Modular adjustable bed system facilitating assembly in a manual, partially-electric, or fully-electric configuration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable bed systems lack flexibility in configuration, requiring complex assembly or specialized manufacturing for different settings, and often necessitate tools for actuator assembly and disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A modular adjustable bed system that allows for manual, partially-electric, or fully-electric configuration, featuring a fixed frame assembly, movable sections, linkage assemblies, and actuators that can be easily swapped between different types, enabling customization without complex assembly or specialized tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable bed systems are designed for specific configurations (manual, partially-electric, or fully-electric), then the system can be optimized for that particular use, but the manufacturing complexity increases and requires specialized production lines for each configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal linkage assemblies that can accommodate multiple actuator types (manual, partially-electric, or fully-electric) through standardized mounting interfaces. The linkage assemblies are designed with universal connection points that accept different actuator configurations, allowing a single base unit to serve multiple functions across different bed types without requiring specialized manufacturing for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable bed system is divided into modular segments: a fixed frame assembly, a movable frame assembly with separable linkage assemblies, and interchangeable actuators. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standardized processes, then assembled into different configurations as needed, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Stability of the object's composition
If actuators are made permanently fixed in the bed frame, then structural stability is improved, but assembly and disassembly require complex procedures and specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage assemblies are pre-configured with standardized mounting features and connection interfaces that align with corresponding features on the actuators and frame. This preliminary preparation of connection points allows for quick attachment and detachment without requiring complex assembly procedures or specialized tools, while maintaining structural stability when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary connection components (such as standardized mounting brackets, alignment pins, and quick-release mechanisms) that facilitate easy assembly and disassembly of actuators. These intermediaries serve as mediators between the fixed frame structure and the interchangeable actuators, enabling stable connections that can be easily established and removed without specialized tools.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different actuator types are integrated into the bed frame, then customization for specific purposes is enabled, but the device requires multiple specialized components increasing inventory complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage assemblies are designed as universal components that can interface with multiple actuator types through standardized mounting interfaces. This universality allows the same linkage assembly to work with manual, partially-electric, or fully-electric actuators, enabling customization of actuator types without requiring different linkage assemblies for each configuration, thus reducing component variety.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration by enabling the replacement of actuators based on specific needs. The standardized interfaces permit actuators to be swapped between different bed units or within the same unit, allowing the system to adapt to different purposes without maintaining large inventories of specialized components for each configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A bed system includes a fixed frame, a movable frame, and first and second end boards disposed at the head and foot ends of the fixed frame, respectively. The system may be assembled and/or configured such that: a first electric or manual actuator is coupled between the fixed frame assembly and a first linkage assembly of the movable frame assembly for powered or manual movement of a first movable section of the movable frame assembly; a second electric or manual actuator is coupled between the fixed frame assembly and a second linkage assembly for powered or manual movement of a second movable section of the movable frame assembly; and/or a third electric or manual actuator is coupled between the first and second end boards for powered or manual height adjustment of the head and foot ends of the fixed frame assembly.