Adjustable Bed Central Controller for Multi-Foundation Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable bed systems with multiple foundations supporting a single mattress face challenges in synchronizing the operation of headboard and footboard drive mechanisms, leading to inconsistent adjustments across the bed.
Innovation Solution
A configurable device, such as a switch on the central controller, allows users to select between independent and coordinated control of the drive mechanisms for the adjustable foundations, enabling synchronization or independent operation based on different bed configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple foundations are used to support a single mattress, then the bed can be adjusted to different positions and firmness levels, but the drive mechanisms of the foundations may not operate synchronously leading to inconsistent adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The control system monitors the position and operation status of each drive mechanism and adjusts their operation in real-time to maintain synchronous movement. Sensors detect the actual positions of the foundations and feed this information back to the controller, which then coordinates the drive mechanisms to operate together consistently.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed to handle multiple operating modes (synchronized and independent) within a single system architecture. The same control unit can switch between coordinating both foundations to move together or allowing them to operate separately, providing universal functionality for different bed configurations.
2Ease of operation
If a single remote control is used to control both firmness and position, then the user interface is simplified, but the control logic becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control functions for firmness adjustment (pump control) and position adjustment (drive mechanism control) are merged into a single remote control device. The remote communicates with a central controller that manages both functions, allowing the user to operate the entire bed system from one interface.
Solution Approach 2:
A central controller acts as an intermediary between the single remote control and the multiple bed functions. The remote sends commands to the central controller, which then translates and distributes appropriate signals to the pump, drive mechanisms, and other components, simplifying the user interface while managing the underlying complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
In one example, this disclosure describes an adjustable bed system (300) that includes first and second adjustable foundations (307), at least one first motor (812A) to adjust the first adjustable foundation (307), at least one second motor (812B) to adjust the second adjustable foundation (307), a configurable device (802) having a first state (706) and a second state (708), and a central controller (302) in communication with the device (802), the controller (302) configured to receive an input representing one of the first state (706) and the second state (708), the controller (302) including a processor (804) configured to control the at least one first motor (812A) and the at least one second motor (812B) based on the received input.