Patent Application
20120025555
Shelter from the elements is a basic human need. Over the years, a number of structures have been developed to satisfy this need. For example, structures such as homes, apartments, condominiums, and the like have been used to effectively provide shelter from the elements. In addition to these immobile structures, mobile structures such as land vehicles, aircraft, watercraft, and the like have also been used to effectively shelter and/or transport people. Many of these structures are used not just to provide shelter but also to provide living quarters.
Ever since people began to use structures as living quarters, there has been an almost universal desire to increase the size and comfort provided by these structures. This is true regardless of whether the structure is mobile or immobile. For immobile structures, this desire is manifest by the continually increasing size of homes, apartments, condominiums, hotels, and the like. In the context of mobile structures, the desire for more space and comfort is manifest by the increased size of land vehicles, aircraft, watercraft, and the like. The size of immobile structures may be limited by a number of factors such as cost, available real estate in the area, government regulations, and the like. The size of mobile structures may be limited by transportation regulations set by the government (e.g., width of a road vehicle, length of a road vehicle, etc.) and by the physical dimensions of the roads (e.g., width of a travel lane, distance between railroad tracks, height of bridges, etc.) or other medium of transportation (e.g., waterways, etc.). Also building larger structures may unnecessarily increase the consumption of valuable resources (e.g., land, steel, wood, etc.). Accordingly, it would be desirable to more effectively utilize the space in structures without increasing the “footprint” of the structures.
One type of vehicle where it may be desirable to more effectively utilize the space are “toy hauler” type recreational vehicles. Toy haulers may differ from other types of recreational vehicles in a number of ways. For example, toy haulers include a cargo area which is used to receive and transport off-road vehicles. Because of the cargo area, the toy hauler may have different characteristics than other recreational vehicles. For instance, in many recreational vehicles, the integrity of the body may be reinforced using a number of techniques such as coupling cabinets to both the side walls and the ceiling of the vehicle, using interior walls extending between the ceiling and the floor, and the like. These techniques are often not used in the cargo area of a toy hauler in an effort to maximize the amount of cargo space. The lack of these reinforcement techniques combined with the rear wall being used as a door or ramp to load the off-road vehicles (i.e., the rear wall is not a rigid stationary structure) may contribute to flexing, swaying, etc. of the side walls in the area adjacent to the cargo area. This may be a problem when the toy hauler is traveling at high speeds, in high winds, or over rough surfaces (e.g., washboard gravel roads, unmaintained backcountry roads, and the like). The flexing, swaying, and the like may cause an object such as a bed coupled between the side walls to dislodge and fall during travel. Off-road vehicles positioned in the cargo area may be damaged by the falling bed. In light of these problems, it would be desirable to provide an improved system to securely hold and move the bed or other objects to prevent such an occurrence.
In the past, there have been attempts to more effectively utilize space inside structures by using a system which moves a bed to a use position at night and a stowed position during the day. Thus, the space taken up by the bed is capable of being utilized for other purposes when the bed is not being used for sleeping. Unfortunately, these systems suffered from a number of problems. For example, many of these systems were considered unreliable and difficult to maintain and operate. These problems may have inhibited the widespread adoption of these systems. Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide an improved system for moving objects that is more reliable and effective for its intended use.
The subject matter described herein generally relates to systems and methods for moving objects in a wide variety of settings. For example, the systems described herein may be used to move objects or items such as furniture (e.g., seating units such as sofas, couches, chairs, benches, and the like; sleeping units such as beds, mattresses, and the like; dining units such as dinettes, tables, counters, and the like; desks; workbenches; entertainment centers; and the like), appliances (e.g., heating units such as stoves, microwaves, toaster ovens, and the like; refrigerators; dishwashers; and the like), storage units (e.g., cupboards, cabinets, counters, shelves, and the like), sinks, platforms (e.g., platform which is used to raise and/or lower an off-road vehicle to allow additional off-road vehicles to be placed in a recreational vehicle commonly referred to as a “toy hauler,” a bed, and the like), slide-outs for recreational vehicles (patios, slide-out compartments or rooms, storage compartments, and the like), and the like. The systems may be used to move the objects vertically, horizontally, or any direction in between.
The systems described herein may also be used with a wide variety of mobile and immobile structures. Mobile structures include, but are not limited to, structures such as land vehicles (e.g., recreational vehicles, trailers, motorized vehicles, vehicles used to travel on a road, wheeled vehicles, railroad cars, buses, semi-trucks, and the like), watercraft (e.g., ships, boats, houseboats, cruise ships, yachts, and the like), aircraft, and any other mobile vehicles. Immobile structures include, but are not limited to, structures such as a building, edifice, etc.
In one embodiment, the systems described herein may be used with structures that are used as or include living quarters. For example, the systems may be used with any of the mobile and immobile structures previously described which may be used as living quarters. Structures which may be used as living quarters include, but are not limited to, homes, houses, residences, condominiums, abodes, dwellings, lodgings, recreational vehicles (e.g., travel trailers, fifth wheels, truck campers, “toy haulers,” snowmobile trailers, motor homes, car haulers (e.g., vehicles used to haul cars and/or other vehicles to races such as NASCAR races, etc.) and the like), houseboats, cruise ships, and the like. In another embodiment, any structure which is suitable for or designed principally for habitation by people either on a permanent (e.g., a house) or a temporary (e.g., hotel) basis may be used with the described and illustrated systems.
In the following description, reference is made to a number of embodiments which illustrate the use of the system for vertically moving objects. Although only a few embodiments are shown, it should be understood that the systems, concepts, and features described herein may also be used in a variety of settings and situations in addition to those explicitly described. Also, the features, advantages, characteristics, etc. of one embodiment of the system for moving objects may be combined with the features, advantages, characteristics, etc., of any one or more other embodiments to form additional embodiments unless noted otherwise.
Referring to
Although a vehicle and, in particular, a “toy hauler” type of recreational vehicle is referred to in many of the embodiments described herein, it should be understood that these embodiments are provided as examples of the many structures which may include system 12. Also, using a “toy hauler” as an example of a suitable structure is not meant in any way to restrict or otherwise constrain the applicability of the concepts and features of the embodiments described to other types of structures and, in particular, to other types of recreational vehicles. Accordingly, there are a wide variety of structures which may use the systems described herein.
As shown in
The rear wall 22 may be pivotally coupled to the remainder of the body 20 at axis 32 using a suitable hinge or other pivoting mechanism (not shown). The rear wall 22 may be held in the closed position using any of a number of suitable latching mechanisms. In one embodiment, the rear wall 22 may be leveled in the open position and used as a floor for an accessory room. The walls of the room may be provided using fabric (e.g., fabric commonly used to make tents, etc.) which is supported by a room frame (e.g., flexible or rigid frame members such as those used for a tent). The room frame may be coupled to one or both of the rear wall 22 and the remainder of the body 20.
In another embodiment, the rear wall 22 may be configured to telescope longitudinally in the open position to reduce the angle of the rear wall 22 relative to the floor 26. Reducing the angle may reduce the likelihood of an off-road vehicle high-centering at the interface of the rear wall 22 and the floor 26 when the off-road vehicle is loaded and/or unloaded. As shown in
The system 12, shown in the embodiment of
In general, the lifting assemblies 30 are used to vertically move a bed 40—alternatively referred to herein as a bunk or berth—between a first or use position where the bed 40 is positioned in the cargo area 28 and a second or stowed position where the bed 40 is positioned adjacent to the ceiling 24, as shown in outline in
In an alternative embodiment, the lifting assemblies 30 may be used to vertically move the bed 40 to a stowed position beneath the floor 26 of the vehicle 10. For example, a storage cavity or recess may be provided beneath the floor 26 which is used to receive the bed 40 in the stowed position. One or more doors may be provided to cover the cavity when the bed 40 is positioned in the floor 26 (e.g., doors may be pivotally or slidably coupled to the floor 26). The lifting assemblies 30 may be configured to extend down into the cavity to lower the bed 40 into the cavity. Alternatively, the lifting assemblies 30 may be configured to move the bed 40 into and/or out of the cavity without the lifting assemblies 30 extending into the cavity. For example, the bed 40 may be coupled to the lifting assemblies 30 at a point which is vertically offset above the bed 40 a sufficient amount to allow the bed 40 to be lowered into the cavity but maintain the point where the bed 40 is coupled to the lifting assemblies 30 above the floor 26. In one embodiment, an L-shaped bracket may be used to provide the offset coupling of the bed 40 to the lifting assemblies 30. When the bed 40 is positioned in the cavity beneath the floor 26, the bracket may extend upward from the bed 40, through a relatively small and inconspicuous opening in the floor 26, and to the point where the bracket is coupled to the lifting assembly 30. Thus, the lifting assemblies 30 may be used to move the bed 40 between a use position and a stowed position in the cavity.
In another embodiment, the ceiling 24 may include a storage cavity or recess which is used to receive the bed 40 in the stowed position. The cavity may be slightly larger than the bed 40 in order to at least substantially conceal the bed 40 in the stowed position. When the bed 40 is positioned in the cavity it may also be substantially flush with the ceiling 24 to provide an aesthetically pleasing and/or hidden appearance. In another embodiment, one or more doors (e.g., doors which pivot downward from the ceiling 24, doors which slide parallel and adjacent to the ceiling 24, and so forth) may also be used to enclose or conceal the bed 40 in the cavity.
Referring to
In general terms, the system 12 may be used to move the bed 40 between the use position and the stowed position. The bed 40, as shown in
Depending on the embodiment, the system 12 may be used to vertically move the bed 40 a variety of distances. For example, in the embodiment shown in
The bed 40, as shown in the embodiment of
In the embodiment shown in
In another embodiment, at least a portion of the bed frame 54 may be made using a molded plastic. Using molded plastic may provide a lighter bed frame 54 than may be achieved using materials such as plywood. This allows the user to carry more in the vehicle 10 without exceeding weight limits set by the government/manufacturer of the vehicle 10. In one embodiment, the bed frame 54 may be made using blow molding, rotational molding, thermosetting injection molding, or any other suitable plastic molding process. Regardless of the material or combination of materials used, the bed frame 54 may be configured as a lattice like structure, a solid contiguous piece, etc.
As shown in
With continued reference to
At a general level, the support assemblies 60 are coupled to the vehicle 10 and are used to support the bed 40 and/or guide the vertical movement of the bed 40. Thus, the support assemblies 60 may be stationary relative to the vehicle 10. The moving assemblies 50 may be coupled to the bed 40 and used to move the bed 40 relative to the vehicle 10. The moving assemblies 50 cooperate with the support assemblies 60 to vertically move the bed 40 in a secure and controlled manner.
In one embodiment, each of the moving assemblies 50 may be identical to and/or interchangeable with the other moving assemblies 50. Using interchangeable moving assemblies 50 may make it easier to manufacture and inventory the moving assemblies 50. In other embodiments, one or more of the moving assemblies 50 may be custom made and/or not be interchangeable with the other moving assemblies 50. For example, the interior features of the vehicle 10 may require the use of different moving assemblies 50. In a similar manner, each of the support assemblies 60 may also be identical to and/or interchangeable with the other support assemblies 60 with the understanding, as previously explained in connection with the moving assemblies 50, that there may be situations where it is desirable to use custom and/or non-interchangeable support assemblies 60.
At a general level, the motor assembly 36 is used to provide the driving force to move the moving assemblies 50 in cooperation with the support assemblies 60. In one embodiment, the motor assembly 36 provides rotational motion (e.g., rotating shaft, rotating sleeve, etc.) which is used to move the moving assemblies 50. The drive members 34 may be used to transmit the driving force provided by the motor assembly 36 to the moving assemblies 50. In this embodiment, the drive members 34 are rigid and transmit rotational motion from the motor assembly 36 to the moving assemblies 50. Examples of suitable rigid drive members may include metal, plastic, or composite, shafts, tubes, beams, rods, etc. In other embodiments, the drive members 34 may be flexible and perform the same function. Examples of suitable flexible drive members may include chains, cables, straps, toothed belts, and the like. The flexible drive members may be configured to extend between rotatable members (e.g., sprockets, pulleys, shafts, etc.) which may be used to transmit the rotary motion through the flexible drive members.
It should be appreciated that the drive members 34 and the motor assembly 36 may be provided in many widely varying configurations. For example, the embodiment shown in
The motor assembly 36 may also be provided in any of a number of configurations such as those shown in the embodiments of
In
In
In another embodiment, the support assembly 60c may be coupled to the first side wall 16 in a selectively releasable manner. A person using the vehicle 10 may be able to selectively couple and decouple the support assembly 60c from the first side wall 16, and, thus, couple and decouple the lifting assemblies 30 from the vehicle 10. When the system 12 is desired to be used for a particular outing, the system 12 may be coupled to the vehicle 10. However, in situations where the system 12 is not needed, the system 12 may be decoupled or removed from the vehicle 10.
In the embodiment shown in
In one embodiment, the engaging portion 68 may include a plurality of openings 82—alternatively referred to herein as holes, apertures, or slots—which cooperate with the gear 70. As shown in
Referring to
Referring to
The cross-section of the support member 64 can be varied as desired and according to the particular use thereof. For example, the support member 64 may have other configurations such as square, rectangular, polygonal, or other configurations so long as the configuration allows the support member 64 to perform the general functions described and shown herein. The support member 64 may be made of any of a number of suitable materials. For example, the support member 64 may include metals, plastics, composites, fibrous materials, or the like so long as the material has sufficient strength to support the raising and lowering of the bed 40 or other objects. In one embodiment, the support member 64 may be made of a steel material of a suitable gauge to perform the general functions described herein yet without being overly heavy (e.g., 11 gauge steel).
In another embodiment, the support member 64 may be integrally formed with and/or recessed within the first side wall 16 of the vehicle 10 in order to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance and/or to provide additional stability and/or strength. For example, the support member 64 may be formed by directly coupling the first plate member 92, shown in
Referring back to
The support member 64, as previously discussed, supports much of the weight associated with the bed 40, thereby acting as a load bearing member. When the size of the bed 40 increases or additional beds are coupled to the support member 64, the load on the support member 64 increases. Thus, it may be desirable to provide a stronger backing member 66.
As shown in
Referring back to the embodiment of
As shown in
The moving member 80 includes a first side 124, a second side 126, and a base 128. The first securing flange 76 and the second securing flange 78 extend from the first side 124 and the second side 126, respectively, towards each other to form a gap 118 there between. In one embodiment, the moving member 80 may have a C shaped cross-section (e.g., a C-channel). However, it may be appreciated that a wide variety of cross sectional configurations may be provided for the moving member 80. As previously discussed, the support member 64 may be configured to be positioned in the gap 118 with the flanges 72, 74 of the support member 64 slidably cooperating with the flanges 76, 78 of the moving member 80. In this manner, the moving member 80 may be securely yet movably coupled to the support member 64 and used to move the bed 40. It should be appreciated that other configurations may also be used to provide a secure and movable relationship between the moving member 80 and the support member 64.
Mounting members 110, 112, 114—alternatively referred to herein as mounting brackets or support flanges—extend outwardly from and perpendicularly to the base 128, the first side 124, and the second side 126, respectively. The mounting members 110, 112, 114 are used to couple and/or support the bed 40 on the moving assembly 50c. To this end, the mounting member 110 includes an aperture or hole 122 which may be configured to receive a corresponding mounting element (e.g., pin) from the bed 40.
The first side 124, the second side 126, the base 128, and the flanges 76, 78 all cooperate to define a channel 120 along a longitudinal direction of the moving member 80. The cross braces 116 extend between the first side 124 and the second side 126 to prevent the sides 124, 126 from spreading apart during repeated use. In the embodiment shown in
Referring to
A roller mounting structure or roller mount 136 is also disposed at the lower end 132. The roller mounting structure 136 includes two holes 138 formed in the first side 124 and the second side 126. The holes 138 are capable of cooperating with the roller assembly 100 to secure the roller assembly 100 to the moving member 80. It should be appreciated that various other structure may also be used to couple the roller assembly 100 to the moving member 80 such as brackets, etc. In another embodiment, the holes 138 may be tapered to cause a friction fit with the roller assembly 100. In yet another embodiment, the holes 138 may include bushing protrusions that cooperate with bushings included as part of the roller assembly 100.
The roller assembly 100 includes a support shaft 130 and a roller 140. The support shaft 130 is sized to securely fit within the holes 138 and an axial hole 142 which extends through the roller 140. The holes 138 and axial hole 142 are sized and configured to allow the roller 140 to rotate about the support shaft 130 and/or to allow the support shaft 130 to rotate within the holes 138. In one embodiment, the support shaft 130 includes two fastening grooves 144 formed in the surface thereof, which are adapted to receive fastening clips 146. In one embodiment, as shown in
When the support member 64 is positioned in the gap 118 that is part of the channel 120, the roller 140 is disposed in the recess 69 and cooperates with the engaging portion 68. The roller 140 is sized and positioned to securely hold the flanges 72, 74 of the support member 64 in snug cooperation with the flanges 74, 78 of the moving member 80. In this manner, undesired movement (e.g., excessive play, etc.) between the moving assembly 50c and the support assembly 60c may be reduced. Because the flanges 72, 74 of the support member 64 may be configured to slide in continual contact with the flanges 76, 78 of the moving member 80, wear guides or wear strips 148 may be placed over (e.g., as a sleeve, etc.) or between any one or more of the flanges 72, 74, 76, 78 to minimize friction, wear, etc. The wear guides 148 may be any suitable low friction material such as a polymeric material, etc. In one embodiment the wear guides 148 may comprise a nylon material available from Petro Extrusion Technologies, 490 South Avenue, Garwood, N.J. 07027 as “Hyla-Glide with Moly,” as item number 06-287-14. The wear guides 148 may be coupled to the flanges 76, 78 using any of a number of suitable fasteners. In one embodiment, the wear guides 148 may be coupled to the flanges 76, 78 using glue or adhesive strips. A mechanical divet may also be placed at each end of the wear guides 148. The divets may extend through the wear guides 148 and into the flanges 76, 78. By configuring the flanges 72, 76 and the flanges 74, 78 to cooperate in sliding contact with each other, it may be possible to attain a tight fit between the support member 64 and the moving member 80 which may otherwise be difficult to obtain using other configurations and methods. That being said, other configurations and methods may also be used to move the moving assembly 50c relative to the support assembly 60c depending on the desired end use, cost, and manufacturing efficiencies.
With continued reference to
The roller 140 may be composed of various types of materials such as metal, composites, plastics, and the like. In one embodiment the roller 140 is composed of a plastic material such as an acetal polymer (e.g., Delrin® available from DuPont). In addition to the embodiments of the roller 140 described herein, additional embodiments are also contemplated. For example, bearing rollers and other like rollers may also be used.
In another embodiment, the flanges 76, 78 may be U-shaped and define a channel which is configured to receive the flanges 72, 74 on the support member 64. Since the flanges 72, 74 are secured in the channels defined by the flanges 76, 78, the roller assembly 100 may be eliminated. The wear guides 148 may also be positioned between the flanges 72, 74 and the U-shaped channel to reduce the friction. Many other embodiments may also be provided to securely guide the movement of the moving members 80 in cooperation with the support members 64.
The mounting members 110, 112, 114, and a drive mounting structure or gear mount 156 are disposed at an upper or second end 154 of the moving assembly 50c. The drive mounting structure 156 includes two bushing protrusions 158 which extend outwardly from respective surfaces of the first side 124 and the second side 126 in a direction away from the channel 120. The bushing protrusions 158 define holes 162 in the sides 124, 126 which receive the drive mechanism 90 and cooperate therewith to allow rotation of the gear 70. It should be appreciated that various other configurations of the drive mounting structure 156 may be used. For example, in an alternative embodiment, the drive mounting structure 156 may utilize holes that have the form of an oblong slot extending to the end of the first side 124 or second side 126, distal from the base 128. In this embodiment, the slot may be capped with a securing flange that closes the open end thereof thereby coupling the drive mechanism 90 to the moving assembly 50c. In another embodiment, the bushing protrusions 158 may be detachable and secured to the moving member 80 by way of one or more fasteners. In yet another embodiment, the drive mounting structure 156 may include a hole that has an interior tapered form that frictionally retains the drive mechanism 90 to the moving member 80.
With continued reference to
In one embodiment, the gear 70 comprises a first portion 172 and a second portion 174 which may be coupled together to form the gear 70. The second portion 174 includes a hexagonal shaped protrusion 176 which is received by a corresponding hexagonal shaped recess (not shown) in the first portion 172 to securely hold the portions 172, 174 together. The gear 70 may be provided in two portions to facilitate making the gear from powdered metal. In other embodiments, the gear 70 may be machined or the like to provide a single component. Spacers 178 positioned between the sides 124, 126 and the portions 172, 174 of the gear 70 may be used to hold the portions 172, 174 in engagement with each other. The spacers 178 may also serve to position the gear 70 in the middle of the gap 118 to cooperate with the engaging portion 68 of the support member 64.
The gear 70 may also be configured to include two cylindrical surfaces 182 positioned adjacent to and on each side of the teeth 96. The surfaces 182 cooperate with the engaging portion 68 of the support member 64 to provide a snug or tight fit between the flanges 72, 76 and the flanges 74, 78 in a manner similar to the roller 140. In effect, the gear 70 may also function as a roller. In should be understood that in other embodiments, the gear 70 may be configured without the surfaces 182. For example, another roller 140 may be provided adjacent to the gear 70 to maintain the flanges 72, 74 of support member 64 in cooperation with the flanges 76, 78 of the moving member 80. In another embodiment, the gear 70 may be configured without the surfaces 182, and the moving member 80 may be configured without another roller 140 adjacent to the gear 70. Many other embodiments for accomplishing the same result may also be used.
The gear 70 is adapted to cooperate with the drive shaft 150c. In general, the gear 70 has a generally cylindrical form with a plurality of teeth 96 extending outwardly from a surface thereof. The teeth 96 are configured to cooperate with the openings 82 in the support member 64, as shown in
The gear 70 includes a retaining hole 186 which passes through the gear 70 and is sized similarly to a retaining hole 188 in the drive shaft 150c. As shown in
As illustrated in
Referring back to
It should be appreciated that various configurations of the drive mechanism 90 may be used as long as the drive mechanism 90 is capable of moving the moving assembly 50c in cooperation with the support assembly 60c. For example, the gear 70 may be welded, brazed, or joined to the drive shaft 150c. In another embodiment, the drive shaft 150c may include holes that accommodate split pins that prevent the drive shaft 150c from coming out of the holes 162 in the moving member 80. In another embodiment, two gears 70 may be coupled to the drive shaft 150c and used to cooperate with a support member having two sets of openings 82. Accordingly, the number and configuration of the components included with the drive mechanism 90 may be widely varied as desired.
It should also be appreciated that various configurations of the moving assembly 50c may also be used. For example, in one embodiment, the drive mechanism 90 may be positioned at the lower end 132 of the moving assembly 50c and the roller assembly 100 may be positioned at the upper end 154 of the moving assembly 50c. In another embodiment, the moving assembly 50c may be shorter or longer than the embodiment shown in
Referring to
The motor assembly 36 includes an electric motor 160 which is coupled to a motor housing 198. The motor housing 198 includes one or more apertures 202 which can receive fasteners (not shown) to couple the motor housing 198 to the moving assembly 50a. Although the motor housing 198 is shown being coupled directly to the moving assembly 50a, in another embodiment, apertures 202 may receive fasteners (not shown) which couple the motor housing 198 to a bracket which in turn may be coupled to the moving assembly 50a. In general, the motor assembly 36 may be coupled to the moving assembly 50a in many different ways.
With continued reference to
Disposed within the motor housing 198 are one or more gears or linkages (not shown) which may be used to convert or translate rotary motion of a motor shaft (not shown) of the motor 160 into rotary motion of a drive sleeve 208. The drive sleeve 208 may be used to transmit the rotary motion to a drive shaft 220 and a drive shaft 150a, both of which may, in turn, transmit the rotary motion to the drive members 34 and the gears 70 in the lifting assemblies 30. Although reference is made to the use of the electric motor 160, it should be appreciated that various other types of activation assemblies may be used such as pneumatic, hydraulic, gasoline, or the like.
In one embodiment, the motor 160 is at least about a ⅛ horsepower motor, or, desirably, at least about a 3/16 horsepower motor, or, suitably at least about ¼ horsepower motor. Also, the motor assembly 36 may provide a gear reduction ratio of at least about 100:1, or, desirably, at least about 150:1, or, suitably, at least about 200:1. A 200:1 ratio may provide the motor 160 with desirable speed versus torque characteristics for vertically moving the bed 40. The motor 160 may be configured to rotate the drive shafts 150a, 220 between about 15 rpm and 35 rpm, or, desirably, between about 20 rpm and 30 rpm, or suitably, about 25 rpm. A motor having these characteristics may be custom designed, or such a motor may be obtained from Stature Electric Inc. of 22543 Fisher Rd. Watertown, N.Y. 13601 as part number 5029.002. The motor 160 may be a direct current motor or an alternating current motor. Typically, but not always, direct current motors are used in mobile structures while alternating current motors are used in immobile structures.
In one embodiment, the motor assembly 36 may be configured to move the moving assemblies 50 between about 2 inches to about 6 inches (or about 5.1 centimeters to about 15.2 centimeters), or, desirably, between about 3 inches to about 5 inches (or about 7.6 centimeters to about 12.7 centimeters), or, suitably, about 4 inches (or about 10.2 centimeters) for each revolution of the drive shafts 150. This may be done without using intermediate reduction gears by configuring the motor assembly 36 with a suitable ratio such as at least about 150:1 or, suitably, 200:1 and by configuring the gear 70 with a suitable diameter such as no more than about 3 inches (or about 7.6 centimeters), or, desirably, no more than about 2 inches (or about 5.1 centimeters), or, suitably no more than about 1.5 inches (or about 3.8 centimeters).
With continued reference to
In one embodiment, the motor 160 includes a brake or brake member (not shown) which may be used to hold the bed 40 in a fixed position when the motor 160 is not activated. The brake may be coupled to an end 228 of the motor 160 which is distal to the motor housing 198. In one embodiment, the brake is an electrical/mechanical brake that may be used to prevent movement of the motor 160 when electricity is not provided to the brake. When electricity is provided, (e.g., when the motor 160 is activated) the brake is deactivated to allow the motor 160 to move the bed 40. The brake may include a manual actuation device which can be used to selectively deactivate the brake even when electricity is not provided to the brake. For example, if no electricity is available to deactivate the brake, then the manual actuation device may be used to deactivate the brake and allow the user to manually move the bed 40. A suitable brake of this type may be obtained from Stature Electric Inc. as part number 9550-799.
The motor 160 may be activated using a switch device coupled to the interior of the vehicle 10. In one embodiment, the switch device may be any suitable switch such as a three way rocker switch. In another embodiment, the motor 160 may be controlled using a switch device which includes access control measures. For example, the switch device may be covered by a locked door (e.g., switch is recessed in a wall of the vehicle 10) to prevent access to the switch by those who do not have access privileges to the door. The door may be opened using a corresponding key, combination, etc., so that only those with the key, combination, etc. can access and/or activate the switch device. In another embodiment, the switch device may be coupled to a keypad which is used to receive a security code to allow the switch device to be actuated. In one embodiment, the motor 160 may be configured to allow the switch device to operate for a set time after the code has been entered. Once that set time expires, then the switch device is inoperable and the code must be entered again.
In another embodiment, the motor 160 may be controlled using an electronic control system (not shown). The control system may include a microprocessor and memory. The memory may be used to store set points representing positions of the bed 40. The control system may be configured to use feedback control to move the bed 40 repeatedly to the same position (e.g., use position, stowed position, etc.) with the push of a button (e.g., button labeled stow and button labeled deploy, each of which operate as indicated by their labels). The control system may be configured to allow the user to selectively input the desired position of the bed 40. In another embodiment, the set points in the control system may be set by the manufacturer of the vehicle 10.
The control system may include a number of sensors which are used to measure the position of the bed 40 as it moves vertically. The control system may then be used to repeatedly move the bed 40 between the desired use position and/or stowed position. In one embodiment, an encoder may be coupled to the motor 160 or any of the drive shafts 150, 220 or the drive members 34 to continually monitor the position of the bed 40. The encoder may provide a higher degree of accuracy and control than may otherwise be available using the proximity switch. Other position sensors may also be used such as rotary potentiometers, hall effect sensors, and the like. In one embodiment, the position sensor and the motor 160 may be one integral unit.
In yet another embodiment, the system 12 may include two motor assemblies 36 that are coupled to the control system. For example, one motor assembly 36 may be coupled to moving assembly 50a and another motor assembly 36 may be coupled to the moving assembly 50b. The vertical movement of the bed 40 may be controlled by monitoring the movement of one of the motors 160 and controlling the movement of the other motor 160 based on the movement of the one motor 160. For instance an encoder may be coupled to the one motor 160 which provides a feedback signal to the control system indicating the position/rate of movement of the one motor 160. The feedback signal may be used to control the other motor 160 to move similarly to the one motor 160.
In another embodiment, a proximity switch, such as a micro switch, may be used to stop the movement of the bed 40 at the desired use position and/or stowed position. The proximity switch may be vertically adjustable so that the desired final position of the bed 40 may be adjusted accordingly. In one embodiment, the proximity switch may be configured to cut the power to the motor 160. In another embodiment, the proximity switch may be configured to provide feedback to the control system to stop the motor 160.
Referring to
Referring to
In one embodiment, each of the moving members 80 include holes 230 on both the first side 124 and the second side 126. Holes 230 may be used to couple the transmissions 200 to either or both of the sides 124, 126. Thus, the moving assembly 50a may be provided by coupling the transmission 200 to the first side 124, and the moving assembly 50b may be provided by coupling the transmission 200 to the second side 126. In this manner, a single configuration for the moving assembly 50a may be used to provide both the moving assemblies 50a, 50b. In other embodiments, the moving member 80 may be configured to be coupled to the transmission 200 on only one side.
One embodiment of the transmission 200 is shown in greater detail in
The bushing protrusions 238, 244 define apertures 246, 248, respectively, configured to receive respective bushings 250, 252.
It should be appreciated that although the transmission 200 in
Referring to
In one embodiment, the ends 268, 270 and the intermediate portions 272, 274, 276 of the drive shaft 226a may be progressively larger in diameter to facilitate positioning the drive shaft 226a through the bushings 250, 252 and the second bevel gear 264. For example, the first end 268 may have a diameter which is smaller than the diameter of the first intermediate portion 272, which, in turn, is smaller than the diameter of the second intermediate portion 274. In this manner, the first end 268 may be inserted through the bushing 252 and the second bevel gear 264 before being positioned in the bushing 250. Likewise, the first intermediate portion 272 may be inserted through the bushing 252 before being received by the second bevel gear 264. In this embodiment, the bushings 250, 252 are different sizes to correspond to the different diameters of the first end 268 and the second intermediate portion 274, respectively, of the drive shaft 226a.
Referring to
In operation, rotational motion is transmitted from the motor assembly 36 through the drive shaft 150a to the first bevel gear 254. The teeth 262 of the first bevel gear 254 cooperate with the teeth 282 of the second bevel gear 264 to rotate the second bevel gear 264 on an axis which is offset 90 degrees from the rotational axis of the first bevel gear 254. The rotational motion is transmitted through the drive shaft 226a to the lifting assemblies 30b, 30d coupled to the second side wall 18 of the vehicle 10.
It should be appreciated that the transmission 200 shown in
Referring to
The transmission 200b may be similar to the transmission 200a. In the embodiment shown in
As noted previously, the moving assembly 50b and the support assembly 60b are similar to the moving assembly 50c and the support assembly 60c described in detail previously. However, the moving assembly 50b may include a drive shaft 150b which has a different configuration than the other drive shafts 150a, 150c, 150d. For example, the drive shaft 150b may include a first cylindrical end 290, a second hexagonal end 292, a first hexagonal intermediate portion 294, and a second cylindrical intermediate portion 296. The drive shaft 150b cooperates with the gear 70, the moving member 80, and the transmission 200b in a manner similar to how the drive shaft 150a cooperates with the gear 70, the moving member 80, and the transmission 200a.
It should be appreciated that the support member 64 may be configured to cooperate with the moving assembly 50 in any of a number of ways. For example, a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of one of the lifting assemblies 30 is shown in
In another embodiment (not illustrated), the lifting assembly may include a support member which includes a gear rack and a moving assembly which includes a worm gear. The worm gear may be configured to cooperate with the gear rack to vertically move the bed 40. In one embodiment, the worm gear may be configured to rotate on a vertical axis which is generally parallel to the direction of the gear rack. The worm gears in adjacent lifting assemblies coupled to the same side wall may be moved in unison by a chain which rotates in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and extends between the adjacent worm gears. Another chain or a drive member 34 may be configured to extend between one lifting assembly coupled to one wall and another lifting assembly coupled to an opposite wall. If a drive member 34 is used, transmissions 200 may also be used to translate the rotational motion on the vertical axis to rotational motion of a horizontal drive member 34. It should be appreciated that additional variations and modifications of the various embodiments of the lifting assemblies 30 may also be made.
The combination of the drive mechanisms 90, transmissions 200, motor assembly 36, and drive members 34 provide a drive assembly. In general, the drive assembly refers to those components of the system 12 which may be used to drive movement of the bed 40. Although the drive assembly includes the previously referred to components in the embodiments of
Referring to
In one embodiment, the drive members 34a, 34b, 34c may be configured to be substantially similar to make it easier to manufacture and/or inventory the drive members 34. For example, in one embodiment, the drive members 34a, 34b, 34c may be different lengths (e.g., the drive member 34b may be longer than the drive members 34a, 34c) but otherwise have the same configuration. In other embodiments, each drive member 34 may be unique and configured to cooperate only with specific lifting assemblies 30.
The drive members 34 may be made of any of a number of suitable materials such as plastics, metals, composites, etc. In one embodiment, the drive members 34 may be rigid and made of steel material. The drive members 34 may also have widely varying cross-sections such as cylindrical, tubular, square, hexagonal, octagonal, polygonal, etc. In one embodiment, the drive members 34 may comprise cylindrical tubular members made from steel material. Any suitable material in a variety of configurations may be used.
In
In one embodiment, the desired cross-sectional configuration of the ends 320, 322 may be provided by coupling an insert having the desired cross-section into the channel 318 at each of the ends 320, 322. For example, the inserts may be small sections of tubular material which have an interior cross section configured to engage the drive shafts 226 and are sized to be positioned within the channel 318. In one embodiment, the inserts may include a groove so that the inserts may be secured inside the channel 318 by crimping the ends 320, 322 of the drive member 34b into the groove as shown in
Although the embodiment of the drive member 34b in
A method for coupling the system 12 to the vehicle 10 may include coupling the lifting assembly 30a to the first side wall 16, coupling the lifting assembly 30b to the second side wall 18 and then coupling the drive member 34b between the lifting assemblies 30a, 30b. In one embodiment, the drive member 34b may be positioned between the lifting assemblies 30a, 30b as shown in
Once the biasing member 316 is positioned in engagement with the drive shaft 226b, the first end 320 of the drive member 34b may be moved into cooperation with the drive shaft 226a. In general, this is done by moving the drive member 34b longitudinally in the direction of the drive shaft 226a so that the drive shaft 226a is received in the channel 318, as shown in
Referring to
In one embodiment, the biasing member 316 may be used to bias the drive member 34b towards the spacer 314. This may be desirable for a number of reasons. For example, when the drive member 34b rotates, the drive shafts 226 may move longitudinally away from each other in a screw type motion. When this happens, the transmissions 200a, 200b may be forced away from each other. In extreme situations, the longitudinal displacement of the transmissions 200a, 200b may be sufficient to allow the drive member 34b to become disengaged from one or both of the drive shafts 226. The biasing member 316 may be used to prevent this screw type motion by biasing the drive member 34b towards the spacer 314 and, thus, maintaining the drive member 34b in an engaged configuration with the drive shaft 226a. Also, the screw type motion is prevented because the drive member 34b is being biased towards the drive shaft 226a.
In some situations, the distance between the first side wall 16 and the second side wall 18 of the vehicle 10 varies as the bed 40 is raised and lowered. This may especially be a problem with recreational vehicles, but may also be a problem in other vehicles and even in buildings and other fixed structures. These variations in width between the side walls 16, 18 may be accounted for using the biased drive member 34b. As the width changes, the drive member 34b moves toward and away from the transmission 200b on the drive shaft 226b. In other words, the drive member 34b telescopes in and out relative to the drive shaft 226b to compensate for the changes in the width between the first side wall 16 and the second side wall 18. As the drive member 34b moves in this manner, the biasing member 316 is compressed and decompressed. However, regardless of the width changes, the biasing member 316 maintains the drive member 34b in engagement with the drive shaft 226a.
In one embodiment, the distance between the side walls 16, 18 may change at least about 0.125 inches (or about 3.2 millimeters), or at least about 0.25 inches (or about 6.4 millimeters), or at least about 0.385 inches (or about 9.8 millimeters), or at least about 0.5 inches (or about 12.7 millimeters), or at least about 0.625 inches (or about 15.9 millimeters), or at least about 0.75 inches (or about 19.1 millimeters), as the bed 40 is moved vertically. Depending on the amount of change in the distance between the side walls 16, 18, the length of the drive shaft 226b may be configured to be sufficient to accommodate any of these variations in width and even larger variations in width.
The variations in width between the side walls 16, 18 may also be accounted for in any of a number of additional ways. For example, in another embodiment, shims may be placed between the side walls 16, 18 and one or both of the support assemblies 60a, 60b until the support assemblies 60a, 60b are substantially the same distance apart.
It should be appreciated that the configuration shown in
Referring to
As shown in
The degree of adjustment provided using the configuration shown in
Referring to
Numerous other configurations of the interior surface 326 and the drive shaft 226 may also be used. For example, the drive shaft 226 may include a 12 sided cross section and the interior surface 326 may be hexagonal. In another embodiment, the drive shaft 226 may be square and the interior surface 326 may be square or octagonal. Numerous additional embodiments of this type are also contemplated as being used.
Referring back to
In one embodiment, when two drive shafts 150, 226 (shown in
It should be appreciated that the various configurations of the drive shafts 150, 226 and the drive members 34 may be varied in a number of ways. For example, the cylindrical portions of the drive shafts 150, 226 which may be used to allow the drive members 34 to rotate freely relative to the drive shafts 150, 226 may be provided on any suitable drive shaft 150, 226. For example, the drive shaft 150c and the drive shaft 220 may be configured so that the cylindrical portion is on the drive shaft 150c and the biasing member is positioned in cooperation with the drive shaft 220. In another embodiment, all or substantially all of the drive shafts 150, 226 may be configured to be interchangeable. Thus, each of the drive shafts 150, 226 may include a cylindrical portion. In yet another embodiment, the drive shafts 150, 226 may be provided without a cylindrical portion. In this embodiment, the first end 320 of the drive member 34 completely disengages the drive shafts 150, 226 when moved to the second configuration.
In one embodiment, the second end 168 of the drive shaft 150c may be used to receive a manual actuation device (not shown). The manual actuation device may be something as simple as a socket wrench sized to cooperate with the second end 168. In another embodiment, the manual actuation device may include a crank which is sized to cooperate with the second end 168.
As mentioned previously, the manual actuation device may be used to move the bed 40 when the motor assembly 36 is not available such as when the battery of the vehicle 10 is dead or the motor assembly 36 is not included. In some situations operating the manual actuation device may require driving through the force of the motor 160. However, one potential advantage of this configuration is that the backdriving effect of the motor 160 may act as a brake to prevent the bed 40 from suddenly and unexpectedly lowering. In another embodiment, the system 12 may be provided without the motor assembly 36. In this embodiment, a pawl and sector or ratchet may be provided to allow the bed 40 to be raised with the manual actuation device while also preventing the bed 40 from falling unexpectedly.
Referring to
In one embodiment, the camming device 330 includes a body portion 332 and a cam lever 334. The camming device 330 may include flanges, apertures, and the like so that the camming device 330 may be coupled to the transmissions 200, the moving members 80, or any other component of the system 12. For example, the camming device 330 may be coupled to the transmissions 200 and/or the moving members 80 using a flange in a manner similar to how the transmissions 200 are coupled to the moving members 80. Although the camming device 330 is shown as being square or rectangular in
The coupler 340 has a bottom end 348 adapted to slidably engage a first end 350 of the drive shaft 338. The drive shaft 338 can also rotate on its longitudinal axis but is fixed against longitudinal movement within the camming device 330. The drive shaft 338 may be fixed against longitudinal movement in a number of ways. For example, the drive shaft 338 may be fixably coupled to the second end 322 of the drive member 34b. Also, the drive shaft 338 may include a fastening recess configured to receive a fastening clip. The fastening clip may be received in a bracket coupled to the outside of the body portion 332 to prevent longitudinal movement of the drive shaft 338. The coupler 340 is configured to cooperate with the drive shaft 226b and the first end 350 of the drive shaft 338 such that, in a first orientation, the drive shaft 226b and the drive shaft 338 move together. The coupler 340 is also adapted to slide along the longitudinal axis of the drive shaft 226b and the first end 350 of the drive shaft 338 so that in a second orientation, the drive shaft 226b and the drive shaft 338 move independently of each other. When the coupler 340 is in the first orientation, the lifting assemblies 30a, 30b may move in unison, and when the coupler is in the second orientation, the lifting assemblies 30a, 30b may move independently of each other.
It should be appreciated that various components and configurations for providing the slidable engagement of the coupler 340 and the drive shafts 226b, 338 could be used. For example, the bore 342 may have a 12 sided star cross section (see
A spring or biasing member 352 may be positioned to bias the coupler 340 into engagement with the first end 350 of the drive shaft 338. It should be appreciated that various other ways for providing the biasing force could be used. In one embodiment illustrated in
The cam member 356 is illustrated in the cammed orientation in
As shown in
The cam member 356 is configured to partially encircle the drive shaft 338 in both the cammed and uncammed orientations. When uncammed, the support surface 360 of the cam member 356 is located slightly below the first end 350 of the drive shaft 338 (
The bias force applied by the spring 352 on the coupler 340 should be sufficient to keep the coupler 340 in engagement with the drive shaft 338, but not so great as to prevent the cam member 356 from pivoting to disengage the drive shaft 338 from the coupler 340. The tension of the spring 352 may be adjusted, for example, by selecting the thickness and flexibility of the material forming the spring 352 to prevent inadvertent release or camming (i.e., disengagement of the drive shaft 338 from the coupler 340) due to normal vibration, jolting, and jarring, and, in particular, the normal vibration, bouncing, and bumping that may occur during travel of the vehicle 10. The cam member 356 should be constructed to securely support the coupler 340 in the cammed orientation.
As shown in
As shown in
It should be appreciated that various means for pivotally supporting the cam member 356 within the body portion 332 could be used. As shown in
It should be appreciated that the embodiments described as being used to adjust the drive assembly between a first orientation where adjacent lifting assemblies 30 and/or moving assemblies 50 may be moved together and a second orientation where adjacent lifting assemblies 30 and/or moving assemblies 50 may be moved independently of each other are provided as selected examples of the many configurations that may be used. In one embodiment, the first orientation and the second orientation are provided through telescopic movement of one component of the drive assembly relative to another component of the drive assembly.
Referring to
In another embodiment, the flanges 76, 78 on the moving member 80 may be configured to define a channel. The flanges 76, 78 may be similar to flanges 306, 308 of the support member 64 shown in
It should be noted that in this embodiment, the support assemblies 60 may be configured without the use of the backing member 66 since the teeth 96 of the gear 70 do not pass through the support member 64. Rather, the support assemblies 60 may be comprised solely of the support member 64. In other embodiments, the backing member 66 may be used with the configuration shown in
The gear rack 376 and the gear 70 may be any suitable size and configuration so long as they are capable of cooperating with each other to vertically move the bed 40. For example, the gear rack 376 may be a separate component made from a steel material which is coupled to the support member 64 using a suitable fastener such as a bolt and the like or fastening method such as welding and the like. In another embodiment, the gear rack 376 may be integrally formed as part of the support member 64. Also, the gear rack 376 may be made from steel, plastic, composites, polymeric material, and the like.
Referring to
It should also be noted that in the embodiment shown in
The chain 378 may be coupled to the support member 64 in any of a number of suitable ways. For example, as shown in
The chain 378 and the sprocket may be any suitable size and configuration so long as they are capable of cooperating with each other to vertically move the bed 40. For example, the chain 378 may be a roller chain which has sufficient strength to support the weight of the bed 40. The chain 378 may be nickel plated to prevent corrosion and may have a lightweight food grade oil coating on it. Also, the chain 378 may be made from steel and/or any other suitable material (e.g., plastic, composites, polymeric material, and the like).
As shown in
As mentioned previously, in some instances, the distance between the first side wall 16 and the second side wall 18 in the vehicle 10 may vary as the bed 40 moves vertically. In one embodiment, the aperture 122 in the mounting member 110 is oversized to allow the mounting element 380 to move within the aperture 122 in the longitudinal direction of the bed 40. Thus, the width variations between the side walls 16, 18 may be accounted for by the longitudinal movement, relative to the bed 40, of the mounting element 380 in the aperture 122. Thus, in this embodiment, play is provided where the bed 40 is coupled to the moving assembly 50d to account for the width variations of the side walls 16, 18.
It should be appreciated that the width variations between the side walls 16, 18 may be compensated for using a number of arrangements and techniques. For example, in another embodiment, the bed frame 54 may include an oversized aperture which is configured to receive a protrusion included as part of the mounting member 110. The aperture on the bed frame 54 may be configured to allow the protrusion to move in the aperture in a direction which is perpendicular to the side walls 16, 18 of the vehicle 10 as the bed 40 moves vertically.
In another embodiment, the bed 40 may be coupled to opposed moving assemblies 50 using an arrangement similar to how the drive member 34b is coupled between the moving assemblies 50a, 50b. For example, the bed frame 54 may include a tubular portion on each end which receive a mounting member in the form of a shaft coupled to the moving assemblies 50. The bed 40 may be coupled between the moving members using a biasing member (e.g., spring) and a spacer in a similar way to how the drive member 34b is coupled between the moving assemblies 50a, 50b. Once the bed 40 is coupled to the moving assemblies 50 in this manner, the width variations between the side walls 16, 18 may be accounted for by the telescopic movement of the tubular portions and the mounting members. A number of additional configurations may also be provided to securely couple the bed 40 to the moving assembly 50 and also compensate for the width variations between the side walls 16, 18.
As shown in
It should be appreciated that numerous other ways may be provided to couple the bed 40 to the lifting assemblies 30 in addition to those previously described. For example, the bed frame 54 and the moving member 80 may be provided as one integral structure which cooperates with the support assemblies 60. In another embodiment, the bed 40 may be coupled to the lower end 132 of the moving assembly 50. Any of a number of additional ways may be used so long as the bed 40 is securely coupled to the moving assemblies 50.
Referring to
The number of lifting assemblies 30 may be greater than four. For example, the configuration shown in
Referring back to
The braces 382 may extend from the bed 40 to the moving assemblies 50 in a plane that is generally parallel to the plane of the side walls 16, 18, as shown in
In another embodiment, dummy support assemblies and moving assemblies may be coupled to the side walls 16, 18 parallel to the lifting assemblies 30a, 30c. Thus, the bed 40 may be supported by the dummy support assemblies so that the braces 382 may be eliminated. The support assemblies and moving assemblies are referred to as dummy support assemblies and dummy moving assemblies because they are generally not used to lift the bed 40, either manually or with the use of the motor assembly 36. Rather, the dummy assemblies may be used to guide the movement of the bed using a dummy moving assembly which cooperates with a dummy support assembly. For example, the dummy moving assembly may be a flange on the bed 40 which cooperates with a C-channel coupled to the side wall of the vehicle 10. The dummy support assemblies and moving assemblies may be less costly and simpler in operation and assembly than other support assemblies or moving assemblies. It should be understood that the use of the term support assembly, moving assembly, and the like without the term “dummy” includes both dummy assemblies and other assemblies.
In general, when the beds are in the stowed configuration 388, off-road vehicles may be received and transported in the cargo area 28 of the vehicle 10. When the off-road vehicles have been moved out of the cargo area 28, the beds may be moved to the use configuration 384. Typically, the beds 40, 41 are in the use configuration 384 when the vehicle 10 is stationary and being used for camping and the like. In this manner, the cargo area 28 may serve dual purposes—receiving and/or transporting off-road vehicles and sleeping.
The lower bed 40 may be moved and otherwise configured in a manner similar to the bed 40 referred to in
In one embodiment, the upper bed 41 is moved between the use configuration 384 and the stowed configuration 388 using the lower bed 40. For example, when the motor assembly 36 is activated, the lower bed 40 moves upward until it contacts the bottom side 58 of the upper bed 41 at the intermediate configuration 386 shown in
In another embodiment, both of the beds 40, 41 are coupled to moving assemblies 50 which cooperate with the support assemblies 60. A separate drive assembly, including separate motor assemblies 36 may be provided to move the moving assemblies coupled to each of the upper bed 41 and the lower bed 40 separately. Many other suitable configurations may also be provided.
A wide variety and configurations of the beds 40, 41 may be used. In one embodiment, the beds 40, 41 may be identical or nearly identical to each other. Using identical or very similar configurations for the lower bed 40 and the upper bed 41 may make it easier to inventory, manufacture, and install the beds 40, 41. However, in some embodiments, the beds 40, 41 may be configured to be different from each other. For example, the upper bed 41 may be a double sized bed while the lower bed 40 may be a queen sized bed or vice versa. Also, the bed frame 54 of the upper bed 41 may be different than the bed frame 54 of the lower bed 40 to allow the upper bed 41 to be supported in a spaced apart position from the lower bed 40 in the use configuration 384.
In another embodiment, the upper bed 41 may be provided with a railing around the periphery of the upper bed 41 to prevent persons sleeping thereon from rolling off. The railing may be stationary or may itself be movable to a stowed position. For example, the railing may slide downward relative to the upper bed 41 to allow the upper bed 41 to be positioned closer to the ceiling 24 in the stowed configuration 388. Also, the railing may pivot downward on an axis which extends longitudinally along the side of the upper bed 41.
As shown in
Referring to
As shown in
In contrast, the upper bed 41 may be configured to engage the stops 394 using a complementary support bracket 396 coupled to the upper bed 41 as shown in
Referring to
In one embodiment, the stops 394 and the support brackets 396 may be identical or at least substantially identical to each other. For example, the stops 394 and the support brackets 396 may be the same except that the stop 394 includes the pin 398 and the support bracket includes the hole 400. This may make it easier to inventory and manufacture the stops 394 and the support brackets 396. The stops 394 and the support brackets 396 may also include mounting holes 402 which receive a suitable fastener such as a bolt, screw, clamp, etc. to couple the stops 394 to the side walls 16, 18 and the support brackets 396 to the upper bed 41.
It should be appreciated that the stops 394 and the support brackets 396 may be provided in a wide number of configurations using an equally wide number of materials. For example, the stops may be coupled to or integrally formed with the support assembly 60, thus eliminating the need to separately couple the stops 394 to the side walls 16, 18 of the vehicle 10. Also, the stops 394 and the support brackets 396 may be made from plastic, composites, wood, metal, and so forth.
The upper bed 41 may include guides or flanges which extend from the bed frame 54 on each of the first side 424 and the second side 426 towards the side walls 16, 18, respectively, so that a guide extends around each of the support assemblies 60 to guide the movement of the upper bed 41. Thus, when the upper bed 41 is lowered, the support brackets 396 may be aligned to engage the stops 394. In another embodiment, the upper bed 41 may not be guided as it moves up and down.
In another embodiment, shown in
Referring to
In this embodiment, the support bracket 396 includes a guide portion 404, a base portion 406, and the pin 398. As mentioned previously, the pin 398 may be configured to engage a corresponding hole 400 in the stop 394 to support the upper bed 41 in the use configuration 384. The guide portion 404 may be positioned adjacent to one of the flanges 72, 74 of the support member 64 to guide the upper bed 41 as it moves between the use configuration 384 and the stowed configuration 388. The guide portion 404 may be used to prevent the upper bed 41 from rotating in a horizontal plane. A guide 408, which also includes a guide portion 404, may be positioned adjacent to the other one of the flanges 72, 74 of the support member 64 to guide the upper bed 41 as it moves between the use configuration 384 and the stowed configuration 388 and/or prevent rotation of the upper bed 41 in the horizontal plane. As shown in
As shown in
The pin 398 may be formed by bending a segment of the stamped out portion along a horizontal axis which is parallel to the side portion 412 until the pin 398 is positioned downward and perpendicular relative to the base portion 410. The final position of the pin 398 is shown in
It should be appreciated that the embodiment shown in
In another embodiment, the stops 394 shown in
The stops 394 may be coupled to the backing member 66 using any number of suitable fasteners or fastening methods such as bolts, screws, clamps, welding, brazing, and so on. In one embodiment, the stops 394 may be coupled to the backing member 66 using fasteners 432 which are received in holes 430 in the backing member 66. As shown in
The height of the upper bed 394 in the use configuration 384 may be adjusted in a number of ways. In one embodiment, the position of the stop 394 may be adjusted relative to the backing member 66 and/or support member 64 in order to adjust the position of the upper bed 394 in the use configuration 384. For example, the position of the stop 394 may be adjusted by fastening the stop 394 to the backing member 66 in a plurality of locations represented in
The support brackets 396 shown in
Referring to
Referring to
It should be appreciated that the drive members 34a, 34b, 34c and any additional drive members 34 which may be included may be configured in a number of suitable ways. For example, in another embodiment, the drive member 34b may be a toothed belt that cooperates with pulleys in the place of the sprockets 434. Accordingly, many variations may be made to the drive members 34.
Referring to
In one embodiment, the space 446 extends transversely through the backing member 66 in a direction parallel to the first side wall 16. When the beds 40, 41 are both positioned in the stowed configuration 388, a stop 448 may be positioned through the space 446 so that the stop 448 protrudes from each side of backing member 66 in a direction parallel to the first side wall 16. When the lower bed 40 is lowered, the support bracket 396 and/or the guide 408 coupled to the upper bed 41 engages the stop 448. In this manner, the stop 448 supports the upper bed 41 in the stowed position while the lower bed 40 may be lowered and used for sleeping thereon. Thus, the upper bed 41 may independently supported in the stowed position while at the same time the lower bed 40 may be raised and lowered as desired.
It should be understood that the embodiment shown in
The beds 550-553 may be configured similarly to the beds 40, 41. For example, the mattresses 52 and the bed frames 54 may be made from similar materials and in similar configurations as the beds 40, 41. Although the beds 550-553 may be any suitable size, in many instances, because the beds 550-553 are coupled to the opposing side walls 16, 18, it may be desirable for the beds 550-553 to be double size or smaller. For example in one embodiment, each of the beds 550-553 may be twin, single, or smaller sized beds and configured to sleep one person thereon. In another embodiment, the first pair of beds 550, 551 may be coupled to the first side wall 16 without any beds being coupled to the second side wall 18. In this embodiment, the beds 550, 551 may be larger since the space between the beds 550, 551 and the second side wall 18 is open. It should be appreciated that the configuration of the beds 550-553 may vary in a number of ways.
Each of the beds 550-553 includes a first side 556, a second side 558, a first end 560, and a second end 562. In general, the first sides of the beds 550-553 are coupled to the side walls 16, 18 while the second sides 558 are positioned adjacent to the aisle 554, or at least sufficiently far away from any walls of the vehicle 10 to allow a person to get on the beds 550-553 by way of the second sides 558. In the embodiment shown in
In one embodiment, each pair of beds may be configured to move independently of the other pair of beds. For example, a separate drive assembly including separate motor assemblies 36 may be provided for each pair of beds. As shown in
The first sides 556 of the lower beds 550, 552 may be coupled to the moving assemblies 50 in any of a number of ways. In one embodiment, it may be desirable to couple the lower beds 550, 552 to the moving assemblies 50 in an immovable manner. For example, in one embodiment, the lower beds 550, 552 may be immovably coupled to the moving assemblies 50 using any suitable fastener such as bolts, screws, pin and hole arrangements, etc. Immovably coupling the lower beds 550, 552 to the moving assemblies 50 may reduce undesired cantilevered movement of the second sides of the lower beds 550, 552. Also, since the lower beds 550, 552 are not coupled to both of the side walls 16, 18, the impact of the width variations between the side walls 16, 18 is diminished. Given these considerations, it may be desirable to couple the lower beds 550, 552 to the moving assemblies 50 so that play between the lower beds 550, 552 and the moving assemblies 50 is reduced. In one embodiment, this may be accomplished using a threaded member (e.g. threaded rod, threaded portion of a bolt, etc.) coupled to the lower beds 550, 552 which is received by the hole 122 in the mounting member 110 of the moving assemblies 50. The threaded member may be secured in place using a nut thereby securing the mounting member 110 to the lower beds 550, 552. Although the hole 122 may be oversized to make it easier to receive the threaded member, once the nut is tightened, there may be little, or, desirably, no play between the lower beds 550, 552 and the moving assemblies 50.
In another embodiment, the lower beds 550, 552 may be coupled to the moving assemblies 50 so that play is provided at the interface of the lower beds 550, 552 and the moving assemblies 50. This may be desirable to take into account variations in the distance between the adjacent lifting assemblies 30 coupled to the same side wall as the lower beds 550, 552 move vertically.
With continued reference to
The braces 382 may be made from any suitable material and may have a wide variety of configurations. For example, in one embodiment, the braces 382 comprise a cylindrical tubular steel material which has been flattened and bent at each end so that the braces 382 may be coupled to the moving members 80 and the lower beds 550, 552.
It should be appreciated that many other configurations may be used to provide additional support to the lower beds 550, 552 beyond what has been described and illustrated herein. For example, in another embodiment, a cross brace may be configured to be coupled to and extend between the lower ends 132 of the moving members 80 in a direction which is parallel to the side walls 16, 18. Additional braces 382 may be configured to extend from the cross brace to the bottom side 58 of the lower beds 550, 552 in a similar fashion as the braces 382 extend from the moving members 80 to the bottom side 58 of the lower beds 550, 552.
With continued reference to
Referring to
As shown in
The mounting member 110 may be positioned in any suitable location relative to the moving assembly 564. For example, as shown in
Referring to
It should be appreciated that many additional embodiments of the moving assembly 564 may be provided beyond those described and illustrated herein so long as the moving assembly 564 is capable of guiding the movement of the upper beds 551, 553. For example, in another embodiment, the support brackets 396 and the guides 408 illustrated in
Referring to
During operation, the lower beds 550, 552 may be used to lift the upper beds 551, 553 in a manner similar to how the lower bed 40 is used to lift the upper bed 41. In one embodiment, the lower beds 550, 552 may be configured to contact the bottom side 58 of the upper beds 551, 553 to raise the upper beds 551, 553 to the stowed configuration 388. In another embodiment, the moving assemblies 50 may contact the moving assemblies 564 to raise the upper beds 551, 553 to the stowed configuration 388 with little or no contact between the lower beds 550, 552 and the upper beds 551, 553.
Referring to
The second sides 558 of the upper beds 551, 553 may also be supported in the use configuration 384 in a number of ways. For example, in one embodiment, one or more support elements 566 such as a strap (e.g., woven nylon, etc.), chain, cable, rod, etc. may be used to support the upper beds 551, 553 in the use configuration 384. In one embodiment, the support elements 566 extend from the ceiling 24 of the vehicle 10 to the second sides 558 of the upper beds 551, 553. In another embodiment, the support elements 566 may extend from the respective side wall 16, 18 which the upper bed 551, 553 is coupled to the second sides 558.
In the embodiment shown in
Referring to
It should be appreciated that many other devices and configurations may be used to couple the support element 566 to the upper beds 551, 553. For example, in another embodiment, the support element 566 may include a pin which is received by an opening in the bed frame 54 of the upper beds 551, 553. Numerous other embodiments may also be used.
Referring to
In one embodiment, the support elements 566 include multiple couplers 568 positioned at locations along the support elements 566 which are suitable to support the upper beds 551, 553 and/or the lower beds 550, 552. For example, as shown in
Referring to
It should be appreciated that the second sides 558 of the lower beds 550, 552 may be supported in the use configuration 384 in a number of other ways as well. For example, the support elements 566 may be coupled to the second sides 558 of the lower beds 550, 552 and anchored to the corresponding side wall 16, 18 or to the ceiling 24. Also, the support elements 566 may be coupled between the second sides 558 of the lower beds 550, 552 and the upper beds 551, 553, respectively. The upper beds 551, 553 may, in turn, be coupled to the corresponding side wall 16, 18 or the ceiling. In this manner, the upper beds 551, 553 may be used to support the lower beds 550, 552 using the support elements 566. It should be appreciated that the lower beds 550, 552 may be supported in any of a number of suitable ways.
Referring to
As shown in
Although three lifting assemblies 30 are shown in
The corners 602 of the beds 590, 591 may be supported in the use configuration 384 using the support 588 and/or the support element 566. In one embodiment, shown in
The beds 590, 591 may be moved between a use configuration 384 where the beds 590, 591 are spaced apart from each other and configured to receive a person to sleep thereon and a stowed configuration (not shown in
Many additional embodiments may also be provided for moving the beds 590, 591 between the use configuration 384 and the stowed configuration 388. For example, the embodiments described and illustrated previously using four lifting assemblies 30 may also be used to vertically move the beds 590, 591 in the corner of the room 592. In this situation, the lifting assemblies 30a, 30c may be positioned opposite the lifting assemblies 30b, 30d so that the drive member 34b extends between the transmissions 200. The lifting assemblies 30a, 30c may be coupled to the first side wall 596 as shown in
Referring to
It should be appreciated that in describing the components in the embodiment in
Referring to
As shown in
The lifting assemblies 630a, 630b, 630c, 630d each include a moving assembly 650a, 650b, 650c, 650d (collectively referred to as “the moving assemblies 650”), a moving assembly 651a, 651b, 651c, 651d (collectively referred to as “the moving assemblies 651”)—the moving assemblies 650, 651 may alternatively be referred to herein as carriages, trolleys, sliding units, or moving guide assemblies—and a guide assembly 660a, 660b, 660c, 660d (collectively referred to as “the guide assemblies 660”)—alternatively referred to herein as a support assembly. In this embodiment, the moving assemblies 651 may be coupled to the upper bed 641 and the moving assemblies 650 may be coupled to the lower bed 640. The moving assemblies 650, 651 may be configured to cooperate with the corresponding guide assemblies 660 to vertically move the beds 640, 641 between the use configuration 610 and the stowed configuration 612. In one embodiment, the moving assemblies 650, 651 slidably cooperate with the guide assemblies 660 to vertically move the beds 640, 641.
Although the lifting assemblies 630 are shown being configured to vertically move two beds, it should be appreciated that the lifting assemblies 630 may be used to vertically move one, three, or more beds. For example, in one embodiment, three beds may be moved between the use configuration 610 where the beds are spaced apart to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and the stowed configuration 612 where the beds are positioned adjacent to the ceiling 24. Of course, any number of the beds in widely varying configurations may be provided.
The system 12, shown in
It should be appreciated that many additional ways may be used to install or couple the system 12 to the vehicle 10. For example, the order in which the lifting assemblies 630 are coupled to the side walls 16, 18 may be varied. Also, in another embodiment, the lifting assemblies 630 may be coupled to the side walls 16, 18 before the cross members 614 are coupled between the lifting assemblies 630. Numerous additional modifications may be made in the method for installing the system 12.
In the embodiment shown in
Referring to
As shown in this embodiment, each lifting assembly 630a, 630b, 630c, 630d may include a flexible drive member 616a, 616b, 616c, 616d (collectively referred to as “the flexible drive members 616”) which may be used to vertically move the moving members 620, 622 in cooperation with the guide members 618. Also, flexible drive members 632, 638 may be used to move the adjacent lifting assemblies 630a, 630c and the adjacent lifting assemblies 630b, 630d, respectively, together. The drive member 634 may be used to move the lifting assemblies 630a, 630c and the lifting assemblies 630b, 630d together. Thus, the flexible drive members 632, 638 and the drive member 634 may be used to move all of the lifting assemblies 630 in unison.
It should be appreciated that the configuration of the drive members 632, 634, 638 may be varied in a number of ways. For example, in another embodiment, the flexible drive member 632 may be configured to move the lifting assemblies 630a, 630c together with one drive member 634 extending between the lifting assemblies 630a, 630b and another drive member 634 extending between the lifting assemblies 630c, 630d. Thus, in this embodiment, two drive members 634 may be used and the flexible drive member 638 may be eliminated. Also, the flexible drive member 632 may be positioned anywhere as long as it extends between and is capable of moving the two drive members 634 together. For example, the flexible drive member 632 may be positioned in the middle of the ceiling 24 and configured to extend between the two drive members 634. Numerous additional configurations of the drive members 632, 634, 638 may also be provided so long as the lifting assemblies are capable of moving in unison.
In the embodiments shown in
It should be understood that the flexible drive members 616 may be used to form the entire endless loop, such as when the flexible drive members 616 are continuous loops of chain, or to form a part of the endless loop such as when the flexible drive members 616 are chains where a rigid component (e.g., moving member 620) is coupled between the ends of each of the chain. Either way, an endless loop is provided which travels along an endless path.
Each endless loop formed by the flexible drive members 616 includes a load bearing or first side 642 and a return or second side 644. The flexible drive members 616 each include a load bearing portion 652—alternatively referred to herein as a load bearing length or load bearing segment—on the load bearing side 642 of the endless loop, which extends from the location of the load, the moving assembly 650 in this embodiment, vertically to the upper end 624 of the lifting assemblies 630 where the load is supported. The load bearing portion 652 is generally that portion of the flexible drive members 616 which bears the load as the beds 640, 641 are moved vertically. The flexible drive members 616 also each include a return portion 654—alternatively referred to herein as a slack portion, return length, or return segment—on the return side 644 of the endless loop, which, in general, is the portion of the flexible drive members 616 that do not bear the load as the beds 640, 641 are raised and lowered. The load bearing side 642, in the embodiment shown in
As shown in
The flexible drive members 632, 638 are used to move the respective lifting assemblies 630 in unison. Each of the flexible drive members 632, 638 includes a load bearing or first side 646 and a return or second side 648. A taught portion or length 656 of the flexible drive members 632, 638 on the load bearing side 646 bears the weight of the beds 640, 641 at any give time. A slack portion or length 658 of the flexible drive members 632, 638 on the return side 648 serves to close the endless loop. Both the taught portions 656 and the slack portions 658 extend between the upper ends 624 of adjacent lifting assemblies 630 and are generally parallel to each other. The taught portions 656 are the portion of the flexible drive members 632, 638 which, at any given time, are in tension due to the weight of the moving assemblies 650 and the beds 640, 641.
It should be appreciated that the configuration of the flexible drive members 616, 632, 638 may be varied in a number of ways. For example, the load bearing sides 642 and the return sides 644 of the flexible drive members 616 may be switched with each other. This can be done by coupling the flexible drive members 616 to the moving assemblies 650 using what was previously the return sides 644. Thus, the return sides 644 become the load bearing sides 642 and what was once the load bearing sides 642 become the return sides 644. Also, by switching the load bearing sides 642 and the return sides 644 of the flexible drive members 616 with each other, the load bearing sides 646 and the return sides 648 of the flexible drive members 632, 638 are switched as well.
In operation, the motor assembly 636 is used to move the flexible drive members 616 along the endless paths. Since the moving assemblies 650 are coupled to the flexible drive members 616, the moving assemblies 650 also move along the endless path. For example, as shown in
In one embodiment, the flexible drive members 616 may be roller chains. In this embodiment, one or more sprockets may be provided at the upper end 624 and/or the lower end 626 to facilitate movement of the flexible drive members 616 along the endless path. In one embodiment, the roller chain may be #35 roller chain. The roller chain may also be corrosion resistant (e.g., nickel plated, stainless steel, etc.). In another embodiment the flexible drive members 616 may be toothed belts as shown and described in connection with
It should be appreciated that the flexible drive members 616 may be configured in a number of suitable ways beyond what is shown in
In one embodiment, as shown in
The drive member 634 may be positioned between the motor assembly 636 and the drive shaft 670b as follows. First, the second end 322 of the drive member 634 engages the drive shaft 670b. The drive shaft 671 is then inserted into the first end 320 of the drive member 634 as shown in
Holes 628 in the upper ends 624 of the lifting assemblies 630 may be used to couple the lifting assemblies 630 to the side walls 16, 18. The holes 628 may be used to receive any of a number of suitable fasteners which are used to couple the lifting assemblies 630 to the first side wall 16. For example, in one embodiment, bolts or screws may extend through the holes 628 and into the side walls 16, 18 to securely hold the lifting assemblies 630a, 630c in place. Also, the lower ends 626 of the lifting assemblies 630 may include the holes 628 and, thus, may be capable of being coupled to the side walls 16, 18 as well.
It should be appreciated that the ways in which the lifting assemblies 630 may coupled to the side walls 16, 18 are numerous. For example, in another embodiment, the holes 628 may be included in the middle of the lifting assemblies 630. Also, flanges may be included which extend outward from the guide members 618 adjacent to and parallel with the side walls 16, 18. The flanges may include the holes 628 so that fasteners may be used to couple the flanges and, thus, the lifting assemblies 630 to the side walls 16, 18.
Referring to
It should be appreciated that many other configurations may be provided for the cross member 614. For example, in another embodiment, rather than using three sections, the cross member 614 may include two sections which may be adjusted lengthwise relative to each other. The two sections may be coupled together in a manner similar to that shown in
Referring to
As shown in
The mounting bracket 682 also includes holes 688 which may be configured to receive a fastener 692. The guide member 618 may also include holes 694 which correspond to the holes 688 and are also configured to receive the fastener 692. Thus, the mounting bracket 682 may be coupled to the guide member 618 by positioning the fastener 692 in the holes 688 in the mounting bracket 682 and the holes 694 in the guide member 618. In this manner, the motor assembly 636 may be coupled to the guide member 618.
It should be appreciated that the motor assembly 636 may be coupled to the lifting assembly 630a in a number of suitable ways. For example, in another embodiment, the motor assembly 636 may be coupled to the cross member 614. This may be done by rotating the motor assembly 636 180 degrees from the configuration shown in
In other embodiments, the motor assembly 636 may be coupled to the side walls 16, 18, the ceiling 24 or any other suitable location. For example, another embodiment of the mounting bracket 682 may be provided which facilitates coupling the motor assembly 636 to the ceiling 24 and/or the first side wall 16. In yet another embodiment, the drive member 634 may be provided as two separate sections with the motor assembly 636 coupled to the ceiling 24 at a position between the two sections. Numerous additional configurations may also be used.
As shown in
Referring to
In
In one embodiment, the guide members 618 used in the various lifting assemblies 630 shown in
As shown in
In one embodiment, the drive mechanism 690 includes the drive shaft 670a, a first sprocket 722, a second sprocket 724—the first and second sprockets may alternatively be referred to herein as a rotatable member, rotatable wheel, or toothed wheel—a first bearing 726, and a second bearing 728—the first and second bearings may alternatively be referred to herein as bushings, sleeves, or friction reducing members. The drive shaft 670a includes the hexagonally shaped first end 680, the cylindrical second end 720, and a cylindrical intermediate portion 730. The first bearing 726 and the second bearing 728 include an axial hole 732 and an axial hole 734, respectively. The drive shaft 670a is positioned to rotate on an axis which is perpendicular to the first side wall 16 of the vehicle 10.
The cylindrical second end 720 is sized and configured to be received in the axial hole 734 in the second bearing 728. The second bearing 728 is sized to be received in the hole 718 in the guide member 618. In one embodiment, the second bearing 728 is secured in the hole 718 by the friction between the second bearing 728 and the hole 718.
In one embodiment, the sprockets 722, 724 may be coupled to the intermediate portion 730 of the drive shaft 670a. This may be done in any of a number of suitable ways. For example, in one embodiment, the sprockets 722, 724 may be provided as a double sprocket which is coupled to the drive shaft 670 using a pin and hole arrangement. In another embodiment, the intermediate portion 730 may be hexagonally shaped and configured to cooperate with an axial hole in the double sprocket which is also hexagonally shaped. In yet another embodiment, the drive shaft 670a and the sprockets 722, 724 may be made as an integral piece. For example, the drive shaft 670a and the sprockets 722, 724 may be made as one integral piece using powdered metal.
In yet another embodiment, the intermediate portion 730 of the drive shaft 670a may include a raised portion having a diameter which is larger than the axial hole in the sprockets 722, 724. The first sprocket 722 may be configured to be positioned adjacent to one side of the raised portion and the second sprocket 724 may be configured to be positioned adjacent to the other side of the raised portion. The length of the raised portion may be adjusted to provide the desired distance between the sprockets 722, 724. The sprockets 722, 724 may be coupled to the drive shaft 670a using soldering, brazing, or any other suitable process. The sprockets 722, 724 used in this embodiment may be provided using conventional metal stamping techniques. Also, in another embodiment, the sprockets 722, 724 may be soldered or otherwise coupled to a drive sleeve having the raised portion rather than a drive shaft having the raised portion. The drive sleeve may be configured to include a hexagonal bore which is capable of receiving a corresponding hexagonal drive shaft. The drive sleeve engaged with the hexagonal drive shaft may be used to form the drive shaft 670a as shown in
With continued reference to
When assembled, the drive mechanism 690 is supported at the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630a by the bushing protrusions 716, 736 and is used to vertically move the moving assembly 650a. In one embodiment, teeth 738 of the sprocket 722 are sized and configured to engage the flexible drive member 616 so that as the sprocket 722 is rotated, the moving assembly 650a may be moved vertically. In a similar fashion, the teeth 738 of the sprocket 724 are sized and configured to engage the flexible drive member 632 so that as the sprocket 724 is rotated, the moving assembly 650c in the lifting assembly 630c moves in unison with the moving assembly 650a. The first side 702 and the second side 704 of the guide member 618 each include a recess 742 through which the flexible drive member 632 travels when the lifting assembly 630 is assembled. Although in the embodiment shown, the flexible drive member 632 only travels through the recess 742 on the second side 704, the recess 742 in the first side 702 is provided so that the same guide member 618 may be used in any of the lifting assemblies 630. For example, when the guide member 618 is used in the lifting assembly 630c then the flexible drive member 632 travels through the recess 742 in the first side 702.
The drive shaft 670b may be configured similarly to the drive shaft 670a. The other drive shafts 670c, 670d may be provided without the first end 680 protruding through the hole 740 in the cross member 614 since these drive shafts 670c, 670d are not configured, in this embodiment, to engage a drive member 634 extending between the lifting assemblies 630c, 630d. It should be appreciated, however, that the drive shafts 670 may be configured in many suitable ways so long as the drive shafts 670 are capable of supporting and moving the moving assemblies 650.
It should be appreciated that the drive mechanism 690 and how the drive mechanism is coupled to the guide member 618 may be altered in a number of ways to provide additional embodiments. For example, in another embodiment, the guide member 618 may be configured to include two opposing holes which receive the drive shaft 670a. In this embodiment, the cross member 614 may be configured without the bushing protrusion 736 since the drive shaft 670 is supported entirely by the guide member 618. Also, the cross member 614 may be configured so that the first end section 662 and the second end section 664 do not extend over the face of the guide members 618. Rather, the cross member 614 may be configured to only extend between the guide members 618 and be used to cover the flexible drive member 632. Numerous additional embodiments may also be provided.
With continued reference to
In one embodiment, shown in
In one embodiment, shown in
The switch 758 may be coupled to the inside of the guide member 618 using fasteners 760 which extend through holes 762 in the securing flange 710. As shown in
Referring to
It should be appreciated that the moving assemblies 650, 651 may be prevented from moving beyond an upper or lower limit using a number of alternative devices and/or systems. For example, the control system, described previously, may be used to continuously monitor the position of the beds 640, 641 and prevent the beds 640, 641 from moving beyond the upper limit and/or the lower limit. In general, all of the features of the earlier control system may be applicable to the present embodiment.
In the embodiment shown in
In the embodiment shown in
It should be appreciated that various configurations of the wheel 776 may be used to provide the desired tension in the flexible drive member 616a and to guide the movement of the flexible drive member 616a along the endless path. For example, in another embodiment, the wheel 776 may include teeth which engage the flexible drive member 616a. In yet another embodiment, the outer surface 796 may include a groove or channel which is sized so that the flexible drive member 616a moves in the groove. The groove may be used to prevent the flexible drive member 616a from coming off or becoming misaligned with the wheel 776. Also, the wheel 776 may be made from plastic, metal, composites, or any other suitable material. In one embodiment, the wheel 776 may be made from plastic. Many other suitable configurations may also be used.
With continued reference to
In one embodiment, the shock absorbing member 816 may be made from an elastomeric material which is capable of absorbing shocks. The shock absorbing member 816 may be shaped like a washer and have sufficient thickness to provide the desired shock absorbing capabilities. In another embodiment, the shock absorbing member 816 may be a metal or plastic spring coupled between the washer 814 and the base 804 of the mounting bracket 772. It should be appreciated that the configuration and materials used for the shock absorbing member 816 may vary widely.
The mounting bracket 772 may be coupled to the lower end 626 of the guide member 618 using holes 818 in the mounting bracket 772 and corresponding holes 820 in the guide member 618. The mounting bracket 772 may be coupled to the guide member 618 by sliding the mounting bracket 772 upward in the channel 714 until the holes 818, 820 are aligned. A fastener 822 may be inserted into the holes 818, 820 to securely couple the mounting bracket 772 to the guide member 618. It should be noted that the second side 808 of the mounting bracket 772 may include a notch 824 to accommodate the switch 768 when both the switch 768 and the mounting bracket 772 are coupled to the guide member 618.
It should be appreciated that the yoke assembly 764 may be varied in a number of ways. For example, the mounting bracket 772 in the yoke mechanism 774 may be configured to slide on a track inside the guide member 618 (e.g., raised portions in the first side 702 and the second side 704 cooperate with grooves or channels in the mounting bracket 772) to allow the tension in the flexible drive member 616a to be adjusted. Numerous additional embodiments may also be used.
The guard 766 may be provided to conceal, cover, and/or protect the yoke mechanism 774. For example, the guard 766 may include a cover portion 828 which covers the wheel 776 and extends between the load bearing side 642 and the return side 644 of the endless loop. In this manner, the cover portion 828 may be used to prevent objects from becoming lodged between the flexible drive member 616a and the wheel 776.
The guard 766 may be coupled to the guide member 618 in any of a number of suitable ways. In one embodiment, the guard 766 includes three tabs 830 which are configured to be received by corresponding slots 832 in the securing flanges 708, 710 of the guide member 618. In one embodiment, the tabs 830 are configured to be inserted into the slots 832 and then moved downwardly to engage the slots 832. Once the tabs 830 have engaged the slots 832, a fastener 826 may be inserted through a hole 834 in the guard 766 and through a hole 836 in the guide member 618 to securely couple the guard 766 to the guide member 618 and prevent the tabs 830 from moving upwardly and disengaging the slots 832.
Referring to
It should be appreciated that the configuration of the moving member 620 may be varied in a number of ways. For example, in one embodiment, the moving member 620 may be shorter or longer lengthwise than what is shown in
In one embodiment, wear guides 850 may be coupled to the moving member 620. The wear guides 850 contact the interior surfaces of the guide member 618 (e.g., interior surfaces of the first side 702, the second side 704, the base 706, and/or the securing flanges 708, 710) as the moving member 620 moves in the channel 714. The wear guides 850 may be used to reduce the wear and/or friction between the moving member 620 and the guide member 618 as the moving member 620 moves vertically.
In one embodiment, the wear guides 850 may be made from a durable plastic material such as a thermoplastic urethane material. In one embodiment the wear guides 850 may be made using Texin® 270, available from General Polymers, 4860 Joliet St., Denver, Colo. 80239. In other embodiments, the wear guides 850 may be made using any suitable materials including composites, metal, plastic, or any other material capable of reducing friction and/or wear.
The wear guides 850 may be coupled to the moving member 620 in a number of ways. For example, in one embodiment, each of the wear guides 850 may be configured to include a flat base portion and a cylindrical protrusion portion. The moving member 620 may be provided with a number of holes which are sized to securely receive the protrusion portion. The protrusion portions of the wear guides 850 may be inserted into the holes until the base portion is flush with the moving member 620. The protrusion portions may be slightly oversized so that once the protrusion portions are in the holes, the wear guides 850 are secured in place. In use, the base portion of the wear guides 850 move adjacent to and in contact with the interior surfaces of the guide member 618. Numerous other ways may be used to couple the wear guides 850 to the moving member 620 such as by using fasteners, injection molding the wear guide 850 to the moving member 620, and the like.
The mounting member 840 is generally used to support the lower bed 640 and to couple the lower bed 640 to the front side 842 of the moving member 620. The mounting member 840 may be positioned on the front side 842 of the moving member 620 so that the mounting member 840 extends through the gap 712 between the securing flanges 708, 710 of the guide member 618 as the moving member 620 moves vertically.
In one embodiment, the mounting member 840 includes a mounting or first portion 854, which includes an opening 852, and a side or second portion 856. The side portion 856 may be coupled to the front side 842 of the moving member 620 using fasteners 858 which extend through holes 860 in the side portion 856 and engage holes 862 in the front side 842 of the moving member 620. In one embodiment, shown in
In one embodiment, the position of the mounting member 840 and/or the mounting portion 854 may be adjusted relative to the moving member 620. For example, in one embodiment, the mounting member 840 may be inverted and coupled to the moving member 620 so that the mounting portion 854 is positioned below the side portion 856. In another embodiment, additional holes 862 may be provided in the moving member 620 to allow the mounting member 840 to be coupled to the moving member 620 at multiple locations. In yet a further embodiment, the mounting member 840 may be slidably coupled to the moving member 620 using a track. Thus, the position of the mounting member 840 may be adjusted relative to the moving member 620 as desired.
The mounting member 840 may be used to couple the lower bed 640 to the moving assembly 650a. There are numerous ways that this may be accomplished. One embodiment of an arrangement for coupling the lower bed 640 to the moving assembly 650a is shown in
It should be appreciated that the lower bed 640 may be coupled to the moving assembly 650a in a number of suitable ways. For example, in another embodiment, the pin 868 may be included as part of the bed frame 54. In another embodiment, the pin 868 may be included as part of the mounting member 840. The opening 866 in the bed frame 54 may receive the pin 868.
In yet another embodiment, the moving member 620 may be coupled to the lower bed 640 without the use of the mounting member 840. For example, a cross member may be provided which extends between the front side 842 and the rear side 844 of the moving member 620 and between the load bearing side 642 and the return side 644 of the flexible drive member 616a. The cross member may be positioned at the top of the moving member 620 and may include an opening 852. The mounting member 864 on the bed frame 54 may be configured to extend through the gap 712 in the guide member 618 so that the opening 852 in the cross member and the opening 866 in the mounting member 864 may be aligned. The pin 868 may be inserted through the openings 852, 866 to couple the moving member 620 to the lower bed 640. Numerous other embodiments may be provided to couple the moving assembly 650a to the lower bed 640 including some embodiments which may use complex coupling mechanisms.
As shown in
It should be appreciated that the variations in the width between the side walls 16, 18 as the lower bed 640 moves vertically may be accounted for in a number of ways.
It should be appreciated that numerous embodiments may be used to compensate for the width variations between the side walls 16, 18. For example, the many ways described previously in connection with
Referring back to
The coupling device 838 may be coupled to the moving member 620 in any of a number of suitable ways. For example, in one embodiment, the first side 882 of the retaining member 878 may be coupled on one side to the moving member 620. As shown in
In one embodiment, the coupling device 838 may be configured to be coupled to either of the two vertical lengths of the flexible drive member 616a. For example, the load bearing side 642 and the return side 644 of the flexible drive member 616a may be reversed by coupling the moving member 620 to what was formerly the return side 644. In one embodiment, this may be done by inverting the coupling device 838 so that the fingers 880 face the opposite direction as shown in
It should be appreciated that many additional embodiments of the coupling device 838 may be used. For example, in one embodiment, the coupling device 838 may be a bolt which extends through the moving member 620 and the flexible drive member 616a. In another embodiment, multiple coupling devices 838 may be used. For example, each end of the flexible drive member 616a may be coupled to the moving member 620 using a coupling device 838. Also, as shown in
In addition, it should be appreciated that the coupling device 838 may be used to couple the flexible drive member 616a to the moving member 620 at any of a number of suitable locations. For example, in one embodiment, the flexible drive member 616a may be coupled to third side 846 of the moving member 620. In another embodiment, the load bearing side 642 and the return side 644 may be reversed so that the flexible drive member 616a may be coupled to the fourth side 848 of the moving member 620. In yet another embodiment, the flexible drive member 616a may be coupled to the rear side 844 of the moving member 620.
Referring to
The moving member 622 includes a front or first side 902, a rear or second side 904, a third side 906, and a fourth side 908. The front side 902 is positioned opposite and parallel to the rear side 904 and the third side 906 is positioned opposite and parallel to the fourth side 908 so that the moving member 622 has a box shape with a passage or hollow portion 905 in the center. The moving member 622 is also sized to move inside the channel 714 of the guide member 618 in a manner similar to the moving member 620. In order to reduce friction and/or wear between the moving member 622 and the guide member 618, the wear guides 850 may also be coupled to the moving member 622, as shown in
Referring back to
In one embodiment, a drive assembly may be used to move the beds 640, 641 vertically between the use configuration 610 and the stowed configuration 612. The drive assembly includes those components which are used to drive the vertical movement of the beds 640, 641. For example, in this embodiment, the drive assembly includes the flexible drive members 616, 632, 638, the drive member 634, the drive mechanisms 690, and the motor assembly 636.
With continued reference to
In one embodiment, as shown in
The mounting member 840 is used to couple the upper bed 641 to the moving assembly 651a. The mounting member 840 may be identical to or interchangeable with the mounting member 840 in the moving assembly 650a. Using interchangeable components may make it easier to manufacture and/or inventory the moving assemblies 650, 651 and their associated components. The mounting member 840 may be coupled to the moving member 622 in a manner similar to how the mounting member 840 is coupled to the moving member 620. Accordingly, the fasteners 858 may extend through the holes 860 of the mounting member 840 and engage the holes 912 in the front side 902 of the moving member 622.
As shown in
In one embodiment, the gap 918 in the rear side 844 of the moving member 620 is wider than the gap 924 in the rear side 904 of the moving member 622. Referring to
It should be appreciated that the upper bed 641 may be supported in the use configuration 610 in a number of other ways as well. For example, in one embodiment, the upper bed 641 may be supported in a manner similar to that shown in
In one embodiment, the stop 926 may be coupled to the base 706 of the guide member 618 at any one of a number of locations in order to adjust the use position of the upper bed 641. For example, the guide member 618 may include multiple holes 928 in the base 706 which may be used to couple the stop 926 to the guide member 618. In one embodiment, the stop 926 may be coupled to the guide member 618 using fasteners 930 which may be inserted through holes 936 in the stop 926 and the holes 928 in the guide member 618.
It should be appreciated that the holes 928 may be provided in a number of suitable configurations. For example, in one embodiment, the holes 928 may be extruded to form a protrusion 934 which extends into the channel 714 of the guide member 618. The protrusion 934 may provide a sufficient amount of material defining the hole 928 to enable the hole 928 to be threaded. The stop 926 may include corresponding holes 932 which are configured to receive the protrusion 934 so that the stop 926 is flush with the base 706 of the guide member 618. In other embodiments, the holes 928 may be flush with the base 706 and/or configured without threads. In these embodiments, the stop 926 may be coupled to the guide member 618 using fasteners which extend through the holes 936, 928 and into the corresponding side wall 16, 18 of the vehicle 10. It should be appreciated that any suitable fastener may be used such as bolts, screws, anchors, and the like.
In one embodiment, shown in
With continued reference to
Referring to
The moving member 620 may include guide flanges 940 coupled to the fourth side 848 of the moving member 620. The guide flanges 940 extend outward from the fourth side 848 in a direction which is angled slightly toward the interior of the channel 714 of the guide member 618. The guide flanges 940 may be used to prevent the moving member 620 from catching on the stop 926.
In another embodiment, the system 12 may be configured to move between the use configuration 610, the stowed configuration 612, and a third configuration where the upper bed 641 is in the stowed position and the lower bed 640 is in the use position. In this embodiment, the upper bed 641 may be configured to remain in the stowed position when the lower bed 640 is positioned to be used for sleeping thereon.
Referring to
It should be appreciated that the configuration of the holes 944 and the pin 946 may vary widely. For example, the holes 944 in
Referring to
In the embodiment shown in
In one embodiment, the first end 956 of the flexible drive member 616a may be coupled to the moving assembly 950a so that the position of the flexible drive member 616a may be adjusted relative to the moving assembly 950a. Thus, the corners of the lower bed 640 may be adjusted independently to level the lower bed 640. In one embodiment, the moving member 620 may include multiple holes which are used to couple the first end 956 of the flexible drive member 616a to the moving assembly 650a at any one of multiple locations. In another embodiment, the first end 956 of the flexible drive member 616a may be slidably coupled to the moving assembly 650a. Numerous other embodiments may also be provided.
As shown in
Referring to
In the embodiment shown in
It should be appreciated that additional embodiments using two different types of flexible drive members may also be used. For example in another embodiment, the load bearing portion 652 may be a toothed belt (e.g., polyurethane belt) and the return portion 654 may be a strap (e.g., nylon). In this embodiment, the toothed belt may be sewn to the strap or coupled to the strap in any suitable manner. Numerous additional embodiments may also be used.
Referring to
In the embodiment shown in
With continued reference to
It should be appreciated that numerous additional embodiments of the cover 968 may be provided. Also, the cover 968 may be made from a number of suitable materials such as fabric, nylon, polymeric material, and the like. The cover 968 may also include a number of aesthetically pleasing patterns or designs which may match the décor of the area where the system 12 is being used.
Referring to
In the embodiment shown in
The flexible drive members 616c, 616d are coupled to the return sides 644 of the flexible drive members 616a, 616b, respectively, so that when the motor 160 is activated, the moving assemblies 650 move in the same direction. For example, when the motor 160 is activated to raise the moving assembly 650a, the load bearing side 642 of the flexible drive member 616a moves lengthwise in an upward direction, which causes the moving assembly 650a to also move upward. At the same time, the return side 644 of the flexible drive member 616a moves lengthwise in a downward direction. Since the flexible drive member 616c is coupled to the return side 644 of the flexible drive member 616a, the length of the flexible drive member 616c in the lifting assembly 630c becomes shorter which causes the moving assembly 650c to also move upward. When the motor 160 is activated to lower the moving assemblies 650, the moving assemblies 650a, 650b are affirmatively moved downward due to the movement of the endless loop to which they are coupled. The moving assemblies 650c, 650d, however, move downward due to the effects of gravity. In this sense, the embodiment shown in
One advantage to the embodiment of the system 12 shown in
The cross member 614 may have any of a number of suitable configurations. The cross member 614 may be configured similarly to the cross member 614 shown in
Referring to
Referring to
The bushing recess 739 and the bushing protrusion 717 each include a hole 741, 719, respectively. The holes 741, 719 are sized to receive the bearings 726, 728 therein. The idler shaft 673 is sized to be securely received in the holes 732, 734 of the bearings 726, 728. Thus, the idler assembly 777 provides a secure mounting location for the sprocket 725.
It should be appreciated that the idler assembly 777 may be replaced with the yoke assembly 764 or any other suitable assembly. It may be desirable to use the idler assembly to provide additional strength to the lifting assemblies 630a, 630b because the weight on the flexible drive members 616c, 616d is translated to the flexible drive members 616a, 616b as upward tension on the return side 644 of the flexible drive members 616a, 616b. It should also be appreciated that the idler assembly 777 may be provided in the form of a yoke assembly that allows the tension on the flexible drive members 616a, 616b to be adjusted. For example, the bushing protrusion 717 may be coupled to the guide member 618 in a manner that allows it to be moved vertically (e.g., bushing protrusion 717 may be coupled to the guide member 618 using a bolt in a slotted hole, etc.). The cover member 663 may also be coupled to the guide member 618 in a manner that allows it to move vertically (e.g., holes 755 in the guide member may be slotted, etc.). Thus, the tension on the flexible drive members 616a, 616b may be adjusted by adjusting the vertical position of the cover member 663 and the bushing protrusion 717.
Referring to
It should be appreciated that the flexible drive member 616c may be coupled to the flexible drive member 616a in any of a number of ways. For example, the flexible drive member 616c may be welded, bolted, or the like to the flexible drive member 616a. Numerous other ways may also be used to couple the flexible drive members 616c, 616a together.
Referring to
At the upper end 624 of the lifting assemblies 630c, 630d, the flexible drive members 616c, 616d wrap around pulleys 723 and extend downward to the moving assemblies 650c, 650d where the flexible drive members 616c, 616d are coupled to the moving assemblies 650c, 650d, respectively. The flexible drive members 616c, 616d extend downward from the moving assemblies 650c, 650d to the pulleys 723 at the lower end 626 of the lifting assemblies 630c, 630d and back upward to pulleys 723 at the upper end 624 of the lifting assemblies 630c, 630d. From here, the flexible drive members 616c, 616d extend across to the lifting assemblies 630a, 630b, over the pulleys 723, and downward to a location where the second end 797 of the flexible drive members 616c, 616d are coupled to the flexible drive members 616a, 616b, respectively. The ends 795, 797 of the flexible drive members 616c, 616d are coupled to the flexible drive members 616a, 616b at locations that allow the moving assemblies 650 to move along their full range of motion.
The flexible drive members 616c, 616d may be configured as shown in
Referring back to
Referring to
As shown in
In this embodiment, each of the moving assemblies 650 includes a moving member 980 which is sized to vertically move in the channel 714 of the guide member 618. The lower bed 640 may be coupled to the moving members 980 so that the lower bed 640 is moved with the moving members 980. Each moving member 980 includes a front side 982, a rear side 984, a third side 986, and a fourth side 988. The front side 982 is positioned opposite and parallel to the rear side 984, and the third side 986 is positioned opposite and parallel to the fourth side 988. The front side 982, rear side 984, third side 986, and fourth side 988 combine to define a channel or passage 990 through the moving member 980.
The moving member 980 includes a plurality of sprockets which cooperate with the flexible drive member 976a to vertically move the moving member 980 and, thus, the beds 640, 641. In one embodiment, the moving member 980 includes an upper or first sprocket 992, an intermediate or second sprocket 994, and a lower or third sprocket 996, all of which are positioned in a vertically oriented row. The sprockets 992, 994, 996 are coupled to drive shafts which are coupled to the front side 982 and the rear side 984 of the moving member 980. Thus, the sprockets 992, 994, 996 rotate on respective axes which are generally perpendicular to the front side 982 and the rear side 984 of the moving member 980. In one embodiment, the sprockets 992, 994, 996 may be coupled to each respective drive shaft using a pin and hole arrangement. In another embodiment, the axial holes of the sprockets 992, 994, 996 and the drive shafts may have complementary shapes (e.g., hexagonal). Also, the drive shafts may be coupled to the moving member 980 using a fastening clip which is received in a fastening groove in the drive shaft. It may be desirable to couple wear guides 850 to the moving member 980 to provide space between the moving member 980 and the inside of the guide member 618 for the fastening clips to engage the fastening grooves.
The flexible drive member 976 weaves through the sprockets 992, 994, 996 so that the flexible drive member 976 engages the same side of the upper sprocket 992 and the lower sprocket 996—in this embodiment, the side of the upper sprocket 992 and the lower sprocket 994 which is nearest to the third side 986 of the moving member 980—and the opposite side of the intermediate sprocket 994—in this embodiment, the side of the intermediate sprocket 994 which is nearest to the fourth side 988 of the moving member 980. Thus, as the moving member 980 moves in the guide member 618, the upper sprocket 992 and the lower sprocket 996 rotate in the same direction while the intermediate sprocket 994 rotates in the opposite direction. Also, in this embodiment, the moving member 980 moves relative to the flexible drive member 976.
In one embodiment, the flexible drive member 976 is a chain such as a roller chain. It should be understood, however, that any suitable flexible drive member 976 may be provided. For example, the flexible drive member 976 may be a toothed belt configured so that the teeth cooperate with the teeth in the intermediate sprocket 994. The upper sprocket 992 and the lower sprocket 996 may be rollers having a flat surface which cooperates with the side of the toothed belt which does not include teeth. Other embodiments and configurations may also be used. Also, although three sprockets are shown being used in the moving member 980, in other embodiments, two, four, or more sprockets may be used to cooperate with each of the flexible drive members 976 to vertically move the beds 640, 641.
With continued reference to
In one embodiment, the lifting assemblies 630 may be moved together using a drive sprocket 1000 coupled to each of the drive shafts 998, as shown in
In one embodiment, the flexible drive members 1002, 1004 may be chains such as roller chains. In another embodiment, the flexible drive members 1002, 1004 may be toothed belts. Numerous other configurations of the flexible drive members 1002, 1004 may also be provided. Also, it should be appreciated that the drive shafts 998 and the motor assembly 636 may be supported by brackets or other support structure coupled to the moving members 980 and/or to the bed frame 54.
It should be appreciated that the embodiment of system 12 shown in
Referring to
In one embodiment, the front side 982 of the moving member 980 includes a U-shaped portion 1006 which protrudes through the gap 712 of the guide member 618 and opens into the channel 990 of the moving member 980. The sprockets 992, 994, 996 are coupled to drive shafts which are coupled to the sides of the U-shaped portion 1006. The sprockets 992,994, 996 may be coupled to the U-shaped portion 1006 in a manner similar to how the sprockets 992, 994, 996 are coupled to the front side 982 and the rear side 984 of the moving member 980 as explained in connection with
In one embodiment, the distance between the drive shaft 998a and the securing flanges 708, 710 may be insufficient to allow the motor assembly 636 to be positioned up against the U-shaped portion 1006. In this situation, a motor mounting bracket 1008 may be coupled to the U-shaped portion 1006 using fasteners which extend through holes 1010 in the motor mounting bracket 1008 and are received by holes 1012 in the U-shaped portion 1006. The motor mounting bracket 1008 also includes holes 1014, which may be used to couple the motor housing 198 to the motor mounting bracket 1008, and a hole 1016 which the drive shaft 998a passes through.
As shown in
Referring to
Referring to
It should be appreciated that the moving assemblies 650a, 651a may be used to move the beds 640, 641 between the use configuration 610 and the stowed configuration 612 in a number of ways. Many of the ways that may be used have been explained previously (e.g., the upper moving member is held in the use position using a stop and the lower moving member contacts the upper moving member or the lower bed contacts the upper bed to lift both of the beds, etc.). Accordingly, it should be appreciated that the various ways of moving the beds 640, 641 described previously may be used in this embodiment and, for that matter, in any other embodiment disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the stops used to support the upper bed 641 in the use position may be positioned on the outside of the guide member 618. For example, the stop may be coupled to the securing flanges 708, 710. In this embodiment, the plate 1024 of the moving member 1022 may be wider than the plate 1024 of the moving member 1020 so that the moving member 1020 passes by the stop and the plate 1024 of the moving member 1022 engages the stop.
In another embodiment, the second plate 1026 of the moving member 1022 may be configured to include a hook or other protrusion which extends into the channel 714 of the guide member 618. The guide member 618 may be configured to include a plurality of holes in the first side 702 and the second side 704 which are configured to receive a pin 946 (
Referring to
Referring to
In the embodiment shown in
Referring to
In one embodiment, the lower bed 640 may be supported using braces 382 which extend from the lower bed 640 (e.g., from the bed frame 54, bottom side 58, etc.) to the moving assemblies 650a, 650b. As shown in
Referring to
In one embodiment, the lifting assemblies 630 may be configured in a manner similar to the embodiment described in connection with
Referring to
The lifting assembly 630b may be coupled to the second side wall 598 so that the lifting assembly 630b is perpendicular to the lifting assemblies 630a, 630c. In one embodiment, the drive member 634 may be configured to extend from the motor assembly 636 coupled to the lifting assembly 630a to the transmission 200 coupled to the lifting assembly 630b. In this embodiment, the lifting assembly 630a may be coupled sufficiently close to the second side wall 598 that the drive member 634 can be positioned between the motor assembly 636 and the transmission 200. The operation and movement of the lifting assemblies 630a, 630b, 630c may be similar to any analogous embodiments described herein, including, but not limited to, the embodiment shown in
Referring to
In this embodiment, the lifting assemblies 630 are used to vertically move the beds 640, 641 between the use configuration 610 and the stowed configuration 612. The drive members 634a, 634b, 634c (collectively referred to as “the drive members 634”) are used to move the adjacent lifting assemblies 630 in unison. It should be understood that the drive member 634 in
The drive shafts 670 of each respective lifting assembly 630 rotate on axes which are parallel to the base 706 and the securing flanges 708, 710 of the guide member 618. The axes of rotation of the drive shafts 670 are also parallel to the first side wall 16 of the vehicle 10. The drive members 634 may be used to move the drive shafts 670 in unison. In this embodiment, the drive member 634a extends between and engages the drive shafts 670a, 670c. The drive member 634b extends between and engages the drive shafts 226 of the transmissions 200. One of the transmissions 200 may be coupled to each of the drive shafts 670c, 670d of the lifting assemblies 630c, 630d to translate the rotary motion of the drive shafts 670c, 670d to the drive shafts 226 and on to the drive member 634b. The drive member 634c extends between and engages the drive shafts 670d, 670b. The configuration of the drive members 634 and the drive shafts 670 may be similar to that described previously for the drive members 34 and the drive shafts 150.
The motor assembly 636 may be positioned in any of a number of suitable locations. For example, in one embodiment, the motor assembly 636 may be coupled to one of the lifting assemblies 630 and engage one of the drive shafts 670. As shown in
In this embodiment, the sprocket 722 which cooperates with the flexible drive member 616a to vertically move the moving assembly 650a may be coupled to the drive shaft 670a so that the sprocket 722 rotates on the longitudinal axis of the drive shaft 670a. As mentioned previously, the longitudinal axis of the drive shaft 670a is parallel to the base 706 and the securing flanges 708, 710 of the guide member 618. The axis of rotation of the sprocket 722 is also parallel to the first side wall 16. Thus, the axis of rotation of the sprocket 722 has been rotated 90 degrees relative to the axis of rotation of the sprocket 722 shown in
The sprocket 722 is used to move the flexible drive member 616a along an endless path. By coupling the moving assembly 650a to the flexible drive member 616a, the moving assembly 650a also moves along the endless path with the flexible drive member 616a. In one embodiment, the flexible drive member 616a includes a first end 1034 which is coupled to the top of the moving member 620 and a second end 1036 which is coupled to the bottom of the moving member 620. In this manner, the combination of the flexible drive member 616a and the moving member 620 form the endless path which the flexible drive member 616a travels along. The load bearing portion 652 is that portion of the flexible drive member 616a which extends from the first end 1034 of the flexible drive member 616a upward and engages the sprocket 722 as the moving member 620 is raised and lowered. The return portion 654 is that portion of the flexible drive member 616a which extends from the second end 1036 and does not engage the sprocket 722 as the moving member 620 is raised and lowered. Also, as shown in
In one embodiment, the sprocket 722 and the yoke assembly 764 may be positioned so that the flexible drive member 616a moves behind one of the securing flanges 708, 710 in the channel 714 of the guide member 618. This may be desirable to provide a more aesthetically pleasing appearance for the lifting assembly 630a. However, in other embodiments, the flexible drive member 616a may be positioned in the middle of the channel 714 directly behind the gap 712 in the guide member 618. Also, the stops 926 may be used as explained previously. In one embodiment, one of the stops 926 may be used to support the moving assembly 650a when the lower bed 640 is in the use position. In another embodiment, the moving assembly 650 may be supported in the use position by the brake on the motor 160.
As shown in
Referring to
As shown in
Referring to
In the embodiment shown in
Referring to
In one embodiment, the spool 1040 may also include a bore or hole 1046 which extends longitudinally from a first end 1048 of the spool 1040 to a second end 1050 of the spool 1040. The bore 1046 may also be parallel to the axial hole 1044. The bore 1046 is sized to receive the flexible drive member 616a, which in this embodiment is a cable. A length of cable may be provided which is sufficient to provide the endless loop and to wrap on the spool 1040 as shown in
As shown in
In one embodiment, shown in
Referring to
In one embodiment, the fastener 1060 includes a threaded portion 1074 and an engaging portion 1076. The fastener 1060 is configured to extend through axial holes in the end plates 1062, 1064, the spool 1058, and the side of the moving member 620. The cross-section of the engaging portion 1076 of the fastener 1060 is shaped to engage the axial holes in the end plates 1062, 1064 and the spool 1058 so that the fastener 1060 rotates together with the end plates 1062, 1064 and the spool 1058. In one embodiment, the engaging portion 1076 of the fastener 1060 and the axial holes in the end plates 1062, 1064 and the spool 1058 may have square cross-sections. It should be appreciated that the engaging portion 1076 and the axial holes may have any suitable configuration so long as they move together. For example, in another embodiment, the engaging portion 1076 and the axial holes may have corresponding hexagonal shapes. The fastener 1060 is sized so that the threaded portion extends through the axial hole in the moving member 620. The fastener 1060 is configured to rotate independently of the moving member 620. The fastener 1060 engages a nut 1078 and washers 1080 to couple the timing mechanism 1056 to the moving member 620.
The operation of the timing mechanism 1056 may be as follows. In one embodiment, the moving member 620 includes a plurality of protrusions or bumps 1082 which engage recesses or indentations 1084 in the second end plate 1064. Thus, when the nut 1078 is tightened onto the fastener 1060, the protrusions 1082 cooperate with the recesses 1084 to prevent the timing mechanism 1056 from rotating relative to the moving member 620. In order to use the timing mechanism 1056 to adjust the position of the moving assembly 650a, the nut 1078 and fastener 1060 are loosened sufficiently to allow the timing mechanism 1056 to be rotated relative to the moving member 620. The timing mechanism 1056 may be rotated using an opening 1086 at the end of the threaded portion 1074. The torque required to rotate the timing mechanism 1056 may be adjusted by tightening or loosening the nut 1078. As shown in
It should be appreciated that although this embodiment shows the use of a cable as the flexible drive member 616a, other flexible drive materials may also be used. For example, in another embodiment, the flexible drive member 616a may be a chain which is configured to wrap on the spool 1040 so that one of the load bearing portion or the return portion wraps on the spool 1040 while the other of the load bearing portion or the return portion wraps off the spool 1040. Other types of flexible drive material may be used as well.
In another embodiment of the lifting assembly 630a, shown in
The moving assemblies 650a, 651a may be supported in the use configuration in any of the ways previously described. As shown in
Referring to
The drive assembly in the embodiment shown in
As shown in
Spools 1112a, 1112b are coupled to the rigid drive member 1100a at a location adjacent to the third side 1108 of the bed 1090. Likewise, spools 1112c, 1112d are coupled to the rigid drive member 1100b at a location adjacent to the fourth side 1110 of the bed 1090. In one embodiment, the rigid drive members 1100 may include a drive shaft similar to the drive shafts 670 which is coupled to the spools 1112 (e.g., the drive shaft may extend through axial holes in the spools 1112). The rigid drive members 1100 may include a drive member similar to drive member 34b (
Referring to
Referring to
In one embodiment, variations in the width between the side walls 16, 18 may be accounted for using the pin 1092 and the oversized opening 852 in a manner similar to that described previously. The bed 1090 moves toward and away from the guide member 618 as the width varies between the side walls 16, 18. As the bed 1090 moves toward and away from the guide member 618, the frame member 1114 also moves back and forth in the channel 714 of the guide member 618. In this manner, the width variations between the side walls 16, 18 may be compensated for.
In another embodiment, illustrated in
Referring to
It should be appreciated that numerous embodiments may be used to couple the cables 1102 to the upper ends 624 of the lifting assemblies 630. For example, in another embodiment, the anchor bracket 1120 may be integrally formed with the guide member 618. In yet another embodiment, the cable 1102a may be coupled to a spool at the upper end 624 of the guide member 618. The spool may rotate on a shaft and be used to selectively adjust the tension of the cable 1102a. Numerous other embodiments may also be used.
Referring to
In another embodiment, the pulley 1116 may be included as part of the moving assemblies 650 as shown in
It should be appreciated that the rigid drive members 1100, the motor assembly 636, and/or the spools 1112 may be coupled to the bed 1090 in any of a number of suitable ways. Numerous configurations of mounting brackets, bearings, as well as other components and/or mounting structures which are suitable to couple the rigid drive members 1100, the motor assembly 636, and/or the spools 1112 to the bed 1090 may be used. The specific configuration of the mounting structures used may depend on the particular configuration of the bed 1090 and the rigid drive members 1100, the motor assembly 636, and/or the spools 1112. Accordingly, the details of how these components are coupled to the bed 1090 are not shown in
In one embodiment, as shown in
In another embodiment, as shown in
In one embodiment the rotation of the spools 1112a, 1112b, and the spools 1112c, 1112d may be synchronized using sprockets 1134 and chains 1136. For example, one of the sprockets 1134 may be coupled to the rigid drive members 1100a, 1100b and another sprocket 1134 coupled to the offset rigid drive members used with the offset spools 1112b, 1112d. The chains 1136 cooperate with the respective sprockets 1134 on the rigid drive members 1100a, 1100b to rotate the spools 1112a, 1112b and the spools 1112c, 1112d in unison. It should be appreciated that the spools 1112a, 1112b and the spools 1112c, 1112d may be rotated together in a number of ways. For example, in another embodiment, a gear may be coupled to the rigid drive members 1100 and a corresponding gear coupled to the offset rigid drive members used with the offset spools 1112b, 1112d. The gears may be configured to mesh with each other to rotate the spools 1112 together. Numerous additional embodiments may also be used.
It should be appreciated that the cables 1102 may be configured to wrap on the spools 1112 in any of a number of ways so that when the rigid drive members 1100 rotate the bed 1090 moves in the same direction at each lifting assembly 630. For example, as shown in
Referring to
As shown in
The cables 1102 are configured to extend from the spools 1112 to the pulleys 1116 and upward to the anchor assemblies 1118. In the embodiment shown in
In another embodiment, shown in
Another embodiment of the system 12 is shown in
In one embodiment, the pulleys 1138a, 1138b and the pulleys 1138c, 1138d may be provided as a double pulley assembly, respectively, with one double pulley assembly being positioned adjacent to the fourth side 1110 of the bed 1090 and another double pulley assembly being positioned adjacent to the third side 1108 of the bed 1090. The pulleys in each double pulley assembly may be positioned one above another as shown in
In another embodiment, shown in
Referring to
Cables 1102b, 1102d extend from the spools 1112b, 1112d, respectively, downward through the channels 714 of the guide members 618 to the moving members 620 of the moving assemblies 650b, 650d. The Cables 1102b, 1102d may be coupled to the moving members 620 in any suitable manner. Cables 1102a, 1102c extend from the spools 1112a, 1112c, respectively, to pulleys 1140 coupled to the upper ends 624 of the lifting assemblies 630a, 630c. The cables 1102a, 1102c wrap around the pulleys 1140 and extend downward through the channels 714 of the guide members 618 and are coupled to the moving members 620 of the moving assemblies 650a, 650c, respectively.
The motor assembly 636 may be coupled to the guide member 618 of the lifting assembly 630b, as shown in
In operation, the bed 1090 may be raised and lowered as the cables 1102 wrap on or off the spools 1112. This embodiment may be desirable due to its simplicity and relatively low cost.
Referring to
Referring to
The cables 1102 extend away from the spools 1112 toward the side walls 16, 18 where the cables 1102 wrap around the pulleys 1140 positioned at the upper end of the lifting assemblies 630. The cables 1102 extend from the pulleys 1140 and are coupled to the moving assemblies 650. Thus, as the motor assembly 636 rotates, the cables 1102 wrap on or wrap off the spools 1112 and, hence, vertically move the bed 1090.
It should be appreciated that the embodiment shown in
Referring to
Referring to
The cables 1102a, 1102c extend from the spools 1112a, 1112c to the pulleys 1140 coupled to the lifting assemblies 630a, 630c and downward to the moving assemblies 650a, 650c. The cables 1102b, 1102d extend downward from the spools 1112b, 1112d to the moving assemblies 650b, 650d. In operation, the cables 1102 wrap on and off the spools 1112 depending on the direction that the rigid drive member 1100 is rotated. In this manner, the bed 1090 may be selectively raised and lowered as desired.
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
The cables are coupled to the spools 1112 and extend upward to the pulleys 1144. The pulleys 1144 are positioned so that the cables 1102b, 1102d extend further up than the cables 1102a, 1102c. The cables 1102c, 1102d extend from the pulleys 1144 toward the lifting assembly 630c. The cable 1102c wraps over the pulley 1140 coupled to the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630c and extends downward to where the cable 1102c is coupled to the moving assembly 650c. The cable 1102d wraps around the pulley 1146 coupled to the first side wall 16 above the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630c and extends toward the lifting assembly 630d. The cable 1102d wraps over the pulley 1140 coupled to the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630d and extends downward to where the cable 1102d is coupled to the moving assembly 650d.
The cables 1102a, 1102b are configured similarly to the cables 1102c, 1102d. The cables 1102a, 1102b extend from the pulleys 1144 toward the lifting assembly 630a. The cable 1102a wraps over the pulley 1140 coupled to the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630 and extends downward to where the cable 1102a is coupled to the moving assembly 650a. The cable 1102b wraps around the pulley 1146 coupled to the first side wall 16 above the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630a and extends toward the lifting assembly 630b. The cable 1102b wraps over the pulley 1140 coupled to the upper end of the lifting assembly 630b and extends downward to where the cable 1102b is coupled to the moving assembly 650b. Thus, when the rigid drive member 1100 is rotated, the cables 1102 wrap on or off the spools 1112 resulting in the bed 1090 being moved vertically.
It should be appreciated that the embodiment shown in
Referring to
During operation, the motor assembly 636 rotates the rigid drive member 1100 to wrap the cables 1148 on or off the spools 1150 and, thus, move the bed 1090 vertically. It should be appreciated, that other embodiments may also be used. For example, the pulleys 1116 may be coupled to the bed frame 54 so that the cables 1148 extend through the bed frame 54. Numerous additional embodiments may also be provided.
Referring to
The cables 1148a, 1148b extend from the spools 1150a, 1150b to the moving assemblies 650b, 650d, respectively. The cables 1148 are coupled to the moving assemblies 650b, 650d so that as the spools 1150 rotate, typically by being driven by the motor assembly 636, the cables 1148 wrap on or off the spools 1150, thus moving the moving assemblies 650b, 650d. As the moving assemblies 650b, 650d move vertically, the cables 1152 serve to maintain the bed 1090 in a horizontal orientation.
It should be appreciated that the embodiment shown in
Referring to
In the embodiment described in
Referring to
It should be appreciated that the embodiment shown in
Referring to
The a first end 1162 of the chain 1160a is coupled to the moving assembly 650c. The chain 1160a extends upwards from the moving assembly 650c and wraps around the sprocket 1158 coupled to the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630c. From there, the chain 1160a extends downward to the sprocket 1158 coupled to the moving member 620 of the moving assembly 650c. The chain 1160a extends in a generally horizontal direction from the sprocket 1158 of the moving assembly 650c to the sprocket 1158 coupled to the moving member 620 of the moving assembly 650a. The moving members 620 of the moving assemblies 650a, 650c include gaps 1168 to allow the chain 1160a to extend between the sprockets 1158. In one embodiment, the moving member may have a C shaped cross-section with the gap 1168 cooperating with the gap 712 in the guide member to allow the chain 1160a to extend from the sprockets 1158 of adjacent moving assemblies 650. In another embodiment, holes may be provided in the moving members 620 to allow the chain 1160a to extend between the sprockets 1158 of the moving assemblies 650. Numerous other configurations of the moving assemblies 650 may be provided to allow the chains 1160 to extend between the sprockets 1158 of the moving assemblies 650.
The chain 1160a extends upward from the sprocket 1158 of the moving assembly 650a to the sprocket coupled to the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630a. From there, the chain 1160a extends downward to the sprocket 1158 coupled to the lower end 626 of the lifting assembly 630a. The chain 1160a wraps around the sprocket 1158 and extends upward to another sprocket 1158 coupled to the moving member 620 of the moving assembly 650a. The chain 1160a extends horizontally from this sprocket 1158 to another sprocket 1158 coupled to the moving member 620 of the moving assembly 650c. From here, the chain 1160a extends downward, wraps around the sprocket 1158 coupled to the lower end 626 of the lifting assembly 630c, and extends back upward to where a second end 1164 of the chain 1160a is coupled to the moving assembly 650c. The chain 1160b is configured in the same manner with respect to the lifting assemblies 630b, 630d. Thus, the manner in which the chain 1160b passes through and between the lifting assemblies 630b, 630d is a mirror image of the manner in which the chain 1160a passes through and between the lifting assemblies 630a, 630c.
The motor assembly 636 is coupled to the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630a. The motor assembly engages a drive shaft which is used to rotate the sprocket 1158 coupled to the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630a. The drive member 634 extends from the motor assembly 636 to the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630b. The drive member 634 engages a drive shaft which is used to rotate the sprocket 1158 at the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630b. In this manner, movement of the chains 1160a, 1160b may be synchronized with each other. During operation, the motor assembly 636 is used to rotate the sprockets 1158 coupled to the upper ends 624 of the lifting assemblies 630a, 630b.
In one embodiment, cross members 1166 may be coupled between the moving assemblies 650a, 650c and the moving assemblies 650b, 650d, respectively, to conceal the portion of the chains 1160 which extend between the moving assemblies 650. The cross members 1166 may be coupled to the moving assemblies 650b, 650d in any of a number of suitable ways such as welding, bolting, and so on.
Although not shown, it should be appreciated that one or more beds (additional beds may be coupled to the lifting assemblies using additional moving members as described previously) may be moved vertically using the system 12 shown in
It should be appreciated that the embodiment shown in
In another embodiment, shown in
In one embodiment, shown in
Referring to
Referring to
The chains 1160 are configured to form at least part of an endless loop which extends through the lifting assemblies 630a, 630c and the lifting assemblies 630b, 630d. The configuration of the chain 1160a is described in greater detail with the understanding that a similar discussion may be provided for the chain 1160b since the chain 1160b is a mirror image of the chain 1160a.
As shown in
The motor assembly 636 and the drive member 634 may be coupled between any one of the sprockets 722, 724 of the lifting assemblies 630a, 630c and any one of the sprockets 722, 724 of the lifting assemblies 630b, 630d. As shown in
Referring to
The cables 1172a, 1172b are configured to cooperate with the spools 1170a, 1170b, respectively, in a manner which is similar to the embodiment shown in
A first end 1174 of the cable 1172a is coupled to the moving assembly 650b. The cable 1172 extends upward from the moving assembly 650b, over the pulley 1140 coupled to the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630b, and across to the spool 1170a. The cable 1172a wraps on the spool 1170a as described above. The cable 1172a extends downward from the spool 1170a, wraps around the pulley 1140 coupled to the lower end 626 of the lifting assembly 630a, and extends upward to the pulley 1140 coupled to the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630a. Also, the portion of the cable 1172a between the pulleys 1140 is coupled to the moving assembly 650a so that the moving assembly 650a moves with the cable 1172a. From the pulley 1140, the cable 1172 extends horizontally to another pulley 1140 coupled to the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630b. From here, the cable 1172a extends downward, wraps around the pulley 1140 coupled to the lower end 626 of the lifting assembly 630b, and extends upward to where a second end 1176 of the cable 1172a is coupled to the moving assembly 650b.
During operation, the rigid drive member 1100 is rotated by the motor assembly 636 resulting in the cables 1172 simultaneously winding on and off the spools 1170. As the cables 1172 wind on and off the spools 1170, the cables 1172 move along the endless path described above to vertically move the moving assemblies 650 and the bed. Typically, the cables 1172 are used to reciprocally and translationally move the bed.
Referring to
The details of the manner in which the cable 1172a extends between the lifting assemblies 630a, 630b are described. However, the cable 1172b extends between the lifting assemblies 630c, 630d in a similar fashion so that much, if not all, of the description of the cable 1172a is applicable to the cable 1172b. The first end 1174 of the cable 1172a is coupled to the moving assembly 650b. The cable 1172a extends upward from the moving assembly 650b, over the pulley 1140, and downward to one of the pulleys 1116 coupled to the bed frame 54. From here, the cable 1172a extends horizontally to one of the pulleys 1116 coupled to the bed frame 54 adjacent to the moving assembly 650a. The cable 1172a extends upward from the pulley 1116 to the spool 1170a where the cables wraps around the spool 1170a as described previously. The cable 1172a extends downward from the spool 1170a, wraps around the pulley 1140 coupled to the lower end 626 of the lifting assembly 630a, and extends upward to the other pulley 1116 coupled to the bed frame 54. From here, the cable 1172a extends through the bed frame 54 to the pulley 1116 coupled to the bed frame 54 adjacent to the moving assembly 650b. The cable 1172a wraps over the pulley 1116, extends downward to and wraps around the pulley 1140 coupled to the lower end 626 of the lifting assembly 630b, and extends upward to where the second end 1176 is coupled to the moving assembly 650b. Thus, as the spools 1170 rotate, the cables 1172 raise and/or lower the moving assemblies 650.
In one embodiment, as shown in
Referring to
It should be appreciated that the embodiment shown in
Another embodiment of the system 12 is shown in
The first end 1174 of the cable 1172a is coupled to the moving assembly 650a. The cable 1172a extends upward from the moving assembly 650a to the spool 1170a where the cable 1172a wraps on the spool 1170a as previously described. From there, the cable 1172a extends downward, wraps around the pulley 1140 coupled to the lower end 626 of the lifting assembly 630a, and extends upward to the pulley 1116 included with the moving assembly 650a. From the pulley 1116, the cable 1172a extends underneath the bed 1090 to the pulley 1116 included with the moving assembly 650b. The cable 1172a extends upward, wraps around the pulley 1140 coupled to the upper end 624 of the lifting assembly 630b, and extends downward to the pulley 1140 coupled to the lower end 626 of the lifting assembly 630b. The cable 1172a extends upward from the pulley 1140 coupled to the lower end 626 of the lifting assembly 630b to where the second end 1176 of the cable 1172a is coupled to the moving assembly 650b.
During operation, the spools 1170 lift the moving assemblies 650a, 650c. The cables 1172 extending underneath the bed 1090 and between the lifting assemblies 630a, 630b and the lifting assemblies 630c, 630d are used to transmit the lifting force to the moving assemblies 650b, 650d. Thus, the moving assemblies 650 and the bed 1090 may be selectively raised and lowered.
Referring to
The lifting assemblies 1230 each include a drive mechanism 1290 a moving assembly 1250, and a support assembly 1260. Each moving assembly 1250 includes a moving member, which in this embodiment is a nut 1220, that cooperates with a drive member, which in this embodiment is a screw 1202, to vertically move the bed 640. Each support assembly 1260 includes a support or guide member, which in this embodiment is a tube 1218. The drive mechanism 1290 transmits the rotary motion of the drive members 634 to rotary motion of the screw 1202 using bevel gears 1206. The drive members 634 engage the drive shaft 1240 of the drive mechanism 1290 in a manner similar to that which has been previously described in relation to other embodiments. The transmission 200 is used to transmit the rotary motion of the drive shaft 1240 to rotary motion of the drive member 634b.
During operation, as the motor assembly 636 rotates the screws 1202 of each lifting assembly, the nut 1220 moves vertically. The mounting member 840 is coupled to the nut 1220 and extends through a gap or slot 1212 in the tube 1218. The bed 640 is coupled to the mounting member 840 so that the bed 640 moves vertically with the moving assembly 1250. An additional bed which is superposed with the bed 640 may also be moved vertically. The additional bed may be coupled to another moving member positioned in the tube 1218 without engaging the screw 1202. The another moving member and the nut 1220 may be configured differently so that the another moving member will support the additional bed in a spaced apart position. Numerous other embodiments may also be provided.
Referring to
In one embodiment, the lower bed 640 may be configured to move between the sleeping configuration 1302 and the seating configuration 1304 by pivoting along a longitudinal axis 1310 of the lower bed 640. The bed frame 54 may include a pivot mechanism which is used to pivot the lower bed 640 on the axis 1310. Any of a number of suitable pivot mechanisms may be used. For example, any of the pivot mechanism commonly used for futon beds may be used. In one embodiment, the pivot mechanism may be the mechanism commonly referred to as “the kicker.” In another embodiment, the pivot mechanism may be a metal mechanism which provides a low profile. In another embodiment, the pivot mechanism may be the mechanism referred to as Triple-Ease™ provided by the Fashion Bed Group of Leggett & Platt, Incorporated, Consumer Products Unit, Number 1 Leggett Road, Carthage, Mo. 64836. Any other suitable wood, metal, plastic, etc. pivot mechanism may be used.
The mattress 52 may be any suitable mattress which is capable of being repeatedly pivoted as shown. Suitable mattresses may include those commonly found on futon beds. The bed frame 54 may include retaining members 1312 which may be used to prevent the mattress 52 from sliding off the lower bed 640 when the lower bed 640 is in the seating configuration 1304. The retaining members 1312 may also be used by the user to move the lower bed 640 between the sleeping configuration 1302 and the seating configuration 1304. It should be appreciated that the lower bed 640 may be converted into a seating unit in any of a number of suitable ways.
When the lower bed 640 is in the seating configuration 1304, the lower bed 640 may be selectively face toward the interior of the vehicle 10 or toward the exterior of the vehicle 10 through the opening 48. For example, the portion of the lower bed 640 that forms the seat back 1306 when the lower bed 640 faces one direction may be configured to form the seat base 1308 when the lower bed 640 faces the opposite direction. Likewise, the portion of the lower bed 640 that forms the seat base 1308 when the lower bed 640 faces one direction may be configured to form the seat back 1306 when the lower bed 640 faces the opposite direction.
Referring to
It should be appreciated that, although the lower bed 640 is shown in
In the embodiment shown in
It should be appreciated that the lower bed 640 may have any of a number of configurations. For example, the lower bed 640 may pivot along multiple longitudinal axes. The multiple longitudinal axes may form one or more intermediate sections that are positioned between the first side 1408 and the second side 1410. It may especially be desirable to pivot the lower bed 640 along multiple longitudinal axes when the lower bed 640 is relatively large (e.g., queen size, king size, etc.). Folding or pivoting a king size lower bed 640 in the middle may result in the seat base 1308 being so deep that a user that sits on the seat base 1308 does not comfortably reach the seat back 1306. In this situation, the lower bed 640 may pivot on two longitudinal axes so that the seat base 1308 is a comfortable depth regardless of the direction that the lower bed 640 faces in the seating configuration 1304.
The lower bed 640 may be part of a lower bed assembly that includes the mattress 1452, a bed frame 1454, and the moving assemblies 650. The bed frame 1454 may be configured similarly to the bed frame 54 described herein. The bed frame 1454 is shown in greater detail in
The fixed frame 1412 is shown separately in
It should be appreciated that the configuration of the fixed frame 1412 may be varied in a number of ways. For example, the fixed frame 1412 may include cross members that extend from the first end frame member 1416 to the second end frame member 1418. The additional cross members may be provided in place of the cross frame members 1424 or in addition to the cross frame members 1424. Also, the frame members 1416, 1418, 1420, 1422 are shown as being made from angle iron, but it should be appreciated that the frame members 1416, 1418, 1420, 1422 may be made to have any suitable shape such as tubular, C-channel, etc. and from any suitable material such as steel, plastic, composites, wood, or the like. In addition, the cross frame members 1420, 1422 may be coupled between the far ends of the end frame members 1416, 1418 to form a rectangle as shown in
The movable frame 1414 is shown separately in
The movable frame 1414 may also include a plurality of slats 1434 that fit within a corresponding plurality of opposed supports 1436 that define openings to receive the slats 1434. The slats 1434 can move longitudinally in and out of the openings in the supports 1436. The slats 1434 may also be arched so that when a user sits or lays on the lower bed 640, the slats 1434 are compressed which reduces the arch of the slats 1434 and forces the slats 1434 further into the openings in the supports 1436. The use of the slats 1434 and the supports 1436 may provide a comfortable and lightweight way to provide extra support to the user of the lower bed 640.
The movable frame 1414 may be supported in the seating configuration 1304 in any of a number of ways. For example, in
It should be appreciated that the bed frame 1454 may be configured in a number of different ways. For example, the bed frame 1454 need not be divided into a fixed frame and a movable frame. In some embodiments, the bed frame 145 may include a movable component that is closely integrated into a fixed support component. Also, the configuration of the fixed frame 1412 and the movable frame 1414 may be varied in a number of different ways.
Referring to
It should be appreciated that, although the lower bed 640 is shown in
The lower bed 640 includes a first side or section 1408 and a second side or section 1410. The lower bed 640 also includes a headrest section 1450 and a footrest section 1456. The lower bed 640 pivots in the center along the longitudinal axis 1310 to move between the sleeping configuration 1302 and the seating configuration 1304. The lower bed 640 may also pivot along axis 1311 and/or axis 1309 to move between the sleeping configuration 1302 and a third configuration where the headrest section 1450 and/or the footrest section 1456 are raised. The headrest section 1450 may be raised to allow a user to read, eat, or the like. The footrest section 1456 may be raised to increase return blood flow from the legs or for other therapeutic purposes. The areas where the lower bed 640 may pivot (e.g., axes 1309, 1310, 1311) may be made from an expandable material such as Spandex to allow the surface of the lower bed 640 to pivot and stretch to form the seating unit in the seating configuration 1304. In other embodiments, the first side 1408, the second side 1410, the headrest section 1450, and/or the footrest section 1456 may be made from completely separate sections that are unconnected to each other. It should also be understood that the mattress 1456 may have any of the features, characteristics, or configurations of the mattress 52 described previously.
The lower bed 640 is part of a lower bed assembly that includes the mattress 1452, the bed frame 1454, and the moving assemblies 650. The bed frame 1454 includes a fixed frame 1458 and a movable frame 1460. The movable frame 1460 is supported by and coupled to the fixed frame 1458.
The fixed frame 1458 includes a first end frame member 1462 and a second end frame member 1464. The first end frame member 1462 extends parallel and adjacent to the side wall 16 and adjacent to the lifting assemblies 630a, 630c. The second end frame member 1464 extends parallel and adjacent to the side wall 18 and adjacent to the lifting assemblies 630b, 630d. The fixed frame 1458 also includes cross members 1466, 1468 that extend between the end frame members 1462, 1464 and cross members 1470 that extend between the cross members 1466, 1468. It should be appreciated that the fixed frame 1458 may have many different configurations. In particular, the number, orientation, etc. of the various frame members may be modified to suit the particular situation.
In one embodiment the cross members 1466, 1468 that extend between the end frame members 1462, 1464 may be telescopic to allow for easy adjustment of the bed frame 1454 to fit between side walls 16, 18 that are spaced apart a variety of distances. For example, a single bed frame 1454 may be capable of extending or retracting lengthwise to fit between the side walls 16, 18 of a number of different recreational vehicles. Furthermore, the telescopic arrangement of the cross members 1466, 1468 may compensate for the variation in width between the side walls 16, 18 as the lower bed 640 moves up and down. As shown in FIGS. 233 and 236-237, the cross members 1446, 1448 may be shaped like a C-channel with the cross member 1446 being sized so that it can be received in the cross member 1448. In this manner, the cross members 1446, 1448 may freely move telescopically to allow the lower bed 640 to be installed in any suitable vehicle or structure. Alternatively, the cross member 1448 may be sized to be received by the cross member 1446 as shown in
The movable frame 1460 includes a first section 1472 and a second section 1474 that correspond to the first side 1408 and the second side 1410 of the lower bed 640. The first section 1472 and the second section 1474 are each pivotally coupled to the fixed frame 1458 at the cross members 1470 using a ratchet type mechanism that holds the sections 1472, 1474 in place until the sections 1472, 1474 are fully raised at which point the ratchet type mechanism resets to allow the sections 1472, 1474 to be fully lowered. The ratchet type mechanism is included in a mounting member or bracket 1476 (
The movable frame 1460 may also include a headrest portion 1480 and a footrest portion 1482 that correspond to the headrest section 1450 and the footrest section 1456, respectively, of the lower bed 640. The headrest portion 1480 and the footrest portion 1482 are each pivotally coupled to intermediate portions 1484 of the sections 1472, 1474 at connecting points 1486. It should be noted that only
The movable frame 1460 may also include a plurality of slats 1434 that fit within a corresponding plurality of opposed supports 1436 in a manner similar to that previously described. A bed and/or movable frame which may be similar to the lower bed 640 and movable frame shown in FIGS. 234 and 238-241 may be obtained from Innovation USA, Inc., 7453 Candlewood Rd. #B, Hanover, Md. 21076.
Referring to
It should be appreciated that, although the lower bed 640 may be used with any of the systems 12 and associated lifting assemblies 30, 630 described herein. The lower bed 640 may be used with or without the upper bed 641 and/or any of the other features and configurations of the various embodiments described herein. The lower bed 640 may be any suitable size including any size previously mentioned in relation to the lower beds 40, 640.
In the embodiment shown in
The lower bed 640 includes a bed frame 1454 that may be configured similarly to the bed frame 1454 shown in FIGS. 233 and 236-237. The bed frame 1454 may include a fixed frame 1458 and a movable frame 1460. In the embodiment shown in
In the embodiment shown in
The lockable support members 1488 may be actuated using a handle 1490 and rod 1492 arrangement as shown in
The lockable support member 1488 is generally coupled to the fixed frame 1458 at a suitable location to allow the side 1408, 1410 to pivot upward upon extension of the lockable support member 1488. Also, the force provided by the lockable support member 1488 may be varied as required.
Referring to
In the embodiment shown in
As shown in
The lower bed 640 is part of a lower bed assembly that includes the bed frame 1454, the lower bed 640, and the moving assemblies 650. The bed frame 1454 includes a first end frame member 1462 and a second end frame member 1464. The first end frame member 1462 and the second end frame member 1464 are spaced apart and extend parallel to each other. The lower bed 640 slides horizontally in a direction that is parallel to the end frame members 1462, 1464. The bed frame 1454 also includes cross members 1466 that extend between the end frame members 1462, 1464 and cross members 1470 (not shown in
The cross members 1466 are positioned far enough from the ends of the end frame members 1462, 1464 that the cross members 1466 do not obstruct the additional space created when the seat base 1308 slides horizontally to convert the lower bed 640 from the sleeping configuration 1302 to the seating configuration 1304. The cross members 1470 may be positioned between the cross members 1466 to provide additional strength.
The lower bed 640 may move between the sleeping configuration 1302 and the seating configuration 1304 in any of a number of ways. For example in one embodiment, the sides 1408, 1410 may be coupled to the bed frame 1454 using a flange (e.g., a steel plate positioned horizontally) which slides in a C-channel (i.e., the end frame members 1462, 1464 may be C-channel shaped with the opening being on a top side). At each end of travel of the C-channel, ball bearings may be biased (e.g., spring, etc.) to protrude part of the way into the channel from both the top and the bottom of the C-channel. The flange may include indentations that cooperate with the ball bearings to secure the lower bed 640 in the seating configuration 1304. The manner in which the sides 1408, 1410 slide relative to the bed frame 1454 and the manner in which the lower bed 640 is secured in the seating configuration 1304 may be varied widely.
The lower bed 640 may also be configured to use the lockable support members 1488 described in connection with
The lockable support members 1488 may be actuated using the handle 1490 and rod 1492 mechanism described in connection with
The lockable support members 1488 may be coupled to the end frame members 1462, 1464 in any of a number of suitable ways. For example, as shown in
It should be appreciated that the lower bed 640 and the lower bed assembly of which it is a part may be configured in a variety of ways. For example the lower bed 640 may be provided as four longitudinal sections pivotally coupled together. Typically, the number of longitudinal sections that the lower bed 640 is divided into depends on the size of the lower bed 640 (e.g., queen, king, twin, etc.), the size of the seat back 1306, the size of the seat base 1308, and the distance that the seat base 1308 slides horizontally.
Referring to
In one embodiment, the lower bed 640 may include a base 1324 which is provided in three sections or portions 1326, 1328, 1330 which correspond, respectively, to the table 1316 and the seating units 1318, 1320. The mattress 1452 may be divided into four portions 1322 with two of the portions 1322 being configured to be placed over the table section 1326 so that when the table section 1326 of the base is positioned to be used as the table 1316, one portion 1322 may be used as a back cushion for one of the seating units 1318 and the other portion 1322 may be used as a back cushion for the other seating unit 1320.
The bed frame 1454 may comprise angle iron frame members which extend around the perimeter of the lower bed 640 and are configured to support the base 1324 of the lower bed 640 when in the sleeping configuration 1302. The angle iron frame members include a front frame member or cross frame member 1332 and a rear frame member or cross frame member 1334 as well as numerous additional cross frame members that extend between the frame members 1332, 1334. The table section 1326 of the base 1324 may be pivotally coupled to the rear frame member 1334 using the support brace 1336 and a pivot mechanism 1340. The support brace pivots along an axis 1338 which is offset below the rear frame member 1334 so that the table section 1326 may be supported by the rear frame member 1334 without interference from the pivot mechanism 1340. In one embodiment, the support brace 1336 may be configured to slide along the underside of the table section 1326 in order to raise the table section 1326. The sliding movement may be provided using blocks coupled to the support brace 1336 which slidably cooperate with channels coupled to the underside of the table section 1326. The side of the table 1316 supported by the front frame member 1332 may be supported using a leg or support member 1342. In one embodiment, the leg 1342 may be configured to fold up against the underside of the table 1316 when the table section 1326 is supported by the front frame member 1332 and the rear frame member 1334. It should be appreciated that numerous other embodiments may also be used to raise and/or support the table 1316 in the dining configuration 1314.
In one embodiment, the front frame member 1332 of the bed frame 1454 may be divided into frame sections 1348, 1350, 1352, 1354 so that the frame sections 1350, 1352 which support the table section 1326 may fold down at the corners 1344, 1346 of the seating units 1318, 1320, respectively. The height of the lower bed 640 may be adjusted so that the leg 1342 and the frame sections 1350, 1352 of the front frame member 1332 reach the floor 26. A hinge or other suitable pivot mechanism may be provided to allow the frame sections 1350, 1352 to pivot relative to the frame sections 1348, 1354, respectively. When the lower bed 640 is in the sleeping configuration 1302, the frame sections 1350, 1352 may be coupled together using a pin 1356 which slidably engages sleeves 1358 on adjacent ends of the frame sections 1350, 1352.
It should be appreciated that numerous additional embodiments may also be provided. For example, in one embodiment, the front frame member 1332 may be one continuous piece. In this embodiment, users may need to step over the front frame member 1332 to sit on the seating units 1318, 1320. In another embodiment, a folding table 1360 may be used in place of the table 1316. As shown in
Referring to
As shown in
Referring to
It should be appreciated that the embodiment shown in
The lower bed 640 shown in
The sections of the lower bed 640 may be coupled together to allow the lower bed to move to a seating configuration 1304 where a first seating unit 1530 is positioned adjacent to the first side wall 16 and a second seating unit 1532 is positioned adjacent to the second side wall 18. The first seating unit 1530 and the second seating unit 1532 are positioned so that the seating units 1530, 1532 are generally parallel to the side walls 16, 18, respectively. The seating units 1530, 1532 face each other so that a walkway or path 1534 is formed between the seating units 1530, 1532 to allow a person to move from the interior of the vehicle 10 to the exterior of the vehicle 10 through the opening 48.
The first side 1520 may be movable relative to the first intermediate section 1524 and the second side 1522 may be movable relative to the second intermediate section 1526. When the lower bed 640 is in the seating configuration 1304, as shown in
It should be appreciated that there are numerous ways to convert the lower bed 640 into one or more of the seating units 1530, 1532. For example, the first side 1520 may be pivotally coupled to the first intermediate section 1524. Both the first side 1520 and the intermediate section 1524 may also be configured to slide horizontally toward the first side wall 16. A user may lift the first side 1520 while at the same time sliding the first intermediate section 1524 towards the first side wall 16 to provide the first seating unit 1530. A catch mechanism may be used to hold the first side 1520 and the first intermediate section 1524 in the seating configuration 1304. A similar set up may be used to move the second side 1522 and the second intermediate section 1526 to provide the second seating unit 1532. It should be appreciated that the size of the sides 1520, 1522 and the intermediate sections 1524, 1526 may be adjusted depending on which configuration is used to provide a suitable seat back 1306 and seat base 1308. Numerous other configurations may also be used.
Referring to
In another embodiment, the lower bed 640 may be provided in two sections which move between the sleeping configuration 1302 and the seating configuration 1304 in a manner similar to that described in connection with
Referring to
The system 12 may be coupled to the slide-out compartment 1376 so that the beds 640, 641 move with the slide-out compartment between the extended and retracted positions. The lifting assemblies 630a, 630c may be coupled to the first side wall 1378 and the lifting assemblies 630b, 630d may be coupled to the second side wall 1380. The lifting assemblies 630 may be used to move the beds 640, 641 between the use configuration 610, the stowed configuration 612, and the third configuration 440. Because of the limited size of the slide-out compartment 1376, the beds 640, 641 are often single, twin, or double sized beds. Of course, depending on the configuration, the beds 640, 641 may also be larger.
It should be appreciated that numerous modifications may be made to the embodiment shown in
Referring to
Referring to
A number of advantages may be realized by positioning the lifting assemblies 630 in the side walls 16, 18. For example, additional space is freed up between the side walls 16, 18. This may allow the user to transport larger off-road vehicles or other cargo. Also, the interior of the vehicle 10 may be more aesthetically pleasing with the lifting assemblies 630 positioned out of sight. It should be appreciated that the system 12 shown in
It should also be appreciated that the system 12 may be positioned inside the walls of any suitable vehicle. A toy hauler type recreational vehicle may be one type of vehicle where such an arrangement may be desirable. However, it is contemplated that other recreational vehicles such as motorhomes and the like as well as other vehicles or structures may have the system 12 mounted inside the walls.
Referring to
The idler assembly 777 shown and described in
As explained previously, the pin 1546 may be inserted into the holes 1548, 1550 to support one or more of the beds 640, 641 in the raised position. As shown in
Another embodiment of the system 12 is shown in
Referring to
In
It should be appreciated that one wall mounted unit 1556 may be coupled to the first side wall 16 and another wall mounted unit 1556 may be coupled to the second side wall 18. The wall mounted units 1556 may be moved independently of each other, e.g., using separate motors, or may be moved in unison using drive member 634. In another embodiment, a fold down couch or dinette may be coupled to the first side wall 16 below the wall mounted unit 1556. The fold down couch or dinette may also be moved vertically using the system 12. As shown in
In
In another embodiment, the lower wall mounted unit 1562 may be used to provide a counter surface 1564 that is a stand alone surface. The counter surface 1564 may be any suitable counter surface such as Corian, formica, etc. Also, the lower wall mounted unit 1562 may be only a counter surface without the cabinets or cupboards shown in
The upper wall mounted unit 1556 and the lower wall mounted unit 1562 may be raised in a similar manner as the lower bed 640 and the upper bed 641 are raised. For example, the lower wall mounted unit 1562 may be raised initially until it contacted the underside of the upper wall mounted unit 1556 or the moving assemblies 650 contact the moving assemblies 651. From this point on, the wall mounted units 1556, 1562 move upward together to the stowed position. It should be appreciated that the position of the upper wall mounted unit 1556 in the use position may be altered as described in connection with
Referring to
Referring to
The vehicle 10 also includes a number of lifting assemblies 630 which are used to raise and lower the various objects included in the vehicle 10. In the embodiment shown in
The beds 640, 641 are coupled to lifting assemblies 630a, 630b, 630c, 630d using a configuration similar to that shown in
The bed 1570 may also move between the sleeping configuration 1302 and the seating configuration 1304. In one embodiment, the bed 1570 may be configured similarly to the half of the lower bed 640 in
The bed 1570 is positioned directly underneath the cabinets 1572. Both the bed 1570 and the cabinets 1572 may be raised and lowered using additional lifting assemblies 630 included in the first side wall 16. The lifting assemblies 630 may move the bed 1570 until it reaches the cabinets 1572. From this point on, the lifting assemblies 630 move the bed 1570 and the cabinets 1572 together to a stowed configuration. In this manner, the bed 1570 may be used to move the cabinets 1572 between a use position and a stowed position.
The counter 1574 and the entertainment center 1576 are also coupled to additional lifting assemblies 630 included in the second side wall 18. The additional lifting assemblies 630 may be used to move the counter 1574 and the entertainment center 1576 between a use configuration and a stowed configuration. The counter 1574 and the entertainment center 1576 may move vertically in a manner similar to the bed 1570 and the cabinets 1572. For example, the lifting assemblies 630 first move the counter 1574 until it reaches the entertainment center 1576. From this point on, the lifting assemblies 630 move the counter 1574 and the entertainment center 1576 in tandem to the stowed configuration. In one embodiment, a separate motor assembly is provided to raise and lower the beds 640, 641, the bed 1570 and the cabinets 1572, and the counter 1574 and the entertainment center 1576.
It should be appreciated that any combination of the objects mentioned herein may be moved vertically in the vehicle 10. For example, another counter 1574 may be substituted for the bed 1570. Another bed 1570 may be substituted for the counter 1574. Numerous additional embodiments are also contemplated.
Referring to
The vehicle 10 in
Referring to
The vehicle 10 shown in
In one embodiment, the vehicle 10 may be no more than 25 feet in length from the tip of the tongue to the end of the bumper. In other embodiments, the vehicle 10 may be no more than 24, 23, 22, 21, 20, 19, 18, 17, or 16 feet in length. The vehicle 10 may also be configured to have at least about 10 feet of unobstructed cargo space. In other embodiments, the vehicle 10 may have at least about 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or 16 feet of unobstructed cargo space. Unobstructed cargo space is meant to refer to space where there are no major items positioned between the side walls 16, 18 that would substantially impede the loading and/or unloading of off-road vehicles. For example, the cargo area 28 would still be considered “unobstructed cargo space” even though there is a small protrusion into the cargo area 28 near the floor 26 caused by the placement of a fuel filling line. Also, the cargo area 28 would still be considered “unobstructed cargo space” even though one or more couches, dinettes, etc. are fold-up flat against the side walls 16, 18.
Referring to
Each of the lifting assemblies 1390 may include a moving assembly 1392a, 1392b, 1392c, 1392d (collectively referred to as “the moving assemblies 1392”)—alternatively referred to herein as a carriage, a trolley, a sliding unit, or a moving guide assembly—and a guide assembly 1394a, 1394b, 1394c, 1394d (collectively referred to as the “the guide assemblies 1394”)—alternatively referred to herein as a support assembly. It should be noted that the moving assemblies 1392 do not include mounting members 840 which extend outward from the moving assemblies 1392. This may be desirable to prevent the mounting members 840 from interfering with the vertical movement of the beds 640, 641. A support structure (not shown) may be provided which is configured to be coupled to the moving assemblies 1392 and to receive one or more off-road vehicles. The support structure may engage the moving assemblies 1392 by extending through the gap 1396 in the guide assemblies 1394 and resting on the top of the moving assemblies 1392. Numerous additional embodiments may also be provided for how the support structure engages the moving assemblies 1392.
In one embodiment, the off-road vehicles may be four-wheelers. The four-wheelers may be positioned on the support structure so that the handlebars are near the lifting assemblies 1390a, 1390b. The four-wheelers may be raised so that the handlebars are near the ceiling 24 of the vehicle 10 and the seats are near the underside of the lower bed 640. Additional four-wheelers may be backed into the cargo area 28 so that the seats of the additional four-wheelers are positioned underneath the support structure and the handlebars are positioned near the rear wall 22. In this manner, the dual systems 12 may be used to fit additional off-road vehicles into the vehicle 10.
The platform 1600 may be raised as shown in
Referring to
In another embodiment, shown in
Referring to
In another embodiment, shown in
Reference is made in the following to a number of illustrative embodiments of the subject matter described herein. The following embodiments illustrate only a few selected embodiments that may include the various features, characteristics, and advantages of the subject matter as presently described. Accordingly, the following embodiments should not be considered as being comprehensive of all of the possible embodiments. Also, features and characteristics of one embodiment may and should be interpreted to equally apply to other embodiments or be used in combination with any number of other features from the various embodiments to provide further additional embodiments, which may describe subject matter having a scope that varies (e.g., broader, etc.) from the particular embodiments explained below (e.g., embodiments referring to structures or kits may be used to provide additional embodiments of systems which use the components recited as part of the structure, embodiments referring to structures or systems may be used to provide additional embodiments of kits which include one or more components of the structures or systems, embodiments referring to multiple beds may be used to provide additional embodiments using only one bed, embodiments referring to one bed may be used to provide additional embodiments using multiple beds, etc.). Accordingly, any combination of any of the subject matter described herein is contemplated.
According to one embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed objects which are vertically movable between a first configuration and a second configuration. The structure may be a land vehicle. The land vehicle may be configured to move along a road. The land vehicle may be a wheeled vehicle. The land vehicle may be a recreational vehicle. The land vehicle may be a road vehicle. The structure may be a watercraft. The structure may be a houseboat. The structure may be a cruise ship. The structure may be a yacht. The structure may be an immobile structure. The structure may be a fixed structure. The structure may be or include residential housing. The structure may comprise living quarters which include the superposed objects. The objects may be beds. The objects may be movable between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration. The least one of the objects may be a futon bed. The objects may be spaced apart in the first configuration. The objects may be positioned to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon in the first configuration. The objects may be positioned adjacent to each other in the second configuration. The objects may be positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the structure in the second configuration. The structure may comprise a main occupancy area and the objects may be spaced apart in the main occupancy area when the objects are in the first configuration and the objects may be positioned adjacent to each other at a periphery of the main occupancy area when the objects are in the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure suitable for habitation by people comprises: a plurality of objects where the objects are positioned one above another and are vertically movable between a use configuration and a stowed configuration. The structure may be a mobile vehicle. The mobile vehicle may be a recreational vehicle. The objects may comprise beds. The objects may be used for sleeping in the use configuration. The objects may be spaced apart in the use configuration. The objects may be stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the structure in the stowed configuration. The objects may be positioned adjacent to each other in the stowed configuration.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; and superposed beds where one of the beds is vertically movable to provide a use configuration where the one bed is positioned in the cargo area and a stowed configuration where the one bed is positioned adjacent to another bed to allow the off-road vehicle to be received in the cargo area. The recreational vehicle may be a toy hauler. The distance from a floor of the cargo area to the beds when the beds are in the stowed configuration may be at least about 5 feet (or about 1.5 meters). The cargo area may be configured to receive at least one of a four wheeler or a snowmobile. At least one of the beds may be moved using a gear which cooperates with a support member coupled to the recreational vehicle. The support member may be vertically coupled to the recreational vehicle. At least one of the beds may be moved using a chain which is coupled to the bed. The chain may be positioned vertically adjacent to a wall of the recreational vehicle. The beds may move vertically between the use configuration where the beds are positioned in the cargo area and the stowed configuration. The beds may be positioned adjacent to each other near a ceiling of the recreational vehicle in the stowed configuration. The beds may be movable between the use configuration, the stowed configuration, and a third configuration where the one bed is positioned in the cargo area and the another bed is in a stowed position. The one bed and the another bed may be positioned in the cargo area in the use configuration, and the beds may be movable between the use configuration and a third configuration where the one bed is positioned in the cargo area and the another bed is in a stowed position. The one bed may move for a portion of a distance between the use configuration and the stowed configuration while the another bed is stationary and the one bed and the another bed may move simultaneously for another portion of the distance between the use configuration and the stowed configuration. The beds may be vertically movable from the use configuration to the stowed configuration by raising the one bed from the use configuration where the one bed and the another bed are spaced apart to an intermediate configuration where the one bed and the another bed are positioned adjacent to each other and raising the one bed and the another bed simultaneously to the stowed configuration. The beds may be vertically movable from the use configuration to the stowed configuration by raising the one bed from the use configuration where the one bed and the another bed are spaced apart to a fourth configuration where the one bed and the another bed are positioned adjacent to each other and raising the one bed and the another bed simultaneously to the stowed configuration. The beds may be movable from the use configuration where the beds are spaced apart to the stowed configuration by moving the one bed to position the one bed and the another bed adjacent to each other and moving the beds together to the stowed configuration. The beds may be movable from the use configuration to the stowed configuration by moving the one bed to a position adjacent to the another bed, the another bed being stationary while the one bed is moved and moving the one bed and the another bed simultaneously to the stowed configuration. The beds may be vertically movable from the stowed configuration to the use configuration by lowering the beds simultaneously to an intermediate configuration where the one bed and the another bed are positioned adjacent to each other and lowering the one bed until the beds are spaced apart in the use configuration. The beds may be movable from the stowed configuration to the use configuration by simultaneously moving the beds to another position and moving the one bed while the another bed remains stationary until the beds are spaced apart in the use configuration. The beds may be movable from the use configuration to the stowed configuration by moving the one bed into engagement with the another bed and then moving the beds simultaneously. The one bed may be movable between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration. The one bed may be movable between a first configuration where the one bed is used for sleeping and a second configuration where the one bed includes a seat back and is used for seating. The one bed may be a futon bed. The one bed may be a day bed. The one bed may be movable between a first configuration where the one bed is at least substantially horizontal and a second configuration where the one bed includes a seat back and a seat base. The one bed may be convertible into a seating unit which includes a seat back. The recreational vehicle may comprise a drive assembly which is used to move the beds between the use configuration and the stowed configuration where the drive assembly may prevent at least one of the plurality of beds from moving downwardly when in the use configuration. The drive assembly may include a brake member which prevents movement of the drive assembly when at least one of the beds is in the use configuration. The brake member may prevent rotational movement of the drive assembly when at least one of the plurality of beds is in the use configuration. Only the drive assembly may be used to prevent at least one of the plurality of beds from moving downwardly when in the use configuration. The recreational vehicle may comprise a ramp which is used to move the off-road vehicle into and/or out of the cargo area. The recreational vehicle may comprise a door which is used as a ramp to move the off-road vehicle into and/or out of the cargo area. The door may be positioned on a rear side of the recreational vehicle. The recreational vehicle may comprise: a first door positioned on a first side of the recreational vehicle; and a second door positioned on a second side of the recreational vehicle where the first side is opposite the second side; wherein the first door and the second door are used as ramps to move the off-road vehicle into and/or out of the cargo area. The recreational vehicle may comprise a motor which is used to move the beds between the use configuration and the stowed configuration.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; and a cargo area used to transport an off-road vehicle; wherein the first bed and the second bed move vertically between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are spaced apart in the cargo area and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the recreation vehicle.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area configured to receive an off-road vehicle; and superposed beds which are vertically movable between a use configuration where the beds are positioned in the cargo area and are configured to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a stowed configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other to allow the off-road vehicle to be received in the cargo area.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned over the first bed; and a first wall, a second wall, a ceiling, and a floor, all of which at least partially define a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; wherein the first bed and the second bed move vertically between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are spaced apart in the cargo area and are configured to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to each other near the ceiling of the recreational vehicle to allow the off-road vehicle to be moved into and/or out of the recreational vehicle.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a ramp which is used to move an off-road vehicle into and/or out of the recreational vehicle; and a plurality of beds, the beds being positioned one above another and being vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart in a space otherwise used to receive the off-road vehicle and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other and positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the recreational vehicle to allow the off-road vehicle to be moved into and/or out of the recreational vehicle. The ramp may also be used as a door for the recreational vehicle The ramp may be stowed beneath a floor of the recreational vehicle. The door may be positioned on a rear side of the recreational vehicle. The recreational vehicle may comprise a second door positioned opposite the first door, the second door also being used as a ramp to move the off-road vehicle into and/or out of the recreational vehicle.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area configured to receive an off-road vehicle; and superposed beds which are movable between one configuration where the beds are spaced apart in the cargo area and another configuration where one of the beds is positioned in the cargo area and another one of the beds is in a stowed position. The beds may be vertically movable between the one configuration and the another configuration.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area configured to receive an off-road vehicle; and superposed beds including a first bed and a second bed which are movable between one configuration where the first bed and the second bed are spaced apart in the cargo area and another configuration where the first bed is positioned in the cargo area and the second bed is stowed.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area configured to receive an off-road vehicle; and a plurality of beds where the beds are superposed and are movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart in the cargo area, a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other near a ceiling of the recreational vehicle to allow the off-road vehicle to be received in the cargo area, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned in the cargo area and another one of the beds is positioned adjacent to the ceiling.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area configured to receive an off-road vehicle; and superposed beds which are movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart in the cargo area, a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other in a stowed position to allow the off-road vehicle to be received in the cargo area, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned in the cargo area and another one of the beds is in the stowed position.
According to another embodiment, a system comprises: a first guide member; a second guide member; a first bed configured to move vertically in cooperation with the first guide member and the second guide member; and a second bed configured to move vertically in cooperation with the first guide member and the second guide member, the second bed being configured to be positioned above the first bed; wherein the first guide member is configured to be coupled to a first wall of a recreational vehicle and the second guide member is configured to be coupled to a second wall of the recreational vehicle, the first wall being positioned opposite the second wall; and wherein the first bed and the second bed are configured to be vertically movable between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned in a cargo area of the recreational vehicle, the cargo area being configured to receive an off-road vehicle, and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to each other near a ceiling of the recreational vehicle to allow the at least one off road vehicle to be received in the cargo area. At least one of the first bed or the second bed may cooperate with the first guide member and the second guide member to allow the at least one bed to move vertically when the distance between the first wall and the second wall varies.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area configured to receive an off-road vehicle; superposed beds; and a motor used to move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart in the cargo area and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other to allow the off-road vehicle to be received in the cargo area. The motor may be an electric motor. The motor may be a direct current motor. The motor may be between about a 0.125 horsepower motor and about a 0.5 horsepower motor. The motor may be between about a 0.2 horsepower motor and about a 0.3 horsepower motor. The motor may be about a 0.25 horsepower motor.
According to another embodiment, a method comprises: moving a lower bed vertically from a first position where the lower bed is spaced apart from an upper bed in a cargo area of a recreational vehicle to an intermediate position where the lower bed is positioned adjacent to the upper bed; and moving the lower bed and the upper bed together to a second position where the lower bed and the upper bed are positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the recreational vehicle.
According to another embodiment, a method comprises: vertically moving superposed beds from a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart in a cargo area of a recreational vehicle to a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other and positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the recreational vehicle; and moving an off-road vehicle into the cargo area of the recreational vehicle. The method may comprise moving the off-road vehicle out of the cargo area of the recreational vehicle; and vertically moving the superposed beds from the second configuration to the first configuration.
According to another embodiment, a method comprises: coupling a first guide member to a first wall of a recreational vehicle, the first wall, a second wall, a ceiling, and a floor cooperating to define at least a portion of a cargo area which is configured to receive an off-road vehicle; coupling a second guide member to the second wall, the second wall being positioned opposite the first wall; positioning a first bed to move vertically in cooperation with the first guide member and the second guide member; and positioning a second bed to move vertically in cooperation with the first guide member and the second guide member, the second bed being positioned above the first bed; wherein the first bed and the second bed are vertically movable between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned in the cargo area and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to each other near the ceiling. The method may comprise drivably coupling the first guide member to the second guide member to move at least one of the first bed or the second bed vertically at the first guide member and the second guide member.
According to another embodiment, a method comprises: coupling a first guide member to a recreational vehicle; coupling a second guide member to the recreational vehicle; positioning a first bed to move vertically in cooperation with the first guide member and the second guide member; and positioning a second bed to move vertically in cooperation with the first guide member and the second guide member, the second bed being positioned above the first bed; wherein the first bed and the second bed are vertically movable between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned in a cargo area of the recreational vehicle which is used to receive an off-road vehicle and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are stowed. The method may comprise drivably coupling the first guide member to the second guide member to move at least one of the first bed or the second bed vertically at the first guide member and the second guide member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a plurality of objects, the objects being positioned one above another and being vertically movable between a first configuration where the objects are spaced apart and a second configuration where the objects are positioned adjacent to each other; a support member; and a rotatable member; wherein the rotatable member and/or the support member includes a plurality of projections; and wherein the projections on one of the rotatable member or the support member cooperate with the other one of the rotatable member or the support member to move the objects between the first configuration and the second configuration. The support member may include a chain which cooperates with the plurality of projections on the rotatable member to move the objects between the first configuration and the second configuration. The rotatable member may be a sprocket. The objects may be beds. The rotatable member and the support member may each include a plurality of projections, and wherein the projections on the rotatable member cooperate with the projections on the support member to move the objects between the first configuration and the second configuration. The rotatable member may include the plurality of projections which cooperate with a plurality of holes in the support member to move the objects between the first configuration and the second configuration. The objects may be raised in the second configuration. The rotatable member may be a gear. The structure may be a recreational vehicle. The support member may be a rail. The structure may comprise another support member positioned opposite the support member; and another rotatable member; wherein the another rotatable member and/or the another support member includes a plurality of projections, and wherein the projections on one of the another rotatable member or the another support member cooperate with the other one of the another rotatable member or the another support member to move the objects between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure suitable to be habitable by people may comprise: superposed beds which move between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are raised and positioned adjacent to each other; a support member coupled to the structure; and a rotatable wheel; wherein the rotatable wheel and/or the support member includes a plurality of projections; the plurality of projections on one of the rotatable wheel or the support member cooperates with the other one of the rotatable wheel or the support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a system comprises: superposed beds which are configured to move between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other in a raised position; a support member configured to be coupled to a wall, a floor, and/or a ceiling of an occupancy area which is used to shelter people overnight; and a rotatable member; wherein the rotatable member and/or the support member includes a plurality of projections, and wherein the projections on one of the rotatable member or the support member cooperate with the other one of the rotatable member or the support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment a kit comprises: a support member which is configured to be coupled to a structure; and a rotatable member; wherein the rotatable member and/or the support member includes a plurality of projections, and wherein the projections on one of the rotatable member or the support member are configured to cooperate with the other one of the rotatable member or the support member to vertically move superposed objects between a first configuration where the objects are spaced apart and a second configuration where the objects are positioned adjacent to each other. The support member may be configured to be vertically coupled to the structure. The kit may comprise a motor which is configured to drive the rotatable member. The motor may be a direct current motor. The objects may be beds. The kit may comprise a plurality of support members configured to be coupled to opposite sides of the structure with the objects being positioned between the support members; and a plurality of rotatable members wherein each rotatable member is configured to cooperate with a corresponding support member to move the objects between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a group of materials may be provided which when assembled form an apparatus for vertically moving superposed beds in a structure, the group of materials may comprise: a support member which is configured to be coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which is configured to cooperate with the support member to vertically move the superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The group of materials may comprise at least four support members; and at least four toothed wheels; wherein each toothed wheel is configured to cooperate with a corresponding support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a land vehicle comprises: superposed beds which move vertically between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; a support member coupled to the land vehicle; and a rotatable wheel; wherein the rotatable wheel and/or the support member includes a plurality of projections, and wherein the projections on one of the rotatable wheel or the support member cooperate with the projections included with the other one of the rotatable wheel or the support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a plurality of beds, the beds being positioned one above another; a support member; and a gear which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds is used to vertically move another one of the beds. The structure may comprise a plurality of support members; and a plurality of gears; wherein each gear cooperates with a corresponding support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may comprise a drive assembly which is used to rotate the gears in unison. The drive assembly may include a rigid drive member which is used to rotate the gears in unison. The structure may comprise at least four support members; and at least four gears each of which cooperates with a corresponding support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. One of the support members is positioned opposite another one of the support members. The structure may comprise a moving member which is coupled to the gear, the moving member being configured to enclose the gear. The structure may comprise a moving assembly which includes the gear, the moving assembly cooperating with the support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may comprise a motor which is used to rotate the gear. The beds may be raised in the second configuration. The gear may cooperate with a plurality of holes in the support member to vertically move the beds. The support member includes a rack which cooperates with the gear to vertically move the beds. The gear may cooperate with a plurality of holes in the rack to vertically move the beds. The gear may cooperate with a plurality of teeth in the rack to vertically move the beds. The rack may be a gear rack. The gear may cooperate with a plurality of teeth in the support member to vertically move the beds. The structure may be a recreational vehicle. The support member may be a rail.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed; a support member; and a gear which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the first bed and the second bed between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the first bed is configured to move while the second bed is stationary for a portion of a distance between the first configuration and the second configuration and the first bed and the second bed are configured to move simultaneously for another portion of the distance between the first configuration and the second configuration. The first bed and the second bed may be positioned adjacent to each other as the first bed and the second bed move simultaneously. The first bed and the second bed may be raised in the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; and a gear which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds moves from the first configuration to an intermediate configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, the beds then move from the intermediate configuration to the second configuration. The beds may be positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the structure in the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; and a gear which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a lowered configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a raised configuration where the beds are adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds is used to move another bed between the lowered configuration and the raised configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a lower bed assembly; an upper bed assembly; a support member; and a gear which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the lower bed assembly and the upper bed assembly between a first configuration where the lower bed assembly and the upper bed assembly are spaced apart and a second configuration where the lower bed assembly and the upper bed assembly are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the lower bed assembly engages the upper bed assembly to move the upper bed assembly between the first configuration and the second configuration. The lower bed assembly may include a lower bed which engages the upper bed assembly to move the upper bed assembly between the first configuration and the second configuration. The upper bed assembly may include a moving member which cooperates with the support member, and wherein the lower bed assembly engages the moving member to move the upper bed assembly between the first configuration and the second configuration. The lower bed assembly may include a lower moving member which cooperates with the support member to move the lower bed assembly between the first configuration and the second configuration, and wherein the lower moving member engages the upper bed assembly to move the upper bed assembly between the first configuration and the second configuration. The lower bed assembly may include a lower bed frame which engages the upper bed assembly to move the upper bed assembly between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a system comprises: a support member configured to be coupled to a wall of a structure suitable to be habitable by people; and a gear configured to cooperate with the support member to vertically move superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, one of the beds being configured to be used to move another one of the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The system may comprise a moving member configured to cooperate with the support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The system may comprise a plurality of support members configured to be coupled to the wall of the structure; and a plurality of gears each of which cooperates with a corresponding support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The support members may be coupled to opposite walls of a recreational vehicle. The support member may include a plurality of holes which cooperate with the gear to move the beds.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a first support member coupled to the structure; a second support member coupled to the structure; and a first gear and a second gear which cooperate with the first support member and the second support member, respectively, to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds is used to vertically move another one of the beds.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a first pair of support members coupled to the structure; a second pair of support members coupled to the structure; and a plurality of gears each of which cooperates with a corresponding support member from the first pair support members and the second pair of support members to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds is used to vertically move another one of the beds.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; and a rotatable wheel which cooperates with a plurality of holes in the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The rotatable wheel includes a plurality of projections which cooperate with the plurality of holes. The rotatable wheel may be a sprocket. The rotatable wheel may be a gear. The rotatable wheel may be a cogwheel. The support member may include a slotted rail which cooperates with the rotatable wheel.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a plurality of beds, the beds being positioned one above another; a support assembly including a plurality of openings; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the plurality of openings to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The support assembly may include a slotted rail, and wherein the gear may cooperate with the slotted rail to move the beds.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a plurality of beds, the beds being positioned one above another; a support assembly including a plurality of recesses; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the plurality of recesses to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a support member including a plurality of apertures; and a gear which cooperates with the plurality of apertures to vertically move the beds between a use configuration where the beds are configured to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a stowed configuration. The support member may be vertically coupled to the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a plurality of support members coupled to the structure, each of the plurality of support members including a plurality of openings; and a plurality of gears each of which cooperates with the plurality of openings in a corresponding support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are stowed. One of the plurality of support members may be coupled to one wall of the structure and another one of the plurality of support members may be coupled to another wall of the structure which is positioned opposite the one wall. The structure may comprise at least two pairs of support members, one pair of the support members being coupled adjacent to one side of the structure and another pair of the support members being coupled adjacent to another side of the structure; and at least four gears each of which cooperates with the plurality of openings in a corresponding support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The one side of the structure may be opposite the another side of the structure.
According to another embodiment, a kit comprises: a support member including a plurality of openings, the support member being configured to be coupled to a structure; and a rotatable member including a plurality of projections which are configured to cooperate with the plurality of openings in the support member to vertically move superposed objects between a first configuration where the objects are spaced apart and a second configuration where the objects are positioned adjacent to each other. The support member may be configured to be vertically coupled to the structure. The kit may comprise a motor which is used to drive the rotatable member. The motor may be a direct current motor. The objects may be beds. The kit may comprise a plurality of support members configured to be coupled to opposite sides of the structure with the objects being positioned between the support members; and a plurality of rotatable members wherein each rotatable member is configured to cooperate with the plurality of openings in a corresponding support member to move the objects between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a group of materials may be provided which when assembled form an apparatus for vertically moving superposed beds in a structure, the group of materials may comprise: a support member including a plurality of openings, the support member being configured to be coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which is configured to cooperate with the plurality of openings in the support member to vertically move the superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The group of materials may comprise at least four support members; and at least four toothed wheels; wherein each toothed wheel is configured to cooperate with the plurality of openings in a corresponding support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a first pair of support members each of which includes a plurality of openings, the first pair of support members being coupled to the structure; a second pair of support members each of which includes a plurality of openings, the second pair of support members being coupled to the structure; and a plurality of gears each of which cooperates with the plurality of openings in a corresponding support member from the first pair support members and the second pair of support members to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; and a rotatable wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a lowered configuration where the beds are used for sleeping and a raised configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; and a rotatable wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are raised and stowed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member including an engaging portion; and a rotatable wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are raised relative to the first configuration and are positioned adjacent to each other. The rotatable wheel may include a plurality of projections which cooperate with the support member. The rotatable wheel may be a sprocket. The rotatable wheel may be a gear. The rotatable wheel may be a cogwheel. The support member may be a slotted rail.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a plurality of beds, the beds being positioned one above another; a support member which includes an engaging portion; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other near a ceiling of the structure. The toothed wheel may cooperate with a plurality of openings in the engaging portion to move the beds.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a support member including a rack portion; and a rotatable member which cooperates with the rack portion to vertically move the beds between a use configuration where the beds are configured to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a stowed configuration where the beds are raised relative to the use configuration. The support member may be vertically coupled to the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member including a meshing portion; and a rotatable wheel which cooperates with the meshing portion of the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are raised relative to the first configuration and are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; and a rotatable wheel which interlocks with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other near a ceiling of the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member including an engaging portion; and a rotatable wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are stowed in a raised position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a plurality of support members coupled to the structure; a plurality of gears each of which cooperates with a corresponding support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are stowed in a raised position. One of the plurality of support members may be coupled to one wall of the structure and another one of the plurality of support members may be coupled to another wall of the structure which is positioned opposite the one wall. The structure may comprise at least two pairs of support members, one pair of the support members being coupled adjacent to one side of the structure and another pair of the support members being coupled adjacent to another side of the structure and at least four gears each of which cooperates with a corresponding support member from the two pairs of support members to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The one side of the structure may be opposite the other side of the structure.
According to another embodiment, a kit comprises: a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being configured to be coupled to a structure; and a rotatable member configured to cooperate with the engaging portion to vertically move superposed objects between a first configuration where the objects are spaced apart and a second configuration where the objects are positioned adjacent to each other near a ceiling of the structure. The support member may be configured to be vertically coupled to the structure. The kit may comprise a motor which is configured to drive the rotatable member. The motor may be a direct current motor. The motor may be an alternating current motor. The objects may be beds. The kit may comprise a plurality of support members configured to be coupled to opposite sides of the structure with the objects being positioned between the support members; and a plurality of rotatable members wherein each rotatable member is configured to cooperate with the engaging portion of a corresponding support member to move the objects between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a group of materials may be provided which when assembled form an apparatus for vertically moving superposed beds in a structure, the group of materials may comprise: a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being configured to be coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which is configured to cooperate with the engaging portion to vertically move the superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are raised relative to the first configuration and are positioned adjacent to each other. The group of materials may comprise at least four support members; and at least four toothed wheels; wherein each toothed wheel may be configured to cooperate with the engaging portion of a corresponding support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member coupled to a wall which is fixed relative to a floor of the structure; and a rotatable wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are positioned to be used for sleeping thereon, a second configuration where the beds are stowed, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned to be used for sleeping thereon and another one of the beds is stowed. The one bed may be positioned below the another bed when the beds are in the third configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; and a rotatable wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between one configuration where the beds are spaced apart and another configuration where one of the beds is stowed and another one of the beds is configured to receive a person to sleep thereon. The one bed may be stowed in a raised position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a plurality of beds, the beds being positioned one above another; a support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart, a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other in a stowed position, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned to receive a person to sleep thereon and another one of the beds is in the stowed position. The one of the beds may be positioned below the another one of the beds when the beds are in the third configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a support member; and a rotatable member which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a use configuration where the beds are configured to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon, a stowed configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, and another configuration where one of the beds is positioned to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and another one of the beds is in a stowed position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between one configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other and another configuration where one of the beds is positioned to receive a person to sleep thereon and another one of the beds is in a stowed position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; and a rotatable member which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between one configuration where the beds are spaced apart and another configuration where one of the beds is stowed in a raised position and another one of the beds is lowered to receive a person to sleep thereon.
According to another embodiment, a kit comprises: a support member configured to be coupled to the interior of a structure; and a rotatable member configured to cooperate with the engaging portion to vertically move superposed objects between a first configuration where the objects are spaced apart, a second configuration where the objects are positioned adjacent to each other near a ceiling of the structure, and a third configuration where one of the objects is configured to be used and another one of the objects is positioned adjacent to the ceiling. The support member may be configured to be vertically coupled to the structure. The objects may be beds. The kit may comprise a plurality of support members configured to be coupled to opposite walls of the structure with the objects being positioned between the support members; and a plurality of rotatable members wherein each rotatable member is configured to cooperate with a corresponding support member to move the objects between the first configuration, the second configuration, and the third configuration.
According to another embodiment, a group of materials may be provided which when assembled form an apparatus for vertically moving superposed beds in a structure, the group of materials may comprise: a support member configured to be coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which is configured to cooperate with the support member to vertically move the beds between one configuration where the beds are spaced apart and another configuration where one of the beds is positioned to be used for sleeping thereon and another one of the beds is positioned in a stowed position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds each of which include a first side and a second side, the first sides being positioned opposite the second sides; a support member coupled to a first wall of the structure and the first sides of the beds; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the second sides of the beds are spaced apart from a second wall of the structure to at least allow a person to pass there between, the second wall being positioned opposite the first wall. The structure may comprise another support member coupled to the first wall and to the first sides of the beds and another toothed wheel which cooperates with the another support member to vertically move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The second sides of the beds may be positioned adjacent to an aisle. At least one of the second sides of the beds may be supported when in the first configuration by at least one of the first wall or a floor of the structure. At least one of the second sides of the beds may be supported when in the first configuration by at least one of the first wall or a ceiling of the structure. At least one of the second sides of the beds may be supported when in the first configuration by a folding leg coupled to an underside of a corresponding bed. At least one of the second sides of the beds may be supported when in the first configuration by a support element coupled to at least one of the first wall or a ceiling of the structure. The support element may be coupled to the support member. The support element may be a cable. At least one of the beds may be movable between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds each of which include a first side and a second side, the first sides being positioned opposite the second sides; a support member coupled to a first wall of the structure and the first sides of the beds; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the second sides are used to receive a person on the beds.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first wall; a second wall positioned opposite the first wall; superposed beds supported by only one of the first wall or the second wall; a support member coupled to the only one wall; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds supported by only a first wall and/or a ceiling; a support member coupled to the first wall; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds each of which include a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side; a support member coupled to the first wall, the support member being used to support the first side of each bed; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the second side, the third side, and the fourth side are not coupled to a wall other than the first wall.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; one or more support members coupled to a first wall; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the support members coupled to the first wall are the only support members used to support the bed which are coupled to a wall of the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a support member which cooperates with only one toothed wheel to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The structure may comprise a plurality of support members each of which cooperates with only one toothed wheel to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and only one motor which is used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; a moving member which moves in cooperation with the support member; and a toothed wheel which is used to vertically move the moving member, the toothed wheel also being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the moving member moves on the outside of the support member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; a moving member which moves in cooperation with the support member; and a toothed wheel which is used to vertically move the moving member, the toothed wheel also being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the moving member moves over an outside surface of the support member. The moving member may be coupled to at least one of the beds.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a support member; a moving member which defines a channel, the moving member moving in cooperation with the support member; and a toothed wheel which is used to vertically move the moving member, the toothed wheel also being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the support member is positioned in the interior of the channel.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a lifting assembly which includes a support member; a moving member which moves in cooperation with the support member; and a toothed wheel which is used to move the moving member in cooperation with the support member, the toothed wheel also being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the moving member moves over an outside surface of the support member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the first bed and the second bed between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are spaced apart and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the second bed is not supported in the first configuration by the toothed wheel. The second bed may be supported in the second configuration by the toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the first bed and the second bed between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are spaced apart and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the second bed is supported in the first configuration using brackets coupled to the structure, the brackets being separate from the support member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the first bed and the second bed between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are spaced apart and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the second bed is supported in the first configuration using a bracket coupled to the structure, the bracket being separate from the support member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a first wall; a second wall positioned opposite the first wall; a first support member coupled to the first wall; a second support member coupled to the second wall; a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the first bed and the second bed between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are spaced apart and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to each other; and a plurality of brackets including a bracket coupled to the first wall and a bracket coupled to the second wall.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a lifting assembly including a support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the first bed and the second bed between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are spaced apart and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the second bed is not supported in the first configuration by a toothed wheel. The second bed may be supported in the first configuration using a bracket coupled to the structure, the bracket being separate from the lifting assembly.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a support member; a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the first bed and the second bed between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are spaced apart and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to each other; and a stop which is used to support the second bed in the first configuration, the stop being adjustable to adjust the position of the second bed in the first configuration. The stop may be separate from the support member. The stop may be slidably adjustable to adjust the position of the second bed in the first configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a support member; a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the first bed and the second bed between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are spaced apart and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to each other; and a bracket which is used to support the second bed in the first configuration, the bracket being adjustable to adjust the position of the second bed in the first configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a lifting assembly including a support member; a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the first bed and the second bed between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are spaced apart and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to each other; and a stop which is used to support the second bed in the first configuration, the stop being adjustable to adjust the position of the second bed in the first configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a lifting assembly including a support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein at least one of the beds is configured to be coupled to and decoupled from the lifting assembly. The at least one bed may be configured to be relatively easily coupled to and decoupled from the lifting assembly. The at least one bed may be coupled to and decoupled from the lifting assembly using a pin and hole arrangement. The at least one bed may include the pin.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a lifting assembly including a support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein at least one of the beds is configured to be selectively removable from lifting assembly.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds each of the beds including a frame; a support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the toothed wheel is not rotatably attached to the bed frames.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds each of the beds including a frame; a support member; a moving member which cooperates with the support member, the moving member being physically distinct from the bed frames; and a toothed wheel rotatably coupled to the moving member, the toothed wheel cooperating with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds each of the beds including a frame; a support member; and a toothed wheel enclosed in a housing, the toothed wheel cooperating with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the housing is separate from the bed frames.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds each of which includes a bed frame; and a lifting assembly including a toothed wheel; and a support member, the toothed wheel cooperating with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the bed frames are separate components from the lifting assembly.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a support member; a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, and a motor assembly including a brake; wherein the brake is used to prevent the first bed from moving vertically in at least one of the first configuration and the second configuration. The brake may be coupled to a side of the motor which is opposite the drive shaft of the motor. The brake may include a manual activation device which is used to switch the brake between an activated state where the brake prevents vertical movement of the first bed and an inactivated state where the brake does not impede vertical movement of the first bed. The brake may be used to prevent the first bed from moving vertically in both the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a support member; a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a motor assembly including a brake which is used to prevent the first bed from moving vertically in at least one of the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed; a lifting assembly including a toothed wheel and a vertical engaging portion which cooperates with the toothed wheel to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a motor assembly which is used to drive the toothed wheel, the motor assembly including a brake which is used to prevent the first bed from moving vertically in at least one of the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a chain which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a chain which is used to vertically move at least one of the beds to provide a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The beds may be positioned to be used for sleeping in the first configuration and the beds are positioned to be stowed in the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises; superposed beds; and a chain coupled to at least one of the beds, a longitudinal direction of the chain extending vertically, the chain being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a chain coupled to the structure and to at least one of the beds, the chain being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The chain may cooperate with a toothed wheel which is coupled to the structure. The toothed wheel may be a sprocket. The toothed wheel may rotate on an axis which is stationary relative to the structure. The chain may mesh with the toothed wheel. The chain may engage the toothed wheel. The chain may cooperate with a toothed wheel which is vertically stationary relative to the structure. The chain may be in a fixed position relative to the structure. A toothed wheel may cooperate with the chain to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The toothed wheel may move vertically relative to the structure as at least one of the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration. The toothed wheel may move vertically simultaneously with the beds as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration. The toothed wheel may move vertically at the same rate as the beds when the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration. The chain may be coupled to the bed using a toothed wheel. The toothed wheel may move vertically relative to the structure as the toothed wheel rotates. The toothed wheel may be part of a moving assembly which cooperates with a guide assembly coupled to the structure to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a chain coupled to the structure and to at least one of the beds, the chain being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the chain moves vertically relative to the structure as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may comprise a toothed wheel coupled to the structure, the chain may cooperate with the toothed wheel to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may comprise a motor which is used to move the toothed wheel to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a chain coupled to the structure and to at least one of the beds, the chain being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the chain is stationary relative to the structure. The structure may comprise a toothed wheel which cooperates with the chain, the toothed wheel being vertically movable relative to the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a chain having a longitudinal direction which extends at least substantially vertically relative to the structure, the chain being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The chain may be at least part of an endless loop.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a chain extending lengthwise in an at least substantially vertical direction, the chain being coupled to the structure and being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. One of the beds may be used to move another one of the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a guide assembly coupled to the structure; and a chain coupled to the guide assembly, the chain being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The guide assembly may define a channel, the chain being positioned in the channel. The chain may be positioned to the exterior of the guide assembly. The guide assembly may include a sprocket which cooperates with the chain. The chain may be a roller chain. The chain may include a plurality of links. The beds may cooperate with the guide assemblies as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a guide assembly coupled to the structure, the guide assembly including a chain which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a chain which moves along a vertical path, the chain being used to vertically move the beds along the path between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The vertical path may be a loop.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a lifting assembly coupled to the structure, the lifting assembly including a chain positioned vertically which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and an endless drive member which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The endless drive member may be a chain. The endless drive member may be a toothed belt. The endless drive member may be a cable. The endless drive member may be a strap. The strap may include a plurality of holes which mesh with a rotatable member coupled to the structure. The endless drive member may include a chain and a cable. A chain and a cable are included as part of the endless drive member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and an endless drive loop, the beds being coupled to the endless drive loop which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The endless drive loop may be positioned lengthwise in a vertical position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and an endless drive loop, the beds being coupled to the endless drive loop which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a drive member which moves along an endless path, the drive member being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The drive member may be a flexible drive member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a flexible drive member which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, the flexible drive member also being used to prevent vertical movement of at least one of the beds when the drive member is not being used to move the beds. The flexible drive member may be used to prevent upward and downward vertical movement of the at least one of the beds.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a lifting assembly coupled to the structure, the lifting assembly including a drive member which moves along an endless path, the drive member being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds positioned between opposing walls of the structure, the beds being vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the distance between the walls varies as the beds are moved between the first configuration and the second configuration; and wherein at least one of the beds is coupled to the opposing walls in a manner to account for the distance variations between the walls. The structure may be a mobile. The distance between the walls may vary at least about 0.125 inches (or about 3.2 millimeters). The distance between the walls may vary at least about 0.25 inches (or about 6.4 millimeters). The distance between the walls may vary at least about 0.385 inches (or about 9.8 millimeters). The distance between the walls may vary at least about 0.5 inches (or about 12.7 millimeters). The distance between the walls may vary at least about 0.75 inches (or about 19.1 millimeters). The distance between the walls may vary between about 0.125 inches to about 2 inches (or about 3.2 millimeters to about 5 centimeters). The distance between the walls may vary between about 0.385 inches to about 1.25 inches (or about 9.8 millimeters to about 3.2 centimeters). At least one of the beds may be coupled to at least one of the opposing walls using a hole which receives a pin. The structure may comprise a drive assembly which extends between the opposing walls, the drive assembly being configured to account for the distance variations between the walls. The drive assembly may telescope to account for the distance variations between the walls.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds positioned between opposing walls of the structure, the beds being vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein at least one of the beds is coupled to the opposing walls in a manner to account for the distance variations between the walls.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: opposing walls where the distance between the walls varies in a vertical plane and superposed beds positioned between the opposing walls, the beds being vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein at least one of the beds is coupled to the opposing walls in a manner to compensate for the distance variations between the walls.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds positioned between opposing walls of the structure, the beds being vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a guide member coupled to each of the opposing walls, the guide members cooperating with at least one of the beds as the bed moves between the first configuration and the second configuration; wherein the combination of the guide members and the at least one bed is configured to account for variations in the width of the walls as the bed moves between the first configuration and the second configuration. The at least one bed may be movable in a direction that is perpendicular to the walls to account for variations in the width of the walls. The combination of the guide members and the at least one bed may include play in a horizontal direction to account for variations in the width of the walls. The combination of the guide members and the at least one bed may include play in a direction perpendicular to the walls to account for variations in the width of the walls. The at least one bed may be movable longitudinally to account for variations in the width of the walls.
According to another embodiment, a system comprises: superposed beds positioned between opposing walls of a structure, the beds being vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a guide assembly coupled to each of the opposing walls, the guide assemblies cooperating with at least one bed as the bed moves between the first configuration and the second configuration; wherein play is provided between the guide assemblies and the at least one bed to compensate for variations in the width of the walls as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration. The play may be provided where the at least one bed is coupled to the guide assembly. The system may comprise a moving assembly which cooperates with each guide assembly to move the at least one bed between the first configuration and the second configuration, the play being provided between the at least one bed and the moving assemblies. The system may comprise a moving assembly which cooperates with each guide assembly to move the at least one bed between the first configuration and the second configuration, the play being provided between the moving assemblies and the guide assemblies.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds positioned between opposing walls of the structure; a drive mechanism coupled to each of the opposing walls, the drive mechanisms being used to move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a drive member extending between the drive mechanisms, the drive member being used to synchronize the movement of the drive mechanisms; wherein the combination of the drive mechanisms and the drive member is configured to account for variations in the width of the walls as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration. Play may be provided between at least one drive mechanism and the drive member to account for variations in the width of the walls as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration. The drive member may account for variations in the width of the walls by being movable telescopically.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds positioned between opposing walls of the structure; a drive mechanism coupled to each of the opposing walls, the drive mechanisms being used to move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a drive member extending between the drive mechanisms, the drive member being used to synchronize the movement of the drive mechanisms; wherein the combination of the drive mechanisms and the drive member is configured to compensate for variations in the width of the walls as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration. The drive member may be a rigid drive member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds positioned between opposing walls of the structure; a drive mechanism coupled to each of the opposing walls, the drive mechanisms being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a drive member extending between the drive mechanisms, the drive member being used to synchronize the movement of the drive mechanisms; wherein the drive member is configured to move longitudinally relative to at least one drive mechanism to compensate for variations in the width of the walls as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration. The drive member may move longitudinally relative to the at least one drive mechanism by telescoping relative to the at least one drive mechanism.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds positioned between opposing walls of the structure the beds being vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other and a drive member extending perpendicular to the opposing walls, the drive member being used to move opposite sides of at least one of the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration; wherein the drive member is configured to compensate for variations in the width of the walls as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a system comprises: superposed beds; a first lifting assembly coupled to one wall of the structure; and a second lifting assembly coupled to another wall of the structure, the first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the combination of the first lifting assembly, the second lifting assembly, and at least one of the beds includes play to compensate for variations in the width of the walls as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a system comprises: superposed beds; and a plurality of lifting assemblies each of which is coupled to opposing walls of the structure, the lifting assemblies being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the combination of the lifting assemblies and at least one of the beds includes play to compensate for variations in the width of the walls as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a system comprises: superposed beds; a first lifting assembly coupled to one wall of the structure; and a second lifting assembly coupled to another wall of the structure, the first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the combination of the first lifting assembly, the second lifting assembly, and at least one of the beds is configured to compensate for variations in the width of the walls as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; a guide member which cooperates with at least one of the superposed beds as the at least one bed moves between the first configuration and the second configuration; and a moving member coupled to the at least one bed, the moving member cooperating with a channel in the guide member to move the at least one bed between the first configuration and the second configuration. The moving member and the at least one bed may be separate components. The moving member may include a channel. The channel in the moving member may receive a flexible drive member which is used to move the at least one bed between the first configuration and the second configuration. The channel may receive a drive member which is used to move the at least one bed between the first configuration and the second configuration. The guide members may be coupled to a wall of the structure without being recessed in the wall.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a lifting assembly which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, the lifting assembly including a moving member coupled to one of the beds, the moving member cooperating with a channel in the lifting assembly to move the one bed between the first configuration and the second configuration. The lifting assembly may include a guide member, the guide member defining the channel.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are movable between one configuration where the beds are spaced apart and another configuration where one of the beds are positioned in the cargo area and another one of the beds is in a stowed position. The beds may be vertically movable between the one configuration and the another configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart to be used for sleeping thereon, a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other near a ceiling of the structure, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned to be used for sleeping thereon and another one of the beds is positioned adjacent to the ceiling.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart to be used for sleeping thereon, a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other in a stowed position, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned to be used for sleeping thereon and another one of the beds is in the stowed position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are positioned to be used for sleeping thereon, a second configuration where the beds are stowed, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned to be used for sleeping thereon and another one of the beds is stowed. The one bed may be positioned below the another bed when the beds are in the third configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between one configuration where the beds are used for sleeping thereon and another configuration where one of the beds is stowed and another one of the beds is configured to receive a person to sleep thereon. The one bed may be stowed in a raised position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a plurality of beds, the beds being positioned one above another, the beds being vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart, a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other in a stowed position, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned to receive a person to sleep thereon and another one of the beds is in the stowed position. The one bed may be positioned below the another bed when the beds are in the third configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first bed; a second bed positioned above the first bed, the first bed and the second bed being vertically movable between a use configuration where the first bed and the second bed are configured to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon, a stowed configuration where the first bed and the second bed are positioned adjacent to each other, and another configuration where one of the first bed or the second bed is positioned to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and the other one of the first bed or the second bed is in a stowed position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between one configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other and another configuration where one of the beds is positioned to receive a person to sleep thereon and another one of the beds is in a stowed position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between one configuration where the beds are spaced apart and another configuration where one of the beds is stowed in a raised position and another one of the beds is lowered to receive a person to sleep thereon.
According to another embodiment, a kit comprises: a support member configured to be coupled to the interior of a structure, the support member being configured to cooperate with superposed beds as the beds move vertically between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart to be used for sleeping thereon, a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other near a ceiling of the structure, and a third configuration where one of the beds is configured to be used and another one of the beds is positioned adjacent to the ceiling. The support member may be configured to be vertically coupled to the structure. The kit may comprise a plurality of support members configured to be coupled to opposite walls of the structure with the beds being positioned between the support members.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are movable between a first configuration where the beds are used for sleeping thereon, a second configuration where the beds are stowed, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned to be used for sleeping thereon and another one of the beds is stowed. The one bed may be used to move the another bed between the first configuration and the second configuration. The one bed may contact the another bed to move the another bed between the first configuration and the second configuration. The one bed may contact the underside of the another bed to move the another bed between the first configuration and the second configuration. The one bed may be part of a movable bed assembly, the bed assembly being used to move the another bed between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may be a recreational vehicle. The beds may be coupled to a wall of the structure. The beds may be coupled between opposing walls of the structure. The structure may comprise a support member; and a rotatable wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may comprise a chain which is positioned at least substantially vertically in the structure, the chain being used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may comprise a drive member which moves along an endless path, the drive member being used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The beds may move between any two or more of the first configuration, the second configuration, or the third configuration without the use of counterweights. The structure may comprise only one drive assembly which is used to move the beds between any two or more of the first configuration, the second configuration, or the third configuration. The structure may comprise a motor which is used to move the beds between any two or more of the first configuration, the second configuration, or the third configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds and a lifting assembly which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart to be used for sleeping thereon, a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other in a stowed position, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned to be used for sleeping thereon and another one of the beds is in the stowed position. The structure may comprise another lifting assembly, the lifting assemblies being positioned on opposite sides of the bed and being used to move the beds between the first configuration, the second configuration, and the third configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, a chain positioned at least substantially vertically in the structure, and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the chain to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The toothed wheel may move vertically with the beds as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration. The toothed wheel may be a sprocket. The structure may comprise at least two toothed wheels which cooperate with the chain to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may comprise at least three toothed wheels which cooperate with the chain to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may comprise a motor which is used to drive the toothed wheel. The motor may move vertically with the beds as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may comprise a guide member; and a moving member which cooperate to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration, the toothed wheel being coupled to the moving member; and wherein at least a portion of the moving member moves inside a channel of the guide member. The chain may not move along an endless path. The chain may not be endless.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; a chain coupled to a wall of the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the chain to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The chain may be fixed. The chain may be immobile relative to the structure. The sprocket may move vertically relative to the chain as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; a chain coupled vertically between a ceiling a and a wall of the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the chain to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; a chain coupled vertically between a ceiling a and a wall of the structure; and a drive assembly including a toothed wheel which cooperates with the chain to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration, the drive assembly moving vertically as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a lifting assembly coupled to the structure, the lifting assembly being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, the lifting assembly including a chain positioned at least substantially vertically in the structure and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the chain to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may comprise another lifting assembly, the lifting assemblies being coupled to opposing walls of the structure, the lifting assemblies being used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a guide member coupled to the structure; superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a moving member coupled to each of the beds, the moving members cooperating with the guide member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration; wherein one of the moving members coupled to one of the beds is configured to engage a stop and another moving member coupled to another one of the beds is configured to not engage the stop and thus provide the first configuration where the beds are spaced apart. One of the beds may be an upper bed and one of the beds may be a lower bed, the upper bed being coupled to the one moving member which engages the stop. The lower bed may be coupled to the another moving member which does not engage the stop.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a guide member coupled to the structure; superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a moving member coupled to each of the beds, the moving members cooperating with the guide member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration, wherein one of the moving members is configured to engage a stop and another moving member is configured to pass by the stop so that the beds are spaced apart in the first configuration. The moving members may move inside a channel in the guide member. The moving members may move inside the guide member. The structure may comprise another guide member, the guide members being coupled to opposing walls and another moving member coupled to each of the beds, the another moving members cooperating with the another guide member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a lifting assembly coupled to the structure, the lifting assembly being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, the lifting assembly comprising a moving member coupled to each of the beds; and a stop; wherein one of the moving members is configured to engage the stop and another one of the moving members is configured to pass by the stop.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, wherein one of the beds is a futon bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds is convertible between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration. The beds may be coupled between opposing walls. The structure may be a land vehicle. The one bed may include a seat back when the one bed is in the seating configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds moves between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration by pivoting on a longitudinal axis. The position of the axis may move in a plane which is perpendicular to the axis as the one bed moves between the sleeping configuration and the seating configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds includes a first portion and a second portion, at least one of the first portion or the second portion being movable relative to the other of the first portion or the second portion to move the one bed between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration. The first portion may provide a seat base and the second portion provides a seat back when the one bed is in the seating configuration. Another one of the beds may be positioned in a stowed position when the one bed is in the seating configuration. The another bed may be positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle in the stowed position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a lifting assembly coupled to the structure, the lifting assembly being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds moves between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration by pivoting on a longitudinal axis. The structure may comprise another lifting assembly, the lifting assemblies being used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein at least one of the beds may be selectively coupled and decoupled to the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein at least one of the beds is selectively removable from the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a guide assembly coupled to the structure; and superposed beds which cooperate with the guide assembly to move vertically between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein at least one of the beds may be selectively coupled and decoupled to the guide assembly.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a plurality of lifting assemblies coupled to the structure, the lifting assemblies cooperating with the beds to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein at least one of the beds may be selectively coupled and decoupled to the lifting assemblies.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the height of one side of one of the beds may be adjusted independently of the height of another side of the one bed. The structure may comprise a drive member which is telescopically adjustable between a first orientation where the height of the one side and the another side are not independently adjustable and a second orientation where the height of the one side and the another side are independently adjustable. The drive member may be a rigid drive member. The structure may comprise a drive assembly which is used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration, the drive assembly comprising a drive member which moves longitudinally between a first orientation where the height of the one side and the another side are not independently adjustable and a second orientation where the height of the one side and the another side are independently adjustable. The drive member may rotate to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may comprise a rotatable member which is used to adjust the height of the one side independently of the another side. A flexible drive member may wrap around the rotatable member. The flexible drive member may be a cable. The flexible drive member may be a chain.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a plurality of lifting assemblies coupled to the structure, the lifting assemblies being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a drive assembly which is used to drive the lifting assemblies; wherein the drive assembly comprises a drive member which is movable between a first orientation where the lifting assemblies move in unison and a second orientation where one of the lifting assemblies is movable independent of another one of the lifting assemblies. The lifting assemblies may be coupled to opposing walls of the structure. The drive member may be a rigid drive member. The drive assembly may include a motor which is used to drive the lifting assemblies. The drive assembly may include a motor assembly, the motor assembly including a motor and a brake, the brake being used to hold at least one of the beds in place when the motor is not activated.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a plurality of lifting assemblies coupled to the structure, the lifting assemblies being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a drive assembly which is used to drive the lifting assemblies; wherein the drive assembly comprises a flexible drive member which is received by a rotatable member, the rotatable member being used to move the bed relative to only one lifting assembly. The flexible drive member may wrap onto the rotatable member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a plurality of lifting assemblies coupled to the structure, the lifting assemblies being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a rigid drive member which is used to move the plurality of lifting assemblies in unison. The drive member may be adjustable between a first orientation where the lifting assemblies are moved in unison and a second orientation where the lifting assemblies are moved independently of each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a plurality of guide members coupled to the structure; a plurality of moving members each of which cooperates with a corresponding guide member to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a rigid drive member which is used to move the moving members in unison.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a slide-out compartment which is movable between a retracted position and an extended position; superposed beds coupled to the slide-out compartment, the beds being vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The beds may be smaller than a queen size. The beds may be twin or single size. One of the beds may be a futon bed. One of the beds may be convertible between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds each of which include a first side and a second side, the first sides being positioned opposite the second sides, the beds being vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the first sides of the beds are coupled to a first wall of the structure and the second sides are spaced apart from a second wall of the structure to at least allow a person to pass there between, the first wall and the second wall being positioned opposite each other. The second sides may be able to receive a person on the beds.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds each of which include a first side and a second side, the first sides being positioned opposite the second sides, the beds being vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the first sides of the beds are coupled to a first wall of the structure and the second sides are used to receive a person on the beds.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, the superposed beds being coupled to only one wall of the structure. A motor may be used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The motor may be a direct current motor. The motor may be an alternating current motor. The structure may be a recreational vehicle which includes a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle, the beds being spaced apart in the cargo area in the first configuration. One of the beds may be used to move another one of the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a pair of superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, each pair of superposed beds being coupled to only one wall of the structure. One pair of beds may be coupled to one wall of the structure and another pair of superposed beds may be coupled to another wall of the structure, the one wall being positioned opposite the another wall.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other and a ladder which is used to access one of the beds when the beds are in the first configuration, the ladder being coupled to an underside of one of the beds when the beds are in the second configuration. The ladder may be slidably coupled to the underside of the one bed. The ladder may slide under the underside of the one bed in a direction that is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the one bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds is convertible into a dinette. The one bed may convert into a dinette by raising a portion of a bed surface.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds is movable between a first orientation where the one bed is used for sleeping and a second orientation where the one bed includes a plurality of surfaces each of which is at a different height. One of the surfaces may be used to serve food. Another one of the surfaces may be used for seating. One of the surfaces may be used as a table.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds is movable between a first orientation where the one bed is used for sleeping and a second orientation where the one bed includes a table surface and a seating surface, the table surface being positioned above the seating surface.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds is movable between a first orientation where the one bed is used for sleeping and a second orientation where the one bed includes a food serving surface and a seating surface, the food serving surface being positioned above the seating surface.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a table coupled to one of the beds when the beds are in the second configuration. The table may be coupled to an underside of the one bed. A chair may also be coupled to one of the beds when the beds are in the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a seating unit coupled to a wall of the structure, the seating unit being movable between a use orientation where the seating unit is used for seating and a stowed orientation; wherein the seating unit is in the stowed orientation and positioned between one of the beds and the wall of the structure when the beds are in the first configuration and the seating unit is in the use orientation when the beds are in the second configuration. The structure may comprise a table positioned adjacent to the seating unit when the seating unit is in the use orientation and the beds are in the second configuration. The seating unit may fold between the use orientation and the stowed orientation.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and a seating unit coupled to a wall of the structure, the seating unit being stowed between one of the beds and the wall of the structure when the beds are in the first configuration and the seating unit being used for seating when the beds are in the second configuration. The seating unit may be folded against the wall of the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, one of the beds being supported in the first configuration by a stop.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a lifting assembly which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other, the lifting assembly including a stop which is used to support one of the beds in the first configuration. The stop may be used to stop downward movement of the one bed. The one bed may be an upper bed which is positioned above a lower bed. The stop may be positioned in a channel in the lifting assembly. The stop may be vertically adjustable. The stop may be coupled to any one of a plurality of vertically varying locations on the lifting assembly.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a lifting assembly which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the second bed is supported in the first configuration using a stop which is coupled to the structure, the stop being separate from the lifting assembly. The stop may be coupled to an exterior surface of a wall of the structure.
According to another embodiment, a method comprises: coupling a first lifting assembly to a first wall of a structure; coupling a second lifting assembly to a second wall of the structure; and interconnecting the first lifting assembly with the second lifting assembly using a rigid drive member, the rigid drive member being used to drive the first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly in unison. The method may comprise coupling a first bed between the first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly. The method may comprise coupling a second bed between the first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly, the beds being positioned one above another. The method may comprise driving the first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly using a motor. The method may comprise moving superposed beds which are coupled between the first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a method comprises: coupling a first guide member to a first wall of a structure; coupling a second guide member to a second wall of the structure; and drivably coupling the first guide member to the second guide member using a rigid drive member, the rigid drive member being used to move the first guide member and the second guide member in unison. The method may comprise coupling a bed between the first guide member and the second guide member.
According to another embodiment, a method comprises: coupling a first guide member to a first wall of a structure; coupling a second guide member to a second wall of the structure; and coupling a bed between the first guide member and the second guide member, the bed being vertically movable using a motor. The method may comprise coupling another bed between the first guide member and the second guide member where the beds are superposed and are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positions adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a method comprises: coupling a first lifting assembly to a first wall of a structure; coupling a second lifting assembly to a second wall of the structure; and coupling a bed between the first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly, the bed being vertically movable using a motor.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a plurality of lifting assemblies which are used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein a flexible drive member is used to move the plurality of lifting assemblies in unison. The flexible drive member may be a chain.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a plurality of guide assemblies which are used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein a flexible drive member is used to move the plurality of guide assemblies in unison. The flexible drive member may be a chain.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a drive assembly including a screw which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The structure may comprise a plurality of drive assemblies each of which includes a screw, one of the drive assemblies being coupled to one wall and another of the drive assemblies being coupled to another wall, the one wall and the another wall being positioned opposite each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a drive assembly including a strap which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The strap may wrap on a shaft. The strap may be endless. The strap may move along an endless path.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a lifting assembly including a strap which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The structure may comprise another lifting assembly which includes a strap, the lifting assemblies being coupled to opposing walls of the structure, wherein a rigid drive member is used to move the straps in unison.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a first lifting assembly coupled to a first wall of the structure; and a second lifting assembly coupled to a second wall of the structure which is positioned opposite the first wall, the first lifting assembly and second lifting assembly each including a strap which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly may each include a shaft which the corresponding strap wraps onto. The movement of the shafts in the first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly may be synchronized using a rigid drive member which extends between the first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and at least two pairs of lifting assemblies, each lifting assembly including a strap which wraps on a shaft and which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second; wherein one pair of lifting assemblies is coupled to one wall of the structure and another pair of lifting assemblies is coupled to another wall which is positioned opposite the one wall; and wherein a drive member is used to move the pairs of lifting assemblies in unison.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a guide assembly including a strap which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a drive assembly including a drive member comprising a first flexible drive material coupled to a second flexible drive material which is different than the first flexible drive material, the drive member being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The first flexible drive material may be a chain, cable, or strap and the second flexible drive material may be chain, cable, or strap. The first flexible drive material may be chain and the second flexible drive material may be cable. The first flexible drive material may be a strap and the second flexible drive material may be a toothed belt. The drive member may be an endless drive member. The first flexible drive material may cooperate with a toothed wheel to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration. The second flexible drive member may cooperate with a pulley. The structure may comprise a motor which is used to move the toothed wheel. The drive member may be positioned vertically adjacent to a wall of the structure. The drive member may be coupled to a moving member, the moving member cooperating with a guide member to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; and a cable which is used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The cable may be part of an endless drive member. The cable may wrap around a cylinder. The cable may wrap around a cylinder which is coupled to one of the beds. The one bed may be a lower bed and another one of the beds may be an upper bed. The cylinder may be coupled to the lower bed. The structure may comprise a plurality of cables which are used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration, each cable wrapping on a drum where the drums are positioned adjacent to each other in parallel. The drums may be moved in unison using a chain. The drums may be moved in unison using a gear. The structure may comprise opposing walls, wherein the drums are positioned perpendicular to the walls. The structure may comprise opposing walls, wherein the drums are positioned parallel to the walls.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a first guide assembly coupled to a first wall of the structure; and a second guide assembly coupled to a second wall of the structure; wherein the first guide assembly and the second guide assembly each include a cable which wraps on a shaft, the cables being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. A drive member may be used to move the cable in each drive assembly in unison. The drive member may be a flexible drive member. The drive member may be a rigid drive member. The first wall may be positioned opposite the second wall.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a first moving member coupled to at least one of the beds, the first moving member moving in cooperation with a first guide member; a second moving member coupled to at least one of the beds, the second moving member moving in cooperation with a second guide member; wherein a cable is coupled to the first moving member and the second moving member, the cable being used to vertically move the first moving member and the second moving member. The first moving member may move inside a channel defined by the first guide member and the second moving member may move inside a channel defined by the second guide member. The cable may wind onto a spool, cylinder, or shaft to vertically move the first moving member and the second moving member. The cable may be an endless cable.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the beds are positioned in a cavity in the structure in the second configuration. The beds may be positioned in a cavity in the ceiling of the structure. The beds may be positioned in a cavity in the floor of the structure. The beds may be positioned in the cavity so that a side of one of the beds which is exposed to an interior of the structure is at least substantially flush with a surface of the structure which is adjacent to the cavity. The surface of the structure may be a ceiling or a floor.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein the beds are positioned in a ceiling or floor of the structure so that the beds are at least substantially flush with the ceiling or floor.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and an electronic control system which is used to prevent unauthorized movement of the beds. The electronic control system may prevent unauthorized movement of the beds using a code which includes letters and/or numbers, a key, and/or a combination. The electronic control system may prevent unauthorized movement of the beds using a code which is entered using a keypad. The electronic control system may prevent unauthorized movement of the beds using a key switch. The electronic control system may prevent unauthorized movement of the beds using a lock which is unlocked using the code, the kay and/or the combination. The electronic control system may prevent unauthorized movement of the beds using a combination locking mechanism.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a plurality of lifting assemblies; superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and an electronic control system which is used to synchronize movement of the lifting assemblies. The electronic control system may receive position information relating to the position of each of the lifting assemblies and/or beds, the position information being used to synchronize movement of the lifting assemblies. An encoder may be used to provide the position information. A potentiometer may be used to provide the position information. A Hall-effect sensor may be used to provide the position information.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and an electronic control system which is used control the movement of at least one of the beds. The electronic control system may control the movement of the one bed using feedback control.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and an electronic control system which is used to store a use position of at least one of the beds in memory; wherein the electronic control system is used to move the one bed to the use position. The use position may be input into the electronic control system by an end user of the beds. The use position may be input into the electronic control system by the manufacturer of the structure and/or beds.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and an electronic control system which is used to store a position of at least one of the beds in memory. The electronic control system may store the position in memory in response to user input. The electronic control system may store the current position of the one bed in response to user input. The electronic control system may be used to move the one bed to the position. The electronic control system may be used to move the one bed to the position using feedback control.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; a motor which is used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration; and a circuit breaker which is used to stop the motor when the beds reach the first configuration or the second configuration. The circuit breaker may cut power to the motor to stop the motor. The structure may comprise a stop which is used to stop at least one of the beds when the beds reach the first configuration or the second configuration. The stop may cushion the one bed when it reaches the stop to prevent damage. The stop may include a resilient material which is used to absorb the impact of a component which contacts the stop. The resilient material may be an elastomeric material. The circuit breaker may be tripped when a component which moves with the beds contacts the stop.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; a motor which is used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration; and a sensor which is used to determine when at least one of the beds has reached an end position; wherein the motor is stopped when the one bed has reached the end position. The sensor may be a load sensor. The sensor may be a current sensor. The sensor may be a circuit breaker.
According to another embodiment, a method comprises: vertically moving superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other. The method may comprise moving one of the superposed beds using another one of the superposed beds from the first configuration to the second configuration. The one bed may lift the another bed to move the another bed from the first configuration to the second configuration. The superposed beds may include an upper bed and a lower bed, the method comprising lifting the upper bed with the lower bed to move the upper bed from the first configuration to the second configuration. The superposed beds may include an upper bed and a lower bed, the method comprising lowering the upper bed while the upper bed is supported by the lower bed to move the upper bed from the second configuration to the first configuration.
According to another embodiment, a method comprises: raising a plurality of beds which are superposed from a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart to a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and lowering one of the beds while maintaining another one of the beds stationary.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: an object which is vertically movable; a support member; and a rotatable member; wherein the rotatable member and/or the support member includes a plurality of projections, and wherein the projections on one of the rotatable member or the support member cooperate with the other one of the rotatable member or the support member to vertically move the object. The support member may include a chain which cooperates with the plurality of projections on the rotatable member to vertically move the object. The chain may not move relative to the support member. The chain may be bolted and/or welded to the support member. The rotatable member may be a sprocket. The object may be vertically movable between a use position and a stowed position. The object may be positioned near a ceiling of the structure in the stowed position. The object may be a bed. The rotatable member and the support member may include a plurality of projections, and wherein the projections on the rotatable member cooperate with the projections on the support member to vertically move the object. The rotatable member may include the plurality of projections which cooperate with a plurality of holes in the support member to vertically move the object. The object may be vertically movable between a first position where the object is primarily used and a second position where the object is stowed. The object may be raised in the second position. The rotatable member may be a gear. The structure may be a recreational vehicle. The support member may be a rail. The structure may comprise another support member positioned opposite the support member; and another rotatable member; wherein the another rotatable member and/or the another support member includes a plurality of projections, and wherein the projections on one of the another rotatable member or the another support member cooperate with the other one of the another rotatable member or the another support member to vertically move the object.
According to another embodiment, a structure suitable to be habitable by people comprises: a bed which is vertically movable; a support member coupled to the structure; and a rotatable wheel; wherein the rotatable wheel and/or the support member includes a plurality of projections; the plurality of projections on one of the rotatable wheel or the support member cooperates with the other one of the rotatable wheel or the support member to vertically move the bed. The bed may be vertically movable between a first position where the bed is positioned to be used for sleeping thereon and a second position where the bed is stowed in a raised position. The bed may be vertically movable between a first position where the bed is positioned no more than about 5 feet (or about 1.5 meters) above a floor of the structure and a second position where the bed is positioned adjacent a ceiling of the structure.
According to another embodiment, a system comprises: a bed which is vertically movable at least 6 feet (or about 1.8 meters); a support member configured to be coupled to a wall, the floor, and/or the ceiling of an occupancy area which is used to shelter people overnight; and a rotatable member; wherein the rotatable member and/or the support member includes a plurality of projections, and wherein the projections on one of the rotatable member or the support member cooperate with the other one of the rotatable member or the support member to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a kit comprises: a support member which is configured to be coupled to a structure; and a rotatable member; wherein the rotatable member and/or the support member includes a plurality of projections, and wherein the projections on one of the rotatable member or the support member are configured to cooperate with the other one of the rotatable member or the support member to vertically move an object. The projections on one of the rotatable member or the support member may be configured to cooperate with the other one of the rotatable member or the support member to move the object between a first position where the object is positioned no more than 5 feet (or about 1.5 meters) above a floor of the structure and a second position where the object is positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the structure. The support member may be configured to be vertically coupled to the structure. The kit may comprise a motor which is configured to drive the rotatable member. The motor may be a direct current motor. The object may be a bed. The kit may comprise a plurality of support members configured to be coupled to opposite sides of the structure with the objects being positioned between the support members; and a plurality of rotatable members wherein each rotatable member is configured to cooperate with a corresponding support member to vertically move the object.
According to another embodiment, a group of materials may be provided which when assembled form an apparatus for vertically moving a bed in a structure, the group of materials comprises: a support member which is configured to be coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which is configured to cooperate with the support member to vertically move the bed. The toothed wheel may be configured to cooperate with the support member to vertically move the bed between a first configuration where the bed is positioned to be used for sleeping thereon and a second position where the bed is stowed. The group of materials may comprise at least four support members and at least four toothed wheels, wherein each toothed wheel is configured to cooperate with a corresponding support member to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a land vehicle comprises: a bed which is vertically movable; a support member coupled to the land vehicle; and a rotatable wheel; wherein the rotatable wheel and/or the support member includes a plurality of projections, and wherein the projections on one of the rotatable wheel or the support member cooperate with the projections included with the other one of the rotatable wheel or the support member to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member coupled to a wall which is fixed relative to a floor of the structure; and a rotatable wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including a plurality of holes; and a rotatable wheel which cooperates with the plurality of holes to vertically move the bed. The bed may move vertically between a first position where the bed is used to receive a person thereon for sleeping and a second position where the bed is stowed. The rotatable wheel may include a plurality of projections which cooperate with the plurality of holes. The rotatable wheel may be a sprocket. The rotatable wheel may be a gear. The rotatable wheel may be a cogwheel. The support member may include a slotted rail which cooperates with the rotatable wheel.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support assembly including a plurality of openings; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the plurality of openings to vertically move the bed. The bed may be vertically movable between a first position where the bed is positioned no more than 5 feet (or about 1.5 meters) above a floor of the structure and a second position where the bed is stowed no less than 6 feet (or about 1.8 meters) above the floor. The support assembly may include a slotted rail which cooperates with the plurality of openings to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including a plurality of apertures; and a gear which cooperates with the plurality of apertures to vertically move the bed. The support member may be vertically coupled to the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a plurality of support members coupled to the structure, each of the plurality of support members including a plurality of openings; and a plurality of gears each of which cooperates with the plurality of openings in a corresponding support member to vertically move the bed. One support member may be coupled to one wall of the structure and another support member may be coupled to another wall of the structure which is positioned opposite the one wall. The structure may comprise at least two pairs of support members, one pair of the support members being coupled adjacent to one side of the structure and another pair of the support members being coupled to another side of the structure; and at least four gears each of which cooperates with the plurality of openings in a corresponding support member to vertically move the bed. The one side of the structure may be opposite the other side of the structure.
According to another embodiment, a kit comprises: a support member including a plurality of openings, the support member being configured to be coupled to a structure; and a rotatable member including a plurality of projections which are configured to cooperate with the plurality of openings in the support member to vertically move a object. The support member may be configured to be vertically coupled to the structure. The kit may comprise a motor which is configured to drive the rotatable member. The motor may be a direct current motor. The object may comprise a bed. The kit may comprise a plurality of support members configured to be coupled to opposite sides of the structure with the object being positioned between the support members and a plurality of rotatable members wherein each rotatable member is configured to cooperate with the plurality of openings in a corresponding support member to vertically move the object.
According to another embodiment, a group of materials may be provided which when assembled form an apparatus for vertically moving a bed in a structure, the group of materials comprises: a support member including a plurality of openings, the support member being configured to be coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which is configured to cooperate with the plurality of openings in the support member to vertically move the bed. The group of materials may comprise at least four support members; and at least four toothed wheels; wherein each toothed wheel is configured to cooperate with the plurality of openings in a corresponding support member to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a plurality of support members including a support member coupled to each of opposed walls of the structure, each of the plurality of support members including a plurality of openings; a plurality of toothed wheels each of which cooperates with the plurality of openings in a corresponding support member to vertically move the bed; and only one drive member extending between the opposed walls, the drive member being used to move the toothed wheels in unison. The only one drive member may be a rigid drive member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a support member including a plurality of openings, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the plurality of openings in the support member to vertically move a bed. The structure may be a recreational vehicle. The structure may comprise a plurality of support members, each of which includes a plurality of openings, the support members being coupled to the structure; and a plurality of toothed wheels, each of which cooperates with a corresponding support member to vertically move the bed. The plurality of support members may include a support member coupled to each one of opposing walls of the structure. The toothed wheel may cooperate with the plurality of openings to vertically move superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to each other. The superposed beds may include a lower bed and an upper bed, wherein the lower bed is used to move the upper bed between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may comprise a motor which drives the toothed wheel.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a first vertical rail including a plurality of slots, the first vertical rail being coupled to a first wall of the vehicle; a second vertical rail including a plurality of slots, the second vertical rail being coupled to a second wall of the vehicle, the second wall being positioned opposite the first wall; and a first gear and a second gear which cooperate with the plurality of slots in the first vertical rail and the plurality of slots in the second vertical rail, respectively, to vertically move a bed. The recreational vehicle may comprise a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle, wherein the first gear and the second gear cooperate with the first vertical rail and the second vertical rail, respectively, to vertically move the bed between a first position where the bed is in the cargo area and is used for sleeping thereon and a second position where the bed is stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle. The recreational vehicle may comprise a motor which drives the first gear and the second gear. The recreational vehicle may comprise a third vertical rail including a plurality of slots, the third vertical rail being coupled to the first wall; a fourth vertical rail including a plurality of slots, the fourth vertical rail being coupled to the second wall; and a third gear and a fourth gear which cooperate with the plurality of slots in the third vertical rail and the plurality of slots in the fourth vertical rail, respectively, to vertically move the bed. The recreational vehicle may comprise a chain which is used to move at least two of the first gear, the second gear, the third gear, or the fourth gear in unison. The first gear and the second gear may cooperate with the first vertical rail and the second vertical rail, respectively, to vertically move superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle. The superposed beds may include a lower bed and an upper bed, wherein the lower bed is used to move the upper bed between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a first pair of vertical rails each of which includes a plurality of slots, the first pair of vertical rails being coupled to a first wall of the vehicle; a second pair of vertical rails each of which includes a plurality of slots, the second pair of vertical rails being coupled to a second wall of the vehicle, the second wall being positioned opposite the first wall; a plurality of gears each of which cooperates with the plurality of slots in a corresponding vertical rail from the first pair of vertical rails and the second pair of vertical rails to vertically move a bed; and a motor which is used to drive the gears. The recreational vehicle may comprise a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle, wherein the plurality of gears cooperate with the first pair of vertical rails and the second pair of vertical rails to vertically move the bed between a first position where the bed is in the cargo area and is used for sleeping thereon and a second position where the bed is stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle. A chain may be used to move at least two of the gears in unison. The plurality of gears may cooperate with the first pair of vertical rails and the second pair of vertical rails to vertically move superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle. The superposed beds may include a lower bed and an upper bed, wherein the lower bed is used to move the upper bed between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a first pair of support members each of which includes an engaging portion, the first pair of support members being coupled to a first wall of the vehicle; a second pair of support members each of which includes an engaging portion, the second pair of support members being coupled to a second wall of the vehicle; a plurality of toothed wheels each of which cooperates with the engaging portion of a corresponding support member from the first pair of support members and the second pair of support members to vertically move a bed; and only one drive member which is used to simultaneously move toothed wheels which correspond to the first pair of support members and toothed wheels which correspond to the second pair of support members. The only one drive member may be rigid.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; a bed which is vertically movable between a first position where the bed is positioned in the cargo area and a second position where the bed is stowed; a support member coupled to the recreational vehicle; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the bed. The toothed wheel may cooperate with the support member to vertically move the bed at least 4 feet (or about 1.2 meters). The toothed wheel may cooperate with the support member to vertically move the bed at least 5 feet (or about 1.5 meters). The toothed wheel may cooperate with the support member to vertically move the bed at least 6 feet (or about 1.8 meters). The bed may be used to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon in the first position and is stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the recreational vehicle in the second position. The toothed wheel may cooperate with a plurality of holes in the support member to vertically move the bed. The bed may be raised in the second position. The support member may be coupled to a wall of the recreational vehicle which is fixed relative to a floor of the recreational vehicle.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; a bed which is vertically movable between a first position where the bed is positioned in the cargo area and a second position where the bed is stowed; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the recreational vehicle; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the vehicle; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move a bed between a first position where the bed is in the cargo area and is used for sleeping thereon and a second position where the bed is stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle. The recreational vehicle may comprise a door which is used as a ramp to move the off-road vehicle into and/or out of the cargo area. The recreational vehicle may comprise a plurality of support members each of which includes an engaging portion, each of the plurality of support members being coupled to the vehicle; and a plurality of toothed wheels, each of which cooperates with the engaging portion of a corresponding support member to vertically move the bed. The recreational vehicle may comprise a motor which drives the toothed wheel. The toothed wheel may cooperate with the engaging portion to vertically move superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart in the cargo area and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to the ceiling of the vehicle. The superposed beds may include a lower bed and an upper bed, wherein the lower bed is used to move the upper bed between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; a first vertical rail including an engaging portion, the first vertical rail being coupled to a first wall of the vehicle; a second vertical rail including an engaging portion, the second vertical rail being coupled to a second wall of the vehicle, and the second wall being positioned opposite the first wall; and a first gear and a second gear which cooperate with the engaging portion of the first vertical rail and the engaging portion of the second vertical rail, respectively, to vertically move a bed between a first position where the bed is in the cargo area and a second position where the bed is adjacent a ceiling of the vehicle. The recreational vehicle may comprise a motor which drives the first gear and the second gear. The engaging portion may comprise a plurality of slots. The recreational vehicle may comprise a third vertical rail including an engaging portion, the third vertical rail being coupled to the first wall; a fourth vertical rail including an engaging portion, the fourth vertical rail being coupled to the second wall; and a third gear and a fourth gear which cooperate with the engaging portion of the third vertical rail and the engaging portion of the fourth vertical rail, respectively, to move the bed between the first position and the second position. The recreational vehicle may comprise a chain which is used to move at least two of the first gear, the second gear, the third gear, or the fourth gear in unison. The recreational vehicle may comprise a door which is used as a ramp to move the off-road vehicle into and/or out of the cargo area. The first gear and the second gear may cooperate with the engaging portion of the first vertical rail and the engaging portion of the second vertical rail, respectively, to vertically move superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart in the cargo area and a second configuration where the beds are stowed. The superposed beds may include a lower bed and an upper bed, wherein the lower bed is used to move the upper bed between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; a first pair of vertical rails each of which includes an engaging portion, the first pair of vertical rails being coupled to a first wall of the vehicle; a second pair of vertical rails each of which includes an engaging portion, the second pair of vertical rails being coupled to a second wall of the vehicle, the second wall being positioned opposite the first wall; a plurality of gears each of which cooperates with the engaging portion of a corresponding vertical rail from the first pair of vertical rails and the second pair of vertical rails to vertically move a bed between a first position where the bed is in the cargo area and a second position where the bed is adjacent a ceiling of the vehicle; and a motor which is used to drive the gears. A chain may be used to move at least two of the gears in unison. The plurality of gears may cooperate with the first pair of vertical rails and the second pair of vertical rails to vertically move superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart in the cargo area and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle. The superposed beds may include a lower bed and an upper bed, wherein the lower bed is used to move the upper bed between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; a bed which is vertically movable between a first position where the bed is positioned in the cargo area and a second position where the bed is stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the recreational vehicle; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the recreational vehicle; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed between the first position and the second position.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; a bed which is vertically movable between a lowered position where the bed is positioned in the cargo area and a raised position where the bed is stowed; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the recreational vehicle; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed between the lowered position and the raised position.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; a bed which is vertically movable between a first position where the bed is positioned in the cargo area and a second position where the bed is stowed in a raised position; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the recreational vehicle; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed between the first position and the second position.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; a bed which is vertically movable between a lowered position where the bed is positioned in the cargo area and a raised position; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to a wall which is fixed relative to a floor of the recreational vehicle; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed between the lowered position and the raised position.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; a bed which is vertically movable between a lowered position where the bed is positioned in the cargo area and a raised position; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to a wall which is immobile relative to the remainder of the recreation vehicle taken as a whole; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed between the lowered position and the raised position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member coupled to the structure; and a rotatable wheel which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed is stowed in a raised position. The rotatable wheel may include a plurality of projections which cooperate with the support member. The rotatable wheel may be a sprocket. The rotatable wheel may be a gear. The rotatable wheel may be a cogwheel. The rotatable wheel may cooperate with a plurality of holes in the support member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed between a use position and a stowed position, wherein the bed is raised in the stowed position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed between a first position where the bed is used for sleeping and a second position where the bed is positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle. The toothed wheel may rotate on an axis which is transverse to a longitudinal direction of the bed. The support member may be coupled to a wall of the structure, and wherein the toothed wheel rotates on an axis which is parallel to the wall. The toothed wheel may be enclosed by a housing. A bed frame may include the housing. The structure may comprise a moving member, the moving member being used to cover the toothed wheel. The bed may be selectively coupled to and decoupled from the support member. The toothed wheel may remain in cooperation with the engaging portion when the bed is decoupled from the support member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first support member including an engaging portion, the first support member being coupled to the structure; a second support member including an engaging portion, the second support member being coupled to the structure; and a first toothed wheel and a second toothed wheel which cooperate with the engaging portion of the first support member and the engaging portion of the second support member, respectively, to vertically move a bed to a raised stowed position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a first support member including an engaging portion, the first support member being coupled to the structure; a second support member including an engaging portion, the second support member being coupled to the structure; a first rotatable wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion of the first support member to vertically move one side of the bed; and a second rotatable wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion of the second support member to vertically move another side of the bed; wherein the height of the one side of the bed may be adjusted independently of the height of the another side of the bed. The structure may comprise a drive member which is used to move the first rotatable wheel and the second rotatable wheel, the drive member being telescopically adjustable between a first orientation where the height of the one side and the another side are not independently adjustable and a second orientation where the height of the one side and the another side are independently adjustable. The drive member may be a rigid drive member. The structure may comprise a drive assembly which is used to move the first rotatable wheel and the second rotatable wheel, the drive assembly comprising a drive member which moves longitudinally between a first orientation where the height of the one side and the another side are not independently adjustable and a second orientation where the height of the one side and the another side are independently adjustable.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a plurality of lifting assemblies each of which includes an engaging portion, the lifting assemblies being coupled to the structure; and a drive assembly including a plurality of toothed wheels each of which cooperates with a corresponding engaging portion of the lifting assemblies to vertically move the bed; wherein the drive assembly comprises a drive member which is movable between a first orientation where the lifting assemblies move in unison and a second orientation where one of the lifting assemblies is movable independent of another one of the lifting assemblies. The lifting assemblies may be coupled to opposing walls of the structure. The drive member may be a rigid drive member. The drive assembly may include a motor which is used to drive the plurality of toothed wheels. The drive assembly may include a motor assembly, the motor assembly including a motor and a brake, the brake being used to hold at least one of the beds in place when the motor is not activated.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first support member including an engaging portion, the first support member being coupled to the structure; a second support member including an engaging portion, the second support member being coupled to the structure; a first toothed wheel and a second toothed wheel which cooperate with the engaging portion of the first support member and the engaging portion of the second support member, respectively, to vertically move a bed, a drive member which is movable between a first orientation where the first toothed wheel and the second toothed wheel move in unison and a second orientation where one of the first toothed wheel or the second toothed wheel is movable independent of the other one of the first toothed wheel or the second toothed wheel.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a plurality of support members each of which include an engaging portion, the support members being coupled to the structure; a plurality of toothed wheels each of which cooperates with a corresponding support member to vertically move a bed; a drive member which is movable between a first orientation where the plurality of toothed wheels move in unison and a second orientation where one of the plurality of toothed wheels is movable independently of another one of the plurality of toothed wheels. The plurality of support members may be coupled to opposing walls of the structure. The drive member may be movable between the first orientation and the second orientation where, in the second orientation, one of the plurality of toothed wheels coupled to one wall is movable independent of another one of the plurality of toothed wheels coupled to another wall positioned opposite the one wall. The drive member may be longitudinally movable between the first orientation and the second orientation. The drive member may be telescopically movable between the first orientation and the second orientation.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a plurality of support members each of which include an engaging portion, the support members being coupled to the structure; a plurality of moving members each of which moves on the outside of a corresponding support member to vertically move a bed; and a plurality of toothed wheels each of which cooperates with a corresponding support member to vertically move the moving members.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion; a moving member which moves in cooperation with the support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the moving member and the bed; wherein the moving member moves on the outside of the support member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion; a moving assembly which moves in cooperation with the support member, the moving assembly including a moving member and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the moving member moves over an outside surface of the support member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion; a moving member which defines a channel, the moving member moving in cooperation with the support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the moving member and the bed; wherein the support member is positioned in the interior of the channel.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and a lifting assembly which includes a support member including an engaging portion; a moving member which moves in cooperation with the support member; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the moving member and the bed; wherein the moving member moves over an outside surface of the support member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first support member including an engaging portion, the first support member being coupled to a first wall; a second support member including an engaging portion, the second support member being coupled to a second wall, the first wall being positioned opposite the second wall; a first toothed wheel and a second toothed wheel which cooperate with the engaging portion of the first support member and the engaging portion of the second support member, respectively, to vertically move a bed; and a drive assembly which is used to move the first toothed wheel and the second toothed wheel in unison; wherein the distance between the first wall and the second wall varies as the bed is moved vertically; and wherein the drive assembly accounts for the distance variations between the first wall and the second wall. The drive assembly may include a telescopic drive member which is positioned between the first wall and the second wall.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first support member including an engaging portion, the first support member being coupled to a first wall; a second support member including an engaging portion, the second support member being coupled to a second wall, the first wall being positioned opposite the second wall; and a first toothed wheel and a second toothed wheel which cooperate with the engaging portion of the first support member and the engaging portion of the second support member, respectively, to vertically move a bed; wherein the distance between the first wall and the second wall varies as the bed is moved vertically; and wherein the bed is coupled between the first wall and the second wall to account for the distance variations. The bed may be coupled to the first wall and the second wall using oversized apertures which account for the distance variations. The bed may be telescopically coupled to the first wall and the second wall. The structure may be mobile. The distance between the walls may vary at least about 0.125 inches (or about 3.2 millimeters). The distance between the walls may vary at least about 0.25 inches (or about 6.4 millimeters). The distance between the walls may vary at least about 0.385 inches (or about 9.8 millimeters). The distance between the walls may vary at least about 0.5 inches (or about 12.7 millimeters). The distance between the walls may vary at least about 0.75 inches (or about 19.1 millimeters). The distance between the walls may vary between about 0.125 inches to about 2 inches (or about 3.2 millimeters to about 5 centimeters). The distance between the walls may vary between about 0.385 inches to about 1.25 inches (or about 9.8 millimeters to about 3.2 centimeters). The bed may be coupled to at least one of the first wall or the second wall using a hole which receives a pin. The structure may comprise a drive assembly which longitudinally extends between the opposing walls, the drive assembly being configured to account for the distance variations between the walls.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed positioned between opposing walls of the structure; a first toothed wheel and a second toothed wheel which cooperate with an engaging portion of a first support member and an engaging portion of a second support member, respectively to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed is coupled between the opposing walls in a manner to account for distance variations between the walls as the bed moves vertically.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed positioned between opposing walls of the structure; a first toothed wheel and a second toothed wheel which cooperate with an engaging portion of a first support member and an engaging portion of a second support member, respectively to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed is coupled between the opposing walls in a manner to compensate for distance variations between the walls as the bed moves vertically.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed positioned between opposing walls of the structure; a plurality of support members each of which include an engaging portion, the plurality of support members including a support member coupled to each of the opposing walls; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the combination of the support members and the bed accounts for variations in the width of the walls as the bed moves vertically. The bed may be movable in a direction which is perpendicular to the walls to account for variations in the width of the walls. The combination of the support members and the bed may include play in a horizontal direction to account for variations in the width of the walls. The combination of the support members and the bed may include play in a direction perpendicular to the walls to account for variations in the width of the walls. The bed may be movable in a longitudinal direction to account for variations in the width of the walls.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first support member including an engaging portion, the first support member being coupled to a first wall; a second support member including an engaging portion, the second support member being coupled to a second wall, the first wall being positioned opposite the second wall; and a first toothed wheel and a second toothed wheel which cooperate with the engaging portion of the first support member and the engaging portion of the second support member, respectively, to vertically move a bed; wherein the bed is coupled between the first wall and the second wall in a manner to provide play to account for variations in distance between the first wall and the second wall as the bed moves vertically.
According to another embodiment, a system comprises: a bed positioned between opposing walls of the structure; a plurality of lifting assemblies each of which include an engaging portion, the plurality of lifting assemblies including a lifting assembly coupled to each of the opposing walls; and a plurality of toothed wheels each of which cooperates with the engaging portion of a corresponding lifting assembly to vertically move the bed; wherein the combination of the lifting assemblies and the bed include play to compensate for variations in the width of the walls as the bed moves vertically. The play may be provided where the bed is coupled to the lifting assembly. Each lifting assembly may comprise a support assembly which includes the engaging portion and a moving assembly, the moving assembly cooperating with the support assembly to vertically move the bed, and wherein the play is provided between the bed and a moving assembly. Each lifting assembly may comprise a support assembly which includes the engaging portion and a moving assembly, the moving assembly cooperating with the support assembly to vertically move the bed, the play being provided between a moving assembly and a support assembly.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed which is vertically movable; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to a wall which is fixed relative to a floor of the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed which is vertically movable; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to a wall which is immobile relative to the remainder of the structure taken as a whole; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed which is vertically movable; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed may be selectively coupled to and decoupled from the structure. The toothed wheel may remain in cooperation with the engaging portion when the bed is decoupled from the structure. The bed may be selectively coupled to and decoupled from the support member. The toothed wheel may remain in cooperation with the engaging portion when the bed is decoupled from the support member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed which is vertically movable; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed is selectively removable from the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed which is vertically movable; a lifting assembly including an engaging portion, the lifting assembly being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed is selectively removable from the lifting assembly.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed which is vertically movable; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed, the toothed wheel being enclosed by a housing.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed which is vertically movable; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; a moving member which cooperates with the support member to vertically move the bed; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the moving member; wherein the moving member encloses the toothed wheel.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a plurality of support members each of which include an engaging portion, the support members being coupled to the structure; and a plurality of toothed wheels each of which cooperates with the engaging portion of a corresponding support member to vertically move a bed; wherein each of the toothed wheels is enclosed. Each of the toothed wheels may be enclosed using a separate housing.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed including a bed frame, the bed being vertically movable; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the toothed wheel is not attached to the bed frame.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed including a bed frame, the bed being vertically movable; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the toothed wheel is separate from the bed frame.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed including a bed frame, the bed being vertically movable; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a drive assembly including a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the drive assembly is not attached to the bed frame.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed including a bed frame, the bed being vertically movable; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a drive assembly including a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the drive assembly is separate from the bed frame.
According to another embodiment, a method comprises: coupling a first support member to a structure, the first support member including an engaging portion which cooperates with a first toothed wheel to vertically move a bed; coupling a second support member to the structure, the second support member including an engaging portion which cooperates with a second toothed wheel to vertically move the bed; coupling the bed to the first and second support members.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a slide-out compartment which is movable between a retracted position and an extended position; a bed coupled to the slide-out compartment; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the slide-out compartment; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed. The beds may be smaller than a queen size bed. The beds may be twin or single size. The bed may be a futon bed. The bed may convert from a sleeping configuration to a seating configuration. A seat back may be provided in the seating configuration.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a slide-out compartment including a bed, the slide-out compartment being movable between a retracted position and an extended position; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the slide-out compartment; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed is a futon bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed is movable between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed is movable between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed including a first side and a second side, the first side being positioned opposite the second side; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the first side of the bed is coupled to a first wall of the structure and the second side is spaced apart from a second wall of the structure to at least allow a person to there between, the first wall and the second wall being positioned opposite each other. The second side of the bed may be used by a person to move onto the bed. The second side of the bed may be supported using a movable leg when the bed is used for sleeping.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed including a first side and a second side, the first side being positioned opposite the second side; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the first side of the bed is coupled to a first wall of the structure and the second side is used to receive a person on the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed including a first side and a second side, the first side being positioned opposite the second side; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the first side of the bed is coupled to a first wall of the structure and the second side is used to receive a person on the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed is coupled to only one wall of the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed converts into a dinette.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed is movable between a first orientation where the bed is used for sleeping and a second orientation where the bed includes a plurality of surfaces each of which is at a different height.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed; wherein the bed is movable between a first orientation where the bed is used for sleeping and a second orientation where the bed includes a table surface and a seating surface, the table surface being positioned above the seating surface.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a support member including an engaging portion, the support member being coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the engaging portion to vertically move the bed to a stowed position; wherein the bed is positioned in a cavity in the structure in the stowed position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and a chain which is used to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and a chain coupled to the bed, the chain having a longitudinal direction which extends vertically, the chain being used to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and a chain coupled to the structure and the bed, the chain being used to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and a chain including a vertically oriented load bearing portion, the chain being used to vertically move the bed. The structure may comprise a toothed wheel coupled to the structure, the toothed wheel rotating on an axis which is perpendicular to a wall of the structure, the toothed wheel cooperating with the chain to vertically move the bed. The chain may move vertically relative to the structure as the bed moves. The chain may cooperate with a toothed wheel to vertically move the bed, and wherein the chain moves relative to the toothed wheel at the same or substantially the same rate as the bed moves vertically. The chain may be stationary relative to the structure as the bed moves. The chain may be at least part of an endless loop. The chain may move along an endless path. The chain may include a vertically oriented return portion which is parallel to the load bearing portion.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and a guide assembly coupled to the structure, the guide assembly including a chain which is used to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and a lifting assembly coupled to the structure, the lifting assembly including a chain which is used to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a first chain positioned adjacent to a first wall of the structure; and a second chain positioned adjacent to a second wall of the structure; wherein the first chain and the second chain each move along an endless path to vertically move the bed. A load bearing portion of the first chain and a load bearing portion of the second chain may be positioned vertically. The first wall may be positioned opposite the second wall. The first chain and the second chain may cooperate with a first toothed wheel and a second toothed wheel, respectively, to vertically move the bed, the first toothed wheel being coupled to the first wall and the second toothed wheel being coupled to the second wall where at least one of the first toothed wheel or the second toothed wheel rotates on an axis which is perpendicular to a wall of the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a first chain positioned adjacent to a first wall of the structure; and a second chain positioned adjacent to a second wall of the structure; wherein the first chain and the second chain each include a load bearing portion which is positioned vertically, the first chain and the second chain being used to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a first chain positioned adjacent to a first wall of the structure; and a second chain positioned adjacent to a second wall of the structure; wherein the first chain and the second chain each move along a vertical path, the chain being used to move the bed along the path.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a first guide member including a first chain positioned vertically inside the first guide member, the first guide member being coupled to the structure; and a second guide member including a second chain positioned vertically inside the second guide member, the second guide member being coupled to the structure; wherein the first chain and the second chain are used to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a first chain positioned adjacent to a first wall of the structure; and a second chain positioned adjacent to a second wall of the structure, the first wall being positioned opposite the second wall; wherein the first chain and the second chain are used to vertically move the bed. The first chain and the second chain may be positioned vertically adjacent to the first wall and the second wall, respectively. The first chain and the second chain may move vertically at the same rate as the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and an endless chain coupled to the bed and positioned vertically; wherein the endless chain is used to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a chain coupled to the structure; and a toothed wheel which cooperates with the chain to vertically move the bed; wherein the toothed wheel moves vertically with the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a chain coupled to the structure; a toothed wheel which cooperates with the chain to vertically move the bed; and a motor which is used to drive the toothed wheel; wherein the motor moves vertically with the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and an endless drive member coupled to the bed and used to move the bed vertically. The structure may comprise a tension adjusting assembly which is used to adjust the tension in the endless drive member. The tension adjusting assembly may be used to provide a constant amount of tension in the endless drive member. The tension adjusting assembly may automatically provide a constant amount of tension in the endless drive member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and a drive member which at least partially defines an endless loop, the drive member being coupled to the bed and used to vertically move the bed. The drive member may be a flexible drive member.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and a drive member which moves along an endless path, the drive member being used to vertically move the bed along at least a portion of the path.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and a flexible drive member which is used to move the bed along an endless drive path, the drive member being used to vertically move the bed along at least a portion of the path.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and a drive member which moves along a vertical endless path, the drive member being used to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; and a vertically movable bed.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; a bed; and a motor which is used to move the bed vertically.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; and superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart in the cargo area and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to each other. The beds may be coupled between opposing walls of the recreational vehicle. The beds may be coupled to only one wall of the recreational vehicle.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; and superposed beds which move vertically between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart in the cargo area and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to each other. The beds may be stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle. The beds may be maintained at least substantially in a horizontal plane as the beds move between the first configuration and the second configuration. The superposed beds may include a lower bed and an upper bed, and wherein the lower bed is used to vertically move the upper bed between the first configuration and the second configuration. The superposed beds may move vertically between the first configuration, the second configuration, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned in the cargo area to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and another one of the beds is in a stowed position. The beds may include an upper bed and a lower bed, and wherein a position of the upper bed in the first configuration may be adjusted vertically. The recreational vehicle may comprise a motor which is used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle; a first wall; a second wall positioned opposite the first wall; and superposed beds which extend between the first wall and the second wall, the beds being vertically and translationally movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart in the cargo area to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle. The superposed beds may include a lower bed and an upper bed, and wherein the lower bed is used to vertically move the upper bed between the first configuration and the second configuration. The superposed beds may move vertically between the first configuration, the second configuration, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned in the cargo area to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and another one of the beds is in a stowed position. The beds may include an upper bed and a lower bed, and wherein a position of the upper bed in the first configuration may be adjusted vertically. The recreational vehicle may comprise a motor which is used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a method comprises: vertically moving superposed beds from a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart in a cargo area of a recreational vehicle to a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle; and moving an off-road vehicle into the cargo area of the vehicle. The method may comprise: moving the off-road vehicle out of the cargo area of the vehicle; and vertically moving the superposed beds from the second configuration to the first configuration. The method may comprise moving the superposed beds from the second configuration to a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned in the cargo area to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and another one of the beds is in a stowed position. The superposed beds may comprise a lower bed and an upper bed, the method may comprise moving the lower bed and the upper bed from the first configuration to the second configuration by moving the lower bed while the upper bed is stationary to an intermediate configuration where the lower bed and the upper bed are positioned adjacent to each other; and simultaneously moving the lower bed and the upper bed to the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and an apparatus including a flexible drive member which moves along an endless path, the apparatus being coupled to the structure; wherein the apparatus is used to vertically move the bed along the endless path. The structure may be a recreational vehicle. The apparatus may be used to translationally and reciprocally move the bed along the endless path. The apparatus may comprise a plurality of guide assemblies each of which includes a flexible drive member which moves along an endless path, the guide assemblies being coupled to the structure and being used to vertically move the bed along the endless paths. The bed may be coupled to the flexible drive member. The flexible drive member may comprise a chain. The flexible drive member may move vertically at the same speed as the bed. The apparatus may be used to vertically move superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a first lifting assembly including a flexible drive member which moves along an endless path, the first lifting assembly being coupled to a first wall of the recreational vehicle; a second lifting assembly including a flexible drive member which moves along an endless path, the second lifting assembly being coupled to a second wall of the vehicle, the second wall being positioned opposite the first wall; and a bed positioned between the first lifting assembly and the second lifting assembly; wherein the flexible drive members are used to vertically move the bed. The flexible drive members may be used to translationally and reciprocally move the bed. The flexible drive members may extend lengthwise in a vertical direction. The bed may be coupled to the flexible drive members. Each of the flexible drive members may comprise a chain. The flexible drive members may move vertically lengthwise at the same speed as the bed. The first lifting assembly may include a first moving member and a first guide member which defines a channel, the first moving member being coupled to the bed and the flexible drive member included with the first lifting assembly, the first moving member moving vertically in the channel of the first guide member; and the second lifting assembly may include a second moving member and a second guide member which defines a channel, the second moving member being coupled to the bed and to the flexible drive member included with the second lifting assembly, the second moving member moving vertically in the channel of the second guide member. The flexible drive member may be used to vertically move superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to each other. The recreational vehicle may comprise a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle, and wherein the flexible drive members may be used to vertically move the bed between a first position where the bed is in the cargo area and a second position where the bed is adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a first pair of guide members each of which defines a channel, the first pair of guide members being coupled to a first wall of the vehicle; a second pair of guide members each of which defines a channel, the second pair of guide members being coupled to a second wall of the vehicle, the second wall being positioned opposite the first wall; a plurality of flexible drive members each of which is positioned in the channel of a corresponding guide member from the first pair of guide members and the second pair of guide members, each of the flexible drive members moving along an endless path, the flexible drive members being used to vertically move a bed; and a motor which is used to drive the movement of the flexible drive members. The flexible drive members may be used to translationally and reciprocally move the bed. The bed may be coupled to the flexible drive members. The flexible drive members may comprise a chain. The flexible drive members may move vertically at the same speed as the bed. The recreational vehicle may comprise a first pair of moving members each of which is coupled to the bed and to the flexible drive member and each of which moves vertically in the channel of a corresponding guide member from the first pair of guide members; and a second pair of moving members each of which is coupled to the bed and to the flexible drive member and each of which moves vertically in the channel of a corresponding guide member from the second pair of guide members. The flexible drive members may be used to vertically move superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to each other. The recreational vehicle may comprise a cargo area which is used to receive an off-road vehicle, and wherein the flexible drive members are used to vertically move the bed between a first position where the bed is in the cargo area and a second position where the bed is adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a first chain which extends vertically adjacent to a first wall of the structure; and a second chain which extends vertically adjacent to a second wall of the structure, the first wall and the second wall of the structure being positioned opposite each other; wherein the first chain and the second chain are used to vertically move the bed. The structure may be a recreational vehicle. The first chain and the second chain may move vertically lengthwise at the same speed as the bed. The first chain and the second chain may be used to translationally and reciprocally move the bed. The bed may be coupled to the first chain and the second chain. The first chain and the second chain may be used to vertically move superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to each other. The first chain may be at least part of an endless loop and the second chain is at least part of an endless loop.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; a lifting assembly coupled to a wall of the structure, the lifting assembly including a vertical length of chain which cooperates with a sprocket to vertically move the bed, the sprocket rotating on an axis which is at least substantially perpendicular to the wall of the structure. The structure may be a recreational vehicle. The sprocket may be translationally fixed and rotationally movable relative to the wall of the structure. The sprocket may be positioned at an upper end of the lifting assembly. The length of chain may move vertically at the same speed as the bed. The structure may comprise another lifting assembly coupled to another wall of the structure, the another lifting assembly also including a vertical length of chain which cooperates with a sprocket to vertically move the bed, the sprocket in the another lifting assembly rotating on an axis which is at least substantially perpendicular to the another wall of the structure. The length of chain may be at least part of an endless loop. The length of chain may be coupled to the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed; and a chain which extends vertically adjacent to a wall of the structure, the chain being at least part of an endless loop; wherein the chain is used to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a bed; a first lifting assembly including a first length of chain which extends vertically, the first lifting assembly being coupled to the first wall; and a second lifting assembly including a second length of chain which extends vertically, the second lifting assembly being coupled to the second wall, the first wall and the second wall being positioned opposite each other; wherein the first length of chain and the second length of chain are used to vertically move the bed.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a bed; a first lifting assembly including a first vertically oriented chain loop which is used to vertically move the bed, the first lifting assembly being coupled to the vehicle; and a second lifting assembly including a second vertically oriented chain loop which is used to vertically move the bed, the second lifting assembly being coupled to the vehicle.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a first pair of guide members each of which defines a channel, the first pair of guide members being coupled to a first wall of the vehicle; a second pair of guide members each of which defines a channel, the second pair of guide members being coupled to a second wall of the vehicle, the second wall being positioned opposite the first wall; a plurality of chain lengths each of which extends vertically in the channel of a corresponding guide member from the first pair of guide members and the second pair of guide members, the chain lengths being used to vertically move a bed; and a motor which is used to drive the movement of the chain lengths.
According to another embodiment, a recreational vehicle comprises: a first pair of guide members each of which defines a channel, the first pair of guide members being coupled to a first wall of the vehicle; a second pair of guide members each of which defines a channel, the second pair of guide members being coupled to a second wall of the vehicle, the second wall being positioned opposite the first wall; a plurality of chain loops each of which extends vertically in the channel of a corresponding guide member from the first pair of guide members and the second pair of guide members, the chain loops being used to vertically move a bed; and a motor which is used to drive the movement of the chain loops.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first lifting assembly including a flexible drive member which moves along an endless path, the first lifting assembly being coupled to the structure and to a first side of a bed; and a second lifting assembly including a flexible drive member which moves along an endless path, the second lifting assembly being coupled to the structure and to a second side of a bed; wherein the flexible drive members are used to vertically move the bed. The flexible drive members may be used to translationally and reciprocally move the bed. The flexible drive members may be used to reciprocally move the bed along a portion of the endless path. The flexible drive members may extend lengthwise in a vertical direction. The bed may be coupled to the flexible drive members. The flexible drive members may comprise a chain. The flexible drive members may move lengthwise in a vertical direction at the same speed as the bed. The first lifting assembly may include a first moving member and a first guide member which defines a channel, the first moving member being coupled to the bed and to the flexible drive member included with the first lifting assembly, the first moving member moving vertically in the channel of the first guide member; and the second lifting assembly may include a second moving member and a second guide member which defines a channel, the second moving member being coupled to the bed and to the flexible drive member included with the second lifting assembly, the second moving member moving vertically in the channel of the second guide member. The flexible drive members may be used to vertically move superposed beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are stowed adjacent to each other.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which move vertically between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and wherein one of the beds is a futon bed. The futon bed may be configured to move between a first seating configuration where the futon bed faces one direction and a second seating configuration where the futon bed faces an opposite direction, and wherein at least two spaced apart portions of the futon bed remain stationary as the futon bed moves between the first seating configuration and the second seating configuration. The futon bed may include a frame which supports the futon bed and a sleeping surface, and wherein the sleeping surface is movable between a first seating configuration where the sleeping surface is used as a seating unit that faces one direction and a second seating configuration where the sleeping surface is used as a seating unit that faces an opposite direction.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which move vertically between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and wherein one of the beds is convertible between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration. The beds may move translationally between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may be a recreational vehicle. The one bed may include a seat back when the one bed is in the seating configuration. The one bed may include a first side and a second side, and wherein the one bed moves between a first seating configuration where the first side forms at least a portion of a seat base and the second side forms at least a portion of a seat back and a second seating configuration where the first side forms at least a portion of a seat back and the second side forms at least a portion of a seat base. The one bed may include a seat base and a seat back when the one bed is in the seating configuration, and wherein the seat base and the seat back are formed from a one-piece cushion unit (or mattress). The one bed may include a one-piece mattress which is used to provide both a seat back and a seat base when the one bed is in the seating configuration. The beds may move vertically between the first configuration, the second configuration, and a third configuration where one of the beds is positioned to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and another one of the beds is stowed. The another one of the beds may be stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and wherein one of the beds moves between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration by pivoting on a longitudinal axis of the one bed. The position of the axis may move in a plane which is perpendicular to the axis as the one bed moves between the sleeping configuration and the seating configuration.
According to another embodiment, a bed comprises: a first side; and a second side; wherein the bed is movable between a sleeping configuration, a first seating configuration where the first side is a seat base and the second side is a seat back, and a second seating configuration where the first side is a seat back and the second side is a seat base. The first side and the second side of the bed may be opposing longitudinal sides of the bed.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and wherein one of the beds includes a first portion and a second portion, at least one of the first portion or the second portion being movable relative to the other of the first portion or the second portion to move the one bed between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration. The first portion may provide a seat base and the second portion may provide a seat back when the one bed is in the seating configuration. The another one of the beds may be positioned in a stowed position when the one bed is in the seating configuration. The another bed may be positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle in the stowed position.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds; a lifting assembly coupled to the structure, the lifting assembly being used to vertically move the beds between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and wherein one of the beds moves between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration by pivoting on a longitudinal axis. The structure may comprise another lifting assembly, the lifting assemblies being used to move the beds between the first configuration and the second configuration.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a first wall; a second wall; and superposed beds which move vertically between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; wherein one of the beds is movable between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration; and wherein the one bed provides a first seating unit positioned adjacent to the first wall and a second seating unit positioned adjacent to the second wall when the one bed is in the seating configuration. A walkway may be provided between the first seating unit and the second seating unit. The structure may be a recreational vehicle and the beds may be coupled between the first wall and the second wall. The first seating unit and the second seating unit each may include a seat base and a seat back. The seat base and the seat back of each of the first seating unit and the second seating unit may be used as part of the bed when the bed is in the sleeping configuration. The seat back and the seat base of each of the first seating unit and the second seating unit may be separate components which are movably coupled together.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a bed which moves vertically between a first configuration where the bed is positioned for sleeping thereon and a second configuration where the bed is stowed; and wherein the bed is convertible between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration using a lockable support member. The bed may move translationally between the first configuration and the second configuration. The structure may be a recreational vehicle. The bed may include a seat back when the bed is in the seating configuration and the lockable support member may be used to support the seat back. The bed may include a first side and a second side, and wherein the bed moves between a first seating configuration where the first side forms at least a portion of a seat base and the second side forms at least a portion of a seat back and a second seating configuration where the first side forms at least a portion of a seat back and the second side forms at least a portion of a seat base. The bed may include a seat base and a seat back when the bed is in the seating configuration, and wherein the seat base and the seat back are formed from a one-piece cushion unit (or mattress). The bed may include a one-piece mattress which is used to provide both a seat back and a seat base when the one bed is in the seating configuration. The lockable support member may be a lockable gas spring. The lockable support member may be locked in at least six different positions. The bed may be stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the structure.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed beds which are vertically movable between a first configuration where the beds are spaced apart and a second configuration where the beds are positioned adjacent to each other; and wherein one of the beds moves between a sleeping configuration and a seating configuration using a lockable gas spring.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: a wall mounted storage unit (or wall mounted unit) which moves vertically and translationally between a raised position and a lowered position. The wall mounted storage unit may be an entertainment center. The structure may be a recreational vehicle. The wall mounted storage unit may include a counter surface which may be used as a counter top in the lowered position. The wall mounted storage unit may include doors. The wall mounted storage unit may be a cabinet. The structure may comprise a lifting assembly coupled to the wall mounted storage unit, the lifting assembly may be used to vertically move the wall mounted storage unit.
According to another embodiment, a structure comprises: superposed wall mounted storage units which move vertically and translationally between a first configuration where the wall mounted storage units are spaced apart and a second configuration where the wall mounted storage units are positioned adjacent to each other. The superposed wall mounted storage units may include an upper wall mounted storage unit and a lower wall mounted storage unit, the lower wall mounted storage unit may include a counter surface.
According to another embodiment, a vehicle comprises: a first bed which moves between a sleeping configuration where the first bed is at least substantially flat to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a seating configuration where the first bed includes a seat base and a seat back to receive one or more persons to sit thereon; and a second bed positioned above the first bed; wherein the first bed and the second bed move vertically and at least substantially translationally between a first configuration where the first bed and the second bed are spaced apart to receive one or more persons thereon and a second configuration where the first bed and the second bed are stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle. The first bed and the second bed may move vertically and at least substantially translationally between the first configuration, the second configuration, and a third configuration where the first bed is positioned to receive one or more persons thereon and the second bed is stowed adjacent to the ceiling of the vehicle. The seating configuration may include a first seating configuration where the first bed faces one direction and a second seating configuration where the first bed faces an opposite direction, the first bed being movable between the first seating configuration and the second seating configuration. The vehicle may be a recreational vehicle. The vehicle may comprise a first wall and a second wall positioned opposite the first wall, wherein the first bed is coupled to the first wall and the second wall in a manner that compensates for variations in width between the first wall and the second wall as the first bed moves vertically.
According to another embodiment, a vehicle comprises: a bed which moves between a sleeping configuration where the bed is at least substantially flat to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a seating configuration where the bed includes a seat base and a seat back to receive one or more persons to sit thereon; wherein the bed moves vertically and at least substantially translationally between a lowered position where the bed is positioned to receive one or more persons thereon and a raised position where the bed is stowed adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle. The bed may include a first side and a second side and the seating configuration may include a first seating configuration where the first side forms at least a portion of the seat base and the second side forms at least a portion of the seat back and a second seating configuration where the first side forms at least a portion of the seat back and the second side forms at least a portion of the seat base, the bed being movable between the first seating configuration and the second seating configuration. The bed may move between the sleeping configuration and the seating configuration by pivoting on an axis which is transverse to the vehicle. The bed may be positioned transverse to the vehicle in the sleeping configuration. The seating configuration may include a first seating configuration where the bed faces one direction and a second seating configuration where the bed faces an opposite direction, the bed being movable between the first seating configuration and the second seating configuration. The bed may be queen size or larger. The vehicle may be a recreational vehicle. The vehicle may be a travel trailer or fifth wheel trailer. The vehicle may comprise a cargo area which is configured to receive an off-road vehicle, the bed being positioned in the cargo area. The vehicle may6 comprise a door which forms a ramp into the vehicle when the door is open. The vehicle may comprise a first wall and a second wall positioned opposite the first wall, wherein the bed is coupled to the first wall and the second wall in a manner that compensates for variations in width between the first wall and the second wall as the bed moves vertically.
According to another embodiment, a vehicle comprises: a bed which moves between a sleeping configuration where the bed is at least substantially flat to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a seating configuration where the bed includes a seat base and a seat back to receive one or more persons to sit thereon; a first wall; and a second wall positioned opposite the first wall; wherein the bed is coupled to the first wall and the second wall and moves vertically and at least substantially translationally between a use position and a stowed position. The bed may be positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle in the stowed position. The bed may be coupled to the first wall and the second wall in a manner that compensates for variations in width between the first wall and the second wall as the bed moves vertically. The vehicle may comprise a cargo area which is configured to receive an off-road vehicle, the bed being positioned in the cargo area. The bed may include a first side and a second side and the seating configuration includes a first seating configuration where the first side forms at least a portion of the seat base and the second side forms at least a portion of the seat back and a second seating configuration where the first side forms at least a portion of the seat back and the second side forms at least a portion of the seat base, the bed being movable between the first seating configuration and the second seating configuration. The vehicle may be a recreational vehicle.
According to another embodiment a vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is configured to receive an off-road vehicle; a bed which moves vertically and at least substantially translationally between a use position where the bed is positioned in the cargo area to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a stowed position; and a seating unit including a seat back and a seat base, the seating unit moving vertically and at least substantially translationally between a use position and a stowed position. The bed may be positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle when the bed is in the stowed position. The seating unit may be positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle when the seating unit is in the stowed position. The bed may move between a sleeping configuration where the bed is at least substantially flat to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a seating configuration where the bed includes a seat base and a seat back to receive one or more persons to sit thereon. The seating unit may move between a sleeping configuration where the seating unit is at least substantially flat to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a seating configuration where the seating unit includes the seat back and the seat base. The seating unit may be in the sleeping configuration when the seating unit moves between the use position and the stowed position. The vehicle may comprise an item which moves vertically and at least substantially translationally between a use position and a stowed position, wherein the item includes an article of furniture, an appliance, a storage unit, and/or a sink. The item may include an entertainment center, television, cupboard, cabinet, shelf, and/or counter.
According to another embodiment, a vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is configured to receive an off-road vehicle; a bed which moves vertically and at least substantially translationally between a use position where the bed is positioned in the cargo area to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a stowed position; and an item which moves vertically and at least substantially translationally between a use position and a stowed position; wherein the item includes an article of furniture, an appliance, a storage unit, and/or a sink. The bed may be positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle when the bed is in the stowed position. The item may be positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle when the item is in the stowed position. The item may include an entertainment center, television, microwave, stove, cupboard, cabinet, shelf, counter, and/or sink. The item may include an entertainment center, television, cupboard, cabinet, shelf, and/or counter. The bed may move between a sleeping configuration where the bed is at least substantially flat to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a seating configuration where the bed includes a seat base and a seat back to receive one or more persons to sit thereon.
According to another embodiment, a vehicle comprises: a cargo area which is configured to receive an off-road vehicle; a seating unit including a seat back and a seat base, the seating unit moving vertically and at least substantially translationally between a use position where the seating unit is positioned in the cargo area to receive one or more persons thereon and a stowed position; and an item which moves vertically and at least substantially translationally between a use position and a stowed position; wherein the item includes an article of furniture, an appliance, a storage unit, and/or a sink. The seating unit may be positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle when the seating unit is in the stowed position. The item may be positioned adjacent to a ceiling of the vehicle when the item is in the stowed position. The item may include an entertainment center, television, microwave, stove, cupboard, cabinet, shelf, counter, and/or sink. The item may include an entertainment center, television, cupboard, cabinet, shelf, and/or counter. The seating unit may move between a sleeping configuration where the seating unit is at least substantially flat to receive one or more persons to sleep thereon and a seating configuration where the seating unit includes the seat back and the seat base.
The terms recited in the claims should be given their ordinary and customary meaning as determined by reference to relevant entries (e.g., definition of “plane” as a carpenter's tool would not be relevant to the use of the term “plane” when used to refer to an airplane, etc.) in dictionaries (e.g., consensus definitions from widely used general reference dictionaries and/or relevant technical dictionaries), commonly understood meanings by those in the art, etc., with the understanding that the broadest meaning imparted by any one or combination of these sources should be given to the claim terms (e.g., two or more relevant dictionary entries should be combined to provide the broadest meaning of the combination of entries, etc.) subject only to the following exceptions: (a) if a term is used herein in a manner more expansive than its ordinary and customary meaning, the term should be given its ordinary and customary meaning plus the additional expansive meaning, or (b) if a term has been explicitly defined to have a different meaning by reciting the term followed by the phrase “as used herein shall mean” or similar language (e.g., “herein this term means,” “as defined herein,” “for the purposes of this disclosure [the term] shall mean,” etc.). References to specific examples, use of “i.e.,” use of the word “invention,” etc., are not meant to invoke exception (b) or otherwise restrict the scope of the recited claim terms. Accordingly, the subject matter recited in the claims is not coextensive with and should not be interpreted to be coextensive with any particular embodiment, feature, or combination of features shown herein. This is true even if only a single embodiment of the particular feature or combination of features is illustrated and described herein. Thus, the appended claims should be read to be given their broadest interpretation in view of the prior art and the ordinary meaning of the claim terms.
As used herein, spatial or directional terms, such as “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” and the like, relate to the subject matter as it is shown in the drawing FIGS. However, it is to be understood that the subject matter described herein may assume various alternative orientations and, accordingly, such terms are not to be considered as limiting. Furthermore, as used herein (i.e., in the claims and the specification), articles such as “the,” “a,” and “an” can connote the singular or plural. Also, as used herein, the word “or” when used without a preceding “either” (or other similar language indicating that “or” is unequivocally meant to be exclusive—e.g., only one of x or y, etc.) shall be interpreted to be inclusive (e.g., “x or y” means one or both x or y). Likewise, as used herein, the term “and/or” shall also be interpreted to be inclusive (e.g., “x and/or y” means one or both x or y). In situations where “and/or” or “or” are used as a conjunction for a group of three or more items, the group should be interpreted to include one item alone, all of the items together, or any combination or number of the items. Moreover, terms used in the specification and claims such as have, having, include, and including should be construed to be synonymous with the terms comprise and comprising.
Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers or expressions, such as those expressing dimensions, physical characteristics, etc. used in the specification are understood as modified in all instances by the term “about.” At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the claims, each numerical parameter recited in the specification or claims which is modified by the term “about” should at least be construed in light of the number of recited significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Moreover, all ranges disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass any and all subranges subsumed therein. For example, a stated range of 1 to 10 should be considered to include any and all subranges between and inclusive of the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10; that is, all subranges beginning with a minimum value of 1 or more and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less (e.g., 5.5 to 10).
This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/779,849, titled “Strap Bed Lift,” filed on 13 May 2010, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,038,193, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/135,806, titled “Strap Bed Lift,” filed on 9 Jun. 2008, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,744,142, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/422,532, titled “System for Lifting Various Objects in a Vehicle,” filed on 6 Jun. 2006, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,384,093, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/255,165, titled “Bed that Moves Vertically and Converts into a Couch,” filed on 19 Oct. 2005, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,350,850, which is a continuation in part of International Patent Application No. PCT/US2004/025360, titled “System and Method for Moving Objects,” filed on 31 Jul. 2004, published as International Publication No. WO 2005/012156, which claims the benefit of the following applications: (1) U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 60/491,448, titled “Vertical Sliding Mechanisms and Systems,” filed on 31 Jul. 2003; (2) U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 60/492,440, titled “Vertical Sliding Mechanisms and Systems,” filed on 4 Aug. 2003; (3) U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 60/510,270, titled “Vertical Sliding Mechanisms and Systems,” filed on 9 Oct. 2003; (4) U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 60/534,092, titled “Apparatus and Method for Moving Items in a Vehicle,” filed on 2 Jan. 2004; (5) U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 60/544,000, titled “Systems and Methods for Moving Items in a Vehicle,” filed on 12 Feb. 2004; (6) U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 60/560,872, titled “Systems and Methods for Moving Items in a Vehicle,” filed on 9 Apr. 2004; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/255,165 claims the benefit of the following applications under 35 U.S.C. §119(e): (1) U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 60/621,606, titled “System and Method for Moving Objects,” filed on 21 Oct. 2004 and (2) U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 60/639,676, titled “System and Method for Moving Objects,” filed on 27 Dec. 2004; all of foregoing documents are hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60491448 | Jul 2003 | US | |
| 60492440 | Aug 2003 | US | |
| 60510270 | Oct 2003 | US | |
| 60534092 | Jan 2004 | US | |
| 60544000 | Feb 2004 | US | |
| 60560872 | Apr 2004 | US | |
| 60621606 | Oct 2004 | US | |
| 60639676 | Dec 2004 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 12779849 | May 2010 | US |
| Child | 13270046 | US | |
| Parent | 12135806 | Jun 2008 | US |
| Child | 12779849 | US | |
| Parent | 11422532 | Jun 2006 | US |
| Child | 12135806 | US | |
| Parent | 11255165 | Oct 2005 | US |
| Child | 11422532 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | PCT/US04/25360 | Jul 2004 | US |
| Child | 11255165 | US |
