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Hospital bed obstacle detection device and method

  • US 7,472,437 B2
  • Filed: 04/21/2003
  • Issued: 01/06/2009
  • Est. Priority Date: 04/19/2002
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A patient support apparatus comprising:

  • a first component;

    a second component configured to move relative to said first component along a path of travel;

    a detection unit comprising;

    a single emitter supported by one of said first and second components anda plurality of detectors supported by the other of said first and second components, said detectors configured to provide a control signal in response to an obstacle within said path of travel between the emitter and any one of the plurality of detectors; and

    a control unit in communication with said detector; and

    a lifting device configured to move said second component vertically relative to said first component and wherein said control unit deactivates said lifting device if any one of said plurality of detectors fails to detect a signal emitted by said single emitter.

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