Ascion LLC v. Tempur Sealy - Complaint

Case: 5:17-cv-00403-JMH Doc #: 1 Filed: 06/05/15 Page: 1 of 27 - Page ID#: 1
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

FOR THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF MICHIGAN
ASCION, LLC, :
d/b/a REVERIE :
: Civil Action No: _
Plaintiff, :
:
vs. : COMPLAINT FOR PATENT
: INFRINGEMENT
TEMPUR SEALY INTERNATIONAL, :
INC., (f/k/a TEMPUR-PEDIC : Demand for Jury Trial
INTERNATIONAL, INC.) AND TEMPUR- :
PEDIC MANAGEMENT, LLC :
:
Defendants. :
:
Plaintiff Ascion, LLC, d/b/a Reverie (Reverie), complains against
Defendants Tempur Sealy International, Inc., f/k/a Tempur-Pedic International,
Inc. (Tempur Sealy), and Tempur-Pedic Management, LLC (Tempur
Management) (collectively, Tempur-Pedic or Defendants) as follows:
THE PARTIES
1. Plaintiff Ascion, LLC, d/b/a Reverie (Reverie) is a limited liability
corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Michigan, with
its principal place of business located at 750 Denison Ct., Bloomfield Hills,
Michigan 48302.
2. Reverie is an innovator in bedding technology, particularly adjustable
bed technology. Reverie has made significant investments of funds and employee
time in research and development and in building its innovative intellectual
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property portfolio. Due to its investments and innovative culture, Reverie has been
awarded approximately 46 patents in the bedding field, including the patents
asserted in this litigation.
3. Defendant Tempur Sealy is a corporation organized and existing
under the laws of the state of Delaware, with its principal place of business located
at 1000 Tempur Way, Lexington, Kentucky 40511. Upon information and belief,
Tempur Sealy was formerly known as Tempur-Pedic International, Inc., until it
changed its name in or about 2013 in conjunction with its acquisition of Sealy
Corporation.
4. Defendant Tempur Management is, upon information and belief, a
Delaware limited liability corporation with its principal place of business located at
1000 Tempur Way, Lexington, Kentucky 40511. Tempur Management is, upon
information and belief, a subsidiary of Tempur Sealy.
JURISDICTION AND VENUE

5. This is an action for patent infringement arising under the patent laws
of the United States, Title 35 U.S.C. 1 et seq. This Court has subject matter
jurisdiction over the claims pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 1331, 1332, 1367(a) and
1338(a).
6. This action also involves allegations of breach of confidentiality
agreements under state and common law. This Court has subject matter
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jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C. 1332. The parties are citizens of different states and
the amount in controversy exceeds the sum or value of $75,000. Alternatively, this
Court may hear the state and common law claims under the doctrine of
supplemental jurisdiction, 28 U.S.C. 1367(a), because these claims arise from the
same core of facts or related facts and circumstances.
7. Tempur Sealy is a global bedding company with extensive operations
in the United States. Tempur Sealy directly and through its distributors and other
intermediaries makes, uses, sells, imports in the United States, and/or imports into
the United States, various bedding products, including adjustable beds and
foundations, remote controls for adjustable beds, software for touch screen remote
controls, and related products, including the products accused of infringement in
this case.
8. Tempur Sealy and Tempur Management have availed themselves of
the benefits and privileges of conducting business in the State of Michigan, and the
exercise of jurisdiction over them would not offend traditional notions of fair play
and substantial justice. For example, Tempur Sealy markets and sells products in
Michigan, including the products accused of patent infringement and products that
result from breach of confidentiality agreements with Reverie. Tempur Sealy also
operates or does substantial business with elite retailers and authorized
retailers who sell Tempur Sealy bedding products in Michigan, including products
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alleged to infringe Reveries patents. Tempur Sealy and Tempur Management
have also entered into contracts with Reverie.
9. Venue is proper in this District pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 1391 and
1400(b). Tempur Sealy and Tempur Management have committed, and are
continuing to commit, acts of patent infringement and breach of contract in this
District; Tempur Sealy maintains regular business operations in this District; and
Tempur Sealy is subject to personal jurisdiction in this district.
REVERIES PATENTS
10. This action arises out of Defendants infringement of seven patents
owned by Reverie.
11. On March 25, 2014, United States Patent No. 8,682,457 (the 457
Patent), entitled Wireless Control of an Adjustable Bed, was duly and legally
issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The 457 Patent has
been duly and legally assigned to Reverie. A true and correct copy of the 457
Patent is attached as Exhibit A.
12. On December 9, 2014, United States Patent No. 8,909,357 (the 357
Patent), entitled System for Tandem Bed Communication, was duly and legally
Patent is attached as Exhibit B.
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13. On October 25, 2011, United States Patent No. 8,046,116 (the 116
Patent), entitled Controlling an Adjustable Bed and a Second System With a
Modular Controller, was duly and legally issued by the United States Patent and
Trademark Office. The 116 Patent has been duly and legally assigned to Reverie.
A true and correct copy of the 116 Patent is attached as Exhibit C.
14. On October 22, 2013, United States Patent No. 8,565,934 (the 934
Patent), entitled Touch Screen Control of an Adjustable Bed, was duly and
legally issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The 934 Patent
has been duly and legally assigned to Reverie. A true and correct copy of the 934
Patent is attached as Exhibit D.
15. On June 2, 2015, United States Patent No. 9,044,366 (the 366
Patent), entitled Adjustable Mattress Support Facility, was duly and legally
Patent is attached as Exhibit E.
16. On June 2, 2015, United States Patent No. 8,869,328 (the 328
Patent), entitled System of Two-Way Communication in an Adjustable Bed with
Memory, was duly and legally issued by the United States Patent and Trademark
Office. The 328 Patent has been duly and legally assigned to Reverie. A true and
correct copy of the 328 Patent is attached as Exhibit F.
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17. On January 6, 2015, United States Design Patent No. D720,553 (the
D553 Patent), entitled Adjustable Bed, was duly and legally issued by the
United States Patent and Trademark Office. The D533 Patent has been duly and
legally assigned to Reverie. A true and correct copy of the D553 Patent is attached
as Exhibit G.
18. Reverie is the owner of the 457, 116, 357, 934, 366, 328, and
D553 Patents (Reverie Patents) with the full and exclusive right to bring suit to
enforce the Reverie Patents.
19. The Reverie Patents are presumed to be valid and enforceable under
35 U.S.C. 282.
20. Tempur Sealy and Tempur Management have actual and constructive
knowledge of the Reverie Patents. Reverie marks its products embodying the
patented features in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 287(a), thus giving Defendants
constructive notice. In addition, Reverie gave actual notice to Defendants in
communications with Defendants, including but not limited to an email dated June
3, 2015, and a meeting at Tempur Sealys offices in Kentucky on June 4, 2015.
REVERIES PATENTED PRODUCTS
21. Reverie manufactures and sells a number of bedding products,
including mattresses, foundations, and adjustable beds that embody one or more
inventions claimed in Reveries numerous patents.
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22. Among the Reverie products that embody Reveries patented
technology are, for example, the Deluxe, Reverie 3E, Reverie 5D, Reverie
7S, Reverie 8Q, and the Serta Pivot, as well as several others. Exemplary
patented products are depicted below.
23. Reveries bedding products compete in the marketplace with Tempur
Sealys bedding products, including those products now accused of infringement
and especially adjustable bedding products.
THE ALLEGED PATENT INFRINGEMENT
24. Defendants design, make, import, use, sell, and/or offer for sale a
wide range of bedding products, including adjustable bed products, foundations,
remote controls, and adjustable bed software, including but not limited to the
TEMPUR-Ergo Premier, TEMPUR-Ergo Grand, Ergo Link, TEMPUR-Ergo
Grand Wireless Remote, TEMPUR-Ergo Premier Wireless Remote, TEMPUR-
Ergo Smart Control App, TEMPUR-Up Foundation, TEMPUR-Ergo Plus
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Adjustable Base, Sealy Reflexion Up Foundation and other adjustable bed products
and remote controls that incorporate similar features and functionality.
25. As alleged herein, Defendants have engaged in actions that directly
and indirectly infringe the Reverie Patents.
26. For one or more of the Reverie Patents, Defendants have directly
infringed under 35 U.S.C. 271(a) by making, using, selling, offering to sell,
and/or importing infringing products into the United States.
27. For one or more of the Reverie Patents, Defendants are actively
inducing infringement under 35 U.S.C. 271(b) by encouraging acts of direct
infringement, when Defendants know (or believe there is a high probability, but
are taking deliberate steps to avoid knowing) that they are inducing direct
infringement. Defendants acts of encouragement include but are not limited to (a)
making, selling, offering for sale, importing, and/or encouraging the use of Tempur
Sealy adjustable beds, and (b) encouraging and/or instructing third parties on how
to download and use the TEMPUR-Ergo Smart Control App on touch screen
devices operating the Apple iOS and Android operating systems.
28. For one or more of the Reverie Patents, Defendants have
contributorily infringed under 35 U.S.C. 271(c) by selling or offering to sell
within, or importing into, the United States a component of a patented machine,
manufacture, combination, or composition, or a material or apparatus for use in
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practicing a patented process, constituting a material part of the claimed
invention(s), knowing the same to be specially made or adapted for an infringing
use, and not a staple article or commodity of commerce suitable for substantial
noninfringing use.
29. Exemplary claim charts showing infringement by representative
products of one or more representative claims of each of the Reverie Patents are
attached as Exhibit H. These claim charts are based on preliminary analysis and
may be amended or supplemented after further investigation and discovery in this
action. The claim charts are for notice purposes under Fed. R. Civ. P. 8 and 12.
30. In addition, as the side-by-side comparison shown below reveals,
Defendants have infringed Reveries patented adjustable bed base design (subject
of the D533 Patent) through their manufacture, use, offers to sell, and sale of
various products, including the Tempur-Ergo Plus Adjustable Base depicted below.
D553 Patent Tempur-Ergo Plus Adjustable Base
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31. As seen in the allegations below, during meetings with Reverie in
which the parties were, ostensibly, working toward a joint development
relationship or other business relationship, Reverie showed Defendants its
innovative products and prototypes under development and told Defendants about
its patents and pending patent applications. Tempur Sealy and Tempur
Management learned about Reveries innovations in adjustable bed technology
and, despite entering into strict non-disclosure/confidentiality agreements, used the
proprietary and confidential information they had learned from Reverie to
introduce competing products based on the patented technology that Reverie
developed.
BREACH OF CONFIDENTIALITY OBLIGATIONS

32. From about 2006 through about late 2013 or early 2014, Reverie and
Tempur Sealy maintained a business relationship. During this time, Reverie
supplied Tempur Sealy with various products, components, parts, and technology.
During the course of this business relationship, Tempur-Pedic became aware of
Reveries innovative products, capabilities, confidential information, technical
specifications and designs, and burgeoning patent portfolio.
33. In or around 2005, Martin Rawls-Meehan, Chief Executive Officer of
Reverie and inventor of the Reverie Patents, contacted Tempur Sealy about the
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possibility of entering a business arrangement under which Reverie would supply
components to Tempur Sealy and assist in developing adjustable bed foundations.
34. In or around 2009, the parties entered into a confidentiality agreement,
and Reverie shared with Defendants confidential information under that
agreement. On or around December 14, 2012, Reverie and Tempur Sealy entered
into a second confidentiality agreement, entitled Mutual Confidential Disclosure
Agreement (2012 MCDA). The 2012 MCDA obliges the parties to not use or
disclose confidential information, including proprietary inventions and designs,
proprietary technical data, patent applications, know-how, technical and
engineering data, drawings, schematics, blueprints and trade secrets. Furthermore,
the 2012 MCDA prohibited the parties from copying, reproducing, reverse
engineering, or designing around products and confidential information disclosed
during the relationship. A true and correct copy of the 2012 MCDA is attached as
Exhibit I.
35. Also, on or around December 14, 2012, Reverie and Tempur Sealys
Tempur Management subsidiary entered into a Letter of Intent (LOI) related to
Reveries manufacturing and supplying to Tempur Sealy new adjustable
foundations. The LOI stated that the parties obligations under the 2012 Mutual
Confidentiality Agreement would survive following the conclusion of negotiations
between the parties.
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36. During the course of the relationship with Tempur Sealy, and under
the confidentiality agreements, Mr. Rawls-Meehan and other Reverie employees
discussed with Tempur Sealy confidential information related to designs, concepts,
manufacturing details, and costs associated with adjustable bed technology. For
example, Mr. Rawls-Meehan discussed with Tempur Sealy a new product concept
for a head-up only foundation. Mr. Rawls-Meehan offered that Reverie would
manufacture and supply said product to Tempur Sealy.
37. Reverie also discussed with Defendants other new product concepts
for various adjustable bed related technologies, including, for example, wireless
remote controls, touchscreen remote controls, and smartphone application remote
controls. Indeed, Reverie shared with Tempur Sealy confidential presentations
showing touch screen applications (e.g., for use with Apple iPhones, iPads, iPods,
Android mobile devices, and similar equipment) for controlling adjustable beds,
and Tempur Sealy later introduced such products. The communications included
manufacturing details and schematics for such products. Mr. Rawls-Meehan
offered that Reverie would manufacture and supply such products and/or software
to Tempur Sealy.
38. Reverie also shared proprietary designs and schematics for adjustable
bed foundations, cost and supplier information, and other confidential business and
technical information that gave Defendants a competitive advantage.
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39. As one example, Reverie shared with Tempur Sealy and Tempur
Management in late 2012 or early 2013, under the confidentiality obligations of the
parties agreements, design schematics and 3-D models for a new lift arm for use
in adjustable bed foundations. Reverie offered to manufacture the component for
Tempur Sealy. Tempur Sealy did not accept the offer, but now includes a lift arm
of the same design in its products.
40. In late 2013 or early 2014, Tempur Sealy terminated its business
relationship with Reverie.
41. On information and belief, Defendants improperly reverse engineered
and/or copied product concepts, designs, schematics, and other confidential
information that Reverie disclosed in connection with the confidentiality
agreements. On information and belief, Defendants make, use, offer for sale, and
sell products that copy or are made according to Reveries products, product
concepts, and/or confidential designs and processes.
42. On information and belief, Tempur Sealy improperly disclosed
Reveries confidential information to its suppliers in violation of the confidentiality
agreements. On information and belief, Tempur Sealys suppliers used Reveries
confidential information to manufacture components, bed foundations, and the like
for Tempur Sealy.
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COUNT ONE
Infringement of the 457 Patent
43. Plaintiff repeats and re-alleges the allegations of paragraphs 1-42
above as if fully set forth herein.
44. Defendants have infringed and continue to infringe, literally and/or
under the doctrine of equivalents, one or more claims of the 457 Patent, including
but not limited to representative Claim 20 (as exemplified in the attached
preliminary claim chart), directly and/or indirectly, in violation of 35 U.S.C. 271,
by making, using, selling, offering to sell and/or importing adjustable bed
productsincluding but not limited to the Tempur Ergo Premier and Tempur-Ergo
Grandin the United States (and/or by contributing to and/or inducing these acts).
45. Defendants have actual and constructive notice of the 457 Patent at
least by virtue of communications between Defendants and Reverie and because
Reverie has marked its products in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 287(a).
46. On information and belief, Reverie alleges that Defendants
infringement of the 457 Patent has been and continues to be intentional and
willful. As alleged above, Reverie disclosed its patents and technology to
Defendants under confidentiality obligations but Defendants misappropriated the
technology and their knowledge of Reveries patents to compete with Reverie. At
the very least, and upon information and belief, Defendants introduced its
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competing products with reckless indifference as to whether the products infringed
Reveries patents.
47. Reverie has sustained damages as a direct and proximate result of
Defendants infringement of the 457 Patent.
48. Reverie will suffer and is suffering irreparable harm from Defendants
infringement of the 457 Patent. Reverie has no adequate remedy at law and is
entitled to an injunction against Defendants continuing infringement of the 457
Patent. Unless enjoined, Defendants will continue their infringement.
COUNT TWO
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willful.
COUNT THREE
56. Defendants have infringed and continues to infringe, literally and/or
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willful.
COUNT FOUR
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64. On information and belief, Defendants actions as alleged herein have
actively induced and/or are continuing to actively induce infringement of the 934
Patent by encouraging acts of direct infringement, and Defendants know (or
believe there is a high probability, but are taking deliberate steps to avoid
knowing) that they are inducing direct infringement by (a) making, using, selling,
offering to sell and/or importing adjustable bed productsincluding but not
limited to the Tempur Ergo Premier and Tempur-Ergo Grand and (b) selling,
supplying, encouraging, supporting, providing for download, and instructing users
on how to install and use the Tempur-Ergo Smart Control App for use on Apple
iOS and Android touch screen devices, with the intent that these products be used
by such third party users and entities to infringe the 934 Patent.
65. For example, Defendants product literature for the Tempur-Ergo
Premier and Tempur-Ergo Grand products, including the product manuals,
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encourages and instructs Tempur Sealys users on how to download and configure
the Tempur-Ergo Smart Control App for use on touch screen devices. Defendants
are therefore aware that their customers and other third parties are infringing the
934 Patent.
willful.
COUNT FIVE
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productsincluding but not limited to the Tempur Up Foundation and Sealy
Reflexion Up Foundationin the United States (and/or by contributing to and/or
inducing these acts).
willful.
COUNT SIX
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78. On information and belief, Defendants actions as alleged herein have
actively induced and/or are continuing to actively induce infringement of the 328
Patent by encouraging acts of direct infringement, and Defendants know (or
believe there is a high probability, but are taking deliberate steps to avoid
knowing) that they are inducing direct infringement by (a) making, using, selling,
offering to sell and/or importing adjustable bed productsincluding but not
limited to the Tempur Ergo Premier and Tempur-Ergo Grand and (b) selling,
supplying, encouraging, supporting, providing for download, and instructing users
on how to install and use the Tempur-Ergo Smart Control App for use on Apple
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iOS and Android touch screen devices, with the intent that these products be used
by such third party users and entities to infringe the 328 Patent.
79. For example, Defendants product literature for the Tempur-Ergo
Premier and Tempur-Ergo Grand products, including the product manuals,
encourages and instructs Tempur Sealys users on how to download and configure
the Tempur-Ergo Smart Control App for use on touch screen devices. Defendants
are therefore aware that their customers and other third parties are infringing the
328 Patent.
willful.
COUNT SEVEN
Infringement of the D553 Patent
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under the doctrine of equivalents, the claim of the D553 Patent, directly and/or
indirectly, in violation of 35 U.S.C. 271, by making, using, selling, offering to
sell and/or importing adjustable bed productsincluding but not limited to the
Tempur-Ergo Plus Adjustable Basein the United States (and/or by contributing
to and/or inducing these acts).
85. Defendants have actual and constructive notice of the D553 Patent at
infringement of the D553 Patent has been and continues to be intentional and
willful.
Defendants infringement of the D553 Patent.
infringement of the D553 Patent. Reverie has no adequate remedy at law and is
entitled to an injunction against Defendants continuing infringement of the D553
COUNT EIGHT
Breach of Confidentiality Agreements
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90. Pursuant to the terms of the 2009 and 2012 confidentiality agreements
referenced above, Reverie provided Tempur Sealy with confidential information,
including technical specifications, product designs, manufacturing and cost
information, and product concepts regarding Reveries adjustable bed technology,
including, for example, foundations, software, remote controls, and components.
91. Pursuant to the terms of the confidentiality agreements, Tempur Sealy
was required to hold Reveries confidential information in confidence, not to use it,
or disclose it. For example, the 2012 MCDA prohibited the parties from copying,
reproducing, reverse engineering, or designing around products and confidential
information disclosed following the agreement.
92. Under the LOI, the same terms of the 2012 MCDA were applied to
Tempur Management.
93. Reverie met all of its obligations under the agreements.
94. Defendants, in breach of the agreements, used the information
provided by Reverie for their own benefit for purposes directly prohibited by the
terms of the agreements. Specifically, Defendants used Reveries confidential
information to create their own products nearly identical to Reveries, including,
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for example, remote controls, remote control applications and software, controllers,
and adjustable bed foundations.
DAMAGES
95. Reverie has suffered, is suffering, and unless restrained by the Court,
will continue to suffer injury to its business and property rights as a result of
Tempur Sealys patent infringement, for which it is entitled to damages pursuant to
35 U.S.C. 284-285, 289 in an amount to be proven at trial.
will continue to suffer injury to its business and property rights as a result of
Tempur Sealys breach of contract, for which it is entitled to damages.
INJUNCTION
will continue to suffer irreparable harm for which there is no adequate remedy at
law, as a result of Tempur Sealys patent infringement, for which it is entitled to
permanent injunctive relief pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 283.
98. Likewise, Reverie has suffered, is suffering, and unless restrained by
the Court, will continue to suffer irreparable harm for which there is no adequate
remedy at law, as a result of Tempur Sealys breach of contract, for which it is
entitled to permanent injunctive relief.
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PRAYER FOR RELIEF
WHEREFORE, Plaintiff Reverie requests that the Court enter judgment in

its favor and against Defendants as follows:
a. Declare that Defendants have infringed one or more claims of the
Reverie Patents;
b. Enter preliminary and permanent injunctions prohibiting Tempur
Sealy, its subsidiaries, segments, divisions, agents, employees, and all
parties who are in privity with Tempur Sealy and/or any of the
foregoing from infringing, contributing to the infringement of, and/or
inducing infringement of one or more of the Reverie Patents in Suit,
and for all further proper injunctive relief;
c. Award to Reverie damages, including treble damages based on any
finding of willfulness, for Defendants infringement, with pre-
judgment and post-judgment interest pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 284-
285;
d. Award to Reverie Defendants total profit for design patent
infringement pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 289;
e. Find this an exceptional case and award fees under 35 U.S.C. 285;
f. Award to Reverie damages for Defendants breach of the
confidentiality agreements, and;
g. Grant any and all such further relief as the Court deems just and
proper.
DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL
Pursuant to Fed. R. Civ. P. 38(b) and Local Rule 9.1, Plaintiff Reverie
demands a trial by jury on all issues so triable.
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MANTESE HONIGMAN, P.C.

Attorneys for Plaintiff,
ASCION, LLC
By: s/David Honigman

DAVE HONIGMAN (Mich. P33146)
dhonigman@manteselaw.com
KRISTA M. HOSMER (Mich. P68939)
khosmer@manteselaw.com
MANTESE HONIGMAN, P.C.
1361 E. Big Beaver Rd.
Troy, MI 48083
Telephone 248.457.9200
Facsimile 248.457.9201
ERIK PAUL BELT (Mass. BBO #558620)

ebelt@mccarter.com
BRIAN J. LARIVEE (Mass. BBO #673928)
blarivee@mccarter.com
applications for admission forthcoming
MCCARTER & ENGLISH, LLP
265 Franklin Street
Boston, MA 02110-3113
Telephone 617.449.6500
Facsimile 617.607.9200
Attorneys for Plaintiff,
ASCION, LLC, d/b/a Reverie
Date: June 5, 2015
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Case: 5:17-cv-00403-JMH Doc #: 1-1 Filed: 06/05/15 Page: 1 of 1 - Page ID#: 28
INDEX OF EXHIBITS
Exhibit A 457 Patent
Exhibit B 357 Patent
Exhibit C 116 Patent
Exhibit D 934 Patent
Exhibit E 366 Patent
Exhibit F 328 Patent
Exhibit G D533 Patent
Exhibit H Claim Charts
Exhibit I 2012 MCDA

EXHIBIT A
111111 1111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111
US008682457B2
(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 8,682,457 B2

Rawls-Meehan (45) Date of Patent: *Mar. 25, 2014
(54) WIRELESS CONTROL OF AN ADJUSTABLE 2,147,538 A 2/1939 Maguire et al.

BED D135,417 S 4/1943 Smith
2,644,961 A 7/1953 Hillenbrand et al.
2,996,732 A 8/1961 Draper
(76) Inventor: Martin B. Rawls-Meehan, Lexington, 3,113,567 A 12/1963 Russell
MA(US) 3,611,453 A 10/1971 Lokken
3,644,946 A 2/1972 Swart
( *) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 3,737,926 A 6/1973 Hermanson
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 (Continued)
U.S.c. 154(b) by 35 days.
This patent is subject to a tenninal dis- FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
claimer. CN 1466925 112004
CN 1482881 A 3/2004
(21) Appl. No.: 131205,784
(Continued)
(22) Filed: Aug. 9, 2011
OTHER PUBLICATIONS
(65) Prior Publication Data
U.S. Appl. No. 12/328,728 NOA, Jul. 1,2011, U.S. Appl. No.121
US 201110291795 Al Dec. 1,2011 328,728 Jul. 1,2011 , all.
Related U.S. Application Data (Continued)

(63) Continuation of application No. 111875,866, filed on
Oct. 20, 2007, now Pat. No. 8,046,117, which is a Primary Examiner - Kavita Padmanabhan
continuation of application No. 111855,354, filed on Assistant Examiner - Douglas S. Lee
Sep. 14,2007.
(74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm - GTC Law Group LLP and
(60) Provisional application No. 60/825,607, filed on Sep. Affiliates
14,2006.
(51) Int. Cl. (57) ABSTRACT

G05B 13/00 (2006.01)
(52) U.S. Cl. Aspects of this invention relate to an adjustable bed that may
USPC .............................. 700/66; 700/275; 700/302 include one or more articulating portions, and may include
(58) Field of Classification Search one or more components, including an air inflatable mattress
USPC ............ 700/13,64,66,302; 5/600, 613, 616; associated with the adjustable bed frame, a programmable
318116; 340/573 logic controller, a remote memory storage facility, a remote
See application file for complete search history. storage location of user preferences, a cell phone remote
control, a modular control device, an air purification facility,
(56) References Cited a power outlet controller, a Bluetooth remote control, an ultra
wide band remote control, a wireless USB remote control,
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
and the like.
399,254 A 311889 Foster
1,259,650 A 311918 Mcintyre
1,371,098 A 311921 Jones 27 Claims, 9 Drawing Sheets
104
120
128
132
US 8,682,457 B2
Page 2
(56) References Cited 6,784,797 B2 8/2004 Smith et al.

6,885,362 B2 4/2005 Suomela
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u.s. Patent Mar. 25, 2014 Sheet 6 of 9 US 8,682,457 B2

Sheet 7 of9
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u.s. Patent Mar. 25,2014
US 8,682,457 B2
u.s. Patent Mar. 25,2014 Sheet 8 of9
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u.s. Patent Mar. 25, 2014 Sheet 9 of 9 US 8,682,457 B2

US 8,682,457 B2
1 2
WIRELESS CONTROL OF AN ADJUSTABLE may include one or more components, including an air inflat-
BED able mattress associated with the adjustable bed frame, a
programmable logic controller, a remote memory storage
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED facility, a remote storage location of user preferences, a cell
APPLICATIONS phone remote control, a modular control device, an air puri-
fication facility, a power outlet controller, a Bluetooth remote
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent applica- control, an ultra wide band remote control, a wireless USB
tion Ser. No. 111875,866 filed Oct. 20, 2007, which is a remote control, and the like
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 111855,354 An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
filed Sep. 14, 2007, which claims the benefit of the U.S. 10
that may include one or more articulating portions, including
Provisional. App. No. 60/825,607 filed on Sep. 14,2006. an air inflatable mattress associated with the adjustable bed
In an embodiment, the adjustable bed systems and methods frame, where the air adjustable mattress may be associated
described herein could be used in combination with the sys- with an air pump to regulate the air pressure in the air inflat-
tems and methods disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Appli-
15 able mattress, the air inflatable mattress may include flex
cation No. 60/823,891 filed on Aug. 29, 2006, and incorpo-
regions about which the air inflatable mattress can flex, a
rated by reference herein.
programmable logic controller (PLC) may be associated with
BACKGROUND the adjustable bed frame adapted to control at least one adjust-
able aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like.
1. Field 20 An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
This invention relates to an adjustable bed. that may include one or more articulating portions, including
2. Background an air inflatable mattress associated with the adjustable bed
Adjustable beds may contain at least one section of which frame, where the air adjustable mattress may be associated
a user may control the position. The user may typically adjust with an air pump to regulate the air pressure in the air inflat-
the bed by using a control to move the adjustable section in its 25 able mattress, the air inflatable mattress may include flex
direction of movement. Additionally, the adjustable bed may regions about which the air inflatable mattress may flex, a
include various types of mattresses and vibration of sections. remote memory storage facility may be adapted to be remove-
Often, users that have adjustable beds because a medical issue ably and replaceably connected to an adjustable bed frame
may require certain positions to aid recovery, positioning to controller associated with the adjustable bed frame, the
relieve discomfort as a result of pain, or the like. These users 30 remote memory may include information relating to at least
may, because of these issues, spend significant amount of one operational parameter related to control of the adjustable
time in the adjustable beds, some users may be confined to bed, and the like.
bed. An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
Many existing adjustable beds may provide the basic that may include one or more articulating portions, including
requirements of moving bed sections to positions that are 35 an air inflatable mattress associated with the adjustable bed
required by a user, but do not account for controlling other frame, where the air adjustable mattress may be associated
devices that may be beneficial to the user and provide for a with an air pump to regulate the air pressure in the air inflat-
level of independence to the user. able mattress, the air inflatable mattress may include flex
A typical adjustable bed may consist of a wood decking for regions about which the air inflatable mattress may flex, a
each of the sections of the bed connected together with hinges 40 remote storage location of user preferences, where the user
to allow the various positions between the sections. There are preferences may represent recall parameters relating to one or
actuators connected between the bed frame and the wood more adjustable aspects of the adjustable bed, and the like.
decking for moving the adjustable sections into user-desired An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
positions. The adjustable bed may have a "wall hugging" that may include one or more articulating portions, including
feature that maintains a consistent distance between the mat- 45 an air inflatable mattress associated with the adjustable bed
tress and the wall as the bed is adjusted. Some adjustable beds frame, where the air adjustable mattress may be associated
may use wooden or plastic slats to support the mattress with an air pump to regulate the air pressure in the air inflat-
instead of a solid wood platform. able mattress, the air inflatable mattress may flex regions
The adjustable bed may have at least one actuator to posi- about which the air inflatable mattress can flex, a cell phone
tion the adjustable bed sections. In some cases there is one 50 remote control may be adapted to control at least one adjust-
actuator to position more than one, such as positioning both able aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like.
the thigh and foot sections with one actuator. There may also An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
be more than one actuator for each adjustable section. that may include one or more articulating portions, including
Hospitals have used adjustable beds for many years to an air inflatable mattress associated with the adjustable bed
provide comfortable and medical required positions. 55 frame, where the air adjustable mattress may be associated
A need exists for an adjustable bed that provides for the with an air pump to regulate the air pressure in the air inflat-
adjustable function required in an adjustable bed and pro- able mattress, the air inflatable mattress may include flex
vides for control of additional devices, a plurality of different regions about which the air inflatable mattress may flex, a
bed section actuator types and movable memory types that modular control device, where the modular control device
may provide independent activities to the user of the adjust- 60 may be adapted to control at least one aspect of the adjustable
able bed. bed, and the like.
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
SUMMARY that may include one or more articulating portions, including
an air inflatable mattress associated with the adjustable bed
Provided herein are methods and systems for an adjustable 65 frame, where the air adjustable mattress may be associated
bed facility. Aspects of this invention relate to an adjustable with an air pump to regulate the air pressure in the air inflat-
bed that may include one or more articulating portions, and able mattress, the air inflatable mattress may include flex
US 8,682,457 B2
3 4
regions about which the air inflatable mattress may flex, an air An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
purification facility associated with the adjustable bed, and that may include one or more articulating portions, including
the like. a programmable logic controller (PLC) associated with the
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed adjustable bed frame that may be adapted to control at least
that may include one or more articulating portions, including one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, a modular control
an air inflatable mattress associated with the adjustable bed device, where the modular control device may be adapted to
frame, where the air adjustable mattress may be associated control at least one aspect of the adjustable bed by commu-
with an air pump to regulate the air pressure in the air inflat- nicating with the PLC, and the like.
able mattress, the air inflatable mattress may include flex An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
regions about which the air inflatable mattress may flex, a
10 that may include one or more articulating portions, including
power outlet controller may be adapted to control at least one
a programmable logic controller (PLC) associated with the
parameter of a power outlet associated with the adjustable
adjustable bed frame that may be adapted to control at least
bed, and the like.
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, an air purification
that may include one or more articulating portions, including 15 facility that may be associated with the adjustable bed, and
an air inflatable mattress associated with the adjustable bed the like.
frame, where the air adjustable mattress may be associated An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
with an air pump to regulate the air pressure in the air inflat- that may include one or more articulating portions, including
able mattress, the air inflatable mattress may include flex a programmable logic controller (PLC) associated with the
regions about which the air inflatable mattress may flex, a 20 adjustable bed frame that may be adapted to control at least
Bluetooth remote control may be adapted to control at least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, a power outlet
one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like. controller that may be adapted to control at least one param-
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed eter of a power outlet associated with the adjustable bed by
that may include one or more articulating portions, including communicating with the PLC, and the like.
an air inflatable mattress associated with the adjustable bed 25 An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
frame, where the air adjustable mattress may be associated that may include one or more articulating portions, including
with an air pump to regulate the air pressure in the air inflat- a programmable logic controller (PLC) associated with the
able mattress, the air inflatable mattress may include flex adjustable bed frame that may be adapted to control at least
regions about which the air inflatable mattress may flex; an one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, a Bluetooth
ultra wide band (UWB) remote control adapted to control at 30
remote control that may be adapted to control at least one
least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like.
adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed by communicating
with the PLC, and the like.
an air inflatable mattress associated with the adjustable bed
frame, where the air adjustable mattress may be associated 35
with an air pump to regulate the air pressure in the air inflat- a programmable logic controller (PLC) associated with the
able mattress, the air inflatable mattress may include flex adjustable bed frame that may be adapted to control at least
regions about which the air inflatable mattress may flex, a one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, an ultra wide band
wireless USB remote control adapted to control at least one (UWB) remote control that may be adapted to control at least
adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like. 40 one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed by communicating
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed with the PLC, and the like.
that may include one or more articulating portions, including An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
a programmable logic controller (PLC) associated with the that may include one or more articulating portions, including
adjustable bed frame that may be adapted to control at least a programmable logic controller (PLC) associated with the
one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, a remote memory 45 adjustable bed frame that may be adapted to control at least
storage facility that may be adapted to be removeably and one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, a wireless USB
replaceably connected to the PLC, where the remote memory remote control that may be adapted to control at least one
may include information relating to at least one operational adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed by communicating
parameter related to control of the adjustable bed, and the with the PLC, and the like.
like. 50 An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed that may include one or more articulating portions, including
that may include one or more articulating portions, including a remote memory storage facility that may be adapted to be
a programmable logic controller (PLC) associated with the removeably and replaceably connected to an adjustable bed
adjustable bed frame that may be adapted to control at least frame controller associated with the adjustable bed frame,
one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, a remote storage 55 where the remote memory may include information relating
location of user preferences, where the user preferences may to at least one operational parameter related to control of the
represent recall parameters accessible by the PLC relating to adjustable bed. In addition, the remote memory storage facil-
one or more adjustable aspects of the adjustable bed, and the ity may store user preferences, the user preferences may
like. represent recall parameters relating to one or more adjustable
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed 60 aspects of the adjustable bed, and the like.
a programmable logic controller (PLC) associated with the that may include one or more articulating portions, including
adjustable bed frame that may be adapted to control at least a remote memory storage facility that may be adapted to be
one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, a cell phone removeably and replaceably connected to an adjustable bed
remote control that may be adapted to control at least one 65 frame controller associated with the adjustable bed frame,
adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed by communicating where the remote memory may includes information relating
with the PLC, and the like. to at least one operational parameter related to control of the
US 8,682,457 B2
5 6
adjustable bed, a cell phone remote control that may be remote control adapted to control at least one adjustable
adapted to control at least one adjustable aspect of the adjust- aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like.
able bed, and the like. An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
that may include one or more articulating portions, including a remote storage location of user preferences, where the user
a remote memory storage facility that may be adapted to be preferences may represent recall parameters relating to one or
removeably and replaceably connected to an adjustable bed more adjustable aspects of the adjustable bed, a modular
frame controller associated with the adjustable bed frame, control device, where the modular control device may be
where the remote memory may includes information relating adapted to control at least one aspect of the adjustable bed,
to at least one operational parameter related to control of the 10 and the like.
adjustable bed, a modular control device, where the modular An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
control device may be adapted to control at least one aspect of that may include one or more articulating portions, including
the adjustable bed, and the like. a remote storage location of user preferences, where the user
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed preferences may represent recall parameters relating to one or
that may include one or more articulating portions, including 15 more adjustable aspects of the adjustable bed, an air purifi-
a remote memory storage facility that may be adapted to be cation facility associated with the adjustable bed, and the like.
removeably and replaceably connected to an adjustable bed An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
frame controller associated with the adjustable bed frame, that may include one or more articulating portions, including
where the remote memory may include information relating a remote storage location of user preferences, where the user
to at least one operational parameter related to control of the 20 preferences may represent recall parameters relating to one or
adjustable bed, an air purification facility associated with the more adjustable aspects of the adjustable bed, a power outlet
adjustable bed, and the like. controller adapted to control at least one parameter of a power
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed outlet associated with the adjustable bed, and the like.
a remote memory storage facility that may be adapted to be 25 that may include one or more articulating portions, including
removeably and replaceably connected to an adjustable bed a remote storage location of user preferences, where the user
frame controller associated with the adjustable bed frame, preferences may represent recall parameters relating to one or
where the remote memory may include information relating more adjustable aspects of the adjustable bed, a Bluetooth
to at least one operational parameter related to control of the remote control adapted to control at least one adjustable
adjustable bed, a power outlet controller adapted to control at 30 aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like.
least one parameter of a power outlet associated with the An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
adjustable bed, and the like. that may include one or more articulating portions, including
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed a remote storage location of user preferences, where the user
that may include one or more articulating portions, including preferences may represent recall parameters relating to one or
a remote memory storage facility that may be adapted to be 35 more adjustable aspects of the adjustable bed, an ultra wide
removeably and replaceably connected to an adjustable bed band (UWB) remote control adapted to control at least one
frame controller associated with the adjustable bed frame, adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like.
where the remote memory may include information relating An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
to at least one operational parameter related to control of the that may include one or more articulating portions, including
adjustable bed, a Bluetooth remote control adapted to control 40 a remote storage location of user preferences, where the user
at least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the preferences may represent recall parameters relating to one or
like. more adjustable aspects of the adjustable bed, a wireless USB
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed remote control adapted to control at least one adjustable
that may include one or more articulating portions, including aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like.
a remote memory storage facility that may be adapted to be 45 An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
removeably and replaceably connected to an adjustable bed that may include one or more articulating portions, including
frame controller associated with the adjustable bed frame, a cell phone remote control that may be adapted to control at
where the remote memory may include information relating least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, a modular
to at least one operational parameter related to control of the control device, where the modular control device may be
adjustable bed, an ultra wide band (UWB) remote control 50 adapted to control at least one aspect of the adjustable bed,
adapted to control at least one adjustable aspect of the adjust- and the like.
able bed, and the like. An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
that may include one or more articulating portions, including a cell phone remote control that may be adapted to control at
a remote memory storage facility that may be adapted to be 55 least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, an air puri-
removeably and replaceably connected to an adjustable bed fication facility associated with the adjustable bed, and the
frame controller associated with the adjustable bed frame, like.
where the remote memory may include information relating An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
to at least one operational parameter related to control of the that may include one or more articulating portions, including
adjustable bed, a wireless USB remote control adapted to 60 a cell phone remote control that may be adapted to control at
control at least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, a power
and the like. outlet controller adapted to control at least one parameter of a
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed power outlet associated with the adjustable bed, and the like.
a remote storage location of user preferences, where the user 65 that may include one or more articulating portions, including
preferences may represent recall parameters relating to one or a cell phone remote control that may be adapted to control at
more adjustable aspects of the adjustable bed, a cell phone least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, a Bluetooth
US 8,682,457 B2
7 8
remote control adapted to control at least one adjustable a wireless USB remote control adapted to control at least one
aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like. adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like.
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
that may include one or more articulating portions, including that may include one or more articulating portions, including
a cell phone remote control that may be adapted to control at a power outlet controller that may be adapted to control at
least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, an ultra wide least one parameter of a power outlet associated with the
band (UWB) remote control adapted to control at least one adjustable bed, a Bluetooth remote control adapted to control
adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like. at least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed like.
that may include one or more articulating portions, including 10 An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
a cell phone remote control that may be adapted to control at that may include one or more articulating portions, including
least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, a wireless a power outlet controller that may be adapted to control at
USB remote control adapted to control at least one adjustable least one parameter of a power outlet associated with the
aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like. 15 adjustable bed, an ultra wide band (UWB) remote control
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed adapted to control at least one adjustable aspect of the adjust-
that may include one or more articulating portions, including able bed, and the like.
a modular control device, where the modular control device An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
may be adapted to control at least one aspect of the adjustable that may include one or more articulating portions, including
bed, an air purification facility associated with the adjustable 20 a power outlet controller that may be adapted to control at
bed, and the like. least one parameter of a power outlet associated with the
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed adjustable bed, a wireless USB remote control adapted to
that may include one or more articulating portions, including control at least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed,
a modular control device, where the modular control device and the like.
may be adapted to control at least one aspect of the adjustable 25 An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
bed, a power outlet controller adapted to control at least one that may include one or more articulating portions, including
parameter of a power outlet associated with the adjustable a Bluetooth remote control that may be adapted to control at
bed, and the like. least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, an ultra wide
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed band (UWB) remote control adapted to control at least one
that may include one or more articulating portions, including 30 adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like.
bed, a Bluetooth remote control adapted to control at least one a Bluetooth remote control that may be adapted to control at
adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like. least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, a wireless
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed 35 USB remote control adapted to control at least one adjustable
that may include one or more articulating portions, including aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like.
bed, an ultra wide band (UWB) remote control adapted to an ultra wide band (UWB) remote control that may be
control at least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, 40 adapted to control at least one adjustable aspect of the adjust-
and the like. able bed, a wireless USB remote control adapted to control at
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like.
that may include one or more articulating portions, including These and other systems, methods, objects, features, and
a modular control device, where the modular control device advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those
may be adapted to control at least one aspect of the adjustable 45 skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the
bed, a wireless USB remote control adapted to control at least preferred embodiment and the drawings. All documents men-
one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like. tioned herein are hereby incorporated in their entirety by
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed reference.
an air purification facility associated with the adjustable bed, 50 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
a power outlet controller adapted to control at least one
parameter of a power outlet associated with the adjustable The systems and methods described herein may be under-
bed, and the like. stood by reference to the following figures:
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an adjustable bed facility
that may include one or more articulating portions, including 55 and associated components.
an air purification facility associated with the adjustable bed, FI G. 2 shows an embodiment of two methods of maintain-
a Bluetooth remote control adapted to control at least one ing user memory for storing user preferred adjustable bed
adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the like. positions.
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of a remote control used to
that may include one or more articulating portions, including 60 command the adjustable bed facility.
an air purification facility associated with the adjustable bed, FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the shipping of a mattress
an ultra wide band (UWB) remote control adapted to control retainer bracket in the upside down position.
at least one adjustable aspect of the adjustable bed, and the FIG. 5A shows a top view of a vibration motor within an
like. opening of a adjustable bed facility section lateral surface.
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed 65 FIG. 5B shows a side view of a vibration motor within an
that may include one or more articulating portions, including opening of an adjustable bed facility lateral surface.
an air purification facility associated with the adjustable bed, FIG. 6 shows a typical hospital adjustable bed.
US 8,682,457 B2
9 10
FIG. 7 shows one use of actuators connected to the bed The support structure may be a frame structure to provide the
frame and the adjustable sections. support yet remain lightweight.
FIG. 8 shows more than one actuator for each adjustable Another aspect may be the use of replaceable memory to
bed section, in this case there are two actuators for each maintain the bed memory and software applications. The
adjustable section. replaceable memory may allow user specific information to
FIG. 9 shows an adjustable bed using slats instead of wood be moved from one adjustable bed to another adjustable bed.
decking for the foundation of the adjustable sections. This may be useful in care facilities where a user may move
from one bed to another bed during the stay in the care facility.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES If the user has saved a preferred positioning of the adjustable
10 bed, when the user moves to another bed, the preferred posi-
In the following description, terms such as 'adjustable
tioning settings may be moved to the other bed with the user.
mattress', 'adjustable bed', 'adjustable bed facility' and the
Another aspect of the adjustable bed may be to provide
like are used interchangeably to refer generally to an appara-
tus including a sleeping or resting surface with one or more safety features that may control the retraction of the adjust-
adjustable or moveable sub-surfaces that can be positioned 15 able bed sections to reduce the risk of crushing an object that
for user comfort and/or convenience, unless a specific mean- may be under the adjustable bed.
ing is explicitly provided or otherwise clear from the context Now referring to FIG. 1, a block diagram of the various
As users spend more and more time in adjustable beds they components of the adjustable bed facility 102 is shown. In an
may desire to have a level of independence by controlling embodiment, an adjustable bed facility 102 may be made up
devices that may be in the room from the adjustable bed. The 20 of a number of devices and facilities that may include actua-
devices and facilities that users may wish to control may tors 104, springs 108, mattresses 110, a sub-frame 112, a
include audio equipment, video equipment, lamps, air puri- skeleton structure 114, vibration motors 118, supports 120,
fication facilities, power outlets, and the like. It may be desir- safety brackets 122, an electronic facility 124, an air purifi-
able for the user to control these devices and facilities from cation facility 144, a remote 148, a memory facility 150, a
the adjustable bed without having to leave the bed or ask for 25 memory connection 160, a network connection 162, and the
aid from someone else. For example, the user may be con- like. In an embodiment, the electronic facility 124 may
fined to the bed and may want the simple ability to control the include a wire harness 128, a receiver 130, modular controls
lights around the adjustable bed. 132, a control box 134, power outlets 138, a power connection
In an embodiment, an adjustable bed may not be the only 142, and the like. In an embodiment, the memory facility 150
rest facility to benefit from position and additional function 30 may include a receiver learn facility 152, bed memory 154, a
control. Users may also use beds, adjustable beds, adjustable
backup battery 158, and the like. In an embodiment, the
chairs, adjustable couches, and the like to provide comfort-
receiver learn facility 152, bed memory 154, and backup
able positions when the user may have limited mobility. For
battery 158 may not be part of the memory facility 150, but
example, a user that has had hip replacement surgery may not
be confined to bed but may require a chair or couch to be 35 may be combined into other facilities or devices, be stand-
adjustable to provide a comfortable sitting position while alone devices, or the like.
providing control of other devices within the room to limit the In an embodiment, the physical aspects of the adjustable
number of times the user must get up and adjust the devices. bed facility 102 that provide support for the user may include
In an embodiment, while recovering from a surgery, an injury, the actuators 104, springs 108, mattresses 110, a sub-frame
an illness, or the like, the user may use more than one type of 40 112, a skeleton structure 114, vibration motors 118, supports
rest facility. The user may require confinement to an adjust- 120, and safety brackets 122.
able bed for a time and then, with health improvement, be able In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114 may provide
to move to either an adjustable chair or adjustable couch. the central structure that the other physical aspects may inter-
Aspects of the invention may be described as an adjustable act with. In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114 may
bed, but it may be understood that the same aspects may be 45 provide direct support to the mattress 110, springs 108, and
applied to other rest facilities that may include a bed, a couch, the like. In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114 may be
a chair, or the like. Such rest facilities may be in a home, a car, a lightweight frame structure that may provide both the
a recreational vehicle, a cruise ship, an airline, a train, or strength and rigidity required to properly support the mattress
anywhere that a user required them, and they may be fixed or 110 and springs 108. In embodiments, the skeleton structure
mobile. 50 114 may use materials that include metal, plastic, wood, or
One aspect of this invention may be to provide the adjust- the like; the materials may be used individually or in combi-
able bed with more than one power option to move the adjust- nation.
able bed sections. The adjustable bed may use electric motors In an embodiment, springs 108 may be used with a mattress
with gearboxes, pneumatic springs, hydraulic springs, or the 110, instead of a mattress 110, or the like. In an embodiment,
like to actuate the adjustable bed sections. There may be both 55 the springs may be a standard bed spring system (e.g. coils
pricing and durability reasons to have the different actuation within a wire framework), individual coil springs, individual
types. foam springs, air springs, or the like. In an embodiment, the
Another aspect of this invention may be to provide the individual springs (e.g. coil, foam, or air) may be used to
ability to provide additional functionality to the adjustable provide variable firmness to provide comfort to the user. For
bed by using modular controls that may be able to commu- 60 example, the springs 108 may be less firm or firmer in a local
nicate with the user's interface control. The modular controls area to provide the user with the support that may be required
may be designed to control a number of additional devices for a body location that is experiencing discomfort (e.g. a hip,
and facilities that may include audio devices, video devices, shoulder, back, neck). Springs that may have local firmnesses
lamps, air purification facilities, power outlets, and the like. will be described in more detail below.
Another aspect of the adjustable bed may be to provide a 65 In an embodiment, the mattress 11 0 may include foam,
support structure to support the bed materials (e.g. mattress), feathers, springs 108, material, or the like. In an embodiment,
motors, actuators, hinges between bed sections, and the like. the different materials may be used individually or in combi-
US 8,682,457 B2
11 12
nation. The mattress may be intended to provide the user with ity 102 sections. In an embodiment, one section of the adjust-
a firmness that provides for the comfort requirements of the able bed may remain fixed, such as the torso section, and act
user. as the foundation for the other movable sections to be posi-
In an embodiment, the mattress 110 may be an air mattress tions. In an embodiment, any or none of the sections may be
110. In an embodiment, the air mattress 110 may be con- a fixed foundation section in the adjustable bed facility 102. In
structed using a single chamber, a plurality of chambers, a embodiments, there may be more than one adjustable bed
plurality of individual chambers, a combination of chamber facility 102 configuration depending on the requirements of a
shapes, or the like. In an embodiment, the air mattress 110 user, cost requirements, medical needs, or the like. For
may be inflated to various pressures that may provide the user example, there may be a configuration where only the head
with the desired comfort level. In an embodiment, there may
10 section is adjustable to provide the user with the ability to
be separate air mattresses 110 for each of the adjustable bed
have an elevated upper body position. This configuration may
facility 102 sections. For example, there may be separate air
be a single purpose bed but may also provide the user with a
mattresses 110 for the head, torso, and foot sections of the
adjustable bed facility 102. In an embodiment, the inflation less expensive adjustable bed facility 102 that meets the
pressure of the individual air mattresses 11 0 may be different 15 user's needs. One skilled in the art may understand that there
from each other depending on user settings. may be many different adjustable bed facility configurations
In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 sections containing fixed and moveable sections.
may each contain individual air mattresses 110. For example, In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114, as part of
the head, torso, and foot sections may each have individual air each adjustable bed facility 102 section, may also provide
mattresses that may be individually controlled for air pres- 20 support and connection members for the components that
sures and therefore firnmess. In an embodiment, the user may may be used to move the various adjustable bed facility 102
be able to control the firnmess of the individual air mattresses sections. There may be skeleton structure 114 members that
110 using a remote 148. In an embodiment, the remote 148 provide connection support to the actuators 104, supports
may have indicators for each of the firmness adjustable air 120, safety brackets 122, vibration motors 118, and the like.
mattresses 110. For example, the remote 148 may have keys 25 These support and connection members may have any shape
for increasing or decreasing the pressures of the individual air or configuration required to provide the support and connec-
mattresses 148. Using the remote 148, the user may be able to tions needed by the various other components. For example,
adjust the firmness of the adjustable bed facility sections. in addition to the skeleton structure 114 that is used to provide
In an embodiment, the air mattress 11 0 may use a common support to the mattress 110 and springs 108 there may be at
air supply source facility as an air actuator 104. In an embodi- 30 least one cross member that may provide a connection to the
ment, a control box 134 may control both the air mattress 11 0 actuator 104 and safety bracket 122.
and air actuator 104. The control box 134 may provide con- In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114 and the sub-
trolling commands to both the air mattress 110 and air actua- frame 112 may interface with each other; the sub-frame 112
tors. may provide structural support and a rigid foundation base to
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114 may have 35 the skeleton structure 114. In an embodiment, the sub-frame
structural members that support the mattress 11 0 and springs 112 may be the rigid structure that is in contact to the floor and
108 and may also provide support and connections for the may provide a base for any fixed adjustable bed facility 102
actuators 104, sub-frame 112, supports 120, vibrator motors sections and an interface for any movable adjustable bed
118, safety bracket 122, and the like. In an embodiment, the facility 102 sections. In an embodiment, the sub-frame 112
structural members may be positioned on the peripheral 40 legs may be connected to the sub-frame 112 using a threaded
edges of the mattress 110 and springs 108 to provide overall stud into threads of the sub-frame 112. In an embodiment, to
support and rigidity to the mattress 110 and springs 108 and prevent the threaded stud from pulling out of the legs during
may form the base of the individual adjustable bed facility tightening, the head of the threaded stud may be fixed
102 sections. Additionally, there may other structural mem- between two or more layers ofleg material. This construction
bers as support, cross pieces, or the like that may provide 45 may trap the threaded stud head to prevent it from moving
additional support to the mattress 110 and springs 108 as may away from the end of the leg and may also prevent the
be required. A person knowledgeable in the art may under- threaded stud head from being pulled through the end of the
stand that the frame structure may have many different con- leg during the tightening of the leg to the sub-frame. In addi-
struction configurations to provide support and rigidity to the tion, the two or more layers of leg material may provide for
mattress 110 and springs 108. 50 added strength to the sub-frame 112 legs to prevent distortion
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114 may form the at the sub-frame 112 and leg interface. In an example of a
base of the adjustable bed facility 102 sections that may be fixed torso section, the sub-frame 112 may provide a base to
moved relative to each other to provide the various bed posi- solidly connect the torso section to provide a fixed non-
tions required by the user. The adjustable bed facility 102 may moving section. The other moveable sections may be move-
include more than one section; a section may be fixed or may 55 ably connected to the fixed torso section and additionally
be adjustable. For example, the typical adjustable bed may supported by the sub-frame 112 using a moveable interface
have adjustable sections for the head, leg, and foot while the connection.
torso section may remain fixed and horizontal. There may be In an embodiment, the sub-frame 112 may have structural
different combinations of movable and fixed sections with members that may run along the length of the adjustable bed
one or all of the sections being movable. In an embodiment, 60 facility 102, run along the width of the adjustable bed facility
the sections may include the skeleton structure 114, mattress 102, run diagonally across the adjustable bed facility 102, or
110, springs 108, and the like and may individually be small other orientation in relation to the adjustable bed facility 102
mattress structures of the entire adjustable bed facility 102 that may be required for support or connection to compo-
mattress. nents.
In an embodiment, the adjustable bed sections may be 65 In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114 may be used
connected together using hinges or like devices that allow a as an RF antenna for receiving communication from the
freedom of motion between two adjacent adjustable bed facil- remote 148. In embodiment, the entire skeleton structure 114
US 8,682,457 B2
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may be used as an antenna; a portion of the skeleton structure or other shaped bracket, to provide for increased material
114 may be used as an antenna, or the like. thickness and strength to resist bending forces. The thickness
In one embodiment, the sub-frame 112 may provide solid of the additional bracket may be determined by the amount of
connections for any fixed section and skeleton structure 114 force and torque that may need to be resisted during the
by rigidly connecting the skeleton structure 114 directly to the adjustable bed facility 102 section movement. In an embodi-
sub-frame 112. In this manner, any fixed section and skeleton ment, the actuation 104 connection may be between two of
structure 114 may be rigidly connected to the sub-frame 112, the skeleton structures 114. For example, a first end of the
and through the sub-frame 112, rigidly connected to the floor. actuator 104 may be connected to the fixed torso section of the
In another embodiment, the sub-frame 112 may provide an adjustable bed facility 102 and a second end of the actuator
interface for the fixed adjustable bed facility 102 section and 10 104 may be connected to the section that is to be moved (e.g.
skeleton structure 114 where the fixed section may be able to head, leg, or foot sections). In an embodiment, the actuator
move or slide in relation to the sub-frame 112. By providing 104 may use electric motors and mechanical gears, pneumatic
a non-rigid interface connection between the sub-frame 112 pressure, hydraulic pressure, pneumatic spring, air spring,
and the skeleton structure 114, the fixed adjustable bed facil- hydraulic spring or the like to provide the force to extend and
ity 102 section may have a freedom of motion but still may be 15 retract the actuator 104. The action of extending and retract-
supported by the sub-frame in a solid foundation manner. For ing the actuator 104 may move the various movable bed
example, the fixed adjustable bed facility 102 section may sections up or down. By the actuator 104 pushing against the
have wheels that rnn in a track, groove, "C" channel, or the section, the section may rotate upward aronnd the pivot point
like of the sub-frame 112 and may be able to move horizon- provided by the hinge type connection. In the same manner,
tally during the motion of one or more of the movable adjust- 20 by the actuator 104 pulling against the section, the section
able bed facility 102 sections. In an embodiment, the hori- may rotate downward around the pivot point provided by the
zontal freedom of motion may provide for a "wall hugger" hinge type connection. In an embodiment, there may be at
feature where, as the head section is adjusted up or down, the least one actuator 114 for every moveable adjustable bed
fixed torso section may move, along with the head section, facility 102 section.
horizontally forward and away from an adjacent wall to main- 25 In an embodiment, the combination of actuator 114, safety
tain a fixed distance between the head section and the wall, bracket 122, and supports 120 may provide a safety feature to
therefore "hugging" the wall. It may be nnderstood by one prevent an object that may be under the adjustable bed facility
skilled in the art that the moveable interface between the 102 from being damaged, impinged, crushed, or the like
skeleton structure 114 and sub-frame 112 may be any type of during the decent of the adjustable bed facility 102 section.
interface that may allow freedom of motion between the 30 During the downward motion of one adjustable bed facility
sub-frame 112 and skeleton structure 114. 102 sections, the section may come in contact with an object
In an embodiment, any adjustable sections may have two that is under the adjustable bed facility 102. If the actuator 104
connections, a first connection may be provided by a hinge is allowed to continue to pull the section in the downward
type connection and a second connection may be the connec- direction, the object may be crushed under the force the
tion with the actuator 104 and safety bracket 122 that may 35 actuator 104 may apply. In an embodiment, the safety bracket
provide the force to rotate the adjustable bed facility 102 122 may have a slot that may provide time to determine that
section up or down. In an embodiment, the hinge type con- there is an object under the section that is moving downward.
nection between the skeleton structure 114 of a first section In an embodiment, the slot may have a first side that is on
and a second section may provide the point of rotation for the the opposite side of the slot from the actuator 104 and a
section motion. In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 40 second side that is on the same side as the actuator 104. In an
102 may contain more than one section and any or all of the embodiment, the slot that is between the first side and the
sections may be connected by a hinge type connection. second side may be of any length. In an embodiment, the
In an embodiment, there may be a support gusset for con- actuator may push against the first side to move the adjustable
nection between the actuator 104 and the adjustable bed facil- bed facility 102 section in an upward direction. In an embodi-
ity 102 section. In embodiments, the gusset may be an I beam, 45 ment' during the downward motion of the section, the actua-
a T beam, an L beam, a box beam, or any other beam design tor 104 may move at the same speed as the adjustable bed
that may provide the strength to lift the combined weight of facility 102 section and therefore the actuator connection to
the adjustable bed facility 102 section and the user without the safety bracket 122 may remain within the safety bracket
bending. In an embodiment, to resist bending forces at the 122 slot without contacting either the first or second sides of
connections to the actuator 104 and the adjustable bed facility 50 the slot. In an embodiment, the section may move in the
102 section, the ends of the gusset may be reinforced. In downward direction under the weight of the section without
embodiments, the reinforcement may be an additional the actuator 104 pulling on the second side of the safety
bracket added to the ends of the gusset, such as a U bracket or bracket 122.
other bracket shape, to provide for increased material thick- In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 section
ness and strength of the gusset ends. The thickness of the 55 downward speed may be further controlled by supports 120
additional bracket may be determined by the amonnt of force that may provide resistance to the section motion to control
and torque that may need to be resisted during the adjustable the rate of decent. In an embodiment, the support 120 may be
bed facility 102 section movement. a pressurized device using pneumatic pressure, hydraulic
With the adjustable bed facility 102 sections intercon- pressure, or the like to provide a resistive force to slow the
nected using hinge type connections there may be at least one 60 decent of the adjustable bed facility 102 section. In an
actuator 104 that may provide a connection between a fixed embodiment, the supports may provide enough resistance to
adjustable bed facility 102 section and a moveable section. In control the rate of decent of the section as the actuator 104 is
an embodiment, the hinge connection between the adjustable retracted.
bed facility 102 sections may be a pivot point bracket that may In an embodiment, as the actuator 104 retracts, the adjust-
include additional strengthening to resist bending forces. 65 able bed facility 102 section, with the aid of the support 120,
Similar to the gusset described above, the pivot point connec- may descend at the same rate as the as the actuator 104 is
tions may have additional reinforcement, such as a U bracket retracting. By matching the rates of the actuator 104 retrac-
US 8,682,457 B2
15 16
tion and the adjustable bed facility 102 section descending, and removable. In an embodiment, the at least one bracket
the actuator 104 connection within the safety bracket 122 slot 504 may be shaped to secure the vibration motor 118 within
may remain within the slot area and not contact either the first the section opening such as a straight bracket, a U shaped
or second side of the slot. In an embodiment, as the section bracket, an L shaped bracket, or the like; in FIG. SA and FIG.
descends, if an object is encountered, the adjustable bed facil- 5B the bracket 504 is shown as a straight bracket 504. In an
ity 102 section may stop its decent and the actuator 104 embodiment, the removal of one of the brackets 504 may
connection will move within the safety bracket 122 slot with- facilitate securing the vibration motor 118 to the bed section,
out pulling the section downward. In an embodiment, the facilitating the servicing of the vibration motor 118, or the
amount of time that the actuator 104 connection is moving like. The bracket 504 may be positioned such that at least one
within the safety bracket 122 slot while the adjustable bed 10 portion of the bracket 504 is within the opening of the lateral
facility 102 section is stopped may provide time to the user to surface 508 and may also be positioned such that the bracket
realize that an object has been contacted and to stop the 504 may overlap the vibration motor 118 flange. The bracket
downward motion of the section. 504 may provide support to the vibration motor 118 flange
In an embodiment, an additional safety feature may be the along a majority of the perimeter of the mattress support
addition of a shut off sensor, shut off switch, or the like on the 15 opening. The bracket 504 may be coupled to the mattress
first side of the safety bracket 122 slot to stop the retraction of support 508 using a removable coupling. Removing the
the actuator 104 if the actuator 104 connection comes in bracket 504 may facilitate removing and servicing the vibra-
contact with the first side of the slot. In this manner, if the tion motor 118. The vibration motor 118 flange may extend
actuator 104 connection with the safety bracket 122 slot beyond the perimeter of the opening of the mattress support
reaches the first side of the slot, the actuator 104 retraction 20 508 and the resilient material 502 may provide positional
may be stopped and the adjustable bed facility 102 section support for the motor so that the flange may impart vibration
will not be forcibly pulled down into the object that may be to the mattress without contacting the mattress support. The
under the section. In an embodiment, there may be an indi- resilient material 502 may provide mechanical insulation
cation to the user that the actuator 104 connection has come in between the flange and the perimeter of the opening in the
contact with the first side of the slot and the adjustable bed 25 mattress support 508. The resilient material 502 disposed
facility 102 sections downward motion has been stopped. In between the flange and the lateral support 508 surface of the
an embodiment, the indication may be an audio indication, a bracket 504 may further provide positional support for the
visual indication, a motion indication (e.g. vibration), or the vibration motor 118 housing.
like to indicate to the user that the motion has been stopped The bracket 504 may be constructed using material such as
and there may be an obstruction with the adjustable bed 30 plastic, metal, or the like, and may be constructed using the
facility 102 section. materials individually or in combination. In an embodiment,
In an embodiment, there may be at least one vibration there may be a resilient material 502 associated with the
motor 118 that may provide vibration and massage functions brackets 504, the resilient material may provide for dampen-
to the adjustable bed facility 102 sections and mattresses 110. ing the vibration between the vibration motor 118 and the
In an embodiment, there may be vibration motors 118 asso- 35 adjustable bed facility 102, may contact the vibration motor
ciated with any of the adjustable bed facility 102 sections. In 118 to secure the vibration motor 118 to the bed section, may
an embodiment there may be more than one vibration motor provide for dampening of vibration to the adjustable bed
118 for each adjustable bed facility 102 section that may have facility 102 and hold the vibration motor 118 in place, or the
vibration motors 118. In an embodiment, using the remote like. The resilient material 502 may include latex foam, poly-
148, the user may be able to control the vibration mode of the 40 urethane foam, polypropylene foam, polyethylene foam, or
various vibration motors 118; the mode may include the the like and may be used individually or in combination.
vibration setting for a particular bed section, the vibration In an embodiment, either of the pneumatic or hydraulic
frequency of at least one of the vibration motors, stopping the devices may act as a vibration motor 118 increasing and
vibration of at least one of the vibration motors, or the like. In decreasing the pressure within a cylinder, bladder, or the like
an embodiment, the vibration motors 118 may be operated 45 at certain frequencies to provide the vibration required by the
independently or in combination. In an embodiment, the user user. In an embodiment, a device to provide the pressure
may select a vibration mode on the remote 148 and the control frequency may be part of the vibration motor 118, a separate
box 134 may use a software application to control the various device from the vibration motor 118, or the like.
vibration motors 118 to the user's request. In an embodiment, the vibration facility 118 may be con-
In an embodiment, the vibration motor 118 may be an 50 nected to the skeleton structure 114, the mattress 110, the
electric/mechanical device, a pneumatic device, a hydraulic lateral surface 508, or the like where the vibration may be
device, or the like. The mechanical device may use an electric imparted into the adjustable bed facility 102 mattress 110 as
motor to rotate an offset mass to create a vibration; the vibra- desired by the user. In an embodiment, the vibration motor
tion motor may be controlled for vibration frequency and 118 flange may provide surface area that may impart a vibra-
amplitude by the speed of rotation of the electric motor. 55 tion into the mattress 110. In another embodiment, the vibra-
Referring to FIG. SA and FIG. 5B, an embodiment of a tion motor 118 may be in proximity to a vibration distribution
vibration motor 118 is shown within an opening of a adjust- facility (not shown) that may aid in the propagation of vibra-
able bed facility 102 support lateral surface 508. The adjust- tion energy to the adjustable bed facility 102 section. In an
able bed facility 102 section may have a lateral surface 508 embodiment, the vibration motor 118 may be operatively
and the lateral surface 508 may include an opening in which 60 connected to the vibration distribution facility, may be in
the vibration motor 118 may be located; the vibration motor contact with the vibration distribution facility, may not be in
118 may fit within the opening such that the vibration motor contact with the vibration distribution facility, or the like. The
118 may not contact the lateral surface 508. vibration distribution facility may be constructed using mate-
In an embodiment, the vibration motor 118 may be secured rials such as plastic, rubber, metal, or the like and may be
to the adjustable bed facility 102 section using at least one 65 constructed using these materials individually or in combina-
bracket 504. In an embodiment, when more than one bracket tion. In an embodiment, the vibration distribution facility may
504 is used, at least one of the brackets 504 may be separable provide for a more uniform distribution of the vibration char-
US 8,682,457 B2
17 18
acteristics of the vibration motor 118 and may have a size and one adjustable bed facility. For example, the user may be able
shape relative to the size and shape of the adjustable bed to control hislher adjustable bed facility and may additionally
facility 102 section. be able to control another adjustable bed that may be within
Referring again to FIG. 1, in an embodiment, the adjustable the range of the communication method.
bed facility 102 may have an electronic facility 124 that may In an embodiment, the cellular communication may utilize
contain components that provide control of the physical a cell phone, a smart phone, or the like to provide the com-
aspects of the adjustable bed facility 102 (e.g. actuator, vibra- munication method with the control box 134, modular con-
tion motors), interface with the remote 148, interface with trols 132, or the like. In an embodiment, the control box 134
networks, interface with bed memory 154, control electronic may be controlled by a programmable control circuit (PLC).
devices of the adjustable bed facility 102, and the like.
10 In an embodiment, the user may use a menu on the cell phone
In an embodiment, the control box 134 may coordinate the
for adjustable bed functions that may be controlled by the cell
electronic requirements of the electronic facility 124. In an
phone. For example, the cell phone technology may be able to
embodiment, the control box 134 may interface with the
receiver 130, remote 148, air purification facility 144, power control the bed position and vibration characteristics of the
outlets, power connection 142, power supply 140, modular 15 adjustable bed facility 102 and therefore the cell phone menu
controls 132, wire harness 128, and the like. In an embodi- may present the user with options for controlling the bed
ment, the control box 134, receiver 130, and power supply position and vibration.
140 may be mounted directly to the skeleton structure 114. In an embodiment, if the communication between the
In an embodiment, the control box 134 may receive its remote 148 and receiver 130 is wireless, the receiver learn
command request from the user requesting adjustable bed 20 facility 152 may be used to establish the communication
facility 102 functions using the remote 148. In an embodi- between them. In an embodiment, a learn protocol between
ment, the remote may communicate to the receiver 130 and the remote 148 and receiver 130 may be user initiated by
the receiver may transmit the received user command request pressing a button on the receiver learn facility 152, powering
to the control box 134. In an embodiment, the receiver 130 up the receiver learn facility 152, bringing the receiver learn
and control box 134 may be individual devices or a combined 25 facility 152 within a certain proximity of the receiver 130,
device. indicating on the remote 152 to begin the learn protocol, or the
In an embodiment, the remote 148 and receiver 130 may like. In an embodiment, the learn protocol may be fully auto-
have wired or wireless communication. In an embodiment, matic, semi-automatic with user intervention, manual, or the
the wireless communication may be by radio frequency (RF), like. In an embodiment, a user may select a channel, fre-
infrared (IR), Bluetooth, or the like. In an embodiment, the 30
quency, or the like during learn protocol or after the learn
receiver 13 0 may receive the user commands from the remote
protocol. The changing of the channel, frequency, or the like
130 and transmit the same command to the control box 134;
may prevent two different remote 148 and receiver 130 com-
the receiver may not provide any interpretation of the remote
binations from interfering with other wireless communica-
148 commands. In an embodiment, the remote 148 and
receiver 130 may be communication matched by the use of a 35
tion devices. In an embodiment, each time the learn protocol
code key. The code key may be any indicator that may be is executed, a new unique communication link may be estab-
interpreted by the remote 148 and receiver 130 that com- lished; there may be a plurality of unique communication
mands may be received and executed between the remote 148 links available for each remote 148 and receiver 130 combi-
and receiver 130. In embodiments, the code key may be a nation.
number, a word, a serial number, a bed identification, a 40 In an embodiment, the remote 148 may be a user controlled
remote identification, a user identification, or any other iden- device to provide control commands to the control box 134 to
tification known to both the remote 148 and receiver 130, all command certain functions of the adjustable bed facility 102.
an indication that communications should be received. The In an embodiment, the certain functions may be adjustable
code key may be transmitted as the beginning of the commu- bed facility section movement (e.g. up or down), vibration
nication, the end of the communication, as part of the com- 45 control, modular controlled 132 devices, or the like. In an
munication or the like. embodiment, the remote 148 may communicate with the
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114 may be used control box using wired communication, wireless communi-
as an RF antenna for receiving communication from the cation, or the like. In an embodiment, the wireless communi-
remote 148 to the receiver 130. In embodiment, the entire cation may use a radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), Blue-
skeleton structure 114 may be used as an antenna; a portion of 50 tooth, or the like. If the remote communicates using a wireless
the skeleton structure 114 may be used as an antenna, or the technology, the communication may be with the receiver 130
like. and the receiver 130 may pass the command request to the
In an embodiment, the control box 134 may also control the control box 134.
functions of the adjustable bed facility 102 using a wireless In an embodiment, the inputs of the remote control 148
technology in place of, or in coordination with, the wire 55 may be organized into groups of common function control;
harness 128. In an embodiment, the wireless technology may the remote control 148 groups may be arranged in a circular
include Bluetooth, ultra-wideband (UWB), wireless USB orientation. As shown in FIG. 3, the remote control 148 may
(WUSB), IEEE 802.11, cellular, or the like. The various include more than one group 302 and may include at least one
controlled functions (e.g. actuators 104 or external devices) positioning control group and one vibration control group. In
may be able to communicate using the wireless technology, 60 one embodiment, the remote control 148 groups 302 may be
may use an intermediate wireless receiver, or the like to organized into a circular pattern where the circular pattern
communicate with the control box 134. may provide for inputs that control increasing a function,
In an embodiment, the control box 134 wireless commu- decreasing a function, storing a function, global command
nication may use a wireless network protocol that may functions 304, or the like. For example, a circular group 302
include peer-to-peer communication, master/slave communi- 65 may be divided up into a number of segments to control
cation, as a hub, as a server, or the like. In an embodiment, the certain functions of the adjustable bed facility 102. FIG. 3
wireless communication may be used to control more than shows four sections for each of the circular groups 302, but it
US 8,682,457 B2
19 20
should be understood that there may be any number of sec- the adjustable bed facility 148. The power outlet may be an
tions to provide the required adjustable bed facility 102 con- RF controlled power outlet and the remote 148 may be able to
trol. transmit an RF command directly to the RF power outlet. In
In one example, one of the circular groups 302 may be used an embodiment, the power outlet may include settings of at
to control movements of the adjustable bed facility 102 sec- least on, off, a percentage of power, or the like. The power
tions. The movement circular group 302 may have inputs for outlet control power setting may be controlled by a hardware
moving the head section up/down, moving the foot section setting, a software setting, or the like. The power outlet may
up/down, inputs for storing a user preferred positions to the be an AC powered power outlet or a DC powered power
PLC, or the like. Additionally, there may be a global com- outlet.
mand input 304 that may provide for commanding more than 10 The remote 148 may include a timer that has a user defined
one adjustable bed facility 102 function using a single input setting that may allow the user to detennine when the remote
such as commanding the adjustable bed facility 102 to go to a 148 communicates a control command to the RF power out-
flat position. For example, the user may be able to select the let. For example, the user may be able to set a timer on the
flat button and the adjustable bed facility 102 may move all of remote 148 to indicate a time when the RF power outlet is to
the adjustable sections to the flat position. 15 turn on or off. For example, the user may use this function in
A vibration circular group 302 may have inputs for con- the evening where the user may want to read for a half hour
trolling the vibration of the head section up/down, controlling and then go to sleep, the user could set the timer for a half hour
the foot section vibration up/down, inputs for storing a user to turn off a power outlet that controls a light fixture, after the
preferred vibration characteristics to the PLC, or the like. half hour the remote 148 may command the RF power outlet
Additionally, there may be a global command input 304 that 20 to turn off and therefore turn the light fixture off. In another
may provide for commanding more than one adjustable bed embodiment, the timer may be a clock where the user may be
facility 102 vibration characteristic using a single input such able to set a time when the RF power outlet may turn on or off.
as commanding the adjustable bed facility 102 to stop all In an embodiment, the user may be able to indicate the com-
vibration. For example, the user may be able to select the stop mand, such as on or off, that the remote 148 is to transmit to
vibration input and the adjustable bed facility 102 may stop 25 the RF power outlet when the timer or clock setting indication
all of the adjustable sections from vibrating. In an embodi- has been reached.
ment' the user may select the all stop global 304 input to stop In an embodiment, the user may indicate adjustable bed
the adjustable bed facility 102 vibration before selecting a facility 102 functions using the remote 148 by pressing a
different vibration characteristic for one of the adjustable bed button, touching a screen, entering a code, speaking a com-
facility 102 sections. 30 mand, or the like. In an embodiment, the control box 134,
In an embodiment, the user may be able to detennine the using the receiver 130, may receive and interpret the com-
control functions that the global command 304 may control. mand provided by the remote 148. The remote may control
For example, the user may be able to input a command devices with commands that may include on, off, high power,
sequence to indicate the global command that should be medium power, low power, volume, play, fast forward,
applied to the global command 304 input. In an embodiment, 35 rewind, skip, modular device to control, or the like. For
the global command may be stored in the adjustable bed example, the remote 148 may transmit a command to move
facility 102 memory 154 for later recall. In an embodiment, the head section up and the control box 134 may command the
after the global command 304 has been stored, the user may actuator 104 to extend a certain amount in response to the
select the global command 304 input for the command command. In another example, the remote 148 may com-
sequence execution. 40 mand that a modular control 132 connected lamp be turned
The function of the remote 148 has been described with off. The control box 134 may command the control box 132 to
controlling adjustable bed facility 102 movement and vibra- turn off the lamp.
tion, but it should be understood that the remote may have Referring again to FIG. 1, in an embodiment, the control
control inputs for any function of the adjustable bed facility box 124 may use the bed memory 154 to store adjustable bed
102. Additionally, the control inputs have been described as 45 facility 102 settings, application software, demonstration
having a circular pattern, but it should be understood that software, and the like. In an embodiment, the user may deter-
other embodiments of the control input organization may be mine that certain adjustable bed locations are preferred and
used for controlling the function of the adjustable bed facility should be saved for future recall. The control box 134 may
102. save the user preferred settings in the bed memory 154 in
The remote 148 may include a timer that has a user defined 50 order to recall the preferred settings at the use request. In an
setting that may allow the user to detennine when the remote embodiment, the control box 134 may also store non-user
148 communicates a control command to the adjustable bed requested information to the bed memory 154 as needed for
facility. For example, the user may be able to set a timer on the the control of the various adjustable bed facility 102 compo-
remote 148 to indicate a time when the adjustable bed facility nents. For example, when the user requests an adjustable bed
102 is to go to a flat position. The user may use this function 55 facility 102 section to move, the control box 134 may store the
in the evening where the user may want to read for a half hour last position into bed memory 154 to be used as a last position
and then go to sleep, the user could set the timer for a halfhour recall, an undo command, the last settings for all the adjust-
and the adjustable bed facility 102 may go to the flat position able bed facility 102 component at shutdown, or the like.
after the half hour. In another embodiment, the timer may be In an embodiment, the control box 134 application soft-
a clock where the user may be able to set a time when the 60 ware may be stored in the bed memory 154. In an embodi-
adjustable bed facility 102 is to complete a certain function. ment, the software may be downloaded to the control box
In an embodiment, the user may be able to indicate the com- 134, may be run from the bed memory 154, or the like. In an
mand that the remote 148 is to transmit to the adjustable bed embodiment, the application software may be an interrupt
facility 102 when the timer or clock setting indication has type application, a polling type application, or the like for
been reached. 65 sensing what command the user may have indicated on the
In an embodiment, the remote 148 may be able to directly remote 148. For example, in an interrupt application, each
control the settings of external power outlets associated with command requested by the remote 148 may send an interrupt
US 8,682,457 B2
21 22
code to the control box 134. The control box 134 may then 102 and moved to the second adjustable bed facility 102 with
request from the application software the command sequence the user and therefore the user may keep the same preferred
that is associated with the received interrupt. In another adjustable bed 102 settings.
example, the polling application may continually poll the In this manner the bed memory 154 may be considered
remote 148 for requested user commands and when a user portable memory. In an embodiment, the removable bed
command is detected, then request the command sequences memory 154 may be flash memory, programmable logic cir-
for the requested user command. cuit (PLC), secure digital (SD) memory, mini SD memory,
In another embodiment, the control box 134 may use pro- Compact Flash type I memory, Compact Flash type II
grammable logic circuits (PLC) to store application programs memory, Memory Stick, Multimedia Card, xD Picture card,
10 Smartmedia, eXtreme Digital, Microdrive, or the like.
for control of the adjustable bed facility components. In an
In an embodiment, the bed memory 154 may be part of the
embodiment, the PLC may be part of the control box 134, part
remote 148. As part of the communication between the
of a bed memory 154, in a separate control box, or the like. In
remote 148, receiver 130, and control box 134 memory infor-
an embodiment, the PLC may include a microcomputer, a mation may be exchanged between the remote 148 and con-
microprocessor, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, 10 15 trol box 134. For example, the user may indicate that a certain
connection to components, or the like. The PLC may provide adjustable bed facility 102 position should be maintained for
an interface to permit software application updates to the PLC future recall. The control box 134 may receive the save posi-
memory; PLC memory may be over written. In an embodi- tion request from the remote 148 and transmit the position
ment, this may provide a method and system for providing information back to the remote 148 for storage within the bed
software application upgrades to the adjustable bed facility 20 storage 154. In a like manner, when the user requests the
102. recall of a previously saved position, the control box 134 may
In an embodiment, the PLC may have a connection to an request the position information from the remote 148 bed
external interface that may allow updates to be downloaded to memory 154.
the PLC. The connection may be a serial connection, a USB In an embodiment, if the remote 148 is wireless, the remote
connection, a USB device, a parallel connection, a wireless 25 148 may contain both a transmitter and receiver, or a trans-
connection, a bed memory 154, or the like. The capability to ceiver, to transmit and receive information with the control
download information to the PLC may allow for software box 134. In an embodiment, the remote 148 may communi-
updates to the PLC, may allow for remote 148 interface cate with the receiver 130 using a connection key. The con-
updates to the PLC, may allow memory updates to the PLC, nection key may be a code that indicates that a certain remote
or the like. For example, if the user was supplied with a new 30 is associated with a certain adjustable bed facility 102. When
or upgraded remote 148, the user may also be supplied with the remote 148 transmits information to the receiver, the
updated software for the PLC. The user may be able to con- remote may first send a key code to indicate that the remote
nect the device containing the new software to the external 148 is associated with the adjustable bed facility 102. If the
interface and download the new software to the PLC. key code matches the key that the receiver 13 0 is listening for,
In an embodiment, the PLC may have a connection inter- 35 the receiver 130 may receive the command from the remote.
face with the modular controls 132 to provide the user with In an embodiment, the bed memory 154 may maintain the
control over other devices that may be connected to the position information for the user preferred positions of the
adjustable bed facility 102. The PLC may receive commands adjustable bed facility 102 sections. In an embodiment, the
from the remote 148 for the modular controls 132 and may bed memory 154 may be implemented as a programmable
pass the command through to the modular control 132, may 40 logic circuit (PLC), a logic circuit (LC), or the like. FIG. 2
interpret the remote 148 command and command the modular shows an embodiment of two methods of maintaining the user
control 132, or the like. preferred positions in memory. In an embodiment, a first
In an embodiment, the PLC may interface with a modular method may be to have discreet memory table 202 for each
control 132 that is associated with external power outlets. In preferred user bed position 204. There may be the same
this embodiment, the user may be able to control the setting of 45 number of preferred bed positions 204 and memory locations
the external power outlet by selecting a setting on the remote 208 as indicators on the user remote 148. For example, the
148. The setting on the remote 148 may be received by the remote may have two buttons for the user to set the preferred
receiver 130 and PLC within the control box 134 to set the positions that may be used for later recall; the two buttons
power outlet setting. For example, the user may be able to tum may be associated with two discreet memory locations 208.
on the external power outlet by selecting an external outlet on 50 In an embodiment, each time the user indicates a new pre-
input on the remote. This may result in the external outlet ferred position for a button on the remote 148 the memory
power being turned on to power an attached device such as a location 208 may be over written with the new position infor-
lamp. mation. In an embodiment, this method may only allow the
In an embodiment, the bed memory 154 may be part of the user to set one user preferred position for every button on the
PLC, external from the PLC, a combination of internal and 55 remote 148.
external memory from the PLC, or the like. In an embodiment, a second method of memory storage for
In an embodiment, the bed memory 154 may be separate user preferred adjustable bed positions may be a table 222 that
from the control box 134 and the PLC. In an embodiment, the may have a plurality of possible positions 212 the user may
bed memory 154 may be removable memory, the bed memory select. In an embodiment, as shown, the possible positions
154 may be moved from a first adjustable bed facility 102 to 60 212 may be PI through Pn. In an embodiment, the possible
a second bed facility 102 to move user settings from the first positions 212 may be a plurality of va lues that may define the
adjustable bed facility 102 to the second bed facility 102. For range of available positions for the adjustable bed facility 12;
example, a user in a care facility may be moved from a first the plurality of values may be a set of values that define the
adjustable bed facility 102 to a second adjustable bed facility range of available positions for one or more adjustable bed
102 but the user may have already determined and saved at 65 facility 102 functions. For example, the available positions
least one preferred setting to the bed memory 154. The bed 212 may be a set of increments of section positions that may
memory may be removed from the first adjustable bed facility include a set of actuator 104 positions, a set of actuator 104
US 8,682,457 B2
23 24
activation times, bed section rotation angles, or the like. The In an embodiment, when a user indicates on the remote 148
set of increments may be detennined from a base value for the that a position is to be saved in the table 222, the PLC may
section. For example, the increments may start at zero from select the increment value 212 from within the increment
the flat position for the adjustable bed facility 102 section. In column 210 set of values that represents the current position
an embodiment, the user may be able to select the increment of the adjustable bed facility 102. The PLC may store an
set to be used as possible positions 212 for the section. For indication 214 associated with the increment value 212; the
example, the user may be able to select the type of graduations stored indication associated with the current position value
by selecting from a set of possible graduation methods such as may be a recall value that may be recalled at a later time to
distance, angle of rotation, actuation time, or the like. reposition the adjustable bed facility 102.
In FIG. 2, the table 222 is shown with an increment column 10 In an embodiment, in response to the user requesting to
210 and an indication colunm 220. In an embodiment, the return to a recall value, the PLC may scan the table 222
table 222 may have a plurality of columns 220 to store posi- indication colunm 220 for an indication 214 that may repre-
tion infonnation for any of the adjustable aspects of the sent the user's recall value. Upon locating the recall value
adjustable bed facility 102. For example, there may be an indication 214, the PLC may command the adjustable bed
indication column 220 for the head section angle, the foot 15 function to the recall value indicated 214 location, position,
angle section, the vibration characteristics for the various vibration, or the like.
vibration motors of the adjustable bed facility 102, or the like. In an embodiment, the indication colunm 220 of the table
In another embodiment, the adjustable aspects of the adjust- 222 may initially contain indications 214 in all to the avail-
able bed facility 102 may be represented by a plurality of able discrete locations 212. As a user indicates that current
individual tables 210 for storing indication infonnation for 20 position value is the position to be stored within the table 222,
each of the individual adjustable attributes for the adjustable the indication 214 for the current position value may be
bed facility 102. The individual tables 210 may be substan- removed from the table 222. This may result in one increment
tially the same as the table 222 shown in FIG. 2 where there location 212 being empty of an indication. In this case, when
may be one colunm 210 for increments 212 and another a user requests to return to the recall position, the PLC may
colunm 220 for indication infonnation (214 and 218). For 25 scan the table 222 indication colunm 220 for the empty incre-
example, there may be individual tables 210 for the head ment location 212. Once the empty increment location is
section angle, foot section angle, vibration motor character- found, the PLC may command the adjustable bed function to
istics, or the like. In an embodiment, the PLC may be able to the recall position, vibration, or other adjustable bed facility
access the adjustable bed facility 102 settings by accessing 102 fnnction. In an embodiment, if the user stores a different
large tables 210 that contain many columns, small tables 210 30 current position value, the empty discrete location 212 may
that contain a few colunms, a combination oflarge and small be filled with an indication and the new indication associated
tables 210, or the like. to the current position value may have the indication 214
In an embodiment, the PLC may store the tables 210 within removed. In an embodiment, the user may be able to clear the
the PLC memory for accessing the settings of the adjustable stored position by indicating a clear command and all of the
bed facility 102. In another embodiment, the table 222 may be 35 increment locations 212 may be filled with indications 214.
stored in memory outside of the PLC and the PLC may access In an embodiment, the available increment locations 212 in
the table 222 through an interface connection. The table 222 the indication colunm 220 of the table 222 may initially
increment colunm 210 may represent a plurality of available contain no indications 214 so that the indication colunm 220
positions associated with adjustable bed facility fnnctions. In may be empty. As a user indicates that a current position value
an embodiment, the increment values may be a measurement 40 is the position to be stored within the table 222, the indication
scale (e.g. inches or angle), may be the number of rotations of 214 associated to the current position value may be added to
the actuator, the vibration frequency of the vibration motor, or the table 222. This may result in one increment location 212
other increment scale. In response to a user input, the indica- having an indication. In this case, when a user requests to
tion colunm 220 may be marked with the indication 214 to return to recall value position, the PLC may scan the table 222
represent the position intended by the user. When the user 45 indication column 220 for the increment location 212 con-
makes a request to save a position, the PLC may search the taining the indication 214 associated with the recall value.
increment colunm 210 to detennine which of the plurality of Once the increment location is fonnd, the PLC may command
increments 212 represents the current position value of the the adjustable bed function to the recall value position, posi-
adjustable bed facility 102 section. Once the current position tion, vibration, or other adjustable bed facility 102 fnnction.
value increment 212 within the table 222 is determined, an 50 In an embodiment, if the user stores a different position, the
indication 214 may be stored to the indication column 220 increment location 212 indication 214 may be removed and
associated to the current position value increment 212. In an the new current position value may have the indication 214
embodiment, the indication 214 may be any character that added. In an embodiment, the user may be able to clear the
may represent a position being selected such as a letter, a stored position by indicating a clear command and all of the
number, special character, or the like. In embodiments, the 55 discrete locations 212 may have the indication 214 removed.
indication colunm 220 may include all indications, no indi- In an embodiment, when a user indicates a current position
cations, one indication, more than one indication, or the like value is to be indicated in the table 222, the indication may
to indicate the user's intended position. The storing of the represent the user's preferred adjustable bed facility 102 posi-
indication association of the current position value with the tion. In an embodiment, the user's indicated current position
user selected position may include adding a store indication 60 value may be rounded to the closest table 222 increment
to the table 222 entry representing the current position value, location 214. For example, if the user selects a current posi-
removing the current position value from the table 222 of tion value that is between two increment positions on the table
values, removing a plurality of the table 222 values where the 222, an algorithm may be used to detennine which of the
removal does not include removing the current position value, increment positions are to be indicated in the indication col-
adding a store indication to every table 222 entry except a 65 unm220.
table 222 entry representing the current position value, or the Embodiments of the present invention involve setting a
like. recall bed position in response to a user making a storage
US 8,682,457 B2
25 26
selection. The user's storage selection may send a command position 212. The additional non-markings 218 may be by
to the adjustable bed facility's 102 controller (e.g. the PLC) actuation time, section rotation angle, or the like. A person
indicating that the user would like the present position of the skilled in the art may understand that there may be any num-
adjustable bed facility 102 stored such that the user can later ber of different methods of unmarking more than one position
have the adjustable bed facility 102 return to the stored posi- 212 using a single button on the remote 148.
tion. The user may use a user interface (e.g. the remote control In an embodiment, with user preferred positions 212
148) and make such a storage selection once the adjustable unmarked 218 on the table 222, the user may indicate on the
bed facility 102 is in a desired position. As described herein remote 148 to recall the user preferred position 212. In an
elsewhere, a plurality of position values that define a range of embodiment, there may be an algorithm to search the table
available positions for the adjustable bed facility 102 may be
10 222 for an unmarked 218 user preferred position 212 to posi-
stored in memory accessible by the adjustable bed facility's
tion the bed to the recall value. Once the preferred position
102 controller. The available positions may be stored in a
212 is determined, the command logic may command the
table 222 or other structure for example. Once the user ini-
tiates such a storage request, the controller may receive the actuator or actuators to move the adjustable bed sections into
request to save the current adjustable bed facility 102 position 15 the preferred position 212 recall value. In an embodiment,
as a user selected position. The controller may then make a there may be more than one preferred position 212 unmarked
determination of which of the plurality of position values 218 on the table 222. In this case, the algorithm may seek the
represent the current position of the adjustable bed facility first unmarked 218 position 212 and move the adjustable bed
102 to provide a current position value. In determining which section to that position. In an embodiment, if this is not the
of the plurality of position values represents the current posi- 20 user desired position, the user may indicate again on the
tion, the controller may use an algorithm to decide which of remote to recall a preferred position and the algorithm may
the plurality of values best represents the current adjustable seek the next unmarked 218 position 212. A person skilled in
bed facility 102 position. For example, the actual adjustable the art may understand that there may be a nnmber of different
bed facility 102 position may match one of the values and the methods of recalling a plurality of marked 214 or unmarked
algorithm may then select the matching value as the one that 25 218 positions 212 from the table 222.
best represents the current position. In another situation, the Referring again to FIG. 1, in an embodiment, the remov-
actual adjustable bed facility 102 position may not match any able bed memory 154 may be used to upgrade the adjustable
of the plurality of values. In this case an algorithm may be bed facility 102 memory and software. For example, if new
used to determine which value best represents the position of control box 134 software was developed to provide better
the adjustable bed facility 102. The algorithm may run an 30 control over one of the adjustable bed facility 102 compo-
averaging calculation, interpolation calculation or other form nents, the software may be saved to a new replaceable
of prediction algorithm to select between two positions rep- memory that may replace the existing replaceable memory. In
resenting positions on either side of the actual adjustable bed this mamler, the software of the adjustable bed facility 102
facility 102 position, for example. Once the controller has could be upgraded just by providing the user with a new
made the determination as to which value represents the 35 replaceable memory.
current adjustable bed facility 102 position, the controller In an embodiment, the removable memory may be used to
may then store an association of the current position value provide a sales enterprise with adjustable bed facility 102
with the user-selected position (e.g. as described elsewhere demonstration software where the enterprise may be able to
herein). indicate at least one of a plurality of demonstrations for a user.
The embodiment of unmarking 218 preferred positions 40 For example, the user may be interested in how the adjustable
will be used in the following illustrations, but it should be bed facility 102 sections may be adjusted and the enterprise
understood that marking a current position value may also be may select a demonstration to shows all the section motion
used as a method of indicating a preferred position 212. available. In an embodiment, before an adjustable bed facility
In an embodiment, the user may indicate the current posi- 102 is shipped to a user, the enterprise may remove the dem-
tion value by indicating a set position on the remote 148; this 45 onstration removable memory and replace it with a standard
indication may result in all of the possible increment loca- adjustable bed facility 102 bed memory 154.
tions 212 having an indication 214 except for the one incre- In an embodiment, the memory connection 160 may be any
ment the user has selected which may be non-marked 218. For connection type that provides a connection between the bed
example, if the user selected the P3 position 212 as a preferred memory 154, control box 134, and the like. In an embodi-
position, all of the positions 212 may receive a mark 214 50 ment, the memory connection 160 may be a wired or wireless
except the one position P3 which may receive a non-mark connection. The wired connection may be a USB connection,
218. a serial connection, parallel connection, or the like. The wire-
In an embodiment, the positioning recall position logic of less connection may be by radio frequency (RF), infrared
the adjustable bed may seek possible positions 212 that do not (IR), Bluetooth, or the like. In an embodiment, the memory
have a mark 218 when determining what user positions to 55 connection 160 may be in a location that is easy for the user to
select. access the bed memory 154, may be attached to the memory
In an embodiment, the user may be able to set more than facility 150, may be attached to the control box 134, or the
one increment position 212 in the table 222 for a single button like. In an embodiment, the easy access memory connection
on the remote 148. For example, the user may be able to press may be on the side of the adjustable bed facility 102, on a rail
a button on the remote 148 in a certain way to set a non-mark 60 of the adjustable bed facility 102, under the adjustable bed
218 at different preferred positions 212. In another example, facility 102, or the like.
when the user presses a button on the remote 148, the current In an embodiment, the control box 134 may also access a
position value may be unmarked 218 as a preferred position network using a network connection 162. In an embodiment,
and an algorithm may be executed to unmark 218 other pre- the network may be a LAN, WAN, Internet, intranet, peer-to-
ferred positions 212 at certain increments from the user 65 peer, or other network with computer devices that the control
selected position. In one example of the algorithm, every 3 rd box 134 may communicate with. In an embodiment, the net-
position may be selected to be unmarked 218 as a preferred work connection 162 may be a wired or wireless connection.
US 8,682,457 B2
27 28
In an embodiment, using the network connection 162, the In an embodiment, using the remote 148, the control box
control box 134 may be able to communicate with the net- 134 may be able to control power outlets 138 to which exter-
work to periodically check for application software updates. nal devices may be connected; the power outlets may be
In an embodiment, if an application software update is associated with the adjustable bed facility 102, remote from
located, the control box 134 may send the user an email, the adjustable bed facility 102, or the like. In an embodiment,
instant messenger message, phone message, phone call, cell the control box may communicate with the power outlet using
phone message, cell phone call, fax, pager message, or the wired or wireless communications. In this embodiment, the
like to indicate that software updates are available. The user, power outlets 138 may receive power directly from a house-
using the device that received the notice of software update, hold outlet, fuse box, circuit box, or the like but the function
may send a reply to the control box that the software upgrade 10 of the power outlets 138 (e.g. on or off) may be controlled by
should be downloaded, should not be downloaded, or the like. the control box 134. For example, an external lamp may be
In an embodiment, an adjustable bed facility 102 enter- connected to the power outlets 138, there may be a selectable
prise, an adjustable bed facility 102 manufacturer, an adjust- control on the remote 148 for the user to turn the power outlet
able bed facility 102 service enterprise, or the like may send 15 138 on and off and therefore to turn the lamp on and off. In an
the control box 134 software updates using the network con- embodiment, the power outlets 138 may include a control
nection 162. In an embodiment, an adjustable bed facility 102 circuit that is able to control if the power outlet 138 receives
enterprise, an adjustable bed facility 102 manufacturer, an power from the household current. In an embodiment, there
adjustable bed facility 102 service enterprise, or the like may may be more than one power outlet controlled by the control
notify the user of available software upgrades for the adjust- 20 box 134 and there may be a selection for each of the power
able bed facility 102 by email, instant messenger message, outlets 138 on the remote 148.
phone message, phone call, cell phone message, cell phone In an embodiment, the power outlets 138 may be directly
call,fax, pager message, or the like. The user, using the device controlled by the remote control 148 using radio frequency
that received the notice of software upgrade, may send a reply (RF). The remote control and power outlets may be RF
to the adjustable bed facility 102 enterprise, the adjustable 25 capable for communication within the adjustable bed facility
bed facility 102 manufacturer, the adjustable bed facility 102 102. The remote control 148 may be able to directly control
service enterprise, or the like that the software upgrade should the power outlets 138 to turn the power outlets on and off
be downloaded, should not be downloaded, or the like. using RF without interfacing with the control box 134.
In an embodiment, the user may access the network con- In an embodiment, the control box 134 may be able to
nection 162 with the user's own computer device. 30 control an external air purification 144 facility; the air puri-
In an embodiment, the remote 148 and control box 134 fication 144 facility may be directly controlled by the control
may be able to control other devices that may be connected to box using a wired or wireless connection. In an embodiment,
modular controls 132. In an embodiment, the modular con- the wireless connection may be radio frequency (RF), infra-
trols 132 may be similar to the control box by interpreting red (IR), Bluetooth, or the like. In an embodiment, the air
commands to control a device, but may be unique to the 35 purification facility 144 may be any type of device or facility
device that is connected to it. In an embodiment, the modular that may be capable of improving that air environment in the
controls 132 may control audio equipment, video equipment, area of the adjustable bed facility 102. In an embodiment, the
lamps, air purification facilities, outlets, and the like. For air purification facility 144 may be an absorbent type (e.g.
example, the modular control 132 may be connected to audio carbon), electro-static, HEPA filter, or the like. In an embodi-
equipment and may contain the command sequences to con- 40 ment, absorbent materials may be used in a filter, in the
trol the audio equipment based on commands that may be adjustable bed facility 102, in the mattress 110, or the like to
received from the remote 148. It may be obvious to someone absorbed odor, dust, contaminants, or the like from the air
in the art that any of the devices that are connected to modular environment around the bed, within the bed, or the like. In an
controls 132 may be controlled in the same manner. embodiment, electro-static or iconic air filters may use nega-
In an embodiment, the user may indicate a function to be 45 tive ions to attract dust, contaminants, and the like from the
accessed for a certain device connected to a modular control air. In an embodiment, electro-static materials (e.g. tourma-
132, the control box 134 may receive the request from the line) may be used in a filter, in the adjustable bed facility 102,
remote 148 and pass the command onto the appropriate in the mattress 110, or the like to absorbed odor, dust, con-
modular control 132. In an embodiment, the remote 148 may taminants, or the like from the air environment around the
have modular control 132 device functions that the user may 50 bed, within the bed, or the like. In an embodiment, HEPA
select to control a modular control 132 device. For example, filters are composed of a mat of randomly arranged fibers that
the remote 148 may have functions such as play, fast-forward, are designed to trap at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold,
rewind, skip, pause, and the like for an audio device con- bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3
nected to the modular control 132. micrometers (fllll) at 85 liters per minute (Lpm). The HEPA
In an embodiment, the modular controls 132 may be con- 55 filter may be used in a device, facility, or the like for filtering
nected to the control box 134 and power supply 140 using a the air in the area of the adjustable bed facility 102.
wire harness 128. The wire harness 128 may contain power In an embodiment, the air purification facility 144 may be
and data connections for all of the possible connection loca- part of the adjustable bed facility 102, a freestanding device or
tions for the modular controls 132. For example, if there are facility, or the like. In an embodiment, if the air purification
six locations on the adjustable bed facility 102 for attaching 60 facility 144 is part of the adjustable bed facility 102 the air
modular controls 132, the wire harness 128 may have six sets purification facility 144 may be attached to any part of the
of power and data connections available. adjustable bed facility 102 such as the mattress 110, sub-
In another embodiment, the wire harness may provide only frame 112, skeleton structure 114, or the like. In an embodi-
power to the modular controls 132 and the communication ment, the air purification facility 144 that is attached to the
between the modular controls 132 and control box 134 may 65 adjustable bed facility 102 may be controlled direct control of
be wireless that may include radio frequency (RF), infrared the air purification facility 144 device, control using the
(IR), Bluetooth, and the like. remote 148, or the like.
US 8,682,457 B2
29 30
In an embodiment, the air purification facility 144 may be In an embodiment, the actuator 104 may have different
a free standing device that may be plugged into a adjustable driving means to extend and retract the actuator 104 such as
bed facility 102 power outlet 138 and therefore may be con- an electric motor, pneumatic pressure, hydraulic pressure, or
trolled with the remote 148 controlling the on/off condition of the like.
the power outlet 138. In an embodiment, the electric motor driven actuator 104
In an embodiment, the air purification facility 144 may be may use a DC or AC motor and gear assembly to extend and
a freestanding device that may be connected to an adjustable retract the actuator 104.
bed facility 102 modular control 128. The modular control In an embodiment, the pneumatic pressure actuator 104
may provide power (AC or DC), control communication, and may use an air source to extend and retract the actuator 104.
The air source may be part of the pneumatic actuator 104, may
the like to the air purification facility 114. In an embodiment, 10
be a separate device, or the like. In an embodiment, the
the user may be able to control the air purification facility 144
separate air source device may be part of the adjustable bed
using the remote 148 to control the modular controls 132.
facility 102 or may be external to the adjustable bed facility
In an embodiment, an adjustable bed facility 102 may be 102.
any bed that is capable of adjusting at least one aspect of the 15
In an embodiment, the hydraulic pressure actuator 104 may
bed such as a head section, a foot section, a leg section, a torso use a fluid source to extend and retract the actuator 104. The
section, or the like. In an embodiment, the adjustment may fluid source may be part of the hydraulic actuator 104, may be
include moving the sections up, down, higher, lower, longer, a separate device, or the like. In an embodiment, the separate
shorter, and the like. In an embodiment, the section adjust- fluid source device may be part of the adjustable bed facility
ments may also include vibration, massage, and the like. In an 20 102 or may be external to the adjustable bed facility 102.
embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 may include In an embodiment, springs 108 may be used with a mattress
components such as actuators 104, springs 108, a mattress 110, instead of a mattress 110, or the like. In an embodiment,
110, a sub-frame 112, a skeleton structure 114, vibration the springs may be a standard bed spring system (e.g. coils
motors 118, supports 120, safety brackets 122, wire harness within a wire framework), individual coil springs, individual
128, receiver 130 modular controls 132, control box 134, 25 foam springs, air springs, or the like. In an embodiment, the
power outlets 138, power supply 140, power connection 142, individual springs (e.g. coil, foam, or air) may be used to
air purification facility 144, remote control 148, receiver learn provide variable firnmess to provide comfort to the user. For
facility 152, bed memory 154, backup battery 158, memory example, the springs 108 may be less firm or firmer in a local
connection 160, network connection 162, and the like. area to provide the user with the support that may be required
In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 sections 30
for a body location that is experiencing discomfort (e.g. a hip,
shoulder, back, neck).
may be adjustable by a user, a care giver, a medical person, or
In an embodiment, the mattress 11 0 may include foam,
the like to provide a comfortable position, a medical required
feathers, springs 108, material, or the like. In an embodiment
position, a working position, a resting position, or the like.
the different materials may be used individually or in combi-
For example, a medical position may be required to have a 35
nation. The mattress may be intended to provide the user with
user's legs elevated to aid in the reduction of swelling and a firnmess that provides for the comfort requirements of the
therefore the leg or foot sections may be elevated. In another user.
example, a user with a back condition may need to rest his or In an embodiment, the mattress 110 may be an air mattress.
her back and may still wish to work, the user may be able to In an embodiment, the air mattress may be constructed using
position the adjustable bed facility 102 to provide a comfort- 40 a single chamber, a plurality of chambers, a plurality of indi-
able back position that allows the user to work on papers or a vidual chambers, a combination of chamber shapes, or the
computer device. like. In an embodiment, the air mattress 110 may be inflated
In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 may be to various pressures that may provide the user with the desired
used in a home, a hospital, a long-term care facility, or the comfort level. In an embodiment, there may be separate air
like. The adjustable bed facility 102 may be used by users that 45 mattresses 110 for each of the adjustable bed facility 102
may have limited mobility, are restricted to bed rest, require a sections. For example, there may be separate air mattresses
non-flat sleeping position, and the like. 110 for the head, torso, and foot sections of the adjustable bed
In an embodiment, actuators 104 may be used to move the facility 102. In an embodiment, the inflation pressure of the
adjustable bed facility 102 sections. The actuator 104 may individual air mattresses 11 0 may be different from each
typically be a cylinder device where a first component, under 50
other depending on user settings.
a force, is extendable from second component that may result In another embodiment of an air mattress 110 with indi-
vidual chambers, local firnmess control may provide local
in the action of moving an object. In an embodiment, there
firnmess comfort to a user to provide comfort. For example, a
may be more than one actuator 104 per adjustable bed facility
user may be recovering from surgery and may require the air
102. There may be an actuator 104 to move any of the adjust- 55
mattress 110 to be less firm in a certain area, the user may be
able bed facility 102 sections or other aspects of the adjustable to indicate the area to be less firm and the individual
able bed facility 102. For example, there may be individual chamber pressures may be adjusted to provide the less firm
actuators for the head section, leg section, foot section, torso area. Additionally, while a local area may be provided with a
section, or the like. In an embodiment, a single actuator may less firm pressures, the remainder of the mattress 110 may
be used to move more than one adjustable bed facility 102 60 have a consistent firnmess pressure.
section. For example, one actuator may be used to move the In an embodiment, the sub-frame 112 may be a structural
leg and foot sections; the leg and foot sections may be con- support frame in contact with the floor and may include the
nected by a mechanical structure that may control the orien- floor legs, connections for the actuators 104, connections for
tation of the leg and foot sections during movement. In an the supports 120, support for the skeleton structure 114, and
embodiment, the actuators 104 may be connected between 65 the like. In an embodiment, the sub-frame 112 materials may
the adjustable bed facility 102 section to be moved and the include wood, metal, plastic, and the like. In an embodiment,
sub-frame 112, skeleton structure 114, or the like. the sub-frame 112 may provide a support interface to the
US 8,682,457 B2
31 32
skeleton structure 114 and may support the freedom of be understood by one knowledgeable in the art that different
motion for the skeleton structure 114. For example, the sub- effects may be created with more than one vibration facility
frame 112 may include an interface such as a track, surface, 118.
groove, slot, or the like in which the skeleton structure 114 In an embodiment, using the remote 148, the user may be
may interface and use as a guide while providing motion able to control the vibration mode of the various vibration
support for the various adjustable bed facility 102 sections. In motors 118; the mode may include the vibration setting for a
an embodiment, the sub-frame 112 interface may be a "C" particular bed section, the vibration frequency of at least one
channel in which the skeleton structure 114 may have inter- of the vibration motors 118, stopping the vibration of at least
facing wheels to move within the "C" channel during the one of the vibration motors, or the like. The remote 148 may
provide vibration motor 118 control information to the
adjustable bed facility 102 section movements. 10
adjustable bed facility 102 control box 134 for control of the
In an embodiment, the sub-frame 112 may be substantially
vibration characteristics of the adjustable bed facility 102. In
the same shape as the adjustable bed facility 102 and may
an embodiment, the remote 148 may include user inputs that
have structural members along the length and width of the include at least one of head vibration increase, head vibration
sub-frame 112. In an embodiment, the structural members 15
decrease, foot vibration increase, foot vibration decrease,
may be assembled in any configuration that meets the require- user preferred vibration settings, vibration stop, or the like.
ments of supporting the adjustable bed facility 102 and the In an embodiment, the vibration motor 118 may be capable
various devices such as the actuators 104, supports 120, skel- of a plurality of vibration frequencies. For example, the vibra-
eton structure 114, and the like. tion motor 118 may be able to operate on frequencies such as
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114 may be a 20 high, medium, low, settings 1-10, or the like. In an embodi-
mechanical structure that may provide support to the springs ment, a first vibration frequency may be stopped before a
108, provide support to the mattress 110, interface with the second vibration frequency is started. In embodiments, the
sub-frame 112, provide a connection to the actuators 104, stopping between the first vibration and the second vibration
provide a connection to the supports 120, support the vibra- may be automatic and controlled by the logic within the
tion motors 118, and the like. In an embodiment, there may be 25 control box 134, may be manually indicated by the user using
more than one skeleton structure 114 within the adjustable the remote 148, or the like. As an example of manual input,
bed facility 102; there may be a skeleton structure 114 for the vibration motor 118 may be operating on a medium fre-
each adjustable bed facility 102 section. For example, there quency and the user may provide a stop vibration input on the
may be a skeleton structure 114 for the head section, foot remote 148 to stop the first vibration motor 118 vibration
section, leg section, torso section, and the like. 30 before pressing the low vibration frequency input.
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114 may be a Referring to FIG. SA and FIG. 5B, an embodiment of a
frame type structure to support at least one mattress 110, vibration motor 118 is shown within an opening of a adjust-
provide connectivity between more than one mattress 110, able bed facility 102 support lateral surface 508. The adjust-
contain a hinge mechanism to allow the motion of a first able bed facility 102 section may have a lateral surface 508
mattress 110 in relation to a second mattress 110, and the like. 35 and the lateral surface 508 may include an opening in which
The frame structure may be substantially the same shape as the vibration motor 118 may be located; the vibration motor
the mattress 110 that the skeleton structure 114 is supporting 118 may fit within the opening such that the vibration motor
and may have individual structure members at the peripheral 118 may not contact the lateral surface 508. In an embodi-
edges of the mattress 110 in addition to other individual ment, the vibration motor 118 may be secured to the adjust-
structural members that may be required for support of 40 able bed facility 102 section using at least one bracket 504. In
mechanical connections, support of the mattress 110, or the an embodiment, when more than one bracket 504 is used, at
like. In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114 may least one of the brackets 504 may be separable and removable.
include materials such as metal, wood, plastic, and the like. In an embodiment, the at least one bracket 504 may be shaped
The skeleton structure 114 materials may be used individu- to secure the vibration motor 118 within the section opening
ally or in combination. 45 such as a straight bracket, a U shaped bracket, an L shaped
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114 may have an bracket, or the like; in FIG. SA and FIG. 5B the bracket 504 is
interface facility such as wheels, slides, skids, rails, pivot shown as a straight bracket 504. In an embodiment, the
points, and the like that may interface with the sub-frame 112 removal of one of the brackets 504 may facilitate securing the
support interface. The skeleton structure 114 interface facility vibration motor 118 to the bed section, facilitating the servic-
may provide for smooth interaction with the sub-frame 112 50 ing of the vibration motor 118, or the like. The bracket 504
support interface when the skeleton structure 114 is in motion may be positioned such that at least one portion of the bracket
as a result of actuation from the actuators 104. 504 is within the opening of the lateral surface 508 and may
In an embodiment, a vibration facility 118 may provide also be positioned such that the bracket 504 may overlap the
vibration input to the adjustable bed facility 102 sections such vibration motor 118 flange. The vibration motor 118 flange
as the head section, foot section, leg section, torso section, 55 may extend beyond the perimeter of the opening of the mat-
and the like; there may be vibration facilities in any or all of tress support and the resilient material 502 may provide posi-
the adjustable bed facility 102 sections. In an embodiment, tional support for the vibration motor 118 so that the flange
the vibration facilities 118 may be operated independently, at imparts vibration to the mattress 110 without contacting the
the same time, at alternate times, in coordination, or the like. mattress support. The at least one bracket 504 may be coupled
For example, the vibration facilities in the head section and 60 to the mattress support 508 using a removable coupling.
foot section may be operated at the same time to provide a full Removing the at least one bracket may facilitate removing
body massage or the vibration frequencies may operate at and servicing the motor. The resilient material 502 may pro-
alternating times to provide a wave effect of the vibration vide mechanical insulation between the flange and the perim-
moving from the head to foot of the adjustable bed facility eter of the opening in the mattress support 508. The resilient
102. In another example, the different vibration facilities 118 65 material 502 disposed between the flange and the lateral
may be used in concert where the vibration facilities 118 may support 508 surface of the at least one bracket 504 may further
be vibrated in sequences to create a massaging effect. It may provide positional support for the vibration motor 118 hous-
US 8,682,457 B2
33 34
ing. The bracket 504 may be constructed using material such the vibration characteristics of the vibration motor 118 and
as plastic, metal or the like and may be constructed using the may have a size and shape relative to the size and shape of the
materials individually or in combination. In an embodiment, adjustable bed facility 102 section. The vibration distribution
there may be a resilient material 502 associated with the facility may be constructed using materials such as plastic,
brackets 504, the resilient material may provide for dampen- rubber, metal, or the like and may be constructed using these
ing the vibration between the vibration motor 118 and the materials individually or in combination. In an embodiment,
adjustable bed facility 102, may contact the vibration motor the user may be able to control the speed, amplitude, pulse,
118 to secure the vibration motor 118 to the bed section, may and the like of the vibration facility 118 using an interface
provide for dampening of vibration to the adjustable bed such as the remote 148.
facility 102 and hold the vibration motor 118 in place, or the 10
In an embodiment, the vibrator facility 118 may be
like. The resilient material 502 may include latex foam, poly-
mounted to the mattress 110 using the vibration distribution
urethane foam, polypropylene foam, polyethylene foam, or
facility, resilient material 502, strong fabric, or the like. In an
the like and may be used individually or in combination.
In an embodiment, the vibration facility 118 may be con- embodiment, each adjustable bed facility 102 section that
nected to the skeleton structure 114, the mattress 110, the 15
includes a vibrator facility 118 may have an opening in the
lateral surface 508, or the like where the vibration may be section to accept the vibrator facility 118. In an embodiment,
imparted into the adjustable bed facility 102 mattress 110 as over the opening in the section, a layer of resilient material
desired by the user. In an embodiment, the vibration motor 502, strong fabric, or the like may be placed. The layer of
118 flange may provide surface area that may impart a vibra- resilient material 502, strong fabric, or the like may be placed
tion into the mattress 110. In an embodiment, the vibration 20 between the vibrator facility 118 and the mattress 110. In an
motor 118 may be secured to the adjustable bed facility 102 embodiment, the vibrator facility 118 may impart vibrations
section using two separable brackets; at least one of the two to a mattress 110 through the resilient material 502 disposed
separable brackets may be removable. In an embodiment, the over an opening in an adjustable bed facility 102 section. In an
removal of one of the brackets may facilitate securing the embodiment, a fabric cover may be disposed over the resilient
vibration motor 118 to the bed section, facilitating the servic- 25 material 502 and/or an adjustable bed facility 102 section,
ing of the vibration motor 118, or the like. The bracket may be between the vibrator facility 118 and the mattress 110. In
constructed using a material such as plastic, metal, or the like embodiments, a plurality of fabric covers may be disposed
and may be constructed using the materials individually or in over the resilient material 502 and/or an adjustable bed facil-
combination. In an embodiment, there may be a resilient ity 102 section to provide stabilization. In an embodiment, the
material attached to the brackets, the resilient material may 30 vibrator facility 118 may impart vibrations to a mattress 110
provide for a dampening the vibration between the vibration through a resilient material 502 and a fabric or plurality of
motor 118 and the adjustable bed facility 102, may contact the fabrics covering the resilient material 502 and/or adjustable
vibration motor 118 to secure the vibration motor 118 to the bed facility 102 section.
bed section, or the like. For example, the brackets may be In an embodiment, the resilient material 502 may be foam,
attached to the adjustable bed facility 102 section with the 35 cotton matting, or the like. In an embodiment, the vibration
resilient material making contact with the vibration motor distribution facility may be plastic, wood, rubber, metal, or
118 that may be in an opening of the section. The resilient the like and may be any size and/or shape that supports the
material may provide the force required to hold the vibration required vibration characteristics. The vibration distribution
motor in place within the section opening and may provide facility may have a plurality of barbs or other anchoring
dampening of the vibration to the adjustable bed facility. The 40 devices that may be pushed into the resilient material, strong
resilient material may include latex foam, polyurethane foam, fabric, or the like to secure the vibration distribution facility in
polypropylene foam, polyethylene foam, or the like and may place on top of the resilient material, strong fabric, or the like.
be used individually or in combination. In an embodiment, the barbs or other anchoring devices may
In an embodiment, the electric motor vibration facility 118 have a number of gripping edges, points, or the like to provide
may use DC or AC current to power the motor. In an embodi- 45 a connection with the resilient material and strong fabric.
ment' to provide the vibration, the motor may rotate an offset In an embodiment, the vibrator facility 118 may be
mass on the motor shaft that may cause the vibration facility mounted to the vibration distribution facility through the
118, mattress 110, skeleton structure 114, or the like to opening of the adjustable bed facility 102 section lateral
vibrate. The user may feel the vibration through the mattress surface 508. In an embodiment, the vibration motor 118 may
110, springs 108, or the like. 50 be operatively connected to the vibration distribution facility,
In an embodiment, an air bladder or air spring may be used may be in contact with the vibration distribution facility, may
to provide a vibration to the adjustable bed facility 102. In an not be in contact with the vibration distribution facility, or the
embodiment, the air bladder or air spring air pressure may be like. In an embodiment, there may be a layer of resilient
varied at a frequency to create a vibration within the vibration material, strong fabric, or the like between the vibrator motor
facility 118, mattress 110, skeleton structure 114, or the like. 55 118 and the vibration distribution facility.
In an embodiment, there may be an air supply unit that sup- In an embodiment, any space between the vibration facility
plies the frequency varied air pressure to the air bladder or air 118 and the opening of the adjustable bed facility 102 section
spring. may be filled with a vibration absorbent material such as
In an embodiment, the vibration motor 118 may be in foam, cotton matting, rubber, or the like. The absorbent mate-
proximity to a vibration distribution facility that may aid in 60 rial may provide a layer of vibration insulation between the
the propagation of vibration energy to the adjustable bed vibration facility 118 and the adjustable bed facility 102
facility 102 section. In an embodiment, the vibration motor section opening.
118 may be operatively connected to the vibration distribu- In an embodiment, the combination of the vibration distri-
tion facility, may be in contact with the vibration distribution bution facility and vibration facility 118 may be a vibration
facility, may not be in contact with the vibration distribution 65 facility assembly. In an embodiment, the vibration facility
facility, or the like. In an embodiment, the vibration distribu- 118 assembly may be attached to the adjustable bed facility
tion facility may provide for a more uniform distribution of 118 sections with the plurality of barbs or anchoring devices.
US 8,682,457 B2
35 36
Referring again to FIG. 1, in an embodiment, the supports plied may be individual components, may be combined into a
120 may be hydraulic pressurized cylinders that may provide single component, may be a combination of individual and
additional control of the decent of the adjustable bed facility combined components, or the like. In an embodiment, the
102 sections. The pressurized supports 120 may be designed various electronic facility 124 components may be mounted
to support a certain amount of weight that may include the on the sub-frame 112, skeleton structure 114, or the like as
skeleton structure 114, mattress 110, springs 108, user, and required for the particular component.
the like. In an embodiment, the pressurized cylinders may be In an embodiment, the wire harness 128 may provide
similar to the type of supports that are used in automobile power and data connections to a plurality of modular controls
trunks to support the trunk open while the user access the 132. Depending on the power supply 140, the wire harness
trunk area. 10 may provide either DC or AC power to the modular controls
In an embodiment, the supports 120 may provide a safety 132. In an embodiment, the data connections may be serial,
feature when combined with the safety bracket 112. The parallel, or the like. In an embodiment, the wire harness may
safety bracket 122 may prevent the actuators from forcibly have the same number of power/data connections as there are
pulling the adjustable bed facility 102 sections down; the possible modular controls 132. In an embodiment, the wire
safety bracket is described in more detail below. The supports 15 harness may be a nnit of power!data connections that may be
120 may be positioned on the sections that are actuated and bound together into a single wire harness. In another embodi-
may provide a controlled speed at which the sections will ment' the wire harness may be a group of individual power!
return to a horizontal position. In an embodiment, the support data connections. In an embodiment, for each individual wire
120 may provide support of a weight that is less than the in the bundle, group, or the like, a first end may have connec-
weight of the section, therefore the section will provide 20 tions for the control box 134 and power supply 140.A second
enough force (e.g. weight) on the support 120 to compress the end of the wire harness 128 may be a power and data connec-
cylinder and move the section down. In an embodiment, there tion for each individual modular control 132.
may be more than one support 120 for each actuated adjust- In an embodiment, a receiver 130 may receive user com-
able bed facility 102 section. In an embodiment, the support mands from a remote control 148. In an embodiment, the
120 may be connected between the skeleton structure 114 and 25 receiver 130 may have a wireless or wired connection to the
the sub-frame 112. remote 148. In an embodiment, the wireless remote 148 to
In an embodiment, the safety bracket 122 may be a slotted receiver 130 communication may be a radio frequency (RF)
bracket that provides the connection between the actuators communication, infrared (IR) commnnication, Bluetooth
104 and the skeleton structure 114 for the purpose of moving communication, or the like. In an embodiment, the receiver
the adjustable bed facility 102 sections. A side of the slot that 30 130 may receive the commnnication command from the
is farthest from the actuator 104 may be the slot first side and remote 148 and transmit the remote 148 command to the
may be the side that the actuator 104 pushes on to move the control box 134. The commnnication with the control box
adjustable bed 102 section up.A side of the slot that is nearest 134 may be wireless or wired. In an embodiment, the wireless
to the actuator 104 may be the slot second side and may be the communication between the receiver 130 and the control box
side the actuator 104 pulls on to move the adjustable bed 102 35 134 may be a radio frequency (RF) commnnication, infrared
section down. In an embodiment, when the actuator 104 is (IR) communication, Bluetooth commnnication, or the like.
expanding and moving an adjustable bed facility 102 section In an embodiment, the receiver 130 may be combined with
it may apply a force on the first side of the slot and move the the control box 134 into a single component. In an embodi-
section in an upward direction. When the actuator 104 is ment, the skeleton structure 114 may be used as an RF
retracted to move the section in a downward direction, the 40 antenna for receiving communication from the remote 148 to
actuator 104 connection may move into the middle area (e.g. the receiver 13 O. In embodiment, the entire skeleton structure
not in contact with the first or second side of the slot) of the 114 may be used as an antenna, a portion of the skeleton
safety bracket 122 slot. As the actuator 104 connection moves structure 114 may be used as an antenna, or the like.
into the slot middle area, the adjustable bed facility 102 In an embodiment, the modular controls 132 may provide
section may move in a downward motion under the force of 45 additional functionality to the adjustable bed facility 102 that
section weight. In an embodiment, the actuator 104 may may include a stereo, a CD player, an MP3 player, a DVD
retract at the same speed as the safety bracket 122 moves, player, a lamp, power outlets 138, an air purification facility
therefore the actuator 104 connection may stay in the safety 144, or the like. The additional functionality that the modular
bracket 122 slot middle area and not make contact with the controls 132 provide may be considered optional equipment
second side of the safety bracket 122 slot. In this manner, the 50 that may be offered with the adjustable bed facility 102. For
actuator 104 connection may not contact the second side of example, a user may be able to purchase an adjustable bed
the slot and therefore the adjustable bed 102 section may not facility 102 without any modular controls 132 and may add
move in the downward direction by the force of the actuator modular controls as he or she desires. In another example, the
104. user may purchase the adjustable bed facility 102 with modu-
In an embodiment, if the actuator 104 connection comes in 55 lar controls already installed. In an embodiment, the modular
contact with the second side of the safety bracket 122 slot, controls 132 may have predetermined mounting locations on
there may be a shutoff switch, shutoff indicator, or the like the sub-frame 112, skeleton structure 114, or the like.
that may stop the retraction of the actuator 104. In an embodiment, the modular controls 132 may directly
In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 may control devices, indirectly control devices, or the like. For
include an electronic facility 124. In an embodiment, the 60 example, the modular control 132 may directly control a lamp
electronic facility 124 may include a wire harness 128, a that is connected to the modular control 132 but may indi-
receiver 130, power outlets 138, modular controls 132, a rectly control a device or facility that is plugged into an outlet
power supply 140, a power connection 142, and the like. In an 138 controlled by the modular control 132. The devices and
embodiment, different components of the electronic facility facilities may include a stereo, CD player, DVD player, air
124 may be individual components, combined components, 65 purification facilities, or the like may receive power from
individual and combined components, or the like. For power outlets 138 that are controlled by the modular control
example, the receiver 130, control box 134, and power sup- 132. In this example, the user control of the power outlet 138
US 8,682,457 B2
37 38
to tum the device on or off but the user may not be able to received from the control box 134. In an embodiment, the
control the individual device (e.g. the volume of stereo). In an control box 134 may receive commands for the power outlet
embodiment, the user may control the additional function 138 control from the remote 148.
devices by using the remote 148 that may have an interface for In an embodiment, the power connection 142 may receive
each of the modular controls 132. For example, there may be standard power for the adjustable bed facility 102 from a
an interface on the remote 148 for turning on a lamp, turning standard outlet, fuse box, circuit box, or the like. In an
off a lamp, dimming a lamp, and the like. In a similar manner, embodiment, the power connection 142 may provide stan-
the user may be able to control if a power outlet 138 provided dard AC power to the power outlets 138, the power supply
by a modular control 132 is on or off. 140, or the like.
In an embodiment, the modular controls 132 may be con- 10 In an embodiment, the air purification facility 144 may be
nected to the control box 134, power supply 140, or the like; any type of device or facility that may be capable of improv-
the connection may be the wire harness 128. In an embodi- ing that air environment in the area of the adjustable bed
ment, the modular controls 132 may communicate with the facility 102. In an embodiment, the air purification facility
control box 134 by a wireless means that may include radio 144 may be an absorbent type (e.g. carbon), electro-static,
frequency (RF), infrared (IR), Bluetooth, or other wireless 15 HEPA filter, or the like. In an embodiment, absorbent mate-
communication type. rials may be used in a filter, in the adjustable bed facility 102,
In an embodiment, the control box 134 may interpret com- in the mattress 110, or the like to absorbed odor, dust, con-
mands received from the receiver 130 into commands for the taminants, or the like from the air environment around the
various adjustable bed facility 102 components such as the bed, within the bed, or the like. In an embodiment, electro-
actuators 104, the vibration facility 118, the modular controls 20 static or iconic air filters may use negative ions to attract dust,
132, power outlets 138, and the like. In an embodiment, the contaminants, and the like from the air. In an embodiment,
control box 134 may contain a microprocessor, microcontrol- electro-static materials (e.g. tourmaline) may be used in a
ler, or the like to run a software application to interpret the filter, in the adjustable bed facility 102, in the mattress 110, or
commands received from the remote 148 through the receiver the like to absorbed odor, dust, contaminants, or the like from
130. In an embodiment, the software application may be 25 the air environment around the bed, within the bed, or the like.
interrupt based, polling based, or other application method In an embodiment, HEPA filters are composed of a mat of
for determining when a user has selected a command on the randomly arranged fibers that are designed to trap at least
remote 148. In an embodiment, the software application may 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne
be stored in the control box 134, stored in bed memory 154, or particles with a size of 0.3 micrometers (fllll) at 85 liters per
the like and may be stored as software, as firmware, as hard- 30 minute (Lpm). The HEPA filter may be used in a device,
ware, or the like. facility, or the like for filtering the air in the area of the
In an embodiment, the control box 134 may receive infor- adjustable bed facility 102.
mation from the receiver 130 by wired communication, wire- In an embodiment, the air purification facility 144 may be
less communication, or the like. In an embodiment, the wire- part of the adjustable bed facility 102, a freestanding device or
less communication may be by radio frequency (RF), infrared 35 facility, or the like. In an embodiment, if the air purification
(IR), Bluetooth, or other wireless communication type. facility 144 is part of the adjustable bed facility 102 the air
In an embodiment, after the control box 134 has interpreted purification facility 144 may be attached to any part of the
the received user commands, the control box 134 may trans- adjustable bed facility 102 such as the mattress 110, sub-
mit the interpreted commands to the various controllers for frame 112, skeleton structure 114, or the like. In an embodi-
the adjustable bed facility 102 components such as the actua- 40 ment, the air purification facility 144 that is attached to the
tors 104, vibrator facility 118, modular controls 132, power adjustable bed facility 102 may be controlled direct control of
outlets 138, and the like. The control box 134 may transmit the air purification facility 144, control using the remote 148,
information that may be further interpreted by the compo- or the like.
nents into commands for the individual components. For In an embodiment, the air purification facility 144 may be
example, the control box 134 may receive a command to 45 a free standing device that may be plugged into an adjustable
move the head section up. The control box 134 may interpret bed facility 102 power outlet 138 and therefore may be con-
the remote 148 command into a command the actuator may trolled with the remote 148 controlling the on/off condition of
understand and may transmit the command to extend the head the power outlet 138.
section actuator to move the head section up. In an embodiment, the air purification facility 144 may be
In an embodiment, the power supply 140 may receive 50 a freestanding device that may be connected to an adjustable
power from a standard wall outlet, fuse box, circuit box, or the bed facility 102 modular control 128. The modular control
like and may provide power to all the powered components of may provide power (AC or DC), control communication, and
the adjustable bed facility 102. In an embodiment, the power the like to the air purification facility 114. In an embodiment,
supply 140 may provide DC power or AC power to the com- the user may be able to control the air purification facility 144
ponents. In an embodiment, if the power supply 140 provides 55 using the remote 148 to control the modular controls 132.
DC power, the power supply 140 may convert the incoming In an embodiment, the remote 148 may be a user controlled
AC power into DC power for the adjustable bed facility 102. device to provide control commands to the control box 134 to
In an embodiment, the power outlets 138 may provide command certain functions of the adjustable bed facility 102.
standard householdAC current using a standard outlet for use In an embodiment, the certain functions may be adjustable
by external devices using a standard plug. In an embodiment, 60 bed facility section movement (e.g. up or down), vibration
the power outlets 138 may receive power directly from a control, modular controlled 132 devices, or the like. In an
standard wall outlet, a fuse box, a circuit box, or the like, but embodiment, the remote 148 may communicate with the
the control box 134 may control whether the power outlet 138 control box using wired communication, wireless communi-
on or off. In an embodiment, the power outlet 138 may have cation, or the like. In an embodiment, the wireless communi-
a control circuit that may determine if the power outlet 138 is 65 cation may be using a radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR),
active (on) or inactive (off). In an embodiment, the command Bluetooth, or the like. If the remote communicates using a
to indicate if the power outlet 138 is active or inactive may be wireless technology, the communication may be with the
US 8,682,457 B2
39 40
receiver 130 and the receiver 130 may pass the command was successful, failed, is in progress, in conflict with a com-
request to the control box 134. mand in progress, failed for safety reasons, or the like.
In an embodiment, the user may indicate the certain adjust- In an embodiment, a memory facility 150 may contain
able bed facility 102 function using the remote 148 by press- components that are intended to maintain certain memory
ing a button, touching a screen, entering a code, speaking a locations for the control box to access, receiver to access, and
command, or the like. In an embodiment, the control box 134, the like. In an embodiment, the memory facility 150 may
using the receiver 130, may receive and interpret the com- include a receiver learn facility 152, a bed memory 154, a
mand provided by the remote 148. In an embodiment, the backup battery 158, and the like. In an embodiment, the
certain functions available on the remote may instruct the receiver learn facility 152, bed memory 154, and backup
control box 134 to directly control a device (e.g. actuator 10 battery 158 may be in a single memory facility 150 or may be
104), control a modular control 132 counected device, or the in more than one memory facilities 150. In an embodiment,
like. The remote may control devices with commands that the memory facility 152 may be part of the adjustable bed
may include on, off, high power, medium power, low power, facility 102, part of the electronic facility 124, a separate
volume, play, fast forward, rewind, skip, modular device to facility, or the like. In an embodiment, the receiver learn
control, or the like. For example, the remote 148 may transmit 15 facility 152, bed memory 154, and backup battery 158 may
a command to move the head section up and the control box not be part of the memory facility 150, but may be combined
134 may command the actuator 104 to extend a certain into other facilities or devices, be stand-alone devices, or the
amount in response to the command. In another example, the like.
remote 148 may command that a modular control 132 con- In an embodiment, the receiver learn facility 152 may act to
nected lamp be turned off. The control box 134 may com- 20 establish the communication link between the remote 148 and
mand the control box 132 to tum off the lamp. the receiver 130 where the communication between the
In an embodiment, the remote 148 may save adjustable bed remote 148 and receiver 130 is a wireless connection. In an
facility 102 user preferred settings to a plurality of memory embodiment, the communication link between the remote
locations that may be used to maintain the user determined 148 and the receiver 130 may need to be a unique connection
bed position, an adjustable bed facility 102 historical setting, 25 to assure that the remote 148 communicates with only one
or the like. For example, the user may have a certain preferred receiver 130 within one adjustable bed facility 102. In an
adjustable bed facility 102 position that may be stored in at embodiment, the receiver learn facility 152 may be used to
least one of the memory locations that the user may be able to provide a unique communication between any remote 148
later recall to move the adjustable bed facility into the user and any adjustable bed facility 102. For example, a remote
preferred position. By indicating the recall of the at least one 30 148 may be used to communicate with a first adjustable bed
memory locations, the adjustable bed facility 102 control box facility 102 and may be used to establish communication
134 may command the various components to move to the between the same remote and a second adjustable bed facility
stored memory location position to achieve the recalled posi- 102. The remote 148 may only be able to communicate with
tion. In an embodiment, for a remote 148 that may contain one adjustable bed facility 102 at a time.
buttons, the user may press a single button, a combination of 35 In an embodiment, a learn protocol between the remote 148
buttons, or the like to recall the memory position desired. and receiver 130 may be user initiated by pressing a button on
In an embodiment, the remote 148 may have buttons, an the receiver learn facility 152, powering up the receiver learn
LCD screen, a plasma screen or the like to allow the user to facility 152, bringing the receiver learn facility 152 within a
indicate the desired command. In an embodiment, the user certain proximity of the receiver 13 0, indicating on the remote
may press a button to indicate a command to the control box 40 148 to begin the learn protocol, or the like. In an embodiment,
134. In an embodiment, the LCD or plasma screens may be the learn protocol may be fully automatic, semi-automatic
touch screen sensitive. In an embodiment, the remote 148 with user intervention, manual, or the like. In an embodiment,
screen may present the available controls to the user and the a user may select a charmel, frequency, or the like during learn
user may touch the screen to indicate the command desired. protocol or after the learn protocol. The changing of the
For example, the remote 148 screen may only present con- 45 channel, frequency, or the like may prevent two different
troIs that are available in the adjustable bed facility 102; remote 148 and receiver 130 combinations from interfering
therefore if a modular control 132 is not available, the remote with other wireless communication devices. In an embodi-
148 may not display a selection for that modular control 132. ment, each time the learn protocol is executed, a new unique
In an embodiment, the remote 148 screen may present content communication link may be established; there may be a plu-
sensitive selections to the user. For example, if the user 50 rality of unique communication links available for each
selected to control a CD player, the user may be presented remote 148 and receiver 130 combination.
with CD player controls that may include play, fast forward, In an embodiment, the bed memory 154 may be the
rewind, skip, stop, repeat, or the like. memory location where the control box 134 stores user
In an embodiment, the remote 148 may provide feedback desired preset information, software for interpreting remote
to the user to indicate the success of the certain command. In 55 148 commands, demonstration software, and the like. In an
an embodiment, the feedback may be an audio feedback, a embodiment, the bed memory 154 may be removable
visual feedback, a forced feedback, or the like. In an embodi- memory. For example, the bed memory 154 may be moved
ment' the feedback types may be used individually or in from a first adjustable bed facility 102 to a second bed facility
combination. In an embodiment, the audio feedback may be a 102 to move user settings from the first adjustable bed facility
sound that indicates that the command was successful, failed, 60 102 to the second bed facility 102. In this marmer the bed
is in progress, in conflict with a command in progress, failed memory 154 may be considered portable memory. In an
for safety reasons, or the like. In an embodiment, the visual embodiment, the removable bed memory 154 may be flash
feedback may be an indication of the remote 148 screen that memory, programmable logic circuit (PLC) memory, secure
indicates that the command was successful, failed, is in digital (SD) memory, mini SD memory, Compact Flash type
progress, in conflict with a command in progress, failed for 65 I memory, Compact Flash type II memory, Memory Stick,
safety reasons, or the like. In an embodiment, the forced Multimedia Card, xD Picture card, Smartmedia, eXtreme
feedback may be a vibration that indicates that the command Digital, Microdrive, or the like.
US 8,682,457 B2
41 42
In an embodiment, the removable bed memory 154 may be phone message, phone call, cell phone message, cell phone
used to upgrade the adjustable bed facility 102 memory and call, fax, pager message, or the like. The user, using the device
software. For example, ifnew control box 134 software was that received the notice of software, may send a reply to the
developed to provide better control over one of the adjustable adjustable bed facility 102 enterprise, the adjustable bed
bed facility 102 components, the software may be saved to a facility 102 manufacturer, the adjustable bed facility 102
new replaceable memory that may be used in the place of the service enterprise, or the like that the software upgrade should
existing replaceable memory. In this manner, the software of be downloaded, should not be downloaded, or the like.
the adjustable bed facility 102 could be upgraded just by Referring now to FIG. 4, an embodiment of shipping and
providing the user with a new replaceable memory. assembling a mattress retaining bracket 402 is shown. The
In an embodiment, the removable memory may be used to 10 mattress retaining bracket 402 may be used to hold the mat-
provide a sales enterprise with adjustable bed facility 102 tress 110 (not shown) in place on the adjustable bed facility
demonstration software where the enterprise may be able to 102 as the adjustable bed facility 102 sections are adjusted.
indicate at least one of a plurality of demonstrations for a user. For example, as the head section is adjusted up, the mattress
For example, the user may be interested in how the adjustable 110 may tend to slide down towards the foot of the bed, the
bed facility 102 sections may be adjusted and the enterprise 15 mattress retaining bracket 402 may stop the mattress from
may select a demonstration to shows all the section motion sliding and may maintain the mattress 11 0 in the proper
available. In an embodiment, before an adjustable bed facility position on the adjustable bed facility 102. Inan embodiment,
102 is shipped to a user, the enterprise may remove the dem- there may be a mattress retaining 402 bracket at the head
onstration removable memory and replace it with a standard section and/or the foot section of the adjustable bed facility
adjustable bed facility 102 bed memory 154. 20 102.
In an embodiment, the backup battery 158 may be used to In an embodiment, the mattress retaining bracket 402 may
provide power to volatile memory, provide power to the be made of materials that include metal, plastic, rubber,
receiver learn facility 152, provide power to the program- wood, or the like. In an embodiment, the materials may be
mable logic circuit (PLC) memory, or the like. used individually or in combination.
In an embodiment, the memory connection 160 may be any 25 In an embodiment, as shown in VIEW A, when the adjust-
connection type that provides a connection between the bed able bed facility 102 is shipped to the user, the mattress
memory 154, control box 134, and the like. In an embodi- retaining bracket 402 may be mounted upside down at the
ment, the memory connection 160 may be a wired or wireless final location of the mattress retaining bracket 402. This
connection. The wired connection may be a USB connection, mounting method may provide benefits that may include
a serial connection, parallel connection, or the like. The wire- 30 mattress retaining bracket 402 breakage prevention, mattress
less connection may be by radio frequency (RF), infrared retaining bracket 402 bending prevention, clear user under-
(IR), Bluetooth, or the like. In an embodiment, the memory standing of the final mattress retaining bracket 402 location,
connection 160 may be in a location that is easy for the user to prevention of the mattress retaining bracket 402 becoming
access the bed memory 154, may be attached to the memory lost, and the like. In an embodiment, as shown in VIEW B,
facility 150, may be attached to the control box 134, or the 35 once the user receives the adjustable bed facility 102 with the
like. In an embodiment, the easy access memory connection upside down mounted mattress retaining bracket 402, the user
may be on the side of the adjustable bed facility 102, on a rail may rotate the mattress retaining bracket 402 into the upright
of the adjustable bed facility 102, under the adjustable bed position and re-secure it to the adjustable bed facility 102.
facility 102, or the like. Referring to FIG. 6, an example of an adjustable bed 600
In an embodiment, the network connection 162 may be 40 (without the mattress) is shown with the head 602 and foot
used to connect the control box 134 to a network connection. 604 sections raised to an elevated position. This adjustable
In an embodiment, the network connection may be a LAN, a bed 600 shows that sections, in this case the foot 604 section,
WAN, an Internet, an intranet, peer-to-peer network, or the may be divided into more than one section to provide con-
like. Using the network connection 162, the control box 134 touring of bed sections.
may be able to communicate with computer devices on the 45 Referring to FIG. 7, an example of actuators 104 connected
network. In an embodiment, the network connection 162 may to the bed frame 702 and the adjustable sections 704 is shown.
be a wired or wireless connection. In this case two actuators 104 are used, one for each adjust-
In an embodiment, using the network connection 162, the able bed section 704.
control box 134 may be able to communicate with the net- Referring to FIG. 8, an example of more than one actuator
work to periodically check for software updates. In an 50 104 for each adjustable bed section 802 is shown, in this case
embodiment, if a software update is located, the control box there are two actuators 104 for each adjustable section 802. In
134 may send the user an email, instant messenger message, embodiments, more than one actuator 104 per section 802
phone message, phone call, cell phone message, cell phone may be used if the bed sections 802 are heavy, smaller actua-
call, fax, pager message, or the like to indicate that software tors 104 are used, if the bedis a wide bed (e.g. king bed), orthe
updates are available. The user, using the device that received 55 like.
the notice of software, may send a reply to the control box that Referring to FIG. 9, an example of an adjustable bed 900
the software upgrade should be downloaded, should not be using slats 902 instead of wood decking for the foundation of
downloaded, or the like. the adjustable sections is shown. In embodiments, the slats
In an embodiment, an adjustable bed facility 102 enter- 902 may be wood, plastic, rubber, cloth, elastic material, or
prise, an adjustable bed facility 102 manufacturer, an adjust- 60 the like. Using this design, the adjustable bed 900 may be
able bed facility 102 service enterprise, or the like may send provided with curved contours has shown in the head section
the control box 134 software updates using the network con- 904. In an embodiment, the curved sections may be con-
nection 162. In an embodiment, an adjustable bed facility 102 structed of a number of small connected individual sections.
enterprise, an adjustable bed facility 102 manufacturer, an The elements depicted in flow charts and block diagrams
adjustable bed facility 102 service enterprise, or the like may 65 throughout the figures imply logical boundaries between the
notify the user of available software upgrades for the adjust- elements. However, according to software or hardware engi-
able bed facility 102 by email, instant messenger message, neering practices, the depicted elements and the functions
US 8,682,457 B2
43 44
thereof may be implemented as parts of a monolithic software All documents referenced herein are hereby incorporated
structure, as standalone software modules, or as modules that by reference.
employ extemal routines, code, services, and so forth, or any
combination of these, and all such implementations are What is claimed is:
within the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, while the 1. A method, comprising:
foregoing drawings and description set forth functional establishing a two-way wireless communication system
aspects of the disclosed systems, no particular arrangement of between a handheld remote control and an adjustable
software for implementing these functional aspects should be bed controller, wherein the handheld remote control is
inferred from these descriptions unless explicitly stated or communication matched to the adjustable bed controller
otherwise clear from the context. 10 with a code key indicating that commands can be
Similarly, it will be appreciated that the various steps iden- received and executed therebetween;
tified and described above may be varied, and that the order of transmitting a control signal including a command from
steps may be adapted to particular applications of the tech- the handheld remote control to the adjustable bed con-
niques disclosed herein. All such variations and modifications 15 troller using the two-way wireless commnnication sys-
are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure. As tem; and
such, the depiction and/or description of an order for various providing feedback to a user on the handheld remote con-
steps should not be understood to require a particular order of trol to indicate the success of the command.
execution for those steps, unless required by a particular 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the indication is pre-
application, or explicitly stated or otherwise clear from the 20 sented on a screen of the handheld remote control.
context. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the indication is pre-
sented on a screen of the handheld remote control as a
The methods or processes described above, and steps graphic.
thereof, may be realized in hardware, software, or any com- 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the adjustable bed
bination of these suitable for a particular application. The 25 controller confirms a position of the articulating portion
hardware may include a general-purpose computer and/or through a comparison with a value representative of an
dedicated computing device. The processes may be realized acceptable value from a range of acceptable values for the
in one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, embedded position.
microcontrollers, progranm1able digital signal processors or 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the handheld remote
other programmable device, along with internal and/or exter- 30 control is a touch screen handheld remote control.
nal memory. The processes may also, or instead, be embodied 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the handheld remote
in an application specific integrated circuit, a programmable control is a cell phone handheld remote control.
gate array, progranm1able array logic, or any other device or 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the indication is at least
combination of devices that may be configured to process one of an audio feedback, a visual feedback and a vibration.
electronic signals. It will further be appreciated that one or 35 S. The method of claim 1, wherein the command is for
more of the processes may be realized as computer executable repositioning of an articulating portion of the adjustable bed.
code created using a structured programming language such 9. A method, comprising:
as C, an object oriented progranm1ing language such as C++, establishing a two-way wireless communication system
or any other high-level or low-level progranm1ing language between a handheld remote control and an adjustable
bed controller, wherein the handheld remote control is
(including assembly languages, hardware description lan- 40
communication matched to the adjustable bed controller
guages, and database programming languages and technolo-
with a code key indicating that commands can be
gies) that may be stored, compiled or interpreted to run on one
received and executed therebetween;
of the above devices, as well as heterogeneous combinations transmitting a control signal including a command from
of processors, processor architectures, or combinations of 45
the handheld remote control to the adjustable bed con-
different hardware and software. troller using the two-way wireless commnnication sys-
Thus, in one aspect, each method described above and tem;
combinations thereof may be embodied in computer execut- receiving an indication from the adjustable bed controller
able code that, when executing on one or more computing of a result of the command; and
devices, performs the steps thereof. In another aspect, the 50 providing feedback to a user on the handheld remote con-
methods may be embodied in systems that perform the steps trol to indicate the success of the command.
thereof, and may be distributed across devices in a number of 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the indication is at least
ways, or all of the functionality may be integrated into a one of successful, failed, in progress, in conflict with a com-
dedicated, standalone device or other hardware. In another mand in progress, and failed for safety reasons.
11. The method of claim 9, wherein the command is for
aspect, means for performing the steps associated with the 55
repositioning of an articulating portion of the adjustable bed.
processes described above may include any of the hardware
12. A computer program product embodied in a non-tran-
and/or software described above. All such permutations and
sitory computer readable medium, the computer program
combinations are intended to fall within the scope of the product comprising computer code that, when run on a hand-
present disclosure. 60 held remote control for controlling an adjustable bed and an
While the invention has been disclosed in connection with adjustable bed controller, performs the following steps:
the preferred embodiments shown and described in detail, establishing a two-way wireless communication system
various modifications and improvements thereon will between the handheld remote control and the adjustable
become readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Accord- bed controller, wherein the handheld remote control is
ingly, the spirit and scope of the present invention is not to be 65 communication matched to the adjustable bed controller
limited by the foregoing examples, but is to be nnderstood in with a code key indicating that commands can be
the broadest sense allowable by law. received and executed therebetween;
US 8,682,457 B2
45 46
transmitting a control signal including a command from wireless communication with a handheld remote con-
the handheld remote control to the adjustable bed control, wherein the handheld remote control is communi-
troller using the two-way wireless communication sys- cation matched to the adjustable bed controller with a
tem; and code key indicating that commands can be received and
providing feedback to a user on the handheld remote con- executed therebetween; and
trol to indicate the success of the command. the handheld remote control capable of:
13. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein transmitting a control signal to the adjustable bed control-
the indication is presented on a screen of the handheld remote
ler using the two-way wireless communication system;
control.
and
14. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein 10
providing feedback to a user on the handheld remote con-
the indication is presented on a screen of the handheld remote
control as a graphic. trol to indicate the success of the command.
21. The system of claim 20, wherein the indication is
15. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein
the adjustable bed controller confirms a position of the articu- presented on a screen of the handheld remote control.
lating portion through a comparison with a value in a table. 15 22. The system of claim 20, wherein the indication is
16. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein presented on a screen of the handheld remote control as a
the handheld remote control is a touch screen handheld graphic.
remote control. 23. The system of claim 20, wherein the adjustable bed
17. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein controller confirms a position of the articulating portion
the handheld remote control is a cell phone handheld remote 20
through a comparison with a value representative of an
control. acceptable value from a range of acceptable values for the
18. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein position.
the indication is at least one of an audio feedback a visual 24. The system of claim 20, wherein the handheld remote
feedback and a vibration. ' control is a touch screen handheld remote control.
19. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein 25 25. The system of claim 20, wherein the handheld remote
the command is for repositioning of an articulating portion of control is a cell phone handheld remote control.
the adjustable bed. 26. The system of claim 20, wherein the indication is at
20. A system comprising: least one of an audio feedback, a visual feedback and a vibra-
an adjustable bed having machine-adjustable articulated tion.
portions; 30 27. The system of claim 20, wherein the command is for
a controller for the adjustable bed, the controller including repositioning of an articulating portion of the adjustable bed.
a wireless interface, the controller capable of two-way * * * * *
EXHIBIT B
111111 1111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111
US008909357B2
(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 8,909,357 B2

Rawls-Meehan (45) Date of Patent: Dec. 9,2014
(54) SYSTEM FOR TANDEM BED (2013.01); A47C 21104 (2013.01); A61H
COMMUNICATION 220110149 (2013.01); A61G 22031726
(2013.01); A61H 2201/0142 (2013.01); A61 G
(76) Inventor: Martin B Rawls-Meehan, Lexington, 2203116 (2013.01); A61H 220110138 (2013.01);
MA(US) A61G 2203136 (2013.01); A61G 71018
(2013.01)
( *) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this USPC ................................ 700117; 700/65; 700/275
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 (58) Field of Classification Search
U.S.c. 154(b) by 0 days. USPC ................. 700117,65, 83, 275, 276; 3451173
See application file for complete search history.
(21) Appl. No.: 13/355,931
(56) References Cited
(22) Filed: Jan. 23, 2012
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
(65) Prior Publication Data
1,259,650 A 3/1918 Mcintyre
US 2012/0186019 Al luI. 26, 2012 1,371,098 A 3/1921 Jones
(Continued)
Related U.S. Application Data
FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
(63) Continuation of application No. 13/286,812, filed on
Nov. 1, 2011, which is a continuation-in-part of CN 1466925 A 112004
application No. 121704,117, filed on Feb. 11,2010, and CN 1482881 A 3/2004
a continuation-in-part of application No. 12/256,029, (Continued)
filed on Oct. 22, 2008, and a continuation-in-part of
OTHER PUBLICATIONS
application No. 12/269,987, filed on Nov. 13, 2008,
and a continuation-in-part of application No. Flaherty, J. C. et ai., "Medical apparatus remote control and method,
111855,255, filed on Sep. 14,2007, now abandoned. SIPO English Patent Detail, English translation", CN1482881 NPL-
(60) Provisional application No. 611408,778, filed on Nov. 243 Mar. 17, 2004 , 1 pg.
1,2010, provisional application No. 611508,958, filed (Continued)
on luI. 18, 2011.
Primary Examiner - Mohammad Ali
(51) Int. Cl. Assistant Examiner - Nathan Laughlin
G05B 11101 (2006.01) (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm - Marshall, Gerstein & Borun
A47C 31100 (2006.01) LLP
A47C 21100 (2006.01)
(57) ABSTRACT
A47C 21104 (2006.01)
A61G 71018 (2006.01) This disclosure concerns a communication system adapted to
A47C 20104 (2006.01) communicate between a handheld remote control and a first
A61G 71015 (2006.01) adjustable bed controller of a first adjustable bed facility, and
a second communication system adapted to communicate
(52) U.S. Cl.
between the first adjustable bed controller of the first adjust-
CPC ....... A47C 20/041 (2013.01); A61H 220310443
able bed facility and a second adjustable bed controller of a
(2013.01); A61H 220115046 (2013.01); A47C
second adjustable bed facility.
311008 (2013.01); A61G 71015 (2013.01);
A47C 211006 (2013.01); A47C 211003 21 Claims, 59 Drawing Sheets
US 8,909,357 B2
Page 2
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US 8,909,357 B2
1 2
SYSTEM FOR TANDEM BED ods of time in or on furniture. With aging populations in many
COMMUNICATION countries, such as the United States, more and more users face
such confinement.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED Associated with the trend for users to spend more time in
APPLICATIONS sedentary positions, such as in bed, is a trend toward increas-
ing use of technology in home and medical environments,
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent applica- including in rooms where users have adjustable furniture.
tion Ser. No. 13/286,812 filed Nov. 1,2011, which claims the Such technology includes increasingly sophisticated com-
benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. puter and networking technology, entertainment technology,
611408,778, filed Nov. 1,2010 and U.S. Provisional Patent 10 information technology, and the like. While many existing
Application Ser. No. 611508,958, filed luI. 18,2011, each of adjustable beds provide the basic requirements of moving
which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. sections to positions that are required by a user, a need exists
Application Ser. No. 13/286,812 is a continuation-in-part for adjustable furniture that works in better association with
of the following U.S. patent applications, each of which is other technologies that are capable of being deployed in the
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety: Ser. No. 15 environments in which the furniture is used.
121704,117, filed Feb. 11, 2010; Ser. No. 12/256,029, filed
Oct. 22, 2008; and Ser. No. 12/269,987 filed Nov. 13,2008. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Application Ser. No. 13/286,812 is also a continuation-in-
part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 111855,255 filed Sep. Methods and systems are disclosed herein for improved
14,2007, now abandoned, which is hereby incorporated by 20 integration of adjustable furniture, such as beds, with the
reference in its entirety. technologies associated with the environments in which the
beds are used. Such methods and systems include facilitating
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION using control systems for the adjustable furniture to control a
wide range of other technologies; actuating a wide range of
1. Field 25 actions as a result of events, states or attributes associated
This invention relates to the field of adjustable beds, and with the adjustable furniture, use of the adjustable furniture,
more specifically to information technology facilities associ- or users of the furniture; and controlling the adjustable bed as
ated with adjustable beds. result of events, states or attributes of the environment of the
2. Description of the Related Art adjustable bed.
Adjustable furniture, including chairs, couches, beds, and 30 It should be understood that where context permits as
other furniture, may contain at least one section of component would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art refer-
of which a user may control a feature or attribute, such as the ences herein to adjustable beds should be understood to be
position, vibration, motion, or the like of that section or capable of encompassing a range of adjustable furniture
component. The user may typically adjust the bed by using a facilities, including beds, couches, chairs, love seats, and the
control, which may be an on-furniture controller or a remote 35 like.
controller, to move an adjustable section in one or more The methods and systems disclosed herein may include
directions of movement. Additionally, the adjustable furni- storing preferences associated with an adjustable furniture
ture may include various types of mattresses, cushions, pil- facility and at least one second system in a plurality of
lows, or similar elements to cushion the furniture for the user, memory locations, wherein the second system is any of the
and the furniture may allow for vibration, heating, cooling, or 40 devices or systems disclosed in this disclosure, such as a
other action related to one or more of the sections. lighting system, an air purification system, an audio system, a
A typical adjustable bed may consist of a wood decking for CD player, an MP3 player, a DVD player, a lamp, an alarm
each of the sections of the bed connected together with hinges clock, a music player, a telephone, a video system, or an
to allow the various positions between the sections. There are entertainment technology system, computer system, infor-
actuators connected between the bed frame and the wood 45 mation technology system, networking system or other
decking for moving the adjustable sections into user-desired device or system, such as described in any of the embodi-
positions. The adjustable bed may have a "wall hugging" ments disclosed herein.
feature that maintains a consistent distance between the mat- The methods and systems disclosed herein may include
tress and the wall as the bed is adjusted. Some adjustable beds providing a modular controller for controlling an adjustable
may use wooden or plastic slats to support the mattress 50 furniture facility and at least one second system associated
instead of a solid wood platform. with the adjustable furniture facility in a plurality of memory
The adjustable bed may have at least one actuator to posi- locations, wherein the second system is any of the devices or
tion the adjustable bed sections. In some cases, there is one systems disclosed in this disclosure, such as a lighting sys-
actuator to position more than one, such as positioning both tem, an air purification system, an audio system, a CD player,
the thigh and foot sections with one actuator. There may also 55 an MP3 player, a DVD player, a lamp, an alarm clock, a music
be more than one actuator for each adjustable section. player, a telephone, a video system, or an entertainment tech-
Hospitals have used adjustable beds for many years to nology system, computer system, information technology
provide comfortable and medically required positions, and system, networking system or other device or system, such as
many home users have adjustable furniture because of a described in any of the embodiments disclosed herein.
medical issue and therefore require certain positions, move- 60 The methods and systems disclosed herein may include
ments, or settings (such as vibration, heating, cooling or the using a global command input to command more than one
like) to aid recovery, positioning to relieve discomfort as a facility associated with an adjustable furniture facility using a
result of pain, or the like. These users, whether at home or in single input, wherein the global command input is enabled by
a medical environment such as a hospital, nursing home, a modular controller capable of controlling an adjustable
assisted living facility, or long-term care facility, may, 65 furniture facility and an second system associated with the
because of these issues, spend significant amounts of time in adjustable furniture facility, wherein the second system is any
bed, and some users may be confined to spending long peri- of the devices or systems disclosed in this disclosure, such as
US 8,909,357 B2
3 4
a lighting system, an air purification system, an audio system, alann clock, a music player, a telephone, a video system, or an
a CD player, an MP3 player, a DVD player, a lamp, an alann entertainment technology system, computer system, infor-
clock, a music player, a telephone, a video system, or an mation technology system, networking system or other
entertainment technology system, computer system, infor- device or system, such as described in any of the embodi-
mation technology system, networking system or other ments disclosed herein.
device or system, such as described in any of the embodi- The methods and systems disclosed herein may include
ments disclosed herein. providing a remote controller for an adjustable furniture facil-
The methods and systems disclosed herein may include ity that has at least one bed position command set and at least
using a global command input to command more than one one command set enabling a user to at least one of play, adjust
facility associated with an adjustable furniture facility using a 10 volume, fast forward, and rewind using a device associated
single input, wherein the global command input is enabled by with the bed.
a modular controller capable of controlling an adjustable The methods and systems disclosed herein may include
furniture facility and an second system associated with the using two-way communications between a remote control
adjustable furniture facility, wherein the second system is any facility and a controller for an adjustable furniture facility.
of the devices or systems disclosed in this disclosure, such as 15 The methods and systems disclosed herein may include
a lighting system, an air purification system, an audio system, using two-way communications between a remote control
a CD player, an MP3 player, a DVD player, a lamp, an alann facility and a controller for an adjustable furniture facility and
clock, a music player, a telephone, a video system, or an an second system, wherein the second system is any of the
entertainment technology system, computer system, infor- devices or systems disclosed in this disclosure, such as a
mation technology system, networking system or other 20 lighting system, an air purification system, an audio system, a
device or system, such as described in any of the embodi- CD player, an MP3 player, a DVD player, a lamp, an alann
ments disclosed herein, wherein the modular controller has a clock, a music player, a telephone, a video system, or an
touch screen for accepting user input. entertainment technology system, computer system, infor-
The methods and systems disclosed herein may include mation technology system, networking system or other
using a programmable logic controller in a control facility for 25 device or system, such as described in any of the embodi-
an adjustable furniture facility. The programmable logic con- ments disclosed herein.
troller may control the bed or any of the devices or systems The methods and systems disclosed herein may include
disclosed herein that are associated with the environment of using a cellular phone to provide communication with the
the furniture. control box for an adjustable furniture facility, wherein enter-
The methods and systems disclosed herein may include 30 ing a command on the phone controls a function of the adjust-
using a programmable logic controller in a control facility for able furniture facility.
an adjustable furniture facility and an second system, wherein The methods and systems disclosed herein may include
the second system is any of the devices or systems disclosed using a cellular phone to provide communication with the
in this disclosure, such as a lighting system, an air purification control box for an adjustable furniture facility and an second
system, an audio system, a CD player, an MP3 player, a DVD 35 system, wherein entering a command on the phone controls a
player, a lamp, an alann clock, a music player, a telephone, a function of the adjustable furniture facility, wherein the sec-
video system, or an entertainment technology system, com- ond system is any of the devices or systems disclosed in this
puter system, information technology system, networking disclosure, such as a lighting system, an air purification sys-
system or other device or system, such as described in any of tem, an audio system, a CD player, an MP3 player, a DVD
the embodiments disclosed herein. 40 player, a lamp, an alann clock, a music player, a telephone, a
The methods and systems disclosed herein may include video system, or an entertainment technology system, com-
storing memory for controlling an adjustable furniture facil- puter system, information technology system, networking
ity, wherein at least a portion of the memory is stored system or other device or system, such as described in any of
remotely from the bed. the embodiments disclosed herein.
The methods and systems disclosed herein may include 45 The methods and systems disclosed herein may include
storing memory used to store data used for controlling an using a touch screen interface to allow a user to provide a
adjustable furniture facility and an second system, wherein at control command to adjust a bed position of an adjustable
least a portion of the memory is stored remotely from the bed, furniture facility.
wherein the second system is any of the devices or systems The methods and systems disclosed herein may include
disclosed in this disclosure, such as a lighting system, an air 50 using a touch screen to provide a control command to adjust
purification system, an audio system, a CD player, an MP3 a bed position and to provide a control function to a second
player, a DVD player, a lamp, an alann clock, a music player, system associated with the adjustable furniture facility
a telephone, a video system, or an entertainment technology wherein the second system is any of the devices or systems
system, computer system, infonnation technology system, disclosed in this disclosure, such as a lighting system, an air
networking system or other device or system, such as 55 purification system, an audio system, a CD player, an MP3
described in any of the embodiments disclosed herein. player, a DVD player, a lamp, an alann clock, a music player,
The methods and systems disclosed herein may include a telephone, a video system, or an entertainment technology
providing memory to store data for controlling an adjustable system, computer system, infonnation technology system,
furniture facility, wherein the memory is removable and networking system or other device or system, such as
replaceable. 60 described in any of the embodiments disclosed herein.
The methods and systems disclosed herein may include The methods and systems disclosed herein may include
providing memory to store data for controlling an adjustable providing a controller for an adjustable furniture facility, the
furniture facility and an second system, wherein the memory controller capable of controlling a function of the bed and
is removable and replaceable, wherein the second system is controlling an MP3 player.
any of the devices or systems disclosed in this disclosure, 65 The methods and systems disclosed herein may include
such as a lighting system, an air purification system, an audio providing a controller for an adjustable furniture facility, the
system, a CD player, an MP3 player, a DVD player, a lamp, an controller capable of managing at least one wireless commu-
US 8,909,357 B2
5 6
nication function, the wireless connnunication function a from the touch sensor, for connnunication control signals to
BLUETOOTH connnunication, an 802.11 communication, a the adjustable bed in accordance with the input received from
WIFI connnunication, and a peer-to-peer connnunication. the touch sensor.
The methods and systems disclosed herein may include An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
providing a controller for an adjustable furniture facility and handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
a second system, the controller capable of managing at least ing, a first touch sensor on a front face of the handheld
one wireless connnunication function, the wireless connnu- housing, a second sensor on a front face of the handheld
nication function a BLUETOOTH connnunication, an housing, a transmitter, and the like. The first touch sensor may
802.11 connnunication, a WIFI, and a peer-to-peer connnu-
be presented in a slider fonn and may be adapted to facilitate
nication, wherein the second system is any of the devices or
10 a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable bed. The
systems disclosed in this disclosure, such as a lighting sys-
second touch sensor may be adapted to facilitate the user in
tem, an air purification system, an audio system, a CD player,
adjusting a parameter of an audiovisual system. The trans-
an MP3 player, a DVD player, a lamp, an alann clock, a music
player, a telephone, a video system, or an entertainment tech- mitter may be electrically coupled to a processor that may
nology system, computer system, infonnation technology 15 receive input from the first and second touch sensors, for
system, networking system or other device or system, such as connnunicating control signals to the adjustable bed in accor-
described in any of the embodiments disclosed herein. dance with the input received from the first touch sensor.
The methods and systems disclosed herein may include An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
providing a control system for an adjustable furniture facility, handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
the control system accepting spoken connnands to control a 20 ing, a first touch sensor on a front face of the handheld
function of the adjustable furniture facility. housing, a second sensor on a front face of the handheld
The methods and systems disclosed herein may include housing, a transmitter, and the like. The first touch sensor may
providing a control system for an adjustable furniture facility be presented in a slider fonn and may be adapted to facilitate
and a second system, the control system accepting spoken a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable bed. The
commands to control a function of the adjustable furniture 25 second touch sensor may be adapted to facilitate the user in
facility, wherein the second system is any of the devices or adjusting a parameter of an audio system. The transmitter
systems disclosed in this disclosure, such as a lighting sys- may be electrically coupled to a processor that may receive
tem, an air purification system, an audio system, a CD player, input from the first and second touch sensors, for connnuni-
an MP3 player, a DVD player, a lamp, an alann clock, a music cating control signals to the adjustable bed in accordance with
player, a telephone, a video system, or an entertainment tech- 30 the input received from the first touch sensor.
nology system, computer system, infonnation technology An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
system, networking system or other device or system, such as handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
described in any of the embodiments disclosed herein. ing, a first touch sensor on a front face of the handheld
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed housing, a second sensor on a front face of the handheld
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- 35 housing, a transmitter, and the like. The first touch sensor may
ing, a touch sensor on a front face of the handheld housing, a be presented in a slider fonn and may be adapted to facilitate
transmitter and the like. The touch sensor may be presented in a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable bed. The
a slider form and may be adapted to facilitate a user in adjust- second touch sensor may be adapted to facilitate the user in
ing a frame position of an adjustable bed. The transmitter may adjusting a parameter of a remote computer facility. The
be electrically coupled to a processor that may receive input 40 transmitter may be electrically coupled to a processor that
from the touch sensor, for connnunication control signals to may receive input from the first and second touch sensors, for
the adjustable bed in accordance with the input received from connnunicating control signals to the adjustable bed in accor-
the touch sensor. dance with the input received from the first touch sensor.
In embodiments, the touch sensor may be a capacitive An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
touch sensor. In embodiments, the slider may be in the fonn of 45 handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
a dial, a linear strip, a curvilinear strip, a curve, and the like. ing, a first touch sensor on a front face of the handheld
In embodiments, the transmitter may be a transceiver and housing, a second sensor on a front face of the handheld
may be adapted to transmit control signals from the adjust- housing, a transmitter, and the like. The first touch sensor may
able bed handheld remote control to the adjustable bed and be presented in a slider fonn and may be adapted to facilitate
receive data from the adjustable bed. 50 a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable bed. The
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed second touch sensor may be adapted to facilitate the user in
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- adjusting a parameter of a HVAC system. The transmitter
ing, a touch sensor on a front face of the handheld housing, a may be electrically coupled to a processor that may receive
transmitter and the like. The touch sensor may be presented in input from the first and second touch sensors, for connnuni-
a slider form and may be adapted to facilitate a user in adjust- 55 cating control signals to the adjustable bed in accordance with
ing a massage motor setting of an adjustable bed. The trans- the input received from the first touch sensor.
mitter may be electrically coupled to a processor that may An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
receive input from the touch sensor, for connnunication con- handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
trol signals to the adjustable bed in accordance with the input ing, a first touch sensor on a front face of the handheld
received from the touch sensor. 60 housing, a second sensor on a front face of the handheld
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed housing, a transmitter, and the like. The first touch sensor may
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- be presented in a slider fonn and may be adapted to facilitate
ing, a touch sensor on a front face of the handheld housing, a a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable bed. The
transmitter and the like. The touch sensor may be presented in second touch sensor may be adapted to facilitate the user in
a slider form and may be adapted to facilitate a user in adjust- 65 adjusting a parameter of a kitchen appliance. The transmitter
ing a parameter of an adjustable bed. The transmitter may be may be electrically coupled to a processor that may receive
electrically coupled to a processor that may receive input input from the first and second touch sensors, for connnuni-
US 8,909,357 B2
7 8
cating control signals to the adjustable bed in accordance with to facilitate a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable
the input received from the first touch sensor. bed. The transceiver may be electronically coupled to a pro-
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed cessor that may receive input from the user interface. The
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- transceiver may transmit control signals from the adjustable
ing, a first touch sensor on a front face of the handheld bed handheld remote control to the adjustable bed in accor-
housing, a second sensor on a front face of the handheld dance with the input received from the user interface, and may
housing, a transmitter, and the like. The first touch sensor may receive data indicative of a receipt of the control signals from
be presented in a slider form and may be adapted to facilitate the adjustable bed.
a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable bed. The In embodiments, the transceiver may operate following
second touch sensor may be adapted to facilitate the user in 10 BLUETOOTH protocol. In embodiments, the transceiver
adjusting a parameter of an alarm system. The transmitter may be an RF transceiver.
may be electrically coupled to a processor that may receive An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
input from the first and second touch sensors, for communi- handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
cating control signals to the adjustable bed in accordance with ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing,
the input received from the first touch sensor. 15 a transceiver, and the like. The user interface may be adapted
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed to facilitate a user in adjusting a frame position of an adjust-
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- able bed. The transceiver may be electronically coupled to a
ing, a first touch sensor on a front face of the handheld processor that may receive input from the user interface. The
housing, a second sensor on a front face of the handheld transceiver may transmit control signals from the adjustable
housing, a transmitter, and the like. The first touch sensor may 20 bed handheld remote control to the adjustable bed in accor-
be presented in a slider form and may be adapted to facilitate dance with the input received from the user interface, and may
a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable bed. The receive data indicating that the frame position has been
second touch sensor may be adapted to facilitate the user in achieved by the adjustable bed.
adjusting a parameter of a vehicle system. The transmitter An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
may be electrically coupled to a processor that may receive 25 handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
input from the first and second touch sensors, for communi- ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing,
cating control signals to the adjustable bed in accordance with a transceiver, and the like. The user interface may be adapted
the input received from the first touch sensor. to facilitate a user in adjusting a massage motor setting of an
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed adjustable bed. The transceiver may be electronically coupled
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- 30 to a processor that may receive input from the user interface.
ing, a first touch sensor on a front face of the handheld The transceiver may transmit control signals from the adjust-
housing, a second sensor on a front face of the handheld able bed handheld remote control to the adjustable bed in
housing, a transmitter, and the like. The first touch sensor may accordance with the input received from the user interface,
be presented in a slider form and may be adapted to facilitate and may receive data indicating that the massage motor set-
a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable bed. The 35 ting has been achieved by the adjustable bed.
second touch sensor may be adapted to facilitate the user in An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
adjusting a second parameter of the adjustable bed facility. handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
The transmitter may be electrically coupled to a processor ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing,
that may receive input from the first and second touch sensors, a transmitter, a receiver and the like. The user interface may
for communicating control signals to the adjustable bed in 40 be adapted to facilitate a user in adjusting a parameter of an
accordance with the input received from the first touch sensor. adjustable bed. The transmitter may be electronically coupled
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed to a processor that may receive input from the user interface.
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- The transmitter may transmit control signals from the adjust-
ing, a touch screen on a front face of the handheld housing, a able bed handheld remote control to the adjustable bed in
plurality of images presented on the touch screen each repre- 45 accordance with the input received from the user interface.
sentative of a different function associated with an adjustable The receiver may receive data indicative of a receipt of the
bed, a transmitter for the communication of the control signal control signals from the adjustable bed.
to the adjustable bed, and the like. Each of the plurality of In embodiments, the transmitter and receiver may operate
images may be coded to generate a control signal in response at different frequencies.
to an interaction with the image. 50 An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
In embodiments, at least one of the images may be adapted handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
to produce a control signal when touched and may produce an ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing,
additional control signal when touched for a predetermined a transceiver, a receiver and the like. The user interface may
period of time. In embodiments, at least one of the images be adapted to facilitate a user in adjusting a frame position of
may be configured to accept an interaction by sliding across 55 an adjustable bed. The transceiver may be electronically
the image. coupled to a processor that may receive input from the user
In embodiments, the adjustable bed handheld remote con- interface. The transceiver may transmit control signals from
trol may include an auxiliary image presented on the touch the adjustable bed handheld remote control to the adjustable
screen, which may be representative of a function associated bed in accordance with the input received from the user inter-
with an auxiliary system. The auxiliary system may include 60 face. The receiver may receive data indicating that the frame
an audiovisual system, an audio system, a computer system, position has been achieved by the adjustable bed.
an HVAC system, a kitchen appliance, an alarm system, a In embodiments, the transmitter and receiver may operate
vehicle system, and the like. at different frequencies.
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- 65 handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing, ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing,
a transceiver, and the like. The user interface may be adapted a transceiver, a receiver and the like. The user interface may
US 8,909,357 B2
9 10
be adapted to facilitate a user in adjusting a massage motor In embodiments, the infonnation displayed on the adjust-
setting of an adjustable bed. The transceiver may be electroni- able bed remote control may be a position number associated
cally coupled to a processor that may receive input from the with the frame position.
user interface. The transceiver may transmit control signals An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
from the adjustable bed handheld remote control to the handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
adjustable bed in accordance with the input received from the ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing,
user interface. The receiver may receive data indicating that a transceiver, and the like. The user interface may be adapted
the massage motor setting has been achieved by the adjust- to facilitate a user in adjusting a massage setting of an adjust-
able bed. able bed. The transceiver may be electronically coupled to a
In embodiments, the transmitter and receiver may operate 10 processor that may receive input from the user interface. The
at different frequencies. transceiver may transmit control signals from the adjustable
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed bed handheld remote control to the adjustable bed in accor-
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- dance with the input received from the user interface. The
ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing, 15 transceiver may receive data indicating that the massage set-
a transceiver, and the like. The user interface may be adapted ting has been achieved and may display infonnation on the
to facilitate a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable adjustable bed remote control indicative of the massage set-
bed. The transceiver may be electronically coupled to a pro- ting.
cessor that may receive input from the user interface. The In embodiments, the infonnation displayed on the adjust-
transceiver may transmit control signals from the adjustable 20 able bed remote control may be a position number associated
bed handheld remote control to the adjustable bed in accor- with the massage setting.
dance with the input received from the user interface and may In embodiments, a method for displaying a number indica-
receive data indicative of an error encountered in a control tive of the data on a handheld remote control may be pro-
system of the adjustable bed. vided. The method may include sending a control signal to an
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed 25 adjustable bed to change an adjustable parameter of the
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- adjustable bed, causing the adjustable bed to change the
ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing, adjustable parameter in accordance with the control signal,
a transceiver, and the like. The user interface may be adapted causing the adjustable bed to send data indicative of a new
to facilitate a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable setting indicative of the changed adjustable parameter and
bed. The transceiver may be electronically coupled to a pro- 30 displaying a number indicative of the data on a handheld
remote control.
cessor that may receive input from the user interface. The
transceiver may transmit control signals from the adjustable
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
bed handheld remote control to the adjustable bed in accor-
ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing,
dance with the input received from the user interface. The 35 a transceiver, and the like. The user interface may be adapted
transceiver may transmit diagnostic control signals from the to facilitate a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable
adjustable bed handheld remote control to the adjustable bed bed. The transceiver may be electronically coupled to a pro-
to cause a controller of the adjustable bed to go into a diag- cessor that may receive input from the user interface. The
nostic mode and may receive data indicative receive data transceiver may transmit control signals from the adjustable
indicative of the diagnostic mode from the adjustable bed. 40 bed handheld remote control to the adjustable bed in accor-
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed dance with the input received from the user interface. The
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- transceiver may receive data indicating a new setting of the
ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing, adjustable bed and may display graphical infonnation on the
a transceiver, and the like. The user interface may be adapted adjustable bed remote control indicative of the new setting.
to facilitate a user in adjusting a frame position of an adjust- 45 An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed
able bed. The transceiver may be electronically coupled to a handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
processor that may receive input from the user interface. The ing, and a user interface on a front face of the handheld
transceiver may transmit control signals from the adjustable housing. The user interface may be adapted to facilitate a user
bed handheld remote control to the adjustable bed in accor- in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable bed and displaying
dance with the input received from the user interface. The 50 a graphical representation of the adjustable bed parameter.
transceiver may receive data indicative of a new setting of the In embodiments, the graphical representation of the adjust-
adjustable bed and may display infonnation on the adjustable able bed parameter may indicate a current status oftheparam-
bed remote control indicative of the new setting. eter as indicated by the adjustable bed.
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- 55 handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous-
ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing, ing, and a user interface on a front face of the handheld
a transceiver, and the like. The user interface may be adapted housing. The user interface may be adapted to facilitate in
to facilitate a user in adjusting a parameter of an adjustable adjusting a parameter of an adjustable bed, adjusting a param-
bed. The transceiver may be electronically coupled to a pro- eter of an auxiliary system, displaying a graphical represen-
cessor that may receive input from the user interface. The 60 tation of the adjustable bed parameter and displaying a
transceiver may transmit control signals from the adjustable graphical representation of the auxiliary system parameter.
bed handheld remote control to the adjustable bed in accor- In embodiments, the graphical representation of the adjust-
dance with the input received from the user interface. The able bed parameter may indicate a current status oftheparam-
transceiver may receive data indicating that the frame posi- eter as indicated by the adjustable bed.
tion has been achieved and may display information on the 65 In embodiments, the graphical representation of the auxil-
adjustable bed remote control indicative of the frame posi- iary system parameter may indicate a current status of the
tion. parameter as indicated by the auxiliary system.
US 8,909,357 B2
11 12
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed In embodiments, a method for adjusting a parameter asso-
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- ciated with the adjustable bed may be provided. The method
ing, a user interface on a front face of the handheld housing, may include presenting an interactive graphical representa-
a transmitter, a receiver, and the like. The user interface may tion illustrative of an adjustable parameter of an adjustable
be adapted to facilitate a user in adjusting a parameter of an bed, manipulating the interactive graphical representation,
adjustable bed. The transmitter may be electronically coupled sending a control signal to the adjustable bed in accordance
to a processor that may receive input from the user interface. with the manipulation and causing the adjustable bed to
The transmitter may be adapted to transmit control signals respond to the control signal.
from the adjustable bed handheld remote control to the In embodiments, a method for causing the bed massage
adjustable bed in accordance with the input received from the 10 motor to be set according to a user selected setting may be
user interface. The receiver may be electronically coupled to provided. The method may include storing multiple values
the processor and may be adapted to receive data from the that may define a range of available settings for a bed massage
adjustable bed indicative of a new setting of the adjustable motor, receiving a request to set the bed massage motor as the
bed. The user interface may display graphical information on user selected setting, determining a value amongst the mul-
the adjustable bed remote control indicative of the new set- 15 tiple values which may represent the user selected setting and
ting. causing the bed massage motor to be set to the user selected
In embodiments, the transmitter and receiver may operate setting by using the value that represents the user selected
at different frequencies. setting. Storing of the multiple values may include storing a
In embodiments, a method for displaying a graphical rep- table having multiple entries. Each one of the multiple entries
resentation of the adjusted parameter may be provided. The 20 may specify one of the ranges of available settings for the bed
method may include sending a control signal to an adjustable massage motor.
bed from a handheld remote control to adjust a parameter of In embodiments, the user selected setting may be an inten-
the adjustable bed, and displaying a graphical representation sity setting, a mode setting, a frequency setting, or some other
on the handheld remote control in response to receiving infor- type of setting.
mation from the adjustable bed indicating that the parameter 25 In embodiments, a method for storing an association of a
has been adjusted. The graphical representation may be illus- current setting value with a user-selected position of the bed
trative of the adjusted parameter. massage motor may be provided. The method may include
In embodiments, a method for displaying a graphical rep- storing multiple values that may define a range of available
resentation of the adjusted parameter may be provided. The settings for a bed massage motor, receiving a request to save
method may include sending a control signal at a first fre- 30 a setting of the bed massage motor as a user selected setting,
quency to an adjustable bed from a handheld remote control determining which of the multiple values represents a current
to adjust a parameter of the adjustable bed and displaying a setting of the bed massage motor to provide a current setting
graphical representation on the handheld remote control in value and storing an association of the current setting value
response to receiving information at a second frequency from with the user-selected position. Storing multiple values may
the adjustable bed indicating that the parameter has been 35 include storing a table having multiple entries. The multiple
adjusted. The graphical representation may be illustrative of entries may specifY one of the ranges of available settings for
the adjusted parameter. the bed massage motor. Storing the association of the current
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed setting value with the user-selected setting may include add-
handheld remote control that may include a handheld housing a store indication to each one of the multiple entries of the
ing, a touch screen user interface on a front face of the hand- 40 table except for the one of the multiple entries representing
held housing, a transceiver, and the like. The user interface the current setting value.
may be adapted to facilitate a user in adjusting a parameter of In embodiments, a method for storing an association of a
an adjustable bed. The transceiver may be adapted to transmit current setting value with a user-selected position of the bed
control signals from the adjustable bed handheld remote con- massage motor may be provided. The method may include
trol to the adjustable bed in accordance with the input 45 storing a plurality of values that may define a range of avail-
received from the user interface and may be adapted to able settings for a bed massage motor, receiving a request to
receive data from the adjustable bed indicative of a new save a setting of the bed massage motor as a user selected
setting of the adjustable bed. The graphical information setting, determining which of the multiple values may repre-
indicative of the new setting may be displayed on the touch sent a current setting of the bed massage motor to provide a
screen user interface and the user may adjust the parameter by 50 current setting value and storing the association of the current
interacting with the graphical information displayed on the setting value with the user-selected position. Storing multiple
touch screen. values may include storing a table having multiple entries.
An apparatus disclosed herein includes an adjustable bed The multiple entries may specifY one of the ranges of avail-
handheld remote control that may include a handheld hous- able settings for the bed massage motor. Storing the associa-
ing, a touch screen user interface on a front face of the hand- 55 tion of the current setting value with the user-selected setting
held housing, a transmitter, a receiver, and the like. The user may include adding a store indication to the table entry rep-
interface may be adapted to facilitate a user in adjusting a resenting the current setting value.
parameter of an adjustable bed. The transceiver may be In embodiments, a method for storing an association of a
adapted to transmit control signals from the adjustable bed current setting value with a user-selected position of a bed
handheld remote control to the adjustable bed in accordance 60 function may be provided. The method may include storing a
with the input received from the user interface. The receiver plurality of values that may define a range of available set-
may be adapted to receive data from the adjustable bed tings for a bed function, receiving a request to save a setting of
indicative of a new setting of the adjustable bed. The graphi- the bed function as a user selected setting, determining which
cal information indicative of the new setting may be displayed of the multiple values may represent a current setting of the
on the touch screen user interface and the user may adjust the 65 bed function to provide a current setting value and storing the
parameter by interacting with the graphical information dis- association of the current setting value with the user-selected
played on the touch screen. position. Storing multiple values may include storing a table
US 8,909,357 B2
13 14
having multiple entries. The multiple entries may specify one munications between the second hardware wireless commu-
of the ranges of available settings for the bed function. Storing nicationmodule and the remote wireless interface. The device
the association of the current setting value with the user- may further include the adjustable bed, and an actuator dis-
selected setting may include adding a store indication to the posed with the adjustable bed, the actuator that responds to
table entry representing the current setting value. the control signal by moving the adjustable bed into a lay-flat
In an aspect of the invention, an adjustable bed handheld position, wherein the command is a lay-flat command, and
remote control may include a handheld housing; a user inter- wherein the computer program code, when run by the pro-
face on a front face of the handheld housing, wherein the user cessor, may further perform the following steps: detecting a
interface is adapted to facilitate a user adjusting a parameter motion of the adjustable bed caused by the actuator, detecting
of an adjustable bed; a transmitter, electronically coupled to a 10
a halt in the motion, starting a timeout period in response to
processor that receives input from the user interface, adapted
the halt, and deactivating the actuator in response to expira-
to transmit control signals from the adjustable bed handheld
tion of the timeout period. The first wireless interface may be
remote control to the adjustable bed in accordance with the
input received from the user interface; a receiver, electroni- a Bluetooth interface and the second wireless interface may
cally coupled to the processor, adapted to receive data from 15
be a WiFi interface.
the adjustable bed indicative of a new setting of the adjustable In an aspect, a computer program product may be embod-
bed; and a piezoelectric circuit disposed inside the handheld ied in a non-transitory computer readable medium that, when
housing, wherein the piezoelectric circuit is adapted to indi- run by a processor, may perform the following steps: receiv-
cate accomplishment of the new setting of the adjustable bed, ing, via a first hardware wireless communication module,
the indication being marked with vibration of the handheld 20 information about a remote wireless interface, configuring a
remote control. second hardware wireless communication module using the
In an aspect, a method for operating an adjustable bed may information, receiving, via the second hardware wireless
include receiving information about a first wireless interface communication module, a command for controlling an
of a remote control at a first wireless communication module adjustable bed, and producing, in response to the command, a
from the remote control, configuring a second wireless com- 25 control signal that causes the adjustable bed to physically
munication module using the information, the second wire- respond to the command. The computer code, when run by
less communication module adapted for communications the processor, may further perform the following steps:
with an adjustable bed and the second wireless communica- detecting a motion of the adjustable bed caused by an actua-
tion module employing a second wireless interface incom- tor, detecting a halt in the motion, starting a timeout period in
patible with the first wireless interface, receiving a command 30 response to the halt, and deactivating the actuator in response
for controlling the adjustable bed from the remote control to expiration of the timeout period. Receiving information
through the first wireless interface, processing the command may be done via Bluetooth and receiving a command may be
to produce a control signal suitable for communication over done via WiFi.
the second wireless interface that causes the adjustable bed to In an aspect, a computer program product may be embod-
physically respond to the command, and transmitting the 35 ied in a non-transitory computer readable medium, the com-
control signal through the second wireless interface. The puter program product including computer code that, when
incompatible wireless communications modules may be run by at least one computing device, may perform the steps
incompatible at a physical layer. The information may of: receiving, via a first communication channel, a first com-
include a MAC address. Establishing communications may mand for controlling an adjustable bed, this step of receiving
include establishing communications via a connection-based 40 causing a timeout period to begin, controlling the adjustable
protocol. The command may be a lay-flat command, and bed in response to the first command, failing to receive, via
wherein the control signal activates an actuator to move the the first communication channel and prior to expiration of the
adjustable bed toward a laying-flat position limit. The method timeout period, a second command for controlling the adjust-
where the command is a lay-flat command may further able bed, attempting, after expiration of the timeout period, to
include detecting a motion of the adjustable bed caused by the 45 receive the second command by alternating between tuning to
actuator, detecting a halt in the motion, starting a timeout the first communication channel and tuning to a second com-
period in response to the halt, and deactivating the actuator in munication channel, receiving the second command while
response to expiration of the timeout period. Receiving infor- tuned to one of the first and the second communication chan-
mation may be done via Bluetooth and receiving a command nels, and after receiving the second command, attempting to
may be done via WiFi. 50 receive a third command by remaining tuned to one of the first
In an aspect, a device may include a first wireless interface and the second communication channels.
controlled by a first wireless communication module adapted In an aspect, a method of synchronously controlling a
for communications with a remote control, a second wireless plurality of adjustable beds using a single remote control may
interface controlled by a second wireless communication include receiving an input for controlling an adjustable bed,
module adapted for communications with an adjustable bed, 55 transmitting, responsive to the input, a bed-control command
wherein the first wireless interface is incompatible with the to a first adjustable bed, starting a first timeout period in
second wireless interface, and a processor programmed to response to the act of transmitting to the first adjustable bed,
receive a first signal from the remote control through the first failing to receive a first acknowledgement from the first
wireless communication module, to identifY an adjustable adjustable bed prior to expiration of the first timeout period,
bed command in the first signal, to generate a second signal 60 transmitting, responsive to expiration of the first timeout
suitable for communication to the adjustable bed through the period, the bed-control command to a second adjustable bed,
second wireless communication module, and to communi- starting a second timeout period in response to the act of
cate the second signal to the adjustable bed. The incompatible transmitting to the second adjustable bed and retransmitting,
wireless communication modules may be incompatible at a responsive to an earlier expiration of the second timeout
physical layer. The information may include a MAC address. 65 period and receipt of an acknowledgement from the second
The computer program code, when run by the processor, may adjustable bed, the bed-control command to the first adjust-
further perform a step of establishing connection-based com- able bed.
US 8,909,357 B2
15 16
In an aspect, a method in an adjustable bed may include position has been achieved by monitoring the position of the
activating an actuator to move the adjustable bed toward a mechanical component and comparing the position of the
laying-flat position limit, detecting a motion of the adjustable mechanical component with the pre-selected position. The
bed caused by the actuator, detecting a halt in the motion, bed frame position controller may maintain the pre-selected
starting a timeout period in response to the halt, deactivating position in a table of positions along with an indication that
the actuator in response to expiration of the timeout period. the pre-selected position is the position to mitigate snoring.
In an aspect, a system may include a communication mod- The user may initiate the indication by making a selection on
ule including both hardware and a protocol stack capable of a hand held remote control. The hand held remote control may
communicating at least at 1 Mbps via a broadcast network, a include a touch screen graphical user interface and the selec-
peer-to-peer network, a secure authenticated network, a star 10 tion is made by touching a selectable icon indicative of the
network, a shared uni-directional network, a shared bi-direc- position to mitigate snoring. The hand held remote control
tional network, an ad-hoc automatically shared network, a may include a telephone feature. The hand held remote con-
scanning mode network, a practical mesh network, and a trol may include a cell phone feature. The hand held remote
shared cluster network, a programmable logic controller control may include a VoIP feature.
operatively coupled to the communication module, a bed-lift 15 In an aspect, a method of controlling a plurality of adjust-
motor operatively coupled to the programmable logic con- able beds may include using a remote control of a first adjust-
troller, and a computer program product embodied in a non- able bed to command the first adjustable bed to perform a
transitory computer readable medium and operatively function, adapting the first adjustable bed to communicate
coupled to the programmable logic controller, the computer with a second adjustable bed, causing the first adjustable bed
program product including computer code that, when run by 20 to communicate at least one of the command and a current
the programmable logic controller, may perform the steps of: setting of the adjustable bed to the second adjustable bed, and
receiving, via the communication module, a command for causing the second adjustable bed to interpret the communi-
controlling an adjustable bed, and producing, in response to cation. The communication may be interpreted as a com-
the command, a control signal that causes the bed-lift motor mand.
to move a part of the adjustable bed. The computer code, 25 In an aspect, a method of wireless communication between
when run by the programmable logic controller, may further adjustable beds may include adapting a first adjustable bed to
perform the steps of: detecting movement of the part of the wirelessly communicate with a second adjustable bed, caus-
adjustable bed caused by the bed-lift motor, detecting a halt in ing the first adjustable bed to wirelessly communicate at least
the movement, starting a timeout period in response to the one of a command, a setting, a preference, a software update,
halt, and deactivating the bed-lift motor in response to expi- 30 and a report to the second adjustable bed, and adapting the
ration of the timeout period. second adjustable bed to receive the wireless communication.
In an aspect, a method in an adjustable bed may include The wireless communication protocol may be one of radio
monitoring a sensor for a first reading indicative of a snoring frequency (RF), infrared (IR), BLUETOOTH, and WIFI.
user, activating an actuator to move the adjustable bed into an These and other systems, methods, objects, features, and
anti-snore position, monitoring the adjustable bed to confirm 35 advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those
that it achieves the anti -snore position, monitoring the sensor skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the
for a second reading indicative of a non-snoring user, and preferred embodiment and the drawings. All documents men-
after failing to receive the second reading, activating the tioned herein are hereby incorporated in their entirety by
actuator to move the adjustable bed into a second anti-snore reference.
position. Monitoring the sensor for the first reading may 40
include monitoring the sensor in response to receipt of an BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
anti-snore-mode activation signal from a remote control.
In an aspect, a system may include an adjustable bed The systems and methods described herein may be under-
including an actuator that moves an adjustable portion of the stood by reference to the following figures:
adjustable bed between a plurality of positions, a sensor that 45 FIG. lA shows a block diagram of an adjustable bed facil-
produces a reading indicative of a snoring user, a handheld ity and associated components.
remote control including a touchscreen graphical user inter- FIG. IB shows a block diagram of an adjustable bed facil-
face, the remote control adapted to transmit an anti-snore- ity and associated components.
mode activation signal in response to user selection of an icon FI G. 2 shows an embodiment of two methods of maintain-
via the interface, and a controller operatively coupled to the 50 ing user memory for storing user preferred adjustable bed
actuator and the sensor, the controller adapted to carry out the positions.
following steps: receiving the activation signal, monitoring, FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of a remote control used to
in response to receipt of the activation signal, a sensor for a command the adjustable bed facility.
first reading indicative of a snoring user, activating the actua- FIG. 4A shows an embodiment of the shipping of a mat-
tor to move the adjustable bed into an anti-snore position, and 55 tress retainer bracket in the upside down position.
monitoring the adjustable bed to confirm that it achieves the FIG. 4B shows an embodiment of the shipping of a mat-
anti-snore position. The controller may be further adapted to tress retainer bracket in the upright position
carry out the following steps: monitoring the sensor for a FIG. 5A shows a top view of a vibration motor within an
second reading indicative of a non-snoring user, and after opening of an adjustable bed facility section lateral surface.
failing to receive the second reading, activating the actuator to 60 FIG. 5B shows a side view of a vibration motor within an
move the adjustable bed into a second anti-snore position. opening of an adjustable bed facility lateral surface.
In an aspect, a method of controlling an adjustable bed may FIG. 6 shows a typical hospital adjustable bed.
include in response to an indication by a user that the user FIG. 7 shows one use of actuators connected to the bed
would like the adjustable bed in a position to mitigate snoring, frame and the adjustable sections.
causing a bed frame position controller to move a mechanical 65 FIG. 8 shows more than one actuator for each adjustable
component of the adjustable bed to a pre-selected position bed section; in this case, there are two actuators for each
and causing the controller to confirm that the pre-selected adjustable section.
US 8,909,357 B2
17 18
FIG. 9 shows an adjustable bed using slats instead of wood FIG. 31 depicts a flow chart for controlling more than one
decking for the foundation of the adjustable sections. adjustable bed facility using a single remote control.
FIGS. lOA and lOB show an adjustable bed facility accord- FIG. 32 depicts an adjustable bed facility outfitted with a
ing to an embodiment of the present invention. motion sensor and related logic.
FIG. 11 shows operation of an adjustable bed facility FIG. 33 depicts a flow chart for laying an adjustable bed
according to an embodiment of the present invention. facility flat.
FIG. 12 shows a hinge joint between the frames/sections of FIG. 34 depicts an embodiment of a controller and a com-
an adjustable bed facility. munications module.
FIG. 13 shows a gusset in accordance with an embodiment FIG. 35 depicts an embodiment of an adjustable frame for
of the present invention. 10 the head.
FIG. 14 shows mounting of a control box, a receiver, and a FIG. 36 depicts an adjustable bed facility.
power supply on an adjustable bed facility according to an FIG. 37 depicts a user, adjustable bed facility, and mattress
embodiment of the present invention. instrumented with sensors.
FIG. 15 shows an accelerometer, a control box, and a FIG. 38 depicts a flow chart for adjusting an adjustable bed
processor of an adjustable bed facility according to an 15 facility.
embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 39 depicts a remote control.
FIG. 16 depicts remote control devices with slider controls
in circular and linear configurations. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED
FIG. 17A depicts a remote control to control a frame posi- EMBODIMENTS
tion of an adjustable bed. 20
FIG. 17B depicts a remote control to control a massage In the following description, terms such as 'adjustable
motor setting of an adjustable bed. mattress', 'adjustable bed', 'adjustable bed facility' and the
FIG. 17C depicts a remote control to control an adjustable like are used interchangeably to refer generally to an appara-
parameter of an adjustable bed. tus including a sleeping or resting surface with one or more
FIG. 18A depicts a remote control for controlling an 25 adjustable or moveable sub-surfaces that can be positioned
adjustable bed and an audiovisual system. for user comfort and/or convenience, unless a specific mean-
FIG.18B depicts a remote control for controlling an adjusting is explicitly provided or otherwise clear from the context.
able bed and an audio system. As users spend more and more time in adjustable beds they
FIG.18C depicts a remote control for controlling an adjust- may desire to have a level of independence by controlling
able bed and a computer facility. 30 devices that may be in the room from the adjustable bed. The
FIG. 18D depicts a remote control for controlling an devices and facilities that users may wish to control may
adjustable bed and a HVAC system. include audio equipment, video equipment, lamps, air puri-
FIG.18E depicts a remote control for controlling an adjust- fication facilities, power outlets, and the like. It may be desir-
able bed and a kitchen appliance. able for the user to control these devices and facilities from
FIG.18F depicts a remote control for controlling an adjust- 35 the adjustable bed without having to leave the bed or ask for
able bed and a vehicle system. aid from someone else. For example, the user may be con-
FIG. 18G depicts a remote control for controlling an fined to the bed and may want the simple ability to control the
adjustable bed and an alarm system. lights around the adjustable bed.
FIG. 18H depicts a remote control for controlling first and In an embodiment, an adjustable bed may not be the only
second parameters of an adjustable bed. 40 rest facility to benefit from position and additional function
FIG. 19 depicts a remote control for controlling the param- control. Users may also use beds, adjustable beds, adjustable
eters of an adjustable bed. chairs, adjustable couches, and the like to provide comfort-
FIGS. 20A-L depict a remote control for controlling the able positions when the user may have limited mobility. For
parameters of an adjustable bed 1824 in accordance with example, a user that has had hip replacement surgery may not
various embodiments of the present invention. 45 be confined to bed but may require a chair or couch to be
FIGS. 21A and 21B depict a remote control with a touch adjustable to provide a comfortable sitting position while
screen user interface in accordance with various embodi- providing control of other devices within the room to limit the
ments of the present invention. number of times the user must get up and adjust the devices.
FIG. 22 depicts a flow chart for changing an adjustable In an embodiment, while recovering from a surgery, an injury,
parameter associated with an adjustable bed. 50 an illness, or the like, the user may use more than one type of
FIGS. 23 and 24 depicts a flow chart for displaying a rest facility. The user may require confinement to an adjust-
graphical representation of an adjustable parameter associ- able bed for a time and then, with health improvement, be able
ated with an adjustable bed in accordance with various to move to either an adjustable chair or adjustable couch.
embodiments of the present invention. Aspects of the invention may be described as an adjustable
FIGS. 25 and 26 depict a flow chart for adjusting an adjust- 55 bed, but it may be understood that the same aspects may be
able parameter associated with an adjustable bed in accor- applied to other rest facilities that may include a bed, a couch,
dance with various embodiments of the present invention. a chair, or the like. Such rest facilities may be in a home, a car,
FIG. 27 depicts a remote control with a piezoelectric circuit a recreational vehicle, a cruise ship, an airline, a train, or
of an adjustable bed in accordance with various embodiments anywhere that a user required them, and they may be fixed or
of the present invention. 60 mobile.
FIG. 28 depicts a remote control and communication mod- One aspect of this invention may be to provide the adjust-
ule of an adjustable bed facility. able bed with more than one power option to move the adjust-
FIG. 29 depicts a flow chart for communicating with and able bed sections. The adjustable bed may use electric motors
through an adjustable bed facility. with gearboxes, pneumatic springs, hydraulic springs, or the
FIG. 30 depicts an interaction diagram for communica- 65 like to actuate the adjustable bed sections. There may be both
tions between a remote control and a number of adjustable pricing and durability reasons to have the different actuation
bed facilities. types.
US 8,909,357 B2
19 20
Another aspect of this invention may be to provide the the mattress, an auxiliary system, or the like. The information
ability to provide additional functionality to the adjustable from the sensor layer may also be processed and communi-
bed by using modular controls that may be able to commu- cated to a remote control.
nicate with the user's interface control. The modular controls In an embodiment, the control layer 110 may coordinate
may be designed to control a number of additional devices the electronic requirements of the adjustable bed facility 102.
and facilities that may include audio devices, video devices, The control layer 110 may interface with the sensor layer 108,
lamps, air purification facilities, power outlets, and the like. the network layer 112, the remote control 118, the auxiliary
Another aspect of the adjustable bed may be to provide a systems 114, and the like. In an embodiment, the control layer
support structure to support the bed materials (e.g. mattress), 110 may receive control requests from a user for controlling
motors, actuators, hinges between bed sections, and the like.
10 the adjustable bed facility 102 functions by interfacing with
The support structure may be a frame structure to provide the
the remote control 118. In an embodiment, the remote control
support yet remain lightweight.
118 may communicate with the sensor layer 108 so that the
Another aspect may be the use of replaceable memory to
maintain the bed memory and software applications. The latter may transmit the received requests to the control layer
replaceable memory may allow user specific information to 15 110. In an embodiment, the control layer 110 may be com-
be moved from one adjustable bed to another adjustable bed. bined with the adjustable bed facility 102, or it may be
This may be useful in care facilities where a user may move attached to the adjustable bed facility 102, or it may be a
from one bed to another bed during the stay in the care facility. modular stand-alone device, or the like. In an embodiment,
If the user has saved a preferred positioning of the adjustable the control layer 110 and the sensor layer 108 may be indi-
bed, when the user moves to another bed, the preferred posi- 20 vidual devices or a combined device.
tioning settings may be moved to the other bed with the user. In an embodiment, the control layer 110 may also control
Another aspect of the adjustable bed may be to provide functions of the adjustable bed facility 102 using a wired or
safety features that may control the refraction of the adjust- wireless technology. In an embodiment, the wireless technol-
able bed sections to reduce the risk of crushing an object that ogy may include WIFI, BLUETOOTH, ultra-wideband
may be under the adjustable bed. Many other aspects of the 25 (UWB), wireless USB (WUSB), IEEE 802.11, cellular, or the
present invention will become apparent by reading the dis- like. The various controlled functions may be able to com-
closure herein. municate using the wireless technology, and may use an inter-
FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of the various compo- mediate wireless receiver, a router, or the like to communicate
nents of an adjustable bed facility 102. In an embodiment, the with the control layer 110.
adjustable bed facility 102 may be made up of a plurality of 30 In an embodiment, the remote control 118 may be a user
layers that may include a mechanical layer 104, a sensor layer controlled device to provide control commands to the control
108, a control layer 110, and a network layer 112, and one or layer 110 relating to certain functions of the adjustable bed
more auxiliary systems 114. In addition, the adjustable bed facility 102. These functions may be adjustable bed facility
facility 102 may interact with a remote control 118 and the section movement (e.g., up or down), vibration control, func-
like. In an embodiment, the auxiliary systems 114 may 35 tions of modular devices, or the like. In an embodiment, the
include an entertainment system 114a, a kitchen appliance remote control 118 may communicate with the control box
114b, a vehicle control system 114c, a light control system using wired communication, wireless communication, or the
114d, a home control system 114e, and the like. In an embodi- like. In an embodiment, the wireless communication may use
ment' the auxiliary systems 114 may be combined with the a radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), BLUETOOTH, WIFI
adjustable bed facility 102, stand-alone devices, or the like. 40 network, or the like. If the remote communicates using a
In an embodiment, the mechanical layer 104 may include wireless technology, the communication may be with the
physical aspects of the adjustable bed facility 102 that provide sensor layer 108, and the sensor layer 108 may pass the
support for the user. The mechanical layer 104 may include command request to the control layer 110.
actuators, springs, mattresses, a sub-frame, a skeleton struc- In embodiments, the remote control may include a cellular
ture, vibration motors, supports, and safety brackets of the 45 phone or smart phone, such as and without limitation an
adjustable bed facility 102. These support and connection IPHONE, or the like. The remote control 118 may be used to
members may have any shape or configuration required to direct any and all functions of the adjustable bed facility 102,
provide the support and connections needed by the various for example by receiving user input, converting the input into
other components. control signals, and transmitting the control signals to the
In an embodiment, the sensor layer 108 may include a 50 adjustable bed facility 102. Receiving user input may include
plurality of sensors of various types. The sensor layer 108 receiving touch screen inputs, voice inputs, picture or video
may be interchangeably referred as sensor 108 within this inputs, acceleration inputs (e.g., rotating the remote control
disclosure. The sensors may be mechanical sensors, electrical 118 relative to the acceleration of gravity, shaking the remote
sensors, bio-sensors, and so on. In embodiments, the sen- control 118, and so on), magnetic inputs (e.g., orienting the
sores) may be associated with the various mechanical and 55 remote control 118 relative to Earth's magnetic field), and so
electrical components that make up the mechanical layer 104. on. For example, an IPHONE app may be used to control any
For example, the sensor(s) may be associated with an actuator of the functions of the adjustable bed and/or associated
to assess the position of the actuator or the mechanical pres- devices.
sure being exerted on the actuator or some other mechanical In an embodiment, the network layer 112 may be used to
component. The sensor(s) may also be associated with an 60 connect the control layer 110 to a network connection. In an
electrical component to assess the electrical component's embodiment, the network connection may be a LAN, a WAN,
condition. In other embodiments, the sensors may be associ- an Internet, an intranet, peer-to-peer network, or the like.
ated with the mattress such that sleeping, resting, sitting, and Using the network connection 112, the control layer 11 0 may
other user conditions can be assessed. The information from be able to communicate with computer devices on the net-
the sensor lay may be fed back into a processor (e.g. within 65 work. In an embodiment, the network layer 112 may facilitate
the electrical layer) for processing and response control. The wired or wireless connection. In an embodiment, the network
response control may alter a condition of the adjustable bed, layer 112 may be combined with the adjustable bed facility
US 8,909,357 B2
21 22
102, or it may be attached to the network layer 112, or it may battery 172 may not be part of the memory facility 164, but
be a modular stand-alone device, or the like. may be combined into other facilities or devices, be stand-
In an embodiment, the auxiliary systems 114 may provide alone devices, or the like.
additional functionality to the adjustable bed facility 102 or In an embodiment, the physical aspects of the adjustable
the user of the adjustable bed facility 102 that may include a bed facility 102 that provide support for the user may include
plurality of functional devices, for example, entertainment the actuators 120, springs 122, mattresses 124, a sub-frame
system 114a, kitchen appliance 114b, vehicle control system 128, a skeleton structure 130, vibration motors 132, supports
114c, light control system 114d, home control system 114e, 134, and safety brackets 138.
child monitoring system, or the like. This additional function- In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may provide
ality may be considered optional equipment that may be
10 the central structure that the other physical aspects may inter-
offered with the adjustable bed facility 102 or used in the
act with. In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may
environment associated with the adjustable bed facility 102.
provide direct support to the mattress 124, springs 122, and
In an exemplary scenario, the user may be able to control the
audio-visual system via the remote control 118. The user may the like. In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may be
control the volume of the audio-visual system of the enter- 15 a lightweight frame structure that may provide both the
tainment system 114a using an interface provided on the strength and rigidity required to properly support the mattress
remote control 118. The remote control 118 may send the 124 and springs 122. In embodiments, the skeleton structure
signals to the sensor layer 108. The sensor layer 108 may 130 may use materials that include metal, plastic, wood, or
transmit the signals to the control layer 11 O. The control layer the like; the materials may be used individually or in combi-
110 may generate the control signals and transmit to the 20 nation.
audio-visual system. In another exemplary scenario, the user In an embodiment, springs 122 may be used with a mattress
may be able to control the light control system 114d, for 124, instead of a mattress 124, or the like. In an embodiment,
example, to tum the light on/off, and dim the light or the like. the springs 122 may be a standard bed spring system (e.g.
The control signals may be generated and transmitted to the coils within a wire framework), individual coil springs, indi-
light control system 114d. Similarly, the remote control 118 25 vidual foam springs, air springs, or the like. In an embodi-
may provide the input to control the kitchen appliance 114b, ment, the individual springs (e.g. coil, foam, or air) may be
the vehicle system 114c (e.g., a remote starter for the vehicle), used to provide variable firmness to provide comfort to the
or other auxiliary systems as shown in FIG. 1. user. For example, the springs 122 may be less firm or firmer
In an embodiment, the auxiliary systems 114 and the in a local area to provide the user with the support that may be
remote control 118 may have wired or wireless communica- 30 required for a body location that is experiencing discomfort
tion. In an embodiment, the wireless communication may be (e.g. a hip, shoulder, back, neck). Springs that may have local
by radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), BLUETOOTH, WIFI fimmesses will be described in more detail below.
network, or the like. In an embodiment, the mattress 124 may include foam,
A remote control may be configured to support more than feathers, springs 122, material, or the like. In an embodiment,
one bed, such as to allow a parent who uses a remote con- 35 the different materials may be used individually or in combi-
trolled adjustable bed to also monitor and/or control a child's nation. The mattress may be intended to provide the user with
adjustable bed. Multi-bed remote monitoring and control a firmness that provides for the comfort requirements of the
may allow a parent to monitor status and activity associated user.
with a child's bed even when the parent is in another room, In an embodiment, the mattress 124 may be an air mattress
such as a master bedroom while the child is in his/her own 40 124. In an embodiment, the air mattress 124 may be con-
bedroom. In an environment with more than two adjustable structed using a single chamber, a plurality of chambers, a
beds, the remote may be paired with one or more of the beds plurality of individual chambers, a combination of chamber
to allow access to certain features, such as monitoring and shapes, or the like. In an embodiment, the air mattress 124
control features on the remote for the paired beds. In an may be inflated to various pressures that may provide the user
example, a parent may have an infant and a nine-year old each 45 with the desired comfort level. In an embodiment, there may
sleeping in separate rooms in an adjustable bed. The parent be separate air mattresses 124 for each of the adjustable bed
may pair a remote control (that may also be used by the parent facility 102 sections. For example, there may be separate air
to control a master bedroom adjustable bed) with the infant's mattresses 124 for the head, torso, and foot sections of the
bed for certain features and with the nine-year old child's bed adjustable bed facility 102. In an embodiment, the inflation
for other features. 50 pressure of the individual air mattresses 124 may be different
Now referring to FIG. 1B, a block diagram of the various from each other depending on user settings.
components of the adjustable bed facility 102 is shown. In an In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 sections
embodiment, an adjustable bed facility 102 may be made up may each contain individual air mattresses 124. For example,
of a number of devices and facilities that may include a sensor the head, torso, and foot sections may each have individual air
108, actuators 120, springs 122, mattresses 124, a sub-frame 55 mattresses that may be individually controlled for air pres-
128, a skeleton structure 130, vibration motors 132, supports sures and therefore firmness. In an embodiment, the user may
134, safety brackets 138, an electronic facility 140, an air be able to control the firmness of the individual air mattresses
purification facility 160, a zone climate control system 162, a 124 using a remote control 118. In an embodiment, the remote
remote control 118, a memory facility 164, a memory con- control 118 may have indicators for each of the firmness
nection 174, a network connection 178, and the like. In an 60 adjustable air mattresses 124. For example, the remote con-
embodiment, the electronic facility 140 may include a wire trol118 may have keys for increasing or decreasing the pres-
harness 142, communications module 144, modular controls sures of the individual air mattresses. Using the remote con-
148, a controller 150, power outlets 154, a power connection trol 118, the user may be able to adjust the firmness of the
158, and the like. In an embodiment, the memory facility 164 adjustable bed facility sections.
may include a receiver learn facility 168, bed memory 170, a 65 In an embodiment, the air mattress 124 may use a common
backup battery 172, and the like. In an embodiment, the air supply source facility as an air actuator 120. In anembodi-
receiver learn facility 168, bed memory 170, and backup ment, a controller 150 may control both the air mattress 124
US 8,909,357 B2
23 24
and air actuator 120. The controller 150 may provide control- least one cross member that may provide a connection to the
ling commands to both the air mattress 124 and air actuators actuator 120 and safety bracket 138.
120. In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 and the sub-
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may have frame 128 may interface with each other; the sub-frame 128
structural members that support the mattress 124 and springs may provide structural support and a rigid foundation base to
122 and may also provide support and connections for the the skeleton structure 130. In an embodiment, the sub-frame
actuators 120, sub-frame 128, supports 134, vibrator motors 130 may be the rigid structure that is in contact to the floor and
118, safety bracket 138, and the like. In an embodiment, the may provide a base for any fixed adjustable bed facility 102
structural members may be positioned on the peripheral sections and an interface for any movable adjustable bed
10 facility 102 sections. In an embodiment, the sub-frame 128
edges of the mattress 124 and springs 122 to provide overall
legs may be connected to the sub-frame 128 using a threaded
support and rigidity to the mattress 124 and springs 122 and
stud into threads of the sub-frame 128. In an embodiment, to
may form the base of the individual adjustable bed facility
prevent the threaded stud from pulling out of the legs during
102 sections. Additionally, there may other structural mem- tightening, the head of the threaded stud may be fixed
bers as support, cross pieces, or the like that may provide 15 between two or more layers ofleg material. This construction
additional support to the mattress 124 and springs 122 as may may trap the threaded stud head to prevent it from moving
be required. A person knowledgeable in the art may under- away from the end of the leg and may also prevent the
stand that the frame structure may have many different con- threaded stud head from being pulled through the end of the
struction configurations to provide support and rigidity to the leg during the tightening of the leg to the sub-frame. In addi-
mattress 124 and springs 122. 20 tion, the two or more layers of leg material may provide for
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may form the added strength to the sub-frame 128 legs to prevent distortion
base of the adjustable bed facility 102 sections that may be at the sub-frame 128 and leg interface. In an example of a
moved relative to each other to provide the various bed posi- fixed torso section, the sub-frame 128 may provide a base to
tions required by the user. The adjustable bed facility 102 may solidly connect the torso section to provide a fixed non-
include more than one section; a section may be fixed or may 25 moving section. The other moveable sections may be move-
be adjustable. For example, the typical adjustable bed may ably connected to the fixed torso section and additionally
have adjustable sections for the head, leg, and foot while the supported by the sub-frame 128 using a moveable interface
torso section may remain fixed and horizontal. There may be connection.
different combinations of movable and fixed sections with In an embodiment, the sub-frame 128 may have structural
one or all of the sections being movable. In an embodiment, 30 members that may run along the length of the adjustable bed
the sections may include the skeleton structure 130, mattress facility 102, run along the width of the adjustable bed facility
124, springs 122, and the like, and may individually be small 102, run diagonally across the adjustable bed facility 102, or
mattress structures of the entire adjustable bed facility 102 other orientation in relation to the adjustable bed facility 102
mattress. that may be required for support or connection to compo-
In an embodiment, the adjustable bed sections may be 35 nents.
connected together using hinges or like devices that allow a In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may be used
freedom of motion between two adjacent adjustable bed facil- as an RF antenna for receiving communication from the
ity 102 sections. In an embodiment, one section of the adjust- remote control 118. In embodiment, the entire skeleton struc-
able bed may remain fixed, such as the torso section, and act ture 130 may be used as an antenna; a portion of the skeleton
as the foundation for the other movable sections to be posi- 40 structure 130 may be used as an antenna, or the like.
tions. In an embodiment, any or none of the sections may be In one embodiment, the sub-frame 128 may provide solid
a fixed foundation section in the adjustable bed facility 102. In connections for any fixed section and skeleton structure 130
embodiments, there may be more than one adjustable bed by rigidly connecting the skeleton structure 130 directly to the
facility 102 configuration depending on the requirements of a sub-frame 128. In this manner, any fixed section and skeleton
user, cost requirements, medical needs, or the like. For 45 structure 130 may be rigidly connected to the sub-frame 128,
example, there may be a configuration where only the head and through the sub-frame 128, rigidly connected to the floor.
section is adjustable to provide the user with the ability to In another embodiment, the sub-frame 128 may provide an
have an elevated upper body position. This configuration may interface for the fixed adjustable bed facility 102 section and
be a single purpose bed but may also provide the user with a skeleton structure 130 where the fixed section may be able to
less expensive adjustable bed facility 102 that meets the 50 move or slide in relation to the sub-frame 128. By providing
user's needs. One skilled in the art may understand that there a non-rigid interface connection between the sub-frame 128
may be many different adjustable bed facility configurations and the skeleton structure 130, the fixed adjustable bed facil-
containing fixed and moveable sections. ity 102 section may have freedom of motion but still may be
This moveable section may also provide support and con- supported by the sub-frame in a solid foundation manner. For
nection members for the components that may be used 55 example, the fixed adjustable bed facility 102 section may
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130, as part of have wheels that run in a track, groove, "C" channel, or the
each adjustable bed facility 102 section, may also provide like of the sub-frame 128 and may be able to move horizon-
support and connection members for the components that tally during the motion of one or more of the movable adjust-
may be used to move the various adjustable bed facility 102 able bed facility 102 sections. In an embodiment, the hori-
sections. There may be skeleton structure 130 members that 60 zontal freedom of motion may provide for a "wall hugger"
provide connection support to the actuators 120, supports feature where, as the head section is adjusted up or down, the
134, safety brackets 138, vibration motors 132, and the like. fixed torso section may move, along with the head section,
These support and connection members may have any shape horizontally forward and away from an adj acent wall to main-
or configuration required to provide the support and connec- tain a fixed distance between the head section and the wall,
tions needed by the various other components. For example, 65 therefore "hugging" the wall. It may be understood by one
in addition to the skeleton structure 130 that is used to provide skilled in the art that the moveable interface between the
support to the mattress 124 and springs 122 there may be at skeleton structure 130 and sub-frame 128 may be any type of
US 8,909,357 B2
25 26
interface that may allow freedom of motion between the pivot point provided by the hinge type connection. In an
sub-frame 128 and skeleton structure 130. embodiment, there may be at least one actuator 120 for every
In an embodiment, the sub-frame 128 may provide an moveable adjustable bed facility 102 section.
interface for the fixed adjustable bed facility 102 section and In an embodiment, the combination of actuator 120, safety
skeleton structure 130 where the fixed section may be able to bracket 138, and supports 134 may provide a safety feature to
move or slide in relation to the sub-frame 128. prevent an object that may be under the adjustable bed facility
In an embodiment, the sub-frame 128 may provide an 102 from being damaged, impinged, crushed, or the like
interface for the fixed adjustable bed facility 102 section and during the decent of the adjustable bed facility 102 section.
the skeleton structure 130 where the fixed section may move During the downward motion of one adjustable bed facility
away or towards in relation to the sub-frame 128. 10 102 sections, the section may come in contact with an object
In an embodiment, any adjustable sections may have two that is under the adjustable bed facility 102. If the actuator 120
connections: a first connection provided by a hinge type con- is allowed continuing to pull the section in the downward
nection and a second connection provided by the connection direction, the object may be crushed under the force the
with the actuator 120 and safety bracket 138 that provide the actuator 120 may apply. In an embodiment, the safety bracket
force to rotate the adjustable bed facility 102 section up or 15 138 may have a slot that may provide time to determine that
down. In an embodiment, the hinge type connection between there is an object under the section that is moving downward.
the skeleton structure 130 of a first section and a second In an embodiment, the slot may have a first side that is on
section may provide the point of rotation for the section the opposite side of the slot from the actuator 120 and a
motion. In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 second side that is on the same side as the actuator 120. In an
may contain more than one section and any or all of the 20 embodiment, the slot that is between the first side and the
sections may be connected by a hinge type connection. second side may be of any length. In an embodiment, the
In an embodiment, there may be a support gusset for con- actuator may push against the first side to move the adjustable
nection between the actuator 120 and the adjustable bed facil- bed facility 102 section in an upward direction. In an embodi-
ity 102 section. In embodiments, the gusset may be an I beam, ment' during the downward motion of the section, the actua-
a T beam, an L beam, a box beam, or any other beam design 25 tor 120 may move at the same speed as the adjustable bed
that may provide the strength to lift the combined weight of facility 102 section and therefore the actuator connection to
the adjustable bed facility 102 section and the user without the safety bracket 138 may remain within the safety bracket
bending. In an embodiment, to resist bending forces at the 138 slot without contacting either the first or second sides of
connections to the actuator 120 and the adjustable bed facility the slot. In an embodiment, the section may move in the
102 section, the ends of the gusset may be reinforced. In 30 downward direction under the weight of the section without
embodiments, the reinforcement may be an additional the actuator 120 pulling on the second side of the safety
bracket added to the ends of the gusset, such as a U bracket or bracket 138.
any other bracket shape, to provide for increased material In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 section
thickness and strength of the gusset ends. The thickness of the downward speeds may be further controlled by supports 134
additional bracket may be detennined by the amount of force 35 that may provide resistance to the section motion to control
and torque that may need to be resisted during the adjustable the rate of decent. In an embodiment, the support 134 may be
bed facility 102 section movements. a pressurized device using pneumatic pressure, hydraulic
With the adjustable bed facility 102 sections intercon- pressure, or the like to provide a resistive force to slow the
nected by using hinge type connections, there may be at least decent of the adjustable bed facility 102 section. In an
one actuator 120 that may provide a connection between a 40 embodiment, the supports may provide enough resistance to
fixed adjustable bed facility 102 section and a moveable sec- control the rate of decent of the section as the actuator 120 is
tion. In an embodiment, the hinge connection between the retracted.
adjustable bed facility 102 sections may be a pivot point In an embodiment, as the actuator 120 retracts, the adjust-
bracket that may include additional strengthening to resist able bed facility 102 section, with the aid of the support 134,
bending forces. Similar to the gusset described above, the 45 may descend at the same rate as the as the actuator 120 is
pivot point connections may have additional reinforcement, retracting. By matching the rates of the actuator 120 retrac-
such as a U bracket or any other shaped bracket, to provide for tion and the adjustable bed facility 102 section descending,
increased material thickness and strength to resist bending the actuator 120 connection within the safety bracket 138 slot
forces. The thickness of the additional bracket may be deter- may remain within the slot area and not contact either the first
mined by the amount offorce and torque that may need to be 50 or second side of the slot. In an embodiment, as the section
resisted during movement of the adjustable bed facility 102 descends, if an object is encountered, the adjustable bed facil-
section. In an embodiment, the actuation 120 connection may ity 102 sections may stop its decent and the actuator 120
be between two of the skeleton structures 114. For example, connection will move within the safety bracket 138 slot with-
a first end of the actuator 120 may be connected to the fixed out pulling the section downward. In an embodiment, the
torso section of the adjustable bed facility 102 and a second 55 amount of time that the actuator 120 connection is moving
end of the actuator 120 may be connected to the section that within the safety bracket 138 slot while the adjustable bed
is to be moved (e.g. head, leg, or foot sections). In an embodi- facility 102 section is stopped may provide time to the user to
ment' the actuator 120 may use electric motors and mechani- realize that an object has been contacted and to stop the
cal gears, pneumatic pressure, hydraulic pressure, pneumatic downward motion of the section.
spring, air spring, hydraulic spring or the like to provide the 60 In an embodiment, an additional safety feature may be the
force to extend and retract the actuator 120. The action of addition of a shut off sensor, shut off switch, or the like on the
extending and retracting the actuator 120 may move the vari- first side of the safety bracket 138 slot to stop the retraction of
0us movable bed sections up or down. By the actuator 120 the actuator 120 if the actuator 120 connection comes in
pushing against the section, the section may rotate upward contact with the first side of the slot. In this manner, if the
around the pivot point provided by the hinge type connection. 65 actuator 120 connection with the safety bracket 138 slots
In the same manner, by the actuator 120 pulling against the reaches the first side of the slot, the actuator 120 retraction
section, the section may rotate downwards and around the may be stopped and the adjustable bed facility 102 section
US 8,909,357 B2
27 28
will not be forcibly pulled down into the object that may be and removable. In an embodiment, the at least one bracket
under the section. In an embodiment, there may be an indi- 504 may be shaped to secure the vibration motor 132 within
cation to the user that the actuator 120 connection has come in the section opening such as a straight bracket, a U shaped
contact with the first side of the slot and the adjustable bed bracket, an L shaped bracket, or the like; in FIG. 5A and FIG.
facility 102 sections downward motion has been stopped. In 5B the bracket 504 is shown as a straight bracket 504. In an
an embodiment, the indication may be an audio indication, a embodiment, the removal of one of the brackets 504 may
visual indication, a motion indication (e.g. vibration), or the facilitate securing the vibration motor 132 to the bed section,
like to indicate to the user that the motion has been stopped facilitating the servicing of the vibration motor 132, or the
and there may be an obstruction with the adjustable bed like. The bracket 504 may be positioned such that at least one
facility 102 section. 10 portion of the bracket 504 is within the opening of the lateral
In an embodiment, an additional safety feature may be the surface 508 and may also be positioned such that the bracket
dual motion of one or more moveable section of the adjust- 504 may overlap the vibration motor 132 flange. The bracket
able bed facility 102 to stop the side-to-side movement of a 504 may provide support to the vibration motor 132 flange
user. In such an arrangement, when the head portion of the along a majority of the perimeter of the mattress support
individual moves, the head section may be restricted from 15 opening. The bracket 504 may be coupled to the mattress
movement by nestling in a groove or the like, around the head support 508 using a removable coupling. Removing the
portion of the user. In a similar manner, the fixed torso portion bracket 504 may facilitate removing and servicing the vibra-
of the user may also move side-to-side along with the head tion motor 132. The vibration motor 132 flange may extend
portion. The fixed torso section of the adjustable bed facility beyond the perimeter of the opening of the mattress support
102 may form a groove around the moving torso portion of the 20 508 and the resilient material 502 may provide positional
individual, allowing the user to rest its torso portion inside the support for the motor so that the flange may impart vibration
formed groove. Also, the foot section may be moved to form to the mattress without contacting the mattress support. The
a groove around the foot portion of the user. resilient material 502 may provide mechanical insulation
In an embodiment, there may be at least one vibration between the flange and the perimeter of the opening in the
motor 132 that may provide vibration and massage functions 25 mattress support 508. The resilient material 502 disposed
to the adjustable bed facility 102 sections and mattresses 124. between the flange and the lateral support 508 surface of the
In an embodiment, there may be vibration motors 132 asso- bracket 504 may further provide positional support for the
ciated with any of the adjustable bed facility 102 sections. In vibration motor 132 housing.
an embodiment, there may be more than one vibration motor The bracket 504 may be constructed using material such as
132 for each adjustable bed facility 102 section that may have 30 plastic, metal, or the like, and may be constructed using the
vibration motors 132. In an embodiment, using the remote materials individually or in combination. In an embodiment,
control 118, the user may be able to control the vibration there may be a resilient material 502 associated with the
mode of the various vibration motors 132; the mode may brackets 504, the resilient material may provide for dampen-
include the vibration setting for a particular bed section, the ing the vibration between the vibration motor 132 and the
vibration frequency of at least one of the vibration motors, 35 adjustable bed facility 102, may contact the vibration motor
stopping the vibration of at least one of the vibration motors, 132 to secure the vibration motor 132 to the bed section, may
or the like. The user may vary the vibration frequency for the provide for dampening of vibration to the adjustable bed
particular bed section that has been positioned for a long facility 102 and hold the vibration motor 132 in place, or the
duration. For example, the user may require different vibra- like. The resilient material 502 may include latex foam, poly-
tion frequencies for a body location that is experiencing dis- 40 urethane foam, polypropylene foam, polyethylene foam, or
comfort (e.g. a hip, shoulder, back, neck). Such an arrange- the like and may be used individually or in combination.
ment may allow the user to vary the vibration frequency In an embodiment, either of the pneumatic or hydraulic
settings of various sections of the adjustable bed facility 102 devices may act as a vibration motor 132 increasing and
in case of inflexibility, pain or the like of any body portion. decreasing the pressure within a cylinder, bladder, or the like
In an embodiment, the vibration motors 118 may be oper- 45 at certain frequencies to provide the vibration required by the
ated independently or in combination. In an embodiment, the user. In an embodiment, a device to provide the pressure
user may select a vibration mode on the remote control 118 frequency may be part of the vibration motor 132, a separate
and the controller 150 may use a software application to device from the vibration motor 132, or the like.
control the various vibration motors 118 to the user's request. In an embodiment, the vibration facility 132 may be con-
In an embodiment, the vibration motor 132 may be an 50 nected to the skeleton structure 130, the mattress 124, the
electric/mechanical device, a pneumatic device, a hydraulic lateral surface 508, or the like where the vibration may be
device, or the like. The mechanical device may use an electric imparted into the adjustable bed facility 102 mattress 124 as
motor to rotate an offset mass to create a vibration; the vibra- desired by the user. In an embodiment, the vibration motor
tion motor may be controlled for vibration frequency and 132 flange may provide surface area that may impart a vibra-
amplitude by the speed of rotation of the electric motor. 55 tion into the mattress 124. In another embodiment, the vibra-
Referring to FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, an embodiment of a tion motor 132 may be in proximity to a vibration distribution
vibration motor 132 is shown within an opening of a adjust- facility (not shown) that may aid in the propagation of vibra-
able bed facility 102 support lateral surface 508. The adjust- tion energy to the adjustable bed facility 102 sections. In an
able bed facility 102 section may have a lateral surface 508 embodiment, the vibration motor 132 may be operatively
and the lateral surface 508 may include an opening in which 60 connected to the vibration distribution facility, may be in
the vibration motor 132 may be located; the vibration motor contact with the vibration distribution facility, may not be in
132 may fit within the opening such that the vibration motor contact with the vibration distribution facility, or the like. The
132 may not contact the lateral surface 508. vibration distribution facility may be constructed using mate-
In an embodiment, the vibration motor 132 may be secured rials such as plastic, rubber, metal, or the like and may be
to the adjustable bed facility 102 section using at least one 65 constructed using these materials individually or in combina-
bracket 504. In an embodiment, when more than one bracket tion. In an embodiment, the vibration distribution facility may
504 is used, at least one of the brackets 504 may be separable provide for a more uniform distribution of the vibration char-
US 8,909,357 B2
29 30
acteristics of the vibration motor 132 and may have a size and an antenna; a portion of the skeleton structure 130 may be
shape relative to the size and shape of the adjustable bed used as an antenna, or the like.
facility 102 section. In an embodiment, the controller 150 may also control the
Referring again to FIG. 1, in an embodiment, the adjustable functions of the adjustable bed facility 102 using a wireless
bed facility 102 may have an electronic facility 140 that may technology in place of, or in coordination with, the wire
contain components that provide control of the physical harness 142. In an embodiment, the wireless technology may
aspects of the adjustable bed facility 102 (e.g. actuator, vibra- include BLUETOOTH, ultra-wideband (UWB) , wireless
tion motors), interface with the remote control 118, interface USB (WUSB), WIFI, IEEE 802.11, cellular, or the like. The
with networks, interface with bed memory 170, control elec- various controlled functions (e.g. actuators 120 or external
10 devices) may be able to communicate using the wireless
tronic devices of the adjustable bed facility 102, and the like.
technology, may use an intermediate wireless receiver, router,
In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 may have
or the like to commnnicate with the controller 150.
the sensor 108 that may be combined with the adjustable bed
In an embodiment, the controller 150 wireless communi-
facility 102; or it may be attached to the adjustable bed facility cation may use a wireless network protocol that may include
102; or it may be a modular, stand-alone facility; or the like. 15
peer-to-peer communication, master/slave commnnication,
In an embodiment, the sensor 108 may be connected to the as a hub, as a server, or the like. In an embodiment, the
electronic facility 140 and may interface with the controller wireless communication may be used to control more than
150. one adjustable bed facility. For example, the user may be able
In an embodiment, the controller 150 may coordinate the to control hislher adjustable bed facility and may additionally
electronic requirements of the electronic facility 140. In an 20 be able to control another adjustable bed that may be within
embodiment, the controller 150 may interface with the com- the range of the commnnication method.
munications module 144, remote control 118, air purification In an embodiment, the cellular communication may utilize
facility 160, power outlets 154, power supply 152, power a cell phone, a smart phone, or the like to provide the com-
connection 158, modular controls 148, wire harness 142, and municationmethod with the controller 150, modular controls
the like. In an embodiment, the controller 150, commnnica- 25 148, or the like. In an embodiment, the controller 150 may be
tions module 144, and power supply 152 may be mounted a programmable control controller (PLC) and may be config-
directly to the skeleton structure 130. ured from programmable logic circuits. In an embodiment,
In an embodiment, the controller 150 may receive its com- the user may use a menu on the cell phone for adjustable bed
mand request from the user requesting adjustable bed facility functions that may be controlled by the cell phone. For
102 functions using the remote control 118. In an embodi- 30 example, the cell phone technology may be able to control the
ment, the remote may communicate to the communications bed position and vibration characteristics of the adjustable
module 144 and the receiver may transmit the received user bed facility 102 and therefore the cell phone menu may
command request to the controller 150. Therefore, commu- present the user with options for controlling the bed position
nications module 144 may be bi-directional. In an embodi- and vibration.
ment, the communications module 144 and controller 150 35 In an embodiment, if the communication between the
may be individual devices or may be combined into a single remote control 118 and communications module 144 is wire-
device. less, the receiver learn facility 168 may be used to establish
In an embodiment, the remote control 118 and communi- the communication between them. In an embodiment, a learn
cations module 144 may have wired or wireless communica- protocol between the remote control 118 and commnnica-
tion. In an embodiment, the wireless commnnication may be 40 tions module 144 may be user initiated by pressing a button
by radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), BLUETOOTH, WIFI on the receiver learn facility 168, powering up the receiver
network, or the like. In an embodiment, the commnnications learn facility 168, bringing the receiver learn facility 168
module 144 may receive the user commands from the remote within a certain proximity of the communications module
control 118 and transmit the same command to the controller 144, indicating on the remote control 118 to begin the learn
150; the commnnications module 144 may not provide any 45 protocol, or the like. In an embodiment, the learn protocol
interpretation of the remote control 118 commands. In an may be fully automatic, semi-automatic with user interven-
embodiment, the remote control 118 and communications tion, manual, or the like. In an embodiment, a user may select
module 144 may be commnnication matched by the use of a a channel, frequency, or the like during learn protocol or after
code key. The code key may be any indicator that may be the learn protocol. The changing of the channel, frequency, or
interpreted by the remote control 118 and commnnications 50 the like may prevent two different remote control 118 and
module 144 that commands may be received and executed communications module 144 combinations from interfering
between the remote control 118 and communications module with other wireless communication devices. In an embodi-
144. In embodiments, the code key may be a number, a word, ment, each time the learn protocol is executed, a new unique
a serial number, a bed identification, a remote identification, communication link may be established; there may be a plu-
a user identification, or any other identification known to both 55 rality of nnique communication links available for each
the remote control 118 and communications module 144, all remote control 118 and commnnications module 144 combi-
an indication that communications should be received. The nation.
code key may be transmitted as the beginning of the commu- In an embodiment, the remote control 118 may be a user
nication, the end of the communication, as part of the com- controlled device to provide control commands to the con-
munication or the like. Additional aspects of the communi- 60 troller 150 to command certain fnnctions of the adjustable
cations module 144 between the adjustable bed facility 102 bed facility 102. In an embodiment, the certain functions may
and the remote control 118 are described hereinafter with be adjustable bed facility section movement (e.g. up or
reference to FIG. 28 et seq. down), vibration control, modular controlled 132 devices, or
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may be used the like. In an embodiment, the remote control 118 may
as an RF antenna for receiving communication from the 65 communicate with the control box using wired commnnica-
remote control 118 to the commnnications module 144. In tion, wireless communication, or the like. In an embodiment,
embodiment, the entire skeleton structure 130 may be used as the wireless communication may use a radio frequency (RF),
US 8,909,357 B2
31 32
infrared (IR), BLUETOOTH, WIFI network, or the like. If the the adjustable bed facility 102 vibration before selecting a
remote communicates using a wireless technology, the com- different vibration characteristic for one of the adjustable bed
municationmay be with the communications module 144 and facility 102 sections.
the communications module 144 may pass the command In an embodiment, the user may be able to determine the
request to the controller 150. control functions that the global command 304 may control.
In embodiments, the communications module 144 of one For example, the user may be able to input a command
bed may be adapted to communicate with the communica- sequence to indicate the global command that should be
tions module 144 of another bed, such as by a wireless com- applied to the global command 304 input. In an embodiment,
munication protocol including a radio frequency (RF), infra- the global command may be stored in the adjustable bed
red (IR), BLUETOOTH, WIFI network, or the like. For 10 facility 102 memory 164 for later recall. In an embodiment,
example, a king size adjustable bed may comprise two side- after the global command 304 has been stored, the user may
by-side twin size adjustable beds. Each of the twin size beds select the global command 304 input for the command
may have a communications module 144. A single remote sequence execution.
control may be used to adjust each of the twin size beds 15 The function of the remote control 118 has been described
simultaneously, and in some embodiments, each of the twin with controlling adjustable bed facility 102 movement and
size beds may be separately adjustable with individual remote vibration, but it should be understood that the remote may
controls. In any event, the communications modules 144 may have control inputs for any function of the adjustable bed
be adapted to signal to the other bed. The signal may be facility 102. Additionally, the control inputs have been
related to synchronizing a motion of the beds, implementing 20 described as having a circular pattern, but it should be under-
a safety feature, communicating an error, communicating a stood that other embodiments of the control input organiza-
software update, communicating a preference, communicat- tion may be used for controlling the function of the adjustable
ing a setting, communicating a report, and the like. In some bed facility 102.
embodiments, upon receiving the signal from the other bed, The remote control 118 may include a timer that has a user
the signaled bed may interpret the signal as a command. 25 defined setting that may allow the user to determine when the
In an embodiment, the inputs of the remote control 118 remote control 118 communicates a control command to the
may be organized into groups of common function control; adjustable bed facility. For example, the user may be able to
the remote control 118 groups may be arranged in a circular set a timer on the remote control 118 to indicate a time when
orientation. As shown in FIG. 3, the remote control 118 may the adjustable bed facility 102 is to go to a flat position. The
include more than one group 302 and may include at least one 30
user may use this function in the evening where the user may
want to read for a halfhour and then go to sleep, the user could
positioning control group and one vibration control group. In
set the timer for a halfhour and the adjustable bed facility 102
one embodiment, the remote control 118 groups 302 may be
may go to the flat position after the half hour. In another
organized into a circular pattern where the circular pattern
embodiment, the timer may be a clock where the user may be
may provide for inputs that control increasing a function, 35
able to set a time when the adjustable bed facility 102 is to
decreasing a function, storing a function, global command complete a certain function. In an embodiment, the user may
functions 304, or the like. For example, a circular group 302 be able to indicate the command that the remote control 118
may be divided up into a number of segments to control is to transmit to the adjustable bed facility 102 when the timer
certain functions of the adjustable bed facility 102. FIG. 3 or clock setting indication has been reached.
shows four sections for each of the circular groups 302, but it 40 In an embodiment, the remote control 118 may be able to
should be understood that there may be any number of sec- directly control the settings of external power outlets associ-
tions to provide the required adjustable bed facility 102 con- ated with the adjustable bed facility 102. The power outlet
trol. may be an RF controlled power outlet and the remote control
In one example, one of the circular groups 302 may be used 118 may be able to transmit an RF command directly to the
to control movements of the adjustable bed facility 102 sec- 45 RF power outlet. In an embodiment, the power outlet may
tions. The movement circular group 302 may have inputs for include settings of at least on, off, a percentage of power, or
moving the head section up/down, moving the foot section the like. The power outlet control power setting may be con-
up/down, inputs for storing a user preferred positions to the trolled by a hardware setting, a software setting, or the like.
controller 150, or the like. Additionally, there may be a global The power outlet may be anAC powered power outlet or a DC
command input 304 that may provide for commanding more 50 powered power outlet.
than one adjustable bed facility 102 function using a single The remote control 118 may include a timer that has a user
input such as commanding the adjustable bed facility 102 to defined setting that may allow the user to determine when the
go to a flat position. For example, the user may be able to remote control 118 communicates a control command to the
select the flat button and the adjustable bed facility 102 may RF power outlet. For example, the user may be able to set a
move all of the adjustable sections to the flat position. 55 timer on the remote control 118 to indicate a time when the
A vibration circular group 302 may have inputs for con- RF power outlet is to turn on or off. For example, the user may
trolling the vibration of the head section up/down, controlling use this function in the evening where the user may want to
the foot section vibration up/down, inputs for storing a user read for a halfhour and then go to sleep, the user could set the
preferred vibration characteristics to the controller 150, or the timer for a half hour to turn off a power outlet that controls a
like. Additionally, there may be a global command input 304 60 light fixture, after the half hour the remote control 118 may
that may provide for commanding more than one adjustable command the RF power outlet to turn off and therefore turn
bed facility 102 vibration characteristic using a single input the light fixture off. In another embodiment, the timer may be
such as commanding the adjustable bed facility 102 to stop all a clock where the user may be able to set a time when the RF
vibration. For example, the user may be able to select the stop power outlet may turn on or off. In an embodiment, the user
vibration input and the adjustable bed facility 102 may stop 65 may be able to indicate the command, such as on or off, that
all of the adjustable sections from vibrating. In an embodi- the remote control 118 is to transmit to the RF power outlet
ment' the user may select the all stop global 304 input to stop when the timer or clock setting indication has been reached.
US 8,909,357 B2
33 34
In an embodiment, the user may indicate adjustable bed connection, a USB connection, a USB device, a parallel con-
facility 102 functions using the remote control 118 by press- nection, a wireless connection, a bed memory 170, or the like.
ing a button, touching a screen, entering a code, speaking a The capability to download information to the controller 150
command, or the like. In an embodiment, the controller 150, may allow for controller updates including software updates,
using the communications module 144, may receive and remote control 118 interface updates, memory updates, or the
interpret the command provided by the remote control 118. like. For example, if the user was supplied with a new or
The remote may control devices with commands that may upgraded remote control 118, the user may also be supplied
include on, off, high power, medium power, low power, vol- with updated software for the controller 150. The user may be
ume, play, fast forward, rewind, skip, modular device to con- able to connect the device containing the new software to the
trol, or the like. For example, the remote control 118 may 10 external interface and download the new software to the con-
transmit a command to move the head section up and the troller 150.
controller 150 may command the actuator 120 to extend a In an embodiment, the controller 150 may have a connec-
certain amount in response to the command. In another tion interface with the modular controls 148 to provide the
example, the remote control 118 may command that a modu- user with control over other devices that may be connected to
lar control 148 connected lamp be turned off. The controller 15 the adjustable bed facility 102. The controller 150 may
150 may command the controller 150 to turn off the lamp. receive commands from the remote control 118 for the modu-
Referring again to FIG. 1, in an embodiment, the controller lar controls 148 and may pass the command through to the
150 may use the bed memory 170 to store adjustable bed modular control 148, may interpret the remote control 118
facility 102 settings, application software, demonstration command and command the modular control 148, or the like.
software, and the like. In an embodiment, the user may deter- 20 In an embodiment, the controller 150 may interface with a
mine that certain adjustable bed locations are preferred and modular control 148 that is associated with external power
should be saved for future recall. The controller 150 may save outlets. In this embodiment, the user may be able to control
the user preferred settings in the bed memory 170 in order to the setting of the external power outlet by selecting a setting
recall the preferred settings at the use request. In an embodi- on the remote control 118. The setting on the remote control
ment, the controller 150 may also store non-user requested 25 118 may be received by the communications module 144
information to the bed memory 170 as needed for the control and/or the PLC (e.g. within the controller 150) to set the
of the various adjustable bed facility 102 components. For power outlet setting. For example, the user may be able to tum
example, when the user requests an adjustable bed facility on the external power outlet by selecting an external outlet on
102 sections to move, the controller 150 may store the last input on the remote. This may result in the external outlet
position into bed memory 170 to be used as a last position 30 power being turned on to power an attached device such as a
recall, an undo command, the last settings for the entire lamp.
adjustable bed facility 102 component at shutdown, or the In an embodiment, the bed memory 170 may be part of the
like. controller 150, external from the controller 150, a combina-
In an embodiment, the controller 150 application software tion of internal and external memory from the controller 150,
may be stored in the bed memory 170. In an embodiment, the 35 or the like.
software may be downloaded to the controller 150, may be In an embodiment, the bed memory 170 may be separate
run from the bed memory 170, or the like. In an embodiment, from the controller 150. In an embodiment, the bed memory
the application software may be an interrupt type application, 170 may be removable memory, the bed memory 170 may be
a polling type application, or the like for sensing what com- moved from a first adjustable bed facility 102 to a second bed
mand the user may have indicated on the remote control 118. 40 facility 102 to move user settings from the first adjustable bed
For example, in an interrupt application, each command facility 102 to the second bed facility 102. For example, a user
requested by the remote control 118 may send an interrupt in a care facility may be moved from a first adjustable bed
code to the controller 150. The controller 150 may then facility 102 to a second adjustable bed facility 102 but the user
request from the application software the command sequence may have already determined and saved at least one preferred
that is associated with the received interrupt. In another 45 setting to the bed memory 170. The bed memory 170 may be
example, the polling application may continually poll the removed from the first adjustable bed facility 102 and moved
remote control 118 for requested user commands and when a to the second adjustable bed facility 102 with the user and
user command is detected, then request the command therefore the user may keep the same preferred adjustable bed
sequences for the requested user command. 102 settings.
In another embodiment, the controller 150 may use a pro- 50 In this marmer, the bed memory 170 may be considered
grammable logic controller (PLC) or the like to store appli- portable memory. In an embodiment, the removable bed
cation programs for control of the adjustable bed facility memory 170 may be flash memory, programmable logic cir-
components. The controller 150 may include programmable cuits, secure digital (SD) memory, mini SD memory, Com-
logic circuits for facilitating application program store and pact Flash type I memory, Compact Flash type II memory,
execution. In an embodiment, the PLC may be part of the 55 Memory Stick, Multimedia Card, xD Picture card, Smartme-
controller 150, part of a bed memory 170, in a separate control dia, eXtreme Digital, Microdrive, or the like.
box, or the like. In an embodiment, the controller 150 may In an embodiment, the bed memory 170 may be part of the
include a microcomputer, a microprocessor, volatile memory, remote control 118. As part of the communication between
non-volatile memory, 10 connection to components, or the the remote control 118, communications module 144, and
like. The controller 150 may provide an interface to permit 60 controller 150 memory information may be exchanged
software application updates to the controller memory; con- between the remote control 118 and controller 150. For
troller memory may be over written. In an embodiment, this example, the user may indicate that a certain adjustable bed
may provide a method and system for providing software facility 102 position should be maintained for future recall.
application upgrades to the adjustable bed facility 102. The controller 150 may receive the save position request from
In an embodiment, the controller may have a connection to 65 the remote control 118 and transmit the position information
an external interface that may allow updates to be down- back to the remote control 118 for storage within the bed
loaded to the controller 150. The connection may be a serial storage 154. In a like manner, when the user requests the
US 8,909,357 B2
35 36
recall of a previously saved position, the controller 150 may able bed facility 102 may be represented by a plurality of
request the position information from the remote control 118 individual tables 210 for storing indication infonnation for
to the bed memory 170. each of the individual adjustable attributes for the adjustable
In an embodiment, if the remote control 118 is wireless, the bed facility 102. The individual tables 210 may be substan-
remote control 118 may contain both a transmitter and tially the same as the table 222 shown in FIG. 2 where there
receiver, or a transceiver, to transmit and receive infonnation may be one colunm 210 for increments 212 and another
with the controller 150. In an embodiment, the remote control column 220 for indication infonnation (214 and 218). For
118 may communicate with the communications module 144 example, there may be individual tables 210 for the head
using a connection key. The connection key may be a code section angle, foot section angle, vibration motor character-
that indicates that a certain remote is associated with a certain 10 istics, or the like. In an embodiment, the controller 150 may
adjustable bed facility 102. When the remote control 118 be able to access the adjustable bed facility 102 settings by
transmits information to the receiver, the remote may first accessing large tables 210 that contain many columns, small
send a key code to indicate that the remote control 118 is tables 210 that contain a few colunms, a combination oflarge
associated with the adjustable bed facility 102. If the key code and small tables 210, or the like.
matches the key that the communications module 144 is 15 In an embodiment, the controller 150 may store the tables
listening for, the communications module 144 may receive 210 within the controller 150 memory for accessing the set-
the command from the remote. tings of the adjustable bed facility 102. In another embodi-
In an embodiment, the bed memory 170 may maintain the ment, the table 222 may be stored in memory outside of the
position information for the user preferred positions of the controller 150 and the controller 150 may access the table 222
adjustable bed facility 102 sections. In an embodiment, the 20 through an interface connection. The table 222 increment
bed memory 170 may be implemented as programmable column 210 may represent a plurality of available positions
logic circuits, a logic circuit (LC), or the like. FIG. 2 shows an associated with adjustable bed facility functions. In an
embodiment of two methods of maintaining the user pre- embodiment, the increment values may be a measurement
ferred positions in memory. In an embodiment, a first method scale (e.g. inches or angle), may be the number of rotations of
may be to have discreet memory table 202 for each preferred 25 the actuator, the vibration frequency of the vibration motor, or
user bed position 204. There may be the same number of other increment scale. In response to a user input, the indica-
preferred bed positions 204 and memory locations 208 as tion colunm 220 may be marked with the indication 214 to
indicators on the user remote control 118. For example, the represent the position intended by the user. When the user
remote may have two buttons for the user to set the preferred makes a request to save a position, the controller 150 may
positions that may be used for later recall; the two buttons 30 search the increment colunm 210 to detennine which of the
may be associated with two discreet memory locations 208. plurality of increments 212 represents the current position
In an embodiment, each time the user indicates a new pre- value of the adjustable bed facility 102 section. Once the
ferred position for a button on the remote control 118 the current position value increment 212 within the table 222 is
memory location 208 may be over written with the new posi- determined, an indication 214 may be stored to the indication
tion information. In an embodiment, this method may only 35 column 220 associated to the current position value increment
allow the user to set one user preferred position for every 212. In an embodiment, the indication 214 may be any char-
button on the remote control 118. acter that may represent a position being selected such as a
In an embodiment, a second method of memory storage for letter, a number, special character, or the like. In embodi-
user preferred adjustable bed positions may be a table 222 that ments, the indication column 220 may include all indications,
may have a plurality of possible positions 212 the user may 40 no indications, one indication, more than one indication, or
select. In an embodiment, as shown, the possible positions the like to indicate the user's intended position. The storing of
212 may be PI through Pn. In an embodiment, the possible the indication association of the current position value with
positions 212 may be a plurality of values that may define the the user selected position may include adding a store indica-
range of available positions for the adjustable bed facility 12; tion to the table 222 entry representing the current position
the plurality of values may be a set of values that define the 45 value, removing the current position value from the table 222
range of available positions for one or more adjustable bed of values, removing a plurality of the table 222 values where
facility 102 functions. For example, the available positions the removal does not include removing the current position
212 may be a set of increments of section positions that may value, adding a store indication to every table 222 entry
include a set of actuator 120 positions, a set of actuator 120 except a table 222 entry representing the current position
activation times, bed section rotation angles, or the like. The 50 value, or the like.
set of increments may be detennined from a base value for the In an embodiment, when a user indicates on the remote
section. For example, the increments may start at zero from control 118 that a position is to be saved in the table 222, the
the flat position for the adjustable bed facility 102 sections. In controller 150 may select the increment value 212 from
an embodiment, the user may be able to select the increment within the increment colunm 210 set of values that represents
set to be used as possible positions 212 for the section. For 55 the current position of the adjustable bed facility 102. The
example, the user may be able to select the type of graduations controller 150 may store an indication 214 associated with the
by selecting from a set of possible graduation methods such as increment value 212; the stored indication associated with the
distance, angle of rotation, actuation time, or the like. current position value may be a recall value that may be
In FIG. 2, the table 222 is shown with an increment column recalled at a later time to reposition the adjustable bed facility
210 and an indication colunm 220. In an embodiment, the 60 102.
table 222 may have a plurality of columns 220 to store posi- In an embodiment, in response to the user requesting to
tion infonnation for any of the adjustable aspects of the return to a recall value, the controller 150 may scan the table
adjustable bed facility 102. For example, there may be an 222 indication colunm 220 for an indication 214 that may
indication column 220 for the head section angle, the foot represent the user's recall value. Upon locating the recall
angle section, the vibration characteristics for the various 65 value indication 214, the controller 150 may command the
vibration motors of the adjustable bed facility 102, or the like. adjustable bed function to the recall value indicated 21410ca-
In another embodiment, the adjustable aspects of the adjust- tion, position, vibration, or the like.
US 8,909,357 B2
37 38
In an embodiment, the indication column 220 of the table request to save the current adjustable bed facility 102 position
222 may initially contain indications 214 in all to the avail- as a user selected position. The controller may then make a
able discrete locations 212. As a user indicates that current determination of which of the plurality of position values
position value is the position to be stored within the table 222, represent the current position of the adjustable bed facility
the indication 214 for the current position value may be 102 to provide a current position value. In determining which
removed from the table 222. This may result in one increment of the plurality of position values represents the current posi-
location 212 being empty of an indication. In this case, when tion' the controller may use an algorithm to decide which of
a user requests to return to the recall position, the controller the plurality of values best represents the current adjustable
150 may scan the table 222 indication column 220 for the bed facility 102 positions. For example, the actual adjustable
empty increment location 212. Once the empty increment 10 bed facility 102 position may match one of the values and the
location is found, the controller 150 may command the algorithm may then select the matching value as the one that
adjustable bed function to the recall position, vibration, or best represents the current position. In another situation, the
other adjustable bed facility 102 function. In an embodiment, actual adjustable bed facility 102 position may not match any
if the user stores a different current position value, the empty of the plurality of values. In this case, an algorithm may be
discrete location 212 may be filled with an indication and the 15 used to determine which value best represents the position of
new indication associated to the current position value may the adjustable bed facility 102. The algorithm may run an
have the indication 214 removed. In an embodiment, the user averaging calculation, interpolation calculation or other form
may be able to clear the stored position by indicating a clear of prediction algorithm to select between two positions rep-
command and all of the increment locations 212 may be filled resenting positions on either side of the actual adjustable bed
with indications 214. 20 facility 102 position, for example. Once the controller has
In an embodiment, the available increment locations 212 in made the determination as to which value represents the
the indication column 220 of the table 222 may initially current adjustable bed facility 102 position, the controller
contain no indications 214 so that the indication column 220 may then store an association of the current position value
may be empty. As a user indicates that a current position value with the user-selected position (e.g. as described elsewhere
is the position to be stored within the table 222, the indication 25 herein).
214 associated to the current position value may be added to The embodiment of unmarking 218 preferred positions
the table 222. This may result in one increment location 212 will be used in the following illustrations, but it should be
having an indication. In this case, when a user requests to understood that marking a current position value may also be
return to recall value position, the controller 150 may scan the used as a method of indicating a preferred position 212.
table 222 indication column 220 for the increment location 30 In an embodiment, the user may indicate the current posi-
212 containing the indication 214 associated with the recall tion value by indicating a set position on the remote control
value. Once the increment location is found, the controller 118; this indication may result in all of the possible increment
150 may command the adjustable bed function to the recall locations 212 having an indication 214 except for the one
value position, position, vibration, or other adjustable bed increment the user has selected which may be non-marked
facility 102 function. In an embodiment, if the user stores a 35 218. For example, if the user selected the P3 position 212 as
different position, the increment location 212 indication 214 a preferred position, all of the positions 212 may receive a
may be removed and the new current position value may have mark 214 except the one position P3, which may receive a
the indication 214 added. In an embodiment, the user may be non-mark 218.
able to clear the stored position by indicating a clear com- In an embodiment, the positioning recall position logic of
mand and all of the discrete locations 212 may have the 40 the adjustable bed may seek possible positions 212 that do not
indication 214 removed. have a mark 218 when determining what user positions to
In an embodiment, when a user indicates a current position select.
value is to be indicated in the table 222, the indication may In an embodiment, the user may be able to set more than
represent the user's preferred adjustable bed facility 102 posi- one increment position 212 in the table 222 for a single button
tion. In an embodiment, the user's indicated current position 45 on the remote control 118. For example, the user may be able
value may be rounded to the closest table 222 increment to press a button on the remote control 118 in a certain way to
location 214. For example, if the user selects a current posi- set a non-mark 218 at different preferred positions 212. In
tion value that is between two increment positions on the table another example, when the user presses a button on the
222, an algorithm may be used to determine which of the remote control 118, the current position value may be
increment positions are to be indicated in the indication col- 50 uumarked 218 as a preferred position and an algorithm may
umn220. be executed to unmark 218 other preferred positions 212 at
Embodiments of the present invention involve setting a certain increments from the user selected position. In one
recall bed position in response to a user making a storage example of the algorithm, every third position may be
selection. The user's storage selection may send a command selected to be unmarked 218 as a preferred position 212. The
to the adjustable bed facility's 102 controller (e.g. the PLC) 55 additional non-markings 218 may be by actuation time, sec-
indicating that the user would like the present position of the tion rotation angle, or the like. A person skilled in the art may
adjustable bed facility 102 stored such that the user can later understand that there may be any number of different meth-
have the adjustable bed facility 102 return to the stored posi- ods ofunmarking more than one position 212 using a single
tion. The user may use a user interface (e.g. the remote control button on the remote control 118.
118) and make such a storage selection once the adjustable 60 In an embodiment, with user preferred positions 212
bed facility 102 is in a desired position. As described herein unmarked 218 on the table 222, the user may indicate on the
elsewhere, a plurality of position values that define a range of remote control 118 to recall the user preferred position 212. In
available positions for the adjustable bed facility 102 may be an embodiment, there may be an algorithm to search the table
stored in memory accessible by the adjustable bed facility's 222 for an unmarked 218 user preferred position 212 to posi-
controller 150. The available positions may be stored in a 65 tion the bed to the recall value. Once the preferred position
table 222 or other structure for example. Once the user ini- 212 is determined, the command logic may command the
tiates such a storage request, the controller may receive the actuator or actuators to move the adjustable bed sections into
US 8,909,357 B2
39 40
the preferred position 212 recall value. In an embodiment, adjustable bed facility 102 service enterprises, or the like may
there may be more than one preferred position 212 unmarked send the controller 150 software updates using the network
218 on the table 222. In this case, the algorithm may seek the connection 178. In an embodiment, an adjustable bed facility
first unmarked 218 position 212 and move the adjustable bed 102 enterprise, an adjustable bed facility 102 manufacturer,
section to that position. In an embodiment, if this is not the an adjustable bed facility 102 service enterprise, or the like
user desired position, the user may indicate again on the may notifY the user of available software upgrades for the
remote to recall a preferred position and the algorithm may adjustable bed facility 102 by email, instant messenger mes-
seek the next unmarked 218 position 212. A person skilled in sage, phone message, phone call, cell phone message, cell
the art may understand that there may be a number of different phone call, fax, pager message, or the like. The user, using the
methods of recalling a plurality of marked 214 or unmarked 10 device that received the notice of software upgrade, may send
218 positions 212 from the table 222. a reply to the adjustable bed facility 102 enterprise, the adjust-
Referring again to FIG. IB, in an embodiment, the removable bed facility 102 manufacturer, the adjustable bed facility
able bed memory 170 may be used to upgrade the adjustable 102 service enterprise, or the like that the software upgrade
bed facility 102 memory and software. For example, if new should be downloaded, should not be downloaded, or the like.
controller 150 software was developed to provide better con- 15 In an embodiment, an adjustable bed facility 102 enter-
trol over one of the adjustable bed facility 102 components, prise, an adjustable bed facility 102 manufacturer, an adjust-
the software may be saved to a new replaceable memory that able bed facility 102 service enterprise, or the like may notifY
may replace the existing replaceable memory. In this manner, the user of one or more identified problems or errors in the
the software of the adjustable bed facility 102 could be adjustable bed facility 102 by email, instant messenger mes-
upgraded just by providing the user with a new replaceable 20 sage, phone message, phone call, cell phone message, cell
memory. phone call, fax, pager message, or the like. The user, using the
In an embodiment, the removable memory may be used to device that received the notice of the identified problems or
provide a sales enterprise with the adjustable bed facility 102 errors, may trouble shoot the problem, may not trouble shoot
demonstration software where the enterprise may be able to the problem or the like.
indicate at least one of a plurality of demonstrations for a user. 25 In an embodiment, the user may access the network con-
For example, the user may be interested in how the adjustable nection 162 with the user's own computer device.
bed facility 102 sections may be adjusted and the enterprise In an embodiment, the remote control 118 and controller
may select a demonstration to shows all the section motion 150 may be able to control other devices that may be con-
available. In an embodiment, before an adjustable bed facility nected to modular controls 148. In an embodiment, themodu-
102 is shipped to a user, the enterprise may remove the dem- 30 lar controls 148 may be similar to the control box by inter-
onstration removable memory and replace it with a standard preting commands to control a device, but may be unique to
adjustable bed facility 102 bed memory 170. the device that is connected to it. In an embodiment, the
In an embodiment, the memory connection 174 may be any modular controls 148 may control audio equipment, video
connection type that provides a connection between the bed equipment, lamps, air purification facilities, outlets, and the
memory 170, controller 150, and the like. In an embodiment, 35 like. For example, the modular control 148 may be connected
the memory connection 174 may be a wired or wireless con- to audio equipment and may contain the command sequences
nection. The wired connection may be a USB connection, a to control the audio equipment based on commands that may
serial connection, parallel connection, or the like. The wire- be received from the remote control 118. It may be obvious to
less connection may be by radio frequency (RF), infrared someone in the art that any of the devices that are connected
(IR), BLUETOOTH, WIFI network, or the like. In an 40 to modular controls 148 may be controlled in the same man-
embodiment, the memory connection 174 may be in a loca- nero
tion that is easy for the user to access the bed memory 170, In an embodiment, the user may indicate a function to be
may be attached to the memory facility 164, may be attached accessed for a certain device connected to a modular control
to the controller 150, or the like. In an embodiment, the easy 148, the controller 150 may receive the request from the
access memory connection may be on the side of the adjust- 45 remote control 118 and pass the command onto the appropri-
able bed facility 102, on a rail of the adjustable bed facility ate modular control 148. In an embodiment, the remote con-
102, under the adjustable bed facility 102, or the like. trol118 may have modular control 148 device functions that
In an embodiment, the controller 150 may also access a the user may select to control a modular control 148 device.
network using a network connection 178. In an embodiment, For example, the remote control 118 may have functions such
the network may be a LAN, WAN, Internet, intranet, peer-to- 50 as play, fast-forward, rewind, skip, pause, and the like for an
peer, or other network with computer devices that the con- audio device connected to the modular control 148.
troller 150 may communicate with. In an embodiment, the In an embodiment, the modular controls 148 may be con-
network connection 178 may be a wired or wireless connec- nected to the controller 150 and power supply 152 using a
tion. wire harness 142. The wire harness 142 may contain power
In an embodiment, using the network connection 178, the 55 and data connections for all of the possible connection loca-
controller 150 may be able to communicate with the network tions for the modular controls 148. For example, if there are
to periodically check for application software updates. In an six locations on the adjustable bed facility 102 for attaching
embodiment, if an application software update is located, the modular controls 148, the wire harness 142 may have six sets
controller 150 may send the user an email, instant messenger of power and data connections available.
message, phone message, phone call, cell phone message, 60 In another embodiment, the wire harness may provide only
cell phone call, fax, pager message, or the like to indicate that power to the modular controls 148 and the communication
software updates are available. The user, using the device that between the modular controls 148 and controller 150 may be
received the notice of software update, may send a reply to the wireless that may include radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR),
control box that the software upgrade should be downloaded, BLUETOOTH, and the like.
should not be downloaded, or the like. 65 In an embodiment, using the remote control 118, the con-
In an embodiment, an adjustable bed facility 102 enter- troller 150 may be able to control power outlets 142 to which
prises, an adjustable bed facility 102 manufacturers, an external devices may be connected; the power outlets 142
US 8,909,357 B2
41 42
may be associated with the adjustable bed facility 102, remote trolled with the remote control 118 controlling the on/off
from the adjustable bed facility 102, or the like. In an embodi- condition of the power outlet 154.
ment' the controller 150 may communicate with the power In an embodiment, the air purification facility 160 may be
outlet 142 using wired or wireless communications. In this a freestanding device that may be connected to an adjustable
embodiment, the power outlets 154 may receive power bed facility 102 modular control 148. The modular control
directly from a household outlet, fuse box, circuit box, or the may provide power (AC or DC), control communication, and
like but the function of the power outlets 154 (e.g. on or off) the like to the air purification facility 160. In an embodiment,
may be controlled by the controller 150. For example, an the user may be able to control the air purification facility 160
external lamp may be connected to the power outlets 154, using the remote control 118 to control the modular controls
there may be a selectable control on the remote control 118 10 148.
for the user to tum the power outlet 154 on and off and In an embodiment, the controller 150 may be able to con-
therefore to tum the lamp on and off. In an embodiment, the trol an external zone climate control system 162; the zone
power outlets 154 may include a control circuit that is able to climate control system 162 may be directly controlled by the
control if the power outlet 154 receives power from the house- control box using a wired or wireless connection. In an
hold current. In an embodiment, there may be more than one 15 embodiment, the wireless connection may be radio frequency
power outlet 154 controlled by the controller 150 and there (RF), infrared (IR), BLUETOOTH, or the like. In an embodi-
may be a selection for each of the power outlets 154 on the ment, the zone climate control system 162 may be any type of
remote control 118. device or facility that may be capable of controlling the envi-
In an embodiment, the power outlets 154 may be directly ronment within one or more zones of the adjustable bed
controlled by the remote control 118 using radio frequency 20 facility 102. In an embodiment, the zone may be a single room
(RF). The remote control and power outlets 154 may be RF or may be two different sides of the adjustable bed facility
capable for communication within the adjustable bed facility 102. In an embodiment, two different users may sleep in
102. The remote control 118 may be able to directly control different environments or two users may sleep in a single
the power outlets 152 to turn the power outlets 154 on and off environment controlled by the zone climate control system
using RF without interfacing with the controller 150. 25 162. In an embodiment, the user may request the provision of
In an embodiment, the controller 150 may be able to con- different environments in the different sides of the adjustable
trol an external air purification 160 facility; the air purifica- bed facility 102. Accordingly, the zone climate control sys-
tion 160 facility may be directly controlled by the control box tem 162 may decide on which side the zone vents are to be
using a wired or wireless connection. In an embodiment, the closed and which side they are to be kept open. Additionally,
wireless connection may be radio frequency (RF), infrared 30 the zone climate control system 162 may heat or cool the
(IR), BLUETOOTH, or the like. In an embodiment, the air zones of the bed, circulate air to heat or cool a zone by mixing
purification facility 160 may be any type of device or facility air with air from another zone, circulate air to reduce exces-
that may be capable of improving that air environment in the sive conditioning of a zone, or circulate air to maintain air
area of the adjustable bed facility 102. In an embodiment, the quality. In an embodiment, the zone climate control system
air purification facility 160 may be an absorbent type (e.g. 35 162 may determine and develop parameters such as airflow,
carbon), electro-static, HEPA filter, or the like. In an embodi- thermal capacity, heating or cooling requirements, and the
ment, absorbent materials may be used in a filter, in the like by measurement and/or derivation.
adjustable bed facility 102, in the mattress 124, or the like to In an embodiment, the zone climate control system 162
absorbed odor, dust, contaminants, or the like from the air may be a free standing device that may be plugged into an
environment around the bed, within the bed, or the like. In an 40 adjustable bed facility 102 power outlet 140 and therefore
embodiment, electro-static or iconic air filters may use nega- may be controlled with the remote control 118 controlling the
tive ions to attract dust, contaminants, and the like from the on/off condition of the power outlet 140.
air. In an embodiment, electro-static materials (e.g. tourma- In an embodiment, the zone climate control system 162
line) may be used in a filter, in the adjustable bed facility 102, may be a freestanding device that may be connected to an
in the mattress 124, or the like to absorbed odor, dust, con- 45 adjustable bed facility 102 modular control 148. The modular
taminants, or the like from the air environment around the control 148 may provide power (AC or DC), control commu-
bed, within the bed, or the like. In an embodiment, HEPA nication, and the like to the zone climate control system 162.
filters are composed of a mat of randomly arranged fibers that In an embodiment, the user may be able to control the zone
are designed to trap at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, climate control system 162 using the remote control 118 to
bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 50 control the modular controls 148.
micrometers (fllll) at 85 liters per minute (Lpm). The HEPA In an embodiment, an adjustable bed facility 102 may be
filter may be used in a device, facility, or the like for filtering any bed that is capable of adjusting at least one aspect of the
the air in the area of the adjustable bed facility 102. bed such as a head section, a foot section, a leg section, a torso
In an embodiment, the air purification facility 160 may be section, or the like. In an embodiment, the adjustment may
part of the adjustable bed facility 102, a freestanding device or 55 include moving the sections up, down, higher, lower, longer,
facility, or the like. In an embodiment, if the air purification shorter, and the like. In an embodiment, the section adjust-
facility 160 is part of the adjustable bed facility 102 the air ments may also include vibration, massage, and the like. In an
purification facility 160 may be attached to any part of the embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 may include
adjustable bed facility 102 such as the mattress 124, sub- components such as actuators 120, springs 122, a mattress
frame 128, skeleton structure 130, or the like. In an embodi- 60 124, a sub-frame 128, a skeleton structure 130, vibration
ment, the air purification facility 160 that is attached to the motors 132, supports 134, safety brackets 138, wire harness
adjustable bed facility 102 may be controlled direct control of 142, communications module 144, modular controls 148,
the air purification facility 160 device, control using the controller 150, power outlets 154, power supply 152, power
remote control 118, or the like. connection 158, air purification facility 160, zone climate
In an embodiment, the air purification facility 160 may be 65 control system 162, remote control 118, receiver learn facility
a free standing device that may be plugged into a adjustable 168, bed memory 170, backup battery 172, memory connec-
bed facility 102 power outlet 154 and therefore may be con- tion 174, network connection 178, and the like.
US 8,909,357 B2
43 44
Applications individual springs (e.g. coil, foam, or air) may be used to
In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 sections provide variable firnmess to provide comfort to the user. For
may be adjustable by a user, a care giver, a medical person, or example, the springs 122 may be less firm or firmer in a local
the like to provide a comfortable position, a medically area to provide the user with the support that may be required
required position, a working position, a resting position, or for a body location that is experiencing discomfort (e.g. a hip,
the like. For example, a medical position may be required to shoulder, back, neck).
elevate a user's legs to aid in the reduction of swelling and In an embodiment, the mattress 124 may include foam,
therefore the leg or foot sections may be elevated. In another feathers, springs 122, material, or the like. In an embodiment,
example, a user with a back condition may need to rest his or the different materials may be used individually or in combi-
her back and may still wish to work; the user may be able to 10 nation. The mattress may be intended to provide the user with
position the adjustable bed facility 102 to provide a comfort- a firnmess that provides for the comfort requirements of the
able back position that may allow the user to work on papers user.
or a computer device. The user may be able to tilt the adjust- In an embodiment, the mattress 124 may be an air mattress.
able bed facility 102 in the shape of a chair in order to rest his In an embodiment, the air mattress may be constructed using
or her back and may sit on the horizontal section of the 15 a single chamber, a plurality of chambers, a plurality of indi-
adjustable bed facility 102. Such an arrangement may be used vidual chambers, a combination of chamber shapes, or the
for watching TV, eating, reading or the like, thereby providing like. In an embodiment, the air mattress 124 may be inflated
the user a comfortable position. to various pressures that may provide the user with the desired
In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 may be comfort level. In an embodiment, there may be separate air
used in a home, a hospital, a long-term care facility, a hotel, or 20 mattresses 124 for each of the adjustable bed facility 102
the like. The adjustable bed facility 102 may be used by users sections. For example, there may be separate air mattresses
that may have limited mobility, are restricted to bed rest, 124 for the head, torso, and foot sections of the adjustable bed
require a non-flat sleeping position, and the like. facility 102. In an embodiment, the inflation pressure of the
In an embodiment, actuators 120 may be used to move the individual air mattresses 124 may be different from each
adjustable bed facility 102 sections. The actuator 120 may 25 other depending on user settings.
typically be a cylinder device where a first component, under In another embodiment of an air mattress 124 with indi-
a force, is extendable from second component that may result vidual chambers, local firnmess control may provide local
in the action of moving an object. In an embodiment, there firnmess comfort to a user to provide comfort. For example, a
may be more than one actuator 120 per adjustable bed facility user may be recovering from surgery and may require the air
102. There may be an actuator 120 to move any of the adjust- 30 mattress 124 to be fewer firms in a certain area, the user may
able bed facility 102 sections or other aspects of the adjust- be able to indicate the area to be less firm and the individual
able bed facility 102. For example, there may be individual chamber pressures may be adjusted to provide the less firm
actuators for the head section, leg section, foot section, torso area. Additionally, while a local area may be provided with
section, or the like. In an embodiment, a single actuator may less firm pressures, the remainder of the mattress 124 may
be used to move more than one adjustable bed facility 102 35 have a consistent firnmess pressure.
section. For example, one actuator may be used to move the In an embodiment, the sub-frame 128 may be a structural
leg and foot sections; the leg and foot sections may be con- support frame in contact with the floor and may include the
nected by a mechanical structure that may control the orien- floor legs, connections for the actuators 120, connections for
tation of the leg and foot sections during movement. In an the supports 134, support for the skeleton structure 130, and
embodiment, the actuators 120 may be connected between 40 the like. In an embodiment, the sub-frame 128 materials may
the adjustable bed facility 102 section to be moved and the include wood, metal, plastic, and the like. In an embodiment,
sub-frame 128, skeleton structure 114, or the like. the sub-frame 128 may provide a support interface to the
In an embodiment, the actuator 120 may have different skeleton structure 130 and may support the freedom of
driving means to extend and retract the actuator 120 such as motion for the skeleton structure 114. For example, the sub-
an electric motor, pneumatic pressure, hydraulic pressure, or 45 frame 128 may include an interface such as a track, surface,
the like. groove, slot, or the like in which the skeleton structure 130
In an embodiment, the electric motor driven actuator 120 may interface and use as a guide while providing motion
may use a DC or AC motor and gear assembly to extend and support for the various adjustable bed facility 102 sections. In
retract the actuator 120. an embodiment, the sub-frame 128 interface may be a "C"
In an embodiment, the pneumatic pressure actuator 120 50 channel in which the skeleton structure 130 may have inter-
may use an air source to extend and retract the actuator 120. facing wheels to move within the "C" channel during the
The air source may be part of the pneumatic actuator 120, may adjustable bed facility 102 section movements.
be a separate device, or the like. In an embodiment, the In an embodiment, the sub-frame 128 may be substantially
separate air source device may be part of the adjustable bed the same shape as the adjustable bed facility 102 and may
facility 102 or may be external to the adjustable bed facility 55 have structural members along the length and width of the
102. sub-frame 128. In an embodiment, the structural members
In an embodiment, the hydraulic pressure actuator 120 may may be assembled in any configuration that meets the require-
use a fluid source to extend and retract the actuator 120. The ments of supporting the adjustable bed facility 102 and the
fluid source may be part of the hydraulic actuator 120, may be various devices such as the actuators 120, supports 134, skel-
a separate device, or the like. In an embodiment, the separate 60 eton structure 128, and the like.
fluid source device may be part of the adjustable bed facility In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may be a
102 or may be external to the adjustable bed facility 102. mechanical structure that may provide support to the springs
In an embodiment, springs 122 may be used with a mattress 122, provide support to the mattress 124, interface with the
124, instead of a mattress 124, or the like. In an embodiment, sub-frame 128, provide a connection to the actuators 120,
the springs may be a standard bed spring system (e.g. coils 65 provide a connection to the supports 134, support the vibra-
within a wire framework), individual coil springs, individual tion motors 132, and the like. In an embodiment, there may be
foam springs, air springs, or the like. In an embodiment, the more than one skeleton structure 130 within the adjustable
US 8,909,357 B2
45 46
bed facility 102; there may be a skeleton structure 130 for the remote control 118, or the like. As an example of manual
each adjustable bed facility 102 section. For example, there input, the vibration motor 13 2 may be operating on a medium
may be a skeleton structure 130 for the head section, foot frequency and the user may provide a stop vibration input on
section, leg section, torso section, and the like. the remote control 118 to stop the first vibration motor 132
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may be a vibration before pressing the low vibration frequency input.
frame type structure to support at least one mattress 124, Referring to FIG. SA and FIG. 5B, an embodiment of a
provide connectivity between more than one mattress 124, vibration motor 132 is shown within an opening of an adjust-
contain a hinge mechanism to allow the motion of a first able bed facility 102 support lateral surface 508. The adjust-
mattress 124 in relation to a second mattress 124, and the like. able bed facility 102 section may have a lateral surface 508
The frame structure may be substantially the same shape as 10 and the lateral surface 508 may include an opening in which
the mattress 124 that the skeleton structure 130 is supporting the vibration motor 132 may be located; the vibration motor
and may have individual structure members at the peripheral 132 may fit within the opening such that the vibration motor
edges of the mattress 124 in addition to other individual 132 may not contact the lateral surface 508. In an embodi-
structural members that may be required for support of ment, the vibration motor 132 may be secured to the adjust-
mechanical connections, support of the mattress 124, or the 15 able bed facility 102 section using at least one bracket 504. In
like. In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may an embodiment, when more than one bracket 504 is used, at
include materials such as metal, wood, plastic, and the like. least one of the brackets 504 may be separable and removable.
The skeleton structure 130 materials may be used individu- In an embodiment, the at least one bracket 504 may be shaped
ally or in combination. to secure the vibration motor 132 within the section opening
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may have an 20 such as a straight bracket, a U shaped bracket, an L shaped
interface facility such as wheels, slides, skids, rails, pivot bracket, or the like; in FIG. SA and FIG. 5B the bracket 504 is
points, and the like that may interface with the sub-frame 128 shown as a straight bracket 504. In an embodiment, the
support interface. The skeleton structure 130 interface facility removal of one of the brackets 504 may facilitate securing the
may provide for smooth interaction with the sub-frame 128 vibration motor 132 to the bed section, facilitating the servic-
support interface when the skeleton structure 130 is in motion 25 ing of the vibration motor 132, or the like. The bracket 504
as a result of actuation from the actuators 120. may be positioned such that at least one portion of the bracket
In an embodiment, a vibration facility 132 may provide 504 is within the opening of the lateral surface 508 and may
vibration input to the adjustable bed facility 102 sections such also be positioned such that the bracket 504 may overlap the
as the head section, foot section, leg section, torso section, vibration motor 132 flange. The vibration motor 132 flange
and the like; there may be vibration facilities in any or all of 30 may extend beyond the perimeter of the opening of the mat-
the adjustable bed facility 102 sections. In an embodiment, tress support and the resilient material 502 may provide posi-
the vibration facilities 132 may be operated independently, at tional support for the vibration motor 132 so that the flange
the same time, at alternate times, in coordination, or the like. imparts vibration to the mattress 124 without contacting the
For example, the vibration facilities 132 in the head section mattress support. The at least one bracket 504 may be coupled
and foot section may be operated at the same time to provide 35 to the mattress support 508 using a removable coupling.
a full body massage or the vibration frequencies may operate Removing the at least one bracket may facilitate removing
at alternating times to provide a wave effect of the vibration and servicing the motor. The resilient material 502 may pro-
moving from the head to foot of the adjustable bed facility vide mechanical insulation between the flange and the perim-
102. In another example, the different vibration facilities 132 eter of the opening in the mattress support 508. The resilient
may be used in concert where the vibration facilities 132 may 40 material 502 disposed between the flange and the lateral
be vibrated in sequences to create a massaging effect. It may support 508 surface of the at least one bracket 504 may further
be understood by one knowledgeable in the art that different provide positional support for the vibration motor 132 hous-
effects may be created with more than one vibration facility ing. The bracket 504 may be constructed using material such
132. as plastic, metal, or the like and may be constructed using the
In an embodiment, using the remote control 118, the user 45 materials individually or in combination. In an embodiment,
may be able to control the vibration mode of the various there may be a resilient material 502 associated with the
vibration motors 132; the mode may include the vibration brackets 504, the resilient material may provide for dampen-
setting for a particular bed section, the vibration frequency of ing the vibration between the vibration motor 132 and the
at least one of the vibration motors 132, stopping the vibration adjustable bed facility 102, may contact the vibration motor
of at least one of the vibration motors, or the like. The remote 50 132 to secure the vibration motor 132 to the bed section, may
control 118 may provide vibration motor 132 control infor- provide for dampening of vibration to the adjustable bed
mation to the adjustable bed facility 102 controller 150 for facility 102 and hold the vibration motor 132 in place, or the
control of the vibration characteristics of the adjustable bed like. The resilient material 502 may include latex foam, poly-
facility 102. In an embodiment, the remote control 118 may urethane foam, polypropylene foam, polyethylene foam, or
include user inputs that include at least one of head vibration 55 the like and may be used individually or in combination.
increase, head vibration decrease, foot vibration increase, In an embodiment, the vibration facility 132 may be con-
foot vibration decrease, user preferred vibration settings, nected to the skeleton structure 114, the mattress 124, the
vibration stop, or the like. lateral surface 508, or the like where the vibration may be
In an embodiment, the vibration motor 132 may be capable imparted into the adjustable bed facility 102 mattress 124 as
of a plurality of vibration frequencies. For example, the vibra- 60 desired by the user. In an embodiment, the vibration motor
tion motor 132 may be able to operate on frequencies such as 132 flange may provide surface area that may impart a vibra-
high, medium, low, settings 1-10, or the like. In an embodi- tion into the mattress 124. In an embodiment, the vibration
ment, a first vibration frequency may be stopped before a motor 132 may be secured to the adjustable bed facility 102
second vibration frequency is started. In embodiments, the section using two separable brackets; at least one of the two
stopping between the first vibration and the second vibration 65 separable brackets may be removable. In an embodiment, the
may be automatic and controlled by the logic within the removal of one of the brackets may facilitate securing the
controller 150, may be manually indicated by the user using vibration motor 132 to the bed section, facilitating the servic-
US 8,909,357 B2
47 48
ing of the vibration motor 13 2, or the like. The bracket may be embodiments, a plurality of fabric covers may be disposed
constructed using a material such as plastic, metal, or the like over the resilient material 502 and/or an adjustable bed facil-
and may be constructed using the materials individually or in ity 102 section to provide stabilization. In an embodiment, the
combination. In an embodiment, there may be a resilient vibrator facility 132 may impart vibrations to a mattress 124
material attached to the brackets, the resilient material may through a resilient material 502 and a fabric or plurality of
provide for a dampening the vibration between the vibration fabrics covering the resilient material 502 and/or adjustable
motor 132 and the adjustable bed facility 102, may contact the bed facility 102 section.
vibration motor 132 to secure the vibration motor 132 to the In an embodiment, the resilient material 502 may be foam,
bed section, or the like. For example, the brackets may be cotton matting, or the like. In an embodiment, the vibration
attached to the adjustable bed facility 102 section with the 10 distribution facility may be plastic, wood, rubber, metal, or
resilient material making contact with the vibration motor the like and may be any size and/or shape that supports the
132 that may be in an opening of the section. The resilient required vibration characteristics. The vibration distribution
material may provide the force required to hold the vibration facility may have a plurality of barbs or other anchoring
motor in place within the section opening and may provide devices that may be pushed into the resilient material, strong
dampening of the vibration to the adjustable bed facility. The 15 fabric, or the like to secure the vibration distribution facility in
resilient material may include latex foam, polyurethane foam, place on top of the resilient material, strong fabric, or the like.
polypropylene foam, polyethylene foam, or the like and may In an embodiment, the barbs or other anchoring devices may
be used individually or in combination. have a number of gripping edges, points, or the like to provide
In an embodiment, the electric motor vibration facility 132 a connection with the resilient material and strong fabric.
may use DC or AC current to power the motor. In an embodi - 20 In an embodiment, the vibrator facility 132 may be
ment, to provide the vibration, the motor may rotate an offset mounted to the vibration distribution facility through the
mass on the motor shaft that may cause the vibration facility opening of the adjustable bed facility 102 section lateral
132, mattress 124, skeleton structure 130, or the like to surface 508. In an embodiment, the vibration motor 13 2 may
vibrate. The user may feel the vibration through the mattress be operatively connected to the vibration distribution facility,
124, springs 122, or the like. 25 may be in contact with the vibration distribution facility, may
In an embodiment, an air bladder or air spring may be used not be in contact with the vibration distribution facility, or the
to provide a vibration to the adjustable bed facility 102. In an like. In an embodiment, there may be a layer of resilient
embodiment, the air bladder or air spring air pressure may be material, strong fabric, or the like between the vibrator motor
varied at a frequency to create a vibration within the vibration 118 and the vibration distribution facility.
facility 132, mattress 124, skeleton structure 130, or the like. 30 In an embodiment, any space between the vibration facility
In an embodiment, there may be an air supply unit that sup- 132 and the opening of the adjustable bed facility 102 section
plies the frequency varied air pressure to the air bladder or air may be filled with a vibration absorbent material such as
spring. foam, cotton matting, rubber, or the like. The absorbent mate-
In an embodiment, the vibration motor 132 may be in rial may provide a layer of vibration insulation between the
proximity to a vibration distribution facility that may aid in 35 vibration facility 132 and the adjustable bed facility 102
the propagation of vibration energy to the adjustable bed section opening.
facility 102 section. In an embodiment, the vibration motor In an embodiment, the combination of the vibration distri-
132 may be operatively connected to the vibration distribu- bution facility and vibration facility 132 may be a vibration
tion facility, may be in contact with the vibration distribution facility assembly. In an embodiment, the vibration facility
facility, may not be in contact with the vibration distribution 40 132 assembly may be attached to the adjustable bed facility
facility, or the like. In an embodiment, the vibration distribu- 118 sections with the plurality of barbs or anchoring devices.
tion facility may provide for a more uniform distribution of Referring again to FIG. 1, in an embodiment, the supports
the vibration characteristics of the vibration motor 132 and 134 may be hydraulic pressurized cylinders that may provide
may have a size and shape relative to the size and shape of the additional control of the decent of the adjustable bed facility
adjustable bed facility 102 section. The vibration distribution 45 102 sections. The pressurized supports 134 may be designed
facility may be constructed using materials such as plastic, to support a certain amount of weight that may include the
rubber, metal, or the like and may be constructed using these skeleton structure 130, mattress 124, springs 122, user, and
materials individually or in combination. In an embodiment, the like. In an embodiment, the pressurized cylinders may be
the user may be able to control the speed, amplitude, pulse, similar to the type of supports that are used in automobile
and the like of the vibration facility 132 using an interface 50 trunks to support the trunk open while the user access the
such as the remote control 118. trunk area.
In an embodiment, the vibrator facility 132 may be In an embodiment, the supports 134 may provide a safety
mounted to the mattress 124 using the vibration distribution feature when combined with the safety bracket 138. The
facility, resilient material 502, strong fabric, or the like. In an safety bracket 138 may prevent the actuators from forcibly
embodiment, each adjustable bed facility 102 section that 55 pulling the adjustable bed facility 102 sections down; the
includes a vibrator facility 118 may have an opening in the safety bracket is described in more detail below. The supports
section to accept the vibrator facility 118. In an embodiment, 134 may be positioned on the sections that are actuated and
over the opening in the section, a layer of resilient material may provide a controlled speed at which the sections will
502, strong fabric, or the like may be placed. The layer of return to a horizontal position. In an embodiment, the support
resilient material 502, strong fabric, or the like may be placed 60 134 may provide support of a weight that is less than the
between the vibrator facility 132 and the mattress 124. In an weight of the section, therefore the section will provide
embodiment, the vibrator facility 132 may impart vibrations enough force (e.g. weight) on the support 134 to compress the
to a mattress 124 through the resilient material 502 disposed cylinder and move the section down. In an embodiment, there
over an opening in an adjustable bed facility 102 section. In an may be more than one support 134 for each actuated adjust-
embodiment, a fabric cover may be disposed over the resilient 65 able bed facility 102 section. In an embodiment, the support
material 502 and/or an adjustable bed facility 102 section, 134 may be connected between the skeleton structure 130 and
between the vibrator facility 132 and the mattress 124. In the sub-frame 128.
US 8,909,357 B2
49 50
In an embodiment, the safety bracket 138 may be a slotted wireless or wired connection to the remote control 118. In an
bracket that provides the connection between the actuators embodiment, the wireless remote control 118 to communica-
120 and the skeleton structure 130 for the purpose of moving tions module 144 communications may be a radio frequency
the adjustable bed facility 102 sections. A side of the slot that (RF) communication, infrared (IR) communication, BLUE-
is farthest from the actuator 120 may be the slot first side and TOOTH communication, or the like. In an embodiment, the
may be the side that the actuator 120 pushes on to move the communications module 144 may receive the communica-
adjustable bed 102 section up.A side of the slot that is nearest tion command from the remote control 118 and transmit the
to the actuator 120 may be the slot second side and may be the remote control 118 command to the controller 150. The com-
side the actuator 120 pulls on to move the adjustable bed 102 munication with the controller 150 may be wireless or wired.
section down. In an embodiment, when the actuator 120 is 10 In an embodiment, the wireless communication between the
expanding and moving an adjustable bed facility 102 section communications module 144 and the controller 150 may be a
it may apply a force on the first side of the slot and move the radio frequency (RF) communication, infrared (IR) commu-
section in an upward direction. When the actuator 120 is nication, BLUETOOTH communication, or the like. In an
retracted to move the section in a downward direction, the embodiment, the communications module 144 may be com-
actuator 120 connection may move into the middle area (e.g. 15 bined with the controller 150 into a single component. In an
not in contact with the first or second side of the slot) of the embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may be used as an RF
safety bracket 138 slot. As the actuator 120 connection moves antenna for receiving communication from the remote con-
into the slot middle area, the adjustable bed facility 102 trol118 to the communications module 144. In embodiment,
section may move in a downward motion under the force of the entire skeleton structure 130 may be used as an antenna; a
section weight. In an embodiment, the actuator 120 may 20 portion of the skeleton structure 130 may be used as an
retract at the same speed as the safety bracket 138 moves; antenna, or the like.
therefore the actuator 120 connection may stay in the safety In an embodiment, the modular controls 148 may provide
bracket 138 slot middle areas and not make contact with the additional functionality to the adjustable bed facility 102 that
second side of the safety bracket 138 slot. In this marmer, the may include a headboard, a footboard, a table, a cabinet, a
actuator 120 connection may not contact the second side of 25 book shelf, a refrigerator, a freezer, a space for personal waste
the slot and therefore the adjustable bed 102 section may not accommodation that may include a stereo, a CD player, an
move in the downward direction by the force of the actuator MP3 player, a DVD player, a lamp, a digital recorder, one or
120. more speakers with a surround sound system, a printer
In an embodiment, if the actuator 120 connection comes in machine, a fax machine, a display system, power outlets 154,
contact with the second side of the safety bracket 138 slot, 30 an air purification facility 160, a zoned climate control system
there may be a shutoff switch, shutoff indicator, or the like 150 or the like. The additional functionality that the modular
that may stop the retraction of the actuator 104. controls 148 provide may be considered optional equipment
In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 102 may that may be offered with the adjustable bed facility 102. For
include an electronic facility 140. In an embodiment, the example, a user may be able to purchase an adjustable bed
electronic facility 140 may include a wire harness 142, a 35 facility 102 without any modular controls 148 and may add
communications module 144, power outlets 154, modular modular controls as he or she desires. In another example, the
controls 148, a power supply 152, a power connection 158, user may purchase the adjustable bed facility 102 with modu-
and the like. In an embodiment, different components of the lar controls already installed.
electronic facility 140 may be individual components, com- In an embodiment, the modular controls 148 may have
bined components, individual and combined components, or 40 predetermined mounting locations on the sub-frame 128,
the like. For example, the communications module 144, con- skeleton structure 130, or the like. Such locations may have a
troller 150, and power supplied may be individual compo- widespread pivot to couple the modular controls with the
nents, may be combined into a single component, may be a adjustable bed facility 102. For example, the refrigerator can
combination of individual and combined components, or the be removed and replaced by another refrigerator without any
like. In an embodiment, the various electronic facility 140 45 modification in the pivot connecting the refrigerator and the
components may be mounted on the sub-frame 128, skeleton adjustable bed facility 102. In a similar manner, additional
structure 114, or the like as required for the particular com- devices and facilities may be coupled to the adjustable bed
ponent. facility 102 using the widespread pivot. In an embodiment,
In an embodiment, the wire harness 142 may provide these devices and facilities coupled via the pivot may be
power and data connections to a plurality of modular controls 50 removed for various functions. For example, a user may
148. Depending on the power supply 152, the wire harness remove a device for repairing, for upgrading the devices with
142 may provide either DC or AC power to the modular new and additional functionalities and the like. Also, the user
controls 148. In an embodiment, the data connections may be may remove the device to perform some other function. For
serial, parallel, or the like. In an embodiment, the wire harness example, a foot section may be removed to create a chair in
may have the same number of power/data connections as 55 the adjustable bed facility 102. Therefore, the modular con-
there are possible modular controls 148. In an embodiment, trols 148 may be compact, ready to use, provide a plurality of
the wire harness may be a unit of power/data connections that additional functionalities and may be mounted in accordance
may be bound together into a single wire harness. In another with the user's requirements.
embodiment, the wire harness may be a group of individual In an embodiment, these devices and facilities may receive
power/data connections. In an embodiment, for each indi- 60 power from power outlets 154 controlled by the modular
vidual wire in the bundle, group, or the like, a first end may control 148. The modular control 148 may directly or indi-
have connections for the controller 150 and power supply rectly control the facilities that are connected to the modular
152. A second end of the wire harness 142 may be a power and control 148. Further, the user may control the power outlet
data connection for each individual modular control 148. 140 to turn the device on or offbut the user may not be able to
In an embodiment, a communications module 144 may 65 control the individual device (e.g. raising or lowering of the
receive user commands from a remote control 118. In an foot board). In an embodiment, the user may control the
embodiment, the communications module 144 may have a additional functional devices by using the remote control 118
US 8,909,357 B2
51 52
that may have an interface for each of the modular controls In an embodiment, the modular controls 148 may be con-
148. For example, there may be an interface on the remote nected to the controller 150, power supply 152, or the like; the
control 118 for raising the footboard, lowering the footboard, connection may be the wire harness 142. In an embodiment,
placing the foot board inside its cabinet or the like. Also, the the modular controls 148 may communicate with the control-
user may open/close the book shelf, tum on/off the refrigera- ler 150 by a wireless means that may include radio frequency
tor by the interface of the remote control 118. In a similar (RF), infrared (IR), BLUETOOTH, or other wireless com-
manner, the user may be able to control if a power outlet 140 munication type.
provided by a modular control 148 is on or off. In an embodiment, the controller 150 may interpret com-
In an embodiment, the modular controls 148 may directly mands received from the communications module 144 into
control devices, indirectly control devices, or the like such as 10
commands for the various adjustable bed facility 102 com-
a stereo, CD player, DVD player, a digital recorder, one or
ponents such as the actuators 120, the vibration facility 132,
more speakers with a surround sound system, air purification
the modular controls 148, power outlets 154, and the like. In
facilities, a printer machine, a fax machine or the like. These
devices and facilities may receive power from power outlets an embodiment, the controller 150 may contain a micropro-
154 that are controlled by the modular control 148. In an 15
cessor, microcontroller, or the like to run a software applica-
example, the modular control 148 may directly control a lamp tion to interpret the commands received from the remote
that is connected to the modular control 148 but may indi- control 118 through the communications module 144. In an
rectly control a device or facility that is plugged into a power embodiment, the software application may be interrupt
outlet 154 controlled by the modular control 148. Further, the based, polling based, or other application method for deter-
user may control the power outlet 154 to tum the device on or 20 mining when a user has selected a command on the remote
off but the user may not be able to control the individual control 118. In an embodiment, the software application may
device (e.g. the volume or functions of a stereo system). In an be stored in the controller 150, stored in bed memory 170, or
embodiment, the user may control the additional functional the like and may be stored as software, as firmware, as hard-
devices by using the remote control 118 that may have an ware, or the like.
interface for each of the modular controls 148. For example, 25 In an embodiment, the controller 150 may receive infor-
there may be an interface on the remote control 118 for mation from the communications module 144 by wired com-
selecting the function of the stereo system, increasing or munication, wireless communication, or the like. In an
decreasing the volume of the system, as well as turning on a embodiment, the wireless communication may be by radio
lamp, turning off a lamp, dimming a lamp, and the like. In a frequency (RF), infrared (IR), BLUETOOTH, or other wire-
similar marmer, the user may be able to control if a power 30 less communication type.
outlet 154 provided by a modular control 148 is on or off. In an embodiment, after the controller 150 has interpreted
In an embodiment, the user may install one or more display the received user commands, the controller 150 may transmit
systems. The display system may be an LCD mounted on a the interpreted commands to the various controllers for the
swivel arm, a projector system, a footboard integrated flat adjustable bed facility 102 components such as the actuators
screen, and the like. The user may control the display systems 35 120, vibrator facility 132, modular controls 148, power out-
by using the remote control 118 that may have an interface for lets 154, and the like. The controller 150 may transmit infor-
the display systems. For example, turning the display system mation that may be further interpreted by the components into
on/off, adjusting the resolution of the screen, fine tuning the commands for the individual components. For example, the
contrast and brightness of the display, and the like. In an controller 150 may receive a command to move the head
exemplary scenario, the swivel arm may be mounted on the 40 section up. The controller 150 may interpret the remote con-
sub-frame 128, skeleton structure 130, or the like. In another trol118 command into a command the actuator may under-
exemplary scenario, the footboard integrated flat screen may stand and may transmit the command to extend the head
be placed inside or outside a compartment. Further, the inte- section actuator to move the head section up.
grated flat screen may be raised or lowered, into the stored In an embodiment, the power supply 152 may receive
compartment or may be fixed in a single position. The user 45 power from a standard wall outlet, fuse box, circuit box, or the
may be able to tum the power outlet 154 on/off using the like and may provide power to all the powered components of
remote control 118. the adjustable bed facility 102. In an embodiment, the power
In an embodiment, the user may control additional func- supply 152 may provide DC power or AC power to the com-
tional devices by using communication ports. The communi- ponents. In an embodiment, if the power supply 152 provides
cation ports may enable the use of additional devices such as 50 DC power, the power supply 152 may convert the incoming
a printer machine, a fax machine, and the like. The additional AC power into DC power for the adjustable bed facility 102.
device connection may be a serial connection, a USB connec- In an embodiment, the power outlets 154 may provide
tion, a USB device, a parallel connection, a wireless connec- standard household AC current using a standard outlet for use
tion, or the like. The user may control the printer machine by by external devices using a standard plug. In an embodiment,
using the remote control 118 that may have an interface for 55 the power outlets 154 may receive power directly from a
the printer machine. For example, there may be an interface standard wall outlet, a fuse box, a circuit box, or the like, but
on the remote control 118 for turning on a printer machine, the controller 150 may control whether the power outlet 154
turning off the printer machine, executing one or more print on or off. In an embodiment, the power outlet 154 may have
commands, canceling the print commands, and the like. In a a control circuit that may determine if the power outlet 154 is
similar manner, the user may also control the fax machine by 60 active (on) or inactive (off). In an embodiment, the command
using the remote control 118 that may have an interface for to indicate if the power outlet 154 is active or inactive may be
the fax machine. The user may furnish one or more fax com- received from the controller 150. In an embodiment, the con-
mands, receive incoming fax commands, tum the fax troller 150 may receive commands for the power outlet 154
machine on/off with the use of the fax machine interface on control from the remote control 118.
the remote control 118. In an exemplary scenario, the user 65 In an embodiment, the power connection 158 may receive
may be able to turn the power outlet 154 provided by the standard power for the adjustable bed facility 102 from a
modular control 148 on/off using the remote control 118. standard outlet, fuse box, circuit box, or the like. In an
US 8,909,357 B2
53 54
embodiment, the power connection 158 may provide stan- maintain air quality. In an embodiment, the zone climate
dard AC power to the power outlets 154, the power supply control system 162 may determine and develop parameters
152, or the like. such as airflow, thermal capacity, heating or cooling require-
In an embodiment, the air purification facility 160 may be ments, and the like by measurement and/or derivation.
any type of device or facility that may be capable of improv- In an embodiment, the zone climate control system 162
ing that air environment in the area of the adjustable bed may be a free standing device that may be plugged into an
facility 102. In an embodiment, the air purification facility adjustable bed facility 102 power outlet 140 and therefore
160 may be an absorbent type (e.g. carbon), electro-static, may be controlled with the remote control 118 controlling the
HEPA filter, or the like. In an embodiment, absorbent mate- on/off condition of the power outlet 140.
rials may be used in a filter, in the adjustable bed facility 102, 10 In an embodiment, the zone climate control system 162
in the mattress 124, or the like to absorbed odor, dust, con- may be a freestanding device that may be connected to an
taminants, or the like from the air environment aronnd the adjustable bed facility 102 modular control 148. The modular
bed, within the bed, or the like. In an embodiment, electro- control 148 may provide power (AC or DC), control commu-
static or iconic air filters may use negative ions to attract dust, nication, and the like to the zone climate control system 162.
contaminants, and the like from the air. In an embodiment, 15 In an embodiment, the user may be able to control the zone
electro-static materials (e.g. tourmaline) may be used in a climate control system 162 using the remote control 118 to
filter, in the adjustable bed facility 102, in the mattress 124, or control the modular controls 148.
the like to absorbed odor, dust, contaminants, or the like from In an embodiment, the remote control 118 may be a user
the air environment aronnd the bed, within the bed, or the like. controlled device to provide control commands to the con-
In an embodiment, HEPA filters are composed of a mat of 20 troller 150 to command certain fnnctions of the adjustable
randomly arranged fibers that are designed to trap at least bed facility 102. In an embodiment, the certain functions may
99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne be adjustable bed facility section movement (e.g. up or
particles with a size of 0.3 micrometers (fllll) at 85 liters per down), vibration control, modular controlled 132 devices, or
minute (Lpm). The HEPA filter may be used in a device, the like. In an embodiment, the remote control 118 may
facility, or the like for filtering the air in the area of the 25 communicate with the control box using wired commnnica-
adjustable bed facility 102. tion, wireless communication, or the like. In an embodiment,
In an embodiment, the air purification facility 160 may be the wireless communication may be using a radio frequency
part of the adjustable bed facility 102, a freestanding device or (RF), infrared (IR), BLUETOOTH, or the like. If the remote
facility, or the like. In an embodiment, if the air purification communicates using a wireless technology, the commnnica-
facility 160 is part of the adjustable bed facility 102 the air 30 tion may be with the communications module 144 and the
purification facility 160 may be attached to any part of the communications module 144 may pass the command request
adjustable bed facility 102 such as the mattress 124, sub- to the controller 150.
frame 128, skeleton structure 130, or the like. In an embodi- In an embodiment, the user may indicate the certain adjust-
ment, the air purification facility 160 that is attached to the able bed facility 102 fnnction using the remote control 118 by
adjustable bed facility 102 may be controlled direct control of 35 pressing a button, touching a screen, entering a code, speak-
the air purification facility 160, control using the remote ing a command, or the like. In an embodiment, the controller
control 118, or the like. 150, using the commnnications module 144, may receive and
In an embodiment, the air purification facility 160 may be interpret the command provided by the remote control 118. In
a free standing device that may be plugged into an adjustable an embodiment, the certain functions available on the remote
bed facility 102, power outlet 154 and therefore may be 40 may instruct the controller 150 to directly control a device
controlled with the remote control 118 controlling the on/off (e.g. actuator 104), control a modular control 148 connected
condition of the power outlet 154. device, or the like. The remote may control devices with
In an embodiment, the air purification facility 160 may be commands that may include on, off, high power, medium
a freestanding device that may be connected to an adjustable power, low power, volume, play, fast forward, rewind, skip,
bed facility 102 modular control 148. The modular control 45 modular device to control, or the like. For example, the
148 may provide power (AC or DC), control commnnication, remote control 118 may transmit a command to move the
and the like to the air purification facility 160. In an embodi- head section up and the controller 150 may command the
ment, the user may be able to control the air purification actuator 120 to extend a certain amount in response to the
facility 160 using the remote control 118 to control the modu- command. In another example, the remote control 118 may
lar controls 148. 50 command that a modular control 148 connected lamp be
In an embodiment, the zone climate control system 162 turned off.
may be any type of device or facility that may be capable of In an embodiment, the remote control 118 may save adjust-
controlling the environment within one or more zones of the able bed facility 102 user preferred settings to a plurality of
adjustable bed facility 102. In an embodiment, the zone may memory locations that may be used to maintain the user
be a single room or may be two different sides of the adjust- 55 determined bed position, an adjustable bed facility 102 his-
able bed facility 102. In an embodiment, two different users torical setting, or the like. For example, the user may have a
may sleep in different environments or two users may sleep in certain preferred adjustable bed facility 102 position that may
a single environment controlled by the zone climate control be stored in at least one of the memory locations that the user
system 162. In an embodiment, the user may request the may be able to later recall to move the adjustable bed facility
provision of different environments in the different sides of 60 into the user preferred position. By indicating the recall of the
the adjustable bed facility 102. Accordingly, the zone climate at least one memory locations, the adjustable bed facility 102
control system 162 may decide on which side the zone vents controller 150 may command the various components to
are to be closed and which side they are to be kept open. move to the stored memory location position to achieve the
Additionally, the zone climate control system 162 may heat or recalled position. In an embodiment, for a remote control 118
cool the zones of the bed, circulate air to heat or cool a zone 65 that may contain buttons, the user may press a single button,
by mixing air with air from another zone, circulate air to a combination of buttons, or the like to recall the memory
reduce excessive conditioning of a zone, or circulate air to position desired.
US 8,909,357 B2
55 56
In an embodiment, the remote control 118 may have but- used to communicate with a first adjustable bed facility 102
tons, an LCD screen, a plasma screen, or the like to allow the and may be used to establish communication between the
user to indicate the desired command. In an embodiment, the same remote and a second adjustable bed facility 102. The
user may press a button to indicate a command to the control- remote control 118 may only be able to communicate with
ler 150. In an embodiment, the LCD or plasma screens may be one adjustable bed facility 102 at a time.
touch screen sensitive. In an embodiment, the remote control In an embodiment, a learn protocol between the remote
118 screen may present the available controls to the user and control 118 and communications module 144 may be user
the user may touch the screen to indicate the command initiated by pressing a button on the receiver learn facility
desired. For example, the remote control 118 screen may only 168, powering up the receiver learn facility 168, bringing the
present controls that are available in the adjustable bed facil- 10 receiver learn facility 168 within a certain proximity of the
ity 102; therefore, if a modular control 148 is not available, communications module 144, indicating on the remote con-
the remote control 118 may not display a selection for that trol118 to begin the learn protocol, or the like. In an embodi-
modular control 148. In an embodiment, the remote control ment' the learn protocol may be fully automatic, semi-auto-
118 screen may present content sensitive selections to the matic with user intervention, manual, or the like. In an
user. For example, if the user selected to control a CD player, 15 embodiment, a user may select a channel, frequency, or the
the user may be presented with CD player controls that may like during learn protocol or after the learn protocol. The
include play, fast forward, rewind, skip, stop, repeat, or the changing of the charmel, frequency, or the like may prevent
like. Also, the LCD touch screen may provide infonnation two different remote control 118 and communications mod-
relating to temperature, humidity, weather infonnation, cal- ule 144 combinations from interfering with other wireless
endar, and contact personnel's lists, to-do lists, navigating 20 communication devices. In an embodiment, each time the
maps or the like. learn protocol is executed, a new unique communication link
In an embodiment, the remote control 118 may provide may be established; there may be a plurality of unique com-
feedback to the user to indicate the success of the certain munication links available for each remote control 118 and
command. In an embodiment, the feedback may be an audio communications module 144 combination.
feedback, a visual feedback, a forced feedback, or the like. In 25 In an embodiment, the bed memory 170 may be the
an embodiment, the feedback types may be used individually memory location where the controller 150 stores user desired
or in combination. In an embodiment, the audio feedback preset infonnation, software for interpreting remote control
may be a sound that indicates that the command was success- 118 commands, demonstration software, and the like. In an
ful, failed, is in progress, in conflict with a command in embodiment, the bed memory 170 may be removable
progress, failed for safety reasons, or the like. In an embodi - 30 memory. For example, the bed memory 170 may be moved
ment, the visual feedback may be an indication of the remote from a first adjustable bed facility 102 to a second bed facility
control 118 screen that indicates that the command was suc- 102 to move user settings from the first adjustable bed facility
cessful, failed, is in progress, in conflict with a command in 102 to the second bed facility 102. In this manner, the bed
progress, failed for safety reasons, or the like. In an embodi- memory 170 may be considered portable memory. In an
ment' the forced feedback may be a vibration that indicates 35 embodiment, the removable bed memory 170 may be flash
that the command was successful, failed, is in progress, in memory, programmable logic circuit memory, secure digital
conflict with a command in progress, failed for safety reasons, (SD) memory, mini SD memory, Compact Flash type I
or the like. memory, Compact Flash type II memory, Memory Stick,
In an embodiment, a memory facility 164 may contain Multimedia Card, xD Picture card, Smartmedia, eXtreme
components that are intended to maintain certain memory 40 Digital, Microdrive, or the like.
locations for the control box to access, receiver to access, and In an embodiment, the removable bed memory 170 may be
the like. In an embodiment, the memory facility 164 may used to upgrade the adjustable bed facility 102 memory and
include a receiver learn facility 168, a bed memory 170, a software. For example, if new controller 150 software was
backup battery 172, and the like. In an embodiment, the developed to provide better control over one of the adjustable
receiver learn facility 168, bed memory 170, and backup 45 bed facility 102 components, the software may be saved to a
battery 172 may be in a single memory facility 164 or may be new replaceable memory that may be used in the place of the
in more than one memory facilities 154. In an embodiment, existing replaceable memory. In this marmer, the software of
the memory facility 164 may be part of the adjustable bed the adjustable bed facility 102 could be upgraded just by
facility 102, part of the electronic facility 140, a separate providing the user with a new replaceable memory.
facility, or the like. In an embodiment, the receiver learn 50 In an embodiment, the removable memory may be used to
facility 168, bed memory 170, and backup battery 172 may provide a sales enterprise with adjustable bed facility 102
not be part of the memory facility 164, but may be combined demonstration software where the enterprise may be able to
into other facilities or devices, be stand-alone devices, or the indicate at least one of a plurality of demonstrations for a user.
like. For example, the user may be interested in how the adjustable
In an embodiment, the receiver learn facility 168 may act to 55 bed facility 102 sections may be adjusted and the enterprise
establish the communication link between the remote control may select a demonstration to shows all the section motion
118 and the communications module 144 where the commu- available. In an embodiment, before an adjustable bed facility
nication between the remote control 118 and communications 102 is shipped to a user, the enterprise may remove the dem-
module 144 is a wireless connection. In an embodiment, the onstration removable memory and replace it with a standard
communication link between the remote control 118 and the 60 adjustable bed facility 102 bed memory 170.
communications module 144 may need to be a unique con- In an embodiment, the backup battery 172 may be used to
nection to assure that the remote control 118 communicates provide power to volatile memory, provide power to the
with only one communications module 144 within one receiver learn facility 168; provide power to the program-
adjustable bed facility 102. In an embodiment, the receiver mable logic circuit memory, or the like.
learns facility 152 may be used to provide a unique commu- 65 In an embodiment, the memory connection 174 may be any
nication between any remote control 118 and any adjustable connection type that provides a connection between the bed
bed facility 102. For example, a remote control 118 may be memory 170, controller 150, and the like. In an embodiment,
US 8,909,357 B2
57 58
the memory connection 174 may be a wired or wireless con- final location of the mattress retaining bracket 402. This
nection. The wired connection may be a USB connection, a mounting method may provide benefits that may include
serial connection, parallel connection, or the like. The wire- mattress retaining bracket 402 breakage prevention, mattress
less connection may be by radio frequency (RF), infrared retaining bracket 402 bending prevention, clear user under-
(IR), BLUETOOTH, or the like. In an embodiment, the standing of the final mattress retaining bracket 402 location,
memory connection 174 may be in a location that is easy for prevention of the mattress retaining bracket 402 becoming
the user to access the bed memory 170, maybe attached to the lost, and the like. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4B,
memory facility 164, may be attached to the controller 150, or once the user receives the adjustable bed facility 102 with the
the like. In an embodiment, the easy access memory connec- upside down mounted mattress retaining bracket 402, the user
tion may be on the side of the adjustable bed facility 102, on 10 may rotate the mattress retaining bracket 402 into the upright
a rail of the adjustable bed facility 102, under the adjustable position and re-secure it to the adjustable bed facility 102.
bed facility 102, or the like. Referring to FIG. 6, an example of an adjustable bed 600
In an embodiment, the network connection 178 may be (without the mattress) is shown with the head 602 and foot
used to connect the controller 150 to a network connection. In 604 sections raised to an elevated position. This adjustable
an embodiment, the network connection may be a LAN, a 15 bed 600 shows that sections, in this case the foot 604 section,
WAN, an Internet, an intranet, peer-to-peer network, or the may be divided into more than one section to provide con-
like. Using the network connection 178, the controller 150 touring of bed sections.
may be able to communicate with computer devices on the Referring to FIG. 7, an example of actuators 120 connected
network. In an embodiment, the network connection 178 may to the bed frame 702 and the adjustable sections 704 is shown.
be a wired or wireless connection. 20 In this case, two actuators 120 are used, one for each adjust-
In an embodiment, using the network connection 178, the able bed section 704.
controller 150 may be able to communicate with the network Referring to FIG. 8, an example of more than one actuator
to periodically check for software updates. In an embodi- 120 for each adjustable bed section 802 is shown; in this case,
ment, if a software update is located, the controller 150 may there are two actuators 120 for each adjustable section 802. In
send the user an email, instant messenger message, phone 25 embodiments, more than one actuator 120 per section 802
message, phone call, cell phone message, cell phone call, fax, may be used if the bed sections 802 are heavy, smaller actua-
pager message, or the like to indicate that software updates tors 120 are used, if the bedis a wide bed (e.g. king bed), orthe
are available. The user, using the device that received the like.
notice of software, may send a reply to the control box that the Referring to FIG. 9, an example of an adjustable bed 900
software upgrade should be downloaded, should not be down- 30 using slats 902 instead of wood decking for the foundation of
loaded, or the like. the adjustable sections is shown. In embodiments, the slats
In an embodiment, an adjustable bed facility 102 enter- 902 may be wood, plastic, rubber, cloth, elastic material, or
prises, an adjustable bed facility 102 manufacturers, an the like. Using this design, the adjustable bed 900 may be
adjustable bed facility 102 service enterprises, or the like may provided with curved contours has shown in the head section
send the controller 150 software updates using the network 35 904. In an embodiment, the curved sections may be con-
connection 178. In an embodiment, an adjustable bed facility structed of a number of small connected individual sections.
102 enterprise, an adjustable bed facility 102 manufacturer, In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may include
an adjustable bed facility 102 service enterprise, or the like more than one section/frame. The sections/frames may be
may notifY the user of available software upgrades for the fixed or may be adjustable/movable. Further, the sections/
adjustable bed facility 102 by email, instant messenger mes- 40 frames may be assembled together to form the skeleton struc-
sage, phone message, phone call, message, cell phone call, ture 130 in such a way that the sections/frames may be able to
fax, pager message, or the like. The user, using the device that move relative to each other to provide the various bed posi-
received the notice of software, may send a reply to the tions required by the user. To achieve this, the sections/frames
adjustable bed facility 102 enterprise, the adjustable bed may be connected together using hinges or like devices that
facility 102 manufacturer, the adjustable bed facility 102 45 allow a freedom of motion between them. In one embodi-
service enterprise, or the like that the software upgrade should ment, one frame/ section may remain fixed and may act as the
be downloaded, should not be downloaded, or the like. foundation for the other movable frames/sections. For
Referring now to FIGS. 4A and 4B, an embodiment of example, in an arrangement as shown in FIGS. lOA and lOB,
shipping and assembling a mattress retaining bracket 402 is the skeleton structure 130 may have a fixed center frame 1002
shown. The mattress retaining bracket 402 may be used to 50 and, optionally, adjustable frames for the head 1004, foot
hold the mattress 124 (not shown) in place on the adjustable 1008, or leg 1010. In this arrangement, the adjustable head
bed facility 102 as the adjustable bed facility 102 sections are frame 1004 and the adjustable leg frame 1010 may be pivot-
adjusted. For example, as the head section is adjusted up, the ally attached to the center frame 1002. The pivot attachments
mattress 124 may tend to slide down towards the foot of the may enable rotational movement of the head frame 1004 and
bed, the mattress retaining bracket 402 may stop the mattress 55 the leg frame 1010 with respect to the fixed center frame
from sliding and may maintain the mattress 124 in the proper 1002. In a scenario, because of this rotational movement, the
position on the adjustable bed facility 102. Inan embodiment, head frame 1004 may be raised with the help of the actuators
there may be a mattress retaining 402 bracket at the head 120 to raise the upper portion of a patient body during meals.
section and/or the foot section of the adjustable bed facility Further, the head frame 1004 may be lowered to the normal
102. 60 level after the patient has had hislher meal. In a similar fash-
In an embodiment, the mattress retaining bracket 402 may ion, a person lying on the adjustable bed 102 may raise or
be made of materials that include metal, plastic, rubber, lower the head frame 1004 and/or the foot frame 1008 to
wood, or the like. In an embodiment, the materials may be hislher convenience. In another embodiment, any or none of
used individually or in combination. the frames/sections may be a fixed foundation section in the
In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4A, when the adjust- 65 adjustable bed facility 102. In embodiments, there may be
able bed facility 102 is shipped to the user, the mattress more than one adjustable bed facility 102 configuration
retaining bracket 402 may be mounted upside down at the depending on the requirements of a user, cost requirements,
US 8,909,357 B2
59 60
medical needs, or the like. For example, there may be a ably connected to the fixed center frame 1002 and addition-
configuration where only the head section is adjustable to ally supported by the sub-frame 128 using a moveable inter-
provide the user with the ability to have an elevated upper face connection.
body position. This configuration may be a single purpose In an embodiment, the sub-frame 128 may be the rigid
bed but may also provide the user with a less expensive structure that is in contact to the floor and may provide a base
adjustable bed facility 102 that meets the user's needs. One for any fixed adjustable bed facility 102 sections and an
skilled in the art may understand that there may be many interface for any movable adjustable bed facility 102 sections.
different adjustable bed facility configurations containing In an embodiment, the sub-frame 128 legs may be connected
fixed and moveable sections. For example, FIG. 35 shows an to the sub-frame 128 using a threaded stud into threads of the
10 sub-frame 128. In an embodiment, to prevent the threaded
embodiment of the head frame 1004 including a single piece
stud from pulling out of the legs during tightening, the head of
of material 3502 (e.g., bent steel or the like) as the underlying
the threaded stud may be fixed between two or more layers of
support as an alternative to two straight pieces of material
leg material. This construction may trap the threaded stud
1020 as shown in FIG. lOA. head to prevent it from moving away from the end of the leg
In embodiments, there may be different combinations of 15
and may also prevent the threaded stud head from being
movable and fixed sections with one or all of the sections pulled through the end of the leg during the tightening of the
being movable. In an embodiment, the sections may include leg to the sub-frame. In addition, the two or more layers ofleg
the skeleton structure 130, mattress 124, springs 122, and the material may provide for added strength to the sub-frame 128
like, and may individually be small mattress structures of the legs to prevent distortion at the sub-frame 128 and leg inter-
entire adjustable bed facility 102 mattress. 20 face. In an embodiment, the sub-frame 128 may have struc-
In embodiments, the frames may be made of square tubular tural members that may run along the length of the adjustable
steel bars/pipes or any other material capable of providing bed facility 102, run along the width of the adjustable bed
required strength to the frames. In preferred embodiments, facility 102, run diagonally across the adjustable bed facility
each frame may include two substantially parallel side frame 102, or other orientation in relation to the adjustable bed
members counected by one or more counector frame mem- 25 facility 102 that may be required for support or connection to
bers. In order to connect the parallel side frame members, components.
various joining methods such as welding, brazing, riveting, In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 may be used
fastening with nuts, and the like can be used. For example, the as an RF antenna for receiving communication from the
center frame 1002 may include two substantially parallel side remote control 118. In embodiment, the entire skeleton struc-
frame members 1012 connected by two substantially parallel 30 ture 130 may be used as an antenna; a portion of the skeleton
structure 130 may be used as an antenna, or the like.
connector frame members 1014 and 1018. The two connector
In one embodiment, the sub-frame 128 may provide solid
frame members 1014 and 1018 may be located within
connections for any fixed section and skeleton structure 130
approximately a center one-third of the length of the side
by rigidly connecting the skeleton structure 130 directly to the
frame members 1012. Once the frame members have been 35 sub-frame 128. In this marmer, any fixed section and skeleton
connected to each other using anyone of the joining methods structure 130 may be rigidly connected to the sub-frame 128,
as discussed above, the center frame 1002 may take a sub- and through the sub-frame 128, rigidly connected to the floor.
stantially square or rectangular shape. Those skilled in the art In another embodiment, the sub-frame 128 may provide an
would appreciate that the frames may have various other interface for the fixed adjustable bed facility 102 section and
shapes and designs to perform the same functionality and 40 skeleton structure 130 where the fixed section may be able to
without deviating from the scope of the invention. move or slide in relation to the sub-frame 128. By providing
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 114, as part of a non-rigid interface connection between the sub-frame 128
each adjustable bed facility 102 frame/section, may also pro- and the skeleton structure 114, the fixed adjustable bed facil-
vide support and connection members for the components ity 102 section may have a freedom of motion but still may be
that may be used to move the various adjustable bed facility 45 supported by the sub-frame in a solid foundation manner. For
102 sections. There may be skeleton structure 130 members example, as shown in FIG. 11, the center frame 1002 may
that provide connection support to the actuators 120, supports have wheels 11 02 that run in a track 11 04 and may be able to
134, safety brackets 122, vibration motors 118, and the like. move horizontally during the motion of one or more of the
These support and connection members may have any shape movable frames. The track 1104 may be in form of a groove,
or configuration required to provide the support and connec- 50 a "C" channel, or the like. Alternatively, the track 1104 may
tions needed by the various other components. For example, be in the form ofa tube and the wheels 1102 may include a
in addition to the skeleton structure 130 that is used to provide concave surface that meets the track 1104, allowing the
support to the mattress 124 and springs 122 there may be at wheels 110 to run over the track 1104. In an embodiment, the
least one cross member that may provide a connection to the horizontal freedom of motion may provide for a "wall hug-
actuator 120 and safety bracket 138. 55 ger" feature where, as the head frame 1 004 is adjusted up, the
In an embodiment, the skeleton structure 130 and the sub- center frame 1002 may move, along with the head frame
frame 128 may interface with each other; the sub-frame 128 1 004, horizontally backward and towards an adjacent wall to
may provide structural support and a rigid foundation base to maintain a fixed distance between the head frame 1004 and
the skeleton structure 130. In an arrangement of this embodi- the wall, therefore "hugging" the wall. Similarly, when the
ment, only one frame of the skeleton structure 130 may be 60 head frame 1 004 is adjusted down, the center frame 1 002 may
attached with the sub-frame 128. For example, the center move horizontally forward and away from the wall to main-
frame 1002 may be rigidly attached to the sub frame 112 in tain the fixed distance. It may be understood by one skilled in
such a marmer that the center frame 1002 may not move with the art that the moveable interface between the skeleton struc-
respect to the sub frame 128. The sub-frame 128 may provide ture 130 and sub-frames 128 may be any type of interface,
a base to solidly connect the center frame 1002 to provide a 65 such as a rack and a pinion arrangement that may allow
fixed non-moving section. The other moveable frames such as freedom of motion between the sub-frame 128 and skeleton
the head frame 1004 and the foot frame 1008 may be move- structure 114.
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In an embodiment, any adjustable section/frame may have munications module 144, remote control 118, air purification
two connections, a first connection may be provided by a facility 160, zone climate control 162, power outlets 154,
hinge type connection and a second connection may be the power connection 158, power supply 152, modular controls
connection with the actuator 120 and safety bracket 138 that 148, wire harness 142, and the like. In an embodiment, the
may provide the force to rotate the adjustable bed facility 102 controller 150, communications module 144, and power sup-
section up or down. In an embodiment, the hinge type con- ply 152 may be mounted directly to the skeleton structure
nection between the skeleton structure 130 of a first section 114. The controller 150, communications module 144, and
and a second section may provide the point of rotation for the the power supply 152 may be monnted on the center frame
section motion. In an embodiment, the adjustable bed facility 1002. In order to provide a proper mounting space to the
102 may contain more than one section and any or all of the 10 controller 150, the communications module 144, and the
sections may be connected by a hinge type connection. For power supply 152, an additional frame member 1402 may be
example, as shown in FIG. 12, the head frame 1004 may be added. The additional frame member 1402 may be made of a
connected to the center frame 1002 by two hinge joints. Here, tubular construction. The additional frame member 1402 is
the parallel side frame members of the head frame 1004 may designed in such a manner that it can bear the load of the
be pivotally connected to a forward connector frame member 15 components mounted on it. In another embodiment, the con-
1014 of the center frame 1002. The hinged joints between troller 150, the communications module 144, and the power
each of the parallel side frame members of the head frame supply 152 may be mounted on any other frame member of
1004 and the forward connector frame member 1014 may the center frame 1002.
enable the rotational motion between the center frame 1002 FIG. 15 illustrates an accelerometer 1504 for an adjustable
and the head frame 1004. In an arrangement of this embodi- 20 bed 1510 in accordance with an embodiment of the present
ment, the hinge joints may be reinforced by providing a "U" invention. To describe FIG. 15, reference will be made to
shaped end bracket 1202 at the end of the parallel side frame FIGS. lOA, lOB, and 11, although it is nnderstood that the
members. The "U" shaped end bracket 1202 may be of any accelerometer 1504 can be practiced in different embodi-
thickness that increases the strength of the hinge joint to ments. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the
prevent bending. The thickness of the "U" shaped end bracket 25 accelerometer 1504 may have more or less system elements.
1202 may be determined by the amount of force and torque As shown in FIG. 15, the adjustable bed 1510 may include
that may need to be resisted during the movement. Embodi- a controller 1502 and a processor 1508. The controller 1502,
ments of the hinge type connection may include door hinges which may be fixed to the moving frame of the adjustable bed
or the like. 1510, may include the accelerometer 1504. In embodiments,
With the adjustable bed facility 102 sections intercon- 30 the accelerometer 1504 may be wired to an electronic circuit
nected using hinge type connections there may be at least one inside the controller 1502. Further, the accelerometer 1504
actuator 120 that may provide a connection between a fixed may generate one or more signals in response to the change in
adjustable bed facility 102 section and a moveable section. In the speed of movement of the adjustable bed 1510.
an embodiment, the hinge connection between the adjustable In the present embodiment, the signals generated by the
bed facility 1 02 sections may be a pivot point bracket that may 35 accelerometer 1504 may represent the acceleration or decel-
include additional strengthening to resist bending forces. In eration in the movement of the adjustable bed 1510. These
an embodiment, the actuation 1 04 connection may be signals may be transmitted to the processor 1508 for process-
between two of the skeleton structures 114. For example, a ing. The processor 1508 may encrypt the received signals and
first end of the actuator 120 may be connected to the rear may generate instructions in response to the received signals.
connector frame member 1018 of the center frame 1002 and 40 For example, the instructions may correspond to stopping the
a second end of the actuator 120 may be connected to the movement of the adjustable bed 1510. Following this, the
frame that is to be moved (e.g. head frame 1004, leg frame processor 1508 may commnnicate the instructions to the con-
1010, or foot frame 1008). In an arrangement, as shown in troller 1502 of the adjustable bed 1510. In embodiments, a
FIG. 13, a downwardly facing extension frame member/a controller in the controller 1502 may control the adjustable
gusset 1302 may be attached to the head frame 1004 or any 45 parameter(s) of the adjustable bed 1510 in response to the
other frame to be moved. Further, the actuator 120 may be received instructions. For example, the accelerometer 1504
connected to the head frame 1004 to be moved using the may generate one or more signals corresponding to the decel-
downwardly facing extension frame member. eration in the movement of the adjustable bed 1510 caused by
In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, there may be the an added significant weight. The accelerometer 1504 may
gusset 1302 for connection between the actuator 120 and the 50 transmit these signals to the processor 1508. The processor
adjustable bed facility 102 section/frame. In embodiments, 1508 may instruct the controller 1502 to cease the movement
the gusset 13 02 may be an I beam, a T beam, an L beam, a box of the adjustable bed 1510. This may ensure the safety of a
beam, or any other beam design that may provide the strength user. Also, the accelerometer 1504 may detect changes in the
to lift the combined weight of the adjustable bed facility 102 speed of the movement of the adjustable bed 1510, where the
section and the user without bending. In an embodiment, to 55 movement is hindered by an object trapped inside the adjust-
resist bending forces at the connections to the actuator 120 able bed 1510.
and the adjustable bed facility 102 section, the ends of the In embodiments, the processor 1508 may encrypt the
gusset may be reinforced. In embodiments, the reinforcement received signals and may convert to signal values. These
may be an additional bracket added to the ends of the gusset, received signal values may be compared with a pre-deter-
such as a U bracket or other bracket shape, to provide for 60 mined threshold value. These threshold values may be stored
increased material thickness and strength of the gusset ends. in the controller 1502 and may be set/reset by an administra-
The thickness of the additional bracket may be determined by tor. In an exemplary scenario, the processor 1508 may instruct
the amount of force and torque that may need to be resisted the controller 1502 to cease the movement of the adjustable
during the adjustable bed facility 102 section movement. bed 1510 when the received value exceeds the pre-determined
In an embodiment, the controller 150 may coordinate the 65 threshold value.
electronic requirements of the electronic facility 140. In an In another exemplary scenario, the accelerometer 1504
embodiment, the controller 150 may interface with the com- may detect the blocked movement of the adjustable bed 1510
US 8,909,357 B2
63 64
and transmit these signals to the processor 1508. In response less technology may include BLUETOOTH, ultra-wideband
to the transmitted signals, the processor 1508 may instruct the (UWB), wireless USB (WUSB), IEEE 802.11, cellular, or the
controller 1502 to cease the movement of the adjustable bed like.
1510. Also, the controller 1502 may move the adjustable bed The remote control 118 may include one or more motion
1510 slightly. Such movements may ensure the safety of the detection devices, such as accelerometers, magnetic field
user. For example, a user may get on/off the adjustable bed detectors, and the like. The remote control 118 may detect a
1510 or jump on/off the bed or in similar situations, the motion of the remote control 118 through these devices and
movement of the adjustable bed 1510 may be stopped. There- communicate a representation of that motion to the controller
fore, a movable frame of the adjustable bed 1510 may be 150 to enable control of a feature of the adjustable bed. In an
programmed to cease its operation whenever the user makes 10 example, a user may make a lifting motion with the remote
a significant motion. control 118 and the controller 150 may begin to raise an
In one embodiment, the controller 1502, with an acceler- adjustable portion of the bed until the user makes another
ometer 1504, may be mounted on the center frame 1002 of the motion, such as a back and forth motion indicating to the
adjustable bed 1510. As described previously, the horizontal controller 150 to stop raising the adjustable bed portion.
freedom of motion of the adjustable bed 1510 may provide a 15 Various other gestures may be made by with the controller to
"wall hugger" feature to the adjustable bed 1510. In this perform other functions including lifting a leg portion of the
embodiment, as the head frame 1004 is adjusted up, the center bed, lowering a back portion of the bed, and the like. Simi-
frame 1002 may move, along with the head frame 1004; i.e., larly, the gestures could be used to control one or more of the
the center frame 1002 may move horizontally backward and auxiliary devices, to play games on a display controlled by the
towards an adjacent wall to maintain a fixed distance between 20 remote control 118 similarly to a hand held game console
the head frame 1004 and the wall, therefore "hugging" the device, and the like.
wall. In such an arrangement, the accelerometer 1504 may In embodiments, the remote control 118 may include slider
detect the fast and/or slow movement of the adjustable bed controls 1604 that enable the user to control aspects of the
1510 towards or away from the wall. These signals may then adjustable bed facility 102, such as shown in FIG. 16. The
be transmitted to the processor 1508. The processor 1508 may 25 slider control 1604 may function when a user slides their
instruct the controller 1502 to cease the movement of the finger along the slider control 1604 in adjustment of some
adjustable bed 1510. aspect of the adjustable bed facility 102, such as the adjust-
In another embodiment, the horizontal freedom of motion ment of a position motor, the power level of a vibration motor,
of the adjustable bed 1510 may be limited. Such adjustable and the like. In addition, the slider control 1604 may control
beds 1510 may be referred to as "non-wall hugger" types. In 30 an adjustable feature within the modular controls 148 of the
this embodiment, the restricted horizontal movement of the adjustable bed facility 102, such as the volume level of an
center frame 1 002 may limit the backward and forward move- audio device, the volume level of an audio-visual device, the
ment towards or away from an adjacent wall. Therefore, the lighting level of a lamp, a setting of the air purification system
adjustable bed 1510 may not hug the wall. In the present 144, the setting of a height of a motorized set of blinds, the
arrangement, the controller 1502 may be placed along the 35 speaker volume level of a phone, and the like. The slider
head frame 1004 of the adjustable bed. As the head frame control 1604 may be in a plurality of shapes, such as circular
1004 is adjusted up or down, the controller 1502 may move 1604A, linear 1604B, semi-circular, and the like. In embodi-
along with the head frame 1004 moving up and down. In ments, the slider control 1604 may be configured in a two
response, the accelerometer 1504 may transmit the signals dimensional area, where control is provided in multiple
representing the change in the movement of the head frame 40 dimensions, such as on the touchpad of a laptop computer. In
1004 of the adjustable bed to the processor 1508. The proces- embodiments, the slider may be implemented with a plurality
sor 1508 may instruct the controller 1502 to cease the move- of technologies, such as the use of a mechanical slider that
ment of the adjustable bed 1510 in response to the signals moves along a track as the user moves their finger, a capaci-
received from the accelerometer 1504. For instance, the tive coupled touch surface that utilizes changes in capacitance
blocked movement of the adjustable bed 1510 may reduce the 45 resulting from a user touching or pressing against the slider
movement of the adjustable bed 1510. As a result, the proces- control 1604 surface, a piezoelectric coupled touch-screen
sor 1508 may address the controller 1502, and the movement that utilizes changes in electrical potential resulting from a
of the adjustable bed 1510 may be stopped. user touching or pressing against the slider control 1604
In another embodiment, the accelerometer 1504 may be surface, a thin film transistor (TFT) touch-screen LCD dis-
placed in the drive motor of the adjustable bed 1510. In 50 play, and the like. In embodiments, the touch-screen tech-
embodiments, the accelerometer 1504 may be wired to the nologies may have the look and operate in a similar fashion to
PCB of the motor. In such an arrangement, the accelerometer more conventional mechanical slider and wheel configura-
1504 may be coupled to at least one portion of the motor that tions. In addition, the touch-screen technologies may be con-
may not retract against a force. In the present embodiment, figured in a layout depicting the physical layout of some
the accelerometer 1504 may generate and transmit signals 55 mechanical device or control, such as a button, a wheel, a
representing blocked movement of the frame or the motor. slider, or the like, or a pictorial representation of the adjust-
The movement may be blocked by an object or a person. The able bed, with lift motor buttons, vibration motor buttons,
transmitted signals may be compared with the pre-deter- sliders for moving the positions of adjustable portions of the
mined threshold value. Accordingly the movement of the bed, and the like. In embodiments, the use of slider controls
adjustable bed 1510 may be stopped. The transmitted signals 60 1604, implemented anyone of a plurality of technologies,
may vary according to the use of the adjustable bed facility. may provide the user of the adjustable bed facility 102 with
In embodiments, the accelerometer 1504 and the processor greater flexibility and/or greater ease of use in implementing
1508 may transmit the signals wirelessly. The wireless com- a controllable aspect of the adjustable bed facility 102.
munication may be by radio frequency (RF), UHF, HF, infra- In embodiments, the remote control 118 may utilize a
red (IR), BLUETOOTH, or the like. In embodiments, the 65 combination of push button controls 1602 and slider controls
controller 1502 may have an antenna to receive the control 1604. Push buttons may not only perform discrete functions,
signals from the processor 1508. In an embodiment, the wire- such as push to active/deactivate an adjustable bed facility
US 8,909,357 B2
65 66
102 function, but may be used in combination with the slider In embodiments, the display indication on the remote con-
control to select a function of the slider control 1602 or trol118 may be associated with a memory function resident
change some aspect of the slider control 1602. For example, on the remote control 118, or in association with the table data
a push button control 1602 may sequence through a choice of 202, 222 stored in the controller 150, as described herein. In
functions that the slider 1604 controls, such as clicking a embodiments, the implementation of the display indication
button 1602 once for head motor position control, twice for may be associated with both a memory function in the remote
foot motor control, three times for head vibration power level, control 118 and the table 202, 222 in the controller 150. This
and the like. In addition, the selected function may be indi- implementation may utilize two-way communications
cated visually though some display capability of the remote between the remote control and the controller 150, so as to
10 produce a closed-loop command and verification scheme. For
control 118, such as through LEDs, an LCD display, or the
instance, in a scheme where commands are only transmitted
like. In embodiments, the buttons 1602 may be used in com-
to the controller 150, the display on the remote control 118
bination with the slider control 1604 to adjust the sensitivity
may only indicate the commanded intention of the user, and
of the slider control 1604, such as pressing a button 1602 a may under some circumstances, such as when a command is
plurality of times to make control of a position motor through 15 not received by the controller 150, reflect the current state of
the slider control 1604 more or less sensitive, slower or faster, the adjustable bed facility 102. With two-way communica-
and the like. In embodiments, buttons may provide a plurality tions however, the remote control 118 may always reflect the
of other slider control 1604 related features, such as calibra- state of the adjustable bed facility 102 as verified by a return
tion, default position setting, reset control, and the like. In confinnation, or in returned telemetry, from the controller
embodiments, the slider control 1604, when depressed with 20 150. The returned confirmation may reflect the state of the
increased pressure, may perfonn as a button control, where adjustable bed facility 102 as provided in the controller's data
functions as discussed herein are executed with the use of the table 202, 222, such as the current pointer position in the table
slider control 1604 acting as a button control 1602. 202, 222, a memory location stored in the table 202, 222, a
In embodiments, there may be a display indication on the memory location not stored in the table 202, 222, the total
remote control 118 associated with the position of articulated 25 range depicted in the table 202, 222, and the like. As a result,
portions of the adjustable bed facility 102, such as providing the two-way communications scheme may provide a more
a numeric indication, a visual indication, a bar graph indica- reliable system implementation. In embodiments however, a
tion, an illuminated slider indication, and angle indication, or one-way command scheme may provide an effective system
the like. For instance, the position of the articulated head implementation at a reduced cost. In embodiments, a one-
portion of the adjustable bed facility 102 may be adjustable 30 way scheme may utilize a state synchronization event, such as
from a flat position to a position of maximum elevation, say a reset whenever the adjustable bed facility 102 is set back to
up at 70 degrees. The remote control 118 may control the the flat position, to help ensure that the positions indicated by
positioning of the head portion, and the current position may the remote control 118 are periodically synchronized to the

be indicated by, for example, a number from to 100, where data stored in the adjustable bed's controller 150.
represents the flat position, and 100 represents the most 35 In embodiments, groupings of push buttons 1602 may be
elevated position. In this example, the display of the remote provided with adjacent button 1602 suppression. Adjacent
control 118 may indicate the numerical equivalent to the button 1602 suppression may work to prevent multiple but-
current position, where the numerical indication changes as tons 1602 or sliders 1604 from responding to a single touch,
the head portion of the adjustable bed facility 102 moves. In which may occur with closely spaced buttons 1602 or sliders
embodiments, the remote control 118 implementation may 40 1604, such as on a remote control 118. This maybe especially
utilize any of a plurality of numeric schemes, as the number the case for users of an adjustable bed facility 102 that are
may only be a representation of the position of the bed. In experiencing reduced motor control due to illness or
addition, the user may be able to input the numerical equiva- advanced age. Adj acent button 1602 suppression may operate
lent into the remote control 118 device, for example, by by comparing signal strengths from buttons 1602 within a
inputting a number such as 50, and having the head portion of 45 group of buttons 1602 to suppress touch detections from those
the adjustable bed facility 102 rise to a halfWay position. The that have a weaker signal change than the dominant one.
user may be able to store the numerical equivalent of their When enabled, the adjacent button 1602 suppression may
favorite positions, such as a user inputting and storing the allow only one independent button 1602, or slide control 1604
number 25, and being able to recall the stored position in any function, to indicate one touch at a time. In embodiments,
of a plurality of ways associated with the controls of the 50 adjacent button 1602 suppression may be enabled or disabled,
remote control 118, such as depressing a memory recall but- either globally for all buttons 1602, or for a subset of buttons
ton or the like. The user may also use the remote's sliders 1602, leaving other buttons 1602 to be used in combination.
1604 to easily find a position number they desire, even if not In embodiments, the remote control 118 may provide for
saved in memory, select it and then have the frame go to it proximity sensing, such that a user may execute a function by
immediately. This may let the user select, push, and relax 55 bringing their hand close to the remote control 118. For
rather than having to hold a button and pay attention to the instance, the remote control 118 may change power modes as
location of the adjustable bed facility 102 as it moves near the a result of a user moving their hand in close proximity to the
desired position. These examples are meant to be illustrative remote control 118, such as from a low power mode to a fully
of how a numeric or alphanumeric characters may be used to active mode. This proximity effect may be implemented
monitor, store, and recall articulated bed facility 102 posi- 60 through use of a capacitively coupled sensor, utilizing a large
tions, and is not meant to be limiting. One skilled in the art electrode within the remote control 118, where the change in
would recognize the plurality of similar schemes to achieve capacitance due to the close proximity of the user's hand is
similar results. In embodiments these methods may be sufficient to activate the sensor, and thereby executing the
applied to any remote control 118 parameter, including head function. In embodiments, the function activated may be any
motors, foot motors, vibration motors, and the like, as well as 65 function under remote control, as well as functions such as
modular controls 148 such as audio, video, lamps, air purifi- power modes. Power modes may include a plurality of
cation, outlets, and the like. modes, such as a free-run mode, a low power mode, a sleep
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67 68
mode, and the like. The power mode may be activated either Examples include actuating an alert in response to a safety
manually, for instance via some button control 1602, or auto- condition (such as crying child, a child out of bed, stillness of
matically, but such activation indicators as the proximity sen- an elderly patient, or the like), adjusting entertainment con-
sor, a timer function, light source presence, and the like. tent in response to a state (turning off the system or turning
In an embodiment, a motion sensor may be provided, either down volume upon detecting snoring, turning down the lights
associated directly with the adjustable bed facility 102, on the on detecting sleep, selecting preferred content upon detecting
remote control, or in the environment, such that any move- presence of a particular user), adjusting comfort-based fac-
ment in the bed may be detected. For example, if a child is tors based on state detection (adjusting position, vibration,
sleeping and gets up due to hunger, distress or the like and temperature, volume, content or the like based on detection of
leaves the adjustable bed 102, the motion sensor may be 10 user's presence; adjusting some component based on time of
activated and may signal an alarm indicating the child is day), and many others.
awake. In a similar manner, the remote control may provide a In embodiments, the remote control 118 may provide for
sound sensor, such that any noise made in the room may be reduced susceptibility to RF noise, possibly due to the elec-
detected. For example, a child crying, any intruder in the tro-magnetic environment the adjustable bed facility 102 is
room, any abnormal disturbances like earthquake and the 15 exposed to. For example, the remote control may provide RF
like, may activate the sound sensor. The sound sensor may transmissions that operate in a burst mode, where bursts are
transmit the signals and an alarm may ring indicating addi- transmitted utilizing spread-spectrum techniques. Such a
tional noise or disturbance in the room. More generally, any technique may provide transmission over a spread of frequen-
of the types of sensors described herein, such as motion cies, so that external fields may have a reduced effect on the
sensors, sound sensors, weight sensors, chemical sensors, 20 operation of the remote control 118.
smoke detectors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, or In embodiments, the remote control 118 may provide for a
the like may be used to sense a condition of the environment data and power cable interface to provide recharging and data
associated with the adjustable furniture facility or a user of the exchange capabilities with the remote control 118. The data
control facility to sense a condition or determine a state or portion of the cable interface may interface with a computing
event that may, under control of the control facilities for the 25 facility, such as personal computer, mobile computing device,
adjustable furniture facility, be used to trigger actuation of a PDA, mobile phone, another remote control 118, a trouble-
component of the adjustable bed facility or one or more of the shooting facility, and the like. The power portion of the cable
other systems associated with the adjustable bed facility. The interface may provide for the recharging of the remote con-
sensor may be included in a feedback loop whereby the sensor trol's 118 batteries, and in embodiments, may be similar to
continuously updates the control facilities as components or 30 that of a cell phone charging cable. In embodiments, the data
systems are controlled to arrive at an optimal control state for and power interface may utilize a standard data and power
the adjustable furniture facility or for another system associ- interface, such as USB and the like. In embodiments, at least
ated with the adjustable furniture facility. In addition, the one of the remote control 118 and data and power cable
control facilities may obtain information about the state of a interface may have indicator lights, such as for charging sta-
user, a state of the adjustable furniture facility, or the state of 35 tus, charging on, charging complete, low battery, critical bat-
another system associated with the adjustable furniture facil- tery, data transfer status, data transfer on-going, data transfer
ity through a computer or information technology facility, complete, and the like. In embodiments, indicator status may
such as by network communication of state information from also be displayed, such as on the remote control's 118 LCD
the adjustable furniture facility or another system. The state display. In embodiments, the data and power cable may be
information may be used to control or actuate a component of 40 implemented in a plurality of configurations, such as data and
the adjustable furniture facility or of another system associ- power in a single cable, data in one cable and power in a
ated with the adjustable furniture facility. In embodiments, second cable, common cable connectors for data and power,
state information may be integrated at the control facility separate cable connectors for data and power, common
using a data integration facility. In embodiments state infor- remote control 118 interface connectors for data and power,
mation may be obtained at the control facility by pinging or 45 separate connectors for data and power, and the like. In addi-
pulling information from other systems, or by having state tion' the power portion of the data and power cable may be
information pushed to the control facility by the other sys- shielded to avoid interference from coupling into the data
tems. In embodiments one or more services (such as soft- lines of the data portion of the data and power cable interface.
ware-based services), may be used to communicate state In embodiments, the connection between the remote control
information between or among the control facility for the 50 118 mayor may not be associated with a cradle for holding
adjustable bed facility and one or more other systems, such as the remote control 118 during recharging and/or data
in a services-oriented software architecture. Devices may exchange. In embodiments, the remote control's 118 data and
thus communicate their state information to the control facil- power cable may make it more convenient to plug the remote
ity for the adjustable bed facility 102, such as state informa- control 118 into a power outlet for charging by not requiring
tion about on/off condition, operational levels such as volume 55 the remote control 118 to be inserted into a cradle.
control, temperature control, and the like, state information In embodiments, the remote control 118 may provide the
about users, state information about the environment, state data interface to enable internet browsing and program pro-
information about content (such as information about music, cessing capabilities within the remote control 118. The data
video, television, computer gaming or other content), state interface may interface with a computing facility, such as
information about safety, and any other state, condition or 60 personal computer, mobile computing device, PDA, mobile
attribute described throughout this disclosure. State informa- phone, and the like. The data interface may provide access to
tion, whether obtained from sensors or by communication programs such as calculator, word processor, image proces-
among devices, may be used to determine an event or attribute sor, internet browsers, and the like. In embodiments, the
that can in turn trigger actuation of control; thus, the control program status and content accessed may be displayed, such
system for the adjustable furniture facility may actuate a wide 65 as on the remote control's 118 LCD display. The status and
range of actions, on the adjustable furniture facility or on the content of the program may include the network connec-
another system associated with it, based on state information. tion status, internet usage time, available updates over the
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network, and the like. In embodiments, the data interface may when as they occur. The systems may be placed in a mode
be implemented in a plurality of configurations, such as data where errors (either fatal or non-fatal or both) may be com-
cable, wireless communication, and the like. In an embodi- municated to the remote on an on-going or periodic basis. In
ment, the data cable may include the standard data interface, yet other embodiments, the systems may be arranged where
the USB, or the like. In an embodiment, the wireless technol- information relating to the errors may be sent in an on-going
ogy may include BLUETOOTH, ultra-wideband (UWB) , basis and in an on-demand mode. or may be sent in some
wireless USB (WUSB), IEEE 802.11, cellular, or the like. combination of on-demand and as errors occur. For example,
In embodiments, the data interface portion of the cable fatal errors may be reported to the remote control 118 auto-
interface may enable data exchange between the remote con- matically as errors occur, but other non-fatal errors or diag-
trol118 and the computing facility such as for a programming 10 nostic information may be delivered on-demand as they are
the remote control 118, a full reprogramming of the remote requested.
control 118, a partial reprogramming of the remote control In embodiments, fatal errors may include error messages
118, the reprogramming of an individual function in the associated with a motor that stops working, a controller com-
remote control 118, trouble shooting the remote control 118, munication failure, a remote control 118 communication fail-
an exchange of information between the remote control 118 15 ure, a power supply 152 that stops working, critical software
and the computing facility, the downloading of the contents of errors, printed circuit board hardware errors, a blown MOS-
the remote control 118 onto the computing facility, the down- FET, a shorted regulator, and the like. In embodiments, non-
loading of the remote control's 118 programming to the com- fatal errors may include error messages associated with a
puting facility, the transferring of user preferences to or from power supply 152 that may be sourcing too much current,
the computing facility including to another bed's remote con- 20 intermittent two-way RF communication, intermittent hall
trol118, the upgrading of new features to the remote control sensor reception, too much heat near or around the printed
118, download the usage history of the remote control 118, circuit board, general software errors, motors that may be
and the like. In embodiments, the data interface portion of the drawing too much current, motors that may have been used
data interface may provide for a programming interface to excessively, beyond their duty cycle limits, and the like. In
setup or change the functions of the remote control 118, such 25 addition, non-fatal error or diagnostic information reporting
as to reassign a button 2002 function, reassign a slider control may include general usage history information that may be
2004 function, provide new sequences available for slider useful in investigating the cause of problems, such as recall-
control 2004, provide changes to power mode settings, ing the last ten or twenty actions of the adjustable bed facility
change power up default settings, and the like. 102, fatal error information reporting that may include use
An aspect of the present invention relates to error reporting 30 history that may help determine the cause of the fatal error,
through a two-way remote control system associated with an and the like.
adjustable bed. The two-way communications protocols may In embodiments, the adjustable bed facility 102 may pro-
allow for a hand held remote control (as describe herein) to vide a steady stream of measurement data, such as in telem-
communicate commands to an adjustable bed (as described etry stream of engineering diagnostic information, to the
herein) to control the adjustable bed. The bed may commu- 35 remote control 118 or to a central information gathering facil-
nicate back to the hand held remote control information reI at - ity to be used in the diagnosis of errors. In embodiments,
ing to the functioning of the bed. The controller of the bed information associated with error reporting may be stored for
may, for example, communicate errors to the remote control later retrieval, either within the adjustable bed facility or
to facilitate maintenance and repair of the adjustable bed external to the adjustable bed, such as in the remote control
systems. The error reporting may be provided through codes 40 118 or associated with the central information gathering facil-
such that a technician can understand them (i.e. with refer- ity.
ence to a manual) or the reporting may involve presenting FIG. 17A depicts a remote control 1702 (e.g. remote con-
language based error reports for easier diagnosis. In embodi- trol118) to control a frame position 1724 of an adjustable bed
ments' the error reporting is presented on a display screen on 1720 (e.g. as described herein) in accordance with an embodi-
the hand held remote control unit. 45 ment of the present invention. The remote control 1702 is
In embodiments, the remote control 118 may provide for shown to have a front face of a hand-held housing 1704. The
error reporting, such as to identify failures or errors within the hand held housing 1704 of the remote control may include a
adjustable bed facility 102, including within the remote con- touch sensor 1708 (e.g. touch sensors as described in connec-
trol118 itself. Reported Errors may be characterized as fatal tion with user input devices 1602 and 1604), a processor
errors, such as when some function within the adjustable bed 50 1712, a transmitter 1714 and a plurality of buttons and/or
facility 102 no longer working (e.g. a motor failure, controller switches 1718. In embodiments, the touch sensor 1708 may
failure, sensor failure, etc.). Reported errors may be charac- be adapted to facilitate a user in adjusting the frame position
terized as; non-fatal errors, such as some function within the 1724 of the adjustable bed 1720. The touch sensor 1708 may
adjustable bed facility 102 not performing within required be presented in a slider form. In embodiments, the slider may
limits (e.g., diagnostic information used in assessing the 55 be in the form of a dial, a linear strip, a curvilinear strip, a
health of the adjustable bed facility 102, such as how well a curve, or some other similar shape. In embodiments, the
hall sensor is working, how much current the motors are touch sensor 1108 may be a capacitive touch sensor.
drawing, etc.); and the like. Information associated with error The touch sensor 1708 described herein may be con-
reporting may be sent to the remote control 118 upon various structed using a touch screen technology such as a capacitive
events. For example, the systems may be arranged such that 60 touch screen, resistive touch screen, surface acoustic wave
error reporting is done on an on-demand basis. That is, a user touch screen, strain gauge touch screen, optical imaging
may activate an error reporting mode by either interacting touch screen, dispersive signal technology touch screen,
with a user interface on the bed or on the remote. Once placed acoustic pulse recognition touch screen, or other touch sensor
in error reporting mode, errors may be communicated to the technology. The touch sensor 1708 described herein may be
remote. Once the error information is communicated to the 65 presented on the remote control in a variety of shapes and
remote, information relating to the error(s) may be displayed sizes, including, but not limited to: square, rectangular, linear,
on the remote. In other embodiments, errors may be sent curvilinear, circular, round, etc. The shapes may be a pattern
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using a combination of shapes, such as an "X", "Y", "T", etc. One skilled in the art may understand that there may be
The slider form of the touch sensor may facilitate changing a many different adjustable bed 1720 frame positions, which
parameter of the bed or auxiliary equipment when a user the user may change based on his requirements. It should be
slides, taps, touches, or otherwise interacts with the touch noted that the remote control 1702 may be shown to adjust the
sensor. adjustable bed 1720, but those skilled in the art may appreci-
In an exemplary scenario, a user of the adjustable bed 1720 ate that the remote control may control the parameters asso-
may like to change the frame position 1724 of the adjustable ciated with adjustable chairs, adjustable couches, and the like
bed 1720. The user may like to adjust the frame position from to provide comfortable positions when the user may have
time to time to feel comfortable. In this case, the user may use limited mobility. For example, a user with hip replacement
the touch sensor 1708 of the remote control 1702 to adjust the 10 surgery may not be confined to the bed but may require a chair
frame position 1724 to a new frame position. or couch to be adjustable to provide a comfortable sitting
The touch sensor 1708 may be coupled with the processor position while providing control of other devices within the
1712 and the transmitter 1714. The transmitter 1714 may room to limit the number of times the user must get up and
receive inputs from the touch sensor 1708 via the processor adjust the devices. In an embodiment, while recovering from
1710. The inputs may correspond to the interaction of the user 15 a surgery, an injury, an illness, or the like, the user may use
with the touch sensor 1708. In embodiments, the interaction more than one type of rest facility. The user may require
of the user with the touch sensor 1708 may generate instruc- confinement to an adjustable bed for a time and then, with
tions/control signals to control the frame position 1724. health improvement, be able to move to either an adjustable
These instructions/control signals may be processed in the chair or adjustable couch.
processor 1712. The processor 1712 may encrypt these 20 In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 17B, the user may
instructions and provide to the transmitter 1714. The proces- interact with the touch sensor 1708 to adjust the settings of a
sor may also, or instead, address the instructions to be com- massage motor 1728 of the adjustable bed 1720. For example,
municated to the bed such that only a bed associated with the the user may like to adjust the frequency, intensity, or other
address responds to the information. The transmitter 1714 parameter of the massage motor 1728. The user may interact
may communicate these instructions/control signals to a con- 25 with the touch sensor 1708 and may provide the instructions
trol box 1722 of the adjustable bed 1720 and a controller in to increase/decrease the frequency of the massage motor
the control box may then control the adjustable parameter(s) 1728. As described in the description for FIG. 17A, the touch
of the bed in response to the received instructions. sensor 1708 may provide the instructions to the transmitter
In an embodiment, the transmitter 1714 may transmit the 1714 through the processor 1712. The transmitter 1714 may
control signal/instructions wirelessly. The wireless commu- 30 communicate the instructions to the control box 1722 to
nication may be by radio frequency (RF), UFH, HF, infrared change the frequency of the massage motor 1728.
(IR), BLUETOOTH, or the like. In embodiments, the control In an embodiment, there may be at least one massage motor
box 1722 may have an antenna to receive the control signals 1728 that may provide vibration and massage functions to the
from the transmitter 1714. In an embodiment, the wireless adjustable bed 1720. In an embodiment, there may be more
technology may include BLUETOOTH, ultra-wideband 35 than one massage motors in the adjustable bed 1720. In this
(UWB), wireless USB (WUSB), IEEE 802.11, cellular, or the embodiment, using the remote control 1702, the user may be
like. able to control the vibration mode of the multiple massage
On receiving the instructions/control signals, the control motors; the mode may include the vibration setting for a
box 1722 may adjust the frame position 1724 of the adjustable particular bed section, the vibration frequency of at least one
bed 1720. For example, the user may like to tilt the various 40 of the massage motors, stopping the vibration of at least one
sub frames of the adjustable bed 1720 to sleep. The control of the vibration motors, or the like. In an embodiment, the
box of the adjustable bed 1120 may tilt the position of the sub multiple massage motors may be operated independently or
frames of the adjustable bed 1720. In embodiments, the in combination. In an embodiment, the vibration and massage
adjustable bed 1720 may have a skeleton structure that may functions may function as a gentle-wake alarm, being acti-
include more than one section/frame. The sections/frames 45 vated in response to an alarm clock signal, which may be
may be fixed or may be adjustable/movable. Further, the generated by the electronic facility 140 (e.g., by an alarm
sections/frames may be assembled together in such a way that clock running in the controller 150 or the like) or may be
the sections/frames may be able to move relative to each other received as a signal from an external source (e.g., from the
to provide the various bed positions required by the user. To remote control 118 or the like), and so on.
achieve this, the sections/frames may be connected together 50 FIG. 17C depicts a remote control 1702 to control a plu-
using hinges or like devices that allow a freedom of motion rality of parameters 1730 of an adjustable bed 1720 in accor-
between them. Theses hinges/connections may be controlled dance with an embodiment of the present invention. The
by a Progrannnable Logic Circuit installed in the control box plurality of parameters 1730 may include the parameters
1722. associated with the actuators, springs, mattresses, a sub-
In embodiments, the controller 150 may include a micro- 55 frame, a skeleton structure, vibration motors, supports, safety
computer, a microprocessor, volatile memory, non-volatile brackets, or any other parameter associated with any other
memory, 10 connection to components, or the like. The con- facility of the adjustable bed 1720. For example, the user may
troller 150 may provide an interface to permit software appli- wish to control the frame position as well as the air pressure/
cation updates to the controller 150 memory; the controller fimmess of the mattress of the adjustable bed 1720. Firstly,
150 memory may be over written. In other embodiments, the 60 the user may set the touch sensor 1708 of the remote control
bed controller may be another form of controller, such as a set 1702 for the mattress parameters by using a button of the
of specifically designed circuits designed to operate the plurality of buttons 1718. Once the touch sensor has been set
adjustable bed 1720. for the mattress parameters, the user may interact with the
In another example, the control box 1722 may adjust the touch sensor 1708 to generate the control signals to adjust the
frame position 1724 in a configuration where only the head 65 mattress parameters. After that, the user may switch the mode
section may be adjusted to provide the user an elevated upper of the touch sensor 1708 of the remote control 1702 for the
body position. frame control parameters. Accordingly, the user may interact
US 8,909,357 B2
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with the touch sensor 1708 to generate the control signals to provide the rate of rise/drop in the temperature of the sur-
adjust the frame position 1724. roundings. For example, in case of an emergency such as a
FIG. 18A depicts a remote control 1802 (e.g. remote con- fire, the increased room temperature may be detected
trol118) for controlling an adjustable bed 1820 and an audio enabling the user to take the necessary security measures.
visual system 1824 in accordance with an embodiment of the Also, in case of extremely low room temperatures, for
present invention. To describe FIG. 18A, reference will be example, during winters, the sensor may detect the decrease
made to FIG. 17, although it is understood that the remote in the temperature of the surroundings. On such an indication,
control 1802 can be practiced in different embodiments. the user may switch on a heating device for maintaining the
Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the remote normal room temperature. The transmitter 1814 may transmit
control 1802 may have more or less system elements.
10 the control signals pertaining to the second touch sensor 1810
As shown, a hand held housing 1804 of the remote control
to control the zoned climate control system 164 or a heating
1802 may have a first touch sensor 1808, a second touch
device. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the
sensor 1810, a processor 1812, and a transmitter 1814. The
first touch sensor 1808 and the second touch sensor 1810 may temperature sensing may have more or less system elements.
be presented in a slider form. In embodiments, the slider may 15
In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 18H, the first touch
be in the form of a dial, a linear strip, a curvilinear strip, a sensor 1808 may provide the control signals to control a first
curve, or some other similar shape. In embodiments, the first parameter 1844 of the adjustable bed 1820. In addition, the
touch sensor 1808 and the second touch sensor 1810 may be second touch sensor 1810 may provide the control signals to
a capacitive touch sensor. control a second parameter 1824 of the adjustable bed 1820.
In an exemplary scenario, the user may like to sleep and 20 The first parameter 1844 and the second parameter 1848 is
want to do so while watching TV. He may like to change the shown to be massage motor and the frame position respec-
frame position and may like to switch-off an audio visual tively, however those skilled in the art would appreciate that
system 1824 present in the room. The user may use the first the first and the second parameter may be associated with the
touch sensor 1808 and may provide the input to the processor actuators, springs, mattresses, a sub-frame, a skeleton struc-
1812 by sliding the first touch sensor 1808 for changing a 25 ture, vibration motors, supports, safety brackets, or any other
parameter of the plurality of parameters 1830. The plurality facility of the adjustable bed 1820.
of parameters 1830 may include the parameters associated FIG. 19 depicts a remote control 1902 (e.g. remote control
with the actuators, springs, mattresses, a sub-frame, a skel- 118) for controlling the parameters of an adjustable bed 1924
eton structure, vibration motors, supports, safety brackets, or in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
any other parameter associated with any other facility of the 30 To describe FIG. 19, reference will be made to FIG. 17 and
adjustable bed 1820.
FIG. 18, although it is understood that the remote control
As explained in the description for FIG. 17A, the transmit-
1902 can be practiced in different embodiments. Those
ter 1814 may communicate the control signals to the control
skilled in the art would appreciate that the remote control
box 1822 of the adjustable bed 1820. The control box 1822
may adjust the parameter associated with the adjustable bed 35 1902 may have more or less system elements.
1820. Similarly, the user may interact with the second touch As shown, a hand held housing 1904 of the remote control
sensor 1810 to control the audio-visual system 1824 present 1902 may have a touch screen 1908, a processor 1910, and a
in the room. The transmitter 1814 of the remote control 1802 transmitter 1912. The touch screen 1908 may enable the
may communicate the control signals pertaining to the second viewing of a plurality of images. Each of the plurality of
touch sensor 1810 to the audio visual system. In the example, 40 images may be a representative of a different function asso-
the user may provide the input by using the second touch ciated with an adjustable bed 1924. As shown in the FIG. 19,
sensor 1810 to lower the volume of the audio-visual system the image 1928 may represent the function corresponding to
1824. In an alternate embodiment, the control signals for the the frame position. Similarly, the image 1930 may represent
audio-visual system 1822, or other secondary system as the function correspond to the massage motor. The touch
described herein, may be sent to the on bed control box 1822 45 screen 1908 may be shown to have the image 1928 and image
and the control box 1822 may then send the control signals to 1930; however those skilled in the art may appreciate that the
the audio-visual system 1832, or other secondary system. touch screen 1908 may have multiple images. Each image
In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 18B, the second touch may be representative of a different function associated with
sensor may 1810 may provide the input to control an audio the adjustable bed 1924. Each of the plurality of images may
system 1830 present in the room. For example, in addition to 50 be coded to generate a control signal in response to an inter-
changing a parameter associated with the adjustable bed action with the image. For example, a user may touch the
1820, the user may like to change the volume or chamlel of the image 1928 to adjust the frame position of the adjustable bed
audio system 1832 present in the room. The transmitter 1814 1924. On touching the image 1928, a control signal may be
may also transmit the control signals pertaining to the second generated to control the frame position. The control signals
touch sensor 1810 to control the audio system 1832. 55 may be processed with in a processor 1910 and then sent to
Similarly, the second touch sensor may 1810 may provide the control box 1918 of the adjustable bed 1924 by the trans-
the input to control a computer facility 1834, HVAC system mitter of the remote control 1902.
1838, a kitchen appliance 1840, a vehicle system (e.g. a In an embodiment, an array of vibratory motors may be
remote starter for the vehicle) 1842, an alarm system 1844, or mounted on the bed frame, in the mattress or otherwise
other secondary or auxiliary system as shown in FIG. 18C, 60 located to impart massage action onto the mattress. The array
FIG. 18D, FIG. 18E, FIG. 18F, FIG. 18G respectively. of vibratory motors may include two or more, and maybe
In embodiments, second touch sensor 1810 may provide an many more, vibratory motors. The array may be controlled as
interface for temperature sensing, such that the room tem- a singular unit, as individual units, as groups and/or sub
perature may be displayed on the remote control at a user's groups of units or otherwise. In an embodiment, the remote
request. Also, the user may be intimated of, for example, the 65 control may display a graphical image of the array to allow a
current room temperature, increase/decrease in the room tem- user to set parameters associated with the array. The user may
perature, and the like. The second touch sensor 1810 may be able to interact with the remote (e.g. through an interactive
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image on the remote) to control the array as a singular unit, as may include a touch screen 2010, a plurality of buttons 2012.
individual units, as groups and/or sub groups of units or The user interface 2008 may be adapted to facilitate the user
otherwise. in adjusting a parameter 2024 of an adjustable bed 2020. The
The control box 1918 may adjust the parameters associated parameter 2024 may be one of the pluralities of parameters
with the image 1928 based on the received control signals. In 1730. The instructions corresponding to the parameter 2024
the example, the parameters corresponding to the frame posi- may be provided by the user through the user interface 2010.
tion may be adjusted. Similarly, the image 1930 may repre- These instructions may be sent to the processor 2014. On
sent a function of the adjustable bed 1924. For example, it processing these instructions, control signals may be gener-
may represent the settings for the massage motor. The user ated by a transceiver 2018. In embodiments, the transceiver
may touch the image 1930 by using his finger tip 1932. The
10 2018 may operate a BLUETOOTH protocol. In embodi-
control signals corresponding to the image 1930 may be
ments, the transceiver may be an RF transceiver.
generated and transmitted to the control box 1918 of the
These signals may be transmitted to a control box 2022 of
adjustable bed 1924. In the example, the parameters associ-
ated with the massage motor may be adjusted. the adjustable bed 2020. Once the parameter 2024 has been
In embodiments, at least one of the images may be adapted 15 adjusted, the value of the adjusted parameter 2024 may be
to produce an additional control signal when touched for a sent to the transceiver 2018 of the remote control 2002. In
predetermined period of time. For example, the image 1928, embodiments, the adjusted parameter 1924 may be transmit-
when touched for a predefined time, say five seconds, may ted to the user interface 2010.
produce an additional control signal. This additional control In embodiments, the parameter may be a frame position
signal may change a parameter associated with the adjustable 20 2028. As shown in FIG. 20B, the frame position 2028 may be
bed 1924. In embodiments, the predefined period of time may adjusted by using the user interface 2010. For example, the
be set by the user of the remote control 1902. In embodiments, user may like to tilt the frame of the adjustable bed 2020 to
the predefined period of time may be set by the manufacturer feel comfortable. The angle through which its frame can be
of the remote control 1902. tilted may be present on the user interface 2010. The user may
In embodiments, the touch screen 1904 may include a 25 select the angle to tilt the frame of the adjustable bed 2024 by
facility to display an auxiliary image 1934. The auxiliary using the touch screen 2008. The new frame position 2028
image 1934 may correspond to an auxiliary system 1938. may be sent to the transceiver 2018. In the example, the frame
Examples of the auxiliary system 1938 may include but may of the adjustable bed 2020 may be tilted to 150 degrees from
not be limited to an audio system, computer system, security 100 degrees. Once the frame position 2028 may be adjusted,
system, home security system, HVAC system, kitchen appli- 30 the data indicative of the adjusted frame position 2028 may be
ance, alann system, vehicle system (e.g. remote starter for the communicated to the transceiver 2018 by the control box
vehicle), medical device unit etc. When a user touches the 2022. In the example, a data indicating that the frame position
auxiliary image 1934, control signal may be generated to 2028 is adjusted to 150 degrees may be transmitted to the
control the parameters of the respective auxiliary system. For transceiver 2018. In embodiments, the adjusted frame posi-
example, the auxiliary image 1934 may be the image of the 35 tion 2028 may be provided to the user interface 2010 by the
audio-visual system. The user may touch the image corre- transceiver 2018.
sponding to the audio-visual system on the touch screen 1908 In embodiments, the parameter may be associated with a
to control the volume of the audio-visual system. The control massage motor 2030. As shown in FIG. 20C, the settings of
signals may be generated and transmitted by the transmitter the massage motor 2030 may be adjusted by using the user
1912 to the audio visual system. 40 interface 2008. The new massage motor settings may be sent
In one exemplary scenario, the auxiliary image 1934 may to the transceiver 2018. For example, the user may like to
be the image of the blood pressure system. The user may increase the frequency of the massage. The user may adjust
touch the images corresponding to the blood pressure system the speed of the massage by the user interface 2010. The
on the touch screen 1908 to measure the blood pressure. The transceiver 2018 may collect the instructions from the user
signals may be generated and transmitted by the transmitter 45 interface 2010 and may communicate to the control box 2022.
1912 to the blood pressure meter. The blood pressure may be The control box 2022 may increase the frequency of the
activated to measure the blood pressure and heart rate of the massage motor 2030. The new frequency of the massage
user. The user may also activate and monitor its health con- motor 2030 may be provided to the transceiver 2018. In
ditions using a plurality of medical devices, for example, embodiments, the new frequency of the massage motor 2030
Electrocardiogram, glucose meter, pulse oximeter, and the 50 may be provided to the user interface 2008 by the transceiver
like. 2018.
The images may act as portals to other pages where further In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 20D, the control signals
related control parameters are offered. For example, the user may be transmitted by a transmitter 2028 to adjust a param-
may be presented with an icon representing an adjustable bed. eter. For example, the user may provide the instructions to
Once the user interacts with the icon on the touch screen, or 55 control a parameter 2024 using the user interface 2008. The
through a soft or hard style button, a new page of infonnation user interface 2008 may provide the instructions to a trans-
may be presented to the user for further selection/interaction. mitter 2032 of the remote control 2002. The transmitter 2032
FIG. 20A depicts a remote control 2002 (e.g. remote con- may provide the instructions to the control box 2022. The
trol118) for controlling the parameters of an adjustable bed control box 2022 may adjust the parameter 2024 and provide
2024 in accordance with an embodiment of the present inven- 60 the adjusted parameter 2024 to the receiver 2034 of the
tion. To describe FIG. 20, reference will be made to FIG. 17, adjustable bed 2020. In embodiments, the transmitter 2032
FIG. 18, and FIG. 19 although it is understood that the remote and the receiver 2034 may operate at different frequencies.
control 2002 can be practiced in different embodiments. For example, the transmitter 2032 may operate at 2.4 giga-
Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the remote hertz and the receiver 2034 may operate at 433.92 gigahertz.
control 2002 may have more or less system elements. 65 In embodiments, the use of different frequencies between
As shown, a hand held housing 2004 of the remote control transmitting and receiving may be used to avoid signal inter-
2002 may have a user interface 2008. The user interface 2008 ference.
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Certain embodiments have been depicted as having a trans- In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 20J, graphical informa-
ceiver and others as having a transmitter and receiver pair. It tion 2048 of the adjusted parameter 2024 may be provided by
should be understood that in certain embodiments, the trans- the adjustable bed 2020 to the transceiver 2018. The graphical
ceiver may represent multiple components and/or systems information 2048 may indicate the new setting of the adjust-
and in other embodiments it represents a consolidated set of 5 able bed 2020. For example, the graphical information 2048
components and/or systems. If should further be understood of the frame position 2028 may be provided to the transceiver
that in certain embodiments, the transmitter and receiver pairs 2018. For example, if the upper portion of the bed frame is
may represent separate components and/or systems and in readjusted to forty five degrees from horizontal, a graphical
other embodiments they represent a consolidated set of com- image depicting the angle may be presented on the screen
2008. Accordingly, the transceiver 2018 may provide the
ponents and/or systems. 10
graphical information 2048 to the user interface 2010.
In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 20E, the control signals
In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 20K, graphical repre-
may be transmitted by the transceiver 2018 to adjust the frame
sentation 2050 of the adjustable bed parameter may be pro-
position 2028. In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 20E, the vided by the adjustable bed 2020 to the transceiver 2018.
control signals may be transmitted by the transmitter 2032 to 15
Accordingly, the graphical representation 2050 may be
adjust the frame position 2028. In addition, the data indicative provided to the user interface 2010. In embodiments, the
of a receipt of the adjusted frame position 2028 from the graphical representation 2050 of the adjustable bed parameter
adjustable bed 2024 may be received by the receiver 2034. In may indicate a current status of the parameter as indicated by
the example, the data indicating that the frame has been tilted the adjustable bed 2020. For example, a graphical represen-
to 150 degrees may be provided to the receiver 2034. In 20 tation of the adjusted frame position 2028 may be provided to
embodiment, the adjusted parameter pertaining to the frame the user interface 2010. In embodiments, a graphical repre-
position 2028 may be provided to the receiver 2034. sentation of the adjusted frame position 2028 may be pro-
In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 20F, the control signals vided to the receiver 2034 of the remote control 2002.
may be transmitted by the transceiver 2018 to adjust the In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 20L, in addition to the
settings of the massage motor 2030. In addition, the data 25 graphical representation 2050 of the adjustable bed param-
indicative of a receipt of the adjusted setting of the massage eter, graphical representation 2052 of the parameter associ-
motor 2030 from the adjustable bed 2024 may be received by ated with the auxiliary system 2054 may be provided to the
the receiver 2034. user interface 2010. For example, a graphical representation
In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 20G, an error data 2032 of the adjusted parameters associated with the auxiliary sys-
may be transmitted to the transceiver 2032. For example, the 30 tern 2054 may be provided to the user interface 2010.
user may have liked to tilt the frame to 70 degrees from 45 Examples of the auxiliary system 2054 may include but are
degrees. However, the control box 2022 may have adjusted it not limited to an audio system, a computer system, an HVAC
to 148 degrees due to frame position limitation. In this sce- system, a kitchen appliance, an alarm system, and a vehicle
nario, an error data 2038 showing that the frame may have system. In embodiments, a graphical representation of the
been adjusted to 65 degrees instead of 70 degrees may be 35 adjusted parameters of the auxiliary system 2054 may be
communicated to the transceiver 2018. In embodiments, this provided to the receiver 2034 of the remote control 2002.
error data 2038 may be transmitted to the user interface 2008. In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 21A, the user interface
In embodiments, the error data 2038 may indicate the failure may be a touch screen user interface 2102. The user may
of the control box 2022 to adjust the parameters. interact with the touch screen user interface 2102. The
In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 20H, in addition to the 40 instructions from the user may be provided to the control box
control signs to adjust a parameter 2024, the transceiver 2018 2022 by the transceiver 2018. The control box 2022 may
may send the diagnostic signals to the control box 2022. The communicate the graphical information 2048 of the adjusted
diagnostic signals may cause the adjustable bed to switch to a parameters associated with the adjustable bed 2020 to the
diagnostic mode. A diagnostic data 2034 may also be trans- transceiver 2018. In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 21B, the
mitted to the transceiver 2018. 45 control box 2022 may communicate the graphical informa-
In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 201, a new position tion 2048 of the adjusted parameter associated with the
indication 2044 of the adjustable bed 2024 may be transmit- adjustable bed 2020 to the receiver 2034. The transceiver
ted to the transceiver 2018. Accordingly, the transceiver 2018 2018 may provide the graphical information 2048 to the touch
may provide the new position indication 2044 to the user screen user interface 2102. Now, the user may interact with
interface 2010. The new position indication 2040 may be 50 the graphical information 2048 on the touch screen user inter-
indicated digitally. For example, the 150 degree angle at face 2102 to adjust the parameter 2024. For example, the
which the frame may be tilted is communicated to the trans- graphical information corresponding to the frame position
ceiver 2018 by the control box 2022. In embodiments, the 2028 may be provided to the touch screen user interface 2102.
frame position 2028 may be calibrated. For example, frame The user may interact with the graphical information corre-
position 2028 from angle 90 degree to 120 degree may be 55 sponding to the frame position 2028 and may increase the
referred as first frame position. Similarly, the frame position angles between the frames.
2028 from angle 120 degree to 150 degree may be referred as FIG. 22 depicts a flow chart 2200 for changing an adjust-
second frame position. This first frame position or the second able parameter associated with an adjustable bed 1720 in
frame position may be provided to the transceiver 2018. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. To
embodiments, the data indicating that the parameter has been 60 describe FIG. 22, reference will be made to FIG. 17, FIG. 18,
adjusted may be provided to the transceiver 2018. The new FIG. 19, FIG. 20, and FIG. 21, although it may be understood
position indication 2044 may be displayed on the user inter- that the method for changing an adjustable parameter can be
face 2010. In embodiments, a number corresponding to the practiced in different embodiments. Those skilled in the art
frame position 2028 may be displayed. Although, the new would appreciate that the flow chart 2200 may have more or
position indication 2044 is explained by the frame position 65 less number of steps.
2028, the new position indication may represent a new setting At step 2202, a control signal to change an adjustable
of the massage motor 2030 or any other parameter. parameter of the adjustable bed 1720 may be sent to the
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adjustable bed 1720 by the remote control 1702. As explained in different embodiments. Those skilled in the art would
in the descriptions for FIG. 17, FIG. 18, FIG. 19, FIG. 20, and appreciate that the flow chart 2400 may have more or less
FIG. 21, the control signal may be generated by the user number of steps.
interaction with the touch sensor 1708, a user interface 2010, At step 2402, a control signal to change an adjustable
a touch screen user interface 2102, or any other similar facil- 5 parameter of the adjustable bed 1720 may be sent at a first
ity. The adjustable parameter may include the parameter asso- frequency by the remote control 1702. For example, a control
ciated with the actuators, springs, mattresses, a sub-frame, a signal for changing the angle of the frame of the adjustable
skeleton structure, vibration motors, supports, safety brack- bed 1720 from 120 degrees to 150 degrees may be sent at
ets, or any other parameter associated with any other facility 18.83 gigahertz frequency. At step 2404, the information
of the adjustable bed 1720. In embodiments, the control sig- 10 indicating that the parameter associated with the adjustable
nal may be provided to the control box 1722 by the transmitter bed 1720 may be received at a second frequency by the
1714, transceiver 2018, or any other similar facility of the remote control 1702 from the adjustable bed 1720. For
remote control 1702. For example, a control signal may be example, the information that the frame of the adjustable bed
sent indicating change in the angle of the frame of the adjust- 1720 has been tilted to 150 degrees may be received at 4.46
able bed 1720 from 120 degrees to 150 degrees. At step 2204, 15 gigahertz frequency. In embodiments, the first and the second
the adjustable bed 1720 may change the adjustable parameter frequency may be different. At step 2408, a graphical repre-
in accordance with the control signal. For example, the frame sentation of the adjusted parameter may be displayed on the
of the adjustable bed 1720 may be adjusted to 150 degrees. At remote control 1702. For example, as shown in FIG. 20L, the
step 2208, the adjustable bed 1720 may send data that may various angles associated with the frame and the current angle
indicate a new setting of the changed adjustable parameter. 20 of the frame of the adjustable bed 1720 may be displayed on
For example, the information that the frame of the adjustable the touch screen 2008 of the user interface 2010.
bed 1720 has been tilted to 150 degrees may be relayed. At FIG. 25 depicts a flow chart 2500 for adjusting an adjust-
step 2210, a number indicative of the data may be displayed able parameter associated with an adjustable bed 1720 in
on the remote control 1702. For example, the frame angle accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. To
(150 degrees) may be displayed on the user interface 2010, a 25 describe FIG. 25, reference will be made to FIG. 17, FIG. 18,
touch screen user interface 2102, or any other facility of the FIG. 19, FIG. 20, FIG. 21, FIG. 22, FIG. 23, and FIG. 24,
remote control 1702. although it is understood that the method for adjusting an
FIG. 23 depicts a flow chart 2300 for displaying a graphical adjustable parameter associated with an adjustable bed 1720
representation of the adjustable parameter associated with an can be practiced in different embodiments. Those skilled in
adjustable bed 1720 in accordance with an embodiment of the 30 the art would appreciate that the flow chart 2500 may have
present invention. To describe FIG. 23, reference will be more or less steps.
made to FIG. 17, FIG. 18, FIG. 19, FIG. 20, FIG. 21, and FIG. At step 2502, an interactive graphical representation illus-
22 although it is understood that the method for displaying a trative of an adjustable parameter of an adjustable bed 1720
graphical representation of the adjustable parameter associ- may be presented on the remote control 2002. For example, a
ated with an adjustable bed 1720 can be practiced in different 35 graphical icon, illustrating the various angles by which a
embodiments. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that frame of an adjustable bed 1720 may be tilted, may be pre-
the flow chart 2300 may have more or less number of steps. sented on the touch screen user interface 2102. The user may
At step 2302, a control signal to change an adjustable manipulate the graphical representation to adjust the param-
parameter of the adjustable bed 1720 may be sent through the eter of the adjustable bed 2024 at step 2504. For example, the
remote control 1702. As the descriptions for FIG. 17, FIG. 18, 40 user may click and select an angle of 150 degrees on the
FIG. 19, FIG. 20, and FIG. 21 indicate, the control signal may interactive graphical representation of the frame position
be generated by the user interaction with the touch sensor present on the touch screen user interface 2102. A control
1708, a user interface 2010, a touch screen user interface signal may be sent at step 2508 by the remote control 1702 to
2102, or any other similar facility. For example, a control adjust the adjustable parameter based on the user manipula-
signal for changing the 120 degree angle of the frame of the 45 tion at step 2504. For example, the control signals having the
adjustable bed 1720 to a 150 degree angle may be sent. At step instructions to change the frame angle to 150 degree may be
2304, the information indicating that the parameter associ- sent to the adjustable bed 1720 by the remote control 1702. At
ated with the adjustable bed 1720 may be received by the step 2510, the adjustable parameter of the adjustable bed
remote control 1702 from the adjustable bed 1720. For 1720 may be changed. For example, the frame angle of the
example, the information that the frame of the adjustable bed 50 adjustable bed 1720 may be changed to 150 degrees.
1720 has been tilted to 150 degrees may be received by the FIG. 25 depicts a flow chart 2500 for adjusting an adjust-
remote control 1702. At step 2308, a graphical representation able parameter associated with an adjustable bed 1720 in
of the adjusted parameter may be displayed on the remote accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. To
control 1702. For example, as shown in FIG. 20L, the various describe FIG. 25, reference will be made to FIG. 16, FIG. 17,
angles associated with the frame and the current angle of the 55 FIG. 18, FIG. 19, FIG. 20, FIG. 21, FIG. 22, FIG. 23, and FIG.
frame of the adjustable bed 1720 may be displayed on the 24, although it is understood that the method for adjusting an
touch screen 2008 of the user interface 2010. In embodi- adjustable parameter associated with an adjustable bed 1720
ments, the user may interact with the graphical representation can be practiced in different embodiments. Those skilled in
to change an adjustable parameter of the adjustable bed 1720. the art would appreciate that the flow chart 2500 may have
FIG. 24 depicts a flow chart 2400 for displaying a graphical 60 more or less steps.
representation of the adjustable parameter associated with an At step 2602, an interactive graphical representation illus-
adjustable bed 1720 in accordance with an embodiment of the trative of an adjustable parameter of an adjustable bed 1720
present invention. To describe FIG. 24, reference will be and an adjustable parameter of the auxiliary system 2052 may
made to FIG. 17, FIG. 18, FIG. 19, FIG. 20, FIG. 21, FIG. 22, be presented on the remote control 1702. For example, a
and FIG. 23, although it is understood that the method for 65 graphical icon, illustrating the various angles by which a
displaying a graphical representation of the adjustable param- frame of an adjustable bed 1720 may be tilted, may be pre-
eter associated with an adjustable bed 1720 can be practiced sented on the touch screen user interface 2102. In addition, a
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graphical representation of the various values of the volume time. The predefined time may be ten seconds, one minute, an
of a TV may be presented on the touch screen user interface hour or the like. Similarly, vibration of the remote control
2102. The user may manipulate the graphical representation 2002 may be utilized to indicate user preferences associated
to adjust the parameter of the adjustable bed 2024 at step with a second system. The second system is any of the devices
2604. For example, the user may click and select a ISO-degree or systems associated with the adjustable bed 2020, such as a
angle on the interactive graphical representation of the frame lighting system, an air purification system, an audio system, a
position present on the touch screen user interface 2102. In CD player, an MP3 player, a DVD player, a lamp, an alarm
addition, the user may select a TV volume value from the clock, a music player, a telephone, a video system, or an
graphical representation of the auxiliary system 2052 at step entertainment technology system, computer system, infor-
2608. At step 2610, a control signal may be sent to the aux- 10 mation technology system, networking system, and the like.
iliary system 2052 and to the adjustable bed 1720. The control In some embodiments, feedback from an accelerometer
signal may be sent by the remote control 1702 to adjust the 1504 wired to the adjustable bed 1510 may be sent back to the
adjustable parameter based on the user manipulation at step processor 1508 for processing and relay to the piezoelectric
2604 and at step 2608. For example, the control signals hav- circuit 2702. For example, the accelerometer 1504 may gen-
ing the instructions to change the frame angle to 150 degrees 15 erate one or more signals corresponding to the deceleration in
may be sent to the adjustable bed 1720 by the remote control the movement of the adjustable bed 1510 caused by an added
1702. In addition, the control signal to lower the volume of the significant weight. The accelerometer 1504 may transmit
TV may be sent to the TV. At step 2612, the adjustable these signals to the processor 1508. The processor 1508 may
parameter of the adjustable bed 1720 and the auxiliary system instruct the controller 2002 to cease the movement of the
2052 may be changed. For example, the frame angle of the 20 adjustable bed 1510 and generate a vibration of the remote
adjustable bed 1720 may be changed to 150 degrees. control 2002 via the piezoelectric circuit 2702.
FIG. 27 depicts a remote control 2002, including a piezo- Referring to FIG. 28, both the remote control 118 and the
electric circuit 2702 of an adjustable bed 2020, in accordance communications module 144 may include a WIFI communi-
with various embodiments of the present invention. The cation module 2802, a BLUETOOTH communication mod-
remote control may include a handheld housing 2004, a touch 25 ule 2804, an ANT communication module 2814, or the like.
screen user interface 2102, a processor 2014, a wireless trans- The WIFI communication modules 2802 may be capable of
ceiver 2018, and a piezoelectric circuit 2702. The touch pairing to and wirelessly communicating with each other, as
screen user interface 2102 may be provided with a plurality of may the BLUETOOTH communication modules 2804 with
buttons 2012 and graphical information 2048. The plurality each other and the ANT communication modules 2814 with
of buttons 2012 may be utilized to adjust various operational 30 each other.
settings and user preferences such as adjustment of bed angle, The communications module 144 may include a local area
adjustment in massage motor speed, and the like. The graphi- network module 2808 capable of operatively coupling to a
cal information 2048 may indicate the new operational set- local area network, providing network communications
tings of the adjustable bed 2020. For example, if an upper between the adjustable bed facility 102 and a remote network
portion of the bed frame is adjusted to forty-five degrees from 35 2812. The local area network module 2808 may function as a
a horizontal plane, a graphical image depicting the angle may router, gateway, proxy, or the like, providing network com-
be presented on the remote control 2002. munications between the remote control 118 and the remote
The touch screen user interface 2102 may be adapted to network 2812. Embodiments of these network communica-
facilitate the user in adjusting a parameter 2024 of the adjust- tions may include wireless communications (e.g., WIFI,
able bed 2020. The instructions corresponding to the param- 40 BLUETOOTH, ANT, etc.) between the remote control 118
eter 2024 may be provided by the user through the user and the communications module 144 and network communi-
interface 2102. These instructions may be sent to the proces- cations (of any kind) between the communications module
sor 2014. On processing these instructions, control signals 144 and the remote network 2812.
may be generated by a transceiver 2018. In embodiments, the Embodiments of the remote control 118 may include a
transceiver 2018 may communicate via a BLUETOOTH pro- 45 smart phone or the like and thus may additionally include a
toco!. In embodiments, the transceiver may be an RF trans- cellular communications module 2810 (e.g., for CDMA,
celver. GSM, or other such communications). The cellular commu-
The piezoelectric circuit 2702 may be coupled to the nications module 2810 may provide a path for network com-
remote control 2002 touch-screen. The piezoelectric circuit munications that perhaps does not involve the adjustable bed
2702 may be utilized to enable the remote control 2002 to 50 facility 102 (e.g., communication directly between the
vibrate. Changes in electrical potential resulting from a user remote control 118 and a cellular network, etc.). Conversely,
touching or pressing against the touch screen may cause the embodiments of the remote control 118 may communicate
remote control to vibrate. Vibration may be used to indicate with the remote network 2812 via only wireless communica-
that certain operational settings and user preferences have tions to/from the communications module 144, without uti-
been accomplished/achieved. In an exemplary case, vibration 55 lizing the cellular communications module 2810. For
of the remote control 2002 may be utilized to indicate that the example, a user of the remote control 118 could access
required massage motor speed has been achieved by the resources on the remote network 2812 (e.g., websites, etc.)
adjustable bed 2020. In another exemplary case, vibration of even in environments (e.g., hospitals, etc.) where cellular
the remote control 2002 may be utilized to indicate that the communications are prohibited, unavailable, impractical, or
required frame position has been achieved by the adjustable 60 the like.
bed 2020. In yet another exemplary case, vibration of the Referring to FIG. 29, a user initiates a pairing function of
remote control 2002 may be utilized to indicate that the con- the remote control 118 (step 2902), for example by pressing a
troller of the adjustable bed 2020 has reached a diagnostic button, touching an icon, entering a password or other code
mode. In still another embodiment, vibration of the remote into the remote control 118, and so on. In embodiments where
control 2002 may be utilized to indicate off and on states of 65 both the remote control 118 and the communications module
the timer. For example, vibration of the remote control 2002 144 support at least two ofWIFI, BLUETOOTH, and ANT
may indicate that the timer is about to go off in a predefined communications, the user may select which of these commu-
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nications technologies to use for perfonning the pairing func- ule 144 may configure its WIFI communication module 2802
tion. Alternatively, when at least two communications tech- to accept an ad hoc counection from a device having the MAC
nologies are available, the remote control 118 may default to address of the remote control 118 (i.e., the remote control 118
attempting to perform the pairing function via one commu- itself). In cases where the initial pairing and communications
nication technology first and then, if that fails, to attempting occurred via BLUETOOTH, this may alleviate the need to
to perform the pairing function via another. For example, the ever enter a WIFI network access password or the like into the
remote control 118 may use BLUETOOTH in the first remote control 118. In particular, the WIFI communications
attempt to perfonn the pairing function, WIFI in the second module 2802 of the communications module 144 may be
attempt, and so on. configured (e.g., by way of the information about the remote
In any case, initiating the pairing function may include 10 control 118 received via BLUETOOTH communications) to
discovering, at the remote control 118, which adjustable bed accept connections/communications from the remote control
facilities 102 are available for pairing (e.g., there may be more 118. Alternatively, however, the WIFI communications mod-
than one adjustable bed facility 102 within communication ule 2802 may be configured to accept connections/commu-
range of the remote control 118) and then selecting one of nications from any WIFI-enabled device that provides the
those adjustable bed facilities 102 for pairing with the remote 15 correct password.
control 118. In embodiments, for example, a user may be led In embodiments, establishing communications may be as
through the steps of discovery/selection via prompts on a simple as transmitting a message at some time without
screen of the remote control 118 and may provide relevant acknowledgement of receipt. Establishing communications
feedback (e.g., an indication as to which adjustable bed facil- may also include transmitting a message and then retransmit-
ity 102 to select, etc.) via inputs of the remote control 118. 20 ting the message upon failure to receive an acknowledgement
Initiating the pairing function may also include establish- of receipt of the message. Establishing communications may
ing communications between the remote control 118 and the also include establishing a connection via a connection-based
communications facility 144 of the adjustable bed facility protocol (such as and without limitation TCP/IP). Establish-
102. Methods of establishing WIFI, BLUETOOTH, ANT, ing communications may include selecting a frequency divi-
etc. communications between two devices are known in the 25 sion, time division, code division, modulation, etc. that is
art and may include entering a password or the like at the suitable for transmitting and receiving data between commu-
remote control 118. nications modules. A variety of techniques for establishing
Once communications are established between the remote communications will be appreciated.
control 118 and the communications module 144 of the Referring to FIG. 30, the remote control 118 may commu-
adjustable bed facility 102, the remote control 118 may pass 30 nicate with a number of adjustable bed facilities 102. As
information about itself (e.g., phone number, MAC address, described below, the communication includes acknowledge-
software version, user preferences stored in the remote con- ments and may occur over multiple channels, allowing sub-
trol118, etc.) to the communications module 144 (step 2904), stantially reliable communication between the remote control
which may store them for later use. 118 and the adjustable bed facilities 102 even in the presence
Later, communications between the remote control 118 35 of interference, for example as might occur in an environment
and the communications module 144 may be tenninated and with other remote controls communicating with other adjust-
then reestablished (step 2908). In embodiments, the initial able bed facilities.
pairing and communications (see steps 2902 and 2904, A plurality of wireless communication channels (embod-
described above) may occur via one communication module ied, e.g., as frequency-division multiplexed channels, time-
(e.g., BLUETOOTH communication module 2804) and then 40 division multiplexed charmels, code-division multiplexed
subsequent communications may occur via another (e.g., channels, etc.) may be available between the remote control
WIFI communication module 2802). Thus, the communica- 118 and the adjustable bed facility 102. For example, these
tionmodules may employ incompatible interfaces to physical wireless charmels may be embodied as BLUETOOTH chan-
transmission media (e.g., BLUETOOTH and WIFI are nels between BLUETOOTH modules 2804, WIFI charmels
incompatible because they rely on different physical specifi- 45 between the WIFI modules 2802, and so on. Communication
cations that do not support signal and binary transmission between the remote control 118 and the adjustable bed facility
between the two). 102 begins over a default channel selected from the plurality
Generally, communications modules are incompatible of wireless communication channels (step 3002). Upon
when signal and binary transmission between the modules is detecting a second wireless communication channel with less
impossible due to a difference in the media layers (physical 50 interference than the default charmel, the remote control 118
layer, data link layer, and network layer) of the communica- may select the second wireless communication charmel for
tions modules. For example, at the physical level such differ- future communication with the adjustable bed facility 102
ences between communications modules may manifest as (step 3004). The remote control 118 may instruct the adjust-
dependence on different communications media (e.g., copper able bed facility 102 to communicate using the second wire-
wire vs. optical cable vs. air); dependence on different con- 55 less communication charmel. Thereafter, communications
figurations of a communications media (e.g., copper config- continue over the second wireless communication channel
uredas lOBASE2 vs. copper configured as lOOBASE-TX; air until a communications failure occurs (step 3008). In embodi-
used with FSK modulation vs. air used with ASK modulation; ments' the remote control 118 transmits a command to the
and so on); etc. A variety of incompatible differences between adjustable bed facility 102 instructing the adjustable bed
media layers will be appreciated and, thus, a variety of inc om- 60 facility 102 to switch to the new charmel.
patibilities between communications modules will likewise Communications between the remote control 118 and the
be appreciated. adjustable bed facilities 102 may include commands from the
In embodiments, the communications module 144 may use remote control 118 and acknowledgements from the adjust-
the infonnation that it has about the remote control 118 (e.g., able bed facilities 102. A communications failure occurs
the information it received in step 2904, described above) to 65 when an expected command or acknowledgement fails to
establish an ad hoc WIFI network between itself and the arrive prior to expiration of a timeout period. In particular,
remote control 118. For example, the communications mod- after sending a command to the adjustable bed facility 102,
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the remote control 118 expects to receive, prior to expiration laying-flat position (step 3308). The motion sensor 3202
of a timeout period, an acknowledgement from the adjustable detects the lack of motion (step 3310). The lay-flat logic 3204
bed facility 102; after receiving a command from the remote responds to the lack of motion (either immediately or after a
control 118, the adjustable bed facility 102 transmits an period of time) by deactivating the actuator 120 (step 3312).
acknowledgement and expects to receive, prior to expiration 5 By detecting the lack of motion and deactivating the actuator
of a timeout period, a subsequent command from the remote 120, the lay-flat logic 3204 conserves energy/frees up power
control 118. to be used by other aspects of the adjustable bed facility 102.
If the remote control 118 detects the communications fail- In addition, it should be appreciated that the lay-flat logic
ure (i.e., timeout prior to receiving expected acknowledge- 3204 does not depend upon the magnitude of the speed of the
ment), the remote control 118 reverts back to communicating
10 bed's motion, only the state of motion (i.e., moving vs. not
over the default channel (step 3010). Eventually, the remote
moving). Thus, any configuration in which the actuator 120
control 118 may again find another channel with less inter-
can move at all in response to the lay-flat logic 3204 (e.g.,
ference, at which point the remote control 118 may select that
channel for future communication (step 3004). actuators of different speeds/strengths, things of different
If the adjustable bed facility 102 detects the communica- 15 weights laying on the bed, etc.) can operate according to this
tions failure (i.e., timeout prior to receiving expected subse- method.
quent command), the adjustable bed facility 102 begins alter- As described above for example with reference to FIG. 2,
nating between the second channel and the default channel, the electronic facility 140 includes a controller 150 and a
listening for a the subsequent command from the remote communications module 144.
control 118 on both channels, sequentially, (step 3012) until it 20 Referring now to FIG. 34, an embodiment of the controller
receives the subsequent command. Having received the sub- 150 may include a programmable logic controller (PLC) or
sequent command, the adjustable bed facility 102 stops scan- the like, including a MicroController Unit (MCU) 3402, a
ning and instead continues listening on the channel that car- 2-way RF communication module 3404, and a data port 3408
ried the subsequent message received (step 3014). (e.g., serial data port RS485 or the like). An embodiment of
Referring to FIG. 31, embodiments of the remote control 25 the communications module 144 may include an MCU 3402,
118 may command more than one adjustable bed facility 102 the WIFI communication module 2802, the BLUETOOTH
at a time. The remote control 118 may send a command to a communication module 2804, theANT commnnication mod-
first adjustable bed facility 102 (step 3102); wait for a finite ule 2814, and a low-power or short-range radio interface 3410
timeout period to receive an acknowledgement from the first (e.g., 434 MHz radio interface of the like). The commnnica-
adjustable bed facility 102 (step 3104); upon receiving the 30 tions module 144 may be in operative communication with a
acknowledgement or upon expiration of the timeout period, data outlet 3412 through which an IPHONE or smartphone,
transmit the command to a second adjustable bed facility 102 computer, network, or the like commnnicates with the com-
(step 3108); wait for the finite timeout period to receive an munications module 144. Additionally or alternatively, an
acknowledgement from the second adjustable bed facility IPHONE, DRom phone, or smartphone 3432 (or computer,
102 (step 3110); and so on. Subsequent commands may be 35 network, or the like) may wirelessly communicate with the
sent, for example, in response to user input to the remote communications module 144.
control 118. These subsequent commands may include The WIFI commnnication module 2802 implements and
retransmissions of earlier commands for which acknowl- communicates via one of the family of IEEE 802.11 stan-
edgement was not received prior to expiration of the timeout dards. The BLUETOOTH communications module 2804
period. For example and without limitation, the remote con- 40 implements and commnnicates via to one of the family of
trol 118 may send a command to a first bed, fail to receive BLUETOOTH standards (e.g., Bluetooth v1.0, v1.0B, v 1.1 ,
acknowledgement from the first bed prior to expiration of a v1.2, v2.0+EDR, v2.1+EDR, v3.0+HS, v3.0+EDR, etc.). The
timeout period, send the command to a second bed, success- ANT communication module 2814 implements and commu-
fully or nnsuccessfully receive acknowledgement from the nicates according to one of the family ofANT standards (e.g.,
second bed prior to expiration of a timeout period, and then 45 ANT,ANT +, etc.). In embodiments, the ANT communication
retransmit the command to the first bed. module 2814 supports communications of at least 1 Mbps in
Referring to FIG. 32, the adjustable bed facility 102 may be a broadcast network, a peer-to-peer network (acknowledged
outfitted with a motion sensor 3202 operatively coupled to or bidirectional), a secure authenticated network, a star net-
lay-flat logic 3204 fortransitioning the adjustable bed facility work, a shared uni-directional network, a shared bi-direc-
102 to a laying-flat position. The motion sensor 3202 is con- 50 tional network, an ad-hoc automatically shared network, a
figured to detect motion of an actuator 120. In embodiments scanning mode network (e.g., a single hub node receiving
the motion sensor 3202 may include a Hall effect sensor, an communications from a plurality of other nodes), a practical
optical source/detector pair separated by a material that is mesh network (e.g., multiple star networks connected by
alternately transparent and opaque as it translates between the shared relay nodes), a shared cluster network (e.g., networks
source/detector pair, and so on. In embodiments, the lay-flay 55 with shared hub nodes in bidirectional communication), and
logic 3204 may be implemented in hardware, software, or the so on.
like. The electronic facility 140 may be operatively coupled to a
Referring to FIG. 33, in response to a command to lay the power down box 3414, a wire remote 3418 (e.g., an embodi-
adjustable bed facility 102 flat, the lay-flat logic 3204 causes ment of the remote control 118), a wireless remote 3420 (e.g.,
or activates an actuator 120 to move in a direction bringing the 60 an embodiment of the remote control 118), a Y cable 3422, a
adjustable bed facility 102 to a laying-flat position (step lift motor 3424 (e.g., an embodiment of the actuator 120), a
3302). As the adjustable bed facility 102 moves, the motion massage motor 3428 (e.g., an embodiment of the vibration
sensor 3202 detects the motion (step 3304). The actuator 120 facility 132), a personal computer 3430, and so on.
reaches a physical limit when the bed is laid flat, preventing The power down box 3414 may include a housing contain-
further motion by the actuator 120, even though the lay-flat 65 ing a battery and a button or the like to initiate a power down
logic 3204 continues to urge the actuator 120 to move in the sequence. The power down sequence may command the con-
direction that brought the adjustable bed facility 102 to the troller 150 to lay the adjustable bed facility 102 flat. Without
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limitation, this may include invoking, in response to a press of other device in communication with the sensors 3704 may
the button, the method described hereinabove with reference include a bed-side display device.
to FIG. 33. The real-time adjustment of the adjustable bed facility 102
The Y cable 3422 may make a shared, wired communica- may occur at a natural waking point as determined by refer-
tions path available between controller 150 and a number of ence to an indication of sleep quality. The indication of sleep
other devices. quality may indicate that a user 3708 is lightly asleep, deeply
In accordance with various embodiments of the present asleep, in Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep, and so on. For
invention, vibration of the remote control 2002 may be initi- example and without limitation, the sensors 3704 may
ated automatically as soon as the user preferences are include a headband that senses indicia of sleep quality such as
adjusted. In such a scenario, a user may perform a task to
10 and without limitation to electrical signals produced by the
govern the vibration mode. In an embodiment, vibration may
user's 3708 brain; the sensors 3704 may include a motion
be initiated based on user interaction with the remote control
sensor that detects motion of the user 3708 (e.g., rolling,
2002 through touch-based methods. For example, vibration
may be initiated through a single touch on the touch screen kicking, arms moving, etc.); the sensors 3704 may include a
user interface 2102. In another example, vibration of the 15 pressure sensor that detects a sleep position of the user 3708;
remote control 2002 may be initiated through a continual the sensors 3704 may include an acoustic sensor that detects
touch on the touch screen user interface 2102. In another a noise of the user 3708 (e.g., snoring, sleep talking, etc.); the
exemplary scenario, vibration of the remote control 2002 may accelerometer 1504; and so on.
be initiated through a persistent touch on the touch screen user Referring to FIG. 38, a controller may receive 3802 an
interface 2102. In yet another scenario, vibration of the 20 anti-snore activation signal from a remote control; monitor
remote control 2002 may be initiated through a swipe or any 3804 a sensor 3704 for a first reading indicative of a snoring
other similar mechanism without limitations. In certain user; activate 3808 an actuator 120 to move an adjustable bed
embodiments of the present invention, human biometric and facility 102 into an anti-snore position 3602; monitor 3810
behaviometric techniques may be employed to initiate the the adjustable bed facility 102 to confirm that the adjustable
vibrations for various operational characteristics. 25 bed facility 102 achieves the anti-snore position 3602; moni-
In accordance with various embodiments of the present tor 3812 the sensor 3704 for a second reading; and, after
invention, the touch screen user interface 2102 may also allow failing to receive the second reading, activating 3814 the
the user to adjust various operational settings and user pref- actuator 120 to move the adjustable bed facility 102 into a
erences using various methods including, without limitations, second anti-snore position.
single touch, persistent touch, continual touch, and the like. 30 Referring to FIG. 39, the remote control 118 may include a
Referring to FIG. 36, the adjustable bed facility 102 may touchscreen graphical user interface 3902 adapted to display
include a pre-set anti -snore position 3602 for quieting a snor- an anti-snore icon 3904, receive a touch input indicating
ing occupant of the adjustable bed facility 102. The anti-snore user-selection of the anti-snore icon 3904, and transmit an
position 3602 may be a head elevation position, such as anti-snore activation signal in response to the touch input.
7 -degrees above flat, IS-degrees above flat, something 35 In an embodiment of the present invention, the user may
between 7- and IS-degrees above flat, and so on. In embodi- define different types of vibrations for indicating various
ments the adjustable bed facility 102 may assume the anti- operational settings and user preferences. In another embodi-
snore position 3602 (e.g., by adjusting the position of the head ment, sound effects may also be associated in conjunction
frame 1004) in response to a user input. Without limitation, with the vibrations to indicate various operational settings
the user input may include a direct input to the adjustable bed 40 and user preferences.
facility 102 such as a press of a button or touch screen on the In accordance with various embodiments of the present
adjustable bed facility 102, a voice-command input, a signal invention, vibrations may be initiated in ways other than
transmitted by the remote control 118 (or the like) in response through touch-based modes. In an exemplary scenario, vibra-
to the user input, and so on. In embodiments the adjustable tions may be initiated using buttons provided on the remote
bed facility 102 may assume the anti-snore position 3602 in 45 control 2002. For example, several buttons may be provided
response to a sensor input indicating that the occupant of the that may designate a specific user preference. When a user
adjustable bed facility 102 is or may be snoring. For example presses a specific button, the user preference associated with
and without limitation the sensor may include an acoustic that button may be identified and the remote control 2002 may
sensor responsive to the sound of snoring; an air-flow sensor be enabled to vibrate as soon as the specific user preference
responsive to inhibited breathing such as due to snoring or 50 resets. In another embodiment, a single button may be pro-
sleep apnea, and so on; a vibration sensor that detects a vided to perform operations associated with various user
characteristic vibration of the user associated with snoring; or preferences.
the like. In accordance with various embodiments, icons may be
Referring to FIG. 37, a user 3708 may lay upon a mattress provided on the remote control 2002 to control various opera-
3702 of the adjustable bed facility 102. The user 3708, the 55 tional settings and user preferences. These icons may be
mattress 3702, and the adjustable bed facility 102 may be related to a timer, a clock, massage motor speed, horizontal
instrumented with sensors 3704. The sensors 3704 may detect bed angle setting, vertical bed angle setting, bed height, bed
various indicia of sleep quality and report the indicia (e.g., via width, bed length, and the like. Similarly, various icons
wired or wireless communication) to other elements of the related to the second system may also be provided on the
adjustable bed facility 102, the remote control 118, the aux- 60 remote control 2002. Interaction with any of these icons may
iliary systems 114, and so on. This allows for both real-time result in vibration of the remote control as described herein.
adjustment of the adjustable bed facility 102 to improve the In accordance with various embodiments of the present
sleep quality and reporting of the indicia and the sleep quality. invention, the remote control 2002 may be utilized to perform
Without limitation the reporting may occur via the remote several operations such as controlling the adjustable bed 2020
control 118 or any other device in communication with the 65 based on user preferences, identifying resetting of user pref-
sensors 3704 or the adjustable bed facility 102. In addition to erences associated with the adjustable bed 2020, controlling
any and all such devices described herein and elsewhere, the operations of the second system based on user preferences,
US 8,909,357 B2
89 90
identifying resetting of user preferences associated with the limited by the foregoing examples, but is to be understood in
second system, and the like without limitations. the broadest sense allowable by law.
The elements depicted in flow charts and block diagrams All documents referenced herein are hereby incorporated
throughout the figures imply logical boundaries between the by reference.
elements. However, according to software or hardware engi-
neering practices, the depicted elements and the functions What is claimed is:
thereof may be implemented as parts of a monolithic software
1. A control system, comprising:
structure, as standalone software modules, or as modules that
a first communication system adapted to communicate
employ external routines, code, services, and so forth, or any
between a handheld remote control and a first adjustable
combination of these; and all such implementations are 10
within the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, while the bed controller mounted to a first adjustable bed facility,
foregoing drawings and descriptions set forth functional the first adjustable bed controller adapted to adjust, fol-
aspects of the disclosed systems, no particular arrangement of lowing receipt of a repositioning command from the
software for implementing these functional aspects should be handheld remote control, a position of a first adjustable
inferred from these descriptions unless explicitly stated or 15 bed facility bed segment; and
otherwise clear from the context. a second communication system adapted to communicate
Similarly, it will be appreciated that the various steps iden- between the first adjustable bed controller of the first
tified and described above may be varied, and that the order of adjustable bed facility and a second adjustable bed con-
steps may be adapted to particular applications of the tech- troller mounted to a second adjustable bed facility, the
niques disclosed herein. All such variations and modifications 20 second adjustable bed controller adapted to adjust, fol-
are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure. As lowing receipt of the repositioning command transmit-
such, the depiction and/or description of an order for various ted from the first adjustable bed controller, a position of
steps should not be understood to require a particular order of a second adjustable bed facility bed segment;
execution for those steps, unless required by a particular wherein:
application, or explicitly stated or otherwise clear from the 25 the first adjustable bed facility and the second adjustable
context. bed facility are arranged in an adjacent, side-by-side
The methods or processes described above, and steps arrangement; and
thereof, may be realized in hardware, software, or any com- the second communication system is adapted to commu-
bination of these suitable for a particular application. The nicate information related to synchronizing a motion of
hardware may include a general-purpose computer and/or 30 the first and second adjustable bed facilities to move as a
dedicated computing device. The processes may be realized single object and optionally one or more of implement-
in one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, embedded ing a safety feature, communicating an error, communi-
microcontrollers, programmable digital signal processors, or cating a software update, communicating a preference,
other programmable device, along with internal and/or exter- communicating a setting, and communicating a report.
nal memory. The processes may also, or instead, be embodied 35 2. The control system of claim 1, wherein communication
in an application specific integrated circuit, a programmable between the first and second adjustable bed controllers is via
gate array, progranlillable array logic, or any other device or at least one of a standard wireless connection, RF, IR, Blue-
combination of devices that may be configured to process tooth, cellular, or WiFi.
electronic signals. It will further be appreciated that one or 3. The control system of claim 1, wherein, upon receiving
more of the processes may be realized as computer executable 40 the communication from the first adjustable bed facility, the
code created using a structured programming language such second adjustable bed facility interprets the communication
as C, an object oriented progranlilling language such as C++, as a command.
or any other high-level or low-level progranlilling language 4. The control system of claim 1, wherein the first and
(including assembly languages, hardware description lan- second adjustable bed facilities are twin size adjustable bed
guages, and database programming languages and technolo- 45 facilities that are adjacent to one another to form a king size
gies) that may be stored, compiled or interpreted to run on one adjustable bed facility.
of the above devices, as well as heterogeneous combinations 5. The control system of claim 1, wherein the second com-
of processors, processor architectures, or combinations of munication system is further adapted to: communicate when
different hardware and software. at least one of the adjustable bed facilities has encountered an
Thus, in one aspect, each method described above and 50 obstruction to allow the adjustable bed facility to function to
combinations thereof may be embodied in computer execut- ensure safety of a user.
able code that, when executing on one or more computing 6. The control system of claim 1, wherein the second com-
devices, performs the steps thereof. In another aspect, the munication system is further adapted to: communicate a posi-
methods may be embodied in systems that perform the steps tion error sensed by at least one adjustable bed facility.
thereof, and may be distributed across devices in a number of 55 7. The control system of claim 1, wherein the second com-
ways, or all of the functionality may be integrated into a munication system is further adapted to: implement a soft-
dedicated, standalone device or other hardware. In another ware update of at least one adjustable bed controller.
aspect, means for performing the steps associated with the S. The control system of claim 1, wherein the second com-
processes described above may include any of the hardware munication system is further adapted to: communicate a user
and/or software described above. All such permutations and 60 preference.
combinations are intended to fall within the scope of the 9. The control system of claim 1, wherein the second com-
present disclosure. munication system is further adapted to: communicate opera-
While the invention has been disclosed in counection with tional setting.
the preferred embodiments shown and described in detail, 10. The control system of claim 1, wherein the second
various modifications and improvements thereon will 65 communication system is further adapted to: communicate at
become readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Accord- least one of the group consisting of: error information, diag-
ingly, the spirit and scope of the present invention is not to be nostic information, and general usage history information.
US 8,909,357 B2
91 92
11. The control system of claim 1, wherein the handheld the first adjustable bed controller and the second adjust-
remote control comprises a touch screen display adapted to able bed controller are adapted to communicate infor-
receive user input for the command to adjust the position of mation to each other related to synchronizing simul-
the bed segment. taneous motion of the first adjustable bed facility bed
12. The control system of claim 1, wherein the handheld segment and the second adjustable bed facility bed
remote control is a cell phone or a smart phone.
segment according to the repositioning command.
13. The control system of claim 1, further comprising a
second handheld remote control adapted to transmit a second 15. The adjustable bed system of claim 14, wherein the first
command to the second adjustable bed controller, wherein the adjustable bed controller and the second adjustable bed con-
second adjustable bed controller is adapted to adjust a posi- troller are adapted to communicate infonnation wirelessly to
tion of a bed segment of the second adjustable bed facility 10 each other.
following receipt of the second command and independently 16. The adjustable bed system of claim 14, wherein the first
from motion of the first adjustable bed facility. adjustable bed facility and second adjustable bed facility are
14. An adjustable bed system comprising: twin size adjustable bed facilities that are adjacent to one
a first remote control adapted to transmit a repositioning 15 another to form a king size adjustable bed facility.
command to a first adjustable bed controller of a first
17. The adjustable bed system of claim 14, wherein the first
adjustable bed facility;
remote control comprises a touch screen display adapted to
a first adjustable bed facility comprising a first adjustable
bed controller mounted thereto, the first adjustable bed receive user input for the repositioning command.
controller being adapted to (i) receive the repositioning 18. The adjustable bed system of claim 14, wherein the first
command from the first remote control, (ii) adjust a 20 remote control is a cell phone or a smart phone.
position of a first adjustable bed facility bed segment 19. The adjustable bed system of claim 14, wherein the first
according to the repositioning command, and (iii) trans- adjustable bed controller and the second adjustable bed con-
mit the repositioning command to a second adjustable troller are adapted to communicate infonnation wirelessly to
bed controller of a second adjustable bed facility; and each other.
a second adjustable bed facility comprising a second 25
adjustable bed controller mounted thereto, the second adjustable bed controller and the first remote control are
adjustable bed controller being adapted to (i) receive the adapted to communicate wirelessly to each other.
repositioning command from the first adjustable bed
controller and (ii) adjust a position of a second adjust- adjustable bed controller and the second adjustable bed con-
able bed facility bed segment according to the reposi- 30 troller are further adapted to communicate infonnation to
tioning command; each other related to at least one of implementing a safety
wherein: feature, communicating an error, communicating a software
the first adjustable bed facility and the second adjustable update, communicating a preference, communicating a set-
bed facility are arranged in an adjacent, side-by-side ting, and communicating a report.
arrangement; and * * * * *

Ascion LLC v. Tempur Sealy - Complaint

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Ascion LLC v. Tempur Sealy - Complaint

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Case: 5:17-cv-00403-JMH Doc #: 1 Filed: 06/05/15 Page: 1 of 27 - Page ID#: 1

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

Plaintiff Ascion, LLC, d/b/a Reverie (Reverie), complains against

Defendants Tempur Sealy International, Inc., f/k/a Tempur-Pedic International,

Inc. (Tempur Sealy), and Tempur-Pedic Management, LLC (Tempur

Management) (collectively, Tempur-Pedic or Defendants) as follows:

2. Reverie is an innovator in bedding technology, particularly adjustable

time in research and development and in building its innovative intellectual

awarded approximately 46 patents in the bedding field, including the patents

asserted in this litigation.

3. Defendant Tempur Sealy is a corporation organized and existing

Tempur Sealy was formerly known as Tempur-Pedic International, Inc., until it

4. Defendant Tempur Management is, upon information and belief, a

information and belief, a subsidiary of Tempur Sealy.

JURISDICTION AND VENUE

6. This action also involves allegations of breach of confidentiality

same core of facts or related facts and circumstances.

7. Tempur Sealy is a global bedding company with extensive operations

controls, and related products, including the products accused of infringement in

8. Tempur Sealy and Tempur Management have availed themselves of

operates or does substantial business with elite retailers and authorized

alleged to infringe Reveries patents. Tempur Sealy and Tempur Management

have also entered into contracts with Reverie.

9. Venue is proper in this District pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 1391 and

continuing to commit, acts of patent infringement and breach of contract in this

Tempur Sealy is subject to personal jurisdiction in this district.

Patent is attached as Exhibit A.

Patent is attached as Exhibit B.

Patent), entitled Controlling an Adjustable Bed and a Second System With a

A true and correct copy of the 116 Patent is attached as Exhibit C.

Patent is attached as Exhibit D.

Patent is attached as Exhibit E.

Patent), entitled System of Two-Way Communication in an Adjustable Bed with

correct copy of the 328 Patent is attached as Exhibit F.

enforce the Reverie Patents.

patented features in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 287(a), thus giving Defendants

constructive notice. In addition, Reverie gave actual notice to Defendants in

3, 2015, and a meeting at Tempur Sealys offices in Kentucky on June 4, 2015.

REVERIES PATENTED PRODUCTS

21. Reverie manufactures and sells a number of bedding products,

inventions claimed in Reveries numerous patents.

22. Among the Reverie products that embody Reveries patented

patented products are depicted below.

23. Reveries bedding products compete in the marketplace with Tempur

Sealys bedding products, including those products now accused of infringement

and especially adjustable bedding products.

THE ALLEGED PATENT INFRINGEMENT

wide range of bedding products, including adjustable bed products, foundations,

TEMPUR-Ergo Premier, TEMPUR-Ergo Grand, Ergo Link, TEMPUR-Ergo

Grand Wireless Remote, TEMPUR-Ergo Premier Wireless Remote, TEMPUR-

Ergo Smart Control App, TEMPUR-Up Foundation, TEMPUR-Ergo Plus

and remote controls that incorporate similar features and functionality.

25. As alleged herein, Defendants have engaged in actions that directly

and indirectly infringe the Reverie Patents.

infringed under 35 U.S.C. 271(a) by making, using, selling, offering to sell,

and/or importing infringing products into the United States.

inducing infringement under 35 U.S.C. 271(b) by encouraging acts of direct

devices operating the Apple iOS and Android operating systems.

28. For one or more of the Reverie Patents, Defendants have

contributorily infringed under 35 U.S.C. 271(c) by selling or offering to sell

within, or importing into, the United States a component of a patented machine,

manufacture, combination, or composition, or a material or apparatus for use in

practicing a patented process, constituting a material part of the claimed

invention(s), knowing the same to be specially made or adapted for an infringing