Patent ID: 6594835
Filing Date: 2003-07-22
Classification: A47C,A61B,A61G,Y10S

Abstract:
Impact cushioning device for protecting a bed occupant from fall-related injuries comprising:a bed (2) having a frame portion, side rails (20) and a horizontal mattress portion; at least one pressure sensing means having a pressure switch (6) disposed on or about a side rail, said pressure sensing means being operable to generate a first signal when said occupant applies pressure to the pressure switch (61); at least one light generating means for generating a beam of light which extends above a side rail (20) from one longitudinal extension of the bed (2) to the other; at least one light beam sensing means (10) disposed on or about the frame portion and aligned to receive the beam of light, the light beam sensing means (10) being operable to generate a second signal when the occupant interrupts the beam of light; an electronics module means (12) for sensing and processing the first and second signals and for transmitting a third signal when either the first signal or the second signal is sensed; a cushion portion (8) stowed in relationship to the frame portion; a gas actuatable telescoping means (4) attached to the cushion portion (8), the telescoping means (4) disposed to displace the cushion portion (8); inflating means fluidly connected to the telescoping means (4) for providing gas under pressure to the telescoping means (4) to actuate the telescoping means (4); and a solenoid valve means (16) electrically connected to the electronics module means (12), the solenoid valve operable from a normally closed position to an open position to permit the flow of gas from the inflating means (14) to the telescoping means (4) when the third signal is received from the electronics module means (12).