Foldable Medical Bed Base Assembly Method
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Medical beds are cumbersome and heavy due to their varied functionalities and accessories, making them difficult to transport and assemble, often requiring two technicians and special assembly means.
Innovation Solution
A method for assembling a medical bed that breaks down the bed base into independent portions, allowing a single operator to create points of rotation and tilt the portions into a horizontal position for easy assembly, without the need for additional tools or assistance, and incorporates a foldable base system for reduced bulk during transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the bed is transported in a folded position to reduce size, then the bulk is reduced for easier transport, but the assembly becomes tedious and requires two technicians
Solution Approach 1:
The bed is divided into two independent parts (head part and foot part) that can be folded separately for transport. Each part has its own frame structure that can be independently manipulated, allowing one technician to handle each part separately during assembly without requiring complex coordination between multiple people.
Solution Approach 2:
The bed frame incorporates articulated joints that allow dynamic transformation between folded and unfolded states. The head part and foot part can be tilted and rotated relative to each other through controlled movement at the connection points, enabling a single technician to assemble the bed by sequentially positioning each part rather than requiring two technicians to simultaneously hold and align heavy components.
2Ease of operation
If the bed base is made adjustable in height with motors and columns, then patient comfort is improved, but the bed becomes bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The height adjustment system is segmented into distributed motors positioned at strategic locations under the bed base, rather than using a single heavy central mechanism. This allows the adjustment function to be achieved with lighter, dispersed components that reduce overall bed weight while maintaining the ability to adjust height for patient comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional heavy mechanical height adjustment systems using large telescopic columns and manual cranks are replaced with electric motors that can achieve the same height adjustment function with significantly reduced mechanical complexity and weight, making the bed easier to transport while maintaining patient comfort features.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple accessories are added to the bed for patient needs, then functionality is improved, but the bed becomes difficult to transport
Solution Approach 1:
Accessories such as side tables, trays, and other equipment are designed to nest within or attach to the bed frame structure when not in use. During transport, these accessories can be collapsed or stowed within the hollow spaces of the articulated frame, reducing the overall volume while maintaining full functionality when the bed is deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The bed frame and accessories incorporate collapsible and articulating elements that allow the structure to dynamically change between a compact transport configuration and a fully extended functional configuration. This enables the bed to accommodate various accessories for different patient needs while maintaining a compact size during transport through controlled movement of frame segments.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The method involves creating a rotating point (45) between a spring-mattress and base (2), where the spring-mattress is in a vertical position with respect to the base. The spring-mattress is tilted around the point of rotation. Another rotating point (52) is created between the spring-mattress and the base. The former rotating point between the spring-mattress and the base is suppressed by tilting the spring-mattress around the latter rotating point, where the spring-mattress is brought to a horizontal position with respect to the base. An independent claim is also included for a bed including a base.