Compact Actuation System for Adjustable Bed Profile
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Solution Overview
Problem
Articulating beds face challenges in maintaining rigidity and compactness due to the size and weight of their mechanical structures, which makes it difficult to conceal the actuation system within a reduced thickness profile, and they often require complex configurations for different bed sizes.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a compact profile actuation system with a support frame and a carriage-mounted elevating frame that rotates within the side frame's depth, using rollers to articulate the upper body support, allowing for a minimized vertical profile and easy reconfiguration for various bed sizes by replacing support panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional actuators are used for articulating bed, then the bed can achieve required positioning functions, but the actuation system becomes large and cannot be concealed within reduced thickness profile
Solution Approach 1:
The elevating frame is nested within the side frame members, and the rollers are nested within the elevating frame structure. This nesting arrangement allows the actuation system components to be contained within the reduced thickness profile of the side support elements, eliminating the need for external actuators and achieving a compact concealed design.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional horizontal actuator placement to a vertical dimension solution by rotating the elevating frame about a vertical axle. This dimensional change allows the actuation mechanism to operate within the depth profile of the side frame members rather than requiring horizontal space, enabling concealment within the reduced thickness profile.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex actuation mechanisms are used to achieve articulation, then positioning functionality is improved, but the structural rigidity and compactness of the bed is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bed structure is segmented into distinct functional components: the side frame members providing structural support, the elevating frame providing articulation, and the rollers providing motion transfer. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall structural rigidity through the integrated frame design.
Solution Approach 2:
The rollers serve as intermediaries between the elevating frame and the upper body support, transferring motion and force efficiently. This intermediary mechanism enables smooth articulation while maintaining structural integrity, as the rollers distribute loads across the frame structure rather than creating stress concentration points.
3Length of stationary object
If traditional actuation systems are used, then bed positioning is achieved, but the profile thickness increases and modern bedding design requirements are not met
Solution Approach 1:
The elevating frame and its components are nested within the depth profile of the side frame members, ensuring that the overall profile thickness remains reduced. This nesting arrangement allows the actuation system to function while maintaining the sleek, modern profile required by contemporary bedding design.
4Adaptability or versatility
If fixed configuration bed frames are used, then structural stability is maintained, but adaptability to different bed sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The side frame members and carriage assembly serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, enable articulation through the elevating frame, and allow reconfiguration for different bed sizes. This multi-functionality is achieved through the universal design of the carriage and elevating frame mechanisms, which can accommodate various support panel widths without requiring fundamental changes to the underlying chassis structure.
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
This solution enables a compact, rigid, and versatile articulating bed system that maintains a reduced profile, hiding actuation elements and allowing for easy size adjustments by changing only the support panels, while providing smooth articulation and safety features.
Implementation Method 1
The carriage is mounted with wheels engaging the side frame members to translate from a first position through a range progressing toward the head end
Implementation Method 2
Translation of the carriage from the first position to the fully translated position rotates the first elevating frame about the axle to articulate the upper body support
Data Source
AI summary
An articulating bed incorporates a support frame with a head end. Side frame members support and carry a carriage having a seat support. The carriage is mounted with wheels engaging the side frame members to translate from a first position through a range progressing toward the head end to a fully translated position. A first elevating frame rotates about an axle attached to the side frame members with the first elevating frame concealed within a depth profile of the side frame members in an unrotated position. First rollers carried by the carriage engage lower profile surfaces of the elevating frame and a second roller carried by the first elevating frame engages a lower surface of an upper body support pivotally attached to the seat support. Translation of the carriage from the first position to the fully translated position rotates the first elevating frame about the axle to articulate the upper body support.