Adjustable Bed Memory Position Control for Multi-Device Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing adjustable beds lack the ability to control additional devices and provide independent functionality, limiting user convenience and independence, especially for individuals with medical needs who require specific positions for comfort and recovery.

Innovation Solution

The adjustable bed system incorporates an air inflatable mattress with flex regions, a programmable logic controller, remote memory storage, and various remote control options such as cell phone, Bluetooth, and ultra-wide band controls to allow users to control bed positions and other devices like audio equipment, lamps, and air purification systems from the bed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional adjustable beds are used to provide basic position adjustment, then bed section positioning is achieved, but user independence and control of additional devices is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice control capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustable bed system is enhanced with multi-functionality by integrating control capabilities for multiple devices beyond bed positioning. The system can control audio equipment, lamps, air purification systems, and other connected devices through wireless communication protocols (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, cellular), allowing a single system to perform both bed adjustment and environmental device control functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

A control system acts as an intermediary between the user and multiple devices. The controller receives user inputs and translates them into appropriate commands for different devices using various communication protocols, mediating between the user's intent and the specific device responses without requiring direct connection to each device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If users with limited mobility use traditional adjustable beds, then bed position adjustment is possible, but user independence is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser independenceVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by allowing users to independently control both bed positioning and connected devices without assistance. Users can adjust bed sections, control lighting, play audio, and manage environmental settings directly from the bed through wireless communication, making the system serve itself and the user autonomously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The control system provides universal access to multiple functions through a single interface, enabling users to control diverse devices (bed sections, lights, audio, air purification) from one unified system, simplifying operation for users with limited mobility while expanding capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple actuators are used to position bed sections, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidactuator system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bed positioning system is segmented into multiple independent actuators, each responsible for specific bed sections. This segmentation allows precise control of individual sections (head, foot, knee) while maintaining modular architecture that manages complexity through division of functions across separate actuator units

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9161633B2System of memory positions for an adjustable bed
Publication Date: 2015.10.20 RAWLS MEEHAN MARTIN B
  • US9161633B2 patent drawing
  • US9161633B2 patent drawing
  • US9161633B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This disclosure concerns a memory position user interface for accessing a predetermined range of discrete acceptable positions that are stored in the memory of an adjustable bed controller.