Abstract: This invention provides a novel method of aid and protection in the moving of a mattress or box spring of various sized beds about a residence, retail or commercial premise or institution. It also is very helpful for the handling of panel materials such as sheetrock, plywood, hardy-board or other construction materials, at the same time in all cases affording some protection against back injury and follow-on medical claims plus labor saving, as many of the jobs can be done safely by one person.

Abstract: A power-assist apparatus for use with hospital beds has at least one drive wheel interconnected to a frame of the hospital bed so as to be movable between a first position in which the drive wheel is positioned in spaced relationship to an underlying surface and a second position in which the drive wheel resiliently contacts the underlying surface. A controller is cooperative with the drive wheel so as to move the drive wheel between the first and second positions. A motor is drivably connected to the drive wheel. A handle is connected to the frame of the bed so as to extend upwardly and outwardly therefrom. The handle has control mechanisms for controlling the drive wheel and the motor.

Abstract: A patient support apparatus includes a frame, a patient support coupled to the frame, a push handle coupled to the frame and having a handle post, and a user interface coupled to the handle post and having at least one user input. The user interface is rotatable about an axis defined by the handle post between a first position presenting the at least one user input to a caregiver standing at an end of the frame and a second position presenting the at least one user input to a caregiver standing alongside the frame.

Abstract: A device for covering and facilitating the transport of a mattress that is both durable and portable. The device includes a material cover which encloses the mattress, a zipper or other fastening means for closing the cover, a plurality of handles to allow the user to easily lift, orient, and maneuver the mattress, and a plurality of wheels or casters to permit the user to easily move the enclosed mattress.

Abstract: A bariatric transport is provided. The transport includes a bed area for use by a bariatric patient. The transport further includes a drive assembly that is operable to selectively drive the transport in forward and rearward directions and permit turning of the transport with little or no lateral movement of the transport. Leading and trailing stabilizing wheel assemblies are provided that are selectively moveable into and out of engagement with a supporting floor. Drive devices are also provided to provide selective elevating and lowering of various components of bariatric patient supports.

Abstract: The present invention, in one embodiment, is a device for moving a hospital bed. The device comprises a body, a motor driven wheel coupled to the body, and a hitch coupled to the body and adapted for engaging the hospital bed. Finally, the present invention, in yet another embodiment, is a method for moving a hospital bed with a motorized device. The method comprises maneuvering the device into position next to the hospital bed, hitching the device to the hospital bed, and moving the hospital bed with the device.

Abstract: A patient support and powered transport apparatus are provided. The powered transport apparatus is provided to assist a caregiver in moving the patient support from one location in a care facility to another.

Abstract: A patient support apparatus is disclosed including a patient support and a powered transport device to facilitate movement of a patient support.

Abstract: An accessory support apparatus for use with a patient support includes a handle positioned adjacent an end of the patient support. A coupler is configured to couple the handle to the patient support. An accessory is coupled to the handle.

Abstract: The present application relates to a process for preparing dyed plastics or polymeric dye particles characterized in that it comprises mixing a high molecular weight organic material with a coloristically effective amount of at least one dye of the formula where R1 is hydrogen, hydroxyl or a radical —NHCO—R6, where R6 is C1-C6alkyl or unsubstituted or C1-C4alkyl- or halogen-substituted phenyl, R2 is hydrogen, hydroxyl or a radical W—R7, where W is —NHCO— or —S— and R7 is C1-C6alkyl or unsubstituted or C1-C4alkyl- or halogen-substituted phenyl, R3 is hydrogen, R4 is hydrogen or hydroxyl, R5 is hydrogen, or R3 and R4 combine to form the radical of the formula, where the rings A and B may independently bear further substituents.

Abstract: The present invention, in one embodiment, is a device for moving a hospital bed. The device comprises a body, a motor driven wheel coupled to the body, and a hitch coupled to the body and adapted for engaging the hospital bed. Finally, the present invention, in yet another embodiment, is a method for moving a hospital bed with a motorized device. The method comprises maneuvering the device into position next to the hospital bed, hitching the device to the hospital bed, and moving the hospital bed with the device.

Abstract: A dolly device for facilitating moving of an object by a user. The dolly device includes a base member being designed for supporting the object when the object is placed on the base member. A pair of side members are oppositely coupled to the base member. Each of the side members is positioned substantially orthogonally to the base member. The side members are designed for engaging the object for inhibiting the object from tipping off of the base member when the object is positioned on the base member. At least one wheel is rotatably coupled to each of the side members. The wheel is designed for rollably engaging a support surface for facilitating movement of the object across the support surface when the object is positioned on the base member and the base member is moved across the support surface by the user.

Abstract: A bedding assembly having a storage area integrated therewith. In one aspect, the assembly comprises one or more platforms having a recessed storage area and a deck pivotably mounted to the platform. The deck may be pivoted generally over the platform between a horizontal position where a use can lie upon the deck, such as for sleeping, and a non-horizontal position to allow access to the storage area of the platform. In another aspect, the bedding assembly provides a storage solution for a bunk bed type arrangement. The assembly comprises upper and lower platforms, a deck pivotably mounted at least one of the platforms, a pair of end frames extending between the upper and lower platforms, and a pair of base supports. The upper and lower platforms have sleeves formed therethrough, and at least one of the platforms has a recessed storage area with a pivotably mounted deck thereon to allow access to the storage area.

Abstract: A patient support and powered transport apparatus are provided. The powered transport apparatus is provided to assist a caregiver in moving the patient support from one location in a care facility to another.

Abstract: A mechanism for raising and lowering the height of a patient support surface of a bed which includes a threaded shaft upon which a pulley support is raised and lowered and a chain and pulley system which transfers vertical displacement of the pulley support to the patient support surface. An articulating perimeter frame for supporting a patient on a bed frame which includes a plurality of extruded elongate members which are coupled together by hinges and corner members. The perimeter frame receives and supports inserts which receive head, seat and foot mattress sections. A pivotal push handle/tray combination that is pivotally coupled to the end posts of a bed and includes a mechanism for locking the handle/tray combination into one of a plurality of positions.

Abstract: The invention provides an adjustable bed of the type comprising a bed base frame, having a lead end, a foot end, opposed longitudinal members connecting same end foot members attached to the base frame normally being in contact with a floor surface, an articulated moving upper frame mounted on a carriage having leg support portions and upper body support portions articulated to each other and supported on the carriage for longitudinal shifting of the support portions relative to the base frame; and motor means for raising the upper body support portion and/or the leg support portions the led further comprising at least one wheeled leg member operationally connected to the motor, the at least one leg member being displaceable from a first elevated position to a second deployed position, wherein in the second deployed position the at least one wheeled leg member is brought it in contact with the floor surface and a rolling element supported at the leg member free extremity applies a force to the floor surface s

Abstract: An accessory support apparatus for use with a patient support includes a body including a plurality of accessory couplers. A coupler is configured to couple the body to the patient support for pivotable movement about an axis of rotation. A latch is configured to lock the body selectively in one of a plurality of different positions relative to the patient support.

Abstract: A mobile care cart includes a latch mechanism for coupling the cart to a hospital bed during transport of the bed. The care cart includes an on-board battery and gas supply for supplying electrical and gas outlets, respectively, on the care cart for use by equipment during transport. The care cart is nestable against a headwall when in the hospital room and includes first and second connectors for coupling the electrical and gas supply outlets on the cart to electrical and gas supplies separate from the care cart when the care cart is in a hospital room. The first and second connectors automatically switches to the on-board battery and gas supply to provide an uninterrupted gas and electrical supply during transport when the cart is disconnected from the electrical and gas supplies separate from the care cart for transport.

Abstract: A cover for a mattress usable when the mattress is moved. The cover covers the periphery and flap portions cover a portion of both sides of the mattress. A plurality of peripherally spaced handle straps are riveted to the peripheral portion and the flap portions of the cover and are graspable to move the mattress. In one embodiment, a loop is formed on the inner end of each strap and an elastic cord passes through the loops and its ends secured together to hold the cover on the mattress. In a second embodiment, the cord passes through a hem formed in the inner end of the flap and there are no loops on the straps.

Abstract: A foldable bed assembly includes a mattress, a mediate supporter, a front frame having a first end pivotally connected to the mediate supporter, and a rear frame having a first end pivotally connected to the mediate supporter. A head frame is securely attached to a second end of the front frame and includes a lower end securely located on the ground to avoid sliding. A rear leg frame is securely attached to a second end of the rear frame. One of the front frame and the rear frame includes two handles respectively attached to two lateral sides thereof. Each handle includes an extension that is located between the front frame and the rear frame when the foldable bed assembly is in a folded status.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided to permit upgrading of a hospital room from a general care room to a critical care room and to facilitate transport of a critical care patient on a hospital bed.

Abstract: A device for moving beds includes a moveable frame (2); a lifting mechanism (4) which can cooperate with the underframe of a bed (49); and a steering mechanism (5).

Abstract: An oscillatory bed for providing improved patient care in a hospital, nursing home or home health care setting. The oscillatory bed is characterized by having hinged, adjustable side panels along opposite sides of the length of a cradle located in the oscillating bed, which can be raised from a flattened position to form a "U" shaped cradle configuration during the operation of the bed. The adjustable side panels can be quickly lowered to the flattened position for emergency treatment of the patient or in changing of the bed. The oscillatory bed also includes a linear actuator in a head board section and in a foot board section. By raising the head board section, the patient's head and upper body are raised above the patient's feet. Also, the foot board section can be raised, and in turn the patient's feet are raised above the patient's head and upper body.

Abstract: A one piece rotationally molded cot for toddlers and other individuals includes a recessed sleeping surface supported above a raised bottom wall by a plurality of upwardly extending pillars. A closed dead air space between the bottom wall and sleeping surface and an additional air space beneath the bottom wall and above the room floor provide insulation for warmth. The cots nest in stacked relation for storage in minimum space. Dollies configured for conforming engagement beneath head and foot ends of the cots include swivel casters to facilitate transportation. Accessory items for use with the cot include a foam pad receivable in a fabric pad cover, a mattress, and a sheet. Cooperating VELCRO (.TM.) fasteners secure the cover to the cot and the sheet to the mattress.

Abstract: A hospital bed supported on a wheeled base, and a ventilator supported on a wheeled cart and docked to the base of the bed, the combination of ventilator and bed capable of being rolled as a single unit. The ventilator cart includes a wheeled base, and supports connected to the base for supporting a ventilator, with the supports providing for selective raising and lowering of the ventilator. The hospital bed base is wheeled and has a generally Y-shaped base frame. The outspread arms of the Y-shaped base frame receive the ventilator cart so that the two may be docked together. The ventilator when docked to the hospital bed base falls within the footprint of the bed as projected downwardly onto the floor. A latch secures the ventilator to the bed base. A disabling switch disables the high/low function of the bed preventing the bed from being lowered downwardly onto the ventilator. A power supply mounted to the bed base provides for uninterrupted operation of the ventilator.

Abstract: A hospital bed supported on a wheeled base, and a ventilator supported on a wheeled cart and docked to the base of the bed, the combination of ventilator and bed capable of being rolled as a single unit. The ventilator cart includes a wheeled base, and supports connected to the base for supporting a ventilator, with the supports providing for selective raising and lowering of the ventilator. The hospital bed base is wheeled and has a generally Y-shaped base frame. The outspread arms of the Y-shaped base frame receives the ventilator cart so that the two may be docked together. The ventilator when docked to the hospital bed base falls within the footprint of the bed as projected downwardly onto the floor. A latch secures the ventilator to the bed base. A disabling switch disables the high/low function of the bed preventing the bed from being lowered downwardly onto the ventilator. A power supply mounted to the bed base provides for uninterrupted operation of the ventilator.

Abstract: Apparatus for motorized transport of the hospital bed and care cart docks to the head end of the bed and has a drive wheel, a motor propelling the drive wheel, a joy stick type potentiometer for controlling the speed and direction of the drive wheel and handles for grasping the apparatus and maneuvering the apparatus and the hospital bed. Gas springs are actuated by the bed when the motorized transport apparatus and bed are docked together for exerting a downward force on the drive wheel to reduce the tendency of the drive wheel to slip. The apparatus falls within the footprint of the bed.

Abstract: A bed transporting apparatus comprised of a lower telescopic movable frame supported on unidirectional casters. A vertical frame is secured to the lower movable frame and has a vertically displaceable bed supporting frame guidingly secured thereto. An hydraulic piston displaces the bed supporting frame in a vertical plane. The piston is operated by a hydraulic oil pumping lever and a valve controls the operation of the piston. The bed supporting displaceable frame has lower bed support arms to supportingly engage a side member of a bed and is further provided with an upper retractable guided connecting strap which is engageable with an opposed side member of the bed. The strap is wound about a drum which, when actuated, causes the bed to tilt along its side against the bed supporting frame and be held secured thereagainst. An extendible section of the lower telescopic frame is retracted to provide for the passage of the transporting apparatus and the bed held thereon through door openings.

Abstract: An undercarriage system apparatus is provided for supporting and transporting a fluidized patient support system above and across a floor. The apparpatus includes a base frame for carrying the fluidized patient support system, a plurality of heavy duty casters, and a pair of disk springs disposed between each caster and the base frame. Each caster includes a central shaft, a shoulder portion disposed about the central shaft for carrying the load, a wheel carriage rotatably mounted via needle bearings to swivel about the central shaft, and a pair of caster wheels mounted side-by-side to rotate about the wheel carriage. The disk springs of each pair are disposed to contact at their outermost edges. Each dish spring desirably has a maximum load capacity rated at least 50% above the nominal load which the disk spring must carry. The base frame defines a sleeve for receiving each central shaft of each caster. An elongated slot is defined through each sleeve.

Abstract: A care cart and a hospital bed having mating bases to permit the care cart to nest with the hospital bed. The combination of cart and bed can be rolled from place to place to transport the patient and the cart can be removed from the bed while maintaining the life support systems connected to the patient while the patient is transferred to another patient support.

Abstract: Disclosed is a nestable bed. The bed includes a rectangular frame adapted to receive a mattress. The frame has a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis. A pair of first legs are mounted to a first end of the frame with the legs lying in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A pair of second legs are mounted on opposite sides of the frame with the second legs lying in spaced apart planes perpendicular to the transverse axis of the frame. The first and second legs are skewed or canted such that substantially identical beds may be nested on top of each other with their sides and ends coincident. Rollers are mounted to the first legs such that the bed may be stood on end and rolled about.

Abstract: A frame for holding a body which lies thereon is pivoted on a transverse horizontal axis supported by a couple of vertical parallel uprights, on one of which a fixed electrical device having a rectilinear vertical stroke is provided. The remote controlled driver causes its push rod to move up and down, said push rod being connected with a slider that moves along the uprights.A connection rod is hinged to the slider at one end, and to the frame at the other end, so as to cause the rotation of the frame through an arch in clockwise or counterclockwise direction, depending on slider motion direction.

Abstract: A transport apparatus comprising a pair of substantially identical dolly devices for moving hospital beds and the like. Each dolly device comprises an elongated base plate having a pair of swivel mounted casters or wheels attached to the lower surface thereof and an attachment member formed on the elongated base plate configured to operatively engage and secure the hospital bed thereto.