Patent Publication Number: US-7900302-B2

Title: Adjustable bed having snap-on actuator drive

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates generally to adjustable beds and, more particularly, to an adjustable bed having a linear actuator assembly for moving an adjustable portion of the deck of the bed, which linear actuator may be snap-fit onto predetermined elements of the adjustable bed. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     A well known type of bedding product comprises a motorized adjustable bed in which an articulated frame supports a mattress. These motorized adjustable beds have traditionally been used in hospitals but more and more are being installed and used in residential homes. Motorized adjustable beds have conventionally had an upper body support movable between an inclined position in which it supports the patient in a sitting position and a prone position in which the patient lies down in a generally horizontal position. In addition, a leg support is movable between positions and may be adjusted to a desired degree of inclination. An actuating mechanism, commonly two or more electric motors, raises and lowers the head and leg supports of the articulated bed frame. U.S. Pat. No. 5,640,730 discloses such an adjustable bed. 
     U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,499,162 and 6,640,365 disclose adjustable beds comprising a plurality of bed plates pivotally secured together for supporting a mattress. Connecting elements or links pivotally connect a base to the bed plates. A movable member slides along the base and is activated by a piston movable from inside a cylinder secured to the base. Activation of a power source such as an electric motor causes movement of the bed plates via movement of the sliding member. 
     One of the heaviest components of an adjustable bed is the actuator system for effecting movement of the adjustable bed. This actuator system is typically purchased by the manufacturer as a separate component of the knock-down adjustable bed assembly and secured to the remainder of the adjustable bed by the manufacturer using fasteners such as nuts, bolts, screws, fastening pins or other forms of conventional attachment devices. This step in the assembly of the adjustable bed may be labor intensive, time consuming and therefore expensive. Often skilled laborers are required for such assembly. 
     It has therefore been an objective of this invention to provide an actuator system which may be attached to an adjustable bed as simply as possible and with a minimum of component assembly parts. To that end, and in accordance with this invention, the motorized actuator of this invention may be snap-fit onto portions or elements of an adjustable bed, thereby enabling the actuator to be attached to the adjustable bed without any nuts, bolts, screws or other form of conventional attachment devices. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention comprises an adjustable bed having an adjustable deck for supporting a mattress. The adjustable bed is preferably powered by an electric motor driven linear actuator. However, any other drive assembly, such as a conventional electrical motor driven screw and nut actuator system may be used in accordance with the present invention. 
     The adjustable bed, in one embodiment, comprises a generally rectangular stationary base comprising a pair of opposed side rails, a head end rail and a foot end rail located at the head and foot ends of the adjustable bed, respectively. Supports extending downwardly from the head and foot end rails support the base a fixed distance above the floor or supporting surface. Although legs are preferable, other types of supports may be used to raise and/or maintain the stationary base above the supporting surface. 
     Each of the side rails of the base has a channel built therein. More particularly, each of the side rails of the stationary base has a “C-shaped” cross-sectional configuration which defines the channel. 
     This adjustable bed further comprises a frame spaced above the stationary base and movable relative to the stationary base. Such an adjustable bed is known in the art as a “wall hugger” adjustable bed. The frame includes a pair of side assemblies joined by transversely extending cross members. Each of the side assemblies of the frame comprises a generally “L-shaped” member comprising a vertically oriented leg portion and a horizontally oriented side portion. A support leg is secured to the horizontally oriented side portion of the generally “L-shaped” member so each side assemblies has two legs. In combination, each side assembly of the movable frame has two legs, each having a roller rotatably secured to the leg at the bottom thereof which travels or moves in one of the channels of one of the side rails of the stationary base. 
     The adjustable bed further comprises an articulated deck for supporting a mattress or similar product. The articulated deck comprises a head deck board, a seat deck board fixedly secured to the frame, a leg deck board and a foot deck board hingedly joined to each other. The articulated deck is movable between a horizontal position in which all of the deck boards are horizontal and coplanar and a fully inclined position in which the head, leg and foot boards are inclined and the seat deck board remains in its horizontal position and fixed to the movable frame. 
     The adjustable bed further comprises a pair of head links. Each head link is of a fixed length and is pivotally secured to one of the side rails of the stationary base at one end and pivotally secured to a bracket fixedly secured to the head deck board at its other end. These head links connect the base and the head deck board. 
     Similarly, a pair of leg links connect the base to the leg deck board. Each leg link is of a fixed length and is pivotally secured to one of the side rails of the stationary base at one end and pivotally secured to a bracket fixedly secured to the leg deck board at its other end. 
     A pair of foot links connect the movable frame to the foot deck board. Each foot link has an adjustable length but may be manually set to have a predetermined, fixed length. Each foot link is pivotally secured to one of the side rails of the movable frame at one end and pivotally secured to a bracket fixedly secured to the foot deck board at its other end. 
     A motorized actuator assembly is operatively coupled to the movable frame of the adjustable bed. The motorized actuator assembly functions to move the articulated deck between a first horizontal position in which all of the deck boards are co-planar in a horizontal position and a second fully inclined position in which the head deck board is inclined, the seat deck board generally horizontal, the leg and foot deck boards inclined. 
     The motorized actuator assembly comprises a motorized actuator secured at one end to one of the cross members of the frame by a first snap-fit connector. The motorized actuator includes a housing tube or cylinder in which moves a rotatable screw powered by a motor protected by a housing. The motorized actuator assembly further comprises a piston or extension tube movable relative to the housing tube, the extension tube being operatively coupled by a second snap-fit connector to a pin extending between a pair of link arms. These link arms are operatively coupled to a torque tube which is part of the movable frame. 
     A pair of operating arms are welded or otherwise secured to the torque tube, each of the operating arms having a roller at the end thereof for engaging the head deck board of the articulated deck and raising the head deck board. The linear actuator of the actuator assembly is powered by an electric motor. Activation of the electric motor extends the extension tube relative to the housing tube which, in turn, causes the torque tube to rotate which causes the operating arms to contact and raise the head deck board from its first horizontal position to its second inclined position. 
     Because the motorized actuator assembly, including the drive motor and linear actuator, are connected by snap-fit connectors to portions of the frame including a torque tube which affects inclination of the headrest portion of the bed, the motorized actuator assembly may be attached to the frame and through an appropriate linkage to the torque tube without any need for special tools or connection devices. 
     In operation, starting from the first position of the adjustable bed in which the articulated deck is generally horizontal, an operator activates the motorized actuator assembly in any known manner. The electric motor extends the extension tube relative to the housing tube which rotates the torque tube which, in turn, causes the operating arms of the actuator assembly to rotate or pivot about a horizontal axis. Movement of the operating arms causes the rollers at the ends of the operating arms to contact the head deck board to move the head deck board from its first horizontal position to its second inclined position. As the head deck board inclines, the seat deck board moves horizontally towards the head end of the bed with the frame in what is known in the industry as a wall hugger motion. As the seat deck board moves towards the head end of the bed, the leg deck board moves from its first horizontal position to its second inclined position. This movement of the leg deck board causes the foot deck board to incline, its foot edge moving towards the head end of the bed as the foot links pivot about horizontal pivot axes. 
     The configuration of this embodiment of adjustable bed allows a user to move an upper frame of the adjustable bed relative to a stationary base using rollers traveling in channels in the base. The adjustable bed enables the deck to move between a first horizontal or prone position to a second inclined position with the assistance of the motorized actuator assembly of the articulated bed. 
     To facilitate assembly of the bed, the motorized actuator assembly has snap-fit connectors attached to the linear actuator of the assembly such that one end of the assembly may be snap-fit attached to a portion of the movable frame, and the opposite end of the linear actuator may be snap-fit attached to a movable component of the assembly, in this case, arms secured to a rotatable torque tube of the assembly. Thereby, ease of assembly and ease of handling of components of the assembly is facilitated. 
     In alternative embodiments of adjustable beds, multiple motorized actuator assemblies each having snap-fit connectors may be used to quicken the assembly process and lessen assembly costs. Such adjustable beds may include wall hugger adjustable beds in which an upper carriage or frame moves relative to a stationary base and non wall hugger adjustable beds in which the upper carriage or frame remains fixed relative to a stationary base. 
     These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will be more readily apparent from the following drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a bottom perspective view of an adjustable bed made in accordance with this invention in a fully inclined position supporting a mattress shown in phantom; 
         FIG. 2  is another bottom perspective view of the adjustable bed of  FIG. 1  without the mattress in a fully inclined position; 
         FIG. 3  is a side elevational view of the adjustable bed of  FIG. 1  without the mattress in a horizontal position; 
         FIG. 4  is a side elevational view of the adjustable bed of  FIG. 1  without the mattress in a fully inclined position; 
         FIG. 5  is a side elevational view, partially in cross section, of the linear actuator assembly portion of the bed with the actuator assembly disconnected from the components of the adjustable bed to which it is ultimately attached. 
         FIG. 6  is a view similar to  FIG. 5 , but showing the actuator assembly attached to the adjustable bed components; 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the linear actuator assembly of the adjustable bed; 
         FIG. 8  is a partially exploded perspective view of the linear actuator assembly of the adjustable bed; 
         FIG. 9  is a bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of adjustable bed made in accordance with this invention in a fully inclined position supporting a mattress shown in phantom; 
         FIG. 10  is another bottom perspective view of the adjustable bed of  FIG. 9  without the mattress in a fully inclined position; 
         FIG. 11  is a side elevational view of the adjustable bed of  FIG. 9  without the mattress in a horizontal position; 
         FIG. 12  is a side elevational view of the adjustable bed of  FIG. 9  without the mattress in a fully inclined position; 
         FIG. 13  is a bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of adjustable bed in a fully inclined position supporting a mattress shown in phantom; 
         FIG. 14  is another bottom perspective view of the adjustable bed of  FIG. 13  without the mattress in a fully inclined position; 
         FIG. 15  is a side elevational view of the adjustable bed of  FIG. 9  without the mattress in a horizontal position; and 
         FIG. 16  is a side elevational view of the adjustable bed of  FIG. 9  without the mattress in a fully inclined position. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     Referring to the drawings, and particularly to  FIG. 1 , there is illustrated an adjustable bed  10  including a mattress  12 . The adjustable bed  10  may be used to support any type of mattress including an air mattress, a coil spring mattress or any other type of mattress. The mattress  12  does not form a part of the present invention. 
     The adjustable bed  10  has a head end  11  and a foot end  13 . The adjustable bed  10  is movable between a first horizontal position shown in  FIG. 3  and a fully inclined position as shown in  FIGS. 1 ,  2  and  4 . Typically, an operator or user sleeps with the adjustable bed in its first horizontal position and reads or watches television with the adjustable bed in its fully inclined position. However, the adjustable bed  10  may assume any intermediate position between the extreme positions illustrated and maintained in such a position. 
     The adjustable bed  10  comprises a stationary generally rectangular base  14  comprising a pair of opposed side rails  16 , a head end rail  18 , a foot end rail  20  and four legs  22  supporting the base  14  a fixed distance about a floor or supporting surface (not shown). The head and foot end rails  18 ,  20 , respectively, each are secured to each side rail  16  and extend therebetween. The head and foot end rails  18 ,  20 , respectively, are illustrated being rectangular in cross-section. However, they may be any desired size or shape, hollow or solid. The legs  22  are shown secured and extending downwardly from the head and foot end rails  18 ,  20 , respectively, but may be secured to the side rails  16  if desired. Although a cylindrical shaped leg  22  is illustrated, any configuration or length of leg or similar support may be used. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , each of the side rails  16  of the base  14  has a generally C-shaped cross-sectional configuration including a vertically oriented side portion  24 , a horizontally oriented top portion  26  extending outwardly from the upper edge of the side portion  24  and a horizontally oriented bottom portion  28  extending outwardly from the lower edge of the side portion  24 . The side, top and bottom portions,  24 ,  26  and  28 , respectively, define an outwardly facing channel  30  in each side rail  16  of the base  14 . Although each side rail  16  is illustrated having a generally C-shaped cross-sectional configuration along its entire length, any desired configuration or length of side rail may be used in the base. For example, the channels may be shaped differently than those illustrated. 
     The adjustable bed  10  further comprises a frame  32  movable relative to the stationary base  14 . The frame  32  is movable between a first position shown in  FIG. 3  when the adjustable bed  10  is in its first horizontal position and a second position shown in  FIGS. 1 ,  2  and  4  when the adjustable bed  10  is in its fully inclined position as shown in  FIGS. 1 ,  2  and  4 . In its first position shown in  FIG. 3 , the frame  32  is located proximate the foot end  13  of the bed (to the right as shown in  FIG. 3 ). In its second position shown in  FIG. 4 , the frame  32  is located proximate the head end  11  of the bed (to the left as shown in  FIG. 4 ). 
     As shown in the drawings, the movable frame  32  comprises a pair of side assemblies  34  connected by front and rear cross members  36 ,  38 , respectively. Each of the front and rear cross members  36 ,  38 , respectively, are joined to each side assembly  34  and extends therebetween. The front and rear cross members  36 ,  38 , respectively, of the movable frame  32  are illustrated being rectangular in cross-section. However, they may be any desired size or shape, hollow or solid. 
     Each of the side assemblies  34  of the movable frame  32  comprises a generally “L-shaped” member  40  having a horizontal portion  42  and a vertical leg portion  44  at the head end  11  of the adjustable bed  10  extending downwardly from the horizontal portion  42  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40 . The horizontal portion  42  has a vertical flange  46  and a horizontal flange  48  while the vertical leg portion  44  has a first flange  50 , a continuation of the horizontal flange  48  and a second flange  52 , a continuation of the vertical flange  46 . Thus, each portion  42 ,  44  of each generally “L-shaped” member  40  has an “L-shaped” cross sectional configuration. 
     A front brace  54  extends between the horizontal portion  42  and the vertical leg portion  44  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40 . The brace  54  is riveted, welded or otherwise secured to the vertical flange  46  of the horizontal portion  42  and the second flange  52  of the leg portion  44  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40 . Although one configuration of front brace  54  is illustrated, other configurations or styles of braces may be used. 
     For purposes of this document, the vertical leg portion  44  of each generally “L-shaped” member  40  of the movable frame  32  may be referred to as a front leg  56  which has a front roller  58  rotatably secured at the bottom thereof, each front roller  58  being sized and adapted to travel inside the channel  30  of one of the side rails  16  of the stationary base  14 . The front roller  58  is rotatably secured to the second flange  52  of the front leg  56 . 
     Each of the side assemblies  34  further comprises a support or rear leg  60  having a first flange  62  and a second flange  64  at right angles or orthogonal to each other. Thus, the support or rear leg  60  has a cross sectional configuration which is generally “L-shaped.” The first flange  62  of the rear leg  60  is parallel the first flange  50  of the front leg  56  while the second flange  64  of the rear leg  60  is parallel the second flange  52  of the front leg  56 . A rear roller  66  is rotatably secured to the second flange  64  of the rear leg  60  of each side assembly  34  of the movable frame  32 . Each rear roller  66  is sized and adapted to travel inside the channel  30  of one of the side rails  16  of the stationary base  14 . 
     A rear brace  68  extends between the horizontal portion  42  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40  and the rear leg  60 . The rear brace  68  is riveted, welded or otherwise secured to the vertical flange  46  of the horizontal portion  42  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40  and the second flange  64  of the rear leg  60  of each side assembly  34 . Although one configuration of rear brace  68  is illustrated, other braces may be used. 
     Portions of an articulated deck  70  are operatively coupled to the movable frame  32  with a plurality of connectors  72  and a portion of the articulated deck  70  is operatively coupled to the movable frame  32  with fasteners  73 . The articulated deck  70  comprises a head deck board  74 , a seat deck board  76 , a leg deck board  78  and a foot deck board  80 . Each of the deck boards is preferably the same width but any two deck boards may be different widths, if desired. Deck boards  74 ,  76 ,  78  and  80  have upper surfaces  75 ,  77 ,  79  and  81 , respectively, and lower surfaces  83 ,  85 ,  87  and  89 , respectively. 
     As best illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the head deck board  74  is hingedly secured to the seat deck board  76  with hinges  91  secured to the lower surfaces  83 ,  85  of the head and seat deck boards  74 ,  76 , respectively. Similarly, seat deck board  76  is hingedly secured to leg deck board  78  with hinges  93  secured to the lower surfaces  85 ,  87  of the seat and leg deck boards  76 , 78 , respectively. Leg deck board  78  is hingedly secured to foot deck board  80  with hinges  95  secured to the lower surfaces  87 ,  89  of the leg and foot deck boards  78 ,  80 , respectively. Although, two hinges  91  are shown in  FIGS. 1 and 4  securing the head deck board  74  to the seat deck board  76 , any number of hinges may be used including one continuous hinge. The same applies to hinges  93  and  95  connecting the other deck boards. 
     The deck boards  74 ,  76 ,  78  and  80  are preferably made of plywood, but may be made of plastic, oriented strand board or any other material. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the head deck board  74  has a rectangular hole  97  therein which may be used to mount a massage unit (not shown) as is common in the industry. Similarly, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the foot deck board  80  has a rectangular hole  98  therein which may be used to mount a massage unit (not shown) as is common in the industry. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the seat deck board  76  is fixedly secured to the movable frame  32  with fasteners  73 . More particularly, the fasteners  73  pass through holes in the horizontal flange  48  of the horizontal portion  42  of each side assembly  34  of the movable frame  32  and into the material of the seat deck board  76 . Thus, the seat deck board  76  remains flat and fixed in the same location relative to the movable frame  32 . When the movable frame  32  moves, the seat deck board  76  moves with it. 
     The adjustable bed  10  further comprises connectors  72  in the form of links of fixed length which limit the travel of the movable frame  32  relative to the stationary base  14  and limit the movement of the articulated deck  70 . As shown in the drawings, the adjustable bed  10  has two head links  100  each of the same fixed length and each pivotally secured at its lower end to one of the side rails  16  of the stationary base  14  with a fastener  101  so that each pivots about a horizontal pivot axis. See  FIG. 2 . At its upper end each of head links  100  is pivotally secured to a bracket  102  fixedly secured to the lower surface  83  of the head deck board  74 . Each head link  100  also pivots about a horizontal axis. 
     Similarly, two leg links  104  or connectors, each of the same fixed length, are each pivotally secured at a lower end to one of the side rails  16  of the stationary base  14  with a fastener  105  so that each pivots about a horizontal pivot axis. See  FIG. 1 . Each leg link  104  is pivotally secured at its upper end to a bracket  106  fixed to the lower surface  87  of the leg deck board  78  and also pivots about a horizontal axis. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 1 ,  3  and  4 , two foot links  108  or connectors, each of the same fixed length, are each pivotally secured at a lower end to one of the rear legs  60  of the side assemblies  34  of the movable frame  32  with fastener  109  so that each pivots about a horizontal pivot axis. See  FIG. 1 . Each foot link  108  is pivotally secured at its upper end to a bracket  110  fixed to the lower surface  89  of the foot deck board  80 . 
     The articulated deck  70  is moved by a motorized linear actuator assembly  112  between a first position shown in  FIG. 3  in which the deck boards  74 ,  76 ,  78  and  80  are generally co-planar in a horizontal position or orientation and a second position shown in  FIGS. 1 ,  2  and  4 . In the second position, the head deck board  74  is inclined, the seat deck board  76  is substantially horizontal and fixed to the movable frame  32 , the leg deck board  78  inclined and the foot deck board  80  slightly inclined. 
     The motorized linear actuator assembly  112  is part of the movable frame  32  and moves with the movable frame  32  relative to the stationary base  14 . The motorized linear actuator assembly  112  comprises a motorized linear actuator  114  fixedly secured to a mounting cross member  116  of the movable frame  32  by a snap-fit connector  150  best illustrated in  FIGS. 5-7 . This mounting cross member  116  forms part of the movable frame  32  and is secured to and extends between two brackets  117 . Each bracket  117  is secured to a vertical flange  46  of the horizontal portion  42  of one of the generally L-shaped members  40  of one of the side assemblies  34  of the movable frame  32 . Thus, the motorized linear actuator  114  moves with the movable frame  32  because it is mounted to the mounting cross member  116  which forms part of the movable frame  32 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 8 , the motorized linear actuator  114  comprises an AC motor  118 , a housing tube  120  and an extension tube  122  extendable from inside the housing tube  120 . A nut  164  having a threaded interior hole  166  is fixed at a specific location inside the extension tube  122 . A threaded screw  168  rotated by the motor  118  moves the nut  164  along a portion of the axial length of the threaded screw  168 . As the nut  164  moves along the length of threaded screw  168 , the extension tube  122  moves relative to the fixed position of the housing tube  120 . 
     The motorized linear actuator assembly  112  further comprises a snap-fit connector  152  secured to the end of extension tube  122 . The snap-fit connector  152  is receivable over a pin  154  extending between a pair of spaced link arms  124  (see  FIGS. 1-6 ). Each link arm  124  is welded or secured at its upper end to a rotatable or pivotal torque tube  126  so that the torque tube  126  is pivotally secured to the extension tube  122  of the motorized linear actuator  114  through the snap-fit connector  152  and pin  154 . The torque tube  126  is, in turn, mounted between brackets  128 , each bracket  128  being secured to a vertical flange  46  of the horizontal portion  42  of the generally L-shaped member or rail  40  of one of the side assemblies  34  of the movable frame  32 . Thus, the torque tube  126  is part of the motorized linear actuator assembly  112 , comprises part of the movable frame  32  and moves with the movable frame  32 . The torque tube  126  has a pair of spaced operating arms  130  extending upwardly therefrom, each arm  130  being a fixed length and having a roller  132  at the end thereof for engaging the lower surface  83  of the head deck board  74 . See  FIG. 4 . Each operating arm  130  is welded or otherwise fixedly secured to the torque tube  126  at its lower end. 
     In use of the linear actuator  112 , the output of the electric motor  118  extends the extension tube  122  which pivots or rotates the torque tube  126  which, in turn, raises the operating arms  130  and causes the rollers  132  to contact and push upwardly the head deck board  74 . The electric motor  118  may be remotely controlled or controlled in any known manner. 
     Although any type of linear actuator may be used, one which has proven satisfactory is a motorized linear actuator available from Hubbell Special Products Incorporated of Pleasant Prairie, Wis. sold under Part Number 7011954, Model MC42 1007H. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 5-8 , there is illustrated in greater detail the snap-fit connection of the motorized linear actuator  112  to the cross bar  116  at one end and to the pin  154  extending between link arms  124  secured to the torque tube  126  at its opposite end. 
     As may be seen in these  FIGS. 5-8 , the snap-fit connector  150  at the foot end of the actuator  112  comprises a shaped plastic block  156  of nylon or other similar plastic material fixedly secured to the housing  158  of the motorized linear actuator  112  by a screw  163 . This block  156  has an arcuate transversely extending recess  160  extending therethrough, which arcuate recess extends through an arc of approximately 220°. This recess is, in turn, intersected by a slot  162  which extends from the end of the block into the arcuate recess  160 . This slot  162  is slightly smaller in width  5  than the diameter of the cross bar  116 . And the diameter of the arcuate slot  160  is slightly larger than the outside diameter of the circular cross section cross bar  116 . So dimensioned, and as illustrated in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , this block  156  may be snap-fit over the cross bar  116  and thereby secured thereto. Preferably, and as illustrated in  FIG. 7 , there are dimples  116   a ,  116   b  formed on the cross bar or cross member  116  so as to prevent lateral movement of the block on the cross bar  116  once the block  156  is snap-fit over the cross bar. 
     Again, still with reference to  FIGS. 5-8 , it will be seen that the snap-fit connector  152  at the opposite end of the motorized linear actuator  112  comprises a generally cylindrically shaped plastic block of nylon or other similar plastic material  170 , which is fixedly attached to the outer end of the extension tube  122  by a transversely extending pin  171  and, for example, a tapered pin which extends through aligned holes  173 ,  175  of the extension tube  122  and connector  152 , respectively. This block  152  has a generally keyhole-shaped slot  172  formed on the underside thereof for reception over the pin  154 . This keyhole-shaped slot  172  comprises a transverse arcuate section  174  which is intersected by an upwardly tapered section  176  of the slot  172 . Arcuate section  174  of the slot also extends for approximately 220° with the narrowest portion of the slot adjacent the arcuate section being slightly smaller in width than the diameter of the pin  154  such that when the extension tube  122  of the actuator  112  is forced downwardly, it may snap-fit over and secure the extension tube  122  to the pin  154 . Thereby, the actuator  112  is secured to the pin  154  and through the link arms  124  to the torque tube  126 . Preferably, there is a small slot  178  in the nylon block on the opposite side from the keyhole-shaped slot  172  which facilitates flexing of the nylon block so as to better enable the connector  152  to be snap-fit over the pin  154 . 
     Because of these snap-fit connections of the motorized linear actuator  112  to the cross bar  116  of the movable frame  32  and to the torque tube  126  via the pin  154  and the links  124  which extend between the pin  154  and the torque tube  126 , the linear actuator  112  may be easily and quickly assembled eliminating the need for any fasteners. This can be very advantageous because of the difficulty of handling a complete adjustable bed and/or if shipped in a disassembled condition, of assembling it via conventional connectors. This invention eliminates all need for such connectors and facilitates assembly of the adjustable bed. 
     In operation, starting from the first position of the adjustable bed  10  shown in  FIG. 3  in which the articulated deck  70  is generally horizontal, an operator (not shown) activates the motorized linear actuator assembly  112  with or without a remote (not shown). Activation of the electric motor  118  extends the extension tube  122  relative to the housing tube  120  which rotates the torque tube  126  via links  124 . Rotation or pivoting the torque tube  126  causes the operating arms  130  of the actuator assembly  112  to rotate or pivot about a horizontal axis parallel the torque tube  126 . The rollers  132  located at the upper ends of the operating arms  130  contact the head deck board  74  and move it from its first horizontal position shown in  FIG. 3  to its second fully inclined position shown in  FIG. 4  in which the head edge  134  of the head deck board  74  is above the rear edge  135  of the head deck board  74 . 
     As the head deck board  74  inclines, the seat deck board  76  and movable frame  32  move towards the head end  11  of the bed (to the left in  FIGS. 3 and 4 ), causing or pulling the leg deck board  78  horizontally towards the head end  11  of the bed. The leg deck board  78  also moves towards the head end  11  of the bed  10 , from its first horizontal position shown in  FIG. 3  to its second fully inclined position shown in  FIG. 4 . In this fully inclined position, the front edge  136  of the leg deck board  78  is lower than the rear edge  138  of the leg deck board  78 . This movement of the leg deck board  78  causes or pulls the foot deck board  80  towards the head end  11  of the bed as the connectors  72  and in particular the foot links  108  are pivoted about horizontal pivot axes in a counterclockwise direction as viewed in  FIGS. 3 and 4 . In its fully inclined position shown in  FIG. 4 , the front edge  140  of the foot deck board  80  is higher than the rear edge  142  of the foot deck board  80 . 
     As desired, the adjustable bed  10  may be moved from its fully inclined position shown in  FIG. 4  (in which the front edge  134  of the head deck board  74  is above the rear edge  135  of the head deck board  74 ) back to its horizontal position shown in  FIG. 3  via use of the motorized linear actuator assembly  112 . 
       FIGS. 9-12  illustrate an alternative embodiment of adjustable bed  10   a  utilizing two motorized linear actuator assemblies and known in the art as a wall hugger adjustable bed. For purposes of simplicity, like parts are identified with like numbers but an “a” designation in the description of this embodiment relative to the embodiment of adjustable bed shown in  FIGS. 1-4  having only one motorized linear actuator assembly  12 . 
     The adjustable bed  10   a  has a head end  11  a and a foot end  13   a . The adjustable bed  10   a  is movable between a first horizontal position shown in  FIG. 11  and a fully inclined position shown in  FIGS. 9 ,  10  and  12 . 
     The adjustable bed  10   a  comprises a stationary generally rectangular base  14   a , like base  14 , comprising a pair of opposed side rails  16   a , a head end rail  18   a , a foot end rail  20   a  and four legs  22   a  supporting the base  14   a  a fixed distance about a floor or supporting surface (not shown). The head and foot end rails  18   a ,  20   a , respectively, each are secured to each side rail  16   a  and extend therebetween. The head and foot end rails  18   a ,  20   a , respectively, are illustrated being rectangular in cross-section. However, they may be any desired size or shape, hollow or solid. The legs  22   a  are shown secured and extending downwardly from the head and foot end rails  18   a ,  20   a , respectively, but may be secured to the side rails  16   a . Although a cylindrical shaped leg  22   a  is illustrated, any configuration or length of leg or similar support may be used. 
     As shown in  FIG. 9 , each of the side rails  16   a  of the base  14   a  has a generally C-shaped cross-sectional configuration including a vertically oriented side portion  24   a , a horizontally oriented top portion  26   a  extending outwardly from the upper edge of the side portion  24   a  and a horizontally oriented bottom portion  28   a  extending outwardly from the lower edge of the side portion  24   a . The side, top and bottom portions,  24   a ,  26   a  and  28   a , respectively, define an outwardly facing channel  30   a  in each side rail  16   a . Although each side rail  16   a  is illustrated having a generally C-shaped cross-sectional configuration along its entire length, any desired configuration or length of side rail may be used in the base. For example, the channels may be shaped differently than those illustrated. 
     The adjustable bed  10   a  further comprises an upper carriage or frame  32   a  movable relative to the stationary base  14   a  to prove wall hugger action. The frame  32   a  is movable between a first position shown in  FIG. 11  when the adjustable bed  10   a  is in its first horizontal position and a second position shown in  FIGS. 9 ,  10  and  12  when the adjustable bed  10   a  is in its fully inclined position. In its first position shown in  FIG. 11 , the movable frame  32   a  is located proximate the foot end  13   a  of the bed (to the right as shown in  FIG. 11 ). In its second position shown in  FIG. 12 , the frame  32   a  is located proximate the head end  11   a  of the bed (to the left as shown in  FIG. 12 ). 
     The movable frame  32   a  comprises a pair of side assemblies  34   a  connected by front and rear cross members  36   a ,  38   a , respectively. See  FIGS. 9 and 10 . Each of the front and rear cross members  36   a ,  38   a , respectively, are joined to each side assembly  34   a  and extends therebetween. The front and rear cross members  36   a ,  38   a , respectively, of the movable frame  32   a  are illustrated being rectangular in cross-section. However, they may be any desired size or shape, hollow or solid. 
     Each of the side assemblies  34   a  of the movable frame  32   a  comprises a generally “L-shaped” member  40   a  having a horizontal portion  42   a  and a vertical leg portion  44   a  at the head end  11   a  of the adjustable bed  10   a  extending downwardly from the horizontal portion  42   a  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40   a . The horizontal portion  42   a  has a vertical flange  46   a  and a horizontal flange  48   a  while the vertical leg portion  44   a  has a first flange  50   a , a continuation of the horizontal flange  48   a  and a second flange  52   a , a continuation of the vertical flange  46   a . Thus, each portion  42   a ,  44   a  of each generally “L-shaped” member  40   a  has an “L-shaped” cross sectional configuration. 
     A front brace  54   a  extends between the horizontal portion  42   a  and the vertical leg portion  44   a  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40   a . The brace  54   a  is riveted, welded or otherwise secured to the vertical flange  46   a  of the horizontal portion  42   a  and the second flange  52   a  of the leg portion  44   a  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40   a . Although one configuration of front brace  54   a  is illustrated, other configurations or styles of braces may be used. 
     For purposes of this document, the vertical leg portion  44   a  of each generally “L-shaped” member  40   a  of the movable frame  32   a  may be referred to as a front leg  56   a  which has a front roller  58   a  rotatably secured at the bottom thereof, each front roller  58   a  being sized and adapted to travel inside the channel  30   a  of one of the side rails  16   a  of the stationary base  14   a . The front roller  58   a  is rotatably secured to the second flange  52   a  of the front leg  56   a.    
     Each of the side assemblies  34   a  further comprises a support or rear leg  60   a  having a first flange  62   a  and a second flange  64   a  at right angles or orthogonal to each other. Thus, the support or rear leg  60   a  has a cross sectional configuration which is generally “L-shaped.” The first flange  62   a  of the rear leg  60   a  is parallel the first flange  50   a  of the front leg  56   a  while the second flange  64   a  of the rear leg  60   a  is parallel the second flange  52   a  of the front leg  56   a . A rear roller  66   a  is rotatably secured to the second flange  64   a  of the rear leg  60   a  of each side assembly  34   a  of the movable frame  32   a . Each rear roller  66   a  is sized and adapted to travel inside the channel  30   a  of one of the side rails  16   a  of the stationary base  14   a.    
     A rear brace  68   a  extends between the horizontal portion  42   a  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40   a  and the rear leg  60   a . The rear brace  68   a  is riveted, welded or otherwise secured to the vertical flange  46   a  of the horizontal portion  42   a  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40   a  and the second flange  64   a  of the rear leg  60   a  of each side assembly  34   a . Although one configuration of rear brace  68   a  is illustrated, other braces may be used. 
     Portions of an articulated deck  70   a  are operatively coupled to the movable frame  32   a  with a plurality of connectors  72   a  and a seat deck board  76   a  of the articulated deck  70   a  is operatively coupled to the movable frame  32   a  with fasteners  73   a . The articulated deck  70   a  comprises a head deck board  74   a , a seat deck board  76   a , a leg deck board  78   a  and a foot deck board  80   a . Each of the deck boards is preferably the same width but any two deck boards may be different widths, if desired. Deck boards  74   a ,  76   a ,  78   a  and  80   a  have upper surfaces  75   a ,  77   a ,  79   a  and  81   a , respectively, and lower surfaces  83   a ,  85   a ,  87   a  and  89   a , respectively. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the head deck board  74   a  is hingedly secured to the seat deck board  76   a  with hinges  91   a  secured to the lower surfaces  83   a ,  85   a  of the head and seat deck boards  74   a ,  76   a , respectively. Similarly, seat deck board  76   a  is hingedly secured to leg deck board  78   a  with hinges  93   a  secured to the lower surfaces  85   a ,  87   a  of the seat and leg deck boards  76   a ,  78   a , respectively. Leg deck board  78   a  is hingedly secured to foot deck board  80   a  with hinges  95   a  secured to the lower surfaces  87   a ,  89   a  of the leg and foot deck boards  78   a ,  80   a , respectively. Although, two hinges  91   a  are shown in  FIGS. 9 and 12  securing the head deck board  74   a  to the seat deck board  76   a , any number of hinges may be used including one continuous hinge. The same applies to hinges  93   a  and  95   a  connecting the other deck boards. The deck boards  74   a ,  76   a ,  78   a  and  80   a  are preferably made of plywood, but may be made of plastic, oriented strand board or any other material. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 10 , the head deck board  74   a  has a rectangular hole  97   a  therein which may be used to mount a massage unit (not shown) as is common in the industry. Similarly, as illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the foot deck board  80   a  has a rectangular hole  98   a  therein which may be used to mount a massage unit (not shown) as is common in the industry. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 9 , the seat deck board  76   a  is fixedly secured to the movable frame  32   a  with fasteners  73   a . More particularly, the fasteners  73   a  pass through holes in the horizontal flange  48   a  of the horizontal portion  42   a  of each side assembly  34   a  of the movable frame  32   a  and into the material of the seat deck board  76   a . Thus, the seat deck board  76   a  remains flat and fixed in the same location relative to the movable frame  32   a . When the movable frame  32   a  moves, the seat deck board  76   a  moves with it. 
     The adjustable bed  10   a  further comprises connectors  72   a  in the form of links of fixed length which limit the travel of the movable frame  32   a  relative to the stationary base  14   a  and limit the movement of the articulated deck  70   a . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the adjustable bed  10   a  has two head links  100   a  each of the same fixed length and each pivotally secured at its lower end to one of the side rails  16   a  of the stationary base  14   a  with a fastener  101   a  so that each pivots about a horizontal pivot axis. At its upper end each of head links  100   a  is pivotally secured to a bracket  102   a  fixedly secured to the lower surface  83   a  of the head deck board  74   a . Each head link  100   a  also pivots about a horizontal axis. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 9 ,  11  and  12 , two foot links  108   a  or connectors, each of the same fixed length, are each pivotally secured at a lower end to one of the rear legs  60   a  of the side assemblies  34   a  of the movable frame  32   a  with fastener  109   a  so that each pivots about a horizontal pivot axis. See  FIG. 9 . Each foot link  108   a  is pivotally secured at its upper end to a bracket  110   a  fixed to the lower surface  89   a  of the foot deck board  80   a.    
     The articulated deck  70   a  is moved by two motorized linear actuator assemblies  112   a ,  113   a  between a first position shown in  FIG. 11  in which the deck boards  74   a ,  76   a ,  78   a  and  80   a  are generally co-planar in a horizontal position or orientation and a second position shown in  FIGS. 9 ,  11  and  12 . In the second position, the head deck board  74   a  is inclined, the seat deck board  76   a  is substantially horizontal and fixed to the movable frame  32   a , the leg deck board  78   a  inclined and the foot deck board  80   a  slightly inclined. 
     In this embodiment of wall hugger adjustable bed  10   a , each motorized linear actuator assembly  112   a ,  113   a  is part of the movable frame  32   a  and moves with the movable frame  32   a  relative to the stationary base  14   a.    
     The first motorized linear actuator assembly  112   a  comprises a first motorized linear actuator  114   a  secured to a first rotatable or pivotal torque tube  116   a  of the movable frame  32   a  by a snap-fit connector  150  like the one illustrated in  FIGS. 5-7 . The first torque tube  116   a  forms part of the movable frame  32   a  and is secured to and extends between two brackets  117   a . Each bracket  117   a  is secured to a vertical flange  46   a  of the horizontal portion  42   a  of one of the generally L-shaped members  40   a  of one of the side assemblies  34   a  of the movable frame  32   a . Thus, the motorized linear actuator  114   a  moves with the movable frame  32   a  because it is mounted by a snap-fit connector  150  to the first torque tube  16   a  which forms part of the movable frame  32   a.    
     The first motorized linear actuator  114   a  is identical to the motorized linear actuator  114  shown in detail in  FIGS. 5-8  and comprises an AC motor  118  in a housing  158 , a housing tube  120  and an extension tube  122  extendable from inside the housing tube  120  in the manner described above and shown in the drawings, particularly  FIGS. 5-10 . 
     The first motorized linear actuator assembly  112   a  further comprises a snap-fit connector  152  secured to the end of extension tube  122  and receivable over a pin  154  extending between a pair of spaced link arms  124   a  (see  FIGS. 9-12 ). Each link arm  124   a  is welded or secured at its upper end to a second rotatable or pivotal torque tube  126   a  so that the torque tube  126   a  is pivotally secured to the extension tube  122  of the motorized linear actuator  114   a  through the snap-fit connector  152  and pin  154 . The torque tube  126   a  is, in turn, mounted between brackets  128   a  (see  FIG. 9 ), each bracket  128   a  being secured to a vertical flange  46   a  of the horizontal portion  42   a  of the generally L-shaped member or rail  40   a  of one of the side assemblies  34   a  of the movable frame  32   a . Thus, the second torque tube  126   a  is part of the first motorized linear actuator assembly  112   a  and moves with the movable frame  32   a . The second torque tube  126   a  has a pair of spaced operating arms  130   a  extending upwardly therefrom, each arm  130   a  being a fixed length and having a roller  132   a  at the end thereof for engaging the lower surface  83   a  of the head deck board  74   a . See  FIGS. 9 and 12 . Each operating arm  130   a  is welded or otherwise fixedly secured to the second torque tube  126   a  at its lower end. 
     The second motorized linear actuator assembly  113   a  comprises a second motorized linear actuator  115   a  secured to second torque tube  126   a  of the movable frame  32   a  by a snap-fit connector  150  as illustrated in  FIGS. 5-7 . The second motorized linear actuator  115   a , like the first motorized linear actuator  114   a , moves with the movable frame  32   a . The second motorized linear actuator  115   a  is identical to the motorized linear actuator  114  shown in detail in  FIGS. 5-8  and comprises an AC motor  118 , a housing tube  120  and an extension tube  122  extendable from inside the housing tube  120  in the manner described above and shown in the drawings. 
     The second motorized linear actuator assembly  113   a  further comprises a snap-fit connector  152  secured to the end of extension tube  122  and receivable over a pin  154  extending between a pair of spaced link arms  125   a  (see  FIGS. 1-5  and  6 ). Each link arm  125   a  is welded or secured at its upper end to first rotatable torque tube  116   a  so that the first torque tube  116   a  is pivotally secured to the extension tube  122  of the motorized linear actuator  115   a  through the snap-fit connector  152  and pin  154 . The first torque tube  116  is, in turn, mounted between brackets  117   a , each bracket  117   a  being secured to a vertical flange  46   a  of the horizontal portion  42   a  of the generally L-shaped member or rail  40   a  of one of the side assemblies  34   a  of the movable frame  32   a . Thus, the first torque tube  116   a  is part of the first and second motorized linear actuator assemblies  114   a ,  115   a  and moves with the movable frame  32   a . The first torque tube  116   a  has a pair of spaced operating arms  131   a  extending upwardly therefrom, each operating arm  131   a  being a fixed length and having a roller  133   a  at the end thereof for engaging the lower surface  87   a  of the leg deck board  78   a . See  FIG. 12 . Each operating arm  131   a  is welded or otherwise fixedly secured to the first torque tube  116   a  at its lower end. 
       FIGS. 13-16  illustrate an alternative embodiment of adjustable bed  10   b  utilizing two motorized linear actuator assemblies. This adjustable bed  10   b  is not considered a wall hugger adjustable bed because the frame does not move relative to the base. For purposes of simplicity, like parts are identified with like numbers but a “b” designation in the description of this embodiment. The adjustable bed  10   b  has a head end  11   b  and a foot end  13   b . The adjustable bed  10   b  is movable between a first horizontal position shown in  FIG. 15  and a fully inclined position shown in  FIGS. 13 ,  14  and  16 . 
     The adjustable bed  10   b  comprises a stationary generally rectangular base  14   b , like base  14 , comprising a pair of opposed side rails  16   b , a head end rail  18   b , a foot end rail  20   b  and four legs  22   b  supporting the base  14   b  a fixed distance about a floor or supporting surface (not shown). The head and foot end rails  18   b ,  20   b , respectively, each are secured to each side rail  16   b  and extend therebetween. The head and foot end rails  18   b ,  20   b , respectively, are illustrated being rectangular in cross-section. However, they may be any desired size or shape, hollow or solid. The legs  22   b  are shown secured and extending downwardly from the head and foot end rails  18   b ,  20   b , respectively, but may be secured to the side rails  16   b . Although a cylindrical shaped leg  22   b  is illustrated, any configuration or length of leg or similar support may be used. 
     As shown in  FIG. 13 , each of the side rails  16   b  of the base  14   b  has a generally C-shaped cross-sectional configuration including a vertically oriented side portion  24   b , a horizontally oriented top portion  26   b  extending outwardly from the upper edge of the side portion  24   b  and a horizontally oriented bottom portion  28   b  extending outwardly from the lower edge of the side portion  24   b . The side, top and bottom portions,  24   b ,  26   b  and  28   b , respectively, define an inwardly facing channel  30   b  in each side rail  16   b  (opposite the direction of the channels  30  and  30   a ). Although each side rail  16   b  is illustrated having a generally C-shaped cross-sectional configuration along its entire length, any desired configuration or length of side rail may be used in the base. For example, the channels may be shaped differently than those illustrated. 
     The adjustable bed  10   b  further comprises an upper carriage or frame  32   b  welded or otherwise fixed relative to the stationary base  14   b . The frame  32   b  comprises a pair of side assemblies  34   b . Each of the side assemblies  34   b  of the frame  32   b  comprises a generally “L-shaped” member  40   b  having a horizontal portion  42   b  and a vertical leg portion  44   b  at the head end  11   b  of the adjustable bed  10   b  extending downwardly from the horizontal portion  42   b  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40   b . The horizontal portion  42   b  has a vertical flange  46   b  and a horizontal flange  48   b  while the vertical leg portion  44   b  has a first flange  50   b , a continuation of the horizontal flange  48   b  and a second flange  52   b , a continuation of the vertical flange  46   b . Thus, each portion  42   b ,  44   b  of each generally “L-shaped” member  40   b  has an “L-shaped” cross sectional configuration. 
     A front brace  54   b  extends between the horizontal portion  42   b  and the vertical leg portion  44   b  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40   b . The brace  54   b  is riveted, welded or otherwise secured to the vertical flange  46   b  of the horizontal portion  42   b  and the second flange  52   b  of the leg portion  44   b  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40   b . Although one configuration of front brace  54   b  is illustrated, other configurations or styles of braces may be used. 
     For purposes of this document, the vertical leg portion  44   b  of each generally “L-shaped” member  40   b  of the frame  32   b  may be referred to as a front leg  56   b  which is welded at the bottom thereof, to one of the side rails  16   b  of the base  14   b.    
     Each of the side assemblies  34   b  further comprises a support or rear leg  60   b  having a first flange  62   b  and a second flange  64   b  at right angles or orthogonal to each other. Thus, the support or rear leg  60   b  has a cross sectional configuration which is generally “L-shaped.” The first flange  62   b  of the rear leg  60   b  is parallel the first flange  50   b  of the front leg  56   b  while the second flange  64   b  of the rear leg  60   b  is parallel the second flange  52   b  of the front leg  56   b . The second flange  64   b  of the rear leg  60   a  of each side assembly  34   a  of the frame  32   a  is welded to one of the side rails  16   b  of the base  14   b.    
     A rear brace  68   b  extends between the horizontal portion  42   b  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40   b  and the rear leg  60   b . The rear brace  68   b  is riveted, welded or otherwise secured to the vertical flange  46   b  of the horizontal portion  42   b  of the generally “L-shaped” member  40   b  and the second flange  64   b  of the rear leg  60   b  of each side assembly  34   b . Although one configuration of rear brace  68   b  is illustrated, other braces may be used. 
     Portions of an articulated deck  70   b  are operatively coupled to the frame  32   b  with a plurality of connectors  72   a  and a seat deck board  76   b  of the articulated deck  70   b  is operatively coupled to the frame  32   b  with fasteners  73   b . The articulated deck  70   b  comprises a head deck board  74   b , a seat deck board  76   b , a leg deck board  78   b  and a foot deck board  80   b . Each of the deck boards is preferably the same width but any two deck boards may be different widths, if desired. Deck boards  74   b ,  76   b ,  78   b  and  80   b  have upper surfaces  75   b ,  77   b ,  79   b  and  81   b , respectively, and lower surfaces  83   b ,  85   b ,  87   b  and  89   b , respectively. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 13 , the head deck board  74   b  is hingedly secured to the seat deck board  76   b  with hinges  91   b  secured to the lower surfaces  83   b ,  85   b  of the head and seat deck boards  74   b ,  76   b , respectively. Similarly, seat deck board  76   b  is hingedly secured to leg deck board  78   b  with hinges  93   b  secured to the lower surfaces  85   b ,  87   b  of the seat and leg deck boards  76   b ,  78   b , respectively. Leg deck board  78   b  is hingedly secured to foot deck board  80   b  with hinges  95   b  secured to the lower surfaces  87   b ,  89   b  of the leg and foot deck boards  78   b ,  80   b , respectively. Although, two hinges  91   b  are shown in  FIG. 13  securing the head deck board  74   b  to the seat deck board  76   b , any number of hinges may be used including one continuous hinge. The same applies to hinges  93   b  and  95   b  connecting the other deck boards. The deck boards  74   b ,  76   b ,  78   b  and  80   b  are preferably made of plywood, but may be made of plastic, oriented strand board or any other material. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 14 , the head deck board  74   b  has a rectangular hole  97   b  therein which may be used to mount a massage unit (not shown) as is common in the industry. Similarly, as illustrated in  FIG. 13 , the foot deck board  80   b  has a rectangular hole  98   b  therein which may be used to mount a massage unit (not shown) as is common in the industry. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 13 , the seat deck board  76   b  is fixedly secured to the frame  32   b  with fasteners  73   b . More particularly, the fasteners  73   b  pass through holes in the horizontal flange  48   b  of the horizontal portion  42   b  of each side assembly  34   b  of the movable frame  32   b  and into the material of the seat deck board  76   b . Thus, the seat deck board  76   b  remains flat and fixed in the same location relative to the frame  32   b.    
     The adjustable bed  10   b  further comprises connectors  72   b  in the form of links of fixed length which limit the movement of the articulated deck  70   b . As shown in  FIG. 14 , the adjustable bed  10   b  has two head links  100   b  each of the same fixed length and each pivotally secured at its lower end to one of the side rails  16   b  of the stationary base  14   b  with a fastener  101   b  so that each pivots about a horizontal pivot axis. At its upper end each of head links  100   b  is pivotally secured to a bracket  102   b  fixedly secured to the lower surface  83   b  of the head deck board  74   b . Each head link  100   b  also pivots about a horizontal axis. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 13 ,  15  and  16 , two foot links  108   b  or connectors, each of the same fixed length, are each pivotally secured at a lower end to one of the rear legs  60   b  of the side assemblies  34   b  of the frame  32   b  with fastener  109   b  so that each pivots about a horizontal pivot axis. See  FIG. 13 . Each foot link  108   b  is pivotally secured at its upper end to a bracket  110   b  fixed to the lower surface  89   b  of the foot deck board  80   b.    
     The articulated deck  70   b  is moved by two motorized linear actuator assemblies  112   b ,  113   b  between a first position shown in  FIG. 15  in which the deck boards  74   b ,  76   b ,  78   b  and  80   b  are generally co-planar in a horizontal position or orientation and a second position shown in  FIGS. 13 ,  15  and  16 . In the second position, the head deck board  74   b  is inclined, the seat deck board  76   b  is substantially horizontal and fixed to the frame  32   b , the leg deck board  78   b  inclined and the foot deck board  80   b  slightly inclined. 
     In this embodiment of adjustable bed  10   b , the first motorized linear actuator assembly  112   b  comprises a first motorized linear actuator  114   b  secured to a first rotatable or pivotal torque tube  116   b  of frame  32   b  by a snap-fit connector  150  like the one illustrated in  FIGS. 5-7 . The first torque tube  116   b  is secured to and extends between two brackets  117   b . Each bracket  117   b  is secured to a vertical flange  46   b  of the horizontal portion  42   b  of one of the generally L-shaped members  40   b  of one of the side assemblies  34   b  of the frame  32   b . Thus, one end of the first motorized linear actuator  114   b  is mounted to the first torque tube  116   b  which forms part of the frame  32   b.    
     The first motorized linear actuator  114   b  is identical to the motorized linear actuator  114  shown in detail in  FIGS. 5-8  and comprises an AC motor  118  protected by housing  158 , a housing tube  120  and an extension tube  122  extendable from inside the housing tube  120  in the manner described above and shown in the drawings. 
     The first motorized linear actuator assembly  112   b  further comprises a snap-fit connector  152  secured to the end of extension tube  122  and receivable over a pin  154  extending between a pair of spaced link arms  124   b  (see  FIGS. 13-16 ). Each link arm  124   b  is welded or secured at its upper end to a second rotatable torque tube  126   b  so that the torque tube  126   b  is pivotally secured to the extension tube  122  of the motorized linear actuator  114   b  through the snap-fit connector  152  and pin  154 . The second torque tube  126   b  is, in turn, mounted between brackets  128   b , each bracket  128   b  being secured to a vertical flange  46   b  of the horizontal portion  42   b  of the generally L-shaped member or rail  40   b  of one of the side assemblies  34   b  of the frame  32   b . Thus, the second torque tube  126   b  is part of the first motorized linear actuator assembly  112   b . The second torque tube  126   b  has a pair of spaced operating arms  130   b  extending upwardly therefrom, each arm  130   b  being a fixed length and having a roller  132   b  at the end thereof for engaging the lower surface  83   b  of the head deck board  74   b . See  FIGS. 13 and 16 . Each operating arm  130   b  is welded or otherwise fixedly secured to the second torque tube  126   b  at its lower end. 
     The second motorized linear actuator assembly  113   b  comprises a second motorized linear actuator  115   b  secured to second torque tube  126   b  of the frame  32   b  by a snap-fit connector  150  as illustrated in  FIGS. 5-7 . The second motorized linear actuator  115   b  comprises an AC motor  118  in a housing  158 , a housing tube  120  and an extension tube  122  extendable from inside the housing tube  120  in the manner described above and shown in the drawings. 
     The second motorized linear actuator assembly  113   b  further comprises a snap-fit connector  152  secured to the end of extension tube  122  and receivable over a pin  154  extending between a pair of spaced link arms  125   b  (see  FIGS. 13-16 ). Each link arm  125   b  is welded or secured at its upper end to first rotatable torque tube  116   b  so that the first torque tube  116   b  is pivotally secured to the extension tube  122  of the second motorized linear actuator  115   b  through the snap-fit connector  152  and pin  154 . The first torque tube  116   b  is, in turn, mounted between brackets  128   b , each bracket  128   b  being secured to a vertical flange  46   b  of the horizontal portion  42   b  of the generally L-shaped member or rail  40   b  of one of the side assemblies  34   b  of the frame  32   b . The first torque tube  116   b  has a pair of spaced operating arms  131   b  extending upwardly therefrom, each arm  131   b  being a fixed length and having a roller  133   b  at the end thereof for engaging the lower surface  83   b  of the leg deck board  78   b . See  FIG. 16 . Each operating arm  131   b  is welded or otherwise fixedly secured to the first torque tube  116   b  at its lower end. 
     Although I have described one preferred embodiment of the invention, I do not intend to be limited except by the scope of the following claims.