pins 24G, 24H, and 24J to be in a protruding state, making the armrest portion 23 non-retractable, the first rotating portion 23C non-rotatable relative to the first connecting portion 21, and the second rotating portion 23D non-rotatable relative to the second connecting portion 22. Alternatively, it can be switched to a movable state, causing all electromagnetic switch pins 24G, 24H, and 24J to be in a retracted state, making the armrest portion 23 retractable, the first rotating portion 23C rotatable relative to the first connecting portion 21, and the second rotating portion 23D rotatable relative to the second connecting portion 22. In this embodiment, electromagnetic switch pins are used in the switching mechanism; however, the actuator of the switching mechanism 24 can also be hydraulic or pneumatic, and is not limited to electromagnetic switch pins. The locking mechanism is not limited to using insertion pins or pull-out pins; a braking mechanism utilizing friction can also be used.

[0050] In this embodiment, when the user is not using the lifting bed body 10, the armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D can be in a fixed state via the switching mechanism 24. When the user operates the manual switch to lift the bed body 10, the electromagnetic switches 24A-24C are actuated according to the signal related to the lifting operation from the control box 18, and the armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D switch from a fixed state to a movable state. Thus, the connecting armrest 20 can extend, retract, and rotate as the bed body 10 is lifted. When the lifting operation is completed, the electromagnetic switches 24A-24C are actuated according to the signal from the control box 18 indicating that the lifting operation is complete, and the armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D return from the movable state to the fixed state.

[0051] As described above, according to this embodiment, the length and angle of the connecting armrest 20 can automatically follow the movement of the bed body 10 when the bed body 10 is raised or lowered. Furthermore, the user can safely walk along the connecting armrest 20. Therefore, the bed body 10 with a lifting function and the floor armrest 30 can be connected via the connecting armrest 20, seamlessly connecting walkable routes from the sleeping area to the toilet or other accessible locations.

[0052] Next, the connecting armrest 120 of the second embodiment will be described. Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the connecting handrail 120. Components identical to those in the connecting handrail 20 of the first embodiment will use the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0053] In the switching mechanism 24 of the connecting handrail 20 in the first embodiment, three electromagnetic switches 24A to 24C are provided as actuators. In the switching mechanism 124 of the connecting handrail 120 in this embodiment, three motors 124A to 124C are provided instead.

[0054] Motor 124A is fixed to the first rotating support 21B. The output shaft of motor 124A is connected to a rotating shaft (not shown) of the first rotating part 23C. Therefore, when motor 124A rotates, the first rotating part 23C rotates relative to the first connecting part 21 via the rotating shaft (not shown). Motor 124B is fixed to the second rotating support 22B. The output shaft of motor 124B is connected to a rotating shaft (not shown) of the second rotating part 23D. Therefore, when motor 124B rotates, the second rotating part 23D rotates relative to the second connecting part 22 via the rotating shaft (not shown). Motor 124C is fixed to the thick tube 23A, for example, as a linear actuator. Motor 124C includes a shaft 124C1, the end of which is fixed to the thin tube 23B. The shaft 124C1 reciprocates under the drive of motor 124C, causing the connecting handrail 120 to extend and retract. The rotation direction and speed of motors 124A to 124C are controlled by the control unit of control box 18.

[0055] In this embodiment, when the user is not operating the lifting bed body 10, the motors 124A-124C are not working, and the armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D are in a fixed state. When the user operates the manual switch to lift the bed body 10, the motors 124A-124C operate in conjunction with the lifting operation of the bed body 10 based on the lifting operation signal from the control box 18. The armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D are in a movable state, thereby driving the connecting armrest 120 to extend, retract, and rotate. When the lifting operation is completed, the motors 124A-124C stop working, and the armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D return from the movable state to the fixed state.

[0056] The connecting handrail 120 in this embodiment can achieve the same effect as the connecting handrail 20 in the first embodiment.

[0057] Next, the connecting armrest 220 of the third embodiment will be described. Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the connecting handrail 220. Components identical to those in the connecting handrail 20 of the first embodiment will use the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0058] The switching mechanism 224 of the connecting armrest 220 in this embodiment includes a contact sensor 225. The contact sensor 225 can be a sensor capable of detecting touch from a user, such as a capacitive sensor or a load sensor. The contact sensor 225 is sheet-shaped and mounted on the surfaces of the first connecting portion 21, the second connecting portion 22, and the armrest portion 23. The contact sensor 225 and the electromagnetic switches 24A to 24C are electrically connected via wires not shown in the figure. The contact sensor 225 includes a control unit not shown in the figure. When no contact between the user and the contact sensor 225 is detected, the control unit keeps all electromagnetic switch pins 24G, 24H, and 24J in a retracted state. When contact between the user and the contact sensor 225 is detected, the control unit keeps all electromagnetic switch pins 24G, 24H, and 24J in a protruding state. The contact sensor 225 corresponds to both an operation detection unit and a contact detection unit. Contact between the user and the contact sensor 225 corresponds to a preset operation.

[0059] In this embodiment, when the contact sensor 225 does not detect user contact, all electromagnetic switch pins 24G, 24H, and 24J are in a retracted state, and the armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D are in a movable state. In this state, when the user operates the manual switch to raise or lower the bed body 10, the connecting armrest 220 will extend, retract, and rotate along with the raising and lowering of the bed body 10. Furthermore, when the contact sensor 225 detects user contact, all electromagnetic switch pins 24G, 24H, and 24J are in a protruding state, and the armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D change from a movable state to a fixed state. Moreover, after the contact sensor 225 detects user contact and changes the armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D from a movable state to a fixed state, for example, after 30 seconds to 1 minute, it returns them to a movable state.

[0060] The connecting handrail 220 of this embodiment can achieve the same effect as the connecting handrail 20 of the first embodiment. In addition, the contact sensor 225 can be provided on all of the first connecting part 21, the second connecting part 22 and the handrail part 23, or it can be provided on only a portion of the first connecting part 21, the second connecting part 22 and the handrail part 23.

[0061] Next, the connecting armrest 320 of the fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 6 (a) is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the connecting handrail 320. Figure 6 (b) is a schematic diagram of the manual switch units 324A to 324C. Components identical to those in the connecting armrest 20 of the first embodiment will be referred to by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0062] In the switching mechanism 24 of the connecting handrail 20 in the first embodiment, three electromagnetic switches 24A to 24C are provided as actuators. However, in the switching mechanism 324 of the connecting handrail 320 in this embodiment, three manual switches 324A to 324C are provided instead. Each manual switch 324A to 324C includes a switch body 324G to 324J and a contact sensor 324K to 324M.

[0063] The switch body 324G and contact sensor 324K of the manual switch unit 324A are fixed to the first rotation support 21B. The switch body 324G is configured such that a pin (not shown) is in a protruding or retracted state via, for example, a rotating rod L. When the pin of the switch body 324G is in the protruding state, the pin is inserted into any one of the plurality of holes in the first rotating part 23C, and the first rotating part 23C is not rotatable relative to the first connecting part 21. When the pin is in the retracted state, the pin is not inserted into any of the plurality of holes in the first rotating part 23C, and the first rotating part 23C is rotatable relative to the first connecting part 21. The rod L of the switch body 324G is located on the lower side ( Figure 6 (b) The right side of the figure shows the protruding state of the pin.

[0064] One end of wire 24D is connected to contact sensor 324K. For example... Figure 6 As shown in the right figure of (b), when the lever L of the switch body 324G contacts the contact sensor 324K, the contact sensor 324K sends a signal (ON signal) to the control box 18 indicating that the lever L is in contact. Furthermore, as... Figure 6 As shown in the left figure of (b), when the lever L of the switch body 324G is separated from the contact sensor 324K, the contact sensor 324K sends a signal (OFF signal) to the control box 18 indicating that the lever L is separated. That is, when the pin of the manual switch part 324A is in the protruding state and the first rotating part 23C cannot rotate relative to the first connecting part 21 (immovable state), the contact sensor 324K sends an ON signal to the control box 18. When the pin of the manual switch part 324A is in the retracted state and the first rotating part 23C can rotate relative to the first connecting part 21 (movable state), the contact sensor 324K sends an OFF signal to the control box 18.

[0065] The switch body 324H and contact sensor 324L of the manual switch unit 324B are fixed to the second rotating part 23D. The switch body 324H has the same structure as the switch body 324G. When the pin of the switch body 324H is in the protruding state, the pin is inserted into any one of the plurality of holes in the second rotating part 23D, and the second rotating part 23D is not rotatable relative to the second connecting part 22. When the pin is in the retracted state, the pin is not inserted into any of the plurality of holes in the second rotating part 23D, and the second rotating part 23D is rotatable relative to the second connecting part 22.

[0066] One end of wire 24E is connected to contact sensor 324L. Similar to contact sensor 324K, contact sensor 324L sends an ON or OFF signal to control box 18 based on the contact or separation of lever L of switch body 324H. That is, when the pin of manual switch part 324B is in the protruding state and the second rotating part 23D cannot rotate relative to the second connecting part 22 (immovable state), contact sensor 324L sends an ON signal to control box 18; when the pin of manual switch part 324B is in the retracted state and the second rotating part 23D can rotate relative to the second connecting part 22 (movable state), contact sensor 324L sends an OFF signal to control box 18.

[0067] The switch body 324J and contact sensor 324M of the manual switch unit 324C are fixed to the end of the second connecting portion 22 of the thick tube 23A. The switch body 324J has the same structure as the switch body 324G. When the pin of the switch body 324J is in the protruding state, the pin is inserted into any one of the multiple holes of the thin tube 23B, and the handle portion 23 is not retractable. When the pin is in the retracted state, the pin is not inserted into any of the multiple holes of the thin tube 23B, and the handle portion 23 is retractable.

[0068] One end of wire 24F is connected to contact sensor 324M. Similar to contact sensor 324K, contact sensor 324M sends an ON or OFF signal to control box 18 based on the contact or separation of lever L of switch body 324H. That is, when the pin of manual switch part 324C is in the protruding state and the handle part 23 is in the non-retractable state (immovable state), contact sensor 324M sends an ON signal to control box 18; when the pin of manual switch part 324C is in the retracted state and the handle part 23 is in the retractable state (movable state), contact sensor 324M sends an OFF signal to control box 18.

[0069] When the control box 18 receives an ON signal from at least one contact sensor 324K to 324M, the lifting function of the bed body 10 is disabled; when it receives OFF signals from all contact sensors 324K to 324M, the lifting function of the bed body 10 is activated. Therefore, the user can operate all manual switches 324A to 324C to enable the armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D, thereby performing the lifting operation of the bed body 10.

[0070] The connecting handrail 320 in this embodiment can achieve the same effect as the connecting handrail 20 in the first embodiment.

[0071] Next, the bed 101 and the connecting armrest 420 of the fifth embodiment will be described. Figure 7 This is an overall perspective view of the bed 101 and the floor armrest 30 according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting handrail 420 according to the fifth embodiment. Components identical to those in the connecting handrail 20 of the first embodiment will be referred to by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0072] The switching mechanism 424 of the connecting armrest 420 in this embodiment includes a camera 425 mounted on an indoor wall, ceiling, or other surface. The camera 425 is connected to the control box 18 via a wire 425A. The camera 425, acting as an operation detection unit, captures images of a user lying on the base plate 15 of the bed body 10 and analyzes the user's movements based on the captured data. When the control unit (not shown) of the camera 425 detects that the user has lowered their legs from the mattress and is sitting on the edge of the mattress, all electromagnetic switch pins 24G, 24H, and 24J are in the protruding state. When the user is not detected sitting on the edge of the mattress, all electromagnetic switch pins 24G, 24H, and 24J are in the retracted state. The user's sitting position on the edge of the mattress corresponds to a predetermined action.

[0073] In this embodiment, when the camera 425 does not detect the user's posture, all electromagnetic switch pins 24G, 24H, and 24J are in a retracted state, and the armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D are in a movable state. In this state, when the user operates the manual switch to raise or lower the bed body 10, the connecting armrest 420 will extend, retract, and rotate along with the raising and lowering of the bed body 10. Furthermore, when the camera 425 detects the user's posture, all electromagnetic switch pins 24G, 24H, and 24J are in a protruding state, and the armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D change from a movable state to a fixed state. Additionally, the camera 425 detects the user's posture, changes the armrest 23, the first rotating part 23C, and the second rotating part 23D from a movable state to a fixed state, and after, for example, 30 seconds to 1 minute, returns them to a movable state.

[0074] The connecting handrail 420 of this embodiment can achieve the same effect as the connecting handrail 20 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, data captured by the camera 425 can be sent to the control box 18, and the control unit (not shown) of the control box 18 can analyze the user's movements. Moreover, the camera 425 and the control unit (not shown) of the control box 18 can transmit signals wirelessly, without the need for a wire 425A.

[0075] The above embodiments are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention to these embodiments. The present invention can be implemented in various forms different from the above embodiments.

[0076] For example, in the connecting handrail 220, a contact sensor 225 can be installed on the handrail portion 33 of the floor handrail 30. In the connecting handrail 320, the three manual switches 324A to 324C are configured for individual manual operation. The three manual switches 324A to 324C can also be connected via a linkage mechanism, allowing operation of one switch to operate the other two switches. In this case, only one contact sensor is needed. Furthermore, although the manual switches 324A to 324C are operated by rotating the lever L, a switch for rotating the lever L can also be installed, for example, at the side rail 14, and the operating part and the lever L can be connected via a linkage mechanism, allowing the lever L to be rotated by operating the switch.

[0077] like Figure 9 As shown, the bed 201 of this variant includes a bed body 10, a connecting armrest 20, and a floor armrest 130. The floor armrest 130 is configured to move up and down with the lifting and lowering operation of the bed body 10. The floor armrest 130 includes a base 31, two support columns 32, an armrest portion 33, and an electric actuator 34 disposed at the lower part of the support columns 32. Each electric actuator 34 is connected to a control box 18 via a wire 35. When the user operates a manual switch to raise or lower the bed body 10, each electric actuator 34 is actuated according to a signal from the control box 18 regarding the lifting and lowering operation, causing each support column 32 to extend or retract, and the armrest portion 33 to rise or fall. Therefore, the armrest portion 33 moves up and down with the height of the bed body 10. At this time, the movable part of the connecting armrest 20 is in a fixed state. In this variant, the connecting armrest 20 may not include the movable part as in the above embodiment.

[0078] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the switching mechanisms 24, 124, 224, and 324 are configured to switch the armrest portion 23, the first rotating portion 23C, and the second rotating portion 23D between a movable state and a non-movable state. However, they can also be configured to switch only the armrest portion 23 between a movable state and a non-movable state. That is, the armrest portion 23 can be equipped with only the electromagnetic switch 24C, only the motor 124C, and only the manual switch portion 324C, so that only the armrest portion 23 is retractable or non-retractable, and the first rotating portion 23C and the second rotating portion 23D can always rotate. With such a connecting armrest, when the bed body 10 rises or falls, the length of the connecting armrest can automatically follow the movement of the bed body 10, and the user can safely walk along the connecting armrest.

[0079] Furthermore, in the third and fifth embodiments described above, the switching mechanisms 224 and 424 include a contact sensor 225 and a camera 425 as operation detection units; however, these sensors can be substituted, for example, as... Figure 10As shown, it may include a pad sensor 525 for detecting user foot pressure. Alternatively, it may be an infrared sensor, a pad sensor (pressure sensor) placed on the mattress for detecting user posture, or various sensors mounted on the bed body 10 or the floor armrest 30 to detect pressure changes caused by user actions.

[0080] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the connecting armrest 20 includes a switching mechanism 24, but it may not include the switching mechanism 24. That is, the connecting armrest 20 is composed of a first connecting part 21, a second connecting part 22, and an armrest part 23, and the connecting armrest 20 can be connected to the bed body 10 and the floor armrest 30. With this structure, when the bed body 10 is raised or lowered, the length and angle of the connecting armrest 20 can automatically follow the movement of the bed body 10. Therefore, the bed body 10 with a lifting function and the floor armrest 30 can be connected through the connecting armrest 20, which can seamlessly connect a walkable guide route from the sleeping area to the toilet, etc.

Claims

1. A handrail, characterized in that, include: The first connecting part is connected to the bed body with lifting function; The second connecting part is connected to a fixing member located away from the bed body; The retractable handrail includes a first end rotatably connected to a first connecting portion and a second end rotatably connected to a second connecting portion; The switching mechanism can switch between a movable state and a non-movable state. In the movable state, the armrest is retractable, the first end is rotatable relative to the first connecting part, and the second end is rotatable relative to the second connecting part. Alternatively, in the non-movable state, the armrest is not retractable, the first end is not rotatable relative to the first connecting part, and the second end is not rotatable relative to the second connecting part. The switching mechanism is configured to make the armrest, the first end, and the second end movable when the bed body is raised or lowered.

2. A handrail, characterized in that, include: The first connecting part is connected to the bed body with lifting function; The second connecting part is connected to a fixing member located away from the bed body; The retractable handrail includes a first end rotatably connected to a first connecting portion and a second end rotatably connected to a second connecting portion; A switching mechanism that can switch between a movable state and a non-movable state; in the movable state, the armrest is retractable, and in the non-movable state, the armrest is not retractable. The switching mechanism is configured to make the armrest movable when the bed body is raised or lowered.

3. The handrail according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the switching mechanism includes an actuator section; The actuator is configured to be actuated based on a signal from the bed body regarding a lifting operation of the bed body, to switch the armrest, the first end and the second end, or the armrest itself, from the immobile state to the movable state. The actuator is configured to be actuated based on a signal from the bed body indicating completion of a lifting operation of the bed body, so as to switch the armrest, the first end and the second end, or the armrest from the movable state to the immovable state.

4. The handrail according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the switching mechanism includes an actuator section; The actuator is configured to extend or retract the armrest, rotate the first end relative to the first connecting portion, and rotate the second end relative to the second connecting portion in response to a signal from the bed body regarding a lifting operation of the bed body, or is configured to extend or retract the armrest.

5. The handrail according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the switching mechanism includes an actuator unit and an operation detection unit for detecting a user's preset operation; When the operation detection unit does not detect a user's preset operation, the actuator unit is configured to make the armrest, the first end, and the second end, or the armrest, movable; and When the operation detection unit detects a user's preset operation, the actuator unit is configured to switch the armrest, the first end and the second end, or the armrest from a movable state to a non-movable state.

6. The handrail according to claim 5, wherein the operation detection unit is a contact detection unit, and the contact detection unit is disposed on part or all of the first connecting part, the second connecting part and the handrail part, for detecting user contact; The preset operation is the user's contact with the contact detection unit.

7. The armrest according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the switching mechanism includes a manual switch operated by the user, a control unit connected to the bed body, and the manual switch; When the user manually operates the manual switch, the handrail, the first end and the second end, or the handrail itself, switches from a fixed state to a movable state, or from a movable state to a fixed state. The manual switch is configured to transmit a signal corresponding to a user's manual operation to the bed body via the wire.

8. An armrest for connecting to a bed body with a lifting function, comprising: The base is set on the ground; A support column is positioned above the base; The handrail is located above the support column; An actuator for raising and lowering the handrail via the support column; The actuator is configured to operate based on a signal from the bed body regarding a lifting operation of the bed body, so as to lift the armrest section via the support column.

9. A handrail, comprising: The first connecting part is connected to the bed body with lifting function; The second connecting part is connected to a fixing member located away from the bed body; The retractable armrest includes a first end rotatably connected to a first connecting portion and a second end rotatably connected to a second connecting portion.

10. A bed comprising: The bed body has a lifting function; as well as Connect the armrests to the bed body; The connecting handrail includes: The first connecting part is connected to the bed body; The second connecting part is connected to a fixing member located away from the bed body; The retractable armrest includes a first end rotatably connected to a first connecting portion and a second end rotatably connected to a second connecting portion; and The switching mechanism can switch between a movable state and a non-movable state. In the movable state, the armrest is retractable, the first end is rotatable relative to the first connecting part, and the second end is rotatable relative to the second connecting part. Alternatively, in the non-movable state, the armrest is not retractable, the first end is not rotatable relative to the first connecting part, and the second end is not rotatable relative to the second connecting part. The switching mechanism is configured to make the armrest, the first end, and the second end movable when the bed body is raised or lowered.

11. A bed comprising: The bed body has a lifting function; as well as Connect the armrests to the bed body; The connecting handrail includes: The first connecting part is connected to the bed body; The second connecting part is connected to a fixing member located away from the bed body; The retractable handrail includes a first end rotatably connected to a first connecting portion and a second end rotatably connected to a second connecting portion; A switching mechanism that can switch between a movable state and a non-movable state; in the movable state, the armrest is retractable, and in the non-movable state, the armrest is not retractable. The switching mechanism is configured to make the armrest movable when the bed body is raised or lowered.

12. A bed comprising: The bed body has a lifting function; The armrest is connected, with one end of it connected to the bed body; as well as A floor-mounted handrail is connected to the other end of the connecting handrail; The floor-mounted handrail includes: The base is set on the ground; A support column is positioned above the base; The handrail is located above the support column; An actuator for raising and lowering the handrail via the support column; The actuator is configured to operate based on a signal from the bed body regarding a lifting operation of the bed body, so as to lift the armrest section via the support column.

13. A bed comprising: The bed body has a lifting function; as well as Connect the armrests to the bed body; The connecting handrail includes: The first connecting part is connected to the bed body; The second connecting part is connected to a fixing member located away from the bed body; The retractable armrest includes a first end rotatably connected to a first connecting portion and a second end rotatably connected to a second connecting portion.

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