Abstract: A control assembly for an adjustable bed includes push-button devices for selectively engaging associated clutches. A single device may be actuated to engage a single clutch. Alternatively, a plurality of devices may be actuated simultaneously to engage a plurality of clutches. As any one or more buttons is pushed, a slide bar sequentially releases all devices and latches those for which buttons are pushed to the clutch-actuating position. A single crank provides torque for a transmission thereby clutched to lift screws.

Abstract: A castor control assembly for an adjustable bed includes a linkage mechanism having rigid link elements, and a single pedal actuator. The pedal may be actuated from the control station to shift the linkage mechanism and operate individual castors for selection of swivel, locking and steering modes, as desired.

Abstract: Independently operable lifting mechanisms are provided at the head and foot ends of the fixed lower base frame of an adjustable hospital bed in order to facilitate independent height adjustment of the head and foot ends of the bed's movable upper frame. The two lifting mechanisms are actuated by respective ones of two drive screws which may be rotated individually or simultaneously and in either direction to position the upper frame at any desired height and at any selected tilt angle. In other words, by turning only one of the drive screws one end of the upper frame is elevated or lowered and the tilt angle will be changed. By rotating both of the drive screws at the same time the upper frame will be raised or lowered at a constant tilt angle. This flexibility enhances the medical treatment that a hospital patient may receive.

Abstract: Different hospital bed adjustments (such as high-low, back and knee adjustments) may be made simultaneously with a transmission that transmits power from a single rotating drive to selected ones of a series of independently rotatable output shafts or drive screws, each of which controls a different bed adjustment. Each of the drive screws may be individually clutched to the rotating drive independently of the other drive screws. With this arrangement, a plurality of drive screws may be clutched at the same time in order to effect concurrent operation of a plurality of adjustment mechanisms thereby obtaining rapid re-positioning of the hospital bed to a new position.