Bedframe lifting device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bed lifting devices lack integration of a communication unit for remote control and fail to provide a seamless transfer mechanism for physically disabled users from a wheelchair to a bed, especially in terms of height adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A bedframe lifting device with an integrated lifting unit and communication unit that allows remote control via a personal electronic device, utilizing a gear mechanism for height adjustment and transfer assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a lifting unit is integrated into the bedframe to enable height adjustment, then user independence and comfort are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting unit is integrated directly into the bedframe structure, merging the lifting mechanism with the support structure. This combination allows height adjustment functionality to be built-in rather than added as a separate external device, improving ease of operation while managing device complexity through structural integration
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting unit serves multiple functions: it adjusts bed height for wheelchair transfers, raises the bed to preferred sleeping heights, and provides programmable height settings. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering comprehensive operational benefits
2Adaptability or versatility
If a communication unit is integrated into the lifting unit for remote control, then user independence is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication unit replaces manual mechanical control with wireless electronic communication. Users can control the lifting unit remotely through a personal electronic device via wireless signals, eliminating the need for physical switches or buttons on the bedframe, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity through electronic integration
Solution Approach 2:
A communication unit acts as an intermediary between the user's personal electronic device and the lifting unit motor. This mediator translates wireless commands into mechanical lifting actions, enabling remote control functionality and enhancing user independence
3Force
If the lifting unit uses a worm gear mechanism driven by an electric motor, then lifting capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The worm gear mechanism provides high mechanical advantage, transforming small motor forces into large lifting forces. This parameter change in force multiplication capability enables the system to lift heavy bedframes and mattresses using a relatively small electric motor, improving lifting capability while keeping the drive mechanism compact
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting unit is divided into separate functional components: an electric motor for power generation, a worm gear mechanism for force multiplication and motion conversion, and a lifting structure for actual bed elevation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while managing overall device complexity
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 physically disabled users to transfer from a wheelchair to a bed and adjust bed height remotely, enhancing user independence and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
the lifting unit comprises a scissor lift and in other cases the lifting unit comprises a worm gear driven by an electric motor
Data Source
AI summary
A bedframe lifting device for enabling a physically disabled user to transfer from a wheelchair to a bed includes a bedframe and a lifting unit which is movably attached to the bedframe having the lifting unit resting upon a support surface. The lifting unit urges the bedframe downwardly toward the support surface to enable a user who employs a wheelchair to transfer from the wheelchair to a mattress that is positioned on the bedframe. The lifting unit urges the bedframe upwardly from the support surface to facilitate the user to sleep at a preferred height on the mattress. A communication unit is integrated into the lifting unit and the communication unit is in remote communication with a personal electronic to facilitate the user to remotely lift or lower the bedframe.