Adjustable Bed Bolster Structure for Pinch-Safe Articulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Articulating beds for home use face challenges in providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance while preventing collision and pinch hazards associated with the exposed frame elements during articulation.
Innovation Solution
A bed frame with a rigid structural frame and a padded bolster incorporating a resilient foam bumper, which extends to cover the articulating structure, providing collision protection and preventing pinch injuries by deforming upon contact with intruding appendages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the bed frame is extended to cover the articulating structure in the unarticulated position for aesthetic purposes, then the appearance is improved, but collision and pinch hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
A resilient foam bumper is attached to the bed frame before the articulating structure is moved, positioned to cushion any potential collision or pinch hazard before it occurs. The bumper deforms upon contact with intruding appendages, absorbing impact energy and preventing injury.
Solution Approach 2:
The bed frame incorporates a resilient foam material that changes its physical state from rigid to deformable upon contact. This parameter change allows the frame to maintain its extended aesthetic appearance while dynamically adapting to prevent harm by deforming under applied force.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the frame is shortened to prevent collision hazards during articulation, then safety is improved, but the aesthetic appearance and structural support are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of shortening the frame, a resilient foam bumper is positioned at the potential hazard zone in advance. This cushioning element remains inactive during normal operation, preserving the full aesthetic appearance, but activates when needed to prevent collision or pinch injuries.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient foam bumper acts as an intermediary element between the bed frame and any intruding appendage. It mediates the interaction by providing a compliant surface that deforms under contact, preventing direct collision with the rigid frame while maintaining the frame's full extended length for aesthetic purposes.
3Strength
If a rigid frame is used for structural support, then strength is improved, but pinch hazards increase during articulation
Solution Approach 1:
A resilient foam bumper is attached to the rigid frame at locations where pinch hazards may occur during articulation. The bumper provides beforehand cushioning that deforms upon contact with intruding appendages, preventing pinching while the rigid frame maintains its structural support function.
Solution Approach 2:
The bed frame system combines rigid structural materials with resilient foam materials. The rigid frame provides necessary structural support, while the resilient foam bumper attached to it provides pinch protection, creating a composite system that achieves both strength and safety.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances safety by preventing collision and pinch injuries while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing appearance, ensuring stability and comfort during various bed positions.
Implementation Method 1
The bumper is resilient to deform upon contact with an intruding appendage inserted between the bolster and articulating frame
Data Source
AI summary
A bed frame with a support structure has a rigid structural frame for carrying an articulating structure for an adjustable bed. The support structure extends substantially to the extents of the articulating structure in an unarticulated position and has a padded bolster. The bolster incorporates a mounting support attached to the structural frame and a resilient foam bumper received on the mounting support with a fabric covering surrounding the bumper and fastened to the mounting support. The articulating structure includes rigid planar supports having edges with a surrounding resilient foam layer having a fabric covering secured to the planar support. The bumper and foam layer are resilient to deform upon contact with an intruding appendage inserted between them. For an exemplary embodiment, an electrical outlet is mounted in a housing which penetrates the support frame, mounting support and bumper.