Lift system including a lock assembly and release system

Abstract

A lift system includes bottom components, top components, a lifting assembly, a lock assembly, and a release system. The bottom components are positionable on a surface. The top components are configured to support a structure. The lifting assembly includes lifting members and a locking member. The locking member is configured to be alternated between a locked configuration to lock the lifting assembly in each of a raised configured, a plurality of intermediate configurations, and a lowered configuration of the lifting assembly, and an unlocked configuration to allow the lifting assembly to be moved, between the raised configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the lowered con figuration. The release system is configured to cause the locking member to alternate into the unlocked configuration so as to allow a user to move the lifting assembly between the lowered configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the raised configuration.

Description

LIFT SYSTEM INCLUDING A LOCK ASSEMBLY AND RELEASE SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 627,970 filed February 1, 2024, and U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 549,795 filed February 5, 2024, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to lifting assemblies for raising or lifting a bed off a floor.BACKGROUND

[0003] Many beds include a bed frame on which a mattress and optionally, a box spring is disposed. The bed may also include bed sheets, pillows, comforters, etc. disposed on the mattress. The mattress and the box spring generally have a relatively significant weight. However, there are many situations in which the mattress, the box spring, the bed sheets, the pillows, the comforters, and / or other components of the bed may have to be lifted off the floor. For example, a person changing a bed sheet of the mattress often has to bend over to change sheets or otherwise make the bed. Bending over frequently and / or for extended periods of time may pose a number of safety and health issues. For example, the bending over may cause strain on the back and hands of the person making the bed (e.g., changing the sheets of the mattress). For example, in hotels and resorts, hospitality personnel or custodians may have to change numerous bed sheets on any given day. The repetitive bending over to change the bed sheets may cause severe injuries over time to the back, legs and / or hands of the persons changing the bed sheets.SUMMARY

[0004] Embodiments described herein relate generally to systems and methods tor raising or lifting a bed off or upwards from a surface and in particular, to a lift system that includes alifting assembly that is configured to be disposed beneath a bed for selectively moving the bed between a lowered configuration, a plurality of intermediate configurations, and a raised configuration such that the lifting assembly may be locked in each such configuration. The lift system includes a locking member configured to alternated between a locked configuration to lock the lifting assembly in each of the raised configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration of the lifting assembly, and an unlocked configuration to allow the lifting assembly to be moved between the raised configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration.

[0005] In one embodiment, a lift system includes a plurality of bottom components positionable on a surface, a plurality of top components configured to support a structure, a lifting assembly coupled to at least one of the plurality of bottom components and at least one of the plurality of top components, and a release system. The lifting assembly includes a plurality of lifting members and a locking member. Each of the plurality of lifting members have a lifting member first end coupled to one of the plurality of bottom components, and a lifting member second end opposite the lifting member first end coupled to one of the plurality of top components. The locking member is configured to be alternated between a locked configuration to Jock the lifting assembly in each of a raised configuration, a plurality of intermediate configurations, and a lowered configuration of the lifting assembly, and an unlocked configuration to allow the lifting assembly to be moved between the raised configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration. The release system is configured to cause the locking member to alternate into the unlocked configuration so as to allow a user to move the lifting assembly between the lowered configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the raised configuration.

[0006] In another embodiment, a lift system includes a bottom assembly positionable on a surface, a top assembly configured to support a structure, a lifting assembly coupled to the bottom assembly and the top assembly, and a release system. The lifting assembly includes an actuator configured to be alternated between a locked configuration to lode the lifting assembly in each of a raised configuration, a plurality of intermediate configurations, and a lowered configuration of the lifting assembly, and an unlocked configuration to allow the lifting assembly to be moved between the raised configuration, the plurality of intermediateconfigurations, and the lowered configuration. The release system is configured to cause the actuator to alternate into the unlocked configuration so as to allow a user to move the lifting assembly between the lowered configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the raised configuration.

[0007] In yet another embodiment, a lift system includes a plurality of bottom components positionable on a surface, a plurality of top components configured to support a structure, and a lifting assembly coupled to at least one of the plurality of bottom components and at least one of the plurality of top components. The lifting assembly includes a plurality of lifting members and an actuator. Each of the plurality of lifting members have a lifting member first end coupled to one of the plurality of bottom components, and a lifting member second end opposite the lifting member first end Coupled to one of the plurality of top components. The actuator is configured to be alternated between a locked configuration to lock the lifting assembly in each of a raised configuration, a plurality of intermediate configurations, and a lowered configuration of the lifting assembly, and an unlocked configuration to allow the lifting assembly to be moved between the raised configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration.

[0008] It should be appreciated tib at all combinations of the foregoing concepts and additional concepts discussed in greater detail below (provided Such concepts are not mutually inconsistent) are contemplated as being part of the subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure are contemplated as being part of the subject matter disclosed herein.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several implementations in accordance with the disclosure and are therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a lift system for raising or lifting a bed upwards from a surface on which the lift system is positioned, according to an embodiment

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example of the lift system of FIG. 1 in a raised configuration, according to an embodiment

[0012] FIG. 3 is Side view of the lift system of FIG. 2 in a lowered configuration.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a side view of the lift system of FIG. 2 in an intermediate configuration.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a side view of the lift system of FIG. 2 in the raised configuration.IQ015J FIG, 6 is a perspective, cross-sectional view of an example lock assembly of the lift system of FIG, 2 in a first configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a perspective, cross-sectional view of the lock assembly of FIG. 6 in a second configuration in which the lock assembly is engaged by an example release system, according to an embodiment

[0017] FIG. 8 is a side view of an example locking member of the lift system of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 9 is perspective view of the lift system of FIG. 2 with an example hospitality style bed base, according to an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the lift system of FIG, 2 with a plurality of orthogonal bars for directly attaching to a platform, according to an embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another example of the lift system of FIG, 1 in a lowered configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the lift system of FIG, 11 in a raised configuration.

[0022] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another example of the lift system of FIG. 1 in a lowered configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0023] FIG 14 is a perspective view of the lift system of FIG 13 in a raised configuration,

[0024] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another example of the lift system of FIG. 1 in a raised and contracted configuration, according to an embodiment

[0025] FIG. 16 is another perspective view the lift system of FIG. 15 in the raised configuration and contracted configuration.

[0026] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the lift system of FIG. 15 in a raised and expanded configuration.

[0027] FIG. 18 is another perspective view of the lift system of FIG. 15 in the raised and expanded configuration.

[0028] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the lift system of FIG. 2 with an example bed frame, according to an embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the lift system of FIG. 2 with an example bed platform, according to another embodiment.

[0030] Reference is made to the accop.anying drawings throughout the following detailed description. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative implementations described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other implementations may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented here. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and made part of this disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Embodiments described herein relate generally to systems and methods for raising or lifting a bed off or upwards from a surface and in particular, to a lift system that includes a lifting assembly that is configured to be disposed beneath a bed for selectively moving the bed between a lowered configuration, multiple intermediate configurations, and a raisedconfiguration such that the lifting assembly may be locked in each such configuration. The system also includes a lock assembly that is configured to selectively unlock the lifting assembly when a release system engages the lock assembly so as to allow the lifting assembly, and thereby a bed disposed thereon, to be moved between the lowered configuration, the multiple intermediate configurations, and the raised configuration*

[0032] Many beds include a bed frame on which a box spring and / or a mattress is disposed. The bed may also include bed sheets, pillows, comforters, etc. disposed on the mattress. For example, a person changing a bed sheet of the mattress often has to bend over so as to make the bed. However, the manual making of the bed (e.g., the bed frame, the box spring and / or mattress) while bending over may pose a number of safety and health issues. For example, frequent or excessive bending over can cause Strain on the back and hands Of the person making the mattress. The health and safety concerns are even higher in settings where bed sheets of mattresses have to be repeatedly changed. For example, in hotel hospitality personnel may have to change numerous bed sheets on any given day.

[0033] Various embodiments of the systems and methods of raising and lowering a bed that may include a mattress and, additionally a box spring, a platform, and / or a headboard may provide benefits including, for example: (I) allowing selective raising or lifting of a bed off a Surface via a lifting assembly with significantly reduced effort so as to allow a person to focilely change a bed sheet without having to bend over; (2) providing a lock assembly that allows selective unlocking of the lifting assembly m each of a raised configuration, multiple intermediate configurations, and a lowered configuration of the lifting assembly; (3) allowing selective unlocking of the lifting assembly via a release system that can be retained by a user after unlocking the bed, which prevents unauthorized lifting or lowering of the bed; and (4) providing magnetic engagement between the release system and the lock assembly that reduces the effort in unlocking or locking the lifting assembly and is less susceptible to mechanical failure, thereby reducing maintenance costs.

[0634] While various embodiments described herein are described with respect to systems for use with beds, the systems described herein can be used for raising and lowering any piece of furniture (e.g., sofos, chests, drawers, love seats, cabinets, etc.), or in industrial settings forraising or lowering any equipment or machine (e.g., palettes, shelves, etc.). All such variations are envisioned and within the scope of the present application.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a lift system 100, according to an embodiment. The lift system 100 of FIG. 1 includes a bottom assembly 102 (e.g., bottom rails, a plurality of bottom components, etc.), a lifting assembly 140, and a top assembly 130 (e.g., top rails, a plurality of top components, etc.) configured to support a structure (e.g., a bed, a bed frame, etc.). For example, a bed 10 may be disposed on the top assembly 130. The lift system 100 may be removably or permanently coupled to the bed 10 (or bed frame).

[0036] The bottom assembly 102 is configured to be positioned (e.g., positionable, etc.) on a surface (e.g., hardwood floor, cemented floor, marbles floor, vinyl floor, carpet, etc.) and may include flat or rigid plates configured to bear a weight of the lifting assembly 140, the top assembly 130, and the bed 10. The bottom assembly 102 may include two axial plates position parallel to each other and that may also be coupled to each other, for example to provide additional mechanical rigidity and strength, as described herein. In some embodiments, the bottom assembly 102 may include bottom components that are coupled via telescopic or extendable bottom component cross-members configured to adjust a spacing between the components of foe bottom assembly 102, for example, to accommodate different versions of foe bed 10 having various widths (e.g., single, twin, full, queen, king, California king, or any other custom width bed.)

[0037] The bed 10 includes a mattress 20 and may also include a box spring 30 and / or a bed flame. The bed 10 may also include other components, for example slats, pillows, bed sheets, decorative sheets, comforters etc. The mattress 20 may include any suitable mattress such as for example a spring mattress, a foam mattress, a memory foam mattress, a gel mattress, a water mattress, an air mattress, or any other suitable mattress. The mattress 20 may have any suitable size, for example, single, twin, foil, queen, king, California king, or any other suitable shape or size.

[0038] In some embodiments, the box spring 30 is positioned on the top assembly 130, for example, on a bed frame coupled to, or disposed on the top assembly 130, and the mattress 20 is positioned on the box spring 30. The box spring 30 may be any suitable box spring, forexample a wooden box spring or any other commonly available box spring. In other embodiments, the box spring 30 may be excluded such that the mattress 20 may be positioned directly on a bed frame or the top assembly 130. In such embodiments, slats (e.g., wooden stats) may be positioned on the mattress 20 and / or the bed frame:

[0039] The top assembly 130 is coupled to the bottom assembly 102 via the lifting assembly 140, as described herein. The top assembly 130 is structured to support the bed 10 thereon. In some embodiments, the top assembly 130 includes a pair of the top components disposed parallel to each other in a first plane, with each of the top components being disposed parallel to a bottom component of the bottom assembly 102 in a second plane that is orthogonal to the first plane.

[9040] In various embodiments, the top assembly 130 may include top components that are telescopic or otherwise have an adjustable length so as to accommodate beds having various lengths. In some embodiments, a bed base bracket may be coupled to longitudinal ends of each of the top components of the top assembly 130 and structured to be coupled to or secure a bed base. In some embodiments, bed frame brackets may be coupled to the top components of the top assembly 130 for securing a bed frame thereto. In other embodiments, bed base brackets may be additionally, or alternatively, coupled to longitudinal ends of each of the top components of the top assembly 130 for securing a bed base (e.g., a box spring) disposed on the top assembly 130 to the lift system 100.

[0041] In some embodiments, the lift system 100 may also include a plurality of cross members coupled to the top components of the top assembly 130 and positioned orthogonal thereto sb as to provide mechanical strength and structural rigidity for receiving the bed 10 thereon. Moreover, the cross-members may be telescopic or otherwise, have an adjustable length to allow adjustment of a spacing between the top components of the top assembly 130, for example, as described with respect to the bottom component cross-members.

[0042] The lifting assembly 140 is coupled to each of the bottom assembly 102 and the top assembly 130 and includes a plurality of lifting members. Each of the lifting members has a lifting member first end coupled (e g., pivotally coupled) to the bottom assembly 102, and alifting member second end opposite the lifting member first end coupled (e.g., pivotally coupled) to the top assembly 130.

[0043] The lifting assembly 140 is movable between a raised configuration, a plurality of intermediate configurations (e.g., multiple intermediate configurations, at least two intermediate configurations, etc.) and a lowered configuration. In the lowered configuration, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members is positioned proximate to the bottom assembly 102 such that the top assembly 130, and thereby the bed 10 positioned thereon, are positioned in a lowered position proximate to the surface (e.g., the floor) on which the bottom assembly 102 is positioned. In the raised configuration, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members is positioned distal to the bottom assembly 102 so that the top assembly 130, and thereby the bed 10 positioned thereon, is raised or lifted upwards off the surface on which the bottom assembly 102 is positioned on a raised position.

[0044] In the intermediate configurations, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members is positioned in intermediate orientations between proximate to the bottom assembly 102 and distal to the bottom assembly 102 so that the top assembly 130, and thereby the bed 10 positioned thereon, is positioned in a plurality of intermediate positions between the raised position of the top assembly 130 and the bed 10 in the raised configuration and the lowered position of the top assembly 130 and the bed in the lowered Configuration. For example, in a first of the intermediate configurations, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members is positioned in a first intermediate orientation between proximate to the bottom assembly 102 and distal to the bottom assembly 102 so that the top assembly 130, and thereby the bed 10 positioned thereon, is positioned in a first intermediate position between the raised position of the top assembly 130 and the bed 10 in the raised configuration and the lowered position of the top assembly 130 and the bed 10 in the lowered configuration. In a second of the intermediate configurations, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members is positioned in a second intermediate orientation between the first intermediate orientation and distal to the bottom assembly 102 (e.g., further from proximate to the bottom assembly 102 and closer to distal to the bottom assembly 102 than the first intermediate position, etc.) so that the top assembly 130, and thereby the bed 10 positioned thereon, is positioned in a second intermediate position between the first intermediate position of the topassembly 130 and the bed 10 in the first intermediate configuration and the raised position of the top assembly 130 and the bed 10 in the raised configuration.

[0045] In additional of the intermediate configurations (e.g., a third intermediate configuration, a fourth intermediate configuration, a fifth intermediate configuration, a sixth intermediate configuration, etc.), according to various embodiments, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members is positioned in additional intermediate orientations (e.g,, a third intermediate orientation, a fourth intermediate orientation, a fifth intermediate orientation, a sixth intermediate orientation, etc.) between a previous of the intermediate orientations (e.g., the second intermediate orientation for the third intermediate orientation, the third intermediate orientation for the fourth intermediate orientation, the fourth intermediate orientation for the fifth intermediate orientation, etc,) and distal to the bottom assembly 102 so that the top assembly 130, and thereby the bed 10 positioned thereon, is positioned in additional intermediate positions (e.g., a third intermediate position, a fourth intermediate position, a fifth intermediate position, a sixth intermediate position, etc.) between a previous position of the top assembly 130 and the bed 10 (e.g., the second intermediate position for the third intermediate position, the third intermediate position for the fourth intermediate position, the fourth intermediate position for the fifth intermediate position, etc.) in a previous intermediate configuration (e.g., the second intermediate configuration for the third intermediate configuration, the third intermediate configuration for the fourth intermediate configuration, the fourth configuration for the fifth intermediate configuration, etc.) and the raised position of the top assembly 130 and the bed IO in the raised configuration.

[0046] In some embodiments, the plurality of lifting members may include hydraulic or pneumatic telescopic cylinders configured to move the lifting assembly between the raised configuration, the intermediate configurations, and lowered configuration.

[0047] In some embodiments, the lifting assembly 140 includes a locking member (e.g., a locking element, etc.), which may be coupled to one of the lifting members and configured to move between a locked position (e.g,3a locked configuration, etc.) to lock the lifting assembly 140 in each of the raised configuration, the intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration of the lifting assembly 140, and an unlocked position (e.g., an unlockedconfiguration, etc.) to allow the lifting assembly 140 to be moved between the raised configuration, die intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration. One or more biasing members (e.g., tension springs, a helical springs, an extension springs, a bungee cord, or any other biasing member) may be coupled to one or more of the plurality of lifting members and to the bottom assembly 102 so as to urge the lifting assembly 140 into the raised configuration or one of the intermediate configurations, when the locking member is in the unlocked position. In some embodiments, the one or more biasing members may provide sufficient biasing force to lift the bed 10 having a weight in a range of 60 lbs. to 600 lbs. (e.g., to support a maximum Underwriter's Laboratory approved weight of 300 lbs. for a twin bed or 600 lbs. for a King or California King bed). In some. embodiments, the lifting assembly 140 includes more than one of the locking member coupled to each of the lifting members.

[0048] One or more dampers (e.g., a hydraulic shock absorber, a twin tube shock absorber, a mono tube shock absorber, a pneumatic shock absorber, or any other suitable damper) may also be coupled to one or more of the plurality of lifting members and the bottom assembly 102, and configured to damp motion of the lifting assembly 140 as it moves from the raised configuration to the lowered configuration, from the raised configuration to one of the intermediate configurations, from one of the intermediate configurations to the lowered configuration, or from one of the intermediate configurations to another of the intermediate configurations (e.g., from the first of the intermediate configurations to the second of the intermediate configurations, from the second of the intermediate configurations to the first of the intermediate configurations, etc.). The dampening effect of the damper may reduce the effective weight of the bed 10 to less than 20 lbs., thereby reducing a chance of injury if the lifting assembly 140 and thereby, the bed 10 is accidentally dropped from the raised configuration to the lowered configuration, from the raised configuration to one of the intermediate configurations, from one of the intermediate configurations to the lowered configuration, or from one of the intermediate configurations to another of the intermediate configurations (e.g., from the second of the intermediate configurations to the first of the intermediate configurations, from the third of the intermediate configurations to the second of the intermediate configurations, etc.).

[0049] In some embodiments, the locking member may include a locking member body pivotally mounted on the locking member body at a central portion of the locking member body such that the locking member body is rotatable about its central portion. A plurality of first ledges may be defined at a locking member body first end. The first ledges may each be configured to engage an upper post-lock, for example, provided on a bracket coupled to the bottom assembly 102, in one of the intermediate configuration of the lifting assembly so as to secure the lifting assembly in each of the intermediate configurations* A second ledge may be defined at a locking member body second end opposite the locking member body first end. The second ledge may be configured to engage a lower post-lock, for example, provided on the bottom assembly 102, in the lowered configuration of the lifting assembly 140 so as to secure the lifting assembly 140 in the lowered configurationi A third ledge may be defined between the first ledges and the second ledge. In some embodiments, the third ledge is positioned proximate the central portion of the locking member body. The third ledge may be configured to engage the upper post-lock in the raised configuration of the lifting assembly 140 so as to secure the lifting assembly 140 in the raised configuration.

[0050] In some embodiments, the locking member includes a locking biasing member coupled to the locking member and configured to selectively urge the locking member into the locked position in each of the raised configuration, the intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration*

[0051] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the lift system 100 includes a locking assembly, shown as lock assembly 160. The lock assembly 160 is coupled to the lifting assembly 140, for example, ait a longitudinal end thereof. The lock assembly 160 is configured to be adjusted between a retained configuration that inhibits movement of the lifting assembly 140 between the raised configuration and the lowered configuration and a released configuration that allows movement of the lifting assembly 140 between the raised configuration and the lowered configuration, The lock assembly 160 includes a lockAmlock member and a linking component (e.g., cue or a plurality of cables) coupling the lockAmlock member to the locking member. In some embodiments, the lock assembly 160 may include a lock assembly housing defining an interna] volume within which the lockAmlock member is disposed. The lockAmlock member may be a movable member that is normally biased in a firstposition by the locking biasing member via the linking component, the first position corresponding to the locking member being in the locked position.

[0052] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG* 1, the lift system 100 includes a release system, shown as release system 190, configured to transition the lock assembly 160 between the released configuration and the retained configuration. For example, the release system 190 may be selectively engaged with the lock / unlock member by a user to cause the lock / unlock member to move the locking member into the unlocked position. The release system 190 may include a release system arm having a release system magnet disposed at a distal end of the release system arm* When the distal end of the release system atm engages the lock assembly 160 the release system magnet urges the lock / unlock member to move towards the release system magnet,. The movement of the lock / unlock member pulls the linking component causing the locking member to move into the unlocked position so as to allow the user to move the lifting assembly 140 between the lowered configuration, the intermediate configurations, and the raised configuration. In some embodiments, the release system 190 instead of including a hook may include a bolt or magnet configured to engage the lock assembly 160.

[0053] In some embodiments, a lock / unlock member magnet is disposed at an end of the lock / unlock member that is proximate to the distal end of the release system arm so as to increase the attractive force between the distal end of the release system arm and the lock / unlock member. In some embodiments, the lock / unlock member include a fixed end that is pivotally mounted such that the end on which the lock / unlock member magnet is disposed is a movable end. For example, the lock / unlock member may include a pendulum type tumbler configured to move back-to-front or side-to-side towards the distal end of the release system arm. In other embodiments, the lock / unlock member may inchide a slidable member, for example, slidably mounted on a rail.

[0054] In some embodiments, the lock assembly housing of the lock assembly defines a cavity or slot configured to receive the distal end of the release system arm. In particular embodiments, the release system includes a handle coupled to a proximate end of the release system arm that is configured to be engaged by a user. A bend may be defined in the release system arm proximate to the distal end of the release system arm such that the distal end formsa hook that is configured to engage a portion of the lock assembly housing, for example, when the distal end of the release system arm is inserted into the cavity defined in the lock assembly housing. The distal end hooks on to the portion of the lock assembly housing allowing the user to pull the lock assembly 160, and thereby the lifting assembly, from the lowered configuration into the raised configuration, from the raised configuration into the lowered configuration, from the raised canfiguration into one of the intermediate configurations, from the lowered configuration into one of the intermediate configurations, from one of the intermediate configurations into the raised configuration, from one of the intermediate configurations into the lowered configuration, or from one of the intermediate configurations into another of the intermediate configurations.[0055} Insorne embodiments, as shown in FIG, 1, the lift system 100 includes a controller 200. The controller 200 includes at least one processor, shown as processor 202, and one or more memory devices, shown as memory 204. The memory 204 may include one or more devices (e g-, RAM, ROM, Flash memory, hard disk storage, etc.) for storing data. The memory 204 may also store computer code and / or instructions for executing, completing and / or facilitating the various processes described herein. For example, the memory 204 may store instructions and the instructions may cause the processors 202 to perform functionality that generates control signals associated with the lift system 100 based on input data received by the controller 200. The memory 204 may include non-transient volatile memory, non-volatile memory, and non-transitory computer storage media. The memory 204 may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described herein. For example, the memory 204 may store instructions and the instructions may cause the processors 202 to perform functionality that generates control signals associated with the lifting assembly 140 to transition the tiffing assembly 140 between the lowered configuration and the raised configuration. The memory 204 may communicably couple with the processor 202. The memory 204 may also be electrically coupled with the processor 202. The processor 202 may be implemented as one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a group of processing components, and / or other suitable electronic processing components.

[0056] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the lift system 100 includes controls, shown as operator controls 210. The operator controls 210 are configured to provide an operator with the ability to control one or more functions of and / or provide commands to the lift system LOO and the components thereof (e.g., lock the lock assembly 160, unlock the lock assembly 160, raise the lifting assembly 140, lower the lifting assembly 140, etc.). The operator controls 210 include an operator interface 212. The operator interface 212 may include one or more displays and one or more input devices. The one or more displays may be or include a touchscreen, an LCD display, a LED display, gauges, warning lights, etc. The one or more input device may be or include buttons, switches, knobs, levers, dials, etc. In some embodiments, the operator interface 212 is a remote operator interface (e.g., a remote control, a remote, etc.). The operator controls 210 may generate input data based on inputs received from the operator of the lift system 100. The operator controls 210 may provide the input data to the controller 200 such that the controller 200 may operate the lift system 100 according to the input data.

[0057] The controller 200 may include network communication devices, network interfaces, and / or other possible communication interfaces to facilitate wireless communication with various external devices and / or components of the lift system 100. For example, the controller 200 may receive the input data wirelessly from the operator controls 210. The controller 200 may include wired or wireless communications interfaces (e.g. Jacks, antennas, transmitters, receivers, transceivers, wire terminals, etc.) for conducting data communications with sensors, devices, systems, etc., of the lift system 100 and / or other external systems or devices (e.g., servers, operator devices, etc.). The controller 200 may include communication interfeces that are direct (e.g., local wired or wireless communications) and / or via a communications network. For example, the controller 200 may include an Ethernet card and port for sending and receiving data via an Ethernet-based communications link or network. The controller 200 may also include a Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and / or cellular transceiver for communicating via a wireless communications network. The controller 200 may include a power line communications interface. The controller 200 may include an Ethernet interface, a USB interface, a serial communications interface, and / or a parallel communications interface.

[0058] FIGS. 2-5 show the lift system 100 configured as a lift system 300. FIG, 2 is a perspective view of the lift system 300 in a raised configuration, and FIG. 3 is a side view of thelift system 300 in a lowered configuration, according to a particular embodiment. FIG. 4 is a side view of the lift system 300 in an intermediate configuration, and FIG. 5 is a side view of the lift system 300 in a raised configuration. The lift system 300 includes the bottom assembly 102 including a plurality of bottom components 302 (e.g., components of the bottom assembly 102, etc.), the top assembly 130 including a plurality of top components 330 (e.g., components of the top assembly 130, etc.), the lifting assembly 140 as lifting assembly 340, the lock assembly 160 as lock assembly 360, and the release system 190 as release system 390. The lift system 300 may be used to selectively raise a bed (e.g., the bed ID) disposed on the lift system 300 off a surface (e.g., a floor such as a hardwood floor, a vinyl floor, a marbled floor, a concrete floor, a tiled floor, a carpeted floor, or any other surface on which the lift system 300 is disposed,) or lower the bed towards the surface.

[0059] The bottom components 302 are configured to be positioned on the surface. The bottom components 302 may include flat plates formed from a strong and rigid material (e g., metals such as cast iron or stainless steel). As shown in FIG.2, the lift system 300 includes a pair of the bottom components 302 disposed parallel to each other. In other embodiments, the lift system 300 may include a larger number of the bottom components 302 (e.g., 3 of the bottom components 302, four of the bottom components 302, etc.). For example, the lift system 300 may include additional of the bottom components 302 disposed between the pair of the bottom components 302 shown in FIG. 2. In some embodiments, a plurality of decorative boards (not shown) may be positioned around the bottom components 302, for example, to prevent a user from seeing the bottom components 302 and / or the lifting assembly 340 (e.g., for aesthetic purposes).

[0060] A plurality of bottom component feet 304 may be disposed beneath the bottom components 302 and coupled thereto. The bottom component feet 304 are configured to support die bottom components 302 on the surface. In some embodiments, at least a contact surface of each of the bottom component feet 304 that contacts the surface on which the lift system 300 is disposed includes a slip resistant material (e.g., a high friction material such as rubber or may include grooves that increase friction) to inhibit slipping of the lift system 300 over the surface as the lifting assembly 340 is moved between a raised configuration, a plurality of intermediate configurations, and a lowered configuration, as described herein.[0061 J A pair of bottom component cross-members 310 are disposed perpendicular to a longitudinal axis defined by each of the bottom components 302 and coupled to the bottom components 302. For example, a first of the bottom component cross-members 310 may be coupled to a first longitudinal end of each of the bottom components 302, and a second of the bottom component cross-members 310 may be coupled to a second longitudinal end of each of the bottom components 302 opposite the first longitudinal end. In some embodiments, bottom component cross-member mounts 307 may be disposed at each of the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end of the bottom components 302, each of which defines a channel configured to receive an end of one of the bottom component cross-members 310. The ends of the bottom component cross-members 310 may be secured within the channel via securing members (e.g., pins, screws, nuts, rivets, etc.). In some embodiments, the bottom component cross-members 310 have an adjustable length. For example, the bottom component crossmembers 310 may be telescopic so as to allow adjustment of the length of the bottom component cross-members 310. In this manner, a spacing between the bottom components 302 may be adjusted to accommodate beds having different sizes (e.g., single, twin, full, queen, king, California king, or any other suitable shape or size bed).

[0062] In some embodiments, the lift system 300 may include a securement assembly coupled to at least one of the bottom component cross-members 310 or to any other member and / or at any location of the lift system 300. In some embodiments, the securement assembly may be coupled to one of the bottom component cross-members 310 that is configured to be located proximate to a wall or a headboard (not shown). The securement assembly may include a longitudinal bar coupled at a first end thereof to the one of the bottom component crossmembers 310, and having a securement member, for example, a bracket or plate, disposed at a second end thereof, opposite the first end. The securement member is configured to be coupled to a wall or the surface on which the lift system 300 is disposed so as to inhibit movement (e.g., sliding) of the lift system 300 as the lifting assembly 340 is moved between the raised and the lowered configurations.

[0063] Each of the top components 330 is coupled to at least one of the bottom components 302, as described herein. The top components 330 are configured to support a structure (e.g., a bed, a bed frame, etc.) For example, the top components 330 may be configured to support thebed 10. As shown in FIG. 2, a pair of the top components 330 are each coupled to at least one of die pair of the bottom components 302. In some embodiments, each of the top components 330 includes a top component first portion 331 and a top component second portion 332 coupled to each other via a top component coupling bracket 334. Each of the top component first portion 331 and the top component second portion 332 may be telescopic, thereby allowing adjustment of a length of each of the top components 330 for accommodating various size beds. A top component coupling bracket slot 337 may be defined in each of the top component coupling brackets 334 and configured to receive at least a portion of an orthogonal beam, for example, an orthogonal beam included in a support assembly 400 as described with respect to FIG. 9.

[0064] In some embodiments, a plurality of bed base mounting brackets 336 may be disposed on the longitudinal ends of each of the top components 330. The bed base mounting brackets 336 are configured to be coupled to a bed base (e.g, slats) to secure the bed base to the top components 330, In other embodiments, the lift system 300 includes frame mounting brackets 314 configured to couple a bed frame and, in some embodiments, side boards to foe top components 330,

[0065] In some embodiments, the lift system 300 includes a top component cross-member 312 coupled to the top components 330 and positioned orthogonal thereto so as to provide mechanical strength and structural rigidity for receiving the bed thereon. For example, a top component cross-member mounting member 313 may be disposed on each of the top components 330 and define a channel for receiving a respective longitudinal end of foe top component cross-member 312. The top component cross-member 312 may be coupled to the top component cross-member mounting member 313 via a friction fit, a snap fit, or using a coupling member (e.g., pins, screws, bolts, rivets, etc.) Moreover, the top component crossmember 312 may be telescopic or otherwise have an adjustable length to allow adjustment of a spacing between the top components 330, for example, as described with respect to the bottom component cross-members 310. In various embodiments, foe lift system 300 includes a plurality of the top component cross-members 312.[0066J The lifting assembly 340 is coupled to each of the bottom components 302 and the top components 330 and includes a plurality of lifting members each having a lifting member first end pivotally coupled to at least one of the bottom components 302, and a lifting member second end opposite the lifting member first end pivotally coupled to at least one of the top components 330* In some embodiments, a first of the lifting members is coupled between a fust of the bottom components 302 and a first of the top components 330 and a second of the lifting members is coupled between a second of the bottom components 302 and a second of file top components 330.

[0067] The lifting members include a plurality of first lifting members 341. Each of the first lifting members 341 includes a first portion that includes a pair of first lifting member plates 342 disposed proximate one of the bottom components 302 and pivotally coupled to the one of the bottom components 302 at first lifting member plate first ends. The first lifting member plates 342 are disposed on either side of the one of the bottom components 302 such that the one of the bottom components 302 is interposed therebetween. Each of the first lifting members 341 includes a second portion that includes a first strut 344 fixedly coupled at a first strut first end to first lifting member plate second ends opposite the first lifting member plate first ends and having a first strut second end opposite the strut first end pivotally coupled to one of the top components 330* In other embodiments, the lifting members include a single one of the first lifting members 341.

[0068] Each of the pair of first lifting member plates 342 includes a first lifting member plate projection 343 extending orthogonally away from a longitudinal axis of the first lifting member plate 342. In some embodiments, the first lifting member plate projection 343 extends in a direction away from the securement assembly. The lifting assembly 340 includes a lifting assembly biasing member 346. The lifting assembly biasing member 346 may include, for example, a tension spring, a helical spring, an extension spring, a bungee coni, or any other biasing member. A first end of the lifting assembly biasing members 346 is coupled to one of the first lifting member plates 342. For example, the first end of the lifting assembly biasing member 346 may be coupled to the first lifting member plate projection 343 of the one of the first lifting member plates 342. A second end of the lifting assembly biasing member 346 is coupled to one of the bottom components 302. In various embodiments, the lifting assembly340 includes a plurality of the lifting assembly biasing members 346. For example, a first of the lifting assembly biasing members 346 may be coupled between a first of the bottom components 302 and a first of the first lifting member plates 342 of a first of the lifting members, a second of the lifting assembly biasing members 346 may be coupled between the first of the bottom components 302 and a second of the fust lifting member plates 342 of the first of the lifting members, a third of the lifting assembly biasing members 346 may be coupled between a second of the bottom components 302 and a first of the first lifting member plates 342 of the second of the lifting members, and a fourth of foe lifting assembly biasing members 346 may be couped between foe second of foe bottom components 302 and a second of foe first lifting member plates 342 of the second of the lifting members.

[0069] A tensioning member 347 may be operatively coupled to foe second end of each of the lifting assembly biasing member 346 and structured to couple foe second end of the lifting assembly biasing member 346 to one of the bottom components 302. For example, the tensioning member 347 may be coupled to a tensioning member mounting bracket 348 coupled one of the bottom components 302. The tensioning member 347 may be configured to adjust the biasing force of the at least one of foe lifting assembly biasing members 346. For example;, the tensioning member 347 may include a slidable or otherwise movable coupling.

[0070] The tensioning member 347 may be configured to move foe coupling location of the second end of foe lifting assembly biasing member 346 closer to or further away from the first end of the lifting assembly biasing member 346. This may adjust a tension in the lifting assembly biasing member 346 (e.g., a tension spring) by extending or shortening a length of foe lifting assembly biasing member 346, thereby adjusting a biasing force exerted by the lifting assembly biasing member 346 on the first lifting members 34 L

[0071] The lifting assembly biasing member 346 is configured to apply a tensioning force on foe first lifting members 341 so as to urge the lifting assembly 340 towards the raised configuration. While FIG. 2 shows two of the lifting assembly biasing members 346 each located on each of the bottom components 302, in other embodiments the lifting assembly 340 may only include a single of the lifting assembly biasing member 346 per each of foe bottom components 302. In this manner, foe number of foe lifting assembly biasing members 346 canbe increased or decreased, and / or a tension in each of the lifting assembly biasing member 346 may be adjusted to control an amount of tension exerted on the first lifting members 341 so as to allow lifting of a bed having a weight in a range of 60 lbs. to 600 lbs.

[0072] Each of the lifting members include a plurality of second lifting members 351 , Each of the second lifting members 351 include a first portion including a pair of second lifting member plates 352 disposed proximate to one of the bottom components 302, and pivotally coupled to the one of the bottom components 302 at second lifting member plate first ends. The second lifting member plates 352 are disposed on either side of the one of the bottom components 302 such that the one of the bottom components 302 is interposed therebetween. Each of the second lifting members 351 include a second portion that includes a second strut 354 fixedly coupled at a second strut first end to second lifting member plate second ends opposite the second lifting member plate first ends, and having a second strut second end opposite the second strut first end pivotally coupled to one of the top components 330.

[0073] The lifting assembly 340 includes a damper 356 (e.g., a hydraulic shock absorber, a twin tube shock absorber, a mono tube shock absorber, a pneumatic shock absorber, or any other suitable damper), A damper first end of the damper 356 is coupled to one of the second lifting member plates 352, and a damper second end of the damper 356 opposite the damper first end is Coupled to one of the bottom components 302 proximate to the second end of one of the lifting assembly biasing members 346, for example, via damper mounting bracket 358. The damper 356 is configured to damp motion of the lifting assembly 340 as it moves from the raised configuration to the lowered configuration. The dampening effect of the damper may reduce the effective weight of the bed 10 to less than 20 lbs., thereby reducing a Chance of injury if the lifting assembly 340 is accidentally moved from the raised to the lowered configuration.

[0074] The lifting assembly 340 is movable between a raised configuration, a plurality of intermediate configurations (e g., multiple intermediate configurations, at least two intermediate configurations, etc.) and a lowered configuration. In the lowered configuration, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members is positioned proximate to one of the bottom components 302 such that the top components 330, and thereby the bed 10 positioned thereon,are positioned in a lowered position proximate to the surface (e.g., the floor) on which the bottom components 302 are positioned. In the raised configuration, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members is positioned distal to the bottom components 302 so that the top components 330, and thereby the bed 10 positioned thereon, are raised or lifted upwards off the surface on which the bottom components 302 and are positioned in a raised position.

[0075] In the intermediate configurations, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members is positioned in intermediate orientations between proximate to the bottom components 302 and distal to the bottom components 302 so that the top components 330, and thereby the bed 10 positioned thereon, are positioned in intermediate positions between the raised position of the top components 330 and the bed 10 in the raised configuration and the lowered position of the top components 330 and the bed in the lowered configuration. For example, in a first of the intermediate configurations, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members is positioned in a first intermediate orientation between proximate to the bottom components 302 and distal to the bottom components 302 so that the top components 330, and thereby the bed 10 positioned thereon, are positioned in a first intermediate position between the raised position of the top components 330 and the bed 10 in the raised configuration and the lowered position of the top components 330 and the bed in the lowered configuration. In a second of the intermediate configurations, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members is positioned in a second intermediate orientation between the first intermediate orientation and distal to the bottom components 302 (e.g., further from proximate to the bottom components 302 and closer to distal to the bottom components 302 than the first intermediate position, etc.) so that the top components 330, and thereby the bed 10 positioned thereon, are positioned in a second intermediate position between the first intermediate position of the top components 330 and the bed 10 in the first intermediate configuration and the raised position of the top components 330 and the bed 10 m the raised configuration.

[0076] In additional of the intermediate configurations (e.g., a third intermediate configuration, a fourth intermediate configuration, a fifth intermediate configuration, a sixth intermediate configuration, etc.), according to various embodiments, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members is positioned in additional intermediate orientations (e.g,, a third intermediate orientation, a fourth intermediate orientation, a fifth intermediate orientation,a sixth intermediate orientation, etc.) between a previous of the intermediate orientations (e.g., the second intermediate orientation for the third intermediate orientation, the third intermediate orientation for the fourth intermediate orientation, the fourth Intcnnediate orientation for the fifth intermediate orientation, etc.) and distal to the bottom components 302 so that the top components 330, and thereby the bed 10 positioned thereon, are positioned in additional intermediate positions (e.g., a third intermediate position, a fourth intermediate position, a fifth intermediate position, a sixth intermediate position, eta) between a previous position of the top components 330 and the bed 10 (e.g., the second intermediate position for the third intermediate position, the third intermediate position for the fourth intermediate position, the fourth intermediate position for the fifth intermediate position, etc.) in a previous intermediate configuration (e.g., the second intermediate configuration for the third intermediate configuration, the third intermediate configuration for the fourth intermediate configuration, the fourth configuration for the fifth intermediate configuration, etc.) and the raised position of the top components 330 and the bed 10 in the raised configuration. In some embodiments, the plurality of lifting members may include hydraulic or pneumatic telescopic cylinders configured to move the lifting assembly between the raised configuration, the intcnnediate configurations^ and lowered configuration.

[0077] As previously described, the lifting assembly 340 is movable between the raised configuration shown in FIG. 2 and the lowered configuration shown in FIG. 3. In the lowered configuration, the first strut second end of the first strut 344 and the second strut second end of the second strut 354 of each of the lifting members are positioned proximate to one of the bottom components 302 such that the top components 330, and thereby the bed positioned thereon, is positioned proximate to the surface (e.g., the floor) on which the bottom components 302 are positioned. The top component coupling bracket 334 may include a slot 335 that is configured to, for example, receive a portion of a limit pin 338 so as to limit motion of the lifting assembly 340 as it moves between the raised configuration, the intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration.

[0078] FIG, 9 is a perspective view of a support assembly 400 coupled to the lift system 300, which is structured to mount or a platform. The support assembly 400 includes a plurality of orthogonal beams 402 oriented perpendicular to the top components 330 and coupled thereto.For example, one of the orthogonal beams 402 may be coupled to each longitudinal end of the top components 330 via the bed base mounting brackets 336, and the one of the orthogonal beams 402 may be disposed across through each of the top component coupling bracket slots 337. Each of the orthogonal beams 402 include legs 404 extending perpendicular to the orthogonal beams 402 from a location proximate to axial ends of the orthogonal beams 402 towards a surface on which the lift system 300 is disposed. The legs 404 are structured to support tiie bed in the lowered configuration of the lifting assembly 340, Each of the orthogonal beams 402 include extensions 408 extending beyond the lift system 300* The extensions 408 are configured to adjust a spacing of the support assembly 400, for example, to accommodate a platform having various widths*

[0079] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a bed frame 450 coupled to the lift system 300. The bed frame 450 includes a plurality of orthogonal beams 452 coupled to longitudinal ends of the top components 330 via the bed base mounting brackets 336 and oriented perpendicular to the top components 330, A plurality of longitudinal beams 453 are coupled to axial ends of the orthogonal beams 452 and configured to support a bed (eg., a box spring and / or a mattress thereon). Bed frame brackets 456 are disposed at corners of the bed frame located at a Jonjgitudinai end of the bed frame 450 opposite the lock assembly 360 and are configured to inhibit slipping of the bed (e.g., a box spring or a mattress) off the bed frame 450. Moreover, each of the orthogonal beams 452 include legs 454 extending perpendicular to the orthogonal beams 452 from a location proximate to axial ends of the orthogonal beams 452 towards a surface on which the lift system 300 is disposed. The legs 454 are structured to support the bed in the lowered configuration of the lifting assembly 340*

[0080] The lifting assembly 340 includes a plurality of locking members 380 (e.g., locking elements, etc.). Each of the locking members 380 is coupled to at least one of the second lifting members 351. For example, each of the locking members 380 may be coupled to due of the second lifting member plates 352 of one of the second lifting members 351. The locking member 380 is configured to move between a locked position (e.g., a locked configuration, etc.) to lock the lifting assembly 340 in each of the raised configuration, the intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration of the lifting assembly 340, and an unlocked position (e.g., an unlocked configuration, etc.) to allow the lifting assembly 340 to be movedbetween the raised configuration, the intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration. In other embodiments, the lifting assembly 340 includes a single of the locking members 380 coupled to one of the second lifting members 351.

[0081] Each of the locking members 380 may include a locking member body 381 pivotally mounted on one of the second lifting member plates 352 at a central portion 383 of the locking member body 38I such that the locking member body 381 is rotatable about the central portion 383 of the locking member body 381. A plurality of first ledges 382 (e.g., first hooks, intermediate ledges, etc.) are defined at a locking member body first end of the locking member body 381. The first ledges 382 of each of the locking member bodies 381 are configured to engage an upper post-lock 306 (e.g., a first pin, etc.) in the intermediate configurations of the lifting assembly 34C so as to secure the lifting assembly 340 in the intermediate configurations. For example, a first of the first ledges 382 positioned proximate the locking member body first end of the locking member body 381 may be configured to engage the upper post-lock 306 in the first of the intermediate configurations of the lifting assembly 340 so as to secure the lifting assembly 340 in the first of the intermediate configurations and a second of the first ledges 382 positioned between the first of the first ledges 382 and the central portion 383 of the locking member body 381 may be configured to engage the upper post-lock 306 in the second of the intermediate configurations of the lifting assembly 340 so as to secure the lifting assembly 340 in the second of the intermediate configurations. In some embodiments, an audible sound (e.g. , a click) may occur when each of the first ledges 382 is engaged with the upper post-lock 306, The upper post-lock 306 is mounted on a bumper foot hinge 308 that elevates the upper postlock 306 such that as the locking member 380 raises with the raising of the lifting assembly 340, the first ledge 382 is able to engage the upper post-lock 306. In some embodiments, a height of the upper post-lock 306 may be adjustable up Or down so as to accommodate variances in minimum heights of a bed and / or bed frame disposed on the lift system 300. In some embodiments, the bumper foot hinge 308 is coupled to one of the bottom components 302. In various embodiments, the lifting assembly 340 includes one of the bumper foot hinges 308 and one of the upper post-locks 306 for each of the locking members 380 (e;g., a plurality of the bumper foot hinges 308, a plurality of the upper post-locks 306, etc.).

[0082] In some embodiments, a third of the first ledges 382 positioned between the second of die first ledges 382 and the central portion 383 of the locking member body 381 may be configured to engage the upper post-lock 306 in the third of the intermediate configurations of the lifting assembly 340 so as to secure the lifting assembly 340 in the third of the intermediate configurations, hi various embodiments, additional of the first ledges 382 (e.g, a fourth of foe first ledges 382, a fifth of the first ledges 382, etc.) positioned between a previous of the first ledges 382 (e.g., the third of foe first ledges 382 for foe fourth of the first ledges 382, foe fourth of the first ledges 382 for foe fifth of the first ledges 382, etc.) and foe central portion 383 of foe locking member body 381 may be configured to engage foe upper post-lock 306 in foe additional of foe intermediate configurations (e.g., foe fourth of the intermediate configurations for foe fourth of the first ledges 382, the fifth of the intermediate configurations for the fifth of the first ledges 382, etc.) so as to secure the lifting assembly 340 in the additional of foe intermediate configurations.

[0083] According to the example embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-5, die locking member 380 includes seven of the first ledges 382. According to the example embodiment shown in FIG* 8, the locking member 380 includes seventeen of the first ledges 382. In other embodiments, the locking member 380 includes a different number of first ledges 382 (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, between seven and seventeen, more than seventeen, etc.).

[0084] A second ledge 384 (e.g., second hook, lowered ledge, etc.) is defined at a locking member body second end of the locking member body 381 opposite die locking member body first end of the locking member body 381 , The second ledges 384 is configured to engage a lower post-lock 309 provided on one of the bottom components 302 in the lowered configuration of the lifting assembly 340 so as to secure the lifting assembly 340 in the lowered configuration. In some embodiments, a height of the lower post-lock 309 may be adjustable up or down so as to accommodate variances in minimum heights of a bed and / or bed frame disposed on the lift system 300. In various embodiments, the lifting assembly 340 includes one of the lower post-locks 309 for each of the locking members 380 (e.g., a plurality of the lower post-lock 309, etc.).

[0085] A third ledge 385 (e.g., third hook, raised ledge, etc.) is defined by the locking member body 381 between the first ledges 382 and the second ledge 384, For example, the third ledge 385 may be positioned between the locking member body first end and the locking member body second end proximate the central portion 383 if the locking member body 381. In some embodiments, the third ledge 385 is positioned equidistant from the locking member body first end and the locking member second end. The third ledge 385 is configured to engage the upper post-lock 306 in the raised configuration of the lifting assembly 340 so as to secure the lifting assembly 340 in the raised configuration. In some embodiments, each of the first ledges 382 and the third ledge 385 extend in a first orthogonal direction away from the locking member body 381 , and the second ledge 384 extends in a second orthogonal direction away from the locking member body 381, opposite the first orthogonal direction. This allows the locking member 380 to rotate about its central portion 383 to cause (i) the first ledges 382 and the third ledge 385 and (ii) the second ledge 384 to either engage or disengage the upper postlock 306 and the lower post-lock 309, respectively.

[0086] In some embodiments, each of the locking members 380 includes a locking biasing member 386 coupled to the locking member body 381 and configured to urge the locking member 380 into the locked position in each of the raised configuration, the intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration of the lifting assembly 340. For example, a first end of the locking biasing member 386 may be coupled to one of the bottom components 302 and a second end of the locking biasing member 386 may be coupled to a portion of the locking member body 381 proximate the first ledge 382 and offset from the central portion 383, This configuration of the locking biasing member 386 causes a tension force exerted by the locking biasing member 386 on the locking member body 381 to rotate the locking member body 381 about the central portion 383 towards the locked position in each of the raised configuration, the intermediate configurations, and lowered configuration of the lifting assembly 340.

[0087] The lock assembly 360 is operatively coupled to the lifting assembly 340, For example, the lock assembly 360 may be coupled to a longitudinal end of the lift system 300, for example, the top components 330. As shown in FIG, 2, a pair of lock assembly coupling amis 371 are coupled to one of the top components 330 and extend longitudinally away therefrom, A lock assembly coupling cross-bar 873 is positioned perpendicular to the pair of lock assemblycoupling arms 371 and is coupled at its longitudinal ends thereto, for example, via coupling members. The lock assembly 360 is coupled to the lock assembly coupling cross-bar 873 via a lock assembly mounting bracket 370.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the lock assembly 360 includes a lock assembly housing 361 defining an internal volume within which components of the lock assembly 360 are disposed. The lock assembly housing 361 may include a housing base 362 coupled io a housing portion 364 so as to form the lock assembly housing 36 L The housing base 362 may be shaped so as to define a cavity 363 for receiving a distal end of the release system 390. The lock assembly 360 includes a lock / unlock member 366, and a set of cables 376 (e.g., one or a plurality of cables) coupling the lock / unlock member 366 to the locking member 380.

[9089] The lock / unlock member 366 is pivotally mounted at a lock / unlock member first end 367 within the lock assembly housing 361. A lock / unlock member second end 369 opposite the lockAmlock member first end 367 is free such that the lock / unlock member 366 can swing about &e lockAmlock member first end 367 causing the lock / unlock member second end 369 towards or away from the cavity 363, In some embodiments, the lock / unlock member 366 may include a pendulum type tumbler configured to swing side-to-side as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. In other embodiments, the lock / unlock member 366 may be configured to move tront-to-back. In still other embodiments, the lock / unlock member 366 may be slidable member, for example, mounted on a rail.

[0090] A first end of the set of cables 376 is coupled to the lock / unlock member second end 369 of the lock / unlock member 366. The second end of the set of cables 376 opposite the first end is coupled to the locking member 380 at a location on the locking member body 381 proximate to where the locking biasing member 386 is coupled to locking member body 381. The biasing force of the locking biasing member 386 is configured to bias the lockAmlock member second end away from cavity 363 in the unlocked position of the locking member 380.

[0091] The release system 390 is configured to be selectively engaged with the lock / unlock member 366 by a user to cause the lock / unlock member 366 to move the locking member 380 into the unlocked position. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7^ the release system 390 includes a release arm 392 (e.g., a release key, a key, etc,) having a release magnet 398disposed at a distal end of the release arm 392. The release system 390 includes a handle 394 coupled to a proximate end of the release arm 392 that is configured to be engaged by the user for handling the release system 390. In some embodiments, release arm 392 may include two or more portions that are separable from each other, so as to allow compact storage of the release system 390.

[0092] The distal end, and thereby the release magnet 398, is configured to be inserted into the cavity 363 while remaining outside the internal volume defined by the lock assembly housing 361. The attractive force of the release magnet 398 urges the lock / unlock member second end 369 towards the cavity 363 (e.g., towards an outer wall of the cavity 363 located within the internal volume of the lock assembly housing 361, etc.). In some embodiments, a lock / unlock member magnet 368 is disposed at the lock / unlock member second end 369 so as to increase the attractive force between the distal end of the release arm 392 and the lock / unlock member second end 369. Movement of the lock / unlock member second end 369 pulls the set of cables 376 and thereby, the locking member 380 into the unlocked position allowing the lifting assembly 340 to be moved between the raised configuration, the intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration.

[0093] A bend 396 is defined in the release aim 392 proximate to the distal end of the release arm 392 such that the distal end forms a hook that is configured to engage a portion of the lock assembly housing 361, for example, a portion of a side wall of the cavity 363, The distal end hooks on to the portion of the lock assembly housing 361 allowing the user to pull the lock assembly housing 361, and thereby the lifting assembly 340, from the lowered configuration into the raised configuration, or push the lock assembly housing 361 and thereby, the lifting assembly 340 into the lowered configuration. The bend 396 may define angle and / or the release arm 392 may have a length that allows the user to activate the lock assembly 360 using the release system 390 while the user is in a standing position. Tn some embodiments, the bend 396 may have an angle in a range of about 70 degrees to about HO degrees (e.g., 70 degrees, 80 degrees, 90 degrees, 100 degrees, or 110 degrees, inclusive). In some embodiments, the release arm 392 may have an adjustable length so as to accommodate users having different heights.[0094J The release system 390 thus serves the dual purpose of serving as a key for moving the locking member 380 into the unlocked position, as well as a handle to facilitate a user in moving the lifting assembly 340 between the raised configuration, the intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration. Moreover, since the release system 390 is removable, the user can take and store the release system 390, for example, once the user has made the bed and moved the lifting assembly 340 and thereby the bed into the lowered configuration so as to inhibit unauthorized manipulation of the lifting assembly 340.

[0095] As previously described, the lifting assembly 340 is movable between the raised configuration shown in FIG- 2 and the intermediate configurations, one of which is shown in FIG. 4, In the intermediate configurations, the first strut second end and the second strut second end are positioned in one of the intermediate orientations in between proximate to the bottom components 302 and distal to the bottom components 302. The bed positioned thereon is raised or lifted upwards off of the surface in which the plurality of bottom components 302 are positioned. When the lifting assembly 340 is in the lowered configuration shown in FIG. 3, the lifting assembly biasing members 346 may bias the lifting assembly 340 towards the intermediate configurations to facilitate lifting of the lifting assembly 340 towards the intermediate configurations. When the lifting assembly 340 is in the first of the intermediate configurations (e,g., the intermediate configuration closest to the lowered configuration, etc.), the lifting assembly biasing members 346 may bias the lifting assembly 340 towards the second of the intermediate configurations to facilitate lifting of the lifting assembly 340 towards the second of the intermediate configurations. Moreover, the damper 356 dampens downwards motion of the lifting assembly 340 towards the lowered configuration, thereby inhibiting accidental dropping of the bed from the intermediate configurations to the lowered configuration that can cause injury (e.g,, of the user pf the bed 10, pf the operator of tile lifting assembly 340, etc.).

[0096] in the intermediate configurations, the first strut 344 and the second strut 354 form intermediate angles with the bottom components 302. The intermediate angles are in a range of about 5 and about 85 degrees (5 degrees, 15 degrees, 25 degrees, 35 degrees, 45 degrees, 55 degrees, 65 degrees, 75 degrees, or 85 degrees, inclusive). In some embodiments, each of the intermediate angles may be equally spaced along the range (e.g„ equally spaced apart by 20degrees, equally spaced apart by 15 degrees, equally spaced apart by 10 degrees, equally spaced apart by 8 degrees, equally spaced apart by 5 degrees, equally spaced apart by about 4,7 degrees, etc.). For example, a first of the intermediate angles for the first of the intermediate configurations may be ta a first range of about 5 degrees to about 25 degrees, a second of the intermediate angles for the second of the intermediate configurations may be in a second range of about 25 degrees to about 45 degrees, a third of the intermediate angles for the third of the intermediate configurations may be in a third range of about 45 degrees to about 65 degrees, and a fourth of the intermediate angles for the fourth of the intermediate configurations may be in a fourth range of about 65 degrees to about 85 degrees. In such embodiments, each of the first ledges 382 are configured to engage the upper post-lock 306 in one of the intermediate configurations in order to position the bed at the intermediate angle corresponding with each of the intermediate configurations.

[0097] FIG. 5 shows a side view of the raised configuration shown in FIG. 2. In the raised configuration, the first strut second end and the second strut second end are positioned distal to the plurality of bottom components 302 so that the plurality of top components 330, and thereby the bad positioned thereon, are raised or lifted upwards off the surface on which the plurality of bottom components 302 are positioned. The lifting assembly biasing members 346 bias the lifting assembly 340 towards the raised configuration facilitating lifting of the lifting assembly 340 towards the raised configuration. Moreover, the damper 356 dampens downwards motion of the lifting assembly 340 towards the lowered configuration, thereby inhibiting accidental dropping of the bed from the raised to the lowered configuration that can cause injury. In the raised configuration, the first stmt 344 and the second strut 354 form a raised angle with the bottom components 302. The raised angle may be about 90 degrees^ In such embodiments, the third ledge 385 is configured to engage the upper post-lock 306 in the raised configuration in order to position the bed at the raised angle.

[0098] FIGS. 11-14 show tire lift system 100 configured as a lift system 500. The lift system 500 includes, the bottom assembly 102 as bottom assembly 502, the top assembly 130 as top assembly 530 configured to support a structure, and the lifting assembly 140 as lifting assembly 540, For example, a bed may be disposed on the top assembly 530. The lift system 500 may be removably or permanently coupled to the bed 10 (or bed frame).

[0099] The bottom assembly 502 is configured to be positioned on a surface (e.g., hardwood floor, cemented floor, marbles floor, vinyl floor, carpet, etc.) and may include flat or rigid plates configured to bear a weight of the lifting assembly 540, the top assembly 530, and the bed 10. The bottom assembly 502 includes a plurality of bottom axial members 504 (e.g., bottom axial beams, bottom axial bodies, etc.) extending along a length of the bottom assembly 502. In other embodiments, the bottom assembly 502 includes a single of the bottom axial members 504. The bottom axial members 504 are configured to stabilize the lift system 500, For example, a first of the bottom axial members 504 may extend along a first side of the bottom assembly 502 and a second of the bottom axial members 504 may extend, along an opposing second side of the bottom assembly 502. In some embodiments, the bottom axial members 504 may extend substantially parallel to each other along the length of the bottom assembly 502. In some embodiments, the bottom axial members 504 may configured to be extendable (e.g., telescoping, etc.) such that a length of the bottom axial members 504 may be adjusted.

[0100] The bottom assembly 502 includes a plurality of bottom support members 506 coupled between the plurality of bottom axial members 504. For example, the bottom support members 506 may extend between the bottom axial members 504 to couple the bottom axial members 504 together. As another example, a first of the bottom support members 506 may extend between the bottom axial members 504 at a first end of the bottom assembly 502 and a second of the bottom support members 506 may extend between the bottom axial members 504 at an opposing second end of the bottom assembly 502. In some embodiments, the bottom support members 506 may extend substantially perpendicular to the bottom axial members 504. In some embodiments, the bottom support members 506 may configured to be extendable (e.g., telescoping, etc.) such that a length of the bottom support members 506 may be adjusted. The lifting assembly 540 may be coupled to at least one of the bottom support members 506 to couple the lifting assembly 540 to the bottom assembly 502.

[0101] In various embodiments, the bottom assembly 502 includes feet (e.g., fUmiture: legs, furniture gliders, etc.) coupled to a bottom surfbee of at least one of the bottom axial members 504 or the bottom support members 506 configured to interface with the surface supporting the bottom assembly 502. The feet may be configured as adjustable feet that may accommodatesome misalignment between the bottom assembly 502 and the surface supporting the bottom assembly 502,

[0102] The top assembly 530 is coupled to the bottom assembly 502 via the lifting assembly 540. Hie top assembly 530 is structured to support the bed 10, The top assembly 530 includes a plurality of top axial members 532 coupled the lifting assembly 540 and extending along a length of the top assembly 530. In some embodiments, the top axial members 532 extends substantially parallel to the bottom axial members 504. In some embodiments, the top axial members 532 are configured to be extendable (e.g., telescoping, etc.) such that a length of the top axial members 532 may be adjusted in order to accommodate different sizes of the bed 10.

[0103] The top assembly 530 includes a plurality of top support members 534 (e.g., top support beam, top support body, etc.) coupled between the top axial members 532. For example, a first of the top support members 534 may be coupled between the top axial members 532 at a first end of the top assembly 530 and a second of the top support members 534 may be coupled between the top axial members 532 at an opposing second end of the top assembly 530. In some embodiments, the top support members 534 may extend substantially parallel to the bottom support members 506. In some embodiments, the top support members 534 may extend substantially perpendicular to the top axial members 532. In some embodiments, the top Support members 534 are configured to be extendable (e.g., telescoping, etc.) such that a length of the top support members 534 may be adjusted in order to accommodate different sizes of the bed 10.

[0104] The lifting assembly 540 includes a plurality of lift support members 542 coupled to the bottom assembly 502. The lift support members 542 are configured to couple the lifting assembly 540 to the bottom assembly 502. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11-14, the lift support members 542 are coupled between the bottom support members 506. For example, the lift support members 542 may extend between a first of the bottom support members 506 and a second of the bottom support members 506. In other embodiments, the lift support members 542 are coupled between the bottom axial members 504. The lifting assemblyincludes a mounting member 544 coupled to the lift support members 542. The mounting member 544 may extend between the lift support members 542.

[6105] The lifting assembly 540 includes a plurality of lower pivot bars 546 pivotably coupled to the lift support members 542. For example, a first of the lower pivot bars 546 may be coupled to the lift support members 542 proximate first ends of the lift support members 542 and a second of the lower pivot bars 546 may be coupled to the lift support members 542 proximate opposing second ends of the lift support members 542. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11-14, the lower pivot bars 546 extend between the lift support members 542. The lifting assembly 540 includes a plurality of mounting brackets 548 coupled to the lower pivot bars 546. For example, a first pair of the mounting brackets 548 may be coupled to a first Of the lower pivot bars 546 and a second pair Of the mounting brackets 548 may be coupled to a second of the lower pivot bars 546. The mounting brackets 548 are configured to pivot with the lower pivot bars 546 relative to the lift support members 542. For example, the mounting brackets 548 may be fixedly coupled to the lower pivot bars 546. In other embodiments, the lifting assembly 540 includes a single of the mounting brackets 548 coupled to one of the lower pivot bars 546.

[0106] The lift assembly 540 includes a plurality of upper pivot bars 550 pivotably coupled to the top axial members 532. For example, a first of the upper pivot bars 550 may be coupled to the top axial members 532 proximate first ends of the top axial members 532 and a second of the plurality of upper pivot bars 550 may be coupled to the top axial members 532 proximate opposing second ends of the top axial members 532, In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11—14, the plurality of upper pivot bars 550 extend between the top axial members 532.

[0107] The lift assembly lifting assembly 540 includes a plurality of lift arms 552 coupled between the lower pivot bars 546 and the upper pivot bars 550. For example, a first pair of the lift arms 552 may be coupled between a first of the lower pivot bars 546 and a first of the upper pivot bars 550 and a second pair of the lift arms 552 may be coupled between a second of the lower pivot bars 546 and a second of the upper pivot bars 550. The lift arms 552 are configured to pivot with the lower pivot bars 546 relative to the lift support members 542 and to pivot with the upper pivot bars 550 relative to the top axial members 532 such that rotation of the lowerpivot bars 546 and / or the upper pivot bars 550 causes the lift arms 552 to rotate relative to the lift support members 542 and the top axial members 532 to lift or lower the top assembly 530 relative to the bottom assembly 502. For example, the lift arms 552 may be fixedly coupled to the lower pivot bars 546 and fixedly coupled to the upper pivot bars 550 such that rotation of the bed frame brackets 456 drives rotation of the upper pivot bars 550 through the lift arms 552.

[0108] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11-14, the lifting assembly 540 includes a plurality of actuators 554 (e.g>, lifting actuators, locking mechanisms, etc.). The actuators 554 are each coupled between the mounting member 544 and one of the mounting brackets 548.The actuators 554 are configured to facilitate movement of the lifting assembly 540 it moves from the raised position to the lowered position and from die lowered position to the raised position. For example, the actuators 554 may be transitioned between a retracted configuration that corresponds with the lowered position of the lifting assembly 540, an extended configuration that corresponds with the raised position of the lifting assembly 540, and a plurality of intermediate configurations that correspond with the intermediate positions of the 540. In other embodiments, the lifting assembly 540 includes a single of the actuators 554 coupled between the mounting member 544 and one of the mounting brackets 548.

[0109] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the actuators 554 are configured as locking actuators 556 (e.g., gas springs, gas actuators, position actuators, locking elements, locking members, etc.). The locking actuators 556 are configured to be alternated (e.g., manually alternated, alternated by an operator of the lift system 500, etc.) between an open configuration (e.g., an unlocked configuration, etc.) that allows movement of the lifting assembly 540 between the raised position and the lowered position and a closed configuration (e.g., a locked configuration, etc.) that inhibits movement of the lifting assembly 540 between the raised position and the lowered position.

[0110] In some embodiments, the locking actuators 556 may be configured as gas springs.When the gas springs are in the open configuration (e.g., a valve of the gas spring is open, etc.), air (e.g., atmospheric air, pressurized air, fluid, etc.) may flow into and / or out of the gas springs to allow for the gas springs to move between the extended configuration and the retracted configuration such that the lifting assembly 540 may move between the raised position and thelowered position. When the gas springs are in the closed configuration (e.g., a valve of the gas spring is closed, etc.), air is inhibited from flowing into and / or out of the gas springs to inhibit the gas springs from moving between the extended configuration and the retracted configuration such that the gas springs inhibit the lifting assembly 540 from moving the between the raised position and the lowered position. As a result, by placing the locking actuators 556 in the closed configuration, the lifting assembly 540 may be inhibited from leaving the raised position, the lowered position, and / or the intermediate positions between the raised position and the lowered position (e.g,, the locking actuators 556 may lock the lifting assembly 540 in the raised position, the lowered position, and the intermediate positions, etc.).

[0111] In some embodiments, the locking actuators 556 may be configured as dampers that damp motion of the lifting assembly 540 as it moves from the raised position to the towered position and from the lowered position to the raised position. The dampening effect of the damper may reduce the effective weight of the bed 10 to less than 20 lbs., thereby reducing a chance of injury if the lifting assembly 540 and thereby, the bed 10 is accidentally dropped from the raised configuration to the lowered configuration. For example, when the locking actuators 556 are configured as the gas Springs and are in the open configuration, the flow of the air into and / or out of the gas springs may be restricted (e.g., by a size of an inlet and / or outlet of a valve of the gas spring, etc.) to inhibit the flow of the air into and / or out of the gas springs such that the gas springs damp the motion of the lifting assembly 540 as it moves from the raised position to the lowered position and from the lowered position to the raised position.

[0112] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the lifting assembly 540 includes a plurality of biasing members 558 (e.g., tension springs, helical springs, extension springs, bungee cords, etc.) each coupled between the mounting member 544 and one of the mounting brackets 548. For example, the actuators 554 may be coupled between the mounting member 544 and the mounting brackets 548 coupled to the lower pivot bar 546 on a first side (e.g., a front side, a head side, etc.) of the lift system 50Q and the plurality of biasing members 558 may be coupled between the mounting member 544 and the mounting brackets 548 coupled to the lower pivot bar 546 on an opposing second side (e.g,, a rear side, a foot side, etc;) of the lift system 500, The biasing members 558 may be configured to urge the lifting assembly 540 towards the raised position. In other embodiments, the lifting assembly 540 includes a single oftiie biasing members 558 coupled between the mounting member 544 and one of the mounting brackets 548. In still other embodiments, the lifting assembly 540 does not inchide die biasing members 558. In some embodiments, the biasing members 558 may provide sufficient biasing force to lift the bed 10 having a weight in a range of 60 lbs. to 600 lbs. (e.g., to support a maximum Underwriter’s Laboratory approved weight of 300 lbs. for a twin bed or 600 lbs. for a King or California King bed). The weight range may be different in other embodiments.

[0113] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the actuators 554 are configured as driving actuators 560 (e.g., activating actuators, linear actuators, locking actuators etc.). The driving actuators 560 are configured to alternate between foe extended configuration and the retracted configuration to drive the lifting assembly 540 between foe raised position and foe lowered position. For example, foe controller 200 may include a user input from foe operator controls 210 corresponding to transitioning the lifting assembly 540 from the lowered position to the raised position and foe controller 200 may provide a control signal to foe driving actuators 560 that cause foe driving actuators 560 to transition from foe retracted configuration into the extended configuration such that the lifting assembly 540 is transitioned from the lowered position to foe raised position. The driving actuators 560 are configured to alternate into a plurality of intermediate configurations between the extended configuration and foe retracted configuration to position the lifting assembly 540 in any of foe intermediate positions between the lowered position and foe raised position.

[0114] In some embodiments, the driving actuators 560 may lock the lifting assembly 540 in the raised position, the lowered position, and the intermediate positions when the driving actuators 560 position the lifting assembly 540 in the raised position, the lowered position, and the intermediate positions. For example, the driving actuators 560 may be in an unlocked configuration when causing the lifting assembly 540 from transition between the lowered position, the raised position, and the intermediate positions and a locked configuration when inhibiting the lifting assembly 540 from transitioning between the lowered position, the raised position, and the intermediate positions. When the actuators 554 are configured as the driving actuators 560, die controller 200 is a release system that alternates the driving actuators 560 between foe unlocked configuration and foe locked configuration.

[0115] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the driving actuators 560 each include a motor 562 configured to operate the driving actuators 560 between the extended configuration and the retracted configuration. For example, the controller 200 may provide control signals to the motors 562 that cause the motors 562 to operate the driving actuators 560 to one of the intermediate configurations between the extended configuration and the retracted configuration.

[0116] In some embodiments, the controller 200 may provide control signals to the motors 562 that cause the motors 562 to operate the driving actuators 560 based on user inputs received from the operator interface 212 configured as a wireless remote. For example, an operator of the lift system 500 may press a button of the operator interface 212 associated with moving the lifting assembly 54C into a first of the intermediate positions, the operator interface 212 may wirelessly transmit user input data corresponding to the button of the operator interface 212 to the controller 200, the controller 200 may generate a control signal corresponding to the first of the intermediate positions of the lifting assembly 540 and provide the control signal to the motors 562, and the motors 562 may drive the driving actuators 560 into a first of the intermediate configurations of the driving actuators 560 that corresponds with the first of the intermediate positions of the lifting assembly 540 such that the lifting assembly 540 is placed in the first of the intermediate positions.

[0117] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the lift system 500 includes a release system 590 (e:g., a lock assembly , a locking assembly, etc.). The release system 590 is configured to selectively inhibit the actuators 554 from moving between the extended configuration and the retracted configuration. For example, the release system 590 may be alternated between a released configuration that allows for the actuators 554 to move between the extended configuration and the retracted configuration and a retained configuration that inhibits the actuators 554 from moving between the extended configuration and the retracted configuration. For example, when the actuators 554 are the locking actuators 556 configured as the gas springs, the release system 590 may be positioned in the released configuration to place die gas springs in the open configuration such that air may flow into and / or out of the gas springs to allow the gas springs to move between the extended configuration and the retracted configuration. The release system 590 may be positioned in the retained configuration to placetiie gas springs in the closed configuration such that air is inhibited from flowing into and / or out of die gas springs to inhibit die gas springs fiom moving between the extended configuration and the retracted configuration (e.g., lock a configuration of the gas springs, etc.).

[0118] The release system 590 includes a lock housing 592 configured to be coupled to at least one of the bed 10, the bottom assembly 502, the top assembly 530, the lifting assembly 540, or the box spring 30. The lock housing 592 is configured to house a locking system 594. The locking system 594 is coupled (e.g., communicably coupled, etc.) to the locking actuators 556. For example, the locking system 594 may be communicably coupled to the locking actuators 556 via a cable (e.g., a control cable, etc.).

[0119] When the release system 590 is alternated between the retained configuration and the released configuration, the locking system 594 may provide signals (e.g., mechanical signals, electrical signals, etc.) that cause the locking actuators 556 to alternate between the open configuration and the closed configuration. For example, when the release system 590 is placed in the retained configuration, the locking system 594 may manipulate a control cable coupled between the locking system 594 and the locking actuators 556 to cause the locking actuators 556 to be placed in the closed configuration such that the lifting assembly 540 is locked in a position (e.g., inhibited from moving from the position, etc.). When the release system 590 is placed in the released configuration, the locking system 594 may manipulate the control cable to cause the locking actuators 556 to be placed in the open configuration such that the lifting assembly 540 is unlocked and allowed to move between the raised position and the lowered position.

[0120] The release system 590 includes a key 596 (e.g., a release key , etc.) configured to interface with the locking system 594 to aherate the release system 590 between the retained configuration and the released configuration. For example, the key 596 may include a specific shape configured to interface with a corresponding specific shape of the locking system 594. When the operator of the lift system 500 interfaces the key 596 with the locking system 594, the operator may alternate the release system 590 between the retained configuration and the released configuration (e.g., by turning the key 596, etc.). The key 596 may inhibit unintended persons (e.g., occupants, etc.) from alternating the release system 590 between the retainedconfiguration and the released configuration such that the unintended persons are inhibited from transitioning the lifting assembly 540 between the lowered position and the raised position.

[0121] FIGS, i 5-18 show the lift system 100 configured as a lift system 700. The lift system 700 includes the bottom assembly 102 as bottom assembly 702 (e.g., a bottom support, a bottom component, etc.), the top assembly i 30 as top assembly 730 (e.g., a top support, a top component etc.) configured to support a structure (e.g., a bed, a bed frame, etc.), the lifting assembly 140 as lifting assembly 740, and the lock assembly 160 as lock assembly 760. For example, a bed may be disposed on the top assembly 730. The lift system 70G maybe removably or permanently coupled to the bed 10 (or bed frame).

[0122] The bottom assembly 702 is configured to be positioned on a surface (e.g., hardwood floor, cemented floor, marbles floor, vinyl floor, carpet, etc.) and may include flat or rigid plates configured to bear a weight of the lifting assembly 740, the top assembly 730, and the bed IQ. The bottom assembly 702 includes a bottom axial member 704 (e.g., bottom axial beam, bottom axial body, etc.) coupled to the lifting assembly 740 and extending along a length of the bottom assembly 702. In some embodiments, the bottom assembly 702 includes a plurality of bottom support members 706 (e.g., bottom support beams, bottom support bodies, etc.) coupled to the bottom assembly 702 configured to stabilize the lift system 700. For example, a first of the bottom support members 706 may be coupled to a first end of the bottom axial member 704 and extend substantially perpendicular to the bottom axial member 704 and a second of the bottom support members 706 may be coupled to an opposing second end of the bottom axial member 704 and extend substantially parallel to the first of the bottom support members 706, ha some embodiments, the bottom support members 706 may configured to be extendable (e.g., telescoping, etc.) such that a length of the bottom support members 706 may be adjusted. In some embodiments, the length of the bottom support members 706 is adjustable in a range of 32 inches to 55 inches.

[0123] In various embodiments, the bottom assembly 702 includes feet (e.g., furniture legs; furniture gliders, etc.) coupled to a bottom surface of at least one of the bottom axial member 704 or the bottom support members 706 configured to. interface with the surface supporting the bottom assembly 702. The feet may be configured as adjustable feet that may accommodatesome misalignment between the bottom assembly 702 and the surface supporting the bottom assembly 702,

[0124] The top assembly 730 is coupled to the bottom assembly 702 via the lifting assembly 740. Hie top assembly 730 is structured to support the bed 10, The top assembly 730 includes a top axial member 732 (e.g., top axial beam, top axial body, etc.) coupled to the lifting assembly 740 and extending along a length of the top assembly 730. In some embodiments, the top axial member 732 extends substantially parallel to the bottom axial member 704 of the bottom assembly 702. The top axial member 732 is configured to be extendable (e.g., telescoping, etc.) such that a length of the top axial member 732 may be adjusted in order to accommodate different sizes of the bed 10, Fur example, the top axial member 732 may be contracted to be positioned in a contracted configuration to accoHate the bed 10 in a single size and may be extended to be positioned in an expanded configuration to accommodate the bed 10 in a California king size. In various embodiments, the top axial member 732 maybe adjusted to accommodate the bed ID in any of the suitable shapes or sizes discussed herein. In some embodiments, the length of the top axial member 732 is adjustable in a range of 55 inches to 83 inches.

[0125] The top assembly 730 includes a plurality of top support members 734 (e.g.Ttop support beam, top support body, etc.) coupled to the top axial member 732 and configured to support the bed 10. For example, a first of the top support members 734 may be coupled to a first end of the top axial member 732 and extend substantially perpendicular to the top axial member 732, a second of the top support members 734 may be coupled to an opposing second end of the top axial member 732 and extend substantially parallel to the first of the top support members 734, and a third of the top support members 734 may be coupled to the top axial member 732 between the first end and the opposing second end of the second axial portion and extend substantially parallel to the first of the top support members 734.

[0126] The top support members 734 each include retainer brackets 736 configured to retain the bed 10 when the top assembly 730 is supporting the bed 10. For example, each of the top support members 734 may include a first of the retainer brackets 736 extending upwards fem a first end of the top support members 734 and a second of the retainer brackets 736extending upwards from an opposing second end of the top support members 734, such that the bed 10 is positioned between the first of the retainer brackets 736 and the second of the retainer brackets 736 when the top assembly 730 is supporting the bed 10. In some embodiments, the retainer brackets 736 are configured to be coupled to tire bed 10 when the top assembly 730 is supporting the bed 10. For example, the retainer brackets 736 may be configured to receive fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) to couple the retainer brackets 736 to the box spring 30 when the top assembly 130 is supporting the bed 10.

[0127] The top support members 734 are configured to be extendable (e.g., telescoping, etc.) such that a length of the top support members 734 may be adjusted in order to accommodate different sizes of the bed 10, For example, the top support members 734 may be contracted to be positioned in a contracted configuration io accoHate the bed 10 in a single size and may be extended to be positioned in an expanded configuration to accommodate the bed 10 in a California king size. In various embodiments, the top support members 734 may be adjusted to accommodate the bed ID in any of the suitable shapes or sizes discussed herein. In some embodiments, the length of the top support members 734 is adjustable in a range of 38 inches to 60 inches.

[0128] Each of the top support members 734 include a plurality of legs 738 (e.g., furniture legs, support legs, etc.) configured to interface with the surface supporting the bottom assembly 702 when the lift system 700 is in the lowered configuration. For example, each of the top support members 734 may include a first of the legs 738 extending downwards from the first end of the top support members 734 and a second of the legs 738 extending downwards ftom the opposing second end of the top support members 734. The legs 738 may increase a stability of the bed 10 supported by the lift system 700 when the lift system 700 is in the lowered configuration.

[0129] The lifting assembly 740 includes a plurality of lifting members 742. Each of the lifting members 742 has a lifting member first end pivotally coupled to the bottom axial member 704 of the bottom assembly 102 and a lifting member second end pivotably coupled to the top axial member 732 of the top assembly 730. The lifting assembly 740 is movable between a raised position and a lowered position. In the lowered position, the lifting membersecond end of each of the lifting members 742 is positioned proximate the bottom axial member 704 such that the top assembly 730, and thereby the bed 10 supported by the top assembly 730 are positioned in the lowered position proximate the surface40. In some embodiments, the legs 738 of the top assembly 730 contact the surface supporting the bottom assembly 702 when the lifting assembly 740 is in the lowered position* In the raised position, the lifting member second end of each of the lifting members 742 is positioned distal to the bottom assembly 702 such that die top assembly 730, and thereby the bed supported by the top assembly 730, are raised or lifted upwards off the surface supporting the bottom assembly 702,[01301 In some embodiments, the lifting assembly 740 includes a biasing member 744 (e.g., tension springs, helical springs, extension springs, a bungee cord, etc.) coupled between one of the lifting members 742 and the bottom assembly 702 so as to urge the lifting assembly 740 toward the raised position. In various embodiments, the lifting assembly 740 includes a plurality of the biasing members 744 coupled between one of the lifting members 742 and the bottom assembly 702. For example, the lifting assembly 740 may include two of the biasing members 744 coupled between one of the lifting members 742 and the bottom assembly 702, one of the biasing members 744 coupled between each of the lifting members 742 and the bottom assembly 702, two of the biasing members 744 coupled between each of the lifting members 742 and the bottom components, four of the biasing members 744 coupled between one of the lifting members 742 and the bottom assembly 702, etc. In some embodiments, the one or more biasing members may provide sufficient biasing force to lift the bed 10 having a weight in a range of 60 lbs. to 600 lbs. (e.g,, to support a maximum Underwriter’s Laboratory approved weight of 300 lbs. for a twin bed or 600 lbs. for a King or California King bed). The weight range may be different in other embodiments.

[0131] One or more dampers (e.g., a hydraulic shock absorber, a twin tube shock absorber, a mono tube shock absorber, a pneumatic shock absorber, or any other suitable damper) may be coupled between one or more of the lifting members 742 and the bottom assembly 702. The dampers may be configured to damp motion of the lifting assembly 740 as it moves from the raised position to the lowered position and from the lowered position to the raised position. The dampening effect of the damper may reduce the effective weight of the bed 10 to less than 20lbs., thereby reducing a chance of injury if the lifting assembly 740 and thereby, the bed 10 is accidentally dropped from the raised configuration to the lowered configuration.

[0132] The lifting assembly 740 includes a locking member 746 (e.g., a locking element, etc,) pivotably cospied to one of the lifting members 742. The locking member 746 is configured be alternated between a lock position (e.g., a locked configuration, etc.) to secure the lift system 700 in the raised configuration or the lowered configuration and an unlocked position (eg., an unlocked configuration, etc.) to allow the lift system 700 be adjusted between the raised configuration and the lowered configuration.

[0133] The locking member 746 includes a first ledge 748 configured to engage an upper post 750 coupled to the bottom axial member 704 to secure the lift system 700 in the raised configuration when the locking member 746 is in the locked position. For example, when the lift system 700 is in the raised position, the locking member 746 may be rotated relative to the one of the lifting members 742 to the locked position to engage the first ledge 748 with the upper post 750 to inhibit the lifting assembly 740 from being able to reposition the lift system 700 from the raised configuration to the lowered configuration. The locking member 746 includes a second ledge 752 configured to engage a lower post 754 coupled to the bottom axial member 704 to secure the lift system 700 in the lowered position. For example, when the lift System 700 is in the lowered position, the locking member 746 may be rotated relative to the one of the lifting members 742 to the locked position to engage the second ledge 752 with the lower post 754 to inhibit the lifting assembly 740 from being able to reposition the lift system 700 from the lowered configuration to the raised configuration.

[0134] In some embodiments, the first ledge 748 may be positioned on a first end of the locking member 746 and the second ledge 752 may be positioned on an opposing second end of the locking member 746. In various embodiments, the first ledge 748 may extend in a first direction and the second ledge 752 may extend in a second direction opposite from the first direction such that the locking member 746 may be rotated in a direction to engage the first ledge 748 with the upper post 750 when the lift system 700 is in the raised configuration and the locking member 746 may be rotated in the same direction to engage the second ledge 752 whh the lower post 754 when the lift system 100 is in the lowered configuration.[0135J In some embodiments, the locking member includes a locking biasing member coupled to die locking member 746 and configured to selectively urge the locking member 746 into the locked position in the raised configuration and / or the lowered configuration.

[0136] The lock assembly 760 is coupled to the lifting assembly 740 and is configured to alternate the locking member 746 between the locked position and the unlocked position. In some embodiments, thelock assembly 760 may be configured to be operated by the user to move the lift system 700 between the lowered configuration and the raised configuration. For example, the lock assembly 760 may include a handle (e.g., a hook, etc.) configured to be gripped by the user such that the user may pull upwards on the handle to move the lift system 700 into the raised configuration or the user may push downwards on the handle to move the lift system 700 into the lowered configuration. In some embodiments, the lock assembly 760 may include a linking component (e.g., cables, etc.) coupled to the locking member 746.

[0137] In some embodiments, the lift system 700 includes the release system 190. The release system 190 is coupled to at least one of the lifting assembly 740 or the lock assembly 760 and is configured to inhibit the locking member 746 from moving between the locked position or the unlocked position. The release system 190 may be engaged by the user to inhibit unauthorized adjustment of the lift system 700 between the raised configuration and the lowered configuration.

[0138] Various attachments can be coupled to the lift system 300, the lift system 500, the lift system 700, or any other system described herein to accommodate various beds or configurations of beds. For example, FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the lift system 300 showing a hospitality style bed base 900 coupled to the lift system 300. The bed base 900 may include set of orthogonal beams 902 oriented perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the lift system 300 and coupled to the longitudinal ends of each of the top components 330 via the bed base mounting brackets 336. First flanges 904 extend from an axial end of the orthogonal beams 902 and configured to house a bed (e.g., a box spring or a mattress) therebetween. The bed base 900 may be coupled to the top components 330, for example, via the bed base mounting brackets 336. The bed base 900 may include a bed frame 910 coupled to at least one of the orthogonal beams 902 or the top components 330 via the frame mounting brackets 314.Slots 912 may be defined in the bed frame 910 within which corresponding portions of the orthogonal beams 902 may be disposed such that the bed may be disposed on the bed frame 910. As another example, FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the lift system 300 showing a platform 950 coupled to the lift system 300. The platform 950 may be disposed on the set of the top components 330. The platform 950 is configured to support a bed, such that a box spring is not used (e.g., in a low platform bed configuration, etc.). Side boards 952 may be disposed around the set of top components 330 and the platform 950 may be disposed on the side boards 952.[01391 It should be noted that the term “example” as used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, and / or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such term is not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).

[0140] The terms “coupled,” and the like as used herein mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another.

[0141] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the various example embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Additionally, it should be understood that features from one embodiment disclosed herein may be combined with features of other embodiments disclosed herein as one of ordinary skill in the art would understand. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may also be made in the design,operating conditions, and arrangement of the various example embodiments without departing from tiie scope of the present invention.

[6142] While this specification contains many specific implementation details^ these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any inventions or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular implementations of particular inventions. Certain features described in this specification in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A lift system, comprising: a plurality of bottom components positionable on a surface; a plurality of top components configured to support a structure; a lifting assembly coupled to at least one of the plurality of bottom components and at least one of the plurality of top components, the lifting assembly comprising: a plurality of lifting members, each of the plurality of lifting members having a lifting member first end coupled to one of the plurality of bottom components, and a lifting member second end opposite the lifting member first end coupled to one of the plurality of top components, and a locking member configured to be alternated between a locked configuration to lock the lifting assembly in each of a raised configuration, a plurality of intermediate configurations, and a lowered configuration of the lifting assembly, and an unlocked configuration to allow the lifting assembly to be moved between the raised configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration; and a release system configured to cause the locking member to alternate into the unlocked configuration so as to allow a user to move the lifting assembly between the lowered configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the raised configuration.

2. The lift system of claim 1, further comprising a lock assembly coupled to the lifting assembly, the lock assembly comprising: a locking system configured to be alternated between a retained configuration and a released configuration, wherein moving the locking system from the retained configuration into the released configuration causes the locking member to move into the unlocked configuration so as to allow a user to move the lifting assembly between the lowered configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the raised configuration.

3. The lift system of claim 2, wherein the lock assembly further comprises:a release key configured to interface with the locking system to alternate the locking system between the retained configuration and the released configuration such that unauthorized adjustment of the lift system in inhibited4. The lift system of claim 1, wherein: the locking member is an actuator configured to transition between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration; the lifting assembly is in the raised configuration when the actuator is in the extended configuration; and the lifting assembly is in the lowered configuration when the actuator is in the retracted configuration.

5. The lift system of claim 4, wherein: the actuator is a gas spring including a valve; the gas spring is in the locked configuration when the valve is in a closed configuration that inhibits fluid from flowing into or out of the gas spring, and the gas spring is in the unlocked configuration when the valve is in an open configuration that allows fluid to flow into or out of the gas spring.

6. The lift system of claim 4, further comprising at least one biasing member configured to bias the lifting assembly towards the raised configuration.

7. The lift system of claim 4, further comprising: an operator interface configured to generate input data based on an input received from an operator of the lift system; and a controller communicable with the operator interface and the actuator, the controller configured to: receive the input data from the operator interface; operate, based on the input data, the actuator from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration;operate, based on the input data, the actuator to move the lifting assembly from the lowered configuration into at least one of (i) one of the plurality of intermediate configurations or (it) the raised configuration, and operate the actuator from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

8. The lift system of claim 7, wherein tire controller receives the input data from the operator interface wirelessly.

9. Thc lift system of claim 1, wherein the locking member defines: a first ledge configured to engage a portion of the plurality of bottom components when the lifting assembly is in the lowered configuration and the locking member is in the locked configuration to lock the lifting assembly in the lowered configuration; a second ledge configured to engage the portion of the plurality of bottom components when the lifting assembly is in the raised configuration and the locking member is in the locked configuration to lock the lifting assembly in the lowered configuration; and a plurality of intermediate ledges each configured to engage the portion of the plurality of bottom components when the lifting assembly is in one of the plurality of intermediate configurations and the locking member is in the locked configuration to lock the lifting assembly in each of the plurality of intermediate configurations.

10. The lift system of Claim 9, further comprising a lock assembly coupled to the lifting assembly, the lock assembly comprising: a locking system configured to be alternated between a retained configuration and a released configuration, wherein moving the locking system from the retained configuration into the released configuration causes the locking member to move into the unlocked configuration so as to allow a user to move the lifting assembly between the lowered configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the raised configuration.I I. The lift system of claim I, wherein: the structure is a bed; andat least one of the plurality of top components is an expanding component such that a width of the at least one of file plurality of top components may be adjusted in order to accommodate different widths of the bed supported by the plurality of top components.

12. The lift system of claim 1, wherein: the structure is a bed; and at least one of the plurality of top components is an expanding component such that a length of the al least one of the plurality of top components may be adjusted in order to accommodate different lengths of the bed supported by the plurality of top components.

13. A lift system comprising: a bottom assembly positionable on a surface; a top assembly configured to support a structure; a lifting assembly coupled to the bottom assembly and the top assembly, the lifting assembly comprising: an actuator configured to be alternated between a locked configuration to lock the lifting assembly in each of a raised configuration, a plurality of intermediate configurations, and a lowered configuration of the lifting assembly, and an unlocked configuration to allow the lifting assembly to be moved between the raised configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration; and a release system configured to cause the actuator to alternate into the unlocked configuration so as to allow a user to move the lifting assembly between the lowered configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the raised configuration.

14. The lift system of claim 13, further comprising a lock assembly coupled to the lifting assembly, the lock assembly comprising: a locking system configured to be alternated between a retained configuration and a released configuration, wherein moving the locking system from the retained configuration into the released configuration causes the actuator to move into the unlocked configuration so as toallow a user to move the lifting assembly between the lowered configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the raised configuration.

15. The lift system of claim 13, wherein: the actuator is a gas spring including a valve; the gas spring is in the locked configuration when the valve is in a closed configuration that inhibits fluid from flowing into or out of the gas spring; and the gas spring is in the unlocked configuration when the valve is in an open configuration that allows fluid to flow into or out of the gas spring.

16. The lift system of claim 13, further comprising at least one biasing member configured to bias the lifting assembly towards the raised configuration.

17. The lift system of claim 13, further comprising: an operator interface configured to generate input data based on an input received from an operator of the lift system; and a controller communicable with the operator interface and the actuator, the controller configured to: receive the input data from the operator interface; operate, based on the input data, the actuator from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration; operate, based on the input data, the actuator to move the lifting assembly from the lowered configuration into at least one of (i) one of the plurality of intermediate configurations or (ii) the raised configuration; and operate the actuator from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

18. The lift system of claim 17, wherein the controller receives the input data from the operator interface wirelessly.

19. A lift system comprising:a plurality of bottom components positfonable on a surface; a plurality of top components configured to support a structure; and a lifting assembly coupled to at least one of the plurality of bottom components and at least one of the plurality of top components, the lifting assembly comprising: a plurality of lifting members, each of the plurality of lifting members having a lifting member first end coupled to one of the plurality of bottom components, and a lifting member second end opposite the lifting member first end coupled to one of the plurality of top components, and an actuator configured to be alternated between a locked configuration to lock the lifting assembly in each of a raised configuration, a plurality of intermediate configurations, and a lowered configuration of the lifting assembly, and an unlocked configuration to allow the lifting assembly to be moved between the raised configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the lowered configuration.

20. The lift system of claim 19, further comprising: a release system configured to cause the actuator to alternate into the unlocked configuration so as to allow a user to move the lifting assembly between the lowered configuration, the plurality of intermediate configurations, and the raised configuration.

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