Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for monitoring patient orientation, direction, altitude and location to determine the need for turns as well as to detect impending or actual bed exits or falls. A patient-worn sensor communicates with at least one host server through a mesh network of relay antennae to provide data representative of various patient characteristics. The sensor comprises one or more of an accelerometer, a magnetometer and an altimeter, along with optional other sensors. Various user interfaces are provided for managing patient care using the information developed by algorithms processed at the server based on data received from the patient sensors.

Abstract: An airbed system is provided. The airbed system includes: an air mattress having at least one air mattress chamber; a boundary-layer pump connected to the at least one air mattress, configured to fill the at least one air mattress with gas; and a control unit, configured to receive user input corresponding to increasing or decreasing the pressure in the at least one air mattress chamber and to control the boundary-layer pump based on the received user input. The boundary-layer pump includes: a pressure recovery chamber housing including a pressure recovery chamber, a pump inlet, and a pump outlet; a plurality of disks within the pressure recovery chamber; and a motor attached to the plurality of disks, configured to rotate the plurality of disks so as to expel gas passing through the pump inlet radially outwards along the disks and out through the pump outlet.

Abstract: Efficient systems and methods for inflating, deflating, or simultaneously inflating and deflating air mattress chambers using various pump and pump housing configurations are provided. Examples of the various pump and pump housing configurations include: boundary-layer pumps having single disk array or multiple disk array layouts, different disk geometries, different pressure recovery chamber geometries, adjustable components for switching between filling and powered dumping operations, and reversible and non-reversible motors; and pump housings having one or more dump channels for manifold-driven powered dumping, multiple sides or stages for pressure and/or flow compounding, various manifold chamber configurations for robust connectivity with air mattresses having multiple chambers, and various valve configurations for flexible control over filling, powered dumping, and simultaneous filling and powered dumping operations.

Abstract: A positioning mechanism of a bed is disclosed. In one such embodiment, a bed can comprise an undercarriage frame, a patient surface frame, a plurality of lifters, and at least one load cell in communication with the patient surface frame. Such a load cell can be adapted to communicate a signal associated with a force exerted from the patient surface frame. The force exerted from the patient surface frame is perpendicular to the load cell when the patient surface frame is oblique to the undercarriage frame.

Abstract: A cradle type bed for immobile patients, comprising a bed frame supporting a curved center portion being able to be tilted around the longitudinal axis of a supine patient and its center of gravity in order to relief constant pressure points between the skin and a mattress.

Abstract: A powered rocking bed, as disclosed, comprises a longitudinal push-pull rod medially connected to a powered driver, the rod configured to provide an oscillating push-pull longitudinal force on a first and second distal end about an axis there between and a plurality of upper and lower rollers disposed adjacent each distal end of the longitudinal push-pull rod.

Abstract: A turning platform having longitudinally extending side portions hinged to a central portion and hydraulic, or pneumatic, expansion means beneath each side portion operated by control means to raise and lower said side portions by rotating them about the hinges in a predetermined sequence.

Abstract: A powered rocking bed, as disclosed, comprises a longitudinal push-pull rod medially connected to a powered driver, the rod configured to provide an oscillating push-pull longitudinal force on a first and second distal end about an axis there between and a plurality of upper and lower rollers disposed adjacent each distal end of the longitudinal push-pull rod. The disclosed bedding device also includes a head and a foot longitudinal slide rail configured to receive a respective distal end of the push-pull rod, the slide rails configured to provide a sliding surface for the lower cam rollers and transfer the push-pull force into an oscillating head-foot vertical force at the upper rollers. The disclosure further includes a body support member medially connected to a pivot proximal the axis, the member configured to receive the oscillating head-foot vertical force from the upper rollers on a respective head and foot portion thereof.

Abstract: A variable posture bed includes a base rest located on a floor surface; a bed board arranged in a horizontal state above and opposite the base rest; a connection support portion disposed at the center of the base rest between the base rest and the bed board and that supports the bed board to be vertically movable in all directions around the center thereof; connection support portions disposed at four corners of the base rest and the bed board and that support the bed board to be vertically movable; and a drive control device that continuously moves the bed board in the vertical direction with a predetermined operation pattern and that limits the vertical movement of the head side of the bed board between the horizontal position and a predetermined upper position.

Abstract: An oscillating bed includes a stand or base with spaced apart, head and foot upright members. A body supporting member generally defines the length and width of the bed and has a foot end and a head end defining a longitudinal axis and longitudinally extending rims along opposed sides with a curved surface extending lateral to the longitudinal axis between the foot end and the head end. The head upright member is pivotally attached to the head end and the foot upright member is pivotally attached to the foot end and supports the body supporting member relative to the stand for oscillatory movement. A rotary motor and drive apparatus are coupled to the body supporting member and convert rotary motion of the motor to oscillatory movement of the body supporting member about the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A system and procedure for preventing and enhancing healing of Decubiti ulcers on patients, comprising the steps of placing the patient on a web adapted to support the patient, the web having a patient contacting portion and a non-patient contacting portion, the web having an opening through the web, positioned so that the opening surrounds the ulcer and prevents contact of the web with the ulcer, and using a web support system adapted to support the web by attachment only to the non-patient contacting portion, to solely support the web with a patient on it. The procedure may also include a step wherein a rocking device is used that acts through the web support system to selectively tilt the web and thereby to tilt the patient on the patient contact portion of the web, so that the pressure between the patient and the web is cyclically altered.

Abstract: A system and procedure for preventing and enhancing healing of Decubiti ulcers on patients, comprising the steps of placing the patient on a web adapted to support the patient, the web having a patient contacting portion and a non-patient contacting portion, the web having an opening through the web, positioned so that the opening surrounds the ulcer and prevents contact of the web with the ulcer, and using a web support system adapted to support the web by attachment only to the non-patient contacting portion, to solely support the web with a patient on it. The procedure may also include a step wherein a rocking device is used that acts through the web support system to selectively tilt the web and thereby to tilt the patient on the patient contact portion of the web, so that the pressure between the patient and the web is cyclically altered.

Abstract: An adjustable bed comprises a patient support structure supporting a patient support surface that comprises separately adjustable torso and hip support structures. Lifting mechanisms are provided to elevate the torso and hip support structures to substantially reduce pressure on the sacral area of a patient resting on the patient support surface.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a support assembly for supporting a baby, the support assembly including: a support element on which a baby is supported in use; a chassis operatively connected to the support element, the chassis including adjusting means to provide adjustment to both the height and attitude of the support element relative to the chassis.

Abstract: It is depicted a rotating therapeutic bed which comprises: a structural base including in turn wheels located on its lower portion to allow moving the bed from one place to another; a first removable stretcher with a first mattress to support the patient laying on his back; a second removable stretcher with a second mattress being placed in a reversed fashion and over the first stretcher and the patient, who is supported between the mattresses of both stretchers; the second stretcher supporting the patient laying face down when stretchers are rotated by 180° on a rotation axis crossing along the patient; front and rear stretcher mounting and rotation members rotationally mounted on the structural base; the first and second stretchers being longitudinally mounted with a vertical spacing between them in such stretcher mounting and rotation means, which allow also their rotation; and side barriers coupled to the longitudinal sides of the first stretcher, as well as of the second stretcher, such barriers covering

Abstract: An adjustable bed comprises a patient support structure supporting a patient support surface that comprises separately adjustable torso and hip support structures. Lifting mechanisms are provided to elevate the torso and hip support structures to substantially reduce pressure on the sacral area of a patient resting on the patient support surface.

Abstract: A variable motion rocking bed is provided that includes a first support structure having a first set of pins, a second support structure having a second set of pins, and a frame, the frame capable of being in a rocking motion with respect to the first support structure and the second support structure. The rocking bed further includes a first pair of linkage assemblies secured between the first support structure and the frame, a second pair of linkage assemblies secured between the second support structure and the frame and at least one adjusting mechanism coupled to each of the first pair of linkage assemblies and to each of the second pair of linkage assemblies.

Abstract: A bed comprising a supporting structure for a resting element that lies along a main longitudinal axis, wherein said resting element is associated with movement elements that are adapted to move on command the resting element with an oscillating motion about a tilting axis that is substantially parallel to the main longitudinal axis.

Abstract: An apparatus adjusts the pressures of a therapeutic mattress surface in accordance with the angular position of that surface. The apparatus comprises an angular position sensor and a rotation sensor which are housed together in an enclosure having a top surface in the form of a circular plate. The circular plate mounts either on the surface of the mattress or on the bottom of a bed frame supporting the mattress. The angular position and rotation sensors measure the horizontal plane referenced perpendicular to the direction of the force of gravity. The apparatus further comprises a controller blower valve assembly which processes data received from the angular position and rotation sensors to maintain, increase, or decrease the pressures within the mattress.

Abstract: A patient support system particularly suited for pediatric twin separation surgery. The patient support system includes a frame coupled to a swing circle that has a plurality of holes about the perimeter. A patient support structure is coupled to the swing circle, and disposed in a fixed relationship to the frame after rotation of the swing circle relative to the frame. A chain-and-sprocket mechanism is coupled to the frame and swing circle and positioned within the frame. At least one support leg depends from the frame, and may extend or retract relative to the frame. A drape cage is coupled to the frame for supporting a surgical drape thereon. At least one support wheel is connected to the support leg, and adapted to be interchangeably fixed in a static position and rotatable to move the frame. A substantially identical second frame may be connected in series to the frame for operative procedures.

Abstract: A therapeutic hospital bed including a base supporting a rotatable carriage. A patient support surface is supported by the rotatable carriage.

Abstract: A sick-bed includes a bedstead and a bed frame with an adjustable mattress support. The bed frame can be mounted cardanically on the bedstead for the decubitus prophylaxis and can be precessed by means of a drive unit. The bed frame is cardanically suspended on at least three, preferably four lifting drives, which are separate from each other and continuously height-adjustable. The lifting drives are controllable in such a manner that the central normal of the bed frame running through the center of gravity for the bed frame is allowed to carry out a continuous, damped and slow precession movement. Universal joints connecting the lifting drives to the bed frame can allow limited sliding movement therebetween in longitudinal and/or transverse directions.

Abstract: A variable motion rocking bed is provided that includes a first support structure including a first threaded rod having a first section threaded in a first direction and a second section threaded in a second direction, a second support structure including a second threaded rod having a first section threaded in a first direction and a second section threaded in a second direction, and a frame, the frame capable of being in a rocking motion with respect to the first support structure and the second support structure. The rocking bed further includes a first pair of linkage assemblies secured between the first support structure and the frame, and a second pair of linkage assemblies secured between the second support structure and the frame.

Abstract: A rocking assembly for a bed has a mattress frame, a base frame and a rocking driver. The base frame supports the mattress frame. The rocking driver is mounted on the base frame and has a motor, a flywheel and a connecting rod. The flywheel is rotated by the motor. The connecting rod is connected eccentrically to the flywheel and pivotally to the mattress frame. When the motor turns, the connecting rod rocks the mattress frame so a person lying on the bed rocks from side to side and pressure on individual parts of the person's body is alleviated so blood can circulate to the areas and bedsores will not develop.

Abstract: A bed (10) includes a base (12) and a frame assembly (14). A head end support assembly (16) and a foot end support assembly (18) are coupled between the base (12) and the frame assembly (14). The frame assembly (14) includes first and second side frame members (80, 82) located above the base (12). The bed (10) also includes a plurality of latch mechanisms (160) coupled to the first and second side frame members (80, 82), and a patient support surface (162) configured to be coupled to the first and second side frame members (80, 82) by the plurality of latch mechanisms (160). A rotational drive mechanism (130) is coupled to the foot end support assembly (18) to rotate the frame assembly (14) about its longitudinal axis to a prone position. A proning surface (250) is coupled to the frame assembly (14) to support a patient in the prone position.

Abstract: A medical sanitary multifunctional system bed is provided for nursing, having necessary functions that can be added optionally according to clinical conditions of users. The optional addition of functions allows the medical sanitary multifunctional system bed to perform necessary functions, on a case-by-case basis, thereby minimizing the economic burden imposed on patients. Ordinarily, the bed includes a lower capsule, supported by a metallic support frame, an upper capsule mounted on the lower capsule, a movable and rotatable portion, which is supported by the metallic support frame, and a plurality of removable cushions placed on the movable portion. On a optional basis, the bed may include a stool, a bathtub, a shower, and additional washers.

Abstract: To provide an adjustable bed that assists a user to turn comfortably in his or her sleep without mental stress. Once an automatic mode starts, measurement on the depth of sleep of the user lying on the bed is launched. The depth of sleep is measured by detecting biological information such as brain waves, heart rate, and respiratory rate of the user using electrode sensors or the like, and analyzing the biological information according to a polysomnography method or the like. If the depth of sleep is 0, i.e., the user is in REM sleep, and if one hour or more has passed since the measurement is launched or since an immediately preceding turn operation, a turn operation is performed to turn the user.

Abstract: A magnetic levitation bed is disclosed to include a bed frame, which is equipped with a plurality of permanent magnet arrays, a first cam-fitting mechanism, and a second cam-fitting mechanism, and a base, which is equipped with a power control box controllable by a remote controller, a plurality of electromagnet arrays arranged corresponding to the permanent magnet arrays and controllable by the control box to attract and repulse the permanent magnet arrays, a first low-speed motor controllable by the power control box to turn a first cam relative to the first cam-fitting mechanism and to further cause the bed frame to oscillate in transverse direction, a second low-speed motor controllable by the power control box to turn a second cam relative to the second cam-fitting mechanism and to further cause the bed frame to oscillate in longitudinal direction, and sensors for detecting oscillation of the bed frame and providing a signal indicative of the position change of the bed frame to a microprocessor for enabl

Abstract: A direct electrical signal and power interface is provided to the patient support platform of a therapeutic bed that allows for a complete rotation of the patient support platform in either direction. In one embodiment, an electrical signal and/or power cable is housed within a chain-like cable carrier that is disposed within an annular channel attached to the patient support platform. In another embodiment, a flexible ribbon cable is disposed within the annular channel. The cable carrier or ribbon cable is long enough to allow a full 360 degrees of rotation of the patient support platform in either direction from 0 degrees supine flat while maintaining a direct electrical signal or power connection. To ensure that the electrical signal and power connection is not articulated beyond its physical limit as a result of manually rotating the bed in the emergency backup mode, a mechanical stop is provided to limit rotation of the patient support platform to about 730 degrees.

Abstract: A therapeutic mattress system and bed are disclosed for providing a comprehensive system of pulmonary and skin care therapies for the critically ill, immobilized patient. The features provided include rotational therapy, percussion therapy and pulsation therapy on a critical care bed frame with a low air loss patient support, all of which are controlled with various types of feedback from particularized sensors in the bed.

Abstract: A therapeutic bed (1) comprises a patient support platform (7) rotatably mounted on a base frame (4) for rotation about a longitudinal pivot axis between a supine support position and a prone support position. The base frame (4) is in turn mounted on a wheeled chassis (2) by pivot linkages (5) which allow tilting and raising and lowering of the base frame (4) on the chassis (2). Drive interlocks prevent rotation of the patient support platform (7) unless side rails (25) are locked on the patient support platform (7) and patient support flaps (40, 41) extending between the side rails (25) are locked together to secure a patient on the patient support platform (7). Guides (51) are provided at each end of the patient support platform (7) at the longitudinal rotational axis to guide patient care lines between a patient on the patient support platform (7) and associated devices externally of the patient support platform (7).

Abstract: A bed comprises a bed support including a body portion and a support plate configured to be removably coupled to the body portion. The body portion includes a guide configured to operably couple with the support plate in order to guide the support plate in sliding movement into the body portion.

Abstract: A patient support apparatus including a first patient support configured to be rotated about a longitudinal axis. The first patient support illustratively includes an inflatable bladder. A backboard may be removably coupled to the patient support apparatus and is configured to facilitate transport of a patient to and from the patient support apparatus.

Abstract: A bed with adjustable positions comprises head, foot and central units. The head and foot units include respectively an upper and lower structure and a linear actuator for elevating or lowering the upper structure with respect to the lower structure. Two opposite upper structures can be elevated simultaneously or separately. The central unit is provided with a central platen to which a pair of side platens is hinged. A rotation subassembly is located in head and foot units respectively and is intended to turn the central unit, while an inclination subassembly is used to incline the side platens, so as to prevent the patient from sliding during rotation. A pneumatic bag subassembly is formed from upper and lower sections, which can be independently inflated or deflated. A reaction board, having a width slightly narrower than central platen and a length substantially equal to the upper section, is placed on the latter.

Abstract: A prone positioning therapeutic bed comprises a base frame, a patient support platform rotatably mounted on the base frame for rotational movement about a longitudinal rotational axis, a drive system for rotating the patient support platform on the base frame, and an upright end ring at the head of the bed with a central opening for routing patient care lines and a removable upper section for improved access to a patient's head. The patient support platform preferably has pivotally mounted side rails that fold underneath the patient support platform and straps with strap connectors that indicate whether the straps are sufficiently tensioned. A direct, wired electrical connection between the patient support platform and the base frame allows full rotation of the patient support platform in either direction. A manually operable lever disengages the patient support platform from the drive system to allow manual rotation of the patient support platform.

Abstract: A bed comprises a fluid supply and a bed support coupled to the fluid supply. A patient support surface is configured to couple to the bed support.

Abstract: An improved mounting apparatus for a lateral rotation therapeutic bed is provided that facilitates access to the patient and connection and disconnection of patient care lines to and from a patient on the bed. A therapeutic bed is described comprising a base frame, a patient support platform rotatably mounted on the base frame for rotational movement about a longitudinal rotational axis of the patient support platform, and a drive system for rotating the patient support platform on the base frame. An upright end ring at the head end of the bed is split into an upper section and a lower section. The upper section is removable from the lower section, allowing improved access to the head of the patient and to allow placement or removal of the patient from the bed by removal of patient care lines from the end ring without removing the patient care lines from the patient or the equipment to which the lines are attached.

Abstract: A mechanism to center a patient on a patient support platform of a therapeutic bed is provided comprising a threaded rod that has left-hand threads on one end and right-hand threads on the other; first and second mounts threadably engaged with the left-hand and right-hand threads, respectively, of the threaded rod; and first and second patient support accessories mounted to the first and second mounts, respectively. The rod, when rotated, is operable to move the first and second patient support accessories in opposite directions, either toward or away from the patient. In one embodiment, a manually operable handle is connected to the threaded rod for effecting rotation of the threaded rod to produce symmetric movement of the first and second patient support accessories. In another embodiment, a motor-driven actuator is operably connected to the threaded rod for effecting rotation of the threaded rod to produce symmetric movement of the first and second patient support accessories.

Abstract: A direct data and power interface is provided to the patient support platform of a therapeutic bed that allows for a complete rotation of the patient support platform in either direction. To ensure that the data and power interface is not articulated beyond its physical limit as a result of manually rotating the bed in the emergency backup mode, a mechanical stop is provided to limit rotation of the patient support platform to about 730 degrees. Sensors are provided to detect activation of the mechanical stop.

Abstract: A patient support includes a base, and a support assembly coupled to the base. A patient support surface is coupled to the support assembly. A plurality of siderails are coupled to the support assembly. Each siderail includes a frame member and a movable member coupled to the frame member, wherein the movable member is movable to a position directly above the patient support surface.

Abstract: A prone positioning therapeutic bed comprises a base frame and a patient support platform rotatably mounted on the base frame for rotational movement about a longitudinal rotational axis and a drive system for rotating the patient support platform on the base frame. A special head restraint apparatus maintains proper patient alignment during rotation. A weight monitoring system monitors a patient's weight over time. A touch screen user interface provides programmable therapy settings and displays statistics about past treatment. Circuitry is provided to minimize the risk that the failure of any single device or software program could endanger a patient. A “CPR” button is provided to arrest any program of therapy and return the patient support platform to a supine position.

Abstract: A bed (10) includes a base (12), and a support assembly (22) coupled to the base (12). The support assembly includes first and second support arms (42, 44) located above the base (12). The bed (10) also includes a plurality of latch mechanisms (70, 72, 74) coupled to the first and second support arms (42, 44), and a patient support surface (50) configured to be coupled to the first and second support arms (42, 44) by the plurality of latch mechanisms (70, 72, 74). The patient support surface (50) is removable from the first and second support arms (42, 44) to permit transfer of a patient to and from the bed (10) on the patient support surface (50).

Abstract: A patient interface system integral with a critical care bed for allowing the acquisition, analysis, display, and conveyance of patient-related data from a variety of transducers. The system is adapted to recognize and interpret each type of signal being received, despite the type and/or make of the particular transducers. The system is also adapted to simultaneously display data traces and representative readings from a variety of transducers simultaneously on a single screen detachably mounted to the bed. The display screen is pivotably mounted for ease of use and may be detached from the bed together with the main processor when the corresponding features are not desired. The bed is adapted with electronic connection sockets along each side of the patient surface to present convenient connections for patient transducer leads. The system has resident memory for storing data to enable trend analysis or downloading for patient data records.

Abstract: A prone positioning therapeutic bed comprises a base frame, a patient support platform rotatably mounted on the base frame for rotational movement about a longitudinal rotational axis, a drive system for rotating the patient support platform on the base frame, and an upright end ring at the head of the bed with a central opening for routing patient care lines and a removable upper section for improved access to a patient's head. The patient support platform preferably has pivotally mounted side rails that fold underneath the patient support platform and straps with strap connectors that indicate whether the straps are sufficiently tensioned. A direct, wired electrical connection between the patient support platform and the base frame allows full rotation of the patient support platform in either direction. A manually operable lever disengages the patient support platform from the drive system to allow manual rotation of the patient support platform.

Abstract: An arm 122 is secured on an upper end portion thereof to an output shaft 121 of a reduction gear 120 attached to a motor that is installed under a rest frame 115 on which a mattress is to be mounted. When rollers 123 provided on a lower end portion of the arm 122 are vertically guided along a vertical guide member 124 as the motor rotates forwardly and reversely, the arm 122 begins to swing right and left, thereby causing the rest frame 115 to rock quietly and gently about a rocking axis 115a. As a result of this construction, a rocking bed is provided, in which a motor is downsized and noise is reduced during the operation of a driving force transmission mechanism, and the rest frame for mounting a mattress rocks right and left properly with a simple construction.

Abstract: An apparatus adjusts the pressures of a therapeutic mattress surface in accordance with the angular position of that surface. The apparatus comprises an angular position sensor and a rotation sensor which are housed together in an enclosure having a top surface in the form of a circular plate. The circular plate mounts either on the surface of the mattress or on the bottom of a bed frame supporting the mattress. The angular position and rotation sensors measure the horizontal plane referenced perpendicular to the direction of the force of gravity. The apparatus further comprises a controller blower valve assembly which processes data received from the angular position and rotation sensors to maintain, increase, or decrease the pressures within the mattress.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for preventing bed sores in a bedridden patient. A low air loss bed is provided including a frame, a first set of substantially rectangular air bags for supporting a patient thereon mounted transversely on the frame, and a second set of substantially rectangular air bags for supporting a patient thereon mounted transversely on the frame, and all of the air bags are connected to a gas source. The conformation of the air bags is such that, when the first set of air bags is inflated, the patient supported thereon is moved toward the first side of the frame of the low air loss bed and, when the second set of air bags is inflated while the first set of ail bags is deflated, the patient is moved toward the second side of the low air loss bed. The conformation of the air bags also retains the patient on the top surface of the air bags when the patient is rolled in one direction or the other.

Abstract: The present invention is a mattress having a centrally located cut-out portion that has an insert that fits therein. The combination of the mattress and insert provides a flat surface on which a bed ridden person can lie. The insert is removable from the cut-out portion so that a bed pan may be placed therein. The cut-out portion is designed to support the bed pan, so that the bed pan is within the boundaries of the mattress. Once the bed pan is in position, the bed ridden person may comfortably perform their excretory functions while maintaining a certain degree of discreteness and dignity. Once these functions have been performed, the bed pan is removed and the insert is repositioned. The present invention also comprises a first fitted sheet and a second fitted sheet. The first fitted sheet surround the mattress and extends within the cut-out portion, while the second fitted sheet surrounds the insert.

Abstract: A process and an arrangement handles a person in a rocking movement on a couch relative a base by means of pressure medium driven actuating means in the couch. The couch is converted from a substantially planar or slightly bent starting position, with the person resting against the couch to a C-shaped holding position, bent about the longitudinal axis of the person. The person is rocked relative to the base in a rocking movement from side to side on the base maintained in aid C-shaped holding position.

Abstract: A therapeutic hospital bed (1) comprises a patient support platform (2) rotatably and pivotally secured within a main bed frame (3). The main bed frame (3) is supported on a base frame (5). An end board on the patient support platform (2) has an arcuate track (14) engaged by a drive belt (15) which is connected to a drive motor for oscillating the patient support platform (2) relative to the main bed frame (3). Opposite ends of the drive belt (15) are connected to disengagement arms (18, 25) which are pivotally interconnected to form a scissors mechanism. The arms (18, 25) are operable to tension or release the belt (15) to engage or disengage drive to the patient support platform (2). A spring (27) extends between the arms (18, 25) to bias the arms (18, 25) into a belt tensioning position. To disengage the drive for turning the patient support platform (2) manually, the arms (18, 25) are movable against spring bias to a disengaged position.