Side rails

Abstract

To provide user-friendly side rail technology. [Solution] The bed has a lower crossbar that can be attached to the side frame of the bed, an upper crossbar, a plurality of vertical bars that are mounted so as to be able to stand up and fall over the lower crossbar and the upper crossbar, and a holding mechanism between the vertical bars and the upper crossbar that can hold the vertical bars in an upright position, and the vertical bars have a bent portion that bends toward the upper crossbar when the vertical bar is in a fallen position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a foldable side rail.

Background Art

[0002] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, there was an invention related to a foldable side rail as a side rail used for a bed device or the like.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure aims to provide a technology related to a side rail that is highly convenient for users, for example.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The side rail of the present disclosure includes a lower crossbar that can be mounted on a side frame of a bed, an upper crossbar, a plurality of vertical bars that are attached so as to be able to stand and fall between the lower crossbar and the upper crossbar, and a holding mechanism between the vertical bars and the upper crossbar that can hold the vertical bars in a standing state. The vertical bars have a bent portion that bends toward the upper crossbar side when the vertical bars are in a fallen state.

Effects of the Invention

[0006] According to the present disclosure, for example, it becomes possible to provide a technology related to a side rail that is highly convenient for users.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] [Figure 1] (a) A diagram illustrating the appearance of the side rail in its normal (upright) state in the first embodiment, and (b) A diagram illustrating the appearance of the side rail when it is folded (reclined). [Figure 2] (a) an external view and (b) a cross-sectional view of the vertical support in the first embodiment. [Figure 3] (a) is an external view and (b) is a cross-sectional view showing the collapsed state of the vertical support in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] (a) an external view and (b) a cross-sectional view of the operating mechanism in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] (a) a cross-sectional view, (b) a cross-sectional view, and (c) a cross-sectional view of the operating mechanism in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] (a) A diagram illustrating the appearance of the side rail in its normal (upright) state in the second embodiment, and (b) A diagram illustrating the appearance of the side rail when it is folded (reclined). [Figure 7] (a) A diagram illustrating the appearance of the side rail in its normal (upright) state in the third embodiment, and (b) A diagram illustrating the appearance of the side rail when it is folded (reclined). [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating the vertical support in the third embodiment. [Figure 9] (a) an external view showing the collapsed state of the vertical support in the third embodiment, (b) a cross-sectional view showing the collapsed state of the vertical support, and (c) an enlarged view of the support provided on the vertical support. [Figure 10] (a) an external view showing the collapsed state of the vertical support in the third embodiment, (b) a cross-sectional view showing the collapsed state of the vertical support, and (c) an explanatory diagram of the support provided on the vertical support. [Figure 11] This is an enlarged explanatory diagram showing the connection between the vertical and upper horizontal bars in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] (a) an external view and (b) a cross-sectional view of the operating mechanism in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 13] (a) a cross-sectional view and (b) a cross-sectional view of the operating mechanism in the fifth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The embodiments for implementing this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are just one example of what this disclosure provides, and the contents of this disclosure should not be interpreted as being limited based on the following description.

[0009] Generally, bedside rails that can be installed at the bedside are known. Furthermore, some of these side rails are designed to be foldable depending on the user's needs.

[0010] Conventional foldable side rails posed a risk of users pinching their fingers in the gap between the upper horizontal rail (upper horizontal rail, upper horizontal pipe) and the vertical rail (support column, vertical pipe) when folding the side rails or when the user takes a seated position on the edge of the rail. Therefore, to avoid the risk of users pinching their fingers, some products have a stopper component that changes the height of the side rails when folded.

[0011] As mentioned above, the vertical bars on side rails have generally been straight. This means that if a user were to apply weight to the upper horizontal bar, the vertical bar would bend under the load, creating a risk of the user getting their fingers caught.

[0012] To avoid such risks, for example, the gap between the vertical rails and the upper horizontal rails may be increased. However, increasing the gap increases the overall height of the side rails. If the side rails are high after folding, the upper horizontal rails will be higher than the top surface of the mattress in the bed system. In that case, the height of the side rails will hinder the user from transferring from the bed system to other devices such as a wheelchair.

[0013] In addition, there is a product that enables the upper horizontal rail to be positioned lower than the upper surface of the mattress by releasing a finger pinching prevention stopper only when the user described above transfers. However, every time the user transfers, it is necessary for an assistant, staff, etc. to release the finger pinching prevention stopper, which makes the operation complicated. Due to the complicated operation, there has been a problem that such a side rail is difficult to use in a medical field.

[0014] Also, in a foldable side rail, it is known that the side rail (vertical rail) may have a holding mechanism for holding in a standing position. Due to the constraints of the mechanism, this holding mechanism may sometimes have a structure that protrudes above the upper surface of the upper horizontal rail of the side rail.

[0015] Therefore, when the side rail is folded, for example, the holding mechanism often becomes higher than the upper surface of the mattress. Then, there has been a problem that when a user in bed transfers to another device or gets out of bed, the feet are likely to get caught on the holding mechanism. Also, there has been a problem that when the user catches their foot, it leads to a risk of falling.

[0016] In addition, since the holding mechanism protrudes above the upper surface, the upper surface of the side rail does not have a flat shape. Therefore, there has also been a problem that it is difficult to use a side table or the like on the bed device, and it has been in a state that is inconvenient for staff such as medical workers and users in bed.

[0017] The present invention has been proposed to solve one or more of such problems. Hereinafter, embodiments when the side rail of the present invention is applied will be described.

[0018] [1. First Embodiment] [1.1 Overall Configuration] Side rail 1 is a side rail that can be attached to the side frame of a bed device (not shown), for example. Side rail 1 is provided so that multiple vertical supports are spanned between horizontal bars that are arranged parallel to each other in the horizontal direction, intersecting with the horizontal bars to support them.

[0019] As shown in Figure 1(a), the side rail 1 has a lower crossbar 4 and an upper crossbar 3 that is parallel to the lower crossbar 4 in the horizontal direction. The lower crossbar 4 has one or more protrusions 6 that can be attached to mounting holes provided in the side frame of the bed device.

[0020] Furthermore, multiple vertical bars 2 are provided parallel to each other between the upper horizontal bar 3 and the lower horizontal bar 4. The vertical bars 2 are configured to be able to stand up and fall down. Figure 1(a) shows the vertical bars 2 in an upright position (standing position), illustrating the normal use. A holding mechanism 5 for maintaining the upright position of the vertical bars 2 is provided on one end of the upper horizontal bar 3. The vertical bar 2 also includes a vertical bar 2a directly connected to the upper horizontal bar 3 and the lower horizontal bar 4, and a vertical bar 2b connected to the upper horizontal bar 3 via the holding mechanism 5. Note that vertical bars 2a and 2b together are referred to as vertical bar 2. In this way, the upper horizontal bar 3 and the lower horizontal bar 4 may be connected by multiple vertical bars 2 to form a parallel link. Vertical bar 2b refers to one of the multiple vertical bars 2 located at the end. Since vertical bar 2b is connected to the holding mechanism 5, it may have a different shape from vertical bar 2a. Furthermore, the vertical bar 2b may be configured as a retaining vertical bar provided on the lower side of the retaining mechanism 5.

[0021] Here, in Figure 1(a), the left side of the figure is designated as the H side, and the right side as the F side. The H side is the head side of the bed when the user is in bed, and is the side on which the headboard is installed. The F side is the foot side of the bed when the user is in bed, and is the side on which the footboard is installed. It is desirable that the side rail 1 be installed so that the holding mechanism 5 is on the F side, as shown in Figure 1(a). In general, the side rail 1 can also be installed on the bed in reverse, so the F side and H side are relative positions.

[0022] The holding mechanism 5 maintains the state of the vertical bar 2b. For example, when the holding mechanism 5 is locked (held), the vertical bar 2b is held upright. The vertical bar 2b is connected to the vertical bar 2a via the upper horizontal bar 3. Therefore, when the holding mechanism 5 maintains the upright state of the vertical bar 2b, the state of the vertical bar 2a is also maintained via the upper horizontal bar 3. In this way, the holding mechanism 5 can maintain the state of the entire vertical bar 2.

[0023] Furthermore, when the user releases the lock (holding state) of the holding mechanism 5, the vertical bar 2b rotates in the P direction around the lower horizontal bar 4. As the vertical bar 2b rotates in the P direction, the vertical bar 2a, which is connected by the upper horizontal bar 3, also rotates in the P direction. As a result, when the lock (holding state) of the holding mechanism 5 is released, the entire vertical bar 2 rotates in the P direction, allowing the side rail 1 to be folded.

[0024] Furthermore, the weight of the upper horizontal bar 3 causes the vertical bar 2 to fold in the P direction. In other words, when the lock of the holding mechanism 5 is released, the side rail 1 is folded. Also, the reason why the side rail 1 (vertical bar 2) folds due to the weight of the upper horizontal bar 3 is because the vertical bar 2 is bent.

[0025] Figure 1(b) shows the state when the side rail 1 is folded and the vertical rail 2 is in a collapsed state. At this time, the lock on the vertical rail 2 by the holding mechanism 5 is released, so the vertical rail 2 (upper horizontal rail 3) is rotatable. Therefore, when the user lifts the upper horizontal rail 3 (moving it in the direction of raising, opposite to the P direction), the vertical rail 2 returns to an upright position, and the holding mechanism 5 locks the vertical rail 2 when it returns to the state shown in Figure 1(a). In other words, the vertical rail 2 is maintained in an upright position in the state shown in Figure 1(a).

[0026] In this embodiment, the side rail 1 implements a two-stage locking mechanism. As will be described in detail later, it implements a first mechanism that locks the operation of the holding mechanism, and a second mechanism that locks the side rail 1 from tilting down or raising up, as shown in Figures 1(a) and 1(b).

[0027] [1.2 Vertical bars] Figure 2 shows the vertical support beam 2. Figure 2(a) is an external view of the vertical support beam 2, and Figure 2(b) is a cross-sectional view of the vertical support beam 2. Figure 3 is an enlarged view showing the vertical support beam 2 in a collapsed state. Figure 3(a) is an external view, and Figure 3(b) is a cross-sectional view.

[0028] The vertical bar 2 is rotatably connected to the connecting portion 32 of the upper horizontal bar 3 and to the connecting portion 21 of the vertical bar 2. In other words, the connecting portion 32 and the connecting portion 21 form a hinge structure (upper hinge). The position of this upper hinge is offset from the longitudinal central axis of the vertical bar 2 by the bending portion 256, which will be described later, thus creating an offset structure. That is, the rotation center of the hinge is located at a position offset from the longitudinal central axis of the vertical bar 2. Therefore, even if the vertical bar 2 is in a collapsed state, a gap will be created between the upper horizontal bar 3 and the vertical bar 2.

[0029] Furthermore, the vertical rail 2 is rotatably connected to the connecting portion 42 of the lower horizontal rail 4 and to the connecting portion 23 of the vertical rail 2. In other words, the connecting portion 42 and the connecting portion 23 form a hinge structure (lower hinge).

[0030] Here, the rotatable state is unidirectional from the upright state. For example, the vertical bar 2 is rotatable so as to tilt in direction F (it can rotate clockwise). Therefore, by lifting the upper horizontal bar 3 and the holding mechanism 5 from the tilted state, it rotates counterclockwise, and the side rail 1 transitions to the upright state.

[0031] The vertical support beam 2 has a bend 256 in the middle of it. Due to the bend 256, the vertical support beam 2 is bent towards the H side (left side in the drawing). For example, the upper part 252 of the vertical support beam 2, from the bend 256 to the connection part 21 with the upper horizontal support beam 3, is shaped inclined in the H direction in a front view. Also, the lower part 254 of the vertical support beam 2, from the bend 256 to the connection part 23 with the lower horizontal support beam 4, is shaped inclined in the F direction in a front view. Note that it is sufficient for both the upper part 252 and the lower part 254 to be bent together, so for example, either one may be configured vertically.

[0032] Furthermore, the height of the side rail 1 when folded can be reduced depending on the length of the lower part 254. For example, if the bent portion 256 is placed closer to the upper horizontal bar 3, the gap between the vertical bars 2 will be reduced, but the height of the side rail 1 can be reduced. On the other hand, if the bent portion 256 is placed closer to the lower horizontal bar 4, the gap between the vertical bars 2 can be widened.

[0033] Furthermore, the vertical bar 2 has a receiving portion 27 that protrudes from the lower horizontal bar 4 near the center of the vertical bar 2. The receiving portion 27 is provided on the H-side surface 25a of the vertical bar 2. Also, when the vertical bar 2 is in a fallen state, the receiving portion 27 abuts against the F-side surface 25b of the adjacent vertical bar 2. Here, the vertical bar 2 may have a recess (recess) in the position where the receiving portion 27 abuts, into which the receiving portion 27 fits. The receiving portion 27 fitting into the recess makes it difficult to grip with fingers and prevents it from coming off. Also, the upper part of the connecting portion 42 of the lower horizontal bar 4 may abut against the vertical bar 2.

[0034] Here, the vertical bar 2 may have recesses on both sides. The receiving portion 27 may be press-fitted into the recess on one side (for example, the upper side 25a when the vertical bar 2 is in a collapsed state). When the vertical bar 2 has recesses, the strength of the vertical bar 2 can be increased compared to, for example, drilling a through hole in the vertical bar 2 and providing the receiving portion 27 therein. The recesses may also be located near the position where the lower hinge makes contact. That is, the vertical bar 2 may have recesses at the position where the lower hinge, which is composed of connecting portions 23 and 42, makes contact.

[0035] The vertical bar 2 is formed in a roughly "V-shape" (in this embodiment, roughly an "inverted V-shape") as seen in the drawing. Due to this structure, for example, as shown in Figure 3, when the vertical bar 2 is in a collapsed state, the gap between the lower horizontal bar 4 and the vertical bar 2 narrows near the lower horizontal bar 4 of the side rail 1, and the gap between the upper horizontal bar 3 and the vertical bar 2 widens near the upper horizontal bar 3. That is, on the lower side 254, the gap between the lower horizontal bar 4 and the vertical bar 2 narrows, and in principle, there is no gap in which a user's fingers can get caught. Furthermore, even if there is a gap between the lower horizontal bar 4 and the vertical bar 2, the user can grasp the upper horizontal bar 3 while operating, so the gap is not within reach of the user's fingers, and the risk of the user's fingers getting caught is low. Also, on the upper side 252, a large gap is secured between the upper horizontal bar 3 and the vertical bar 2, which reduces the risk of the user's fingers getting caught.

[0036] [1.3 Retention mechanism] The retaining mechanism 5 will be described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Figure 4(a) is an external view of the retaining mechanism 5. The retaining mechanism 5 is preferably provided on one end of the side rail 1, and in this embodiment, it is provided on side F in Figure 1(a). Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4(a), the retaining mechanism 5 may also be covered by a cover over each of the components described below.

[0037] As will be explained in more detail later, the holding mechanism 5 locks the movement of the vertical bar 2 when it is in an upright position, thereby maintaining the upright position of the vertical bar 2. By holding the vertical bar 2 in an upright position, the upper horizontal bar 3 is held in its highest position.

[0038] Furthermore, the holding mechanism 5 has an opening 522 through which the lever 52 is rotatably exposed. The lever 52 has a hole that forms a gripping portion 52d, and the gripping portion 52d is located below the opening 522. When a user performing the operation puts their hand into this gripping portion 52d and grips the lever 52 upwards, the lock on the vertical bar 2 is released, and the vertical bar 2 and the upper horizontal bar 3 are no longer held.

[0039] In this way, the user's lever operation releases the lock on the vertical bar 2b of the holding mechanism 5, allowing the vertical bar 2 to move from its held upright position to a rotatable state. This allows the user to lower the vertical bar 2, causing the upper horizontal bar 3 to rotate downward clockwise and the side rail 1 to be folded.

[0040] Next, the configuration of the holding mechanism 5 will be described. Figure 4(b) is a cross-sectional view of Figure 4(a). Figures 4(a) and 4(b) show the state in which the user cannot operate the lever 52 due to the restricting member 51.

[0041] Figure 5(a) shows the state in which the restricting member 51 is released. At this time, the user can freely operate the lever 52. Figure 5(b) shows the state in which the lock state of the holding mechanism 5 has been released by the lever 52. Figure 5(c) shows the state in which the lock state is partially engaged. That is, although the holding mechanism 5 should be in the locked state (Figure 5(b)), the lock of the holding mechanism 5 has been released. The configuration and operation of the holding mechanism 5 will be explained below with reference to the figures as appropriate.

[0042] The holding mechanism 5 has an opening 522 in the middle that exposes the lever 52. The opening 522 exposes the lever 52, and the gripping portion 52d provided on the lever 52 can be operated by the user. The lever 52 is rotatable around a pivot point 54. Here, it is preferable to ensure that the opening 522 is as large as possible while satisfying the constraint of reducing the risk of neck pinching in the side rail when the bed mechanism is raised. The larger the size of the opening 522, the easier it is for the user to grip the lever 52 and perform more appropriate operation.

[0043] The lever 52 is rotatably connected to the pivot point 54 by the connecting part 52b. Furthermore, the pivot point 54 is rotatably connected to the vertical bar 2b, as will be described later. In other words, the lever 52 and the vertical bar 2b share a common pivot point.

[0044] The lever 52 is connected to the housing of the holding mechanism 5 via a spring 524. For example, in the view of the drawing, the spring 524 is connected to the upper side (upper crossbar 3 side) of the lever 52.

[0045] Furthermore, the lever 52 has a locking member on its lower side for restricting the movement of the vertical bar 2b. The locking member restricts the movement of the vertical bar 2 (vertical bar 2b), thereby maintaining the state of the vertical bar 2a and the upper horizontal bar 3. The locking member may be provided on the lower side of the lever 52. For example, as in this embodiment, it may be located on the lower side of the gripping portion 52d of the lever 52.

[0046] The locking member in this embodiment is a member that locks the holding mechanism 5 and the vertical bar 2b. For example, in Figure 4(b), the locking member has a spring 526, a connecting member 534, and a locking pin 536. The lever 52 is connected to the connecting member 534 via the spring 526.

[0047] Springs 524 and 526 may, for example, bias downwards in the view shown in the drawing. In this case, when the user grips the lever 52 upwards against the biasing force of the springs, the lever 52 rotates upwards. Then, when the user releases the lever 52 from their hand, the lever 52 rotates downwards (returns to its initial position) due to the biasing force of the springs.

[0048] The connecting member 534 is provided with a locking pin 536. For example, the connecting member 534 is a cylindrical member into which the locking pin 536 is fitted. The connecting member 534 is also engaged with the tip portion 52c of the lever 52. In this embodiment, the connecting member 534 and the locking pin 536 are configured separately, but they may be configured as a single unit.

[0049] The locking pin 536 is in a state where it can move up and down in conjunction with the operation of the lever 52. When the locking pin 536 advances into the hole 552 provided in the vertical bar 2b (moves downward in the view of the drawing), the locking pin 536 fits into the hole 552 and the holding mechanism 5 is locked. Also, when the lever 52 moves upward, the locking pin 536 retracts in conjunction with the lever 52 (moves upward in the view of the drawing). When the locking pin 536 disengages from the hole 552, the locking mechanism 5 and the vertical bar 2b is released. When the locking mechanism 5 and the vertical bar 2b are released, the vertical bar 2b can rotate freely. Therefore, the vertical bar 2, including the vertical bar 2a which is connected to the vertical bar 2b via the upper horizontal bar 3, rotates clockwise, and the upper horizontal bar 3 descends.

[0050] Furthermore, the pivot point 54 is connected to the lever 52 and the vertical rail 2b. As a result, the pivot point on one end of the lever 52 and the pivot point on the vertical rail 2b on the upper horizontal rail 3 side are the same. Conventionally, the pivot point of the lever 52 was in a different position from the pivot point of the vertical rail 2b. For example, by setting the pivot point of the lever 52 closer to the upper horizontal rail 3 on the vertical rail 2b, the overall length of the side rail 1 in the longitudinal direction can be shortened.

[0051] Furthermore, by making the pivot point on one end (side H) of the lever 52 the same as the pivot point on the upper horizontal bar 3 side of the vertical bar 2b, it became possible to miniaturize the overall structure of the holding mechanism 5. In addition, by positioning the lock pin 536 below the gripping portion 52d, it became possible to shorten the overall length of the holding mechanism 5 in the longitudinal direction.

[0052] Furthermore, the lock pin 536 is configured to be fitted into the connecting member 534. In this embodiment, it is necessary to lay out the lock pin 536 and the connecting member 534 between the lever 52 and the hole 552 in the vertical bar 2b. At this time, it is sufficient for the connecting member 534 and the lock pin 536 to have enough stroke to lock / unlock, so the lock pin 536 may be smaller than in conventional designs.

[0053] Furthermore, the lower side of the holding mechanism 5 may have a window 532 that indicates the operating state. The window 532 is configured so that a part of the connecting member 534 and / or the locking pin 536 is exposed. For example, by coloring the connecting member 534 and / or the locking pin 536, the user can visually confirm the state of the locking pin.

[0054] In other words, by looking at the window 532, the user can visually confirm the state of the lock pin 536 of the holding mechanism 5. For example, when the first color is shown in the window 532, the user can easily confirm that the lock pin 536 is in the advanced position. Also, when the second color is shown in the window 532, the user can easily confirm that the lock pin 536 is in the retracted position.

[0055] The holding mechanism 5 may be provided with a restricting member 51. The restricting member 51 restricts the movement of the lever 52. The restricting member 51 can slide laterally (in the HF direction) between holes 512 opened on the upper surface of the holding mechanism 5. When the restricting member 51 is positioned on the F side, the movement of the lever 52 is restricted.

[0056] Here, it is preferable that the regulating member 51 be positioned in a straight line with the upper crossbar 3. Since the regulating member 51 is positioned in a straight line with the upper crossbar 3, the upper crossbar 3 will be configured with a flat shape on its upper side.

[0057] For example, in the state shown in Figure 4(b), the restricting member 51 prevents the lever 52 from moving.

[0058] A spring 514 is connected to one end of the restricting member 51. The restricting member 51 is positioned on the F-direction side due to the biasing force of the spring 514 in the F-direction (to the right in the drawing). A part of the restricting member 51 (for example, the lower right end in the drawing) contacts the protruding portion 52a of the lever 52. The presence of the restricting member 51 restricts the upward movement of the lever 52, preventing the user from operating the lever 52. In other words, the lever 52 is restricted (locked).

[0059] In this embodiment, the restricting member 51 moves due to the biasing force of the spring 514 to lock the lever 52. An example is described in which the user releases the lock on the lever 52 by moving the restricting member 51 in the H direction against the biasing force of the spring. However, the lock and unlock state of the lever 52 may also be switched manually without using the spring 514.

[0060] Figure 5(a) shows the state when the restricting member 51 has moved in the H direction. When the restricting member 51 moves in the H direction (to the left in the view of the drawing), the restricting member 51 is no longer in contact with the protruding portion 52a of the lever 52.

[0061] With the member restricting the lever 52 removed, the user grasps the gripping portion 52d of the lever 52 and moves the lever 52 upward, transitioning to the state shown in Figure 5(b). As the lever 52 moves upward, the tip portion 52c also moves upward. This causes the lock pin 536 to retract via the connecting member 534 that was engaged with the tip portion 52c.

[0062] In other words, by rotating the lever 52 counterclockwise around the pivot point, the lock pin 536 retracts (moves upward in the drawing) and disengages from the hole 552. When the lock pin 536 disengages from the hole 552, the vertical bar 2 is released from its upright position. Therefore, the vertical bar 2 can be freely rotated by the user. For example, if the user rotates the upper horizontal bar 3 clockwise, the side rail 1 moves from an upright position to a folded position. In other words, the side rail 1 becomes folded.

[0063] Furthermore, when the vertical bar 2 is not in an upright position, if the user releases the lever 52, the lever 52 rotates downward due to the biasing force of the spring 524. In other words, the lever 52 returns to its initial state (when not being operated by the user). At this time, the lock pin 536 advances (moves downward in the drawing view) due to the biasing force of the spring 526.

[0064] In this case, if there is no hole 552 in the vertical bar 2 below the lock pin 536, the holding mechanism 5 cannot hold the vertical bar 2. In this case, the lock pin 536 is extended, but the vertical bar 2b (vertical bar 2 that is linked to vertical bar 2b) is in a state where it can rotate freely.

[0065] Furthermore, the vertical rail 2b may have an inclined portion 554. The inclined portion 554 forms a gently sloping surface from the hole 552 outward (outside the side rail 1). That is, it forms a continuous slope that gently descends from the hole 552 towards side F.

[0066] As described above, even when the lock pin 536 is not engaged in the hole 552, the tip of the lock pin is extended due to the biasing force of springs 524 and 526. When the user moves the side rail 1 to the upright position, the upper horizontal bar 3 (vertical bar 2) rotates counterclockwise.

[0067] After contacting the inclined portion 554, the locking pin 536 moves backward along the inclined surface (upward in the drawing) as the holding mechanism 5 moves counterclockwise. Then, when the locking pin 536 reaches the position of the hole 552, it moves to fit into the hole 552 due to the biasing force of springs 524 and 526.

[0068] In other words, the state transitions back to that shown in Figure 4(b), and the holding mechanism 5 can hold the vertical bar 2 in an upright position. It is preferable that the lock pin 536 has a curved tip, for example, so that it can move smoothly with the inclined portion 554.

[0069] Generally, the lock pin retracts continuously from the inclined portion 554 (moving upward in the drawing view), and when it reaches the position of the hole 552, the lock pin 536 advances into the hole 552. However, if the user does not raise the side rail 1 properly, the lock pin 536 may stop before it reaches the hole 552. In this case, the user may perceive the vertical rail 2 as being in an upright position and therefore locked by the holding mechanism 5, but the vertical rail 2 may become rotatable. This state of the lock pin 536 is called partial engagement.

[0070] Figure 5(c) shows the lock pin 536 in a partially engaged state. This indicates the state when the user rotates the holding mechanism 5 (upper horizontal bar 3) counterclockwise to move the vertical bar 2 from a collapsed state to an upright state, and the vertical bar 2 is almost in an upright position.

[0071] At this time, the vertical bar 2 and the holding mechanism 5 are in almost the same state as in Figure 4(b), but the lock pin 536 is not in a position where it is fitted into the hole 552. Therefore, the vertical bar 2 of the side rail 1 is not held in an upright position.

[0072] At this time, the window 532 is marked with an identifiable color or text indicating that the lock pin is retracted. This allows the user to confirm that the lock pin 536 is not extended by checking the color displayed in the window 532. The window 532 may also be marked with text or other symbols in addition to color.

[0073] [1.4 Effects, etc.] The above configuration can be expected to have the following effects. For example, the vertical bar 2 is positioned at an offset location where it connects to the upper horizontal bar 3. This creates a gap between the vertical bar 2 and the upper horizontal bar 3, which prevents users from getting their fingers caught.

[0074] Furthermore, by bending the vertical bar 2 midway, it is possible to lower the height (minimum height) of the side rail 1 when folded while still securing a gap between the upper horizontal bar 3 and the vertical bar 2. In addition, it is possible to lower the overall height compared to conventional designs. For example, the height of a conventional side rail when folded was about 176 mm, but with the side rail 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to achieve a height of approximately 130 mm. Here, the height of the side rail 1 is, for example, the length from the most protruding part at the top (for example, the position of the top of the holding mechanism 5) to the position of the bottom of the lower horizontal bar 4.

[0075] In particular, the holding mechanism 5 is positioned below the upper crossbar 3, resulting in a flat top surface for the upper crossbar 3. This ensures that when the side rail 1 is installed on the bed unit and folded, the top surface of the side rail 1 is below the mattress. Furthermore, the position of the holding mechanism 5 below the upper crossbar 3 eliminates any protrusions above the mattress.

[0076] Furthermore, when the vertical bar 2 has only one bent section 256, it takes on a simpler shape, which also has the effect of improving the design.

[0077] Furthermore, the user performing the operation can release the lock on the vertical rail 2 to the upright position by placing their hand inside the gripping part 52d and gripping the lever 52. When the lock on the holding mechanism 5 is released, the vertical rail 2b moves from the upright position to a rotatable state, and the vertical rail 2a also moves rotatably via the upper horizontal rail 3. As a result, the user can move the upper horizontal rail 3 downward by lowering the vertical rail 2, and thus fold the side rail 1.

[0078] The holding mechanism 5 has two locking mechanisms (double locking mechanism) by having a restricting member 51 and a lever 52. This prevents the user from unintentionally folding the side rail 1 (transitioning to a state where the vertical rail 2 can be rotated without realizing it).

[0079] Furthermore, the locking mechanism 51 can be released by moving it, for example, from direction F to direction H. This is the opposite direction to the direction in which the upper crossbar 3 is folded (from direction H to direction F). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the side rail from being unintentionally folded due to user error.

[0080] Furthermore, the holding mechanism 5 is molded to maximize the size of the opening 522. The larger opening 522 makes it easier for the user to grip the lever 52. In addition, the shape around the opening 522 covers the lever 52. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the user from inadvertently touching the lever 52 from the outside of the holding mechanism 5 (for example, from the bottom or right side of the holding mechanism 5).

[0081] Furthermore, as described above, the holding mechanism 5 can be locked to automatically maintain an upright position when the upper horizontal bar 3 or the holding mechanism 5 is lifted by the user from the folded state (vertical bar 2 is in a down position) and reaches a predetermined angle.

[0082] Furthermore, since the holding mechanism 5 has an inclined portion 554 on the vertical bar 2b, it is possible to suppress the state in which the lock pin 536 is only partially engaged. In addition, since the state of the lock pin 536 is displayed in the window portion 532, the user can easily visually check the state of the lock pin 536, etc. Therefore, even if the lock pin 536 is only partially engaged, the user can check it.

[0083] Furthermore, since the retaining mechanism 5 integrates the lever 52 and the rotation hinge of the vertical bar 2, the retaining mechanism 5 as a whole can be made smaller. Also, since the position of the lock pin 536 is located below the lever 52, the retaining mechanism 5 can be made smaller compared to conventional designs. In addition, by making the lock pin 536 smaller, the retaining mechanism 5 can be made smaller.

[0084] Furthermore, a concave shape is formed in the middle of the vertical bar 2. This concave shape allows the receiving part 27 to be press-fitted, resulting in a configuration that is difficult to grip with fingers.

[0085] [2. Second Embodiment] The second embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 6. The side rail 1a of the second embodiment is a side rail in which the upper horizontal bar 3 can be divided into left and right (H direction, F direction). Components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and this embodiment will only describe the differences from the above-described embodiment.

[0086] Figure 6(a) shows the normal state (vertical rails are held in an upright position), and Figure 6(b) shows the state where the side rails are folded (vertical rails are in a collapsed position). In this embodiment, the upper horizontal rail 3 is divided at one point. For example, in Figure 6(a), the upper horizontal rail 3a is on the H side (left side in the drawing) of the side rail 1a, and the upper horizontal rail 3b is on the F side (right side in the drawing) of the side rail 1a.

[0087] Furthermore, multiple vertical bars 2a1 are placed parallel to each other between the upper horizontal bar 3a and the lower horizontal bar 4a. Also, multiple vertical bars 2a2 are placed parallel to each other between the upper horizontal bar 3b and the lower horizontal bar 4a.

[0088] Figure 6(b) shows the vertical bar 2 in a collapsed state. As shown in Figure 6(b), the upper horizontal bar 3a (vertical bar 2a1) can transition to a collapsed state by rotating counterclockwise from an upright position. Similarly, the upper horizontal bar 3b (vertical bar 2a2) can be displaced to a collapsed state by rotating clockwise from an upright position.

[0089] Furthermore, the orientation of vertical bars 2 is different from that of vertical bars 2a1 and 2a2. That is, vertical bars 2 should be inclined upwards from the bend towards the upper horizontal bars 3a and 3b when the rail is in a collapsed state. Therefore, vertical bars 2a1 and 2a2 are arranged so as to be symmetrical with respect to the center of the side rail 1 when viewed from the front. Note that symmetry here means that the shapes of vertical bars 2a1 and 2a2 are symmetrical with respect to a line. For example, the number of vertical bars 2a1 and 2a2 may be different. For example, in Figure 6, there are more vertical bars 2a1 on the H side than there are more vertical bars 2a2 on the F side.

[0090] Compared to the first embodiment, the side rail 1a (upper horizontal rail 3) is divided, which makes it possible to partially fold the side rail 1a, for example. For example, when the side rail 1a is attached to the bed device, staff can fold only the head-side vertical rail 2a1 and the upper horizontal rail 3a when providing nursing care.

[0091] [3. Third Embodiment] The third embodiment is a side rail 1c in which the shape of the vertical bar 2 is changed to vertical bar 2c compared to the first embodiment. Components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and this embodiment will only describe the differences from the above-described embodiment.

[0092] Figure 7 is a front view of the side rail 1c. Figure 7(a) shows the side rail 1c in its normal state (vertical support 2c in the upright position). Figure 7(b) shows the side rail 1c in the folded state (vertical support 2c in the reclined position).

[0093] Here, the shape of the vertical bar 2c is shown in Figure 8. Figure 8 is an external view of the vertical bar 2c. The vertical bar 2c has three bends, 256a, 256b, and 256c, along its length. For example, the section from bend 256a to bend 256b is inclined towards the H side (upward when the vertical bar 2c is in a fallen position) compared to the section from the connecting section 23 to bend 256a. Similarly, the section from bend 256c to connecting section 21 is inclined towards the H side (upward when the vertical bar 2c is in a fallen position) compared to the section from bend 256b to bend 256c. Thus, the vertical bar 2c is inclined towards the H side from the connecting section 23 towards the connecting section 21, similar to the vertical bar 2 in the first embodiment, but it differs in that it has multiple bends. In this embodiment, there are three bends, but more may be provided.

[0094] Furthermore, as described in the first embodiment, the vertical bar 2b may have a receiving portion 27 which is a projection for receiving the parallel vertical bar 2c, or a recess for receiving the receiving portion 27, or it may have different receiving members.

[0095] For example, Figure 9(a) is an external view (enlarged view) of the vertical support beam 2c when it is in a collapsed state, and Figure 9(b) is a cross-sectional view of Figure 9(a).

[0096] Here, the vertical bar 2c is provided with a receiving portion 27a near the bent portion 256b, for example. The receiving portion 27a has a structure such as that shown in Figure 9(c), and can be fixed by sandwiching the vertical bar 2c between a lid member 27a1 and a base member 27a2.

[0097] Here, for example, as shown in Figure 9(c), when the receiving portion 27a is attached to the vertical bar 2c1, when the vertical bar 2c is in a collapsed state, the upper surface (lid member 27a1) comes into contact with one surface of the adjacent vertical bar 2c2. Also, the lower surface (base member 27a2) comes into contact with one surface of the adjacent vertical bar 2c3 or the connecting portion 42.

[0098] In other words, the vertical load can be distributed by the receiving portion 27a contacting the adjacent vertical bar 2c. Furthermore, if the receiving portion 27a is also provided closer to the lower horizontal bar 4, the distance from the lower horizontal bar 4 to the receiving portion 27a is shortened, and the moment arm with respect to the vertical load is shortened.

[0099] Furthermore, the receiving portion 27a may be constructed by, for example, drilling a hole in the vertical beam 2c and fitting it into that position. Figure 10 shows an example when the receiving portion 27b is provided. Figure 10(a) is an external view (enlarged view) when the vertical beam 2c is in a collapsed state, and Figure 10(b) is a cross-sectional view of Figure 10(a).

[0100] Here, as shown in Figure 10(c), a hole may be made in a part of the vertical bar 2c and a receiving portion 27b may be provided therein. The receiving portion 27b may be provided such that the vertical bar 2c is sandwiched between, for example, a lid member 27b1 and a base member 27b2.

[0101] [4. Fourth Embodiment] The fourth embodiment is an embodiment in which a contact member 34 is provided at the connecting portion 32 of the upper horizontal bar 3, compared to the first embodiment. Components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and this embodiment will only describe the differences from the embodiments described above.

[0102] Figure 11 is an enlarged view of the state of the connecting portion 32. Here, the connecting portion 32 has a contact member 34 that is coaxial with the connecting portion 32 of the upper horizontal bar 3 and the connecting portion 21 of the vertical bar 2.

[0103] The contact member 34 is the member that contacts the vertical rail 2 when it is in a collapsed state. As a result, the hinge of the upper horizontal rail 3 comes into contact with the vertical rail 2, making it possible to distribute the vertical load.

[0104] Furthermore, when the side rail 1 is folded, the presence of the contact member 34 creates a gap between the vertical rail 2 and the upper horizontal rail 3. This gap prevents users from pinching their fingers when folding the side rail 1.

[0105] [5. Fifth Embodiment] The fifth embodiment is an embodiment in which the holding mechanism 5 described in the first embodiment is replaced with the holding mechanism 5a shown in Figures 12 and 13. Components common to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and this embodiment will only describe the differences from the embodiments described above.

[0106] Figure 12(a) is an external view of the holding mechanism 5a of this embodiment, and Figure 12(b) is a cross-sectional view of the holding mechanism 5a. Figure 12(b) shows that the operation of the lever 56 is locked by the restricting member 51. Figure 13(a) shows that the lock state of the restricting member 51 has been released and the lever 56 is operable. Figure 13(b) shows that the vertical bar 2 is released from being held in an upright position when the lever 56 moves upward.

[0107] The holding mechanism 5a of this embodiment is modified by replacing the lever 52 of the holding mechanism 5 described in Figure 1 with a lever 56.

[0108] The lever 56 is locked in place when its end portion 56a contacts the restricting member 51. In other words, when the restricting member 51 slides towards the H side, the restricting member 51 that restricts the end portion 56a is no longer positioned above the end portion 56a, allowing the lever 56 to rotate freely.

[0109] Here, the center of rotation of the lever 56 is the central part 56c. That is, when the user grips the lever 56, it rotates clockwise around the central part 56c as the center of rotation. When the lever 56 rotates, the projection 56b moves upward.

[0110] The projection 56b is fitted into the hole 538a formed at the top of the locking member 538. The locking member 538 also has a projection 538b at its lower end. The projection 538b is fitted into the hole 552 formed in the vertical bar 2b. For example, in Figures 12(b) and 13(a), the vertical bar 2 is held upright because the projection 538b is fitted into the hole 552.

[0111] When the user grips the lever 56 upward, the lever 56 rotates clockwise around the central part 56c. As the lever 56 rotates clockwise, the projection 56b also moves upward in conjunction. Consequently, the hole 538a into which the projection 56b is fitted also moves upward in conjunction.

[0112] When the hole 538a rises, the locking member 538 also rises. As the locking member 538 rises, the protruding portion 538b of the locking member 538 moves away from the hole 552. As a result, the vertical bar 2b releases the locking state of the locking member 538 that was holding the vertical bar 2, allowing the upper horizontal bar 3 and the vertical bar 2a (i.e., the vertical bar 2) to rotate freely.

[0113] Furthermore, the side rails of all the embodiments described above faced the following constraints during the design and development stages. The side rails of the embodiments described above overcome these constraints while providing a side rail 1 that is highly convenient for the user.

[0114] (Constraint 1) In order to maintain a flat shape relative to the upper horizontal bar and to reduce the minimum height when folded, it was difficult to extend the holding mechanism 5 upwards in the drawing view.

[0115] (Constraint 2) The requirements for preventing neck pinching of the bed device and side rails as stipulated in the IEC international standard had to be met. Therefore, it was difficult to extend the holding mechanism 5 to the right in the view of the drawing.

[0116] [6. Variant] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible. In other words, embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified within the scope of the gist of this disclosure are also included in the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0117] Furthermore, although the embodiments described above are explained separately for the sake of explanation, they can be combined and implemented to the extent possible. In addition, we intend to obtain rights to any of the technologies described in this specification through amendments or divisional applications.

[0118] The scope of this disclosure is not limited to the configurations explicitly described in the specification, but also includes combinations of the technologies disclosed herein. While the configurations for which patent protection is sought are described in the attached claims, there is no intention to exclude them from the technical scope simply because they are not described in the claims.

[0119] Furthermore, the phrases "in the case of..." and "when..." in the above-mentioned specification are merely illustrative examples and do not represent a configuration limited to those described. Even configurations other than those described are disclosed to the extent that they would be obvious to a person skilled in the art, and the company intends to acquire rights to them.

[0120] Furthermore, the descriptions of the processes and data flows described in the specification are not limited to the order in which they are described. For example, configurations in which parts of the process are deleted or the order is rearranged are also disclosed, and the company intends to acquire rights to them. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0121] 1 Side rail 2 vertical bars 21, 23 Connection part 27 Receiving Department 3 Upper horizontal bar 4 Lower crossbar 5 Retention mechanism 51 Regulating member 52 Lever 522 Opening 532 Window section 54 pivot point 534 Connecting Member 536 Locking pin 552 holes 6. Protrusion

Claims

1. A lower crossbar and an upper crossbar that can be attached to the side frame of the bed, Multiple vertical bars are attached so as to be able to stand up and fall over, bridging the lower horizontal bar and the upper horizontal bar, A holding mechanism capable of holding one of the aforementioned multiple vertical bars in an upright position, It has, The vertical crossbar has a bent portion and a receiving portion between the bent portion and the lower horizontal crossbar. The vertical bar has a shape such that when the vertical bar is in a collapsed state, the side facing the direction of collapse at the bent portion becomes convex. The receiving portion abuts against an adjacent vertical beam when the vertical beam is in a collapsed state. The holding mechanism is located at one end of the upper horizontal bar and includes a lever for releasing the vertical bar from being held in an upright position. The pivot point of the lever and the pivot point at which the first vertical bar rotates relative to the upper horizontal bar are the same. When the holding mechanism releases the holding position of the first vertical bar, the first vertical bar collapses, causing the upper horizontal bar to rotate so as to fold toward the lower horizontal bar.

2. The side rail according to claim 1, wherein the vertical rail further has a recess at the position where the receiving portion of the vertical rail abuts, the receiving portion of an adjacent vertical rail abuts against it.

3. Below the lever, there is a locking member that holds the vertical bar in an upright position. The side rail according to claim 1.

4. The locking member is It has a locking pin that can move vertically, The holding mechanism holds the first vertical bar in an upright position by fitting the lock pin into a hole provided in the first vertical bar. Even when the vertical crossbar is in a collapsed state, the holding mechanism is located below the upper horizontal crossbar, and the upper surface of the upper horizontal crossbar remains flat. The side rail according to claim 3.

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