Abstrict An adjustable bed includes a universal, or interchangeable, bed
end that can be used at either end of the bed and can be connected
with an existing motor drive assembly. The bed end may include a
gear box having first and second input shafts that are selectively
covered by a movable cover. The bed end may include a frame having
drain openings for draining water from the bed end when the bed
end is washed. The bed end may also include an end cap that is fastened
to the frame in a unique manner, and that helps to maintain a panel
of the bed end cover in a curved or bowed configuration.
Claims 36. An adjustable bed for use on a floor, said bed comprising:
a bed spring having a head end portion and a foot end portion; a
first bed end including a height adjustment mechanism that is operable
to support said head end portion of said bed spring at a plurality
of different heights above a floor, said height adjustment mechanism
of said first bed end including a lead screw and a slip nut threadedly
engaged with the lead screw; a second bed end replaceable by said
first bed end and including a height adjustment mechanism that is
operable to support said foot end portion of said bed spring at
a plurality of different heights above a floor, said height adjustment
mechanism of said second bed end including a lead screw and a slip
nut threadedly engaged with the lead screw; and an electric motor
mounted on said bed spring at a location between said first bed
end and said second bed end and connected with said height adjustment
mechanisms of said first and second bed ends.
37. A bed as set forth in claim 36 further including: a first drive
shaft portion connected between said motor and said first bed end;
and a second drive shaft portion connected between said motor and
said second bed end; said first and second drive shaft portions
being rotatable together by said electric motor in a first direction
of rotation to raise said head end portion and said foot end portion
of said bed spring and in a second direction of rotation opposite
said first direction of rotation to lower said head end portion
and said foot end portion of said bed spring.
38. A bed as set forth in claim 36 wherein said height adjustment
mechanism of said first bed end comprises a gearbox having two different
input conditions for receiving rotational force in the first direction
of rotation from one of said first and second drive shaft portions
and for in response either raising or lowering said head end portion
of said bed spring, said gearbox having first and second input shafts
for selectively receiving the rotational force and for in response
either raising or lowering said head end portion of said bed spring.
39. A bed as set forth in claim 38 wherein said gearbox of said
first bed end includes an output gear for driving said lead screw
of said height adjustment mechanism, said output gear being in meshing
engagement with one of said first and second gears for transmitting
rotational force to said lead screw in a first direction when said
rotational force is applied to said first input shaft and in a second
direction when said rotational force is applied to said second input
shaft.
40. A bed as set forth in claim 36 wherein said first bed end includes
at least one leg engageable with the floor for supporting said first
bed end on the floor, and said slip nut is rigidly coupled with
said at least one leg for transmitting force from said lead screw
through said slip nut to said at least one leg.
41. A bed as set forth in claim 36 wherein said first bed end includes
at least one leg engageable with the floor for supporting said first
bed end on the floor, and said slip nut is flexibly coupled with
said at least one leg for transmitting force from said lead screw
through said slip nut to said at least one leg.
42. A bed as set forth in claim 41 wherein said height adjustment
mechanism includes a cable and pulley system for adjusting the height
of said head end portion of said bed spring in response to rotation
of said lead screw.
43. A bed as set forth in claim 36 wherein said slip nut of said
first bed end is formed in two pieces each extending about 180 degrees
around said lead screw of said first bed end.
44. A bed as set forth in claim 36 further including a manual crank
for actuating said height adjustment mechanism of said first bed
end and of said second bed end, said manual crank being removably
attached to one of said first and second bed ends, said manual crank
including a securing mechanism for releasably securing said manual
crank to said first bed end.
45. A bed as set forth in claim 36 wherein said first bed end further
includes a hollow cover for enclosing and covering said height adjustment
mechanism, said cover including an interior major side panel and
an exterior major side panel each of which is made from a single
piece of a washable plastic material.
46. A bed end for an adjustable height bed having a driveshaft
that is rotatable in first and second opposite directions of rotation
about a first axis to raise and lower said bed, said bed end comprising:
a movable portion for supporting a portion of a bed spring; an output
shaft rotatable about a second axis transverse to said first axis;
and a gearbox connected with said output shaft for transmitting
rotational force from the driveshaft to the output shaft; wherein
said gearbox can be coupled with the driveshaft in a first condition
receiving rotational force from the driveshaft in a first direction
of rotation about said first axis and effecting rotation of said
output shaft about said second axis in a direction so as to raise
said movable portion of said bed end; wherein said gearbox can be
coupled with said driveshaft in a second condition receiving rotational
force from the driveshaft in said first direction of rotation about
said first axis and effecting rotation of said output shaft about
said second axis in a direction so as to lower said movable portion
of said bed end; wherein said gearbox includes first and second
input shafts, said first input shaft being coupled with the driveshaft
when said gearbox is in the first condition and said second input
shaft being coupled with the driveshaft when said gearbox is in
the first condition; and a lead screw rotatable by said output shaft
and a slip nut threadedly engaged with the lead screw operative
to raise or lower said movable portion of said bed end in response
to rotation of said output shaft.
47. A bed end as set forth in claim 46 wherein said lead screw
rotates in a first direction when said rotational force is applied
to said first input shaft and said lead screw rotates in a second
direction when said rotational force is applied to said second input
shaft.
48. A bed end as set forth in claim 46 including at least one leg
engageable with the floor for supporting said bed end on the floor,
said slip nut being rigidly coupled with said at least one leg for
transmitting force from said lead screw through said slip nut to
said at least one leg.
49. A bed end as set forth in claim 46 including at least one leg
engageable with the floor for supporting said first bed end on the
floor, said slip nut being flexibly coupled with said at least one
leg for transmitting force from said lead screw through said slip
nut to said at least one leg.
50. A bed end as set forth in claim 49 wherein said slip nut is
flexibly coupled with said at least one leg through a cable and
pulley system for adjusting the height of said movable portion of
said bed spring in response to rotation of said lead screw.
51. A bed end for a bed that includes a bed spring that is adjustable
vertically relative to a floor on which the bed is placed, said
bed end comprising: a movable portion for supporting the bed spring;
a fixed portion for supporting the movable portion of the bed end;
and a height adjustment mechanism operable to receive rotational
force and in response to raise or lower said movable portion of
said bed end relative to said fixed portion of said bed end; said
height adjustment mechanism being operable to receive rotational
force in a first direction of rotation about a first axis and in
response to raise said movable portion of said bed end relative
to said fixed portion of said bed end, said height adjustment mechanism
also being operable to receive rotational force in said first direction
of rotation about said first axis and in response to lower said
movable portion of said bed end relative to said fixed portion of
said bed end; wherein said height adjustment mechanism comprises
a gearbox for receiving rotational force and for in response rotating
a lead screw threadedly engaged with a slip nut and thereby raising
or lowering said movable portion of said bed end.
52. A bed end as set forth in claim 46 including at least one leg
engageable with the floor for supporting said bed end on the floor,
said slip nut being rigidly coupled with said at least one leg for
transmitting force from said lead screw through said slip nut to
said at least one leg.
53. A bed end as set forth in claim 46 including at least one leg
engageable with the floor for supporting said first bed end on the
floor, said slip nut being flexibly coupled with said at least one
leg for transmitting force from said lead screw through said slip
nut to said at least one leg.
54. A bed end as set forth in claim 49 wherein said slip nut is
flexibly coupled with said at least one leg through a cable and
pulley system for adjusting the height of said movable portion of
said bed spring in response to rotation of said lead screw.
Description RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation in part of U.S. application
Ser. No. 10/280927 filed Oct. 25 2002 titled ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT
BED.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to an adjustable bed. In particular,
the present invention relates to a bed having a bed spring or other
portion that is vertically adjustable, for example, for use in home
health care.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Adjustable beds are often used in home health care. Such
beds typically include a height adjustment mechanism that is operable
to raise or lower the bed spring. The height adjustment mechanism
may be manual or electric. A manual mechanism uses a hand crank
to operate a gearbox to raise and lower the bed spring. An electric
mechanism uses an electric motor that rotates a drive shaft or drive
tube. The drive shaft is connected with gearboxes that face inward
on the respective bed ends, that is, toward the opposite end.. When
the motor is actuated, rotational force is transmitted to the bed
ends to synchronously raise and lower movable portions of the bed
ends that support the bed spring. One such type of adjustable bed
end is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5134731 the entire disclosure of
which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0004] Since the rotational force acts in the same direction of
rotation at both ends of the bed, identical head and foot bed ends
are not used because their gearboxes would cause one bed end to
raise and the other bed end to lower. As a result, separate head
ends and foot ends are typically provided for an adjustable bed.
This results in the need to manufacture and store two different
kinds of bed ends, and can cause mistakes when delivering and setting
up a bed in a patient's home.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention relates to an adjustable bed and to
various features of the bed. In various embodiments, the bed includes
a universal, or interchangeable, bed end that can be used at either
end of the bed and can be connected with an existing motor drive
assembly. The bed end may include a gear box having first and second
input shafts that are selectively covered by a movable cover. The
bed end may include a frame having drain openings for draining water
from the bed end when the bed end is washed. The bed end may also
include an end cap that is fastened to the frame in a unique manner,
and that helps to maintain a panel of the bed end cover in a curved
or bowed configuration.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The foregoing and other features of the present invention
will become apparent to one skilled in the art to which the present
invention relates upon consideration the following description of
the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0007] FIG. 1 is a schematic elevational view of one embodiment
of an adjustable bed in accordance with the present invention;
[0008] FIG. 2 is a schematic elevational view of one embodiment
of a bed end that forms part of the bed of FIG. 1;
[0009] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of one embodiment of a slip nut
assembly that forms part of the bed end of FIG. 2;
[0010] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a slip
nut that forms part of the slip nut assembly of FIG. 3;
[0011] FIG. 5 is a sectional view of one embodiment of a gearbox
that forms part of the bed end of FIG. 2;
[0012] FIG. 6 is an elevational view of the gearbox of FIG. 5;
[0013] FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of the bed of FIG.
1;
[0014] FIG. 8 is a view of a prior art bed end;
[0015] FIG. 9 is an elevational view of one embodiment of a crank
that is usable with the bed end of FIG. 2;
[0016] FIG. 10 is a view similar to FIG. 5 showing the crank of
FIG. 9 attached to a gearbox;
[0017] FIG. 11 is a sectional view of an alternative gearbox embodiment
that can be part of the bed end of FIG. 2;
[0018] FIG. 12 is a sectional view of a portion of the gearbox
of FIG. 11;
[0019] FIG. 13 is a sectional view of another alternative gearbox
embodiment that can be part of the bed end of FIG. 2;
[0020] FIGS. 14-17 are views of alternative corner plates one embodiment
of that can be used with the bed end of FIG. 2;
[0021] FIG. 18 is an elevational view of one embodiment of a plastic
bed end cover in accordance with the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 19 is a cutaway sectional view of the bed end cover
of FIG. 18;
[0023] FIG. 20 is an exploded view of an alternative plastic bed
end cover embodiment in accordance with the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 21 is an exploded view of another alternative plastic
bed end cover embodiment in accordance with the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 22 is a front elevational view of a gearbox including
a movable cover in accordance with a feature of the invention, the
cover being shown in one closed position;
[0026] FIG. 23 is a view similar to FIG. 22 showing the cover in
a second closed position;
[0027] FIG. 24 is a schematic side elevational view of a portion
of the gearbox including the cover;
[0028] FIG. 25 is a top plan view of a portion of the gearbox and
cover;
[0029] FIG. 26 is an enlarged front elevational view of a portion
of the gearbox and cover;
[0030] FIG. 27 is a schematic elevational view of a frame that
forms part of the bed end and including two drain openings in the
frame;
[0031] FIG. 28 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of
the frame of FIG. 27 showing one of the drain openings;
[0032] FIG. 29 is a top plan view of a portion of the frame of
FIG. 27;
[0033] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a bed end including a removable
cover in accordance with the invention;
[0034] FIG. 31 is a sectional view through portions of the cover
including an end cap;
[0035] FIG. 32 is another sectional view of the end cap of FIG.
31;
[0036] FIG. 33 is an enlarged partial sectional view illustrating
one manner of attachment of the end cap to the frame;
[0037] FIG. 34 is a view similar to FIG. 33 illustrating another
manner of attachment of the end cap to the frame;
[0038] FIG. 35 is a sectional view illustrating engagement of the
end cap with a center panel of the cover; and
[0039] FIG. 36 is a fragmentary sectional view illustrating attachment
of the end cap to the frame.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0040] The present invention relates to adjustable beds. In particular,
the present invention relates to a bed having a bed spring or other
portion that is vertically adjustable, for example, for use in home
health care. As representative of the present invention, FIG. 1
illustrates one embodiment of a bed 10. The bed 10 is illustrated
as being placed on a floor 12.
[0041] The bed 10 includes a bed end 14 that is located at the
head end of the bed. The bed 10 also includes a bed end 14a that
is located at the foot end of the bed. The bed end 14 is referred
to herein as the "head end" of the bed 10. The bed end
14a is referred to herein as the "foot end" of the bed
10. The head end 14 of the bed 10 is identical to, and interchangeable
with, the foot end 14a of the bed, as is discussed in more detail
below.
[0042] The head end 14 of the bed 10 (FIG. 2) includes a fixed
portion 20 and a movable portion 22. The fixed portion 20 of the
head end 14 is that portion of the head end 14 that stays in position
on the floor 12 when the height of the bed 10 is adjusted. The movable
portion 22 of the head end 14 is that portion of the head end that
moves vertically relative to the floor 12 and relative to the fixed
portion 20 of the head end, when the height of the bed 10 is adjusted.
This movement effects vertical movement of the portions of the bed
on which the patient is located, as discussed below.
[0043] The fixed portion 20 of the head end 14 (FIG. 2) includes
first and second inner legs 24 and 26 that are interconnected by
a cross-beam 28. The inner legs 24 and 26 are identical to each
other in construction and so their constituent parts are numbered
identically.
[0044] Each one of the inner legs 24 and 26 has a square, tubular
cross-sectional configuration with an inner side wall 30 that faces
the opposite side of the bed end 14. Each one of the inner legs
24 and 26 has an upper end portion 32 and an opposite lower end
portion 34. The inner legs 24 and 26 extend generally perpendicular
to the floor 12 when the bed 10 is assembled as shown in the drawings.
[0045] The cross-beam 28 has a tubular, rectangular cross-sectional
configuration that extends perpendicular to the inner legs 24 and
26 and parallel to the floor 12. The cross-beam 28 has opposite
upper and lower side walls 48 and 50 and opposite inner and outer
side walls. The cross-beam 28 also has first and second end walls
48 and 50 that close the ends of the cross-beam and provide a mounting
structure for supporting the cross-beam.
[0046] The cross-beam 28 is connected between the upper end portions
32 of the inner legs 24 and 26 respectively. Specifically, the
first end wall 48 of the cross-beam 28 is fixedly secured to the
upper end portion 32 of the first leg 24 specifically, the inner
side wall 30 by fastener structure that, in the illustrated embodiment,
includes a plurality of bolts 52. In a similar manner, the second
end wall 50 of the cross-beam 28 is fixedly secured to the upper
end portion 32 of the second leg 26 specifically, the inner side
wall 30 by fastener structure that, in the illustrated embodiment,
includes a plurality of bolts 54. As a result, the cross-beam 28
and the first and second inner legs 24 and 26 are fixed to each
other as one unit that rests on the floor 12 and that does not move
vertically when the height of the bed 10 is adjusted as described
below. These three pieces together form the fixed portion 20 of
the head end 14. It should be understood that the cross-beam 28
could be configured differently, so long as it comprises structure
that rigidly joins the inner legs 24 and 26 for transmitting force
between the movable portions 22 of the bed end 14 and the fixed
portion 20 of the bed end.
[0047] The movable portion 22 of the head end 14 of the bed 10
includes structural and operational parts, as well as decorative/covering
parts. The decorative/covering parts are not shown in FIGS. 1-6
so that the structural and operational parts can be viewed. The
decorative/covering parts are described below.
[0048] The movable portion 22 of the head end 14 includes a frame
structure, or frame 60. The frame 60 includes an upper cross bar
62 a lower cross bar 64 and first and second outer legs 66 and
68. The upper cross bar 62 has a tubular cross-sectional configuration
that extends perpendicular to the outer legs 66 and 68 and parallel
to the floor 12. The upper cross bar 62 has first and second end
portions 70 and 72. The lower cross bar 64 has a tubular cross-sectional
configuration that extends perpendicular to the outer legs 66 and
68 and parallel to the floor 12. The lower cross bar 64 has first
and second end portions 74 and 76.
[0049] The first and second outer legs 66 and 68 of the frame 60
are identical to each other and so their constituent parts are numbered
identically. Each one of the outer legs 66 and 68 has a square,
tubular cross-sectional configuration with an inner major side wall
78 that faces the opposite side (left to right as viewed in FIG.
2) of the bed end 14. Each one of the outer legs 66 and 68 has an
upper end portion 80 and an opposite lower end portion 82. The outer
legs 66 and 68 extend perpendicular to the floor 12 when the bed
10 is assembled as shown in the drawings.
[0050] The first and second end portions 70 and 72 of the upper
cross bar 62 are fixed to the upper end portions 80 of the first
and second outer legs 66 and 68 respectively, by welding, for example.
The first and second end portions 74 and 76 of the lower cross bar
64 are fixed to the first and second outer legs 66 and 68 respectively,
by welding, for example. As a result, the upper and lower cross
bars 62 and 64 and the first and second outer legs 66 and 68 are
fixed to each other as one unit that is movable vertically when
the height of the bed 10 is adjusted as described below.
[0051] The first and second inner legs 24 and 26 of the head end
14 of the bed 10 are telescopically received in the first and second
outer legs 66 and 68 of the head end, respectively. The inner legs
24 and 26 are smaller in cross-sectional configuration than the
outer legs 66 and 68 and are slidable within the outer legs. When
the inner legs 24 and 26 are thus assembled with the outer legs
66 and 68 the lower end portions 34 of the inner legs project from
the outer legs. Casters or other floor-engaging structure 86 (FIG.
1) may be fixed to the lower end portions 34 of the inner legs 24
and 26.
[0052] The inner side wall 78 of the first outer leg 66 is cut
away or relieved in a known manner to allow travel clearance for
the bolts 52 when the first inner leg 24 moves vertically relative
to the first outer leg. In a similar manner, the inner side wall
78 of the second outer leg 68 is cut away or relieved in a known
manner to allow travel clearance for the bolts 54 when the second
inner leg 26 moves vertically relative to the second outer leg.
As a result, the entire movable portion 22 of the head end 14 including
the upper and lower cross bars 62 and 64 and the first and second
outer legs 66 and 68 is movable vertically as one unit, relative
to the fixed portion 20 of the head end, when the height of the
bed 10 is adjusted as described below.
[0053] The movable portion of the head end 14 of the bed 10 includes
a drive assembly 90 for receiving rotational force and, in response,
moving the movable portion 22 of the head end vertically relative
to the fixed portion 20 of the head end. The drive assembly 90 includes
a gearbox 140 described below in detail, that is fixed in position
on the lower cross bar 64 of the frame 60.
[0054] The drive assembly 90 also includes an externally threaded
acme screw or lead screw 92. The lead screw 92 is mounted generally
vertically in the frame 60. An upper end portion 94 of the lead
screw 92 is supported on the upper cross bar 62 for rotational movement
relative to the frame 60 about a drive axis 96. An upper screw pin
98 (FIG. 3) projects radially outward from the lead screw 92 near
the upper end portion 94 of the lead screw. The upper end portion
94 of the lead screw 92 is not movable axially relative to the upper
cross bar 62.
[0055] A lower end portion 100 of the lead screw 92 (FIG. 5) is
supported on the gearbox 140 in a manner described below for rotation
relative to the frame 60. The lower end portion 100 of the lead
screw 92 includes an axially projecting tenon 102 that forms the
lower terminal end of the lead screw. The lower end portion 100
of the lead screw 92 is not movable axially relative to the lower
cross bar 64. As a result, the lead screw 92 is fixed for movement
vertically with the frame 60 and with the other parts of the movable
portion 22 of the head end 14.
[0056] The drive assembly 90 of the head end 10 also includes a
slip nut assembly 104 (FIGS. 3 and 4) for transmitting force between
the lead screw 92 and the cross-beam 28. The slip nut assembly 104
includes a slip nut housing 106. The nut housing 106 is fixed by
bolts 108 to the upper side wall 40 of the cross-beam 28 at a location
inside the cross-beam. As a result, the slip nut housing 104 is
rigidly coupled by the cross-beam 28 to the inner legs 24 and 26.
[0057] The slip nut assembly 104 also includes a slip nut. The
slip nut may be of the one-piece type shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5134731
entitled Adjustable Bed Having Adjustable Height Legs With Synchronization
Feature, the entire subject matter of which is hereby incorporated
by reference.
[0058] Alternatively, and as preferred, the slip nut assembly 104
includes a slip nut 110 as shown and described herein. The slip
nut 110 is formed as two separate pieces 112 and 114 as seen in
FIGS. 3 and 4. The first and second slip nut halves 112 and 114
are formed by casting or molding. The first and second slip nut
halves 112 and 114 are identical to each other.
[0059] An upper slip nut pin 116 is formed as one piece with the
first slip nut half 112. A lower slip nut pin 118 is formed as one
piece with the second slip nut half 114. The upper and lower slip
nut pins 116 and 118 project axially from opposite upper and lower
end surfaces of the slip nut 110. The two slip nut halves 112 and
114 when placed together as shown in FIG. 3 define an internal thread
convolution 120 into which the lead screw 92 is threaded. A plurality
of circumferential grooves 122 are formed on the outer surface of
the slip nut 110. The grooves 122 do not extend helically but rather
extend perpendicular to the drive axis 96.
[0060] The slip nut assembly 104 further includes a pair of pressure
plates 124 mounted in the slip nut housing 106. The pressure plates
124 have internal grooves 126 that mesh with the external grooves
122 on the slip nut 110 to provide for relative rotation, without
relative axial movement, between the slip nut and the pressure plates.
The pressure plates 124 are movable laterally in the slip nut housing
106 (left to right as viewed in FIG. 3) but are blocked from rotation
within the housing about the axis 96.
[0061] A pair of springs 128 are associated with the pressure plates
124. Each spring 128 is biased against its associated pressure plate
124 by a respective set screw 130 that is screwed into the slip
nut housing 106. The springs 128 urge the pressure plates radially
inward against the slip nut halves 112 and 114 which are, thereby,
urged radially inward against the lead screw 92.
[0062] The gearbox 140 (FIGS. 2 5 and 6) is fixed to the frame
60 and is operable to receive rotational force from outside the
head end 14 of the bed 10 and, in response, effect rotation of the
lead screw 92 about the drive axis 96. The gearbox 140 includes
a housing 142. The gearbox housing 142 has a main body portion 144
and an output portion 146 that projects upward from the main body
portion. The gearbox 140 is oriented relative to the frame 60 so
that the drive axis 96 extends vertically into the output portion
146 of the housing 142. The gearbox 140 is fixed by one or more
bolts 148 (FIG. 2), or other means, to the lower cross bar 64 of
the frame 60 of the head end 14 of the bed 10.
[0063] Two bushings 150 and 152 (FIG. 5) in the main body portion
144 of the housing 142 support a lower input shaft 160 for rotation
relative to the housing. The bushing 152 is supported on a vertically
extending internal wall 154 of the housing 142. The wall 154 is,
for clarity, not shown in FIG. 6.
[0064] The lower input shaft 160 is rotatable about an axis 162
that is perpendicular to the drive axis 96. A lower gear assembly
164 is fixed on the lower input shaft 160 for rotation with the
lower input shaft, at a location between the two bushings 150 and
152. The lower gear assembly 164 includes a spur gear 168 and a
bevel gear 166.
[0065] The lower input shaft 160 has first and second opposite
end portions 170 and 172. A pair of lower drive pins 174 project
radially from the lower input shaft 160 at diametrically opposite
locations on the first end portion 170. The lower drive pins 174
are fixed for rotation with the lower input shaft 160. A pair of
second drive pins 176 project radially from the second end portion
172 of the lower input shaft 160. The second drive pins 176 are
fixed for rotation with the lower input shaft 160.
[0066] Two bushings 180 and 182 in the main body portion 144 of
the housing 142 support an upper input shaft 190 for rotation relative
to the housing. The bushing 180 which is located above the bushing
152 of the lower input shaft 160 is supported on the internal wall
154. The upper input shaft 190 is rotatable about an axis 192 that
is perpendicular to the drive axis 96 at a location above and parallel
to the lower input shaft 160 and its axis 162. As a result, the
upper input shaft 190 is located between the lower input shaft 160
and the output portion 146 of the gearbox housing 142.
[0067] An upper gear assembly 194 is fixed on the upper input shaft
190 for rotation with the upper input shaft, at a location between
the two bushings 180 and 182. The upper gear assembly 194 includes
a spur gear 196 and a bevel gear 198. The upper input shaft 190
has first and second opposite end portions 200 and 202. A pair of
upper drive pins 204 project radially from the upper input shaft
190 at diametrically opposite locations on the first end portion
200. The upper drive pins 204 are fixed for rotation with the upper
input shaft 190.
[0068] The upper gear assembly 194 on the upper input shaft 190
is in meshing engagement with the lower gear assembly 164 on the
lower input shaft 160. Specifically, the spur gear 196 on the upper
gear assembly 194 is in meshing engagement with the spur gear 168
of the lower gear assembly 164. As a result, rotation of the lower
input shaft 160 in either direction about its axis 162 results in
rotation of the upper input shaft 190 in the opposite direction
of rotation about its own axis 192. Similarly, rotation of the upper
input shaft 190 in either direction about its axis 192 results in
rotation of the lower input shaft 160 in the opposite direction
of rotation about its own axis 162.
[0069] The output portion 146 of the housing 142 supports an output
gear assembly 208. The output gear assembly 208 includes an output
bevel gear 210 that is in meshing engagement with the bevel gear
198 on the upper input shaft 190. The output bevel gear 210 is supported
in the output portion 146 of the housing 142 by one or more bushings
212 for rotation about the drive axis 96. An upwardly opening mortise
214 is formed in the output bevel gear 210. The tenon 102 on the
lower end portion 100 of the lead screw 92 extends into the mortise
214 in the output bevel gear 210. As a result, the output bevel
gear 210 is fixed for rotation with the lead screw 92 about the
drive axis 96. Therefore, rotation of either the lower input shaft
160 or the upper input shaft 190 results in rotation of the lead
screw 92 about the drive axis 96.
[0070] The gearbox housing 142 has several access ports for the
input shafts 160 and 190. The main body portion 144 of the gearbox
housing 142 has a main access opening 220 adjacent the first end
portions 200 and 170 of the upper and lower input shafts 190 and
160 respectively. The main access opening 220 faces the foot end
14a of the bed 10 when the bed is assembled, as shown in FIG. 1.
A movable door or drive shaft cover 222 is pivotally connected to
the gearbox housing 142. The cover 222 is movable between a first
position as shown in solid lines in FIG. 5 and a second position
as shown partially in dash-dot lines in FIG. 5. In the first position,
the cover 222 covers the lower input shaft 160 and makes the upper
input shaft 190 accessible from the exterior of the gearbox 140.
In the second position, the cover 222 covers the upper input shaft
190 and makes the lower input shaft 160 accessible from the exterior
of the gearbox 140.
[0071] The main body portion 144 of the gearbox housing 142 has
a secondary access opening 224 adjacent the second end portion 172
of the lower input shaft 160. The secondary access opening 224 faces
away from the foot end 14a of the bed 10 when the bed is assembled.
A movable cover or cover 226 is pivotally connected to the gearbox
housing 142. The cover 226 is movable between a first or closed
position as shown in solid lines in FIG. 5 in which the cover covers
the second end portion 172 of the lower input shaft 160 and a second
or open position (not shown) in which the cover is opened and the
lower input shaft 160 is accessible from the exterior of the gearbox
140.
[0072] The foot end 14a of the bed 10 (FIG. 1) is identical in
construction to the head end 14. Corresponding parts of the foot
end 14a are identified herein with reference numerals identical
to those of the corresponding parts of the head end 14 but having
the suffix "a" attached.
[0073] The foot end 14a of the bed 10 is interchangeable with the
head end 14. When the bed 10 is assembled as in FIG. 1 the main
access opening 220a of the gearbox 140a of the foot end 14a of the
bed faces toward the main access opening 220 of the gearbox 140
of the head end 14 of the bed.
[0074] Because the head end 14 and the foot end 14a are identical,
the main access opening 220a of the foot end gearbox 140a is at
the same height off the floor 12 as the main access opening 220
of the head end gearbox 140. The lower input shaft 160a of the foot
end gearbox 140a is at the same height off the floor 12 as the lower
input shaft 160 of the head end gearbox 140. The upper input shaft
190a of the foot end gearbox 140a is at the same height off the
floor 12 as the upper input shaft 190 of the head end gearbox 140.
[0075] The bed 10 includes a spring assembly 230 for supporting
a mattress (not shown) on which the patient lies. The spring assembly
shown includes a head spring 232 a foot spring 234 and a knee
unit 236; other spring assemblies can be used. The several parts
of the spring assembly 230 may be pivotable relative to each other
and relative to the head end 14 and the foot end 14a, in a known
manner. The spring assembly 230 is supported by brackets on the
movable portions 22 and 22a of the head end 14 and the foot end
14a, respectively, in a known manner, for vertical movement with
the movable portions of the head end and the foot end.
[0076] The foot spring 234 supports an electric motor shown schematically
at 240 (FIG. 1). The electric motor 240 is actuatable in a known
manner by one or more controls, such as a pendant (not shown), to
raise or lower the spring assembly 230 in a manner described below.
[0077] The bed 10 includes a drive tube assembly 250 for transmitting
rotary force from the electric motor 240 to the head end 14 of the
bed, and from the electric motor 240 to the foot end 14a of the
bed. The drive tube assembly 250 includes a first drive tube section
252. The first drive tube section 252 extends between and interconnects
the motor 240 and the head end 14 of the bed 10. The drive tube
assembly 250 also includes a second drive tube section 254. The
second drive tube section 254 extends between and interconnects
the motor 240 and the foot end 14a of the bed 10.
[0078] The first drive tube section 252 is connected with the motor
240 in a known manner so that the first drive tube section is rotatable
in a first direction of rotation, relative to both the head end
14 of the bed and the foot end 14a of the bed, upon "raising"
actuation of the motor. The first drive tube section 252 is rotatable
in a second direction of rotation opposite the first direction,
upon "lowering" actuation of the motor 240.
[0079] The second drive tube section 254 is connected with the
motor 240 in a known manner so that the second drive tube section
is rotatable in the same first direction of rotation upon "raising"
actuation of the motor, and rotatable in the same second direction
of rotation opposite the first direction, upon "lowering"
actuation of the motor. Thus, the first drive tube section 252 and
the second drive tube section 254 are coupled for rotation with
each other in the same direction of rotation, relative to the head
end 14 and the foot end 14a of the bed 10 upon actuation of the
electric motor 240.
[0080] A typical position for the parts of the bed 10 is shown
schematically in FIG. 1. The first drive tube section 252 extends
from the electric motor 240 to the upper input shaft 190 of the
gearbox 140 on the head end 14 of the bed 10 as shown in dash-dot
lines in FIG. 5. The drive pins 204 on the upper input shaft 190
of the gearbox 140 of the head end 14 couple the upper input shaft
for rotation with the first drive tube section 252.
[0081] The second drive tube section 254 extends from the electric
motor 240 to the lower input shaft 160a (not shown) of the gearbox
140a on the foot end 14a of the bed 10. The drive pins 174a (not
shown) on the upper input shaft 160a of the gearbox 140a of the
foot end 14a couple the lower input shaft 160a for rotation with
the second drive tube section 254.
[0082] As a result, the connection between the drive tube assembly
250 and the head end 14 of the bed 10 is at a different vertical
height off the floor 12 than the connection between the drive tube
assembly and the foot end 14a of the bed, even though the two gearboxes
140 and 140a are each, as a whole, at the same vertical height off
the floor.
[0083] Upon actuation of the motor 240 in a direction of rotation
so as to raise the bed 10 the drive tube assembly 250 rotates in
a first direction of rotation relative to the head end 14 and the
foot end 14a of the bed. The first drive tube section 252 and the
second drive tube section 254 both rotate in the first direction
of rotation. The first direction of rotation is generally perpendicular
to the axes of rotation 96 and 96a of the lead screws 92 and 92a,
respectively.
[0084] The first drive tube section 252 which is coupled for rotation
with the upper input shaft 190 of the gearbox 140 of the head end
14 causes the upper input shaft to rotate in the first direction
of rotation, for example, clockwise as viewed in FIG. 6 as indicated
by the arrow 253. The rotation of the upper input shaft 190 is transmitted
through the upper bevel gear 198 (FIG. 5) into the output shaft
208 and thence into the lead screw 92 of the head end 14 of the
bed 10.
[0085] The lead screw 92 rotates about the drive axis 96. The rotation
of the lead screw 92 constitutes rotation relative to the slip nut
110. Because the lead screw 92 and the slip nut 110 are threadedly
engaged, this relative rotation produces relative axial movement
between the lead screw and the slip nut.
[0086] The relative axial movement between the lead screw 92 and
the slip nut 110 is produced because the slip nut does not rotate
on the lead screw. The slip nut 110 does not rotate because of the
pressure plates 124 of the nut assembly 104. Specifically, the pressure
plates 124 are mounted non-rotatably about the axis 96 in the nut
housing 106. The radially inwardly directed force exerted by the
pressure plate springs 128 urging the pressure plates 124 against
the slip nut halves 112 and 114 is normally strong enough so that
the abutting engagement of the pressure plates and the slip nut
halves couples the slip nut to the pressure plates and thus prevents
the slip nut from rotating on the lead screw 92. When the lead screw
92 is driven to rotate about its axis 96 therefore, the rotational
force transmitted from the lead screw to the slip nut is not great
enough to overcome this holding force exerted by the pressure plates
124 on the slip nut, and the slip nut does not rotate with the lead
screw. Instead, the slip nut 110 translates along the screw 92 (or
vice versa), producing relative axial movement between the nut housing
106 and the screw.
[0087] The relative axial movement that results is movement of
the lead screw 92 and not the nut 110 for the following reasons.
The slip nut 110 is mounted in the nut housing 106 which is fixed
to the cross-beam 28 of the fixed portion 20 of the head end 14
of the bed 10. The fixed portion 20 of the bed 10 rests on the floor
12 supporting the movable portion 22 of the head end 14 off the
floor. As a result, force tending to produce relative axial movement
between the slip nut housing 104 and the lead screw 92 tends to
cause the movable portion 22 of the head end 14 including the lead
screw 92 to move axially in space relative to the floor 12 as it
rotates about the drive axis.
[0088] Because the lead screw 92 is fixed in position vertically
on the frame 60 the vertical movement of the lead screw 92 drives
the entire movable portion 22 of the head end 14 vertically upward,
relative to the fixed portion 20 of the head end. The frame 60 of
the head end 14 and the gearbox 140 move vertically with the lead
screw 96 relative to the floor 12.
[0089] The structure of the fixed portion 20 of the head end 14
is advantageous as follows. Axially directed force from the slip
nut housing 106 is transmitted directly into the rigid cross-beam
28 to which the slip nut housing is fixed. This force is transmitted
directly into the inner legs 24 and 26 to which the cross-beam
28 is rigidly fixed. As a result, no cables or pulleys, such as
those shown in the aforementioned U.S. Pat. No. 5134731 are needed
in the head end 14 of the bed 10.
[0090] The slip nut assembly 104 is operative to limit upward and
downward travel of the movable portion 22 of the head end 14 of
the bed 10 in a manner similar to that described in U.S. Pat. No.
5134731 discussed above. Specifically, when the lead screw 92
reaches its end of downward travel relative to the slip nut 110
the radially extending pin 98 (FIG. 3) on the rotating screw contacts
the axially projecting pin 116 on the slip nut 110. This engagement
couples the slip nut 110 for rotation with the lead screw 92 overcoming
the holding force of pressure plates 124. As the slip nut 110 rotates
thereafter, it rotates within the pressure plates 124 and thus within
the slip nut housing 104. Because the slip nut 110 is rotating with
the lead screw 92 it is no longer translating along the lead screw,
and the slip nut no longer transmits axial force from the lead screw
to the nut housing 106. This eliminates further relative vertical
movement between the lead screw 92 and the slip nut 110 and the
movable portion 22 of the head end 14 ceases vertical movement relative
to the fixed portion 20 of the head end.
[0091] The above-described construction of the slip nut 100 is
advantageous as follows. Because the slip nut 100 can be cast or
molded, no costly machining process is needed. In addition, the
axially projecting pins 116 and 118 can be formed as one piece with
the remainder of the slip nut 110 simplifying the manufacturing
process. Because the two slip nut halves 112 and 114 are identical,
only one mold is needed. Also, when the slip nut 110 rotates at
its end of travel as described above, the parting line between the
two slip nut halves 112 and 114 makes an audible clicking noise
that can signal the user of the bed of the end of travel condition.
[0092] At the same time that the first drive tube section 252 is
driving the lead screw 92 of the head end 14 to move the head end
upward, the second drive tube section 254 is driving the lead screw
92a of the foot end 14a of the bed 10 to move the foot end upward.
FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of parts of the bed 10 that
illustrates the directions of movement of the parts. The second
drive tube section 254 is coupled (not shown) to the lower input
shaft 160a of the gearbox 140a of the foot end 14a. Upon actuation
of the motor 240 to raise the head end 14 of the bed 10 as described
above, the second drive tube section 254 rotates in the same first
direction of rotation in space relative to the head end 14 and the
foot end 14a of the bed.
[0093] The rotation of the second drive tube section 254 causes
the lower input shaft 160a of the foot end 14 to rotate in the first
direction of rotation, which is counter-clockwise if looking at
the great box 140a as viewed in FIG. 6 because the foot end 14a
faces the opposite direction from the head end 14. This rotation
of the lower input shaft 160a is transmitted through the bevel gears
164a and 194a into the upper input shaft 190a, causing the upper
input shaft 190a to rotate in the opposite direction, that is, a
clockwise direction as viewed in FIG. 6. This rotation of the upper
input shaft 190a is transmitted into the output shaft 208a and thence
into the lead screw 92a of the foot end 14a of the bed 10.
[0094] The lead screw 92a of the foot end 14a of the bed 10 rotates
about its drive axis 96a within the foot end of the bed. This screw
rotation within the foot end 14a is in the same direction in space
as the direction of rotation of the lead screw 92 within the head
end 14 of the bed 10. As a result, the rotation of the lead screw
92a of the foot end 14a causes the movable portion 22a of the foot
end of the bed 10 to move vertically relative to the floor 12 in
the same direction as the head end 14 is moving.
[0095] Thus, both ends 14 and 14a of the bed 10 move vertically
in the same direction--upward or downward as viewed in FIGS. 6 and
7--because the drive tube assembly 250 is connected with different
input points in the two gearboxes 140 and 140a. This simultaneous
movement occurs even though the first drive tube section 252 and
the second drive tube section 254 are rotating in the same direction
relative to the other parts of the assembled bed 10. This result
is achieved in the bed 10 by coupling the second drive tube section
254 with the lower input shaft 160a of the gearbox 140a of the foot
end 14a whenever the first drive tube section 252 is coupled with
the upper input shaft 190 of the gearbox 140 of the head end 14
of the bed 10 (or vice versa).
[0096] When the movable portion 22 of the head end 14 of the bed
10 and the movable portion 22a of the foot end 14a of the bed move
vertically, the bed spring assembly 230 moves vertically also, relative
to the floor 12 as desired. This has the effect of raising or lowering
a patient who is lying on the bed spring assembly 230.
[0097] It can thus be seen that, in the bed 10 illustrated in FIGS.
1-7 the bed end 14 is interchangeable with the bed end 14a, thus
making the bed ends "universal". As a result, when parts
of a bed 10 are selected from a warehouse for delivery to a home
customer, any two bed ends 14 can be selected; there is no need
to pick a "head end" and a distinct "foot end".
This can eliminate trips back to the warehouse if an incorrect selection
is made and discovered at the time of setting up the bed 10 in the
home. In addition, this "universal" quality of the bed
end 14 can make it unnecessary to manufacture two different bed
ends for use in the bed 10.
[0098] The bed end 10 described above incorporates an elevating
mechanism including the cross-beam 28 that is rigidly tied between
the inner legs 24 and 26. The cross-beam 28 receives force from
the lead screw 92 via the slip nut 110 and the slip nut housing
104 and transmits that force to the inner legs 24 and 26. It should
be understood that other types of elevating mechanisms could be
used. For example, FIG. 8 illustrates a prior art bed end shown
in U.S. Pat. No. 5134731. The bed end shown in FIG. 8 includes
an elevating mechanism that uses pulleys and cables to transmit
force between the slip nut housing and the inner legs of the bed
end. This is one type of alternative elevating mechanism that is
usable in a universal bed end 14 as described above.
[0099] FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate a gearbox hi/lo crank 260 for
use in the head end 14 of the bed 10. Prior art home articulating
bed designs that are semi electric beds (manual hi/lo) have a die
cast primary crank with a folding handle. The crank is permanently
fixed to the gearbox. Because the crank has to be located at the
foot end of the bed (projecting out into the room from the outer
major side surface of the foot end), then by default the bed end
that has the crank must be used as the foot end; the head end and
the foot end are not interchangeable.
[0100] Some beds also include an emergency crank that is a simple
wire-form crank for emergency use only. This has one end adapted
to engage the articulation motors and the other end adapted to engage
the hi/lo gearbox. By virtue of its light weight construction this
crank is not suitable for extended use.
[0101] The crank 260 (FIGS. 9 and 10) of the present invention
includes a two-part handle 262 that is hinged at 264 to reduce its
size when installed. A slotted tube 266 projects from the handle
262. The tube 266 has a cylindrical configuration adapted to fit
over the second end portion 172 of the lower input shaft 160 of
the gearbox 140 when the cover is pivoted upward, as shown in FIG.
10. A pair of diametrically opposed slots 268 in the tube 266 fit
over the drive pins 176 on the second end portion 172 of the lower
input shaft 160. The tube 266 is made from steel and is strong enough
together with the other parts of the crank 260 to raise or lower
the bed 10 repeatedly over the lifetime of the bed end 14 without
deformation.
[0102] The crank 260 also includes a detent member 270. In the
illustrated embodiment, the detent member 270 is a U-shaped wire
spring having a base portion 272 crimped onto the tube 266. Two
resilient leg portions 274 of the wire spring 270 project from the
base portion 272. Each one of the leg portions 274 has a bent end
portion 276 adapted to engage (fit behind) one of the drive pins
176 on the lower input shaft 160.
[0103] To assemble the crank 260 to the gearbox 140 the user places
the tube 266 of the crank over the second end portion 172 of the
lower input shaft 160. The slots 268 in the tube 266 are fitted
over the drive pins 176. As the tube 266 is slid axially over the
input shaft 160 the bent end portions 276 of the legs 274 of the
wire spring 270 engage the drive pins 176 and are cammed away from
the drive pins to allow the tube to slide fully onto the input shaft.
[0104] When the drive pins 176 reach the ends of the slots 268
the wire spring legs 274 resiliently move back into their starting
position. In this position, the drive pins 176 engage the bent end
portions 276 of the wire spring legs 274. This engagement resists
removal of the tube 266 from the input shaft 160 without a strong
pull. Thus, the crank 260 is fixedly but not permanently attached
to the gearbox 140 and may be used with the gearbox for so long
as the bed 10 is assembled in that location. When the bed 10 is
to be disassembled, the crank 260 can be removed by the dealer.
[0105] The crank 260 is strong enough to be used as an everyday
crank for hi/lo purposes, or for emergency (power failure) operations.
Nevertheless, the crank 260 is removable from the input shaft 160
by the dealer so that it can be placed on either bed end 14 or 14a
during assembly of the bed 10. Because the crank 260 is removable
from the bed end 14 and usable on another bed end 14 this helps
to make the bed ends 14 and 14a universal--that is, interchangeable
at either end of the bed 10 in comparison to a bed end having a
permanently affixed crank.
[0106] FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate an alternative gearbox 140a for
use in the head end 14 or foot end 14a of the bed 10. The gearbox
140a is similar to the gearbox 140 (FIGS. 1-6), and parts that are
the same or similar are given the same reference numerals with the
suffix "a" added.
[0107] The gearbox 140a includes a housing 142a. The housing 142a
has a main body portion 144a and an outlet portion 146a that projects
upward from the main body portion. The gearbox 140a is mounted on
the frame, in a manner not shown, so that the drive axis 96a extends
vertically into the outlet portion 146a of the housing 142a.
[0108] Two bushings 150a and 152a in the main body portion 144a
of the housing 142a support a single input shaft 280 for rotation
relative to the housing. The input shaft 280 is rotatable about
an axis 282 that is perpendicular to the drive axis 96a.
[0109] The input shaft 280 has first and second opposite end portions
284 and 286. A first gear assembly 288 is fixed on the input shaft
280 for rotation with the input shaft, adjacent the first end portion
284 of the input shaft. A second gear assembly 290 is fixed on the
input shaft 280 for rotation with the input shaft, adjacent the
second end portion 286 of the input shaft. The second gear assembly
290 is spaced apart from the first gear assembly 288.
[0110] A pair of drive pins 292 project radially from the input
shaft 280 at diametrically opposite locations on the first end portion
284. The drive pins 292 are fixed for rotation with the input shaft
280. The gearbox housing 142a has a single access opening 294 adjacent
the first end portion 284 of the input shaft 280. The access opening
294 is not covered by a cover.
[0111] The output portion 144a of the housing 140a supports an
output bevel gear 210a that is located between the first and second
gear assemblies 288 and 290 on the input shaft 280. The output bevel
gear 210a is supported in the output portion 144a of the housing
140a, by one or more bushings 212a, for rotation about the drive
axis 96a. The output bevel gear 210a has a mortise and tenon connection
296 to the lead screw 92a, as described above with reference to
FIG. 5. As a result, the lead screw 92a is fixed for rotation with
the output bevel gear 210a about the drive axis 96a.
[0112] The input shaft 280 is supported by the bushings 150a and
152a, for sliding movement relative to the housing 142a in a direction
parallel to the axis of rotation 282 of the drive shaft. The input
shaft 280 includes a locator pin 300 (FIGS. 11 and 12) that projects
radially from a location between the first and second gear assemblies
288 and 290. The locator pin 300 is received in a U-shaped slot
302 in the housing. The slot 302 has first and second end portions
304 and 306 and a central portion 308.
[0113] When the locator pin 300 is in the first end portion 304
of the slot 302 as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 the first gear assembly
288 on the input shaft 280 is in meshing engagement with the output
bevel gear 210a. As a result, rotation of the input shaft 280 in
a first direction about the axis 282 results in rotation of the
output bevel gear 210a, and the lead screw 92a, in a first direction
of rotation about the drive axis 96a.
[0114] When the locator pin 300 is in the second end portion 306
of the slot 302 the input shaft 280 is moved axially from the position
shown in FIG. 11 and the second gear assembly 290 on the input
shaft is in meshing engagement with the output bevel gear 210a.
Therefore, rotation of the input shaft 280 in the first direction
about the axis 282 results in rotation of the output bevel gear
210a, and the lead screw 92a, in a second or opposite direction
of rotation about the drive axis 96a.
[0115] As a result, the bed end 14 to which the gearbox 140a is
attached can be used at either end of the bed 10 and still provides
simultaneous upward or downward movement of both bed ends, simply
by moving the input shaft 280 from one position to the other. Therefore,
a bed 10 having two identical bed ends 14 with gearboxes 140a of
the type shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 can use the two bed ends interchangeably
simply by adjusting the gearbox as described above.
[0116] FIG. 13 illustrates another alternative gearbox 140b for
use in the head end or foot end of the bed 10. The gearbox 140b
is similar in construction and operation to the gearbox 140a (FIGS.
11 and 12). Parts of the gearbox 140b that are the same as or similar
to corresponding parts of the gearbox 140a are given the same reference
numerals with the suffix "b" attached.
[0117] The gearbox 140b (FIG. 13) includes an input shaft 280b
that is supported for sliding movement relative to the housing 142b
in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the input shaft.
Disposed between the two gear assemblies 288b and 290b on the input
shaft 280b is a control portion 310 of the input shaft. The control
portion 310 includes two circumferential grooves 312 and 314 spaced
axially from each other. The gearbox 310 also includes a locator
pin 316. The locator pin 316 is supported on the housing 142b for
in-and-out (radial) sliding movement relative to the housing and
to the input shaft 280b.
[0118] When the locator pin 316 is in the first groove 312 on the
input shaft 280b, as shown in FIG. 13 the first gear assembly 288b
on the input shaft 280b is in meshing engagement with the output
bevel gear 210b. As a result, rotation of the input shaft 280b in
a first direction about the axis 282b results in rotation of the
output bevel gear 210b, and the lead screw 92b, in a first direction
of rotation about the drive axis 96b.
[0119] The locator pin 316 can be pulled out of the first groove
312 against the bias of a spring 318 to enable the input shaft 280b
to be moved axially until the second groove 314 is located radially
inward of the locator pin. The locator pin 316 can then be released
and the spring 318 will hold it in the second groove 314. In this
position, the second gear assembly 290b on the input shaft 280b
is in meshing engagement with the output bevel gear 210b. Therefore,
rotation of the input shaft 280b in the first direction about the
axis 282b results in rotation of the output bevel gear 210b, and
the lead screw 92b, in a second or opposite direction of rotation
about the drive axis 96b.
[0120] As a result, the bed end 14 to which the gearbox 140b is
attached can be used at either end of the bed 10 and still provide
simultaneous upward or downward movement at both bed ends 14 and
14a, simply by moving the input shaft 280b axially from one position
to the other. Therefore, a bed 10 having two identical bed ends
with gearboxes 140b of the type shown in FIG. 13 can use the two
bed ends interchangeably simply by adjusting the gearbox as described
above.
[0121] FIGS. 14-17 illustrate some alternative corner plate (bracket)
designs for use in the head end 14 or foot end 14a of the bed 10.
The corner plates shown in FIGS. 14-17 can be used with other bed
ends, and, specifically, with other bed ends that do not have one
of the gearbox designs 140 140a or 140b, or the elevating mechanism
described above. The corner plates are designed to enable a bed
end to which the corner plates are attached, to be reversed front
to back and still function to support a spring assembly of the bed.
This feature makes the bed ends more easily used at either end of
the bed 10.
[0122] The corner plates are shown with bed ends 14b, 14c, and
14d that are similar in construction and operation to the bed end
14. The bed end 14b (FIG. 14) includes first and second corner plates
320 and 322 that are mirror images of each other and that extend
from first and second opposite major side surfaces 324 and 326 of
the bed end 14b.
[0123] When the bed end 14b is assembled in a bed 10 so that the
first corner plate 320 is to be used (for example with a frame rail
or a spring assembly shown partially at 328), the first corner plate
320 is uncovered. A wall protector 330 is placed over the unused
second corner plate 322. As a result, the first corner plate 320
is available for use, and the second corner plate 322 is protected
and covered to prevent contact with the wall if the bed end 14b
is placed with the second corner plate facing the wall.
[0124] When the bed end 14b is assembled in a bed 10 so that the
second corner plate 322 is to be used, the second corner plate is
uncovered (not shown). The wall protector 330 is placed over the
unused first corner plate 320. As a result, the second corner plate
322 is available for use, and the first corner plate 320 is protected
from contact with the wall.
[0125] In this manner, the bed end 14b can be assembled in a bed
10 so that either the first major side surface 324 or the second
major side surface 326 of the bed end faces the other parts of the
assembled bed 10 and a corner plate 320 and 322 will be available
to support the spring assembly or frame rails 328 of the bed.
[0126] The bed end 14c (FIG. 15) includes a corner plate assembly
332 including first and second corner plates 334 and 336 that are
mirror images of each other and that are extendible from first and
second opposite major side surfaces 338 and 340 of the bed end.
The corner plate assembly 332 includes a central portion 342 that
is fixed by rivets 356 or in another manner, to a side surface
348 of the bed end 14c.
[0127] The first corner plate 334 is hinged to the central portion
342. The first corner plate 334 is pivotally movable between a first
position in which it projects from the first major side surface
38 of the bed end 14c as shown in FIG. 15 and a second position
(not shown) in which the first corner plate lies flat against the
first major side surface.
[0128] The second corner plate 336 is also hinged to the central
portion 342. The second corner plate 336 is pivotally movable between
a first position in which it projects from the second major side
surface 340 of the bed end 14c as shown in FIG. 15 and a second
position (not shown) in which the second corner plate lies flat
against the second major side surface.
[0129] When the bed end 14c is to be assembled in a bed 10 with
the first major side surface 338 facing the opposite end of the
bed, the first corner plate 334 is swung into the operative position
shown in FIG. 15. The frame rail or spring assembly shown partially
at 328 is attached to the first corner plate 334. When this is done,
the second corner plate 336 can be laid flat against the second
major side surface 340 of the bed end 14c, out of the way.
[0130] When the bed end 14c is to be assembled in a bed 10 with
the second major side surface 340 facing the opposite end of the
bed, the second corner plate 336 is swung into the operative position
shown in FIG. 15. A frame rail or spring assembly such as shown
partially at 328 is attached to the second corner plate 336. When
this is done, the first corner plate 334 can be laid flat against
the first major side surface 338 of the bed end 14c, out of the
way.
[0131] In this manner, the bed end 14c can be assembled in a bed
10 so that either the first major side surface 338 or the second
major side surface 340 of the bed end faces the other parts of the
assembled bed, and a corner plate 334 or 336 will be available to
support the spring assembly or frame rails 328 of the bed.
[0132] The bed end 14d (FIG. 16) includes a single corner plate
350 that is movable between first and second opposite major side
surfaces 352 and 354 of the bed end 14d. The bed end has two support
pins 356 for supporting the corner plate 350. The support pins 356
project from the side 358 of the bed end 14d.
[0133] The bed end 14d also has a lock member indicated schematically
at 360. The lock member 360 may be a pin, for example, that is movable
vertically on the bed end 14d along a slot 362. The corner plate
350 has two notches 364 for receiving the support pins 356 on the
bed end 14d.
[0134] When the bed end 14d is assembled in a bed 10 so that the
corner plate 350 is to be used projecting from the first major side
surface 352 of the bed end (for example with a frame rail or a spring
assembly shown partially at 328), the corner plate 350 is assembled
as shown attached in FIG. 16 with the pins 356 received in the notches
364. The lock member 360 is moved into a locking position against
the corner plate 350 to hold the corner plate in position on the
bed end 14d.
[0135] When the bed end 14d is assembled in a bed 10 so that the
corner plate 350 is to be used projecting from the second major
side surface 354 of the bed end, the corner plate is removed and
switched to the other side of the bed end, as shown to the left
in FIG. 16. The corner plate 350 is hooked onto the support pins
356 and the locking mechanism 360 is used to hold the corner plate
in that position on the bed end 14d.
[0136] In this manner, the bed end 14d can be assembled in a bed
10 so that either the first major side surface 352 or the second
major side surface 354 of the bed end faces the other parts of the
assembled bed, and a corner plate 350 will be available to support
the spring assembly or frame rails 328 of the bed.
[0137] FIG. 17 illustrates the use of the bed end 14d with a spring
assembly or frame rail 370 that has notches for receiving the support
pins 356 on the bed end. In this case, a separate corner plate,
such as the corner plate 350 is not needed. The support pins 356
function as the reversible corner plate. The spring assembly or
frame rail 370 is supportable from either major side surface 352
or 354 of the bed end 14d.
[0138] The parts of the bed end 14 shown in FIGS. 1-6 are structural
and operational parts for controlling at least one operational aspect
of the bed, specifically, elevation of the bed. A bed end 14 in
accordance with the present invention also includes a bed end cover
for enclosing and covering the operational and structural parts.
Several alternative covers are shown, in FIGS. 18-22.
[0139] The preferred material for these bed end covers is an engineered
plastic. The selected material should be washable without being
affected by water or solvents and without absorbing moisture. The
selected material should also be scratch resistant, impact resistant,
and ultraviolet resistant. Also, the material should be able to
be molded or extruded with a single color throughout. Suitable materials
include but are not limited to HDPE, ABS, and PVC.
[0140] The materials typically used for prior art decorative/covering
panels in home care adjustable beds are paper or fiberboard covered
in vinyl laminate. This material can scratch completely through
the laminate, absorbs moisture when washed, does not have high impact
resistance, and is not ultraviolet resistant. In addition, such
a cover is manufactured by dropping the various panels of the cover
into a fixture, then screwing or gluing them together. This is a
time and labor-intensive operation.
[0141] An engineered plastic bed end cover is easier to handle,
because it is impact and scratch resistant. It is also quicker to
assemble in the plant. It is also washable when returned from home
use to the dealer, for use by another patient, as is required. It
is cost effective to manufacture, more durable, and stronger. In
addition, the use of molded plastic for the bed end cover allows
for color variations and therefore more artistic quality to the
bed end, as well as different physical profiles or configurations
for the bed end.
[0142] The cover 400 (FIGS. 18 and 19) is one example of a plastic
bed end cover that is constructed in accordance with the present
invention. The cover 400 is a hollow cover for enclosing and covering
the operational and structural assembly shown in FIG. 2. This cover
400 is extremely easy to assemble to the structural and operational
parts of the bed end 14 as shown in FIG. 2 for example. It is also
easy to manufacture and handle.
[0143] The cover 400 is a one-piece plastic cover having an interior
major side panel 402 that faces inward toward the opposite end of
the bed 10 when assembled, and an opposite exterior major side panel
404. The cover 400 is preferably made by blow molding. A preferred
material is HDPE (high density polyethylene).
[0144] The cover 400 also has an upper edge portion 406 interconnecting
the interior and exterior major side panel, panels 402 and 404.
First and second opposite side edge portions 408 and 410 of the
cover 400 interconnect the interior and exterior major side panels
402 and 404 adjacent the first and second legs (shown in phantom
in FIG. 18) of the bed end. The cover 400 further has a lower edge
portion 412 extending between the first and second opposite side
edge portions 408 and 410. The cover 400 has an open bottom edge
414 for enabling sliding movement of the hollow cover over the operational
and structural assembly in a direction between the upper edge portion
406 and the lower edge portion 412 of the cover (as indicated by
the arrow 416).
[0145] The cover 400 illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19 has two optional
openings 418 extending through the bed end cover between the interior
major side panel 402 and the exterior major side panel 404. The
two openings 418 are disposed adjacent the upper edge portion 406
of the cover 400. Each one of the two openings 418 has a lower edge
420 that extends parallel to the lower edge portion 412 of the cover
400. As a result, a supporting assembly, such as a trapeze (not
shown), can be clamped onto the bed end 14 between the lower edge
420 of one of the openings 418 and the lower edge portion 412 of
the cover 400.
[0146] The cover 430 (FIG. 20) is another example of a plastic
bed end cover that is constructed in accordance with the present
invention. The cover 430 is a hollow cover for enclosing and covering
the operational and structural assembly or parts of a bed end. The
cover 430 has a three-piece plastic construction including a central
panel 432 and two identical end caps 433 (only one of which is shown).
[0147] The central panel 432 is a one-piece extrusion preferably
made from PVC. The central panel 432 includes an interior major
side panel 434 that faces the opposite end of the bed 10 when assembled,
and an opposite exterior major side panel 436. The panels 434 and
436 are joined by an upper edge panel 438 in an upside-down U-shaped
configuration to form the central panel 432.
[0148] The interior major side panel 434 has a planar configuration
with a rectangular rib 440 forming a bottom end portion of the panel.
Similarly, the exterior major side panel 436 has a planar configuration
with a rectangular rib 442 forming a bottom end portion of the panel.
The upper edge panel 438 forms a similar rectangular configuration
with the top edge portions 444 and 446 of the interior and exterior
major side panels 434 and 436 respectively.
[0149] The end caps 433 may be made from ABS. The end cap 433 has
a generally planar configuration. The end cap 433 has three flanges
450 452 and 454 that matingly engage three edges, 456 of the central
panel 432 to secure the end cap to the central panel. The end cap
433 has a more rigid construction than the central panel 432 and,
as a result, can help to rigidify the assembled cover 430.
[0150] The cover 430 has an open bottom edge 462 for enabling sliding
movement of the hollow cover over the operational and structural
assembly in a direction between the upper edge panel 438 and the
bottom edge of the cover, as indicated by the arrow 464.
[0151] This cover 430 is therefore easy to assemble to the structural
and operational parts of the bed end 14 as shown in FIG. 2 for
example. It is also easy to manufacture and handle, and has the
other advantages discussed above with reference to the embodiment
of FIGS. 18 and 19.
[0152] The cover 470 (FIG. 20) is a third example of a plastic
bed end cover that is constructed in accordance with the present
invention. The cover 470 is a hollow cover for enclosing and covering
the operational and structural assembly.
[0153] The cover 470 is similar to the cover 430 (FIG. 20) with
the exception that the central panel 472 in the cover 430 is made
from three pieces, not one. Specifically, the central panel 470
is formed as an interior major side panel 474 an exterior major
side panel 476 and an upper edge panel 478. The three panels 474-478
when joined together to form the central panel 472 have an upside-down
U-shaped configuration. The cover 470 otherwise has the all advantages
and feature described above with respect to the cover 430 (FIGS.
20).
[0154] As noted above, the movable door or drive shaft cover 222
(shown generally in FIGS. 5 and 6) is pivotally movable relative
to the main access opening 220 and thus relative to the upper and
lower input shafts 190 and 160 respectively. When the gearbox is
actuated, both input shafts 190 and 160 rotate about their respective
axes, even though only one of them is active. It is desirable to
cover the unused input shaft to prevent contact with the rotating
parts, for example by a hand or a finger. In its first position
as shown in solid lines in FIGS. 5 and 6 the cover 222 covers the
lower input shaft 160 and makes the upper input shaft 190 accessible
from the exterior of the gearbox 140. Covering the lower input shaft
160 prevents contact by a user with the rotating lower input shaft
when it is not being used. In its second position, the cover 222
covers the upper input shaft 190 and makes the lower input shaft
160 accessible from the exterior of the gearbox 140. Covering the
upper input shaft 190 prevents contact by a user with the rotating
upper input shaft when it is not being used.
[0155] The drive shaft cover 222 its attachment to the gearbox
housing 142 and its operation, are shown in more detail in FIGS.
22-26. The cover 222 has a generally semicircular or semi-oval configuration.
The cover has a main body portion 500 with a wider end 502 that
is formed with two pivot pins 504 that are retained in the gearbox
housing 142. The pivot pins 504 define a pivot axis 506 and support
the cover 222 for pivotal movement relative to the gearbox housing
142 between the first and second positions, which are closed positions
of the cover. The cover 222 can also assume any one of a plurality
of open positions intermediate the first and second closed positions,
as shown in FIG. 24 for example.
[0156] At its narrower end 508 the main body portion 500 of the
cover 222 is cut out with slots to form a latching section 510 of
the cover. The latching section 510 includes two gripping ears 512
that project from the main body portion 500. The ears 512 are resiliently
movable relative to the main body portion 500 of the cover 222 and
relative to each other.
[0157] The ears 512 have a first position, in their free state,
when no force is applied to them. In this position, the ears 512
are resiliently biased away from each other, as shown in solid lines
in FIG. 25. The ears 512 have a second position, when force is applied
to move them toward each other, for example by pinching or compressing
them together, as shown in solid lines in FIG. 26. The ears 512
can also assume any position intermediate the first and second positions,
depending on the amount of force applied to them and whether they
are restrained from movement.
[0158] The gearbox housing 142 has a first latching portion 516
for holding the cover 222 in the first position. The first latching
portion 516 includes a notch 518 that is formed between two camming
surfaces 520 on the housing 142. The notch 518 opens into a retaining
slot 522 that is located behind the notch 518 and that is not separately
visible. Similarly, the gearbox housing 142 has a second latching
portion 526 (FIGS. 22 and 25) for holding the cover 222 in the second
position. The second latching portion 526 includes a notch 528 that
is formed between two camming surfaces 530 on the housing 142. The
notch 528 opens into a retaining slot 532 that is located behind
the notch.
[0159] The cover 222 can be releasably latched in either the first
position or the second position relative to the gearbox housing
142. The cover 222 is normally left in either the first position
or the second position by the user. If the cover 222 is disposed
in the second position, as shown in FIGS. 23-26 the ears 512 are
disposed in the retaining slot 532 in the latching portion 526.
When it is desired to move the cover out of the first position,
the ears 512 are pinched together (moved toward each other), against
the inherent bias of the material of the cover 222.
[0160] As the two ears 512 are brought toward each other, their
combined width decreases so that they are able to fit through the
notch 528. The cover 222 is pulled so that the ears 512 come out
of the retaining slot 532 through the notch 528. The cover 222 is
then in an open position, for example, as shown in FIG. 24. In this
open position, when the ears 512 are released, they spring back
outwardly, away from each other, to their free state, in which their
combined width is greater than the width of the notch 528.
[0161] When it is desired to move the cover 222 back into the second
position, the cover is pushed against the second latching portion
526 of the housing 142. The ears 512 engage the camming surfaces
530. The ears 512 are cammed inwardly so that their combined width
decreases to the width of the notch 528. The ears 512 move through
the notch 528 into the receiving slot 532. The ears 512 then spring
back outward into engagement with the slot 532. The resilience of
the ears 512 holds them in the slot 532 thus latching the cover
222 in the first position. The latching section 510 of the cover
and the second latching portion 526 of the housing 142 together
constitute a first latch that holds the cover 222 in the first closed
position.
[0162] The above description with regard to moving the cover 222
into and out of the second position applies in a similar fashion
to moving the cover into and out of the first position. The latching
section 510 of the cover 222 and the second latching portion 516
of the housing 142 together constitute a second latch that holds
the cover in the second closed position.
[0163] As noted above, the movable portion 22 of the head end 14
includes a frame structure, or frame 60. The bed 14 end may be used
with a multi-piece cover for the frame 60 for example, the cover
430 shown in FIG. 20. Such a cover 430 has seams between the pieces
432 and 434 of the cover. In this case, it is possible that when
the bed end 14 is washed, water can enter the bed end through the
seams between the main panel 432 and the end caps 434. It is desirable
that this water not accumulate in the bed end 14.
[0164] In accordance with a feature of the invention, therefore,
the bed end 14 may be provided with one or more drain openings for
draining water or other liquids out of the bed end. FIGS. 27-29
illustrate portions of a bed frame 540 that is constructed in accordance
with this feature of the invention.
[0165] The bed end 540 includes a lower cross bar 542 which has
a tubular cross-sectional configuration that extends perpendicular
to side rails or legs 544 and 546 and parallel to the floor. The
tubular configuration is U-shaped including a base (bottom) wall
548 and two upstanding side walls 548 that define between them a
channel in the cross bar 542. At least one drain opening is formed
in the base wall 548 of the lower cross bar 542. In the illustrated
embodiment, two drain openings 554 and 556 are formed, spaced apart
at either end of the cross bar 542. The openings 554 and 556 are
semi-circular or half moon in shape, and abut the side rails 544
and 546 respectively, of the frame.
[0166] Because the drain openings 554 and 556 are in the base wall
548 of the cross bar 542 any water that may accumulate in the bed
end 540 as a result of washing the bed end, for example, can easily
drain out. If the bed end 540 is tipped to one side or the other,
the water will drain to one end or the other of the cross bar 542
and drain out of the drain opening 554 or 546. Of course, other
shapes and placements of drain openings in accordance with the invention
are possible.
[0167] In accordance with one feature of the invention, end caps
for a bed end of the present invention are secured to the side rail
of the bed frame in a manner as described below. This feature is
applicable to a multi-piece bed end cover, for example, the bed
end cover 560 (FIG. 20) that is a plastic bed end cover constructed
in accordance with the present invention. The cover 560 is a hollow
cover for enclosing and covering the operational and structural
assembly or parts of a bed end. The cover 560 has a three-piece
plastic construction including a central panel 562 and two identical
end caps 564 (only one of which is shown). The cover 560 is adapted
to fit onto a frame 60 (FIG. 2) having outer legs or side rails
66 and 68. Each of the side rails 66 and 68 has a square cross-sectional
configuration as can be seen in FIG. 35. The side rails 66 and 68
are similar in construction and so only the one side rail 68 and
the attachment of its associated end cap, is described.
[0168] The side rail 68 has a tongue 570 that is located near the
lower end of the side rail, adjacent the cross bar 64. The tongue
570 has an L-shaped configuration including a base leg 572 that
projects outward from the side rail 68 and a main leg 574 that projects
upward from the end of the base leg. The main leg 574 of the tongue
570 thus extends in a direction parallel to the length of the side
rail 68.
[0169] The end cap 564 has a generally U-shaped cross-sectional
configuration including a base wall 580 and two side walls 582 and
584. The side walls extend generally parallel to each other from
opposite ends of the base wall 584. The three walls together define
a cavity or chamber 586 in the end cap 564.
[0170] The end cap 564 has an inner wall portion 588 that is formed
as one piece with the remainder of the end cap. The inner wall portion
588 is located at the bottom of the end cap, inside the cavity 586
of the end cap 564. The inner wall portion 588 is spaced inward
from the base wall 580 of the end cap 564 and defines a small opening
or space 590 between the base wall and the inner wall portion.
[0171] When the end cap 564 is mounted on the side rail 68 the
inner wall portion 588 of the end cap 564 extends over the tongue
570 of the side rail. The tongue 570 of the side rail 68 fits closely
into the small opening 590 between the inner wall portion 588 of
the end cap 564 and the base wall 580 of the end cap. The engagement
of the tongue 570 with the inner wall portion 588 helps to support
the end cap 564 on the side rail 68. The dimensions of the tongue
570 are selected so that the tongue supports the lower end of the
end cap 564 in a solid and stable manner on the side rail 68.
[0172] The opposite upper end of the end cap 564 is also secured
to the side rail 68. Preferably, this takes place with a single
(one and only one) fastener. The single fastener may be a screw
590 as shown in FIG. 34. The screw 590 extends through a single
fastener opening 592 in the end cap 564 and into a threaded opening
594 in the side rail 68. The combination of the single fastener
590 plus the engagement of the end cap 564 with the tongue 570
is sufficient to secure the end cap to the side rail 68. The end
cap 564 can be easily removed from the side rail 68 by unscrewing
the screw 590 and lifting the end cap off the tongue 570.
[0173] The single fastener may be other than a screw. For example,
FIG. 33 shows a push-type fastener 596 of the kind often used for
fastening panels and boards and the like. The fastener 596 has a
head 598 that engages the base wall 580 of the end cap 564. A resiliently
deformable portion 600 of the fastener 596 extends through an opening
602 in the side rail 68. The engagement of the fastener 596 with
the side rail 68 holds the upper end of the end cap 564 firmly in
place on the side rail 68. The fastener 596 may also be of the type
that can be pre-assembled with the end cap 564 in a manner so that
the head 598 is hidden inside the end cap and the end cap thus presents
a clean, fastener-free appearance from the outside.
[0174] As noted above, the central panel 562 is a one-piece plastic
extrusion. The central panel 562 includes an interior major side
panel 610 that faces the opposite end of the bed 10 when assembled,
and an opposite exterior major side panel 612. The side panels 610
and 612 are joined by an upper edge panel in an upside-down U-shaped
configuration to form the central panel 562. When the cover 560
including the central panel 562 and the end caps 564 is assembled
on the frame of the bed end, the major side panels 610 and 612 each
have a curved configuration rather than a planar configuration.
The major side panels 610 and 612 are, preferably, formed during
extrusion with this curved configuration. A preferred material for
the panel 562 is PVC that is extruded into the form required then
frozen into shape over a mold as it cools. Alternatively, the panel
could be roll formed out of steel and painted to match. Plastic
is preferred for economic and durability reasons; it does not dent
like steel and the color match material can hide scratches.
[0175] To help the panels 610 and 612 maintain this curved configuration
during use of the bed, rather than possibly being flattened out,
the panels are engaged with the bed end caps 564 in a manner as
follows. The side walls 582 and 584 of the end cap 564 have a non-planar,
or curved, configuration, as can be seen in FIG. 31 for example.
The side wall 582 which is exemplary, is planar in an upper section
620 then is bowed out for a central section 620 that extends for
most of the vertical extent of the side wall. The bowed section
622 terminates in an outwardly projecting cylindrical boss 624.
Below the boss 624 is a lower planar section 626 at the bottom
end of the side wall 582. All along this length, the side wall 582
has an inner surface 628 that has the same curved configuration.
[0176] The end cap 564 has portions that hold the inner major side
panel 610 of the central panel 562 of the cover 560 against the
curved inner surface 628 of the side wall 582 forcing the major
side panel 610 to assume this same curved configuration. Specifically,
the end cap 564 has a plurality of fingers 630 adjacent the first
side wall 582. The fingers 630 are molded as one piece with the
end cap 564. The fingers 630 are portions of the end cap 564 that
project from the side wall 582 in a direction parallel to but spaced
apart from the side wall. In the illustrated embodiment, there are
three fingers 630 adjacent to the first side wall 582. There are
also three fingers 632 adjacent to the second side wall 584 on
the opposite side of the end cap 564.
[0177] The end cap 564 thus has a channel 634 that is defined between
the fingers 630 and the inner surface 628 of the side wall 582.
The fingers 630 have outer surfaces 636 that are arranged in the
same bowed configuration as the inner surface of the central section
622 of the side wall. As a result, the channel 634 has the same
curved or bowed configuration that is presented by the side wall
582 itself.
[0178] Each one of the major side panels 610 and 612 of the central
panel 562 of the cover 560 has an edge portion that is located adjacent
to the side rail 68 when the central panel is installed or assembled
on the frame. The inner major side panel 610 has an edge portion
640 and the outer major side panel 612 has an edge portion 642.
[0179] The edge portion 640 extends into the channel 634 between
the fingers 630 and the first side wall 582. The edge portion 640
of the inner major side panel 610 is captured between the fingers
630 of the end cap 564 and the first side wall 582. As a result,
the edge portion 640 assumes the same curved configuration as the
channel 634 and as the side wall 582 of the end cap 564.
[0180] On the opposite end of the central panel 562 (to the left
as viewed in FIG. 30), the other end cap 564 in a similar manner,
imparts the same curved configuration to the opposite end of the
inner major side panel 610 of the central panel. Because of the
material characteristics of the central panel 562 this curved configuration
is constant and extends all the way across the width of the central
panel, between the end caps 564. The fingers 630 help to support
the panel 610 against deflection.
[0181] In a similar manner, the second side wall 584 of the end
cap 564 cooperates with the second plurality of fingers 632 to define
a channel between them with a curved configuration that matches
the curved configuration of the second side wall. The edge portion
642 of the outer major side panel 612 is captured between the fingers
632 of the end cap and the second side wall 584. The edge portion
642 extends into the channel that is defined between the fingers
632 and the second side wall 584. As a result, the edge portion
640 assumes the same curved configuration as the second side wall
582 of the end cap 564. In addition, the fingers 632 help to support
the panel 612 against deflection.
[0182] In this manner, the two major side panels 610 and 612 have
identical curved configurations. This can enable placement of the
bed end 14 at either the foot end of the bed 10 or the head end
of the bed, while preserving the same appearance.
[0183] In the illustrated embodiment, the edge portions 640 and
642 of the central panel 562 overlie the side rails 66 and 68 of
the frame, as can be seen in FIG. 35. This arrangement may not be
necessary. For example, the edge portions 640 and 642 could be held
back away inward from the side rail 68 (to the left as viewed in
FIG. 35); it would then be necessary for the fingers and the side
walls of the end cap to extend inward farther past the side rail
68 so as to capture the edge portions of the central panel. In
either case, the panel edge portions are considered to be adjacent
the side rail, that is, they are close enough to be captured and
curved by the end cap 564.
[0184] In the illustrated embodiment, the fingers are located directly
between the side rail 68 and the edge portions 640 and 642 of the
main panel 562. If the edge portions 640 and 642 were located inward
from the side rail 68 (to the left as viewed in FIG. 35), as described
above, the fingers would be between the edge portion and an imaginary
inward projection of the side rail. In either case, the fingers
are considered to be between the side rail 68 and the edge portions
640 and 642 of the main panel 562.
[0185] In the illustrated embodiment, the end cap 564 has a generally
U-shaped cross-sectional configuration, for example, as seen in
FIG. 35. In other embodiments, the end cap 564 could have a different
configuration. For example, the end cap 564 could have a generally
C-shaped configuration, with the base wall 580 being curved rather
than planar. The C-shaped configuration would still include a base
wall and side walls that capture the edge portions of the central
panel to provide them with the desired curved configuration.
[0186] From the above description of the invention, those skilled
in the art will perceive improvements, changes, and modifications
in the invention. Such improvements, changes, and modifications
within the skill of the art are intended to be included within the
scope of the appended claims.
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