A bed

Abstract

A bed (10) comprising a frame (12) and a mattress support platform (14) configured to support, preferably directly support, an associated mattress and occupant(s), in which the mattress support platform (14) is laterally adjustable relative to the frame (12) between a retracted position and an extended position having a lateral width (WE) greater than a lateral width (WR) in the retracted position.

Description

[0001] A BED

[0002] The present invention relates to a bed, in particular to a bed which can be adjusted between different widths to accommodate different width mattresses.

[0003] Known beds are supplied in different widths to accommodate different mattress sizes, for example, single, double, king and super-king mattress sizes.

[0004] A problem which such known beds is that a high number of stock keeping units (SKUs) corresponding to different bed widths are needed to ensure a customer can purchase a bed of the required size. In the aforementioned example, four SKUs would be required for beds which can accommodate single, double, king and super-king mattress sizes with the appropriate amount of storage space then required to store those SKUs.

[0005] A further problem which such known beds relates to transportation logistics. In particular, and for example, a bed which can accommodate a super-king size mattress requires more space in a vehicle than a bed which can accommodate a king size mattress. The increased space requirement results in an increased transportation cost since one of the factors which dictates transportation costs is container size. The increased space requirement also prevents most consumers from collecting the bed in their own vehicle due to the restricted space available in non-commercial vehicles, and therefore those consumers are obliged to have their beds delivered, with the associated delivery costs adding to the overall purchase price of the bed, as well as the inconvenience of having to wait for delivery.

[0006] An object of the present invention is therefore to provide a bed which overcomes or at least mitigates the aforementioned problems associated with known beds.

[0007] Thus, according to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a bed comprising a frame and a mattress support platform configured to support an associated mattress and occupant(s), in which the mattress support platform is laterally adjustable relative to the frame between a retracted position and an extended position having a lateral width greater than a lateral width in the retracted position. Advantageously, providing a bed that can be adjusted to different lateral widths enables a significant reduction in the number of SKUs as one SKU can be used with different size mattresses. Furthermore, a single and reduced packaging size can be used for each SKU. The reduced packaging size results in lower transportation costs, and the possibility of consumers collecting the bed in their own vehicles.

[0008] Preferably, the mattress support platform comprises one, preferably a plurality of discrete mattress support elements. Providing a support platform comprising a plurality of discrete mattress support elements enables the support platform to be packaged in smaller packaging that if it were a single piece platform, and then assembled for display purposes at a store or at the customer end use location.

[0009] Preferably, the mattress support platform comprises one, preferably a plurality of discrete mattress support elements. Providing a support platform comprising a plurality of discrete mattress support elements enables the support platform to be packaged in smaller packaging that if it were a single piece platform, and then assembled for display purposes at a store or at the customer end use location.

[0010] Preferably, the mattress support platform comprises a plurality of mattress support sections, in which at least one of the plurality of mattress support sections is pivotally mounted with respect to another of the plurality of mattress support sections for relative angular adjustment. That is, the bed is an angularly adjustable bed which can be moved between a fully flat position, typically the position in which an occupant sleeps, and a fully raised position, typically the position which an occupant might read or watch television, and all the partially raised positions inbetween the fully flat and fully raised positions. Advantageously, providing a bed which can be angularly adjusted according to an occupant’s requirements, and adjusted in width to accommodate different sized mattresses, further reduces the number of SKUs needed. Alternatively the bed can be a non-angularly adjustable bed but still benefit from the lateral width adjustment.

[0011] Preferably, at least two, preferably all adjacent mattress support sections are pivotally connected to each other. Preferably , the mattress support sections comprise one or more of a seat support section, a back support section, a mattress bend support section, a thigh support section and a foot support section.

[0012] Preferably, the seat support section is fixed relative to the frame, or to an intermediate support carriage which is translationally moveable relative to the frame, preferably fixed to the frame or the intermediate support carriage such that the seat support section cannot move pivotally (angularly) or translationally (in the longitudinal direction) relative to the frame or the intermediate support carriage.

[0013] Preferably, the mattress bend support section is positioned between the seat support section and the back support section or between the thigh support section and the back support section if the bed does not have a seat support section.

[0014] Preferably, at least one, preferably each of the plurality of mattress support sections includes at least one of the plurality of mattress support elements.

[0015] Preferably, at least one of the plurality of mattress support elements is independently laterally movable relative to the other mattress support elements.

[0016] Preferably, each of the mattress support sections further comprise a pair of side members rigidly connected to each other by one or more of the mattress support elements.

[0017] Preferably, the mattress support elements comprise a central support section, and an extending support section, in which the extending support section is movable, preferably slidingly movable relative to the central support section to support the mattress in the extended position. Alternatively, the extending support sections can be foldingly (vertically or horizontally) movable between the retracted and extended positions. As another alternative, the extending support sections may also be attachable, preferably releasably, to the central support section to configure the mattress support platform in the retracted and extended positions. Preferably, the movement between the extending support section and the central support section is telescopic movement.

[0018] Preferably, the central support section is defined by a non-continuous or open cross- sectional profile.

[0019] Preferably, the extending support section is supported by, preferably vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the central support section when in the extended position, preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the central support section, preferably inserted inside the central support section.

[0020] The extending support section can optionally be longitudinally constrained by the central support section when in the extended position.

[0021] Preferably, the extending support section at least partially, preferably fully overlaps in the lateral direction with the central support section in the retracted position.

[0022] Preferably, the extending support section at least partially, preferably fully overlaps in the lateral direction with the central support section in the extended position.

[0023] Preferably, the extending support section is cantilevered when in the extended position such that the mattress and occupant(s) load is supported by the cantilevered extending support section.

[0024] Preferably, the extending support section comprises a first extending support section and a second extending support section in which the first extending support section is movably extendable from the central support section in a first direction, the second extending support section is movably extendable from the central support section in a second direction, the second direction is opposite to the first direction, to support the mattress in the extended position.

[0025] Typically, the cantilevered distance is at least 1015mm, divided equally between the first and second extending support sections. Preferably, the first extending support section is supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the second extending support section when in the extended position, preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within second extending support section, preferably inserted inside the second extending support section when in the extended position. The first extending support section can optionally be longitudinally constrained by the second extending support section when in the extended position.

[0026] Preferably, the first extending support section is interlocked with the second extending support section when in the retracted position, preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within second extending support section, preferably inserted inside the second extending support section when in the retracted position. The first extending support section can optionally be longitudinally constrained by the second extending support section when in the retracted position.

[0027] Preferably, the first and the second extending support section are supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the central support section, preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the central support section, preferably inserted inside the central support section when in the extended position. The first and second extending support sections can optionally be longitudinally constrained by the central support section in the extended position.

[0028] Preferably, the first and the second extending support section are supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the central support section, preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the central support section, preferably inserted inside the central support section when in the retracted position. The first and second extending support sections can optionally be longitudinally constrained by the central support section in the retracted position.

[0029] Preferably, the first extending support section at least partially overlaps with the second extending support section in the lateral direction when in the extended position. Preferably, the first extending support section at least partially, preferably fully overlaps with the second extending support section in the lateral direction when in the retracted position.

[0030] Preferably, the first extending support section, the second support extending section and the central support section are arranged on a common lateral axis in both the extended and retracted positions.

[0031] Preferably, the bed further comprises a support section such as a sleeve, in which the support section and the second extending support section have a substantially identical cross-sectional profile shape and size such that the sleeve and the second extending support section locate inside the central support section.

[0032] Advantageously, the same section, for example an extruded section, can be used for sleeve and the second extending support section, enabling the first extending support section to be supported by the central support section via the sleeve, the first extending support section to be supported by the second extending support section, and the second extending support section to be supported directly by the central support section.

[0033] Preferably, the first extending support section locates inside the support section and the second extending support section the retracted position.

[0034] Preferably, the first extending support section is supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the support section, preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the support section, preferably inserted inside the support section when in the retracted position, and the second extending support section is supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the central support section, preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the central support section, preferably inserted inside the central support section when in the retracted position.

[0035] Preferably, the first extending support section is supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the support section, preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the support section, preferably inserted inside the support section when in the extended position, and the second extending support section is supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the central support section, preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the central support section, preferably inserted inside the central support section when in the extended position.

[0036] Preferably, the first extending support section comprises an inner support section and an outer support section, and the second extending support section comprises an inner support section and an outer support section, in which the inner support sections are movable, preferably slidingly movable relative to the outer support sections to support the mattress in the extended position.

[0037] Preferably, the frame is laterally adjustable between a frame retracted position and a frame extended position.

[0038] Preferably, the frame includes a left side rail and a right side rail, in which the left and right side rails are laterally adjustable relative to each other to adjust the frame between the frame retracted position and the frame extended position.

[0039] Preferably, the frame includes a head end rail and a foot end rail, the head end rail and the foot end rail are laterally extendable, preferably the head end rail and the foot end rail comprise a fixed central section and two extending, in which the two extending sections are laterally adjustable relative to the fixed central section to adjust the frame between the frame retracted position and the frame extended position.

[0040] Preferably, the head end rail and the foot end rails moves the left side rail and the right side rail in a lateral direction.

[0041] Preferably, the frame includes a left and a right side rail, a head end rail and a foot end rail, in which in the extended position, the head end rail and the foot end rail have a lateral width greater than a lateral width defined by a lateral distance between the left and right side rails. Preferably, at least one of the mattress support elements is mounted, preferably pivotally mounted, on the support section for relative support element adjustment, preferably angular and / or linear adjustment, relative to an adjacent mattress support element positioned on the at least one mattress support section, preferably the back support section, between flat and raised positions.

[0042] Advantageously, angular adjustment of the individual support elements between flat and raised positions provides further adjustment to enable the occupant to be comfortably supported, in addition to the angular adjustment of the mattress support section containing those support elements relative the frame of the bed.

[0043] Preferably, at least one of the mattress support elements is rotatable relative to an adjacent mattress support element independently of the relative support section angular adjustment of the plurality of mattress support sections.

[0044] Preferably, the central support section and the first and second extending support sections have a rounded edge which cooperates with the associated mattress when the mattress support elements are adjusted between flat and raised positions and / or between retracted and extended position. By providing rounded edges, there is a reduced likelihood of the associated mattress snagging or catching on the central support section and the first and second extending support sections.

[0045] Preferably, at least one of the mattress support elements is at least one of a neck support slat and a lumbar support slat.

[0046] Preferably, the support element angular adjustment of the neck support slat is moveable, preferably rotatable relative to the adjacent mattress support element independently of the support element adjustment of the lumbar support slat.

[0047] Preferably, each of the mattress support sections further comprise a pair of side members rigidly connected to each other by one or more of the mattress support elements, in which at least one of the mattress support elements pivotally mounted on the support section for support element adjustment relative to the adjacent mattress support element positioned on the at least one mattress support section is pivotally mounted to the side member.

[0048] Preferably, the bed further comprises a neck support actuator to effect support element adjustment of the neck support slat in which the neck support actuator is pivotally mounted at a first end to the adjacent mattress support element and at a second to the neck support slat such that relative movement between the first and second end of the neck support actuator rotates the neck support slat relative to the fixed slat between a flat and a raised position.

[0049] Preferably, the bed further comprises a lumbar support actuator to effect support element angular adjustment of the lumbar support slat, in which the lumbar support actuator is pivotally mounted at a first end to the adjacent mattress support element and at a second to the lumbar support slat such that relative movement between the first and second end of the lumbar support actuator rotates the adjustable lumbar support slat relative to the fixed slat between a flat and a raised position.

[0050] Preferably, the first end of the lumbar support actuator and the first end of the neck support actuator are pivotally mounted to a common mattress support element, preferably the common mattress support element is positioned between the lumbar support slat and the neck support slat.

[0051] Preferably, the frame further comprising a plurality of legs to support the frame above a surface upon which the bed sits, in which at least two of the plurality of legs on opposing lateral sides of the bed include outwardly and laterally extending portions positioned at their lower free end to support a load applied to the bed.

[0052] Preferably, the frame further comprising a plurality of legs to support the frame above a surface upon which the bed sits, in which the plurality of legs remain stationary when the mattress support platform moves between a retracted position and an extended position. Preferably, each of the first and second extending sections has a free outboard end, in which outboard ends of adjacent extending support sections are pivotally connected to each other by a linkage.

[0053] Preferably, the retracted position is one or more retracted positions and the extended position is one or more extended positions. Typically the minimum retracted position is 750mm up to an extended position of 1950mm.

[0054] Preferably, the retracted position corresponds to a first bed width which can support a mattress having a first width, preferably 3 foot, and the extended position corresponds to a second bed width which can support a 4 foot or 5 foot or 6 foot or 6 foot 4 inch mattress, or the retracted position corresponds to a first bed width which can support a 4 foot mattress and the extended position corresponds to a second bed width which can accommodate a 5 foot or 6 foot or 6 foot 4 inch mattress, or the retracted position corresponds to a bed width which can support a 5 foot mattress and the extended position corresponds to a second bed width which can support a 6 foot or 6 foot 4 inch mattress.

[0055] Preferably, the mattress support platform move rearwards towards a head end of the bed when the back support section is raised, and moves forwards towards a foot end of the bed when the back support section is lowered.

[0056] Preferably, the mattress support platform is angularly movably mounted on an intermediate support carriage, the intermediate support carriage being movably mounted on or in relation to the frame of the bed for translational movement with respect to the frame of the bed when the back support section is raised or lowered.

[0057] Preferably, the mattress support platform is angularly movably mounted on an intermediate support carriage, the intermediate support carriage being movably mounted on or in relation to the frame of the bed for translational movement with respect to the frame of the bed when the back support section is raised or lowered.

[0058] This desirable zero-wall functionality ensures that the occupant's position is maintained with respect to adjacent bedside furniture when the back support section is raised and lowered. This zero-wall functionality is achieved by fixing the mattress support platform section to the intermediate carriage which is slidingly movable in a track of the frame of the bed such that the mattress support platform move rearwards towards the head end of the bed when the back support section is raised, and moves forwards towards the foot end of the bed when the back support section is lowered. An example of such a zero-wall bed is described in WO2015071624.

[0059] Preferably, each of the first and second extending sections has a free outboard end, the bed further comprising a cover, preferably a unitary cover secured to the free ends of each of the first and second extending sections such that the cover substantially covers the mattress support platform, in which the cover is configured to expand as the bed moves between the retracted position and the extended position, preferably the cover is folded in the retracted position and unfolded in the extended position, preferably the cover is a foam cover or a fabric cover.

[0060] Preferably, a gap Ds is defined between adjacent mattress support elements, in which the gap Ds is equal or less than 100mm.

[0061] Preferably, the plurality of discrete mattress support elements is a number of mattress support elements, the number and longitudinal width DSA of the mattress support elements configured such that the gap Ds between adjacent mattress support elements is substantially equal or less than 100mm.

[0062] Preferably, the mattress support elements have a longitudinal width DSA of at least 75mm, preferably at least 100mm.

[0063] Preferably, a gap Ds is defined between adjacent mattress support elements, each of the mattress support elements have a longitudinal width DSA, in which a total area of the mattress support elements in contact with an associated mattress is equal to or greater than a total area defined between a gap Ds between the mattress support elements and in contact with the associated mattress such that the mattress support elements support the associated mattress. Preferably, a longitudinal width DSA width of each mattress support element is greater than a gap Ds defined between adjacent mattress support elements.

[0064] Preferably, the mattress support elements each have a substantially equal longitudinal width DSA.

[0065] Preferably, the gap Ds between each adjacent mattress support element is substantially equal.

[0066] Preferably, a pivotal connection point PP between adjacent mattress support sections substantially coincides with a longitudinal mid-point MP defined half-way between adjacent mattress support elements in a longitudinal direction of the bed, in which the mid-point PP is substantially half the gap Ds defined between each adjacent mattress support element. By positioning the pivotal connection point at the mid point of the gap between adjacent mattress support elements, an associated mattress is subjected to less crushing when adjacent mattress support sections are angularly adjusted relative to each other.

[0067] Preferably, a pivotal connection point PP between adjacent mattress support sections is vertically positioned in an envelope E defined between an upper UP and a lower LO external surface of the mattress support element.

[0068] Preferably, each side member includes an aperture or cut-out to enable the extending support section to move laterally between retracted and extended positions.

[0069] Preferably, the mattress support elements comprise a curved upper surface UP which is engageable with an associated mattress.

[0070] Preferably, the mattress support elements have a partially oval cross-section.

[0071] Preferably, the central support section is an aluminium extrusion, and the extending support section is a plastic moulding. According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided an article of adjustable furniture, preferably a bed, comprising at least one support section, an actuator operable to effect movement, preferably pivotal, of the at least one support section, and at least a first and a second component pivotally joined by a bearing assembly, the bearing assembly comprising a bearing, a bush assembly, and a fastener, the bearing having an inner and outer race rotationally moveable relative to each other, the outer race is rotationally fixed relative to the second component, in which the first component is rotationally fixed to the inner race and the bush assembly by the fastener, such that operation of the actuator causes relative movement between the inner and outer race to cause pivotal movement between the first and second components so as to effect movement of the at least one support section.

[0072] Advantageously, the bearing assembly provides a means by which the first and second components of the bed can be easily assembled onto the bed and allow relative rotational movement therebetween. The provision of an inner and outer race significantly reduces the friction when compared to a conventional hole and pin type arrangements used on known articles of adjustable furniture during rotational movement of the first and second components, and enables the use of lowered powered actuators.

[0073] Preferably, the first component is rotationally fixed to the inner race and the bush assembly by axially clamping the first component to the bush assembly and the inner race, preferably axially clamping at least part of the bush assembly between the first component and the inner race.

[0074] Preferably, the bush assembly is a first bush.

[0075] Preferably, the bush assembly is a first bush and a second bush.

[0076] Preferably, the first and / or second bush includes a first axially inward projection which cooperates with the second component to limit lateral movement of the second component. Preferably, the first and / or second bush includes a second axially inward projection which engages with the inner race to rotationally fix the inner race and the bush assembly to the first component.

[0077] Preferably, the first axially inward projection is positioned radially outboard of the second axially inward projection.

[0078] Preferably, the fastener comprises a nut and a bolt, in which the bush assembly is clamped between the nut and the bolt and the first component is clamped between the bush assembly and one of the nut or the bolt.

[0079] Preferably, the bed further comprises a washer positioned between one of the nut or the bolt and the bush assembly.

[0080] Preferably, one of the plurality of mattress support sections includes the first component, and an adjacent support section of the plurality of mattress support sections includes the second component, or a frame of the bed includes the second component, or a first connecting means connecting one of the mattress support sections to a frame of the bed includes the second component, or a second connecting means connecting the first connecting means to one of the mattress support sections includes the second component.

[0081] Preferably, the bed further comprises a second bearing assembly, the second bearing assembly comprising a second bearing, and a second bush assembly, the second bearing having an inner and outer race rotationally moveable relative to each other, the outer race is rotationally fixed relative to a third component, in which the third component is rotationally fixed to the inner race and the second bush assembly of the second bearing assembly by the fastener, and the bush assembly of the second bearing assembly is rotationally fixed relative to the bush assembly of the first bearing assembly by the fastener, such that operation of the actuator causes relative movement between the inner and outer race of the first bearing assembly and relative movement between the inner and outer race of the second bearing assembly to cause pivotal movement between the first, second and third components so as to effect movement of the at least one support section. Preferably, the bed further comprises a fastener washer positioned axially between the second bush assembly and the nut or bolt of the fastener.

[0082] Preferably, the bed further comprises a bearing washer positioned axially between the first bush of the second bush assembly and the second bush of the first bush assembly.

[0083] Preferably, the frame comprises a first section and a second section, the first and second sections pivotally attached using a hinge such that the first and second sections can be moved between an assembled position and a folded position.

[0084] Preferably, the first section has a lower surface, and the second section has a lower surface, in which the lower surfaces face each other, preferably engage with each other when in the folded position.

[0085] Preferably, each of the mattress support sections is releasably attachable to the frame of the bed, thereby enabling the mattress support sections to be packaged more compactly and assembled onto the frame at a customer’s location.

[0086] Preferably, each of the mattress support sections is releasably pivotally connectable to an adjacent mattress support section, thereby enabling the mattress support sections to be packaged more compactly and connected to each other at a customer’s location.

[0087] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a bed comprising a frame and a mattress support platform configured to support an associated mattress and occupant(s), in which the mattress support platform is laterally adjustable between a retracted position and an extended position having a lateral width greater than a lateral width in the retracted position.

[0088] The present invention also relates to an assembly of any of the aforementioned beds and a mattress. The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which;

[0089] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a bed according to a first embodiment of the present invention in a retracted position,

[0090] Figure 2 is a side view of the bed of Figure 1 ,

[0091] Figure 3 is a plan view of the bed of Figure 1 ,

[0092] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 1 in an extended position,

[0093] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of part of the bed of Figure 1 ,

[0094] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective and sectional view of the part of the bed of Figure 1 in an extended position,

[0095] Figure 7 is a side sectional view of part of the bed of Figure 1 ,

[0096] Figure 8 is a perspective view of part of the bed of Figure 1 ,

[0097] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 1 in an extended position,

[0098] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 1 in a retracted position with some parts removed,

[0099] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 1 in an extended position with some parts removed,

[0100] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a bed according to a second embodiment of the present invention in a part-raised and a retracted position,

[0101] Figures 13 to 20 are perspective views of part of the bed of Figure 12, Figure 21 is a perspective view of a first and a second bearing assembly of the bed of

[0102] Figure 12,

[0103] Figure 22 is a perspective view of a first and a second bush assembly of the bed of

[0104] Figure 12,

[0105] Figure 23 is a perspective view of a first and a second bearing assembly of the bed of

[0106] Figure 12,

[0107] Figure 24 is s sectional views showing one of the first and second bearing assemblies of the bed of Figure 12,

[0108] Figure 25 is s sectional views showing one of the first and second bearing assemblies of the bed of Figure 12,

[0109] Figures 26 to 32 are sectional views showing different first bearing assemblies of the bed of Figure 12,

[0110] Figure 33 is a side view of the bed of Figure 12 in a flat position,

[0111] Figure 34 is a side view of the bed of Figure 12 in a partially raised position,

[0112] Figure 35 is a side view of the bed of Figure 12 in a fully raised position,

[0113] Figure 36 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 12 in a fully raised and retracted position,

[0114] Figure 37 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 12 in a fully raised and extended position,

[0115] Figure 38 is a perspective view of a bed according to a third embodiment of the present invention in a flat and extended position, Figure 39 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 38 in the retracted position with some parts moved to show their relative lateral positions,

[0116] Figure 40 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 38 in the extended position with some parts moved to show their relative lateral positions,

[0117] Figure 41 is a perspective view of a bed according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention in a flat and extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions, Figure 42 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 41 in a flat and extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0118] Figure 43 is a perspective view of part of the bed of Figure 41 in the extended position,

[0119] Figure 44 is a plan view of the bed of Figure 41 in the retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0120] Figure 45 is a plan view of the bed of Figure 41 in the extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0121] Figure 46 is a perspective view of a bed according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention in a flat and retracted position, with the lumbar and neck support slats in a flat position,

[0122] Figures 47 to 49 are perspective views of part of the bed of Figure 46 with the lumbar and neck support slats in a flat position,

[0123] Figure 50 is a side view of the bed of Figure 46 in the fully raised position and with the lumbar and neck support slats in a raised position,

[0124] Figure 51 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 46 in the fully raised position and with the lumbar and neck support slats in a raised position, Figure 52 is a perspective view of a bed according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention in a fully raised and extended position,

[0125] Figure 53 is an end view of the bed of Figure 52 in a fully raised and extended position,

[0126] Figure 54 is an underside plan view of the bed of Figure 52 in a fully raised and extended position,

[0127] Figure 55 is a perspective view of a bed according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention in a flat and retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0128] Figures 56 to 59 are perspective views of parts of the bed of Figure 55,

[0129] Figure 60 is a plan view of the bed of Figure 52 in a retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0130] Figure 61 is a plan view of the bed of Figure 52 in an extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0131] Figure 62 is a sectional perspective view of part of the bed of Figure 52 in a retracted position,

[0132] Figure 63 is a perspective view of part of the bed of Figure 52 in an extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0133] Figure 64 is a perspective view of one of the slat assemblies of the bed of Figure 52 in and extended position,

[0134] Figure 65 is a perspective view part of the slat assembly of the bed of Figure 52 in and extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions, Figure 66 is a perspective view of a bed according to an eight embodiment of the present invention in a flat and retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0135] Figure 67 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 66 in in a flat and extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0136] Figure 68 is a plan view of a bed according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention in a flat and retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0137] Figure 69 is a sectional perspective view of part of the bed of Figure 68 in a retracted position,

[0138] Figure 70 is a side view of the bed of Figure 68 in a retracted position,

[0139] Figure 71 is a plan view of the bed of Figure 68 in a retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0140] Figure 72 is a perspective view of part of the slat assembly of the bed of Figure 68 in a retracted position,

[0141] Figure 73 is a perspective view of part of the slat assembly of the bed of Figure 68 in a retracted position with some parts moved to show their relative lateral positions,

[0142] Figure 74 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 68 in an extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0143] Figure 75 is a plan view of the bed of Figure 68 in an extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0144] Figure 76 is a perspective view of part of the bed of Figure 68 in a retracted position,

[0145] Figure 77 is a perspective view of part of the slat assembly of the bed of Figure 68, Figure 78 is a plan view of a bed according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention in a flat and retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0146] Figure 79 is a perspective view of part of the slat assembly of the bed of Figure 78 in a retracted position with some parts moved to show their relative lateral positions,

[0147] Figure 80 is a plan view of part of the slat assembly of the bed of Figure 78 in a retracted position with some parts moved to show their relative lateral positions,

[0148] Figure 81 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 78 in an extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0149] Figure 82 is a plan view of the bed of Figure 78 in an extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0150] Figure 83 is a perspective view of a bed according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention in a partially raised and extended position,

[0151] Figure 84 is a perspective view of part of the bed of Figure 83 in a partially raised and extended position,

[0152] Figure 85 is a perspective view of an endcap of the bed of Figure 83.

[0153] Figure 86 is a perspective view of part of the bed of Figure 83 in a partially raised and extended position,

[0154] Figure 87 is a perspective view of a bed according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention in a flat and retracted position,

[0155] Figure 88 is a perspective view of the part of the bed of Figure 87 in a flat and retracted position, Figure 89 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 87 in a flat and retracted position with some parts removed,

[0156] Figure 90 is a side view of the bed of Figure 87 in a flat and retracted position

[0157] Figure 91 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 87 in a flat and extended position,

[0158] Figures 92 and 93 are perspective views of the bed of Figure 87 in a flat and extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0159] Figure 94 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 87 in a partially raised and extended position,

[0160] Figure 95 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 87 in a flat and extended position,

[0161] Figure 96 is a perspective view of part of the bed of Figure 87 in a flat and extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0162] Figure 97 is a perspective view of a bed according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention in a flat and retracted position,

[0163] Figure 98 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 97 in a flat and retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0164] Figure 99 is an end view of the bed of Figure 97 in a flat and retracted position,

[0165] Figure 100 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 97 in a flat and retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0166] Figure 101 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 97 in a flat and extended position,

[0167] Figure 102 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 97 in a flat and extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions, Figure 103 is an end view of the bed of Figure 97 in a flat and extended position,

[0168] Figure 104 is a perspective view of a bed according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention in a flat and retracted position,

[0169] Figure 105 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 104 in a flat and retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0170] Figure 106 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 104 in a flat and retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0171] Figure 107 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 107 in a flat and extended position,

[0172] Figure 108 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 104 in a flat and extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0173] Figure 109 is a perspective view of a bed according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention in a flat and retracted position,

[0174] Figure 110 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 109 in a flat and extended position,

[0175] Figure 111 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 109 in a flat and extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0176] Figure 112 is a perspective view of a bed according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention in a flat and retracted position,

[0177] Figure 113 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 112 in a flat and retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0178] Figure 114 is a perspective view of the slat assembly of the bed of Figure 112 in a retracted, Figure 115 is a perspective view of the slat assembly of Figure 114 in a retracted position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0179] Figure 116 is a plan view of the slat assembly of Figure 114 in a retracted position with some parts removed and moved to show their relative lateral positions,

[0180] Figure 117 is a perspective view of the central support section of the slat assembly of Figure 114,

[0181] Figure 118 is a plan view of the slat assembly of Figure 114 in the extended position with some parts moved to show their relative lateral positions,

[0182] Figure 119 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 112 in a flat and extended position with some parts removed to show their relative lateral positions,

[0183] Figure 120 is a perspective view of the slat assembly of Figure 114 in the extended position,

[0184] Figure 121 is a plan view of bed of Figure 112 in the extended position with some parts moved to show their relative lateral positions,

[0185] Figure 122 is a perspective view of a bed according to a seventeenth embodiment of the present invention in a flat and retracted position,

[0186] Figure 123 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 122 in a flat and extended position,

[0187] Figure 124 is a perspective view of a bed according to an eighteenth embodiment of the present invention in a flat and retracted position,

[0188] Figure 125 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 124 in a flat and extended position, Figure 126 is a perspective view of a bed according to a nineteenth embodiment of the present invention in a fully raised and retracted position,

[0189] Figure 127 is a perspective view of the bed of Figure 126 in a fully raised and extended position,

[0190] Figure 128 is a perspective view of a bed according to a twentieth embodiment of the present invention in a fully raised and extended position,

[0191] Figure 129 is a perspective view of part of the bed of Figure 128,

[0192] Figures 130 and 131 are plan views from above of the bed of Figure 128,

[0193] Figure 132 to 135 are perspective views of part of the bed of Figure 128,

[0194] Figures 136 and 137 are side views of the bed of Figure 128,

[0195] Figures 138 and 139 are perspective views of the bed of Figure 128,

[0196] Figures 140 to 143 are perspective views of parts of the bed of Figure 128,

[0197] Figure 144 is a side view of the bed of Figure 1 ,

[0198] Figure 145 is a side view of the bed of Figure with an associated mattress,

[0199] Figure 146 is a plan view an associated mattress, and

[0200] Figure 147 is a schematic plan view of the bed of Figure 1 and an associated mattress.

[0201] In Figures 1 to 11 , a bed 10 comprises a frame 12 including a plurality of legs, in this embodiment six legs 13a-f to support the bed 10 and maintain the frame 12 above a surface S. The frame comprises two parallel side rails in the form of left tube 15a and right tube 15b, a foot end rail in the form of foot end tube 17 and a head end rail in the form of head end tube 19 opposite the head end tube 19. The four tubes 15a, 15b, 17, 19 are made of aluminium and form a rectangular support upon which a mattress support platform 14 is secured. In alternative embodiments the side and end rails need not be tubes, and can be an open section such as a C-shaped or an L-shaped section, and can be made from alternatives to aluminium, for example steel.

[0202] The mattress support platform 14 supports a mattress (not shown) and is of the fixed type, that is, the mattress support platform 14 is not angularly adjustable relative to the frame 12.

[0203] One of the four legs 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d is positioned at each corner of the frame 12 and one leg 13e,13f part-way, in this embodiment mid-way, along each of the side tubes 15a, 15b to give further support to the side tubes 15a, 15b. In an alternative embodiment, for example where the side tubes include a hinge part-way along to enable the tubes, and therefore the frame to be folded, two of the legs are positioned below the hinge to provide support. In another alternative embodiment, the bed only includes four legs, one at each corner.

[0204] The mattress support platform 14 includes a plurality of, in this embodiment nine, mattress support elements in the form of slat assemblies 16. It can be seen in Figures 1 to 3 that the slat assemblies 16 are discrete and parallel spaced slats. In this embodiment, the slat assemblies 16 are uniformly spaced apart in a longitudinal direction L by a distance Ds of 100mm. In alternative embodiments, the slat assemblies 16 may be spaced uniformly by a different distance, or spaced non- uniformly. Each slat assembly 16 has a depth DSA of 100mm.

[0205] Each slat assembly 16 is elongated, that is, having a lateral (in the direction of arrow W) width WR greater than its depth DSA (Figure 3).

[0206] Each slat assembly 16 includes a central support section in the form of a central support slat 28, an extending section 30 comprising a first extending support section in the form of a first extending support slat 30a, and a second extending support section in the form of a second extending support slat 30b, and a support section in the form of a sleeve 32. Each slat 28, 30a, 30b, 32 is defined by a profile which includes a lower straight portion 34 and a curved portion which includes two curved side portions 38 and a curved upper portion 40, that is, the central support section 28 and extending support section 30 slats have a cross-section which is at least partially oval.

[0207] Each of the slats 28, 30a, 30b and the sleeve 32 are extruded from aluminium and defined by a hollow cross-sectional profile having the same thickness t, which includes a lower straight portion 34 and a curved portion. The curved portion includes two curved side portions 38 and a curved upper portion 40. In alternative embodiments, the slats 28, 30a, 30b and the sleeve 32 can have different thicknesses.

[0208] The central support slat 28, the first extending support slat 30a, the second extending support slat 30b, and the sleeve 32 have identical cross-sectional shaped profiles, other than the first extending support slat 30a, the second extending support slat 30b, and the sleeve 32 have closed or continuous profiles whereas the central support slat 28 has an open or non-continuous cross-sectional profile, specifically the lower straight portion 34 of the central support slat 28 includes an opening 35.

[0209] The second extending support slat 30b and the sleeve 32 have identically shaped and sized profiles such that they can slidingly locate inside the central support slat 28.

[0210] In Figure 4, the sleeve 32 is secured at a free end of and within the central support slat 28 using an adhesive between an outer surface of the sleeve 32 and an inner surface of the central support slat 28 to prevent lateral sliding movement between the sleeve 32 and the central support slat 28 once it is installed inside the central support slat 28. Alternatively, as described further below, the sleeve is secured within the central support slat via a hole and fastener arrangement (not shown). In another alternative, the sleeve is sized so as to form an interference fit with the central support slat such that it cannot slide laterally once it has been installed.

[0211] The second extending support slat 30b is sized such that it can slidingly locate inside the central support slat 28 during assembly, and slidingly move within the central support slat 28 in the lateral direction W during operation as will be described below. The first extending support slat 30s is sized such that it can slidingly move within the sleeve 32 (which is inserted inside the central support slat 28) and within the second extending support slat 30b in the lateral direction L during operation as will be described below.

[0212] It can be seen in Figures 1 , 4 and 5 that in the retracted position, the first extending support slat 30a is fully housed within the second extending support slat 30b by being inserted inside the second extending support slat 30b and, the first extending support slat 30a partially overlaps in the lateral direction W by a distance SR with the second extending support slat 30b, and that both the extending support slats 30a, 30b are fully housed within the central support slat 28 by being inserted inside the central support slat 28. Both the extending support slats 30a, 30b partially overlap in the lateral direction Wwith the central support slat 28 in the retracted position.

[0213] It can be see in Figures 6 and 9 to 11 that both the first 30a and second 30b extending support slats are fully housed within the central support slat 28 by being inserted inside the central support slat 28 in the extended position.

[0214] In the above embodiment, the profiles of each of the slats 28, 30a, 30b and the sleeve 32 are described as having substantially identical cross-sectionally shaped profiles. It will be understood that the profiles need not be identical but can vary in shape, providing relative sliding movement is possible. It will be further understood that the profiles are shaped and sized sufficiently to allow sliding movement of the first 30a and the second 30b extending support slats in the lateral direction L, but not allow any significant vertical movement between the first extending support slat 30a and the sleeve 32 and between the second extending support slat 30b and the central support slat 28 to ensure sufficient vertical support is given by the first 30a and the second 30b extending support slats when in an extended position as will be described below.

[0215] The central support slat 28 of each slat assembly 16 is secured to each side tube 15a, 15b of the frame 12 via a bracket 42. Each bracket 42 is secured to the side tube 15a, 15 via a fastener such as a self-tapping screw (not shown) which locates through holes 44 of the central support slat 28 and holes 46 of the bracket 42. In alternative embodiments, the central support slat can be secured directly to the side tube of the frame without the need for a bracket.

[0216] Once secured, the first 30a and the second 30b extending support slats can slide relative to the central support slat 28, and therefore the frame 12, between a retracted and an extended position as will be described below. Holes 46 have a larger diameter than holes 44 such that when assembled, the self-tapping screw precisely locates the central support slat 28 relative to the bracket 42 and therefore to the side bar 15a, the importance of which is discussed below.

[0217] Each of the first 30a and second 30b extending support slats include an end cap 48 which is inserted inside their open free ends to close off their open sections.

[0218] In the above embodiments, the first extending support slat 30a is described as being fully enclosed inside the second extending support slat 30b, and both extending support slats 30a, 30b as being fully enclosed inside the central support slat 28. In alternative embodiments the slats need not be full enclosed. For example, the first and second extending support slats could have a feature which projects beyond or is flush with the opening 35 of the central support slat 28. Alternatively, the first extending support slat could include a feature which projects through or is flush with an opening of the second extending support slat.

[0219] Operation of the bed 10 is as follows.

[0220] In Figures 1 , 3, 4, 5 and 10, the bed 10 is shown in a retracted position where the second extending support slat 30b and the first extending support slat 30a are fully retracted and located inside and fully within the central support slat 28 in the lateral direction W. In Figure 5, the slat assembly 16 is shown with the individual slats 28, 30a, 30b and sleeve 32 shifted longitudinally to show their relative lateral positions. In Figure 10, slat assemblies 16f, 16g, 16h, 16i are shown with the central support slat 28 removed, slat assembly 16h with the sleeve 32 removed, slat assembly 16g with the first extending support slat 30a removed, and slat assembly 16f with the second extending support slat 30b removed to show their relative positions. In the retracted position, the first extending support slat 30a is inserted inside, and partially overlapping in the lateral direction W by a distance SR with the second extending support slat 30b, and that both the extending support slats 30a, 30b are inserted inside and substantially fully overlapping in the lateral direction W with the central support slat 28. It can also be seen that the first extending support slat 30a is inside the sleeve 32 which is fixed inside the central support slat 28.

[0221] In the retracted position the mattress support platform 14 has a width WR (Figures 3 and 10).

[0222] In Figures 6, 9 and 11 , the first 30a and second 30b extending support slats have been manually and slidingly adjusted laterally in the direction of arrow W to an extended position having a width WE. In Figure 11 , the central support slats 32 have been removed to show the sleeves 32 and the position of the first 30a and second 30b extended support slats.

[0223] A biased catch (not shown in this embodiment) locks the extending support slat 30a, 30b relative to and in a corresponding hole (not shown) on the central support slat 28 according to the desired lateral extended width WE.

[0224] In Figures 6, 9 and 11 , in the extended position, in contrast to the retracted position, the second extending support slat 30b is no longer partially housed in the lateral direction within the first extending support slat 30a, that is the first 30a and second 30b extending support slats are separated by a distance SE in the lateral direction W. Both extending support slats 30a, 30b are inserted inside the central support slat 28, and the first extending support slat 30a inserted inside the sleeve 32 which is fixed inside the central support slat 28.

[0225] In the extended position, the load of the mattress and occupant(s) (not shown) is supported in the vertical direction by the central slat 28, the first extending support slat 30a and the second extending support slat 30b.

[0226] The dimensional tolerance between the first extending support slat 30a and the sleeve 32 allows sliding movement, but limits substantial vertical movement when under load. Similarly, the dimensional tolerance between the second extending support slat 30b and the central support slat 28 allows sliding movement of the first 30a and second 30b extending support slats, but limits substantial vertical movement. By limiting the vertical movement, configuring the shape and thickness t of the cross-sectional profiles of the extending slats 30a, 30b and the central support slat 28, the mattress support platform can vertically support the load of the mattress and occupant(s) when in the extended position. Typically the tolerance between the central support slat 28 and the second extending support slat 30b and between the sleeve 32 and the first extending support slat is less than 0.2mm, preferably less than 0.1 mm. This tolerance is sufficient to allow relative sliding movement between the first extending support slat 30a and the sleeve 32 and between the second extending support slat 30b and the central support slat 28, but still provide vertical support when the mattress support platform is under the load of a mattress and occupant (s). In particular, the open or non-continuous cross-sectional profile of the central support slat 28, and the precise location of the central support slat 28 on the side tubes 15a, 15b as described above, ensures the required tolerances are achieved to enable the sliding movement and provide vertical support.

[0227] In Figure 9, it can be seen that the first 30a and second 30b extending support slats partially overlap in the lateral direction W with the central support slat 28. That is, the first 30a and second 30b extending support slats are cantilevered when in the extended position. It will be understood that in an alternative embodiment, the first and second extending support slats can be inserted inside, partially or fully housed or interlocked with the central support slat, but not be cantilevered, specifically, the first and second extending support slats could be supported by a laterally extended side rail of the frame of the bed (of the type shown in Figure 126) and not by the central support slat.

[0228] In the above embodiments, the retracted position corresponds to a mattress support platform having a width WR which can support a single mattress, and in the extended position corresponds to a mattress support platform having a width WE which can support a king-sized mattress. In alternative embodiments, the retracted width can support a single mattress and the extended width can be extended to support a double mattress or a super king-sized mattress, the retracted width can support a double mattress and the extended width can support a king or super-king size mattress, or the retracted width can support a king-sized mattress and the extended width can support a super-king size mattress. It will be understood that the bed can be adjusted between any lateral width in the retracted and extended positions, and is not limited to supporting mattresses of single, double, king and super-king sizes.

[0229] In Figures 9 to 11 , the extending supports slats 30a, 30b, the central support slat 28 and the sleeve 32 are arranged on a common lateral axis AL in both the retracted and the extended positions such that the extending supports slats 30a, 30b, the central support slat 28 and the sleeve 32 are aligned in the longitudinal direction L.

[0230] In Figure 11 , the sleeves 32 are located on the same side of the bed (to the right when viewing Figure 11). In alternative embodiments, all the sleeves can be provided on the opposition side, or the sleeves can be provided alternately on opposite sides of adjacent slats.

[0231] A comparison of Figures 9 (extended position) and 1 (retracted position) shows that legs 13a-f remain stationary when the first 30a and second 30b extended support slats of the mattress support platform 14 moves between the retracted and extended positions.

[0232] It will be appreciated that the advantage of the above described embodiment is that a bed can be provided with a reduced lateral width and be extended to a greater width prior to being used. More specifically, the bed can be supplied to distributors and customers in one width, and therefore in one packaging size, and extended to the greater width required (for example, to support a double, king or super-king size mattress), at the customer end-use location. The provision of bed which can be extended significantly reduces the number of SKUs required, and the provision of a reduced width bed which can be extended after delivery both reduces the packaging size and therefore the cost of distribution, and simplifies storage if fewer packaging sizes are required. In addition, the reduced packaging size enables transportation in smaller vehicles. By way of example, a bed which can accommodate a super king- sized mattress can be provided in the same size packaging as a bed which can accommodate a single sized mattress. Furthermore, by careful design of the cross-sectional profiles and thicknesses of the slats, and appropriate selection of materials, such as aluminium, the weight of the bed can be reduced, in particular, reduced below weight sensitive cost thresholds set by logistics companies and therefore attract a lower transportation and delivery cost.

[0233] In Figures 12 to 37, an alternative bed 110 is shown which is identical to the bed described in relation to Figures 1 to 11 , except that the bed 110 is not of the fixed type, that is, the mattress support platform is angularly adjustable in the vertical direction V relative to the frame 112 as will be described below.

[0234] In Figure 12, the bed 110 includes an angularly adjustable mattress support platform 114 and a frame 112.

[0235] The frame 112 comprise a first section 112a and a second section 112b on opposite lateral sides of the bed. The first 112a and second 112b sections are joined by a hinge 113 which allows the frame 112 to be folded together to reduce the length dimension of the bed for packaging and transportation and / or storage purposes and subsequently unfolded to provide a full length adjustable bed. The first section 112 includes the foot 126 and the thigh 124 support sections, and the section 112b includes the back support 120 and the mattress bend support 122 sections. An example of such a folding bed is described in WO2017216547. In Figure 33, the first section 112a has a lower surface 119 and the second section 112h as a lower surface 121. When the bed 110 is folded using hinge 113, the lower surfaces 119,121 come into contact with each other, thereby shielding delicate controls, electronics and actuators (not shown in Figure 33) from potentially being damaged when the bed 110 is being stored or transported in the folded position.

[0236] In addition to the frame 112 of the bed being foldable, each of the mattress support sections 118,120,122,124,126 can be provided as a modular assembly such that they can be pivotally connected to an adjacent mattress support section 118,120,122,124,126 and releasably attached to the frame 112 to enable more compact packaging and the associated reduction in transportation costs, and then subsequently assembled to provide a fully angularly adjustable bed. The angularly adjustable mattress support platform 114 comprises a plurality of mattress support assemblies 116a-i which are arranged on a plurality of mattress support sections in the form of a seat support section 118, a back support section 120, a mattress bend support section 122 positioned between the back support section 120 and the seat support section 118, a thigh support section 124 and a foot support section 126.

[0237] The seat support section 118 is adjacent to both the mattress bend support section 122 and the thigh support section 124, and is angularly fixed relative to the frame 112 and comprises a single seat support assembly 116e and a pair of parallel spaced side members 127e connected to each other by the seat mattress support assembly 116e.

[0238] The back support section 120 is adjacent to the mattress bend support section 122, and is angularly adjustable relative to the frame 112 and the comprises three back support assemblies 116g, h,i and a pair of parallel spaced side members 127ghi connected to each other by the three back mattress support assemblies 116g-i.

[0239] The mattress bend support section 122 is adjacent to both the back support section 120 and the seat support section 118, and is angularly adjustable relative to the frame 112 and comprises a single mattress bend support assembly 116f and a pair of parallel spaced side members 127f connected to each other by the mattress bend support assembly 116f. In an alternative embodiment, instead of a single mattress bend support section 122 positioned between, and adjacent to the back support section 120 and the seat support section 118, two or more mattress bend support sections can be provided between the back support section and the seat support section to further accommodate the bending of the mattress on the mattress support platform when the back support section is raised and lowered.

[0240] The thigh support section 124 is adjacent to both the seat support section 118 and the foot support section 126, and is angularly adjustable relative to the frame 112, and comprises two thigh support assemblies 116c, d and a pair of parallel spaced side members 127cd connected to each other by the two thigh support assemblies 116c,d. The foot support section 126 is adjacent to the thigh support section 124, and is angularly adjustable relative to the frame 112, and comprises two foot support assemblies 116a, b and a pair of parallel spaced side members 127ab connected to each other by the two foot support assemblies 116a,b.

[0241] As in the bed 10 of Figures 1 to 11 , each of the mattress support assemblies 16a-i includes a central support slat 127 which is secured to its respective side bars 127ab,cd,e,f,ghi via a hole and fastener arrangement (not shown).

[0242] The side bar 127ghi of the back support section 120 is pivotally mounted to the side bar 127f of the mattress bend support section 122 via a bearing arrangement 147 which will be described in more detail below, such that the back support section 120 is pivotally mounted with respect to the mattress bend support section 122 to allow relative angular adjustment between the back support section 122 and the mattress bend support section 122.

[0243] The side bar 127f of the mattress bend support section 122 is pivotally mounted to the side bar 127e of the fixed seat section 118 via a bearing arrangement 145 which will be described in more detail below such that the mattress bend support section 122 is pivotally mounted with respect to the seat support section 118 to allow relative angular adjustment between the mattress bend support section 118 and the seat support section 118.

[0244] The side bar 127cd of the thigh support section 124 is pivotally mounted to the side bar 127e of the fixed seat section 118 via a bearing arrangement 143 such that the thigh support section 124 is pivotally mounted with respect to the seat support section 118 to allow relative angular adjustment between the thigh support section 124 and the seat support section 118.

[0245] The side bar 127ab of the foot support section 126 is pivotally mounted to the side bar 127cd of the thigh support section 124 via a bearing assembly 149 such that the foot support section 126 is pivotally mounted with respect to the thigh support section 124 to allow relative angular adjustment between the foot support section 26 and the thigh support section 124. In Figure 13, the bed 110 comprises a first H-frame which includes a pair of side arms 174 and a cross-member 176 extending between and connecting the arms 174 partway along their length. Each of the side arms 174 includes a straight section 174a and a curved section. 174b, although it will be understood the side arms 174 can be fully curved or fully straight. A roller 178 is provided on a first distal end of each of the two side arms 174 and is slidingly rollable on a track 121 provided in the side bar 127ghi when the back support section 120 is raised and lowered. A second distal end of the side arms 174 is pivotally connected to the side tubes 115a, 115b of the frame 112 via a bearing arrangement 139.

[0246] A linkage 171 connects the side arms 174 to a pivotal point which connects the side bar 127ghi of the back support section 120 and the side bar 127f of the mattress bend support section 122. One end of the linkage 171 is pivotally connected to the side arms 174 via a bearing assembly 150 positioned part-way along the length of the side arms 174. Another end of the linkage 171 is pivotally connected to both the side bar 127ghi of the back support section 120 and the side bar 127f of the mattress bend support section 122 via a bearing assembly 160. The linkage 171 coordinates the movement between the back support section 120 and the mattress bend support section 122 as will be described below.

[0247] In Figure 16, the bed 110 comprises a second H-frame which is similar to the first H- frame, and includes a pair of parallel spaced side arms 180 connected by a crossmember 182. A roller 184 is provided on a free end of each of the side arms 180 and is slidingly rollable on a track 131 provided in the side bar 127ab of the foot support section. Another free end of the side arms 180 is pivotally connected to the side tubes 115a, 115b of the frame 112 via a bearing assembly 150.

[0248] A linkage 183 connects the side arms 180 to a pivotal point which connects the side bar 127ab of the foot support section 120 and the side bar 127f of the mattress bend support section 126. One end of the linkage 183 is pivotally connected to the side arms 180 via a bearing assembly 150 positioned part-way along the length of the side arms 180. Another end of the linkage 183 is pivotally connected to both the side bar 127ab of the foot support section 126 and the side bar 127cd of the thigh support section 124 via a bearing assembly 160. The linkage 180 coordinates the movement between the foot support section 126 and the thigh support section 124 as will be described below.

[0249] In Figures 12 to 16, the bed 110 further comprises a first actuator 170 in the form of a linear actuator having a first end (motor and gear box end) pivotally mounted to the head end 119 of the frame 112 and a second end (rod) pivotally connected to the cross-member 176, relative movement between the first and second end moving the back support section 120 between a lowered and a raised position, and a second actuator 172 in the form of a linear actuator having a first end (motor and gear box end) pivotally mounted to the foot end 117 of the frame 112 and a second end (rod) pivotally connected to the cross-member 182, relative movement between the first and second end moving the foot support section 126 and the thigh support section 124 between a lowered and a raised position. In alternative embodiments, the actuators may not be linear actuators. Alternatively, a gas strut can be used to angularly adjust the support sections instead of an electrically powered actuator.

[0250] In Figures 18 to 24, the bearing arrangement 147 comprises a first bearing assembly 150a and a second bearing assembly 150b.

[0251] The first 150a and second 150b bearing assemblies comprise a bearing 156, a bush assembly 151a, b, a bearing washer 149a, b and a fastener 153 (the faster 153 only shown in Figure 24). The bearing 156 is a conventional roller bearing having an inner race 155 and an outer race 157 separated by balls (not shown), the inner 155 and outer race 157 being rotationally moveable relative to each other. The fastener 153 comprises a nut 167 and a bolt 165 and a first 169a and second 169b fastener washer. In alternative embodiments the fastener can be a rivet or any other means which can clamp components together.

[0252] Each bush assembly 151a, b comprises a first bush 158 and a second bush 154 (Figure 22)

[0253] The bearing washer 149a is positioned axially between and in surface contact with the second bush 154 of the first bearing assembly 150a and the first bush 154 of the second bearing assembly 150b. The first bush 158 includes a first axially inward projection 161a and the second bush 154 includes a first axially inward projection 161 b which is identical to the first axially inward projection 161 a. The first 161a and second 161 b axially inward projections limit the lateral movement of the second component 127f.

[0254] The first bush 158 includes a second axially inward projection 163a and the second bush 154 includes a second axially inward projection 163b which is identical to the second axially inward projection 163a. The first axially inward projection 161a, b is positioned radially (in the direction of Arrow R in Figure 25) outboard of the second axially inward projection 163a,b. The first 163a and second 163b axially inward projections engage with the inner race 155 to rotationally fix the inner race 155 and the bush assembly 151 to the first component 127g h i using the fastener 153 as will be described below.

[0255] The outer race 157 of the first bearing assembly 150a is rotationally fixed to the side bar 127f (a second component) of the mattress bend support section 122 by sizing an aperture 173 of the side bar 127f such that it forms an interference fit with the outer race 157 of the bearing 156 (Figures 19 and 20). By rotationally fixed to the side bar 127f it is meant that the outer race 157 of the first bearing assembly 150a cannot rotative relative to the side bar 127f.

[0256] The inner race 155 is rotationally fixed to the side bar 127ghi of the back support section 120 (a first component) by axially (in the lateral direction W) clamping the side bar 127g h i to the inner race 155 and at least part of the bush assembly 158 in the form of the first bush 158 using the fastener 153 as will be described below.

[0257] The first 150a and second 150b bearing assemblies are axially clamped and secured to each other using the fastener 153. The bolt 167 engages via fastener washer 169a, with the side bar 127ghi (the first component) and the nut 165 engages with the bearing washer 149s via fastener washer 169b to clamp and rotationally fix the side bar 123ghi to the bush assembly 151 of the first bearing assembly 150a and rotationally fix the bush assembly 151 of the second bearing assembly 150b to the bush assembly 150 of the first bearing assembly 150a. Engagement between the bolt 167 and the bolt 165 also clamps and rotationally fixes the inner race 155 of each bearing 156 to the respective bush assembly of the first 150a and second 150b bearing assembly.

[0258] The outer race 157 of the second bearing assembly 150b is rotationally fixed to the linkage 171 (a third component) by sizing an aperture of the linkage such that it forms an interference fit with the outer race 157 in the same way as described above in relation to the side bar 127f and the outer race 157 of the first bearing assembly 150a.

[0259] Once clamped together, and when driven by the actuator 170, the side bar 127ghi (the first component), the side bar 127f (the second component), and the linkage 171 (the third component) are free to pivot relative to each other and effect pivotal movement of the back support section 120 relative to the mattress bend support section 122.

[0260] In Figures 16, 17 and 25, the bearing arrangement 149 is identical to the bearing arrangement 147 other than the first component corresponds to the side bar 127ab of the foot support section 126, the second component corresponds to the side bar 127cd of the thigh support section, and the third component corresponds to the linkage 183. When driven by the actuator 172, the side bar 127ab (the first component), the side bar 127cd (the second component), and the linkage 183 (the third component) are free to pivot relative to each other and effect pivotal movement of the foot support section 126 relative to the thigh support section 124.

[0261] In Figures 12, 26 and 27, the bearing arrangement 143 comprises only a single bearing assembly in the form of a first bearing assembly 150a which is identical to the bearing assembly 150a of the bearing arrangements 147,149 other than the first component corresponds to the side bar 127cd of the foot support section 124 and the second component corresponds to the side bar 127e of the fixed seat section 118. When driven by the actuator 172, the side bar 127cd (the first component) and the side bar 127e (the second component) are free to pivot relative to each other and effect pivotal movement of the foot support section 126 relative to the fixed seat section 118. In Figures 14 and 28, the bearing arrangement 145 is identical to the bearing arrangement 143 other than the first component corresponds to the side bar 127e of the fixed seat section 118 and the second component corresponds to the side bar 127f of the mattress bend support section 122. When driven by the actuator 170, the side bar 127e (the first component) and the side bar 127f (the second component) are free to pivot relative to each other and effect pivotal movement of the mattress bend support section 122 relative to the fixed seat section 118.

[0262] In Figures 13 and 29, the bearing arrangement 139 is identical to the bearing arrangement 143 other than the first component corresponds to the side rail 115a, b of the frame 112 and the second component corresponds to the side bracket 174. When driven by the actuator 170, the side bracket 174 (the second component) can pivot relative to the side bar 115a,b (the first component) and effect pivotal movement of back support section 120 relative to the frame 112.

[0263] In Figures 16 and 30, the bearing arrangement 137 is identical to the bearing arrangement 139 other than the second component corresponds to the side bracket 180. When driven by the actuator 172, the side bracket 180 (the second component) can pivot relative to the side bar 115a,b (the first component) and effect pivotal movement of the foot support section 126 relative to the frame 112.

[0264] In Figures 15 and 31 , the bearing arrangement 129 is identical to the bearing arrangement 139 other than the first component corresponds to the side bracket 174 and the second component corresponds to the linkage 171. When driven by the actuator 170, the side bracket 174 (the first component) can pivot relative to the linkage 171 (the second component) and effect pivotal movement of the back support section 120 relative to the mattress bend support section 122.

[0265] In Figures 16 and 32 the bearing arrangement 135 is identical to the bearing arrangement 129 other than the first component corresponds to the side bracket 180 and the second component corresponds to the linkage 183. When driven by the actuator 172, the side bracket 180 (the first component) can pivot relative to the linkage 183 (the second component) and effect pivotal movement of the foot support section 126 relative to the thigh support section 124. The above-described bearing assembly is used on pivoting components of a bed. It will be understood that the bearing assembly of the present invention need not be limited to a bed, but to any item of adjustable furniture where at least two components are pivotally joined, for example, an adjustable chair, or an adjustable desk.

[0266] Operation of the bed 110 is as follows.

[0267] In Figures 12, 13 and 33 to 35, the back support section 120 is moved about pivot point PP between the lowered fully flat position of Figure 33 to the mid of partially raised position of Figure 34 and then to the fully raised position of Figure 35 by extension and retraction of the actuator 170. When the actuator 170 is extended, the side arms 174 rotate about the pivotal connection provided by the bearing arrangement 139 on the side rails 115a, b, and roller 178 rolls along the track 121 of the side bar 127ghi to raise the back support section 120. Simultaneously, rotation of the side arms 174 causes the pivotally connected linkage 171 to rotate and act on the mattress bend support section 118 causing the mattress bend support section 118 to rotate relative to the back support section 120 about the bearing arrangement 147, that is, about the pivotal connection between the mattress bend support section 118 and the back support section 120. Thus, operation of the actuator 170 drives both and coordinates the movement between the mattress bend support section 118 and the back support section 120 by virtue of the linkage 171 and the side arm 174.

[0268] In Figures 16 and 33 to 35, the foot support section 126 is moved between the lowered fully flat position of Figure 33 to the partially raised or mid position of Figure 34 and then to the fully raised position of Figure 34 by extension and retraction of the actuator 172. When the actuator 172 is extended, the side arms 180 rotate about the pivotal connection provided by the bearing arrangement 137 on the side rails 115a, b, and roller 184 rolls along the track 131 of the side bar 127ab to raise the foot support section 126. Simultaneously, rotation of the side arms 180 causes the pivotally connected linkage 183 to rotate and act on the thigh support section 124 causing the thigh support section 124 to rotate relative to the foot support section 126 about the bearing arrangement 149, that is, about the pivotal connection between the thigh support section 124 and the foot support section 126. Thus, operation of the actuator 172 drives both and coordinates the movement between the thigh support section 124 and the foot support section 126 by virtue of the linkage 183 and the side arm 180.

[0269] Extension of the bed 110 between the retracted position (Figure 36) and the extended position (Figure 37) is identical to the bed 110. In Figure 36, the bed 110 is in the retracted position with a lateral retracted width defined by the length WR of the central support slats 128, and in Figure 37 the bed 110 is in the extended position with the free ends of the first 130a and the second 130b extending support slats defining the extended width WE.

[0270] In bed 110, the seat support section 118 is slidingly fixed relative to the frame 112. In an alternative embodiment, the bed can be of the zero-wall type, that is, the position of the occupant on the mattress support platform is maintained in proximity with a wall against which the head end of the bed may be arranged. This desirable zero-wall functionality ensures that the occupant's position is maintained with respect to adjacent bedside furniture when the back support section is raised and lowered. This zero-wall functionality is achieved by fixing the mattress support platform to an intermediate carriage which is slidingly movable in a track of the frame of the bed, and fixing the actuator moving the back support section to the fixed frame of the bed such that the mattress support platform move rearwards towards the head end of the bed when the back support section is raised by the actuator, and moves forwards towards the foot end of the bed when the back support section is lowered by the actuator. It will be understood that the invention as described in Figures 12 to 121 and Figures 124 to 127 can be applied to a zero-wall bed.

[0271] In bed 110, the back support section 120, the mattress bend support section 122, the thigh support section 124 and the foot support section 126 are all angularly adjustable. In alternative embodiments, not all support sections need be adjustable, for example, only the back support section could be adjustable.

[0272] In bed 110, the mattress bend support section 122 is provided between the back support section 120 and the seat support section 118. In alternative embodiments, the back support section 120 can be pivotally attached directly to the seat support section 118 without providing a mattress bend support section 122. In Figures 38 to 40, an alternative bed 210 is shown which is identical to the bed 110 described in relation to Figures 12 to 36 except as described below.

[0273] The first 230a and second 230b extending support slats each have substantially the same width as the central support slat 228 to ensure that, in the retracted position (Figure 39 - shown with slats 228, 230a, 230b removed from the support platform 214 to view their relative positions), the extending support slats 230a, 230b do not extend substantially beyond the central support slat 228 (without the end cap 248) and are therefore fully overlap with the central support slat 228 in the lateral direction W.

[0274] In the retracted position of Figure 39, the first extending support slat 230a is inserted inside the second extending support slat 230b such that is fully housed within the second extending support slat 230b. The first extending support slat 230a fully overlaps in the lateral direction with the second extending support slat 230b.

[0275] It can be seen from Figure 40 that the first 230a and the second 230b extending support slats partially overlap in the lateral direction W by a distance O when in the extended position (in contrast to bed 10). As well as being partially overlapping, the first extending support slat 230a is inserted inside and therefore fully housed within the second extending support slat 230b in the extended position. By partially overlapping, and the first extending support slat 230a being inserted inside second extending support slat 230b, the first 230a and second 230b extending support slats are considered vertically and longitudinally interlocked in the extended position. It will be understood that the first extending support slat need not be fully inserted inside the second extending support slat and still be considered interlocked, providing the first extending support slat is partially inserted inside and at least partially overlapping with the second extending support slat such that the first and second extending support slats support each other under load of the mattress and occupant. It will also be understood that in an alternative embodiment, the interlocking need only provide vertical constraint, and need not be vertical and longitudinal constraining to support the load. The support platform 214 of the bed 210 is angularly adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110 between the lowered and raised positions.

[0276] The lateral width of the support platform 214 of the bed 210 is adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110.

[0277] In Figures 41 to 45 an alternative bed 310 is shown which is identical to the bed 110 described in relation to Figures 12 to 37 except as described below.

[0278] The bed 310 comprises a plurality of mattress support elements in the form of a plurality of slat assemblies 316. Each slat assembly includes an extending section including a first extending support section 330a comprising an inner slat 330ainner and an outer slat 330aOuter, and a second extending support section 330b comprising an inner slat 330binner and an outer slat 330bouter which are identical to the inner and outer slats of the first extending support section 330a.

[0279] In the retracted position, the inner slats 330ainner,330binner are inserted inside the outer slats 330aOuter,330bouter, and the outer slats 330aOuter,330bouter are inserted inside the central support slat 328. (Figure 41 with some slats removed to identify relative lateral slat positions).

[0280] In the retracted position, the inner slats 330ainner,330binner are substantially fully housed laterally inside the outer slats 330aouter,330bouter, and the outer slats 330aouter,330bouter are substantially fully housed laterally inside the central support slat 328.

[0281] Unlike the beds 10, 110,210, the first 330a and second 330b extending support sections do not overlap with each other in the retracted position.

[0282] In the extended position (Figure 42 with some slats removed to identify relative lateral slat positions and Figure 43), the outer slats 330aOuter,330bouter have been moved laterally relative to the central support slat 328, and the inner slats 330ainner,330binner and have been moved laterally relative to the outer slats 330aouter,330bouter. A comparison of Figure 43 (retracted) and Figure 44 (extended) shows that there is no overlap between the first 330a and the second 330b extending support slats in the lateral direction L when in the extended position, that is, the first 330a extending support slat is not partially laterally housed within the second extending support slat 330b.

[0283] A comparison of Figures 41 and 44 (retracted) and Figures 42, 43 and 45 (extended) shows that the first 330a and the second 330b extending support slats are partially housed in the lateral direction (direction of arrow W) in the central support slat 328 by virtue of the outer slats 330aOuter,330bouter being partially housed in the lateral direction W in the central support slat 328.

[0284] The support platform 314 of the bed 310 is angularly adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110.

[0285] The lateral width of the support platform 314 of the bed 310 is adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110 except that the movement of the first 330a and the second 330b extending support slats is telescopic movement in that both extending support slats 330a, 330b each require the movement of the outer slats 330aOuter,330bouter relative to the central support slat 328, and the inner slats 330ainner,330binner relative to the outer slats 330aouter, 330bouter.

[0286] In Figures 46 to 51 an alternative bed 410 is shown which is identical to the bed 110 described in relation to Figures 12 to 37 except as described below.

[0287] The bed includes a support platform 414 comprising a plurality of mattress support elements in the form of slat assemblies 416a-i.

[0288] The back support section 420 comprises an adjustable lumbar support slat assembly 416g, an adjustable neck support slat assembly 416i and a fixed slat assembly 416h.

[0289] The fixed support slat assembly 416h is secured at each end to side bars 427ghi of the back support section 420 in the same way as in bed 110. The bed 410 further includes a neck support actuator 421 configured to move the adjustable neck support slat assembly 416i and a lumbar support actuator 423 configured to move the adjustable neck support slat assembly 416i. Both the neck support actuator 421 and the lumbar support actuator 423 are push-only linear actuators.

[0290] The neck support actuator 421 has a first end (motor and gear box end) pivotally connected to a strap 425hi which is pivotally secured on the fixed slat assembly 416h, and a second end (rod) pivotally connected to a strap 425i which is pivotally secured on the central support slat 428i of the adjustable neck support slat assembly 416i such that relative movement between the first and second end neck support actuator 421 rotates the adjustable neck support slat assembly 416i relative to the fixed slat 426h between a flat (Figures 46 to 49) and a fully raised position (Figures 50 and 51)

[0291] The lumbar support actuator 423 has a first end (motor and gear box end) pivotally connected to a strap 425h2 which is pivotally secured on the fixed slat 426h, and a second end (rod) pivotally connected to a strap 425g which is pivotally secured on the central support slat 428g of the adjustable lumbar support slat assembly 416g such that relative movement between the first and second end neck support actuator 423 rotates the adjustable lumbar support slat assembly 416g relative to the fixed slat 426h between a flat (Figures 46 to 49) and a raised position (Figures 50 and 51). In alternative embodiments, the actuators 421 ,423 can be pivotally secured at the motor and gear box end directly to the side bar 427ghi rather than indirectly via the straps 425hi,425h2. Similarly, the actuators 421 ,423 can be pivotally secured at the rod end directly to the side bar 427ghi rather than indirectly via the straps 425hi,425h2.

[0292] In Figures 48 and 49, the straps 425g,425hi,425h2,425i have an internal cross- sectional profile which corresponds in shape and size to the external cross-sectional profile of the support slat assemblies 416g,416h,416i such that the straps 425g,425hi,425h2,425i can be slidingly assembled onto the support slat assemblies 416g,416h,416i, and be rotatably secured to the support slat assemblies 416g,416h,416i onto which the straps 425g,425hi,425h2,425i have been assembled. The straps 425g,425hi,425h2,425i further include an aperture 427 to enable pivotal connection of the actuators 421 ,423. In contrast to beds 110 to 310, the central support slat 428g on the adjustable lumbar support slat assembly 416g and the central support slat 428i on the adjustable neck support slat assembly 416i are pivotally attached to the side bar 427ghi by only being fixed to the side bar 427ghi using a single fastener 437 enabling the adjustable support slat assembly 416g, 416i to be pivoted relative to the side bar 427ghi, as opposed to the use of two fasteners in beds 10 to 310 which are used to secure each of the non- adjustable support slats 16,116,216,316 to the side bar 27,127,237,337. In bed 410, the neck support slat 428i is pivotally attached to the side bar 427ghi at its most forward end (towards the foot end 417 of the bed 410) and rotates towards the foot end 417 when moving from the lowered to the raised position, and the lumbar support slat 428g is pivotally attached to the side bar 427ghi at its most rearward end (towards the head end 419 of the bed 410) and rotates towards the head end 419 when moving from the lowered to the raised position. In alternative embodiments, the pivotal attachment point of the neck and lumbar support slats on the side bar can be reversed such that the neck support slat is pivotally attached to the side bar at its most rearward end (towards the head end of the bed), and the lumbar support slat is pivotally attached to the side bar at its most forward end (towards the foot end of the bed). The pivotal attachment point, and therefore the direction of rotation of the neck and lumbar support slats is selected to correspond to the respective neck and lumbar regions of the occupant when lying on the mattress support platform of the bed.

[0293] When driven by the actuator 421 , the neck support slat assembly 416i rotates between flat and raised positions relative to the adjacent fixed support slat 416h and to the side bar 127ghi due to the fixed support slat assembly 416h being secured relative to the side bar 127ghi. Similarly, when driven by the actuator 423, the lumbar support slat assembly 416g rotates between flat and raised positions relative to the adjacent fixed support slat assembly 416h. In alternative embodiments, the neck and lumbar support slats can move linearly as opposed to rotationally between flat and raised positions relative to the adjacent fixed support slats or a combination of linear and rotational movement.

[0294] It will be understood that rotation of the neck support slat assembly 416i is independent to the rotation of the lumbar support slat assembly 416g, and rotation of the neck support slat assembly 416i and the lumbar support slat assembly 416g is independent of the angular movement of the back support section 420 between lowered and fully raised positions. It will be further understood that the neck support slat assembly 416i and the lumbar support slat assembly 416g rotate relative to an adjacent support slat assembly 416h provided on the same support section 420.

[0295] The central support slats 428 and the extending support slats 430a, 430b have a curved or rounded upper edge profile as described in relation to bed 10 which is beneficial as it ensures a smooth engagement with a mattress (not shown) when being moved between the flat and raised positions and prevents the mattress from snagging or catching the slats.

[0296] The bed 410 further include a mattress retainer 439 which prevents the mattress (not shown) from substantially moving in the longitudinal direction L beyond the foot end of the bed when the support platform 414 is being raised and lowered.

[0297] In contrast to beds 110 to 310, the roller 478 rolls in a slot 421 of the side bar 427ghi instead of along the track of the side bar to lower and raise the back support section 420 (Figure 49).

[0298] The support platform 414 of the bed 410 is angularly adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110 between lowered (Figure 46) and raised (Figure 51) positions.

[0299] The bed 410 is moved from the retracted position (Figure 46) to the extended position (Figure 51) in the same way as described in relation to bed 110.

[0300] It will be understood that the adjustable lumbar support slat, and the adjustable neck support slat can be used on any of the adjustable beds where discrete slats are provided on the back support section. It will also be understood that the adjustable lumbar support slat, and the adjustable neck support slat can be used on any adjustable bed, and not limited to adjustable beds where the mattress support sections can be adjusted between retracted and extended positions. In beds having slats described without rounded edges as part of the cross-sectional profile, the slats can be modified to include a rounded edge, or an additional element can be added such that the modified slat or the additional element with the rounded edge engages smoothly with the mattress when moving between flat and raised positions.

[0301] In Figure 51 , it can be seen that an extended foot end rail 417E and an extended head end rail 419E have been added to the frame 412 when the bed is in the extended position (Figure 51) to replace the foot 417 and head 419 end rails when the bed is in the retracted position (Figure 46). The head end rail 419E and the foot end rail 417E have a lateral width WF / H in the extended position which is greater than a lateral width WSR defined by a lateral distance between the left 415b and right 415a side rails when in the retracted position.

[0302] The retracted position in bed 410 corresponds to a mattress support platform which can support a single (3 foot) or double (4 foot 6 inch) mattress, and the extended position corresponds to a mattress support platform which can support any mattress greater than a 4 foot 6 inch mattress (5 foot, 6 foot, or 6 foot 4 inch).

[0303] In the extended position (Figure 51), the foot 417E and the head 419E end rails have been extended to a width which is sufficient to prevent the bed 410 from becoming unstable or tipping when under the load of a mattress and an occupant. By tipping, it is meant that the legs 413a,d on one side of the bed remain in contact with the surface S when a maximum expected load of mattress and occupant(s) is applied vertically above the legs 413b,c on the opposite lateral side of the bed 410.

[0304] It will be understood that the extended side rail of bed 410 can be used on any of the embodiments described in Figures 1 to 45 and 52 to 127.

[0305] In Figures 52 to 54 an alternative bed 510 is shown which is identical to the bed 410 described in relation to Figures 46 to 51 except that the legs 513a,b,c,d on each corner include a stabiliser 515a,b,c,d positioned on their lower free ends to provide additional vertical support to the bed 510 when the extending support sections 530a, b are pulled out to the extended position in the same way as the extended head and end rails of bed 410 provide support. Each stabiliser 515a,b,c,d extends laterally outwardly, and has a length, typically 6 inches (150mm), which is sufficient to prevent the bed 510 from becoming unstable or tipping when under the load of a mattress and an occupant. By tipping, it is meant that the stabilisers 515a, c on one side of the bed remain in contact with the surface S when a maximum expected load of mattress and occupant(s) is applied vertically above the stabiliser 515b,d on the opposite lateral side of the bed 510.

[0306] It will be understood that the stabilisers 515a,b,c,d of bed 510 can be used on any of the embodiments described in Figures 1 to 51 and 55 to 127.

[0307] In Figures 55 to 61 an alternative bed 610 is shown (without legs) which is identical to the bed 110 described in relation to Figures 12 to 37 except as described below.

[0308] The bed 610 comprises a plurality of mattress support elements in the form of a plurality of slat assemblies 616. Each slat assembly 616 includes a central support section in the form of a central support slat 628, an extending section including a first extending support section 630a and a second extending support section 630b.

[0309] The first extending support section 630a comprises a first tube 630ai and a second tube 630a2, and the second extending support section 630b comprises a first tube 630bi and a second tube 630b2. Each tube is hollow and has a circular cross-sectional profile. The first tubes 630ai,630bi have an external diameter which is smaller than an internal diameter of the second tubes 630a2,630b2 to enable the first tube 630ai of the first extending support section 630a to be inserted inside the second tube 630b2 of the second extending support section 630b and the first tube 630bi of the second extending support section 630b to be inserted inside the second tube 630a2 of the first extending support section 630a.

[0310] In Figures 56 and 57, the first extending support section 630a includes a handle 685a which receives and connects a distal end of each of the first 630ai and second 630a2 tubes and a handle 685b which receives and connects a distal end of each of the first 630bi and second 630b2 tubes. Once connected, the first 630a and second 630b extending support sections define a U-shaped plan profile. Each slat assembly 616 further comprises four identical support blocks, two outboard support blocks 633a, b and two inboard support blocks 633ai,bi. Each support block 633a,ai,b,bi includes two apertures 686 with a diameter sized to receive the second tubes 630a2,630b2 of the first 630a and second 630b extending support sections (Figures 59 to 61).

[0311] Each of the outboard support blocks 633a, 633b are secured to and at each end of the central support slat 628, and the two inboard support blocks 633ai,bi, are secured to and inboard from each end of the central support slat 628 using fasteners (not shown) passing through holes 634 (Figure 58), part-way, in this embodiment, approximately a quarter of the way from each end of the central support slat 628.

[0312] Each of the two inboard support blocks 633ai,bi is positioned such that in the extended position (Figure 61 ), part of the first 630ai and second 630a2 tube of the first extending support section 630a extends laterally inboard and beyond the inboard support block 633ai, and part of the first 630ai and second 630a2 tube of the second extending support section 630b extends laterally inboard and beyond the inboard support block 633bi. It can be seen therefore that part of the first 630a and second 630b extending support sections extend laterally inboard of their respective inboard support blocks 633ai,bi, and their respective outboard support blocks 633a, 633b of the central support slat 628. It can also be seen that all four tubes 630a2,630b2, 630ai,630bi of the extending support sections 630a, 630b are fully housed within or inside their respective support blocks 633a ,ai, b, bi of the central support slat 628 (Figures 53 and 55).

[0313] In the retracted position (Figure 60), the bed 610 has a lateral width WR. It can be seen that the first tube 630ai of the first extending support section 630a is inserted inside and fully housed by the second tube 630b2 of the second extending support section 630b and the first tube 630bi of the second extending support section 630b is inserted inside and fully enclosed by the second tube 630a2 of the first extending support section 630a. It can also be seen that part (tubes 630ai, 630a2) of the first extending support section 630a laterally overlaps with part (tubes 630bi, 630b2) of the second extending support section 630b. By laterally overlapping, and respective tubes of the first 630a and second 630 extending support sections being inserted inside each other as described above, the first 630a and the second 630b extending support sections are considered to be interlocked with each other.

[0314] In addition to both the first 630a and the second 630b extending support sections being interlocked with each other in the retracted position, part of the first 630a and the second 630b extending support sections extend laterally inboard of their respective inboard support blocks 633ai,bi, and their respective outboard support blocks 633a, 633b of the central support slat 628. It can also be seen that all four tubes 630a2,630b2, 630ai,630bi of the extending support sections 630a, 630b are inside their respective support blocks 633a ,ai, b, bi of the central support slat 628 (Figures 55 and 60).

[0315] The lateral width of the support platform 614 of the bed 610 is adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110 by pulling on the handles 685a, 685b until the bed 610 has an extended lateral width WE.

[0316] In Figures 64 and 65, a catch assembly 635 includes a catch 637 which locates inside the outboard support block 633b (shown with top cover removed in Figure 65) and a spring 638 which biases the catch 637 towards the first tube 630b2 of the second extending support section 630b. Pulling the catch 637 away from the first tube 630b2 disengages the catch 637 from one of the holes 636 in the first tube 630b2 allowing the second extending support section 630a to be moved relative the support block 633b of the central support slat 628 and engages with another of the holes 636 according to the desired extended lateral width WE required. An identical catch 635 is provided on the outboard support block 633b.

[0317] In the extended position (Figure 61), the first tube 630ai of the first extending support section 630a is separated from the second tube 630b2 of the second extending support section 630b by a lateral distance SE, and the first tube 630bi of the second extending support section 630b is separated from the second tube 630a2 of the first extending support section 630a by a lateral distance SE such that the first 630a and the second 630b extending support sections do not overlap laterally and are therefore not interlocked as in the retracted position. In the extended position, part of the first 630a and the second 630b extending support sections extend laterally inboard of their respective inboard support blocks 633ai,bi, and their respective outboard support blocks 633a, 633b of the central support slat 628 as in the retraced position such that the first 630a and the second 630b extending support sections are supported by the support blocks 633a,b,ai,bi when under the load of a mattress and an associated occupant.

[0318] The support platform 614 of the bed 610 is angularly adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110.

[0319] In Figures 66 and 67 an alternative bed 710 is shown (without legs) which is identical to the bed 610 except as described below.

[0320] In contrast to bed 610, only one central support block 733c is provided on the central support slat 728 of the slat assembly 716, instead of two inboard support blocks.

[0321] In the extended position (Figure 67), the first tube 730bi of the second extending support section 630b is inserted inside and fully housed by the second tube 630a2 of the first extending support section 730a. It can also be seen that part (tube 730bi) of the second extending support section 730b laterally overlaps with part (tube 730a2) of the first extending support section 730a. By laterally overlapping, and being enclosed relative to each other, the first 730a and the second 730b extending support sections are considered to be interlocked with each other in the extended position (in contrast to bed 610) and in the retracted position (as in bed 610).

[0322] It will be understood that, in contrast to bed 610, only the central support block 733c is required to support the first 730a and second 730b extending support sections when in the extended position due to the fact that the first 730a and the second 730b extending support sections are interlocked.

[0323] In Figures 68 to 76, an alternative bed 810 is shown which is identical to the bed 710 described in relation to Figures 66 and 67, but employs a similar telescopic arrangement of described in relation to the bed 310 shown in Figures 41 to 45 to extend the platform 814. The bed 810 comprises a plurality of mattress support elements in the form of a plurality of slat assemblies 816. Each slat assembly 816 includes a central support section in the form of a central support slat 828, an extending section including a first extending support section 830a and a second extending support section 830b.

[0324] The first extending support section 830a comprising an inner section 830ainner and an outer section 830aOuter, and a second extending support section 830b comprising an inner section 830binner and an outer section 830bouter which are identical to the inner and outer sections of the first extending support section 830a.

[0325] The inner sections 830ainner,830binner each comprise two inner tubes 830ai,830bi.

[0326] The outer sections 830aOuter,830bouter each comprise two outer tubes 830a2,830b2.

[0327] Each of the inner and outer tubes 830ai,830bi,830a2,830b2 are hollow and have a circular cross-sectional profile.

[0328] The inner tubes 830ai,830bi have an external diameter which is smaller than an internal diameter of the outer tubes 830a2,830b2 to enable the inner sections 830ainner,830binner to be inserted inside the outer sections 830aOuter,830bouter.

[0329] In the retracted position (Figures 68 to 73, with the inner and outer sections separated to show relative lateral positions), the bed 810 has a lateral width WR. In Figures 72 and 73 it can be seen that the inner tubes 830ai,830bi are inserted inside and fully enclosed by the outer tubes 830a2,830b2. It can also be seen that the first 830a and second 830b extending support sections do not overlap with each other, and are separated by a lateral distance SR in the retracted position and therefore not interlocked with each other (Figure 71).

[0330] In addition to both the first 830a and the second 830b extending support sections not being interlocked with each other in the retracted position, in Figure 62 it can be seen that the inner sections 830ainner,830binner and the outer sections 830aOuter,830bouter of the first extending support section 830a and the second extending support section 830b are fully housed by the central support slat 828.

[0331] The lateral width of the support platform 814 of the bed 810 is adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 610 except in this embodiment, the movement of the first 830a and the second 830b extending support sections is telescopic movement in that both extending support sections 830a, 830b each require the movement of the outer sections 830aOuter,830bouter relative to the central support slat 828, and the inner sections 830ainner,830binner relative to the outer sections 830aOuter,830bouter until the desired extended lateral width WE is obtained.

[0332] In bed 810, the outer tubes 830a2,830b2 of the first 830a and the second 830b extending support sections slide within a channel 831 of the central support slat 828 rather than within the support blocks 633 in the embodiment of the bed 610. The first 830a and the second 830b extending support sections are therefore vertically supported by the central support slats 828.

[0333] In Figures 75 and 76, each outer tube 830a2,830b2 houses a catch 833 which engages with a hole 834 of the central support slat 828 to locate and releasably lock each outer tube 830a2,830b2 relative to the central support slat 828. Each inner tube 830ai,830bi includes a catch 835 which engages with one of the holes 837 in the outer tube 830a2,830b2to locate and releasably lock each inner tube 830ai,830bi relative to each outer tube 830a2,830b2 according to the desired extended lateral width WE required.

[0334] In the extended position (Figures 74 and 75), the first 830a and second 830 extending support sections are separated from each other by a lateral distance SE, and therefore do not overlap laterally and are not interlocked.

[0335] In the extended position, the first 830a and second 830 extending support sections are partially housed in the lateral direction L in the central support slat 828 by virtue of the outer sections 830aOuter,830bouter being partially housed in the lateral direction L in the central support slat 828. The first 830a and second 830 extending support sections are fully housed by the central support slat 828 by virtue of the outer sections 830aOuter,830bouter being fully housed by the central support slat 828. The support platform 814 of the bed 810 is angularly adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110.

[0336] In Figures 77 to 82, an alternative bed 910 is shown (without legs) which is identical to the bed 710 except as described below.

[0337] In contrast to bed 710, the central support block 933c of the slat assembly 916 comprises four holes 986 through which the first 930ai and second 930a2 tubes of the first extending support section 930a and the first 930bi and second 930b2 tubes of the second extending support section 930b are received (Figure 79 with central support slat 928 removed). The two outboard support blocks 933a, b also have four holes. The two holes 986 of the outboard support block 933a receive the first 930bi and second 930b2 tubes of the second extending support section 930b, and the two holes 986 the outboard support block 933b receives the first 930ai and second 930a2 tubes of the first extending support section 930a.

[0338] In the retracted position (Figures 78 and 79), the tubes 930ai,930a2 of the first extending support section 930a do not locate inside and are therefore housed by the tubes 930bi,930b2 of the second extending support section 930b. Instead, the first 930a and second 930b extending support sections are positioned in different holes of the central support block 933c such that the tubes 930ai,930a2 of the first extending support section are offset or staggered relative to each other in the longitudinal direction W by a distance Ls. The first 930a and second 930b extending support sections are considered to laterally overlap each other by virtue of the staggered arrangement rather than by one of the first or second extending support sections being inserted inside the other of the first or second extending support sections.

[0339] In the extended position (Figures 81 and 82), the first 930a and second 930b extending support sections do not laterally overlap each and are separated at their free ends by a lateral distance SE. Accordingly, the first 930a and second 930b extending support sections are not interlocked, and are therefore only supported by engagement with the central support block 933c and the two outboard support blocks 933a, b. In Figures 83 to 86, an alternative bed 1010 is shown which is identical to the bed 110 except as described below.

[0340] The slat assembly 1016 includes end caps 1048 which are inserted into the free open ends of the first 1030a and the second 1030b extending support sections and include an integrated linkage 1050.

[0341] The linkage 1050 includes an aperture 1052 towards one end and a projection 1054 towards the other end. The projection 1054 is sized such that it can locate inside the protrusion 1054 of an adjacent end cap 1048’ and enable pivotal movement between the two adjacent end caps 1048,1048’ and the adjacent extending sections 1030a, 1030b into which they are inserted.

[0342] In Figures 87 to 96, an alternative bed 1110 is shown (without legs) which is identical to the bed 110 except as described below.

[0343] The mattress support platform 1114 includes a plurality of, in this embodiment five, mattress support elements in the form of slat assemblies 1116a-e. In contrast to beds 110 to 1010, each of the mattress support sections (1118,1120,1122,1124,1126) include only one of the slat assemblies 1116a-e.

[0344] Each slat assembly 1116 includes a central support section in the form of a central support slat 1128, an extending section comprising a first extending support section in the form of a first extending support slat 1130a, and a second extending support section in the form of a second extending support slat 1130b, a first panel 1132a and a second panel 1132b. The first 1132a and second 1132b panels are identical and typically made from a rigid material such as plywood, with a thickness of about 4mm. Each of the central support slats 1128 is secured at each end to the parallel side bars 1127 on the respective support section in the same way as in bed 110.

[0345] The first extending support slat 1130a is sized such that it can be located inside and slide within the second extending support slat 1130b. Both the first extending support slat 1130a and the second extending support slat 1130b are sized such that they locate inside and slide within the central support slat 1128. The first panel 1132a is fixed to the first extending support slat 1130a and the second panel 1132b is fixed to the second extending support slat 1130b such that sliding outboard lateral movement of the first extending support slat 1132a and the second extending support slat 1132b relative to the central support slat 1128 pulls the first 1132a and second 1132b panels in opposite lateral directions from a retracted position (Figures 87 to 89) to an extended position (Figures 91 to 96).

[0346] In both the retracted and extended positions, the first 1132a and second 1132b panels are vertically misaligned (in the direction of arrow V) such that the first 1132a panel is positioned on top of the second 1132b panel and such that both panels 1132a, 1132b can slide relative to each other (Figure 88).

[0347] In the retracted position, the first panel 1132a and the second panel 1132b laterally overlap at their free ends such that a free end of the first panel 1132a extends laterally outboard of a free end of the second panel 1132b, and the other free end of the second panel 1132b extends laterally outboard of the other free end of the first panel 1132a, both by a distance SPR (Figures 87 and 88).

[0348] In the retracted position (Figures 87 to 89) the first extending support slat 1130a is both inserted inside and laterally overlapping with the second extending support slat 1130b such that the first extending support slat 1130a and the second extending support slat 1130b are interlocked with each other.

[0349] The bed 1110 is moved from the retracted position to the extended position in the same way as described in relation to bed 10 to 1010 except that the user pulls directly on the panels 1132a, 1132b.

[0350] In the extended position (Figures 91 to 96), the first 1130a and second 1130b extending support slats do not laterally overlap each other and are separated at their free ends by a lateral distance S. Accordingly, the first 1130a and second 1130a extending support slats are not interlocked, and are therefore only vertically supported by engagement with the central support slat 1128. In the extended position (Figure 95), the inboard free ends of the first 1132a and second 1132b panel laterally overlap by a distance SPE.

[0351] The support platform 1114 of the bed 1110 is angularly adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110.

[0352] It will be understood that in bed 1110, each of the support sections 1118,1120,1122, 1124,1126 comprise a single panel spanning the longitudinal length L, as opposed to beds 110 to 1010 (with the exception of the fixed seat support section), which comprise multiple longitudinally spaced slats on each support section.

[0353] It will be further understood that in bed 1110, the seat support section 1118, the mattress bend support section 1122 and the thigh support section 1124 are supported and extended by a single central support slat 1128 and extending support slats 1130a, 1130b, whereas back support section 1120 and foot support section 1126 are supported and extended by two central support slats 1128 and two extending support slats 1130a, 1130b (Figures 91 and 92). In alternative embodiments, one or all of the support sections can be supported and extended by a single or two central support slats and extending support slats.

[0354] In Figures 97 to 103, an alternative bed 1210 is shown (without legs) which is identical to the bed 1110 except as described below.

[0355] Each slat assembly 1216 includes a central support section in the form of a central support slat 1228, an extending section comprising a first extending support section in the form of a first extending support slat 1230a, and a second extending support section in the form of a second extending support slat 1230b, a first panel 1232a, a second panel 1232b and a central panel 1232c .

[0356] The central panel 1232c is fixed to the central support slat 1228. The first panel 1232a is fixed to the first extending support slat 1230a and the second panel 1232b is fixed to the second extending support slat 1230b as in bed 1110 such that sliding outboard lateral movement of the first extending support slat 1232a and the second extending support slat 1232b relative to the central support panel 1232c pulls the first 1232a and second 1232b panels in opposite lateral directions from a retracted position (Figures 97 to 100) to an extended position (Figures 100 to 103).

[0357] In the retracted position, the first 1232a, second 1232b, and central 1232 panels are vertically misaligned such that the first panel 1232a is positioned on top of the second panel 1232b and the second panel 1232 is positioned on top the central panel 1232 such all panels 1232a, 1232b, 1232c can slide relative to each other when moving between the retracted (Figures 97 to 100) and extended positions (Figures 101 to 103).

[0358] In the retracted position, the first panel 1232a and the second panel 1232b laterally overlap at their inboard free ends (Figure 99).

[0359] The bed 1210 is moved from the retracted position to the extended position in the same way as described in relation to bed 1110 except that the first panel 1232a and the second panel 1232b are pulled such they move laterally outboard relative to the fixed central panel 1232c.

[0360] The support platform 1214 of the bed 1310 is angularly adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110.

[0361] In Figures 104 to 108, an alternative bed 1310 is shown (without legs) which is identical to the bed 1110 except as described below.

[0362] The first 1332a and second 1332b panels are not made from a rigid material as in beds 1110,1210 but from a soft material such as a fabric. As a result, there is no requirement that each mattress support section 1318,1320,1324,1326) has a dedicated and separate rigid panel to allow relative angular movement between adjacent panels. Instead, each of the first 1332a and second 1332b panels is a single fabric sheet.

[0363] Furthermore, by not having rigid panels on each support section 1318,1320,1324,1326, there is no requirement for a mattress bend support section between the back support section 1320 and the fixed seat section 1318. The bed 1310 is moved from the retracted position to the extended position in the same way as described in relation to bed 1110 by lateral outward movement of the first 1330a and second 1330b extension slats relative to the central support slat 1328.

[0364] The support platform 1314 of the bed 1310 is angularly adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110.

[0365] In Figures 109 to 111 , an alternative bed 1410 is shown which is identical to the bed 1210 of Figures 89 to 94 except that the first panel 1432a, the second panel 1432b and the central panel 1432c are not made from a rigid material but from a soft material such as a fabric. Bed 1410 differs from bed 1210 in the same way that bed 1310 differs from bed 1110.

[0366] The bed 1410 is moved from the retracted position to the extended position in the same way as described in relation to bed 1210.

[0367] The support platform 1414 of the bed 1410 is angularly adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110.

[0368] In Figures 112 to 121 , an alternative bed 1510 is shown which is identical to the bed 610 of Figures 55 to 65 except as described below.

[0369] Each slat assembly 1516 includes a central support section in the form of a central support slat 1528, an extending section including a first extending support section 1530a, a second extending support section 1530b, and a cross-tube 1531.

[0370] The first extending support section 1530a comprises two parallel spaced hollow circular tubes 1530ai and the second extending support section 1530b comprises two parallel spaced hollow circular tubes 1530a2 extruded from plastic. The tubes 1530ai of the first extending support section 1530a have an external diameter which is smaller than an internal diameter of the tubes 1530bi of the second extending support section 1530b to enable the first extending support section 1530a to be inserted inside the second extending support section 1530b. In Figures 114 to 117, the central support slat 1528 is extruded from plastic and defined by a hollow cross-section which includes strengthening ribs 1555, a pair of parallel spaced circular through apertures 1533 sized to receive the tubes 1530bi of the second extending support section 1530b, and a part-circular recess 1534 sized to receive the cross-tube 1531. Each central support slat 1528 is fixed at either end to the side member 1527.

[0371] In the retracted position (Figures 103 to 107), the tubes 1530ai of the first extending support section 1530a are inserted inside and fully housed by the tubes 1530b2 of the second extending support section 1530b. It can also be seen that part (tubes 1530ai) of the first extending support section 1530a laterally overlaps with part (tubes 1530b2) of the second extending support section 1530b. By laterally overlapping, and one tube being inserted inside the other, the first 1530a and the second 1530b extending support sections are considered to be interlocked with each other.

[0372] The lateral width of the support platform 1514 of the bed 1510 is adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110.

[0373] In the extended position (Figures 118 to 121), the end of the first tube 1530ai of the first extending support section 1530a laterally overlaps with the second tube 1530b2 of the second extending support section 1530b by a lateral distance O. In addition, the tubes 1530ai of the first extending support section 1530a remain inserted inside and fully housed by the tubes 1530b2 of the second extending support section 1530b such that the first 1530a and the second 1530b extending support sections are interlocked in the extended position. In alternative embodiments, the first and second extending support sections need not be interlocked in the extended position to provide the necessary vertical support.

[0374] The support platform 1514 of the bed 1510 is angularly adjusted in the same way as described in relation to bed 110.

[0375] In Figures 122 and 124, an alternative bed 1610 is shown (without legs) which is identical to the bed 1110, but the mattress support platform 1614 is not angularly adjustable in the same way that the mattress support platform 14 of bed 10 is not angularly adjustable. In contrast to bed 1110 where first and second panels are provided on each mattress support section to enable that angular adjustment between mattress support sections, the mattress support platform 1614 of bed 1610 comprises only a single first panel 1632a and single second panel 1632b which slides relative to each other to move the bed 1610 between retracted (Figure 122) and extended (Figure 123) positions.

[0376] An alternative bed 1710 is identical to bed 1110 but instead of separate panels 1132a, 1132b, the mattress support platform 1714 is covered by a unitary or single cover 1732 which is attached to free outboard ends of the first and second extending support sections such that the cover substantially covers the mattress support platform. The cover is folded onto itself in the retracted position to create fold lines 1732F such that, in operation, the cover 1732 unfolds as the first and second extending support sections are moved to the extended width.

[0377] In bed 1710, the cover 1732 is folded twice. It will be appreciated any number of fold can be used to enable the cover to expand as the bed moves to the extended position.

[0378] In bed 1710, mattress support platform 1714 is angularly adjustable. In alternative embodiments the mattress support platform need not be angularly adjustable (as bed 10).

[0379] An alternative bed 1810 is identical to bed 410 but instead of replacing the head and foot end rail used in the retracted position with an extended width head and foot end rail in the extended position, the bed 1810 includes a head end rail 1819 and a foot end rail 1817 which are both laterally extendable.

[0380] The head end rail 1819 comprises a fixed central section 1819c and two extending sections 1 819E.

[0381] The foot end rail 1817 comprises a fixed central section 1817c and two extending sections 1 817E. Both sections 1817E, 1819E are laterally extendable relative to the fixed central section 1817c, 1819c to adjust the frame 1812 between a frame retracted position (Figure 126) which corresponds to supporting a mattress in the retracted position, and a frame extended position which corresponds to supporting a mattress in the extended position.

[0382] In the frame extended position (Figure 127), the legs 1813 have a greater lateral width compared to the frame retracted position (Figure 126) which is sufficient to prevent the bed 1810 from becoming unstable or tipping when under the load of a mattress and an occupant.

[0383] It will be understood that the extended side rail of bed 410 can be used on any of the embodiments described in Figures 1 to 125.

[0384] In bed 1820, the side rails 1815a, 1815d remain stationary when the head end rail 1819 and the foot end rail 1817 are laterally extended. In alternative embodiments, the lateral movement of the head end rail and the foot end rails can be fixed to the side rails such that movement of the head end rail and the foot end rail in the lateral directions also moves the left side rail and the right side rail in the lateral direction.

[0385] An alternative bed 1910 is shown in Figures 128 to 143.

[0386] The bed 1910 is identical to bed 410 described above in Figures 46 to 51 other than the differences identified below.

[0387] In Figures 129 and 130 (with two covers 1928 removed and the first extending support slat 1930a moved to the left for clarity), the slat assemblies 1916a-i are identical to slat assemblies 416a-i except that the extruded aluminium central support slat 1928 includes a reinforcing rib 1929 to define a closed section 1930 within the open cross- sectional profile thereby providing additional rigidity to the aluminium central support slat 1928. The closed section 1930 includes the through holes 1944.

[0388] In Figures 130 to 135, the first extending support slat 1930a and the second extending support slat 1930b also differ from those of bed 410 in that the first and second extending support slats 1930a, 1930b are plastic mouldings rather than aluminium extrusions.

[0389] Each of the first and second extending support slats 1930a, 1930b have a cross- sectional profile which enables them to slidably locate inside the aluminium central support slat 1928.

[0390] Each of the first and second extending support slats 1930a, 1930b includes a lateral projection 1931a,b such that the lateral projection 1931 a of the first extending support slat 1930a locates inside a corresponding aperture 1932b of the second extending support slat 1930b and the lateral projection 1931 b of the second extending support slat 1930b locates inside a corresponding aperture 1932b of the second extending support slat 1930b when the bed is in the retracted position of Figure 130 and 132 (with the first extending support slat 1930a moved to the left for clarity). In the extended position (Figure 131 with one cover 1928 removed for clarity), the lateral projections 1931 a, 1931 b do not locate inside corresponding apertures 1932a, 1932b, but it will be appreciated that each lateral projection 1931 a, b extends the length of the extending support slates 1930a,b to provide more cantilevered support when the bed is in the extended position.

[0391] In Figures 132 to 135, each of the first and second extending support slats 1930a, 1930b further includes an aperture 1933 extending in the lateral direction, into which, a steel support bar 1934 is inserted to provide additional rigidity to the first and second extending support slats 1930a, 1930b.

[0392] In Figures 140 to 144, each of the first and second extending support slats 1930a, 1930b further includes a plurality of integrated catches 1922, the number of catches corresponding to the number of lateral bed extension positions. The catches 1922 are integrally moulded with the first and second extending support slats 1930,1930b and are sufficiently flexible such that when the first and second extending support slats 1930a, 1930b are moved between pre-set retracted and extended lateral width positions, the side members 1927e locate inside holes 1923 to releasably retain the first and second extending support slats 1930,1930b of slat assembly 1916e. The first and second extending support slats 1930,1930b are released by pressing the catch vertically upwards (with the bed in normal use) to disengage the side members 1927e from the holes 1923. It will be understood that the first and second extending support slats of slat assemblies 1916a to 1916i are retained in the same way.

[0393] In Figures 136 to 139, the two parallel side support members 1927e are integrated with the frame 1912 rather than a separate component 427e which is connected to the frame 412 (Figure 51).

[0394] The mattress support platform 1914 includes a seat support section 1918, a back support section 1920, a thigh support section 1924 and a foot support section 1926. In contrast to bed 410, the mattress support platform 1914 does not include a mattress bend support section between the seat support section 1918 and the back support section 1920.

[0395] The seat support section 1918 includes two slat assemblies 1916e, 1916f (Figure 137) in contrast to the single slat assembly 416e of bed 410.

[0396] The slat assembly 1916e is angularly fixed to the side support members 1927e in the same way as the slat assembly 416e of bed 410.

[0397] The lumbar slat assembly 1916f functions in the same as the slat assembly 416g to the extent it can rotate relative to adjacent slat assemblies 1916f and 1916g independently of the angular adjustment of mattress support sections 1918 and 1920. In contrast to the lumbar support slat assembly 416g which is pivotally attached to the back support section 420, the lumbar support assembly 191 f is firstly pivotally attached to the side support members 1927e of the seat support section 1918, secondly is pivotally attached to the side support members 1927e via an extension bracket 1919, and thirdly pivots in the opposite direction (anti-clockwise when viewing Figure 137).

[0398] The lumbar support actuator 1923 has a first end (motor and gear box end) pivotally connected to the slat assembly 1916e of the seat support section 1918.

[0399] The neck support slat assembly 1916i is identical to the neck support slat assembly 416i other than it is pivotally attached to the side support members 1927g h i of the back support section 1920 support members 1927e via an extension bracket 1919 identical to that pivotally attaching the lumbar slat assembly 1816f to the side support members 1927e.

[0400] The provision of extension brackets 1919 moves the hinge point from the slat assembly to the extension bracket and thereby increases the distance by which the lumbar 1916f and the neck 1916i support slat assemblies can pivot to provide more support compared to the lumbar 416g and the neck 416i support slat assemblies of bed 410 which are directly pivotally connected at a hinge point on the side members 427ghi.

[0401] The neck support actuator 1921 is connected in the same was as the neck support actuator 421 .

[0402] Operation of bed 1940 is identical to bed 410 other than those differences identified above.

[0403] In the above described embodiments, it will be understood that the central support section are rigidly connected to the parallel side members of each mattress support section and that it is the central support sections together with extending support sections which provide direct support to an associated flexible mattress and occupant(s) without the need for an additional support structure, such as a rigid, e.g. wood, platform between the mattress and the central support and extending support sections.

[0404] In Figures 144 to 147, it can be seen that, for bed 10, a total area of the mattress support elements 16 in contact with an associated mattress 500 is equal to or greater than a total area defined between the mattress support elements 16 and in contact with the associated mattress 500. This ensures the plurality of mattress support elements 16 support the associated mattress. It will be understood that not all of the mattress 500 is in contact with the mattress support elements 16 (compare Figures 146 and 147), that is, the mattress 500 extends both longitudinally and laterally beyond the bed 10 defined by the mattress support elements 16. It will also be understood that the central support sections are laterally fixed, that is, they are not required to, and do not laterally move when the bed is moved between retracted and extended positions. That is, lateral extension of the bed is provided by the extending support sections.

[0405] By fixing the central support sections to the side members of each mattress support section, the rigidity of the mattress support sections is increased, thereby providing more support to the mattress.

[0406] By laterally fixing the central support sections, the mattress is better supported, even when the bed is laterally extended.

[0407] In the above described embodiments, the adjustable mattress support platforms of the beds are made from aluminium, steel or plastic or a combination thereof. It will be appreciated that each of the embodiments can be made from aluminium, steel or plastic providing the cross-sections profiles are designed with sufficient thicknesses and shapes, possible including strengthening portions, to support the load of the mattress and occupant(s) when in the extended position.

[0408] Not all of the above embodiments have been described with reference to catches to releasably lock the extending support sections in the retracted and the extended position. It will be understood that all of the embodiments can include catches, whether or not described, as is known in the art, to releasably lock the extending support sections in the retracted and the extended position. As an alternative, the central support section and the extending support sections can be provided with coincident holes at pre-set lateral widths, into which a releasable fastener, such as a rivet or screw, can be inserted to prevent lateral movement between the extending support sections and the central support section once the desired lateral width has been obtained. As a further alternative, only the central support section can be provided with holes, through which a fastener, such as a set or grub screw, can be inserted through to engage with the extending support sections to prevent lateral movement due to the friction therebetween. In the above embodiments, a seat support section has been described. In alternative embodiments, the bed may not need a seat support section, with the mattress bend support section (if present) or the back support section (if the mattress bend support section is not present) being pivotally connected to the thigh support section, with the pivotal connection being provided on and fixed to the side rails of the frame of the bed.

[0409] The above embodiments have been described with and without reference to legs. It will be understood that all of the above described embodiments can be used with legs as a standalone piece of furniture, or without legs where the frame of the bed is combined with and installed into an existing bed structure such as a bed surround, bed divan, or box spring.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A bed (10) comprising a frame (12) and a mattress support platform (14) configured to support, preferably directly support, an associated mattress and occupant(s), in which the mattress support platform (14) is laterally adjustable relative to the frame (12) between a retracted position and an extended position having a lateral width (WE) greater than a lateral width (WR) in the retracted position.

2. A bed (10) according to claim 1 in which the mattress support platform (14) comprises a plurality of discrete mattress support elements (16).

3. A bed (110) according to claim 1 or 2 in which the mattress support platform (114) comprises a plurality of mattress support sections (118,120,122,124,126), in which at least one of the plurality of mattress support sections (120,122,124,126) is pivotally mounted with respect to another of the plurality of mattress support sections (118,120,122,124,126) for relative angular adjustment.

4. A bed (110) according to claim 3 in which at least two, preferably all adjacent mattress support sections are pivotally connected to each other.

5. A bed (110) according to claims 3 or 4 in which the mattress support sections comprise one or more of a seat support section (118), a back support section (120), a mattress bend support section (122), a thigh support section (124) and a foot support section (126).

6. A bed (110) according to claim 5 in which the seat support section (118) is fixed relative to the frame (12) or to an intermediate support carriage which is translationally moveable relative to the frame.

7. A bed (110) according to claim 5 or 6 in which the mattress bend support section (122) is positioned between the seat support section (118) and the back support section (120) or between the thigh support section (124) and the back support section (120).

8. A bed (110) according to any one of claims 3 to 7 when dependent on claim 2 in which at least one, preferably each of the plurality of mattress support sections (118,120,122,124,126) includes at least one of the plurality of mattress support elements (116).

9. A bed (110) according to claim 8 in which at least one of the plurality of mattress support elements (116) is independently laterally movable relative to the other mattress support elements (116).

10. A bed (110) according to claim 8 or 9, in which each of the mattress support sections (118, 120,122,124,126) further comprise a pair of side members (127) rigidly connected to each other by one or more of the mattress support elements (116).

11. A bed (110) according to claim 10 in which adjacent side members (127a-i) are pivotally connected to each other at a pivot point (PP).

12. A bed (10,110) according to claim 2, or any one of claims 3 to 11 when dependent on claim 2, the mattress support elements (16) comprise a laterally fixed central support section (28), and an extending support section (30), in which the extending support section (30) is movable, preferably slidingly movable relative to the central support section (28) to support the mattress in the extended position.

13. A bed (10,110) according to claim 12 in which the extending support section (30) is telescopically movable relative to the central support section.

14. A bed (10,110) according to claim 12 or 13 in which the central support section (28) is defined by a non-continuous cross-sectional profile.

15. A bed (10,110) according to any one of claims 12 to 14 in which the extending support section (30) is supported by, preferably vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the central support section (28) when in the extended position, preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the central support section (28) preferably inserted inside the central support section (28).

16. A bed (10,110) according to any one of claims 12 to 15 in which the extending support section (30) at least partially, preferably fully overlaps in the lateral direction (W) with the central support section (28) in the retracted position.

17. A bed (10,110) according to any one of claims 12 to 16 in which the extending support section (30) at least partially overlaps in the lateral direction (W) with the central support section (28) in the extended position.

18. A bed (10,110) according any one of claims 12 to 17 in which the extending support section (30) is cantilevered when in the extended position.

19. A bed (10,110) according to claim any one of claims 12 to 18, the extending support section (30) comprises a first extending support section (30a) and a second extending support section (30b) in which the first extending support section (30a) is movably extendable from the central support section (28) in a first direction Wi, the second extending support section is movably extendable from the central support section (28) in a second direction W2, the second direction W2 is opposite to the first direction W1, to support the mattress in the extended position.

20. A bed (10,110) according to claim 19 in which the first extending support section (30a) is supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the second extending support section (30b) when in the extended position, preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within second extending support section (30b), preferably inserted inside the second extending support section (30b) when in the extended position.

21. A bed (10,110) according to claim 19 or 20 in which the first extending support section (30a) is supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the second extending support section (30b) when in the retracted position, preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within second extending support section (30b), preferably inserted inside the second extending support section (30b) when in the retracted position.

22. A bed (10,110) according to any one of claims 19 to 21 in which the first (30a) and the second (30b) extending support section are supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the central support section (28), preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the central support section (28), preferably inserted inside the central support section (28) when in the extended position.

23. A bed (10,110) according to any one of claims 19 to 22 in which the first (30a) and the second (30b) extending support sections are supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the central support section (28), preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the central support section (28), preferably inserted inside the central support section when in the retracted position.

24. A bed (10,110) according to any one of claims 19 to 23 in which the first extending support section (30a) at least partially, preferably fully overlaps with the second extending support section (30b) in the lateral direction (W) when in the retracted position.

25. A bed (10,110) according to claim any one of claims 19 to 24 in which the first extending support section (30a), the second support extending section (30b) and the central support section (28) are arranged on a common lateral axis (AL) in both the extended and retracted positions.

26. A bed (10,110) according to any one of claims 19 to 25 further comprising a support section (32,132), in which the support section (32,132) and the second extending support section (30b, 130b) have a substantially identical cross-sectional profile shape and size such that the support section (32,132) and the second extending support section (30b, 130b) locate inside the central support section (28,128).

27. A bed (10,110) according to claim 26 in which the first extending support section (130a) locates inside the support section (32,132) and the second extending support section (30b, 130b) in the retracted position.

28. A bed (10,110) according claim 26 or 27 in which the first extending support section (30a) is supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the support section (32,132), preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the support section (32,132), preferably inserted inside the support section (32,132) when in the retracted position, and the second extending support section (30b) is supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the central support section (28), preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the central support section (28), preferably inserted inside the central support section when in the retracted position.

29. A bed (10,110) according to any one of claims 26 to 28 in which the first extending support section (30a) is supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the support section (32,132), preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the support section (32,132), preferably inserted inside the support section (32,132) when in the extended position, and the second extending support section (30b) is supported, preferably by being vertically constrained by, preferably interlocked with the central support section (28), preferably by being at least partially, preferably fully housed within the central support section (28), preferably inserted inside the central support section when in the extended position.

30. A bed (310) according to any one of claims 19 to 29 the first extending support section (330a) comprises an inner support section (330ainner) and an outer support section (330aOuter), and the second extending support section (330b) comprises an inner support section (330binner) and an outer support section (330bouter), in which the inner support sections (330ainner,330binner) are movable, preferably slidingly movable relative to the outer support sections (330aOuter, 330bouter) to support the mattress in the extended position.31 .A bed (1810) according to any preceding claim in which the frame (1812) is laterally adjustable between a frame retracted position and a frame extended position.

32. A bed according to claim 31 , the frame includes a left side rail and a right side rail, in which the left and right side rails are laterally adjustable relative to each other to adjust the frame between the frame retracted position and the frame extended position.

33. A bed (1810) according to claim 31 or 32, the frame (1812) includes a head end rail (1819) and a foot end rail (1817), the head end rail (1819) and the foot end rail (1817) are laterally extendable, preferably the head end rail (1819) and the foot end rail (1817) comprise a fixed central section (1817c, 1819c) and two extending sections (1817E, 1819E), in which the two extending sections (1817E, 1819E) are laterally adjustable relative to the fixed central section (1817c, 1819c) to adjust the frame between the frame retracted position and the frame extended position.

34. A bed according to claim 33 in which lateral movement of the head end rail and the foot end rails moves the left side rail and the right side rail in a lateral direction.

35. A bed (410) according to any one of claims 1 to 30, the frame includes a left (415b) and a right side (415a) rail, a head end rail (419H) and a foot end rail (417F), in which in the extended position, the head end rail (419H) and the foot end rail (417F) have a lateral width (WF / H) greater than a lateral width (WSR) defined by a lateral distance between the left (415b) and right (415a) side rails.

36. A bed (410) according to claim 8 or any one of claims 9 to 35 when dependent on claim 8 in which at least one of the mattress support elements (416g, i) is mounted, preferably pivotally mounted, on the support section (420) for relative support element adjustment, preferably angular and / or linear adjustment, relative to an adjacent mattress support element (416h) positioned on the at least one mattress support section (420), preferably the back support section (420), between flat and raised positions.

37. A bed (410) according to claim 36 in which the central support section (28) and the first (30a) and second (30b) extending support sections have a rounded edge which cooperates with the associated mattress when the mattress support elements (416g, i) are adjusted between flat and raised positions and / or rotatedrelative to an adjacent central support section (28) and first (30a) and second (30b) extending support sections.

38. A bed (410) according to claim 36 or 37 in which at least one of the mattress support elements (416g, i) is moveable, preferably rotatable relative to an adjacent mattress support element (416h) independently of the angular adjustment of the plurality of mattress support sections (418,420,422,424,426).

39. A bed (410) according to any one of claims 36 to 38 in which at least one of the mattress support elements (416g, i) is at least one of a neck support slat (416i) and a lumbar support slat (416g).

40. A bed (410) according to any one of claims 36 to 39 in which the support element adjustment of the neck support slat (416i) is adjustable relative to the adjacent mattress support element (416h) independently of the support element adjustment of the lumbar support slat (416g).

41. A bed (410) according to any one of claims 39 or 40, each of the mattress support sections (418,420,422,424,426) further comprise a pair of side members (427) rigidly connected to each other by one or more of the mattress support elements (416), in which at least one of the mattress support elements (416g, i) pivotally mounted on the support section (420) for support element adjustment relative to the adjacent mattress support element (416h) positioned on the at least one mattress support section (420) is pivotally mounted to the side member (427).

42. A bed (410) according to any one of claims 39 to 41 , the bed (410) further comprises a neck support actuator (421) to effect support element adjustment of the neck support slat (416i) in which the neck support actuator (421) is pivotally mounted at a first end to the adjacent mattress support element (416h) and at a second to the neck support slat (416i) such that relative movement between the first and second end of the neck support actuator (421) rotates the neck support slat (416i) relative to the fixed slat (426h) between a flat and a raised position.

43. A bed (410) according to any one of claims 39 to 42 the bed (410) further comprises a lumbar support actuator (423) to effect support element angular adjustment of the lumbar support slat (416g), in which the lumbar support actuator (423) is pivotally mounted at a first end to the adjacent mattress support element (416h) and at a second to the lumbar support slat (416g) such that relative movement between the first and second end of the lumbar support actuator (423) rotates the adjustable lumbar support slat 416g relative to the fixed slat (426h) between a flat and a raised position.

44. A bed (410) according to claim 42 when dependent on claim 42 in which the first end of the lumbar support actuator (423) and the first end of the neck support actuator (421) are pivotally mounted to a common mattress support element (416h), preferably the common mattress support element (416h) is positioned between the lumbar support slat (416g) and the neck support slat (416i).

45. A bed (510) according to any preceding claim, the frame further comprising a plurality of legs (513a-f) to support the frame above a surface (S) upon which the bed (510) sits, in which at least two of the plurality of legs on opposing lateral sides of the bed include outwardly and laterally extending portions positioned at their lower free end to support a load applied to the bed.

46. A bed (10) according to any preceding claim, the frame further comprising a plurality of legs (13a-f) to support the frame above a surface (S) upon which the bed (10) sits, in which the plurality of legs (13a-f) remain stationary when the mattress support platform (14) moves between a retracted position and an extended position.

47. A bed (1010) according to claim 8 or any one of claims 9 to 46 when dependent on claim 8 in which each of the first (1030a) and second (1030b) extending sections has a free outboard end, in which outboard ends of adjacent extending support sections (1030a, 1030b) are pivotally connected to each other by a linkage (1050).

48. A bed (10) according to any preceding claim in which the retracted position is one or more retracted positions and the extended position is one or more extended positions.

49. A bed according to claim 48 in which the retracted position corresponds to a first bed width which can support a mattress having a first width, preferably 3 foot, and the extended position corresponds to a second bed width which can support a 4 foot or 5 foot or 6 foot or 6 foot 4 inch mattress, or, the retracted position corresponds to a first bed width which can support a 4 foot mattress and the extended position corresponds to a second bed width which can accommodate a 5 foot or 6 foot or 6 foot 4 inch mattress, or the retracted position corresponds to a bed width which can support a 5 foot mattress and the extended position corresponds to a second bed width which can support a 6 foot or 6 foot 4 inch mattress.

50. A bed according to any preceding claim, in which the mattress support platform move rearwards towards a head end of the bed when the back support section is raised, and moves forwards towards a foot end of the bed when the back support section is lowered, preferably the mattress support platform is angularly movably mounted on an intermediate support carriage, the intermediate support carriage being movably mounted on or in relation to the frame of the bed for translational movement with respect to the frame of the bed when the back support section is raised or lowered.51 . A bed (1710) according to claim 8 or any one of claims 9 to 50 when dependent on claim 8 in which each of the first and second extending sections has a free outboard end, the bed further comprising a cover, preferably a unitary cover (1732) secured to the free ends of each of the first and second extending sections such that the cover substantially covers the mattress support platform, in which the cover (1732) is configured to expand as the bed moves between the retracted position and the extended position, preferably the cover is folded in the retracted position and unfolded in the extended position, preferably the cover is a foam cover or a fabric cover.

52. A bed (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 51 , a gap (Ds) is defined between adjacent mattress support elements (16), each of the mattress support elements (16) have a longitudinal width (DSA), in which a total area of the mattress supportelements (16) in contact with an associated mattress (500) is equal to or greater than a total area defined by the gap (Ds) between the mattress support elements (16) and in contact with the associated mattress (500) such that the mattress support elements (16) support the associated mattress (500).

53. A bed (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 52 in which a longitudinal width (DSA) width of each mattress support element (16) is greater than a gap (Ds) defined between adjacent mattress support elements (16).

54. A bed (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 53 , the plurality of discrete mattress support elements (16) is a number (N) of mattress support elements (16), the number (N) and longitudinal width (DSA) of the mattress support elements (16) configured such that the gap (Ds) between adjacent mattress support elements (16) is substantially equal to or less than 100mm.

55. A bed (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 54 in which the mattress support elements (16) have a longitudinal width (DSA) of at least 75mm, preferably at least 100mm.

56. A bed (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 55 in which the mattress support elements (16) each have a substantially equal longitudinal width (DSA).

57. A bed (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 56 in which the gap (Ds) between each adjacent mattress support element (16) is substantially equal.

58. A bed (110) according to any one of claims 3 to 57 in which a pivotal connection point (PP) between adjacent mattress support sections (118,120,122,124,126) substantially coincides with a longitudinal mid-point (MP) defined half-way between adjacent mattress support elements (116) in a longitudinal direction of the bed (110), in which the mid-point PP is substantially half the gap (Ds) defined between each adjacent mattress support element (16).

59. A bed (110) according to any one of claims 3 to 58 in which a pivotal connection point (PP) between adjacent mattress support sections (118,120,122,124,126) is vertically positioned in an envelope (E) defined between an upper (UP) and a lower (LO) external surface of the mattress support element (16).

60. A bed (10) according to any one of claims 10 to 59 in which each side member (27) includes an aperture or cut-out (59) to enable the extending support section (30) to move laterally between retracted and extended positions.

61. An article of adjustable furniture, preferably a bed (110), comprising at least one support section (120,122,124,126), an actuator (170) operable to effect movement, preferably pivotal, of the at least one support section, and at least a first (127e) and a second (127f) component pivotally joined by a bearing assembly (150a, b), the bearing assembly (150a, b) comprising a bearing (156), a bush assembly (151a, b), and a fastener (153), the bearing (156) having an inner (155) and outer race (157) rotationally moveable relative to each other, the outer race (157) is rotationally fixed relative to the second component (127f), in which the first component (127e) is rotationally fixed relative to the inner race (155) and the bush assembly (151 a,b) by the fastener (153), such that operation of the actuator (170) causes relative movement between the inner (155) and outer (157) race to cause pivotal movement between the first (127e) and second (127f) components so as to effect movement of the at least one support section (120,122,124,126).

62. An article of adjustable furniture according to claim 61 in which the first component (127e) is rotationally fixed to the inner race (155) and the bush assembly (151a, b) by axially clamping the first component (127e) to the bush assembly (151a, b) and the inner race (155), preferably axially clamping at least part of the bush assembly (151 a,b) between the first component (127e) and the inner race (155).

63. An article of adjustable furniture according to claim 61 or 62 in which the bush assembly (151 a,b) is a first bush (158).

64. An article of adjustable furniture according to claim 63 in which the bush assembly (151 a, b) is a first bush (158) and a second bush (154).

65. An article of adjustable furniture according to claim 63 or 64 in which the first (158) and / or second (154) bush includes a first axially inward projection (161 a,b) which cooperates with the second component (127f) to limit lateral movement of the second component (127f).

66. An article of adjustable furniture according to any one of claims 63 to 65 in which the first (158) and / or second (154) bush includes a second axially inward projection (163) which engages with the inner race (155) to rotationally fix the inner race (155) and the bush assembly (151 a,b) to the first component (127e).

67. An article of adjustable furniture according to claim 65 or 66 when dependent on claim 65 in which the first axially inward projection (161) is positioned radially outboard of the second axially inward projection (163).

68. An article of adjustable furniture according to one of claims 61 to 67, the fastener (153) comprises a nut (165) and a bolt (167), in which the bush assembly (151 s, b) is clamped between the nut (165) and the bolt (167) and the first component (127) is clamped between the bush assembly (151) and one of the nut (165) or the bolt (167).

69. An article of adjustable furniture according to claim 68 further comprising a washer positioned between one of the nut (165) or the bolt (167) and the bush assembly (151 a, b).

70. An article of adjustable furniture according to any one of claims 61 to 69 in which one of the plurality of mattress support sections (118, 120,122,124,126) includes the first component (127ab, 127cd, 127e, 127f, 127ghi), and an adjacent support section of the plurality of mattress support sections (120,122,124,126) includes the second component (127ab, 127cd, 127e, 127f, 127ghi), or a frame (115a) of the bed includes the second component, or a first connecting means (180) connecting one of the mattress support sections (127ab) to a frame of the bed includes the second component, or a second connecting means (183) connecting the first connecting means (180) to one of the mattress support sections (127ab) includes the second component.

71. An article of adjustable furniture according to any one of claims 61 to 70 further comprising a second bearing assembly (150b), the second bearing assembly comprising a second bearing (156), and a second bush assembly (151 b), thesecond bearing (156) having an inner (155b) and outer race (157b) rotationally moveable relative to each other, the outer race (157b) is rotationally fixed relative to a third component (171), in which the third component (171) is rotationally fixed to the inner race (155b) and the second bush assembly (151b) of the second bearing assembly (150b) by the fastener (153), and the bush assembly (151 b) of the second bearing assembly (150b) is rotationally fixed relative to the bush assembly (151a) of the first bearing assembly (150a) by the fastener (153), such that operation of the actuator (170) causes relative movement between the inner (155a) and outer (157a) race of the first bearing assembly (150a) and relative movement between the inner (155b) and outer (157b) race of the second bearing assembly (150b) to cause pivotal movement between the first (127ghi), second (127f) and third (171) components so as to effect movement of the at least one support section (120,122,124,126).

72. An article of adjustable furniture according to any one of claims 61 to 71 further comprising a fastener washer (169b) positioned axially between the second bush assembly (151 b) and the nut (165) or bolt (167) of the fastener.

73. An article of adjustable furniture according to any one of claims 61 to 72 further comprising a bearing washer (149a) positioned axially between the first bush (158) of the second bush assembly (151b) and the second bush (154) of the first bush assembly (151a).

74. A bed (110) according to any preceding claim, the frame (112) comprises a first section (112a) and a second section (112b), the first and second sections pivotally attached using a hinge (113) such that the first (112a) and second (112b) sections can be moved between an assembled position and a folded position.

75. A bed (110) according to claim 68, the first section (112a) having a lower surface, and the second section (112b) having a lower surface, in which the lower surfaces face each other, preferably engage with each other when in the folded position.

76. A bed (110) according to claim 3 and any one of claims 4 to 69 when dependent on claim 3 in which each of the mattress support sections (118,120,122,124,126) is releasably attachable to the frame (112).

77. A bed (110) according to claim 3 or any one of claims 4 to 70 when dependent on claim 3 in which each of the mattress support sections (118,120,122,124,126) is releasably pivotally connectable to an adjacent mattress support section (118,120,122,124,126).

78. A bed (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 60 in which the mattress support elements (16) comprise a curved upper surface (UP) which is engageable with an associated mattress (500).

79. A bed (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 60 in which the mattress support elements (16) have a partially oval cross-section.

80. A bed (10) according to claim 12 or any one of claims 13 to 60 when dependent on 12 in which the central support section (28) is an aluminium extrusion, and the extending support section (30) is a plastic moulding.81 .A bed (10) comprising a frame (12) and a mattress support platform (14) configured to support an associated mattress and occupant(s), in which the mattress support platform (14) is laterally adjustable between a retracted position and an extended position having a lateral width (WE) greater than a lateral width (WR) in the retracted position.

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