Patent Description:
<CIT> describes a push handle with a rotatable user interface that pivots downwardly to an out-of-the-way stowed position.

<CIT> describes dual position handles for a hospital stretcher.

<CIT> describes a collapsible litter apparatus, system and method.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a patient support apparatus includes a mattress having a head end. A frame is configured to support the mattress. The frame includes a head portion that extends beyond the head end of the mattress. The head portion of the frame defines a recess. Opposing sidewalls of the recess each extend at an oblique angle from a rear wall of the recess. A first handle assembly is pivotally coupled to a first side of the head portion. The first handle assembly includes an elongate member and a grip. A second handle assembly is pivotally coupled to a second side of the head portion. The second handle assembly includes an elongate member and a grip. Each of the first handle assembly and the second handle assembly are operable between a stowed position and a deployed position. Each of the first handle assembly and the second handle assembly are configured to be rotated downward to be disposed over the head portion and extend between the rear wall and the head end when in the stowed position. The elongate member and the grip of each of the first handle assembly and the second handle assembly do not extend into a space defined by the recess when the first handle assembly and the second handle assembly are rotated downward and extending over the head portion in the stowed position.

The invention as defined by the appended claims will now be further described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:.

The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to providing increased access to a bed occupant by a caregiver at a head of the bed. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

Unless stated otherwise, the term "front" shall refer to a surface of the device closest to an intended viewer, and the term "rear" shall refer to a surface of the device furthest from the intended viewer. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.

The terms "including," "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprises a. " does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

Referring to <FIG>, reference numeral <NUM> generally designates a bed with a bed frame <NUM> configured to support a mattress <NUM>. The frame <NUM> includes a head portion <NUM> configured to extend laterally beyond a periphery <NUM> of the mattress <NUM>. At least one handle assembly <NUM> extends from the head portion <NUM>. The at least one handle assembly <NUM> includes an elongate member <NUM> pivotally coupled with the head portion <NUM> and a handle <NUM> that extends at an angle α from a distal end <NUM> of the elongate member <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the illustrated bed may include a hospital bed. The bed <NUM> also includes a surface, such as the mattress <NUM>, supported by the frame <NUM>. While described as the bed <NUM>, it is within the scope of the disclosure that the bed <NUM> may be any patient support apparatus known in the art and may include a patient support structure such as a mattress <NUM>, or any suitable structure for supporting a patient.

As illustrated, the frame <NUM> of the bed <NUM> includes the head portion <NUM> and a foot portion <NUM>. The bed <NUM> may include a footboard <NUM> at the foot portion <NUM> and a headboard <NUM> at the head portion <NUM>. Furthermore, the bed <NUM> may include a pair of head side rail assemblies <NUM> and a pair of foot side rail assemblies <NUM>. In some examples, a graphical user interface <NUM> is coupled to an external side of at least one side rail of the side rail assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>. The graphical user interface <NUM> may be configured to accept a user input in order to control functions of the mattress <NUM> and/or the bed <NUM>. While <FIG> illustrates the graphical user interface <NUM> coupled to the external side of at least one of the side rails of the side rail assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, it is contemplated that the graphical user interface <NUM> may be coupled to any suitable component of the bed <NUM> for access by a user or caregiver. In some examples, the graphical user interface <NUM> may be coupled to the footboard <NUM> or the headboard <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the frame <NUM> is supported on casters or wheels <NUM> that engage with an underlying floor surface. The wheels <NUM> are generally coupled to the frame <NUM> via an axle. The wheels <NUM> can be configured to rotate in a power drive mode in order to propel the bed <NUM> for transportation by a caregiver, medical professional, or other users.

The bed <NUM> includes a controller <NUM> having a processor <NUM>, a memory <NUM>, and other control circuitry. Instructions or routines <NUM> are stored in the memory <NUM> and executable by the processor <NUM>. The controller <NUM> may be in communication with various aspects of the bed <NUM> to communicate control signals. The bed <NUM> may include a motorized unit <NUM> operably coupled with a drive system <NUM> connected with the frame <NUM>. In various aspects, the frame <NUM> may be operable between raised, lowered, and tilted positions. The handle assembly <NUM> can include controls <NUM> for operating the motorized unit <NUM>. The caregiver or other medical professional can input a command through the controls <NUM>, which can be communicated to the controller <NUM>. The controller <NUM> can send a corresponding signal to control the bed <NUM> in response to the command.

The bed <NUM> may include various mattress function technologies, such as a microclimate management (MCM) system <NUM>. The MCM system <NUM> may address shear, friction, pressure, and moisture properties of the mattress <NUM> in order to optimize patient comfort and to keep a patient's skin cool and dry, which may aid in the prevention of complications in patient recovery, such as wound prevention. The MCM system <NUM> may automatically make adjustments based on predetermined therapy functions or manually make adjustments based on user input commands received from the graphical user interface <NUM>. The bed <NUM> may further include a pneumatic system <NUM> that provides air for operation of the MCM system <NUM>. Furthermore, the pneumatic system <NUM> may control airflow in and out of various air bladders or cells of the mattress <NUM>. In some examples, an MCM system status floor indicator may be projected as an image onto the floor surface from a projector <NUM> coupled with the foot portion <NUM> of the bed <NUM> to indicate whether the MCM system <NUM> is on or off and in what state the MCM system <NUM> is operating.

With reference to <FIG>, <FIG>, the headboard <NUM> can be selectively engaged with the frame <NUM>. The headboard <NUM> may be coupled to the head portion <NUM> of the frame <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>, via retaining brackets <NUM>. The retaining brackets <NUM> operate to hold the headboard <NUM> in position on the head portion <NUM>. The headboard <NUM> can be removed from the frame <NUM> by a caregiver, as illustrated in <FIG>, to provide greater access to a head area of a patient disposed on the bed <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the mattress <NUM> includes a head end <NUM> disposed on the head portion <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. The head portion <NUM> of the frame <NUM> extends beyond the periphery <NUM> (<FIG>) of the mattress <NUM>. The head portion <NUM> is configured to provide an interface between the frame <NUM> and each handle assembly <NUM>. In some examples, a protective shroud may be placed over portions of the frame <NUM>. The protective shroud may, for example, be positioned between the mattress <NUM> and the frame <NUM>.

The head portion <NUM> generally defines a recess <NUM> configured to provide additional access to the patient by the caregiver. A rear wall <NUM> of the recess <NUM> is offset from an outer edge <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. Opposing sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> of the recess <NUM> extend between the rear wall <NUM> and the outer edge <NUM>. The opposing sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> generally extend at an oblique angle from the rear wall <NUM>, such that the recess <NUM> defines a trapezoidal-shaped space. A wider space adjacent to the outer edge <NUM> of the frame <NUM> relative to the narrower space adjacent to the rear wall <NUM> of the recess <NUM> can be advantageous for providing comfort to a caregiver moving within the space. The opposing sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> extending at oblique angles can reduce sharp corners where a caregiver moves around to access the patient.

The outer edge <NUM> is disposed a greater distance from the head end <NUM> of the mattress <NUM> relative to the rear wall <NUM> of the recess <NUM>. In a non-limiting example, the rear wall <NUM> of the recess <NUM> may be disposed about <NUM>-inches from the periphery <NUM> of the head end <NUM> of the mattress <NUM>. In such examples, the outer edge <NUM> can be disposed about <NUM>-inches from the outer periphery <NUM> (<FIG>) of the mattress <NUM>.

As illustrated, the recess <NUM> is centrally located in the head portion <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. The recess <NUM> is generally defined between outwardly extending side projections <NUM>, <NUM>. The side projections <NUM>, <NUM> each define an aperture <NUM>, which is configured to hold and/or store removable medical supplies, such as, for example, an oxygen tank. The apertures <NUM> are generally centrally aligned with the rear wall <NUM> of the recess <NUM>. When the caregiver is standing within the space defined by the recess <NUM>, the caregiver can abut the rear wall <NUM>. Having the apertures <NUM> with medical supplies aligned with the rear wall <NUM> can provide greater accessibility to the medical supplies by the caregiver.

Referring still to <FIG>, each handle assembly <NUM> is configured to rotate downward into abutment or close proximity to the head portion <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. Each handle assembly <NUM> includes a base <NUM> that is secured to the head portion <NUM>. The base <NUM> is pivotally coupled to the elongate member <NUM>. Generally, the first handle assembly <NUM> is coupled to the head portion <NUM> proximate a first side of the recess <NUM> adjacent the first side projection <NUM>, and the second handle assembly <NUM> is coupled to the head portion <NUM> proximate a second opposing side of the recess <NUM> adjacent the second side projection <NUM>. A protective cover <NUM> in the form of a polymeric bellows is disposed on the elongate member <NUM> over a hinge assembly coupling the elongate member <NUM> with the base <NUM>.

In addition, each handle assembly <NUM> is operable to rotate or pivot inwardly between a deployed position (<FIG>), where the elongate member <NUM> extends generally vertically, normal to a planar extent of a topside of the frame <NUM>, and a stowed position (<FIG>) where the elongate member <NUM> and the handle <NUM> are abutting or in close proximity to the head portion <NUM>. Each handle <NUM> includes a grip <NUM> that extends at an acute angle α from the distal end <NUM> of the elongate member <NUM>. In one example, the grip <NUM> extends upwardly from the elongate member <NUM> at a <NUM> degree angle α relative to a longitudinal axis A defined by the elongate member <NUM>. It will be understood that the grip <NUM> may extend upwardly from the elongate member <NUM> at any angle α between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees relative to the longitudinal axis A of the elongate member <NUM>.

When the elongate member <NUM> of the first handle assembly <NUM> is pivoted downward, the elongate member <NUM> pivots inwardly at least partially toward the mattress <NUM>, and partially toward the second handle assembly <NUM>. The first handle assembly <NUM> pivots directly over the head portion <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. As a result, the additional space provided by the recess <NUM> is not impinged. The second handle assembly <NUM> works in a similar fashion to the first handle assembly <NUM> and rotates inwardly at least partially toward the mattress <NUM>, and partially toward the first handle assembly <NUM>. Once again, the second handle assembly <NUM> pivots directly over the head portion <NUM> and does not impinge on the space provided by the recess <NUM> so that the caregiver has additional space to access an occupant of the bed <NUM> or to walk behind the bed <NUM>, without the legs of the caregiver striking or hitting the frame.

It will be understood that the grip <NUM> on each handle <NUM> of each handle assembly <NUM> may include a variety of features, including the controls <NUM> to operate the motorized unit <NUM> (<FIG>). The motorized unit <NUM> can include a motor configured to move the bed <NUM> in a forward, rearward, or sideways direction. The grip <NUM> of each handle assembly <NUM> may include one or more indents <NUM> (<FIG>) to accommodate a hand of the user or caregiver. The indents <NUM> may define outer boundaries for the hand of the user and/or features to form a more ergonomic grasp for the user. In addition, it will be understood that when in the upright, deployed position, each handle assembly <NUM> affords a substantial width of space W<NUM> that is equal to or greater than a width of the space W<NUM> defined by the recess <NUM> of the head portion <NUM>.

With regard to <FIG>, the grip <NUM> is illustrated extending at a <NUM> degree angle α relative to the longitudinal axis A of the elongate member <NUM>. It will be understood that the grip <NUM> may extend at any angle α between <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees relative to the longitudinal axis A of the elongate member <NUM>. It will also be noted that the grip <NUM> may be constructed of a polymeric high friction material, such as Santoprene™, that is easily graspable by the caregiver. The elongate member <NUM> is generally defined by a tubular pole configured to house power and possibly data lines, which is advantageous when the handle assembly <NUM> includes the controls <NUM> (<FIG>). However, the elongate member <NUM> could take on other constructions and shapes.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the handle assembly <NUM> is operable between the deployed position (<FIG>) and the stowed position (<FIG>). When in the deployed position, the handle assembly <NUM> extends vertically from the head portion <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. It may be beneficial for the user to push the handle assemblies <NUM> when the handle assemblies <NUM> are in the deployed position. The handle assemblies <NUM> can provide an ergonomic posture for pushing the bed <NUM>.

When the elongate member <NUM> is rotated downward against, or in close proximity to, the head portion <NUM> of the frame <NUM>, the elongate member <NUM> and the grip <NUM> do not extend into the space defined by the recess <NUM>. Rather, each handle assembly <NUM> rotates inwardly and slightly toward the mattress <NUM>. Each handle assembly <NUM> pivots directly over the head portion <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. When in the stowed position, the elongate member <NUM> and the grip <NUM> extend between the rear wall <NUM> of the recess <NUM> and the head end <NUM> of the mattress <NUM>.

When in the stowed position, the handle assembly <NUM> can extend at an acute angle relative to the outer edge <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. In a specific non-limiting example, the handle assembly <NUM> and the outer edge <NUM> of the frame <NUM> can define an angle of <NUM> degrees. However, it is contemplated that the handle assembly <NUM> can extend at any angle between about <NUM> degree and about <NUM> degrees relative to the outer edge <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. The angled-orientation of the handle assembly <NUM> can prevent the handle assembly <NUM> from impeding on the space defined by the recess <NUM> when in the deployed position, the stowed position, and when pivoting therebetween. Accordingly, the caregiver has increased access to an occupant of the bed <NUM> when each handle assembly <NUM> is in the deployed position and in the stowed position.

Use of the present device may provide for a variety of advantages. For example, the frame <NUM> defines the recess <NUM> in the head portion <NUM> to provide greater access to a head area of the patient on the bed <NUM>. Further, the opposing sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> of the recess <NUM> extend at an oblique angle from the rear wall <NUM> of the recess <NUM> to provide increased comfort for the caregiver. Additionally, the grip <NUM> can extend at an acute angle α from the distal end <NUM> of the elongate member <NUM> relative to the longitudinal extent of the elongate member <NUM>. The angle α of the grip <NUM> can prevent the grip <NUM> from impinging the space defined by the recess <NUM>. Moreover, each handle assembly <NUM> can extend at an acute angle relative to the outer edge <NUM> of the frame <NUM> when in the stowed position. The angle of the elongate member <NUM> can prevent the handle assembly <NUM> from impinging the space defined by the recess <NUM>. Accordingly, the handle assembly <NUM> can pivot directly over the head portion <NUM> of the frame <NUM> and extend between the rear wall <NUM> of the recess <NUM> and the head end <NUM> of the mattress <NUM>. These and other benefits or advantages can also be realized and/or achieved.

It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure, as shown in the exemplary embodiments, is illustrative only. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts, or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments.

Claim 1:
A patient support apparatus (<NUM>), comprising:
a mattress (<NUM>) having a head end (<NUM>);
a frame (<NUM>) configured to support the mattress (<NUM>), wherein the frame (<NUM>) includes a head portion (<NUM>) that extends beyond the head end (<NUM>) of the mattress (<NUM>), wherein the head portion (<NUM>) of the frame (<NUM>) defines a recess (<NUM>), and wherein opposing sidewalls (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the recess (<NUM>) each extend at an oblique angle from a rear wall (<NUM>) of the recess (<NUM>);
a first handle assembly (<NUM>) pivotally coupled to a first side of the head portion (<NUM>), the first handle assembly (<NUM>) including an elongate member (<NUM>) and a grip (<NUM>); and
a second handle assembly (<NUM>) pivotally coupled to a second side of the head portion (<NUM>), the second handle assembly (<NUM>) including an elongate member (<NUM>) and a grip (<NUM>),
wherein each of the first handle assembly (<NUM>) and the second handle assembly (<NUM>) are operable between a stowed position and a deployed position,
wherein each of the first handle assembly (<NUM>) and the second handle assembly (<NUM>) are configured to be rotated downward to be disposed over the head portion (<NUM>) and extend between the rear wall (<NUM>) and the head end (<NUM>) when in the stowed position,
characterized by that
the elongate member (<NUM>) and the grip (<NUM>) of each of the first handle assembly (<NUM>) and the second handle assembly (<NUM>) do not extend into a space defined by the recess (<NUM>) when the first handle assembly (<NUM>) and the second handle assembly (<NUM>) are rotated downward and extending over the head portion (<NUM>) in the stowed position.