Upper Body Portions Of User Supported By Adjustable Section Patents (Class 5/617)
  • Patent number: 7640608
    Abstract: A medical examination table which is movable between a lowered patient entry/exit position and a raised patient examination position. A scissor-lift assembly is provided to raise and lower the examination table. The examination table includes a drawer having a pivotal front panel which is adapted to support instruments or other items thereon when the drawer is folded to a downward position. The examination table further includes a storage pocket located beneath the backrest. The storage pocket and its contents are concealed when the backrest is lowered and are accessible when the backrest is inclined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Midmark Corporation
    Inventors: Arthur D. Smith, Bart L. Milbourn, Joseph P. Schlater, Leo R. Hanus, Richard L. Turner, Rainer B. Teufel, Jeff T. DeBord
  • Publication number: 20090313758
    Abstract: A hospital bed is disclosed. The bed includes at least one tiltable deck section, and a linkage assembly configured to facilitate tilting of the at least one deck section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventors: Douglas J. Menkedick, Eugene E. Osborne, Robert M. Zerhusen, David A. Albersmeyer, Roger S. Philbeck, Aziz Ali Bhai, Nicholas C. Batta, Terry L. Richter, Tom Riggs, Kenith W. Chambers, Steven J. Schwartz, Matthew R. Knue, Steve A. Dixon, Joshua W. Shenk, Brent Goodwin, Andrew F. Skinner, Gregory J. Figel, James R. Stolpmann, James K. Findlay, Glenn C. Suttman, Brian J. Hoffman, Irvin J. Vanderpohl, III, David W. Hornbach, Paul R. Weil, Kenneth L. Kramer, Jeffrey R. Welling, Eric R. Meyer, Jack Wilker, JR., David P. Lubbers, Roberta M. Murnyack, Cami S. Scheele
  • Publication number: 20090265853
    Abstract: Devices and methods of the present invention are directed to positioning a patient in a prone position that exposes the posterior thoracic lumbar spine during a surgical procedure, such as a laminectomy procedure. The device has at least three support members, with a first support member configured and adapted to support at least a portion of a patient's torso and the patient's hips; a second support member, generally contiguous with the first, configured and adapted to contact a patient's thighs and to position the patient's thighs in a desired angular position relative to the patient's hips and torso; and a third support member, generally contiguous with the second support member, adapted to support a patient's knees and lower legs and to position the patient's lower legs in a desired angular position relative to the patient's torso and thighs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: John A. MAXWELL
  • Publication number: 20090260160
    Abstract: The product demonstration system of the present invention is used to familiarize a person with a product. The product demonstration system includes an audio/visual component that is capable of delivering a recording, an adjustable support that is capable of supporting the person, and a control. The control is operably connected to the adjustable support and the audio/visual component to move the adjustable support and deliver the recording in a coordinated manner to highlight the product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Dag Landvik
  • Publication number: 20090260159
    Abstract: An emergency response treatment bed system. The emergency response beds may include a frame having a pair of opposing tubular stainless steel side supports and a pair of opposing tubular stainless steel end supports. The side supports and end supports are affixed each to the other by corner fixtures. A plurality of collapsible support legs are affixed to the frame. The support legs have an upper end and a lower end, and are adapted to support the frame above a selected substrate. A support deck is coupled to the frame. The support deck is adapted to support a patient body, and is provided with a liquid impervious, molded thermoplastic contaminant resistant cleanable surface. The support deck also has, above at least some of the support legs, a cutout portion defined by edgewalls, to provide access through the support deck to the support legs, so that multiple beds may be stacked one above the other, using support inserts between vertically adjacent support legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: John Buchanan
  • Publication number: 20090241263
    Abstract: A medical examination table is provided. The medical examination table comprises a base providing a storage area, a patient support movable independent of the base between a lowered position and a raised position, and a lift mechanism coupled to the patient support for moving the patient support between the lowered position and the raised position. The patient support comprises a backrest and a seat. Movement of the patient support independent or separately from the base and without interfering with the storage areas within the base may allow for the efficient use of the examination table as a storage area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: Jack A. DeBraal, Michael J. Marchant, Mark E. Jensen, Michael Bargiel, Michael F. Hoft, Richard Walters
  • Patent number: 7587770
    Abstract: The article of manufacture is a therapy table. The table has a head rest, arm rests and two cushions that are shaped similar to the human body. The head rest and arm rests are adjustable to fit a person either lying in a supine or prone position. The head rest and arm rests can also be adjusted to fit patients of different sizes. The table is designed so that its bed can go from a flat position to a dynamic convex position. An electronic linear actuator moves a lift cam which pushes on the center section of the table moving the table into a convex position which becomes rigid due to support from the curved surface of lift cam. This motion distracts the facet joints minimally which allows for a much easier and much more general repositioning of the vertebrae. The height of the table is adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventors: Richard E. Reser, Steve Corthell
  • Publication number: 20090211584
    Abstract: An adjustable personal treatment apparatus that is usable by women of all sizes to enable them to enjoy, without harm, the full healthful benefits of proper and necessary massage and therapy. More particularly, the apparatus permits the proper pressure to be applied to a female patient during massage, or therapeutic treatment, without causing discomfort and possible damage to breast tissue or breast implants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Rebecca Savich
  • Patent number: 7568247
    Abstract: A bariatric bed having extensible side portions and extensible end portions which facilitate an expansion of the overall width and length of the bed to comfortably support an obese patient, the side portions capable of being retracted to reduce the overall width of the bed to fit through a standard hospital door opening, the bed including a plurality of load cells which transmit a signal to a weigh scale to provide a readout of the weight of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Gendron, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederic W. Strobel, Steven W. Cotter
  • Patent number: 7562458
    Abstract: The invention relates to a form of a passive or active annunciator that solves the problem of reminding a caregiver to reposition a patient at risk for aspiration usually located in an adjustable bed to some predetermined angular position. The annunciator may take the form of an inclinometer (100) that measures the angle of the bed (160) relative to a local gravity reference or a goniometer that measures the angle between the horizontal (140) and elevated portions (130) of the bed. The invention reminds the caregiver of the patient at risk for aspiration to maintain or reestablish the elevation of the torso of the patient at risk for aspiration to at least 30 degrees up to 45 degrees above the local horizontal to prevent or reduce the incidence of aspiration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventors: Robert Louis Clark, Jr., Michael David Johnson
  • Patent number: 7559102
    Abstract: A sliding subframe mounted to the derriere-supporting section of an articulating bed is adapted to translate the rotational axis of the torso-supporting section of the bed toward the headframe as the torso-supporting section is raised to an inclined position, and back toward the footboard as the torso-supporting section is lowered to a level position. This mechanism reduces compression of the lumbo-sacral area of the patient during bed articulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Bedlab, LLC
    Inventors: Eduardo Rene Benzo, Rodolfo W. Ferraresi, Mario Cesar Eleonori
  • Patent number: 7552733
    Abstract: An adjustable treatment support comprises at least three generally planar rigid support members mountable to one another in different angular orientations to provide a support structure having a variety of configurations. Individual support members are mountable to one another to provide a support structure suitable for use with a bed to provide an extending head support for massage and other types of body work. Individual support members may also be configured to provide a support structure suitable for use with a subject in a seated position at a chair adjacent a table. The individual support members are collapsible or detachable for convenient storage and transport. Kits comprising a plurality of support members, a bag for storing and transporting them, instructional materials, music and other relaxation accessories are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Schubert, III
  • Patent number: 7551954
    Abstract: A fixture such as a local receiver coil is secured to the patient support of a magnetic resonance imaging system so that the fixture remains in position relative to the support even when the support is in a vertical orientation. The positioning apparatus is arranged to allow adjustment of the fixture position, but to limit such adjustment so that the fixture cannot interfere with the poles or other elements defining the patient-receiving gap of the magnet during movement of the patient support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Fonar Corporation
    Inventors: Charles A. Green, William H. Wahl, Arto Cinoglu
  • Publication number: 20090144903
    Abstract: A mattress assembly that includes a lower portion for support of a patient's legs, an upper portion for the support of the patient's torso, and an evacuation assembly. The upper portion including an enclosure defining an interior space and a compressible material within the interior space. The evacuation assembly including a vacuum pump communicating with the interior space and operable to evacuate the interior space and compress the compressible material such that the upper portion of the mattress supporting the patient's torso is lowered with respect to the lower portion of the mattress supporting the patient's legs, and such that the upper portion of the mattress becomes stiffer to facilitate CPR on the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventors: Andrew B. Delvaux, Joshua J. Dykla, Christopher J. Rivet, Matthew T. Trombley, Ryan J. Gilbert, Kristin Cauley, Kyle J. Marsh, Dennis Jensen
  • Publication number: 20090139030
    Abstract: A patient alignment device includes a table and a rotatable member positioned to rotate relative to the table. The rotatable member may be a head-support plate or a board which supports substantially all of a patient's body. A motor moves the board or plate so as to align the patient's body, or a part of the body, in a desired direction. The board may be formed in two segments, the segments being selectively connectable to each other, the segments also being selectively connectable to the table by pins, at various possible pivot points. Positioning of the pins determines the mode of rotation of the board. The invention allows an operator to align the patient's body with precision, by remote control, and without interrupting the medical procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicants: CYBERKNIFE CENTER OF PHILADELPHIA, LLC, Jun Yang
    Inventors: Jun Yang, Jing Feng
  • Publication number: 20090139029
    Abstract: An adjustable bed frame assembly includes a center frame comprising two substantially parallel side frame members connected by two substantially parallel connector frame members, a forward connector frame member and a rear connector frame member, wherein the two connector frame members are located within approximately a center one-third of the length of the side frame members. The adjustable bed frame assembly also includes a base frame that includes a plurality of legs for mounting on a floor is rigidly affixed to the center frame such that the center frame does not move with respect to the base frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Martin B. Rawls-Meehan
  • Patent number: 7540048
    Abstract: A support base for a bed mattress having at least two planar portions with at least one rotatable planar portion able to rotate relative an adjacent planar portion with a planar flexible continuous mattress able to extend over both the rotatable planar portion and the adjacent planar portion, and the support base further including an adjustable support means at least partially mounted on the rotatable planar portion and selectively able to adjust a portion of the mattress resting on the rotatable planar portion out of the plane of extension of the adjacent remainder of the mattress wherein the support base allows for adjustment from a continuous linear formation to a backrest formation with the adjustable support means providing localized support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventor: Mario Cladinoro Piraino
  • Publication number: 20090126116
    Abstract: A surgery table utilizing first and second sections which are hingedly attached to one another. First and second sections are also connected to supports apart from the hinged portion. An elevator moves one of the sections upwardly and downwardly at the support. The resultant position of the frame formed by the first and second sections may take the configuration of a flat surface or an upwardly or downwardly oriented “vee”.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventors: Steve Lamb, Mark Stanley, Michael Demaria
  • Patent number: 7512998
    Abstract: A wheelchair and an examination table is provided wherein there is provided a connector or connector assembly for connecting the wheelchair to the examination table. Once connected to the examination table, the wheelchair and patient sitting therein can be elevated, after which side frames of the wheelchair can be removed in order to facilitate examination of the patient. In addition, once elevated and the side frames removed, with the aid of a movable back that forms a part of the examination table, the back of the wheelchair can be reclined or positioned in various positions to facilitate examination and procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Martin Manufacturing Company, LLC
    Inventors: Willis E. Martin, Alexander Bradford Earle, Stanley A. Brantley, Jr., Junius Warren White, Shawn Lane, Deepak Devasagayam
  • Patent number: 7513000
    Abstract: A medical examination table is provided. The medical examination table comprises a base providing a storage area, a patient support movable independent of the base between a lowered position and a raised position, and a lift mechanism coupled to the patient support for moving the patient support between the lowered position and the raised position. The patient support comprises a backrest and a seat. Movement of the patient support independent or separately from the base and without interfering with the storage areas within the base may allow for the efficient use of the examination table as a storage area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: The Brewer Company, LLC
    Inventors: Jack A. DeBraal, Michael J. Marchant, Mark E. Jensen, Michael Bargiel, Michael F. Hoft, Richard Walters
  • Publication number: 20090044339
    Abstract: A patient support apparatus, such as a bed, stretcher, or the like, includes a support deck with a head section pivotable between a generally flat orientation and a raised orientation. As the head section pivots from the flat orientation to an intermediate orientation, the pivot axis of the head section remains generally stationary. As the head section pivots from the intermediate orientation to the raised orientation, the pivot axis of the head section moves. The support deck may include an intermediate section attached to the head section wherein a foot end of the intermediate section moves linearly in a horizontal plane as the head section pivots from the intermediate orientation toward the raised orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: STRYKER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Marco Morin, Sebastien Viger, Jonathan DesRochers, Luc Petitpas, Steve Bolduc
  • Patent number: 7487562
    Abstract: A patient support apparatus includes a frame, a head section coupled to the frame and movable relative to the frame between first and second angular positions, and a sensor operable to determine an angular position of the head section. The apparatus also has an alarm that is activated if the angular position of the head section is not sufficiently large enough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael M. Frondorf, Bradley T. Wilson, Jacqueline A. Robertson, Michael P. Boland
  • Publication number: 20090031498
    Abstract: A patient support apparatus, such as a bed, stretcher, or the like, includes a support deck having a plurality of pivotable sections adapted to support a patient thereon. A head section of the support deck generally supports a patient's torso and is movable between a generally horizontal orientation and a raised orientation. A CPR drop assembly allows the head section to be pivoted relatively quickly to the horizontal orientation in order to allow CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) to be administered to the patient. The drop assembly may include a foot pedal having both a mechanical and electrical link to an actuator. The drop assembly may also be configured to operate in different manners depending upon the angular orientation of the head section at the time the drop assembly is initially activated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Applicant: STRYKER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jean-Francois Girard, Jean Bizouard, Marco Morin
  • Publication number: 20090013470
    Abstract: A patient support surface including a cover defining an interior region, a layer of three dimensional material, located at the interior region, and an air circulation device disposed adjacent the layer of three dimensional material. The patient support surface includes at least one of a percussion device and a vibration device, located at the interior region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventors: Sandy M. Richards, Christopher R. O'Keefe, Bradley T. Wilson, Kenith W. Chambers, Mayur Yermaneni, Gregory W. Branson, Michael Z. Sleva, Karen M. Gove, Andrew F. Skinner, Stephen R. Schulte, Todd P. O'Neal, Rachel Hopkins King, Teresa M. Mirabella, Paula M. Cooper
  • Patent number: 7472442
    Abstract: An adjustable bed including a stationary frame is supported above a floor. An articulated deck comprising head, seat, leg and foot deck boards hingedly joined together is spaced above the frame with connectors. The connectors include generally inverted U-shaped tubes pivotally secured to the frame and secured to the deck boards. A gas spring is operatively coupled to the head deck board and pivotally secured to the frame. Activation of the gas spring in cooperation with the operator moves the deck boards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: L&P Property Management Company
    Inventor: Niels S. Mossbeck
  • Patent number: 7469433
    Abstract: A patient support including a frame and a patient support portion supported by the frame. The patient support includes a release mechanism configured to move a portion of the patient support from a raised position to a lowered position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John W. Ruehl, Jeffrey R. Welling, Brian Wiggins, Matthew W. Weismiller, Sandy Richards, Brent Goodwin
  • Patent number: 7464419
    Abstract: A wheelchair and an examination table is provided wherein there is provided a connector or connector assembly for connecting the wheelchair to the examination table. Once connected to the examination table, the wheelchair and patient sitting therein can be elevated, after which side frames of the wheelchair can be removed in order to facilitate examination of the patient. In addition, once elevated and the side frames removed, with the aid of a movable back that forms a part of the examination table, the back of the wheelchair can be reclined or positioned in various positions to facilitate examination and procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Martin Manufacturing Company, LLC
    Inventors: Willis E. Martin, Alexander Bradford Earle, Stanley A. Brantley, Jr., Junius Warren White, Shawn Lane, Deepak Devasagayam
  • Patent number: 7461420
    Abstract: Disclosed is an articulated bed has a stationary frame and a plurality of mattress support sections defining a mattress support area, the support sections including: a left section, a right section, a head section and a leg section. Each of the left, right, head and leg sections are hingedly movable, thereby enabling a patient to turn the body to the left or right and to sit up or lift the legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Inventor: Willie Kim
  • Publication number: 20080289107
    Abstract: A bariatric hospital bed with full feature capability to enhance the care and treatment of bariatric patients. Among the features are fully adjustable and retractable siderails, bed raise-and-lower features, head-up and leg-down features for converting to a seated position, as well as Trendelenburg and reverse-Trendelenburg features. An integral scale assembly and radioluscent capabilities with a built'in X-ray tray are also provided together with redundant, easy-access controls in a pendant as well as in both siderails. An improved footboard is also provided for use as both a foot-rest and a step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Applicant: KCI LICENSING, INC.
    Inventor: John H. Vrzalik
  • Patent number: 7448100
    Abstract: A motorized bed includes a base frame, a linking frame movably mounted on the base frame, a first support frame pivotally mounted on the linking frame, two first links each pivotally mounted between the base frame and the first support frame, a second support frame pivotally mounted on the linking frame, a lift frame pivotally mounted on the second support frame, two second links each pivotally mounted between the linking frame and the lift frame, and a cushion mounted on the linking frame. Thus, when the motorized bed is folded, the front portion of the cushion is movable forward to get closer to the cabinet, so that a user can use the cabinet easily and conveniently, thereby facilitating the user taking items placed on the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Ruoey Lung Enterprise Corp.
    Inventor: Lung-Tan Shih
  • Patent number: 7441291
    Abstract: A profiling bed or similar support surface having a back section, seat section, thigh and calf section convertible to a chair configuration. The back section is mounted on an angled slide to retract as it is rotated. The angle of the slide also provides upward lift of the back section as it is retracted and rotated. This combination of movements mimics the way a person's tissues stretch when they move to a sitting position, reducing pressure and shear. At the same time, the thigh section can be rotated to an incline and the calf section either raised into a horizontal configuration or lowered to a chair configuration during movement of the thigh section. In another embodiment the thigh section is also mounted on a slide to retract towards the foot end as it is rotated to an incline, providing reduction of abdominal strain and increased comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Huntleigh Technology Limited
    Inventors: Stephen Hayes, Stephen Hollyoak
  • Patent number: 7428761
    Abstract: Adjustable chair for medical and paramedical diagnosis and treatment, comprising a pillar, a seat, a chair back, a support for the lower legs and if appropriate a head rest, the height of the pillar being adjustable and the remainder of the parts mentioned being adjustable with respect to one another. The chair back, the seat and the support for the lower legs are adjustable into a fully extended (bed) position. Also an ergonomic chair, particularly an automobile chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Inventors: Paul Arthur Engels, Johannes Henricus Maria de Kroon, Gaston Lionel van Amerongen
  • Patent number: 7412735
    Abstract: A patient support apparatus includes a base, a litter frame, and an elevation mechanism interconnecting the base to the litter frame and being configured to effect changes in elevation of the litter frame relative to the base. The elevation mechanism includes a pair of hydraulic actuators, each actuator covered by a telescoping shroud. The telescoping shroud is connected to the base and to the litter frame by a number of biased catches. The litter frame includes a pair of laterally spaced and longitudinally extending support rails and a plurality of laterally extending support rails interconnecting the longitudinally extending support rails so that the litter frame has a rectangular configuration. The litter frame includes a thigh section configured to be raised and lowered by use of one of a manually pumped hydraulic actuator or a gas-spring assisted lever actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Richard L. McDaniel, Jeffrey C. Shiery, Kevin Patmore, William D. Childs, Michael J. Petrowski
  • Patent number: 7406730
    Abstract: An examination and treatment table having a base (1) adapted to lift and lower a table (2) attached thereto, the table comprises a seat cushion (4) and a back cushion (3), which are individually movable. The table (2) is only attached at one side to the base (1) by means of a pivot pin (12) and that the seat cushion (4) and the back cushion (3), respectively, has a suspending frame (29, 30) each connected to the pivot pin (12) and extending along, at least partially, one side of the cushion (3, 4), which is the same side as the pivot pin (12) is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Stille-Sonesta AB
    Inventor: Christer Sundstrom
  • Publication number: 20080178388
    Abstract: An adjustable wallhugger bed that allows the user to lower the users thighs and calves into a generally downward angle, which allows for greater comfort, as well as improved utility of the bed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: FERDINAND SCHERMEL
  • Publication number: 20080148485
    Abstract: A treatment bed has two lifting motors connected in parallel mechanically in the height-adjustable lifter. In order to load the lifting motors evenly and avoid torsions in the lifter, a balancing circuit that measures the supply currents of the lifting motors is provided. If a difference is determined, then the respective current is briefly interrupted several times until the magnitudes of the currents approach one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2006
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventor: Hans-Peter Barthelt
  • Patent number: 7389554
    Abstract: A high-profile air sleep system having a pair of air posturizing sleep surfaces which may be individually inclined and air adjusted comprises an air posturing module having an outer module mattress case. A first case section extends medially along a length of said mattress case to define a first movable posturing section, and a second case section extends along a length of said mattress case to define a second movable posturing section. A third fixed module case section is included in said mattress case below the first and second posturing sections. A first air chamber is carried in the first and third case sections, and a second air chamber is carried in the second and third module sections to provide first and second posturizing module sections with individually elevatable posturizing sleep surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Comfortaire Corporation
    Inventor: Eric S. Rose
  • Patent number: 7386901
    Abstract: Modular system for assembling a motorized adjustable support apparatus for the upholstery of a piece of furniture for one of sitting and lying includes a first support element including a first longitudinal rail assembly, and a second support element including a second longitudinal rail assembly. The first and second longitudinal rail assemblies are detachably connected by a connecting element to form a base of the support apparatus, in use. The assembled adjustable support apparatus includes the two support elements adjustable relative to one another for supporting the upholstery. A connecting shaft is provided for transmitting the rotation of a first pivot shaft connected to the first rail assembly to a third pivot shaft connected to the second rail assembly. Ends of the connecting shaft are detachably insertable into recesses defined in the first and third pivot shafts, and are securable against rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Cimosys AG
    Inventors: Eckhart Dewert, Johannes Schneider
  • Publication number: 20080127420
    Abstract: A leisure lounger includes a rack, a upper mattress and a lower mattress. The lower and upper mattresses straddle the top of the rack in a horizontal manner. The rack has a horizontal pivotal bar running through two lugs on the left side and right side of the bottom of the upper mattress. A lifting unit is provided that has an extensible strut on the top. The extensible strut has a top portion hinged on a yoke located on the bottom of the upper mattress close to the juncture of the upper and lower mattresses. The extensible strut can be retracted to move the upper mattress in a reclined manner, and the lower mattress adjacent to the upper mattress sinks in an inclined manner at a selected angle. Therefore a user can sit on the lower mattress in a reclined manner with the hip retained without slipping forwards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventor: W-Chin Yang
  • Patent number: 7346945
    Abstract: A bariatric treatment system providing a comprehensive array of therapeutic services for the morbidly obese patient is disclosed. The treatment system generally comprises a stable bed frame upon which is mounted a low air loss therapeutic mattress system. Integrated hardware and software controls provide such therapies as pulsation, percussion, rotation, cardiac chair and Trendelenburg. Means are disclosed whereby the bariatric patient may safely and comfortably enter and exit the bed with relative ease. The bed is adaptable for transport within a hospital, including such features as a TRANSPORT MODE wherein the bed's lateral axis is minimized and battery backup to maintain necessary therapies during patient transport. A plurality of control means are disclosed for simplification of caregiver workload and ease of patient utilization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce Phillips, John H. Vrzalik, Alan Bartlett, Felipe Gonzalez, Glenn C. Stroh, Michael Stenberg, Daniel A. Woehr, Dan G. Dimitriu
  • Patent number: 7346946
    Abstract: A bed having a bendable portion between a back region and waist region and/or a waist region and leg region. The bendable portion is formed of side by side bars disposed generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bed and bendably connected together to allow the whole extent of the connecting bars to be shortened, extended, and curved. The bars are connected by protrusions on one bar extending into recesses of an adjacent bar. Side by side bars can be adjusted in their intervals and can be rotated in one direction up to a predetermined angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Paramount Bed Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 7325265
    Abstract: A bed including an articulation system is provided. The bed includes a frame and an actuator coupled to the frame. The bed further includes an arcuate member and a plurality of deck sections. The arcuate member is coupled to the actuator and one of the plurality of deck sections. The actuator operates to move the arcuate member to rotate the thigh section around a natural hip pivot point of a person positioned on the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: David W. Hornbach, Gregory W. Branson, Virgil J. Niese, Rachel H. King, Francis C. Ganance
  • Patent number: 7325261
    Abstract: A bed having a bed support and a bed fitting, the bed including: a bed frame, wherein the bed frame is equipped with at least one lying surface element and the lying surface element includes a plurality of spring elastic elements on a mattress side, wherein the spring elastic elements are arranged on the lying surface element in an interchangeable manner and the lying surface element is arranged on the bed frame in an interchangeable manner. The lying surface elements comprise ventilation recess having peripheral fluid retentation collars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Hermann Bock GmbH
    Inventor: Ernst Bock
  • Patent number: 7318625
    Abstract: A reclining element includes a pivotal backrest, a headrest, which is coupled in an articulated manner thereto, and optionally a footrest. These pivotal parts can be displaced by an electromotive adjusting device. The reclining element is so configured as to eliminate the need for the link lever fastened to the pivot shaft, whereby the forces required for adjusting can be transmitted by an appropriate kinematic system to the footrest or backrest. In order to raise the backrest, an articulated lever (20) is used, which is provided in the form of a toggle lever and which is connected to the adjusting element. A lever (20a) of the articulated lever (20) is coupled to the adjusting element (18). The other lever (20b) is coupled to the backrest (11) so that when the adjusting element travels out of the end position, the joint (21) executes a guided linear movement and a rotational movement that leads to a blocking of the articulated lever (20) in a particular blocking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Dewert Antriebs- und Systemtechnik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Andreas Roither
  • Patent number: 7240385
    Abstract: A device for positioning between a box spring and a mattress for selectively raising at least a portion of the mattress has a base frame secured to the box spring or box spring frame. A mattress supporting frame is pivotally coupled to the base frame. A leveraging arm with a roller bearing is pivotally coupled to the base frame. A linear actuator having a electric motor and a displaceable shaft is pivotally coupled to the leveraging arm and extension of the shaft pivots the leveraging arm upwardly, raising the roller bearing against a cross member of the mattress supporting frame to lift a portion of the mattress. Mattress restraining members prevent the mattress from shifting as the mattress is raised. The base frame is adapted to nest within the mattress supporting frame when the device is in a lowered position to minimize the vertical space required for the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: Arnold Benjamin Brown
  • Patent number: 7237286
    Abstract: An articulated bed has a stationary frame and a plurality of mattress support sections defining a mattress support area, the support sections including: a left section, a right section, a head section and a foot section. The left and right sections are hingably interleaved so that by raising either one, a patient may be rolled over or moved laterally. A plurality of lift arms and lift drivers are engaged with the stationary frame for moving each of the support sections between a horizontal position and an elevated position. The sections may be elevated individually or in concert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Willie W. Kim
  • Patent number: 7237288
    Abstract: A patient support apparatus which includes a litter frame having a head end and a foot end and a pair of laterally spaced, longitudinally extending support rails. A seat section which includes a seat frame is secured to the support rails. A first head section which includes a first frame is movably supported on the support rails between a first horizontal position and a second position wherein a head end of the first frame is elevated above a foot end of the first frame. The foot end of the first head section is always oriented on the litter frame immediately adjacent a head end of the seat frame. A second head section is provided on the litter frame and is separate from the first head section. The second head section includes a second frame movably supported on the support rails between a first horizontal position and a second position wherein a head end of the second frame is elevated above a foot end of the second frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Guy Lemire, Marco Morin, Richard Pare
  • Patent number: 7165277
    Abstract: An adjustable bed that enables a Gatch mechanism to be operated in an excellent fashion to match the flexing of a care recipient's body, and that is, moreover, useable as a superior low platform bed for care recipients. To this end, a parallel link mechanism having a pair of perpendicular arms is provided in the adjustable bed as part of a sitting-up mechanism, and by always keeping these arms in a perpendicular position, the sitting-up mechanism is operated with a position removed from the surface of a lower-back board by a prescribed interval as an imaginary rotation center when the bed is driven. This prevents any slippage of the care recipient's body in relation to the platform surface, thereby suppressing the occurrence of bedsores and realizing a natural sitting-up action that takes account of the care recipient's body movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenji Taguchi, Masashi Morikawa
  • Patent number: 7146662
    Abstract: A self-leveling bed support frame provides an automatically-controlled level sleeping surface in the sleeper cab of a semi-trailer rig. The self-leveling bed support frame is comprised first of a rectangular lower frame with four pneumatic actuators in each corner. A rectangular upper frame is above the lower frame and engages at its corners with the pneumatic actuators. An automatic control system operates the four pneumatic actuators to maintain a level upper frame by utilizing two pair of mercury switches disposed on two independent control axes. Each pair of mercury switches control the positioning of a pair of the pneumatic actuators, disposed at either end of a diagonal across the upper frame. An adjustable seat back assembly is also provided which can elevate one end of a mattress on the upper frame, using a pair of scissor jack mechanisms, which provide fine control when utilized with a pneumatically controlled actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Inventors: Michael H Pollard, Michael H Pollard, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7134156
    Abstract: An adjustable bed including a stationary frame is supported above a floor. An articulated deck comprising head, seat, leg and foot deck boards hingedly joined together is spaced above the frame with connectors. The connectors include generally inverted U-shaped tubes pivotally secured to the frame and secured to the deck boards. A gas spring is operatively coupled to the head deck board and pivotally secured to the frame. Activation of the gas spring in cooperation with the operator moves the deck boards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: L&P Property Management Company
    Inventor: Niels S. Mossbeck