Adjustable bed base with incline feature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional adjustable bed bases lack the ability to incline their articulated deck when it is flat, which is a limitation for individuals with health issues such as circulation problems or gastroesophageal reflux disease, as they require a flat platform with the head end above the foot end.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable bed base with a subframe that can pivot and a system of ramps and linear actuators, allowing the deck to be inclined when flat, using a primary linear actuator to pivot the subframe and secondary actuators to adjust the deck boards, enabling the deck to be tilted to various positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional adjustable bed bases use a stationary frame with articulated deck members, then the deck can be adjusted for sitting or leg elevation, but the deck cannot be inclined when flat which is required for certain health conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The bed base is divided into a stationary frame and a separate movable subframe that carries the articulated deck. This segmentation allows the subframe to be independently tilted relative to the stationary frame, enabling the flat platform inclination capability without complicating the entire frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A movable subframe is introduced as an intermediary component between the stationary frame and the articulated deck. The subframe acts as a mediator that can be tilted using a wheel-ramp mechanism, thereby providing the inclined flat platform function while keeping the stationary frame relatively simple.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the articulated deck is designed with multiple hinged deck members, then positioning flexibility is improved for reading or leg elevation, but the ability to maintain a flat inclined position is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The operation is segmented into two independent functions: tilting the subframe (controlling overall platform inclination) and adjusting the articulated deck members (controlling local positioning). This segmentation allows users to first establish the desired incline angle, then make fine adjustments to deck member positions without interfering with each other.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable subframe serves as an intermediary that decouples the inclination function from the articulated deck adjustment function. By providing a separate tilting mechanism at the subframe level, the system enables flat inclined positioning while maintaining the ease of operation of the articulated deck members.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a movable subframe with wheel-ramp mechanism is added to enable tilting, then inclined flat platform is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel-ramp mechanism is designed to be self-contained and self-operating. The wheel, when rotated, directly engages with the ramp to produce the tilting motion of the subframe. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional motors, actuators, or complex control systems, thereby achieving incline functionality with minimal added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces potential complex motorized tilting systems with a simpler mechanical wheel-ramp mechanism. By using manual or simple mechanical input to rotate the wheel, the subframe tilts through the ramp's geometric conversion, substituting a potentially complex electromechanical system with a cleaner mechanical solution.
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
Enables the bed base to provide a customizable incline, accommodating different health needs by allowing the deck to be tilted when flat, enhancing comfort and support for users with specific health conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a primary linear actuator for moving the ramp assembly from front to back. The primary linear actuator functions to raise and lower a front portion of the subframe, pivoting the subframe about the pivot axis
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable bed base has a subframe assembly including a subframe which may be inclined relative to a stationary frame by a primary linear actuator. An articulating deck is attached to the subframe. Secondary linear actuators articulate the deck. The subframe assembly is pivotally secured to a portion of the stationary frame. The subframe may be inclined by extending the primary linear actuator which moves ramps, causing wheels attached to the subframe to ride upwardly along the ramps, thereby raising the head end of the subframe relative to the stationary frame.