Abstract: A backrest pivoting system can have a backrest and an actuator for pivoting the backrest. The actuator is pivotably connected to the backrest by a pivot defining a first pivot axis. The backrest can pivot about a guide member which defines a second pivot axis coaxial with the first pivot axis. A backrest pivoting system can include an actuator and a resilient member mounted in series with the actuator. There is also provided an extendable user support assembly comprising a lower body support panel and a core support panel supported by a frame, the lower body support panel being translatable relative to the frame such that an opening is created between the lower body support panel and the core support panel when the lower body support panel is translated away from the core support panel. There is also provided a method for placing a bed in a vascular position.

Abstract: The pump comprises a measuring enclosure, a plunger mounted within the enclosure, a second enclosure which is contiguous with the first, a pneumatic jack rigidly fixed to the plunger for sliding motion within the second enclosure and defining therein a first and a second chamber, a stop rod which establishes the range of travel of the jack and a linear distributor which communicates at each end with a source of driving fluid. The distributor has three grooves such that in one end position, the measuring chamber is connected to a storage tank and one face of the jack is put into communication with one of the two sources of driving fluid and in the other end position, the measuring enclosure is connected to a collecting tank and the other face of the jack is put into communication with the other source of driving fluid.