Bed Step Platform With Handrails for Turning Before Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bed step apparatuses, such as those developed by Baiera, do not allow users to stand in a normal stance and maneuver or turn before entering or exiting a bed, often having narrow treads that make it difficult for certain users, especially those with limited mobility, to access beds safely and comfortably.
Innovation Solution
A bed step apparatus with spaced first and second hand rail type supports defining parallel planes, providing a platform that allows users to stand and turn, featuring adjustable heights and anchor assemblies for secure attachment, enabling a two-vector pathway for safe and easy access to beds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a narrow tread step apparatus is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates for users with limited mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a narrow one-dimensional step tread to a broad two-dimensional platform. This dimensional expansion allows users with limited mobility to stand comfortably, shift weight, and maneuver before entering the bed, directly addressing the accessibility problem while maintaining structural simplicity through the use of basic rectangular tubing and flat bar components.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform is segmented into distinct functional zones: hand rail supports for stability, platform surface for standing and maneuvering, and anchor assemblies for secure attachment. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to solve the accessibility challenge without increasing overall device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If a direct perpendicular pathway to the bedside is provided, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates for users needing to maneuver or turn
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a lateral dimension to the traditional perpendicular approach. Users can approach the platform from the side, move forward, then turn to face the bed before entering. This creates multiple movement vectors (side-approach, forward-motion, turning) rather than forcing a single direct perpendicular path, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform design enables dynamic movement patterns rather than static direct access. Users can adjust their approach angle, pause to regroup, shift weight distribution, and execute turning movements on the stable platform surface. This dynamic flexibility accommodates varying user needs and mobility levels while preserving straightforward access to the bed.
Data Source
AI summary
A step apparatus for beds and the like provides an elevated support surface. The step apparatus includes a front side, a back side, and opposed platform access sides. The front side is positioned next to a user selected bedside. A platform extends intermediate the front side, the back side, and the platform access sides. A platform support mechanism supports the platform in spaced relation relative to a reference surface and a target surface. At least one of the platform access sides provides access to the platform in a first direction so as to enable the user to stand thereupon in a user stance facing the first direction. The front side provides access to the target surface in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The platform enables the user to turn the user stance to face the second direction from the first direction.