BED WITH AUTOMATIC TILTING OCCUPANT SUPPORT

TITLE: BED WITH AUTOMATIC TILTING OCCUPANT SUPPORT A bed including an open supportive framework pivotably mounting an occupant support platform for movement between a horizontal and an upright position. The bed includes a drive mechanism and associated motor with controls to enable selective movement of the platform between the two positions. The drive assembly includes a lead screw operatively connecting the open framework to the platform. A nut pivotably mounted on the framework threadably receives the screw which, when turned, causes pivotal movement of the platform between the two positions. The framework is open at a foot end of the bed to enable an occupant to move freely toward or away from the support platform. The platform includes a foot rest assembly that may be selectively moved longitudinally relative to the platform between an operative and inoperative position. In the operative position, the foot rest may be utilized to receive and support the weight of the occupant. The inoperative position of the foot rest assembly allows free movement of the occupant's feet. Safety provisions assure that the platform cannot be pivoted past either position, that the platform cannot fall during a power outage, and that the motor will not operate unless the foot rest is in the operative position.