Push Chain Bed Lift Assembly for Compact Vertical Reach
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lift systems in healthcare beds, particularly those using telescoping components, are prone to binding issues, limiting design flexibility and requiring compactness while ensuring adequate vertical reach, which is not adequately addressed by non-telescoping alternatives.
Innovation Solution
A height adjustable bed system employing a push chain assembly with a lead screw actuation system, where rotary motion of the lead screw changes the elevation of the elevatable frame relative to the base frame through a push chain mechanism, allowing for compact and versatile height adjustments without telescoping components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If telescoping components are used in the lift system, then the vertical reach is sufficient to allow high positioning of the frame, but the system becomes susceptible to binding and requires compact design space
Solution Approach 1:
The lift system is divided into multiple push chain assemblies, each responsible for a specific vertical range. The chains work in sequence rather than requiring a single telescoping component to cover the entire range, eliminating binding issues while maintaining sufficient vertical reach.
Solution Approach 2:
Push chain assemblies serve as intermediary mechanisms between the lead screw actuator and the elevatable frame. These chains transmit force through a series of linked segments that can extend and retract smoothly without the binding problems associated with telescoping components.
2Volume of moving object
If the lift system components are made compact to allow low positioning of the frame, then space is saved for other under-bed components, but the vertical reach may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The push chain assemblies are arranged to extend vertically when needed for lifting, but can be stowed in a compact horizontal or angled configuration when not in use. This allows the system to achieve full vertical reach during operation while maintaining a compact profile that preserves under-bed space.
Solution Approach 2:
The lift system transitions dynamically between compact and extended states. The push chains can be repositioned along their guide paths to accommodate different bed heights, allowing the system to be compact at low elevations and achieve full vertical reach when lifting is required.
3Reliability
If non-telescoping alternatives are used to avoid binding issues, then reliability is improved, but the design flexibility and vertical reach are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The push chain assembly is designed as a universal mechanism that can be configured for different vertical reach requirements and bed designs. The same basic chain and actuator architecture can be adapted to various applications by adjusting chain length, number of chains, and actuator positioning, providing both reliability and design flexibility.
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
The push chain assembly provides a compact and reliable height adjustment system that prevents binding issues, offering a wider range of design choices while ensuring sufficient vertical reach for caregiver access, thus enhancing the usability and flexibility of healthcare beds.
Implementation Method 1
a push chain having an actuator end driven by a lead screw and a distal end connected to the other of the frames. Rotary motion of the lead screw changes elevation of the elevating frame relative to the base frame.
Data Source
AI summary
A bed includes a base frame 14 having a head end and a foot end, an elevatable frame 16 also having a head end and a foot end, a lift assembly 76 or 78 comprising an actuation system connected to one of the frames, a push chain 106 having an actuator end 124 driven by a lead screw 86 and a distal end 126 connected to the other of the frames. Rotary motion of the lead screw changes elevation of the elevating frame relative to the base frame.