Modular Adjustable Bed Control for Multi-Device User Independence

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing adjustable beds lack the ability to control additional devices and provide independent functionality, limiting user convenience and independence, especially for individuals with medical needs who require specific positions for comfort and recovery.

Innovation Solution

The development of an adjustable bed system that includes an air inflatable mattress with flex regions, a programmable logic controller, remote memory storage, and various remote control options such as cell phone, Bluetooth, and ultra-wide band controls, allowing users to control bed positions and additional devices like audio equipment, lamps, and air purification systems from the bed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If basic adjustable bed functions are provided, then bed section positioning is achieved, but user independence and control of additional devices is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller is designed to perform multiple functions: controlling bed section actuators, managing air mattress inflation/deflation, storing user preferences in memory, and interfacing with various remote control devices (wireless remote, Bluetooth, cell phone). This multi-functional approach allows a single device to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate systems, thereby improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The controller acts as an intermediary between the user and multiple system components (actuators, air pump, memory storage) as well as between the bed system and external remote control devices. By centralizing control functions in this intermediary device, the system achieves enhanced adaptability while managing complexity through a unified control architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If users require specific positions for medical needs, then comfort and recovery are improved, but user mobility and independence are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveposition accuracyVSAvoiduser independence

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system includes memory functionality that stores pre-programmed bed positions and user preferences. This allows users to recall saved positions with a single button press, eliminating the need to manually adjust multiple controls. The preliminary action of storing optimal positions in advance directly supports users with limited mobility by providing quick, accurate positioning without requiring complex manual operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The bed system enables users to independently control their own positioning and comfort settings through the controller and various remote interfaces. Users can adjust bed sections, air mattress pressure, and recall saved positions without assistance, thereby maintaining independence despite medical limitations that require specific positions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If multiple actuators are used for each adjustable section, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveposition controlVSAvoidactuator configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system allows dynamic configuration of actuators, where the number and placement of actuators can be adjusted based on specific user needs and bed sections. The controller is designed to work with variable actuator configurations, enabling precise control when multiple actuators are used, while also supporting simpler configurations when fewer actuators are present, thus managing complexity through flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Stability of the object's composition

If wall hugging feature is implemented, then consistent distance maintenance is achieved, but mechanical complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedistance consistencyVSAvoidmechanical system

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wall hugging feature is integrated into the existing actuator and control systems rather than requiring a separate mechanical mechanism. The controller coordinates actuator movement to achieve the wall hugging effect, combining multiple functions (positioning and wall distance maintenance) into a unified control approach, thereby reducing overall mechanical complexity while maintaining distance consistency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8046116B2Controlling an adjustable bed and a second system with a modular controller

Publication Date: 2011.10.25 RAWLS MEEHAN MARTIN B

AI summary

An adjustable bed is associated with a second system and both the bed and the second system are controlled by a modular control system. The modular controller further facilitates using a global command input to control both the bed and the second system. In an embodiment the modular control system includes a touchscreen for accepting user input to control the bed and the second system.