COMPACT FOLDABLE BED WITH ENHANCED COMFORT

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to Chinese Application CN 202421908105.2 filed Aug. 8, 2024, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/733,462 filed Jun. 4, 2024, which claims priority to Chinese Applications CN 202322786142.2 filed Oct. 17, 2023, CN 202323661074.3 filed Dec. 29, 2023, and CN 202420255058.X filed Feb. 1, 2024. The disclosure of each application is incorporated herein for all purposes by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to foldable beds and particularly to foldable beds with enhanced comfort.

BACKGROUND

Foldable structures (e.g., beds, tables) are more and more popular these days. A typical structure usually includes a foldable frame to support a mattress or a panel. However, many existing foldable frames can only be folded in half. As such, these frames are often bulky when folded, requiring large storage and transport spaces. Moreover, foldable frames are typically made of metals, requiring the use of thick mattresses to ensure adequate comfort. As a result, they are bulky and inconvenient to use. In addition, when not in use, these beds can take up considerable storage space, making them less practical for small living areas or for frequent transport.

Given the current state of the art, there remains a need for frames and beds that address the abovementioned issues.

The information disclosed in this Background section is provided for an understanding of the general background of the invention and is not an acknowledgement or suggestion that this information forms part of the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure provides pivoting/locking mechanisms, foldable frames, foldable beds, foldable bed assemblies, and foldable bed packages that are easy and convenient to use. The foldable beds can be folded multiple times and have relatively smaller sizes when folded. The foldable bed assemblies can provide adequate comfort with thinner cushions.

In various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a foldable bed including a front unit, a rear unit and a middle support. The front unit includes a front frame and a front panel disposed at the front frame. The rear unit includes a rear frame and a rear panel disposed at the rear frame. The middle support pivotally connects the front frame of the front unit and the rear frame of the rear unit, thereby allowing the front unit and the rear unit to fold and unfold relative to each other. Each of the front and rear panels has a proximal portion. When the foldable bed is in an unfolded state, the front and rear panels are substantially leveled with each other and the proximal portions of the front and rear panels are disposed adjacent to each other, thereby allowing the front and rear panels to support a rollable cushion in an unrolled state to enhance comfort. When the foldable bed is in a folded state, an upper portion of the middle support, the proximal portion of the front panel and the proximal portion of the rear panel collectively form a groove to accommodate at least a portion of the rollable cushion in a rolled state.

In some exemplary embodiments, a thickness of the foldable bed in the folded state is substantially the same as a diameter of the rollable cushion in the rolled state.

In some exemplary embodiments, a width of the groove is greater than a radius of the rollable cushion in the rolled state, a height of the groove is smaller than the radius of the rollable cushion in the rolled state, or both.

In some exemplary embodiments, the width of the groove is at least 1.1 times or at least 1.2 times the radius of the rollable cushion in the rolled state.

In some exemplary embodiments, the height of the groove is at most 0.8 times or at most 0.7 times the radius of the rollable cushion in the rolled state.

In some exemplary embodiments, the front panel includes a front lip extended downward from at least a portion of an outer edge of the front panel and connected to the front frame. The rear panel includes a rear lip extended downward from at least a portion of an outer edge of the rear panel and connected to the rear frame. The front lip includes a left front notch and a right front notch adjacent to the proximal portion of the front panel. The rear lip includes a left rear notch and a right rear notch adjacent to the proximal portion of the rear panel. The left front notch and the left rear notch are disposed at a left side of the middle support and are substantially symmetrical to each other. The right front notch and the right rear notch are disposed at a right side of the middle support and are substantially symmetrical to each other. When the foldable bed is in the folded state, the left front notch, the left rear notch, the right front notch and the right rear notch collectively assist in accommodating and holding the rollable cushion.

In an exemplary embodiment, each of the left front notch, the left rear notch, the right front notch and the right rear notch is shaped with a curved edge to abut the rollable cushion in the rolled state.

In some exemplary embodiments, the front frame includes a first front subframe, a second front subframe, and a front pivoting/locking mechanism that pivotally connects the first and second front subframes to allow folding and unfolding of the first and second front subframes relative to each other and selectively locks the first and second front subframes to prevent accidental folding of the first and second front subframes relative to each other. The front panel includes a first front subpanel disposed at the first front subframe and a second front subpanel disposed at the second front subframe. The rear frame includes a first rear subframe, a second rear subframe and a rear pivoting/locking mechanism that pivotally connects the first and second rear subframes to allow folding and unfolding of the first and second rear subframes relative to each other and selectively locks the first and second rear subframes to prevent accidental folding of the first and second rear subframes relative to each other. The rear panel includes a first rear subpanel disposed at the first rear subframe and a second rear subpanel disposed at the second rear subframe.

In some exemplary embodiments, each of the first front subpanel, the second front subpanel, the first rear subpanel, and the second rear subpanel is a unitary piece.

In an exemplary embodiment, the unitary piece is a monolithic molded plastic panel.

In some exemplary embodiments, the front unit further includes a front support pivotally connected to the first front subframe of the front frame. The rear unit further includes a rear support pivotally connected to the first rear subframe of the rear frame.

In some such embodiments, the middle support includes a left middle coupling piece at a left side of the middle support and a right middle coupling piece at a right side of the middle support. Each of the left and right middle coupling pieces includes a first segment and a second segment. Each of the second front subframe and the second rear subframe includes a left peripheral bar pivotally connected to the first segment of the left middle coupling piece and a right peripheral bar pivotally connected to the first segment of the right middle coupling piece. When the foldable bed is in the unfolded state and in an upright position, the second segment of the left middle coupling piece abuts upwardly the left peripheral bars of the second front subframe and the second rear subframe, and the second segment of the right middle coupling piece abuts upwardly the right peripheral bars of the second front subframe and the second rear subframe.

In an exemplary embodiment, the middle support further includes a first middle lateral bar, a left middle leg, a right middle leg, and optionally, a second middle lateral bar. The first middle lateral bar is connected to the left and right middle coupling pieces. The left middle leg is connected to the left middle coupling piece, the first middle lateral bar, or both. The right middle leg is connected to the right middle coupling piece, the first middle lateral bar, or both. The optional second middle lateral bar, if present, is connected to the left middle leg and the right middle leg.

In some exemplary embodiments, the front support is pivotally connected to the first front subframe of the front frame through a lateral bar disposed at the first front subframe of the front frame. The rear support is pivotally connected to the first rear subframe of the rear frame through a lateral bar disposed at the first rear subframe of the rear frame.

In some exemplary embodiments, the foldable bed further includes one or more front adjustable bars and one or more rear adjustable bars. Each of the one or more front adjustable bars has an end pivotally connected to the front support and another end pivotally connected to the first front subframe of the front frame to control rotation of the front support with respect to the first front subframe of the front frame. Each of the one or more rear adjustable bars has an end pivotally connected to the rear support and another end pivotally connected to the first rear subframe of the rear frame to control rotation of the rear support with respect to the first rear subframe of the rear frame.

In some such embodiments, the front support includes a pair of front legs and a front leg bar connected to the pair of front legs. Each of the one or more front adjustable bars is pivotally connected to the front leg bar of the front support and pivotally connected to a peripheral bar of the first front subframe of the front frame. The rear support includes a pair of rear legs and a rear leg bar connected to the pair of rear legs. Each of the one or more rear adjustable bars is pivotally connected to the rear leg bar of the rear support and pivotally connected to a peripheral bar of the first rear subframe of the rear frame.

In some exemplary embodiments, the front frame and the rear frame are substantially the same as each other and disposed substantially symmetrical to each other. The front panel and the rear panel are substantially the same as each other and disposed substantially symmetrical to each other.

In various embodiments, the present disclosure provides a foldable bed assembly including a foldable bed disclosed herein, and a rollable cushion to be placed on the front and rear panels of the foldable bed when the foldable bed is in the unfolded state and to be accommodated at least in part in the groove of the foldable bed when the foldable bed is in the folded state.

In some exemplary embodiments, a width of the rollable cushion is substantially the same as a width of the front or rear panel; a length of the rollable cushion is substantially the same as a sum of a length of the front panel and a length of the rear panel; a thickness of the rollable cushion is in a range of from about 5 cm to about 10 cm; or any combination thereof.

In various embodiments, the present disclosure provides a foldable bed package including a foldable bed disclosed herein, a rollable cushion, and a box for housing the foldable bed in the folded state and the rollable cushion in the rolled state and accommodated at least partially in the groove of the foldable bed in the folded state.

The pivoting/locking mechanisms, foldable frames, foldable beds, foldable bed assemblies, and foldable bed packages of the present disclosure have other features and advantages that will be apparent from, or are set forth in more detail in, the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and the following Detailed Description, which together serve to explain certain principles of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the Detailed Description, serve to explain the principles and implementations of exemplary embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 1A is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating an exemplary foldable frame in an unfolded state in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, and 1F are perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 1A in some intermediate states in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1G is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 1A in a folded state in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a partially disassembled view schematically illustrating an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3A is a partially disassembled view schematically illustrating an exemplary foldable frame in an unfolded state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3B is an enlarged view taken along circle A of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is a partially cutout side view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 3A in the unfolded state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3D is an enlarged view taken along circle B of FIG. 3C.

FIG. 3E is another partially cutout side view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 3A in the unfolded state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3F is an enlarged view taken along circle C of FIG. 3E.

FIG. 3G is a side view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 3A in the unfolded state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3H is an enlarged view taken along circle D of FIG. 3G.

FIG. 3I is a side view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 3A in a first intermediate state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3J is an enlarged view taken along circle E of FIG. 3I.

FIG. 3K is a side view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 3A in a second intermediate state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3L is an enlarged view taken along circle F of FIG. 3K.

FIG. 4A is a disassembled view schematically illustrating an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4B is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism of FIG. 4A in a locked state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 4C and 4D are perspective views schematically illustrating the exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism of FIG. 4A in an unlocked state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5A is a disassembled view schematically illustrating an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism of FIG. 5A in a locked state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5C and 5D are perspective views schematically illustrating the exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism of FIG. 5A in an unlocked state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6A is a disassembled view schematically illustrating an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism of FIG. 6A in a locked state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6C is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism of FIG. 6A in an unlocked state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view schematically illustrating an exemplary foldable bed in an unfolded state in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 7B, 7C, 7D, and 7E are perspective views schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable bed of FIG. 7A in some intermediate states in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7F is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable bed of FIG. 7A in a folded state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7G is another perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable bed of FIG. 7A in a folded state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an exemplary foldable bed assembly in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a cutout perspective view schematically illustrating an exemplary foldable bed package in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

As will be apparent to those of skill in the art, the components illustrated in the figures described above are combinable in any useful number and combination. The figures are intended to be illustrative in nature and are not limiting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to implementation of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same reference indicators will be used throughout the drawings and the following detailed description to refer to the same or like parts. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the following detailed description is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other embodiments of the present disclosure will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having benefit of this disclosure.

In the interest of clarity, not all of the routine features of the implementations described herein are shown and described. It will be appreciated that, in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions are made in order to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with application-and business-related constraints, and that these specific goals will vary from one implementation to another and from one developer to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of engineering for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Many modifications and variations of the exemplary embodiments set forth in this disclosure can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the exemplary embodiments, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The specific exemplary embodiments described herein are offered by way of example only, and the disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Embodiments of the present invention are described in the context of pivoting/locking mechanisms, foldable frames, foldable beds, foldable bed assemblies and foldable bed packages. The frames can be made of various materials including but not limited to metals (e.g., iron, steel, and aluminum), plastics and woods. In some exemplary embodiments, some components of a frame are made of metals or the like while some other components are made of plastics, rubbers or the like.

Referring to FIGS. 1A-1G, there is depicted an exemplary foldable frame, generally designated 100, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Foldable frame 100 includes a front section, such as front section 110, and a rear section, such as rear section 120. The front and rear sections can be but do not have to be identical or symmetric to each other. The front and rear sections are foldable relative to each other, and each of the front and rear sections include two or more subsections foldable relative to each other. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, front section 110 includes a first front subsection, such as first front subsection 111, and a second front subsection, such as second front subsection 112. The first and second front subsections are foldable relative to each other. Similarly, rear section 120 includes a first rear subsection, such as first rear subsection 121, and a second front subsection, such as second rear subsection 122. The first and second rear subsections are foldable relative to each other. As such, the foldable frame can be folded at least four-folds. This significantly reduces the size of the folded frame. As such, when folded, the frame requires less storage space and is very convenient to carry around.

In some exemplary embodiments, the front section includes a front pivoting/locking mechanism that pivotally connects the first and second front subsections to allow folding and unfolding of the first and second front subsections relative to each other and selectively locks the first and second front subsections to prevent accidental folding of the first and second front subsections relative to each other. Similarly, in some exemplary embodiments, the rear section includes a rear pivoting/locking mechanism that pivotally connects the first and second rear subsections to allow folding and unfolding of the first and second rear subsections relative to each other and selectively locks the first and second rear subsections to prevent accidental folding of the first and second rear subsections relative to each other. The front and rear pivoting/locking mechanisms can be but do not have to be identical to each other, and can by any of pivoting/locking mechanisms 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, which will be described in more detail later, or other suitable pivoting/locking mechanisms. As a non-limiting example, the front and rear pivoting/locking mechanisms are illustrated to be substantially the same, and are generally designated 200.

In some exemplary embodiments, foldable frame 100 includes a plurality of supports coupled to the front and/or rear sections and configured to support the front and/or rear sections when the foldable frame is unfolded and in use. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, foldable frame 100 includes a front support, such as front support 130, a rear support, such as rear support 140, and a middle support, such as middle support 150. It should be noted that the term “middle” as used herein does not necessarily mean the center of the frame.

The front support is pivotally connected to the first front subsection of the front section such that the front support is foldable relative to the first front subsection of the first section. The rear support is pivotally connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section such that the rear support is foldable relative to the first rear subsection of the rear section. The front and rear sections are pivotally connected to the middle support such that the front and rear sections are foldable relative to each other. In some exemplary embodiments, the front section is pivotally connected to the middle support at a front side of the middle support, and the rear section is pivotally connected to the middle support at a rear side of the middle support. For instance, in an exemplary embodiment, the second front subsection of the front section and the second rear subsection are pivotally connected to the middle support, with the first front subsection pivotally connected to the second front subsection and the first rear subsection pivotally connected to the second rear subsection.

As such, when the foldable frame is in a folded state (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 1G), the first front and rear subsections are disposed between the second front and rear subsections, with the front support disposed between the first and second front subsections, and the rear support disposed between the first and second rear subsections. Folded frame 100 is compact and has a relatively smaller size. As such, it requires less storage space and it very convenient to carry around. In addition, multiple folded frames can be stacked together. When the foldable frame is in an unfolded state (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 1A), the second front and rear subsections are disposed between the first front and rear subsections, and the front and rear sections are supported by the front, middle and rear supports.

In some exemplary embodiments, foldable frame 100 includes means to control rotation of the front and/or rear supports. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the foldable frame includes one or more front adjustable bars, each having an end pivotally connected to the front support and another end pivotally connected to the first front subsection of the front section to control rotation of the front support with respect to the first front subsection of the front section. The foldable frame also includes one or more rear adjustable bars, each having an end pivotally connected to the rear support and another end pivotally connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section to control rotation of the rear support with respect to the first rear subsection of the rear section. Front and rear adjustable bars can be but do not have to be identical to each other. As a non-limiting example, the front and rear adjustable bars are illustrated to be substantially the same, and generally designated 160. In some exemplary embodiments, an adjustable bar includes two or more bar segments slidably connected to each other and selectively movable relative to each other to adjust its length. Examples of such an adjustable bar are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 11,357,334 and 11,103,077, the content of each application are incorporated herein for all purposes by reference in its entirety.

In some exemplary embodiments, a subsection (e.g., the first front subsection, the second front subsection, the first rear subsection, or the second rear subsection) includes one or more bars. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, first front subsection 111 includes left peripheral bar 113 and right peripheral bar 114, and second front subsection 112 includes left peripheral bar 115 and right peripheral bar 116. In some such embodiments, first section 110 includes a pair of front pivoting/locking mechanisms, one connecting left peripheral bar 113 with left peripheral bar 115 and the other connecting right peripheral bar 114 and right peripheral bar 116. In some exemplary embodiments, first front subsection 111 includes lateral peripheral bar 117 connected to or formed with left peripheral bar 113 and right peripheral bar 114.

Similarly, in some exemplary embodiments, first rear subsection 121 includes left peripheral bar 123 and right peripheral bar 124, and second rear subsection 122 includes left peripheral bar 125 and right peripheral bar 126. In some such embodiments, first section 120 includes a pair of rear pivoting/locking mechanisms, one connecting left peripheral bar 123 with left peripheral bar 125 and the other connecting right peripheral bar 124 and right peripheral bar 126. In some exemplary embodiments, first rear subsection 121 includes lateral peripheral bar 127 connected to or formed with left peripheral bar 123 and right peripheral bar 124.

In some exemplary embodiments, the front support is pivotally connected to the first front subsection of the front section through a lateral bar, such as lateral interior bar 118, disposed at the first front subsection of the front section. In an exemplary embodiment, lateral interior bar 118 has an end fixedly connected to left peripheral bar 113 and another end fixedly connected to right peripheral bar 114, and the front support is pivotally connected to lateral interior bar 118. In another exemplary embodiment, lateral interior bar 118 has an end pivotally connected to left peripheral bar 113 and another end pivotally connected to right peripheral bar 114, and the front support is fixedly connected to lateral interior bar 118.

In some exemplary embodiments, the front support includes a pair of front legs, such as leg 131, each connected to lateral interior bar 118. In some exemplary embodiments, the front support also includes a front leg bar, such front leg bar 132, connected to the pair of front legs. In some such embodiments, each of the one or more front adjustable bars is pivotally connected to the front leg bar of the front support and pivotally connected to a peripheral bar (e.g., lateral peripheral bar 117) of the first front subsection of the front section.

Similarly, in some exemplary embodiments, the rear support is pivotally connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section through a lateral bar, such as lateral interior bar 128, disposed at the first rear subsection of the rear section. In an exemplary embodiment, lateral interior bar 128 has an end fixedly connected to left peripheral bar 123 and another end fixedly connected to right peripheral bar 124, and the rear support is pivotally connected to lateral interior bar 128. In another exemplary embodiment, lateral interior bar 128 has an end pivotally connected to left peripheral bar 123 and another end pivotally connected to right peripheral bar 124, and the rear support is fixedly connected to lateral interior bar 128.

In some exemplary embodiments, the rear support includes a pair of rear legs, such as leg 141, each connected to lateral interior bar 128. In some exemplary embodiments, the rear support also includes a rear leg bar, such rear leg bar 142, connected to the pair of rear legs. In some such embodiments, each of the one or more rear adjustable bars is pivotally connected to the rear leg bar of the rear support and pivotally connected to a peripheral bar (e.g., lateral peripheral bar 127) of the first rear subsection of the rear section.

In some exemplary embodiments, the middle support includes a left middle coupling piece at a left side of the middle support and a right middle coupling piece at a right side of the middle support. The left and right middle coupling pieces can be but do not have to be identical to each other. As a non-limiting example, the left and right middle coupling pieces are illustrated to be substantially the same, and generally designated 151. In some exemplary embodiments, each of the left and right middle coupling pieces includes a first segment, such as first segment 152, and a second segment, such as second segment 153. In some such embodiments, left peripheral bar 123 of the second front subsection and left peripheral bar 125 of the second rear subsection are pivotally connected to the first segment of the left middle coupling piece. Right peripheral bar 124 of the second front subsection and right peripheral bar 126 of the second rear subsection are pivotally connected to the first segment of the right middle coupling piece. When the foldable frame is unfolded and in an upright position (e.g., in use), the second segment of the left middle coupling piece abuts upwardly left peripheral bar 123 of the second front subsection and left peripheral bar 125 of the second rear subsection, and the second segment of the right middle coupling piece abuts upwardly the right peripheral bars of the second front and rear subsections. As such, the left and right middle coupling pieces not only pivotally connect the second front and rear subsections, but also enhance the stability of the foldable frame when in use and restrict the foldable frame from unfolding beyond its unfolded state.

In some exemplary embodiments, the middle support includes a pair of middle legs, such as leg 154, and a first middle lateral bar, such as first middle lateral bar 155. The first middle lateral bar is connected to the left and right middle coupling pieces. One middle leg is connected to the left middle coupling piece, the first middle lateral bar, or both. Another middle leg is connected to the right middle coupling piece, the first middle lateral bar, or both. In some exemplary embodiments, additionally or optionally, the middle support includes a second middle lateral bar, such as second middle lateral 156, connected to the left and right middle legs.

Referring to FIG. 2, there is depicted an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. The pivoting/locking mechanism generally includes a first coupling piece, a second coupling piece, and a control unit. The first coupling piece is fixed or to be fixed on a first bar (e.g., a peripheral bar of the first front or rear subsection) and the second coupling piece is fixed or to be fixed on a second bar (e.g., a peripheral bar of the second front or rear subsection). The control unit is operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other.

For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 includes first coupling piece 210 and second coupling piece 220. The first and second coupling pieces are configured to be fixed respectively at proximal ends of two bars (e.g., left peripheral bar 113 and left peripheral bar 115 of the first section, right peripheral bar 114 and right peripheral bar 116 of the first section, left peripheral bar 123 and left peripheral bar 125 of the rear section, or right peripheral bar 124 and right peripheral bar 126 of the rear section), for instance, by welding, bolting or the like. Pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 also includes a control unit, such as control unit 250, operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other, and consequently selectively lock the first and second front subsections or the first and second rear subsections.

The first and second coupling pieces are pivotally connected to each other. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, first coupling piece 210 is formed with a hole such as hole 211 and second coupling piece 220 is formed with a hole such as hole 221. The first and second coupling pieces are pivotally connected to each other by a first rod (e.g., a bolt), such as first rod 241, passing through hole 211 and hole 221. In some exemplary embodiments, first rod 241 is retained on the first and second coupling pieces by nut 243.

In some exemplary embodiments, first coupling piece 210 is formed with a slot such as slot 212 above hole 211 (not necessarily directly above; it can have an offset in the vertical or horizontal direction or in both directions). Slot 212 is elongated in a first direction, e.g., the z-direction in FIG. 2. Second coupling piece 220 is formed with a slot such as slot 222 above hole 221 (not necessarily directly above; it can have an offset in the vertical or horizontal direction or in both directions). Slot 222 has a closed bottom and an open top. Slot 222 of the second coupling piece is shorter than slot 212 of the first coupling piece, e.g., the slot of the second coupling piece has a length in the first direction that is shorter than the slot of the first coupling piece in the first direction. When the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other, slot 212 of the first coupling piece and slot 222 of the third coupling piece are substantially aligned with each other in the first direction.

In some exemplary embodiments, the control unit includes a third coupling piece, such as third coupling piece 230. The third coupling piece is formed with a slot such as slot 231. Slot 231 has a closed bottom and a closed top, and is elongated in the first direction. In some exemplary embodiments, the first, second and third coupling pieces are coupled with each other by first rod 241 passing through the hole formed at the first coupling piece, the hole formed at the second coupling piece, and the slot of the third coupling piece (e.g., the first rod is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the slot of the third coupling piece). Such a connection allows the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other around the first rod. Such a connection also allows relative movement between the first rod and the third coupling piece, e.g., allowing the first rod to move along the elongated slot of the third coupling piece.

In some exemplary embodiments, a second rod, such as second rod 242, is integrally formed or coupled with a top portion of third coupling piece 230, and movable together with the third coupling piece. For instance, in an exemplary embodiment, third coupling piece 230 is formed with a hole such as hole 232, and rod 242 is coupled with the third coupling piece by passing through the hole of the third coupling piece. In addition, the second rod is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the elongated slot of the first coupling piece, and thus is movable along the elongated slot of the first coupling piece.

In some exemplary embodiments, each of the first and second coupling pieces includes a horizontal piece, a first lug at a first side of the horizontal piece and a second lug at a second side of the horizontal piece. The first and second lugs are substantially parallel to each other. In such exemplary embodiments, each of the first and second lugs is formed with a corresponding slot. For instance, first coupling piece 210 includes horizontal piece 213, first lug 214 and second lug 215. First lug 214 is disposed at a first side of horizontal piece 213 and second lug 215 is disposed at a second side of horizontal piece 213. First lug 214 and second lug 215 are substantially parallel to each other. Each of first lug 214 and second lug 215 is formed with slot 212. Similarly, second coupling piece 220 includes horizontal piece 223, first lug 224 and second lug 225. First lug 224 is disposed at a first side of horizontal piece 223 and second lug 225 is disposed at a second side of horizontal piece 223. First lug 224 and second lug 225 are substantially parallel to each other. Each of first lug 224 and second lug 225 is formed with slot 222.

In some exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the third coupling piece is disposed between the first and second lugs of the first coupling piece, and at least a portion of the first and second lugs of the first coupling piece is disposed between the first and second lugs of the second coupling piece. Alternatively, in some exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the third coupling piece is disposed between the first and second lugs of the second coupling piece, and at least a portion of the first and second lugs of the second coupling piece is disposed between the first and second lugs of the first coupling piece.

Referring to FIGS. 3A-3L, there is depicted the use of pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 in foldable frame 100 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. While foldable frame 100 is illustrated, it should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 can be used in other foldable structures as long as the structure includes two bars that can be used to fix the first and second coupling pieces of pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1.

In some exemplary embodiments, pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 selectively allows the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other. Accordingly, pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 selectively allows the first and second front subsections or the first and second rear subsections to fold and unfold.

For instance, when first coupling piece 210 and second coupling piece 220 are aligned with each other and the open top of the slot of the second coupling piece faces downwardly as illustrated in FIGS. 3E-3H (e.g., when the frame is placed upside-down), the gravity pulls down third coupling piece 230 together with second rod 242 to a first position. At the first position, second rod 242 is disposed outside of the slot of the second coupling piece. That is, the second rod is disposed only in the slot of the first coupling piece. As such, at this first position, the first and second coupling pieces are allowed to rotate with respect to each other around the first rod. Consequently, the two bars (e.g., right peripheral bar 114 and right peripheral bar 116) are allowed to rotate with respect to each other, thereby allowing the corresponding subsections (e.g., the first and second front sections) to fold relative to each other as illustrated in FIGS. 3I-3L. In some exemplary embodiments, at the first position, first rod 241 is disposed adjacent to the bottom of the slot of the third coupling piece.

When the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other and the open top of the second slot of the second coupling piece faces upwardly as illustrated in FIGS. 3C and 3D (e.g., when the frame is placed upright), the gravity pulls down third coupling piece 230 together with second rod 242, moving them to a second position. At the second position, second rod 242 is disposed in the slot (e.g., adjacent to the bottom of the slot) of second coupling piece 220. That is, the second rod is disposed not only in the slot of first coupling piece 210 but also in the slot of second coupling piece 220. As such, at this second position, the first and second coupling pieces are restricted from rotating with respect to each other around first rod 241. Consequently, the two bars (e.g., right peripheral bar 114 and right peripheral bar 116) are restricted from rotating with respect to each other, thereby preventing accidental folding of the corresponding section (e.g., the front section) of the frame. In some exemplary embodiments, at the second position, first rod 241 is disposed adjacent to the top of the slot of the third coupling piece.

Referring to FIGS. 4A-4C, there is depicted an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism 200-2 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Like pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1, pivoting/locking mechanism 200-2 includes two coupling pieces, such as first coupling piece 410 and second coupling piece 420. The two coupling pieces are configured to be fixed respectively at proximal ends of two bars (e.g., left peripheral bar 113 and left peripheral bar 115 of the first section, right peripheral bar 114 and right peripheral bar 116 of the first section, left peripheral bar 123 and left peripheral bar 125 of the rear section, or right peripheral bar 124 and right peripheral bar 126 of the rear section), for instance, by welding, bolting or the like. Pivoting/locking mechanism 200-2 also includes a control unit, such as control unit 460, operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other. In embodiments where pivoting/locking mechanism 200-2 is used in foldable frame 100, the control unit is operable to selectively lock the first and second front subsections or the first and second rear subsections.

The first and second coupling pieces are pivotally connected to each other. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, first coupling piece 410 is formed with a hole such as hole 411 and second coupling piece 420 is formed with a hole such as hole 421. The first and second coupling pieces are pivotally connected to each other by a first rod (e.g., a bolt), such as first rod 241, passing through hole 411 of the first coupling piece and hole 421 of the second coupling piece. In some exemplary embodiments, first rod 241 is retained on the first and second coupling pieces by nut 243.

In some exemplary embodiments, first coupling piece 410 is formed with another hole such as hole 412 above hole 411 (not necessarily directly above; it can have an offset in the vertical or horizontal direction or in both directions). Second coupling piece 420 is formed with a slot such as slot 422 above hole 421 (not necessarily directly above; it can have an offset in the vertical or horizontal direction or in both directions). Slot 422 includes opening 423, receiving portion 424, and contraction 424 formed at or adjacent to opening 423. When the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other, hole 412 of the first coupling piece and receiving portion 424 of slot 422 of the second coupling piece are substantially aligned with each other in the y-and z-directions in FIG. 4. In some exemplary embodiments, similar to first coupling piece 210 or second coupling piece 220, first coupling piece 410 or second coupling piece 420 includes a horizontal piece, a first lug and a second lug.

In some exemplary embodiments, control unit 460 includes a bolt, a button, and an elastic member, such as bolt 430, button 440 and elastic member 450. The bolt is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in hole 412 of the first coupling piece, and movable along an axis of the hole of the first coupling piece (e.g., along the x-direction in FIG. 4A). The bolt includes a first bolt segment, such as first bolt segment 431, and a second bolt segment, such as second bolt segment 432. The first bolt segment is larger than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, e.g., the diameter of the first bolt segment is greater than the dimension of the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece in the z-direction in FIG. 4A. The second bolt segment is smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, e.g., the diameter of the second bolt segment is smaller than the dimension of the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece in the z-direction in FIG. 4A.

In some exemplary embodiments, the button is disposed outside of the first and second coupling pieces. In some exemplary embodiments, the button is connected to an end, such as end 433, of the bolt, for instance, by an internal thread formed on the button that mates with an external thread of the bolt. The elastic member is sleeved on the bolt and has an end abutting the first or second coupling piece and another end abutting the button. This holds the first bolt segment of the bolt in a position that aligns with the slot of the second coupling piece in the x-direction in FIG. 4A. As such, when the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other, the first bolt segment is retained in the receiving portion of the slot by the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece (e.g., the first bolt segment cannot pass through the contraction of the slot because it is larger than the contraction of the slot), thereby restricting the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other as illustrated in FIG. 4B.

To unlock the first and second coupling pieces, a user can push the button toward the first coupling piece to move the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece (e.g., along the x-direction in FIG. 4A). This causes the first bolt segment of the bolt to move out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling member, and the second bolt segment of the bolt to move into the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling member. Because the second bolt segment of the bolt is smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, the second bolt segment of the bolt can be removed from the slot of the second coupling piece through the opening of the slot of the second coupling piece. This allows the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other as illustrated in FIG. 4C.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-5D, there is depicted an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism 200-3 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Like pivoting/locking mechanism 200-2, pivoting/locking mechanism 200-3 includes two coupling pieces, such as first coupling piece 410 and second coupling piece 420. Pivoting/locking mechanism 200-3 also includes a control unit, such as control unit 510, operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other. In embodiments where pivoting/locking mechanism 200-3 is used in foldable frame 100, control unit 510 is operable to selectively lock the first and second front subsections or the first and second rear subsections.

In some exemplary embodiments, control unit 510 includes a bolt, a first button piece, and a second button piece, such as bolt 520, first button piece 530 and second button piece 540. The bolt is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in hole 412 of the first coupling piece, and movable along an axis of the hole of the first coupling piece (e.g., along the x-direction in FIG. 5A). The bolt includes a first bolt segment and a second bolt segment such as first bolt segment 521 and second bolt segment 522. The first bolt segment is larger than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, e.g., the diameter of the first bolt segment is greater than the dimension of the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece in the z-direction in FIG. 5A. The second bolt segment is smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, e.g., the diameter of the second bolt segment is smaller than the dimension of the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece in the z-direction in FIG. 5A.

The first button piece is disposed at (e.g., coupled with) the first coupling piece. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the first button piece is coupled to the first coupling piece by first rod 241 that passes through hole 411 of the first coupling piece and hole 531 of the first button piece and by bolt 520 that passes through hole 412 of the first coupling piece and hole 532 of the first button piece. The first button piece includes a first surface, such as first surface 533.

The second button piece is connected to the bolt. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the second button piece includes hole 541 to receive an end of the bolt, and connected to the bolt by pin 511 through hole 524 formed at the end of the bolt and hole 542 formed on the second button piece. The second button piece includes a second surface, such as second surface 543, facing the first surface of the first button piece.

The second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece around the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece (e.g., around an axis parallel to the x-direction in FIG. 5A). In some exemplary embodiments, the first surface of the first button piece and the second surface of the second button piece are configured such that rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece moves the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the first surface of the first button piece or the second surface of the second button piece or both are non-planar, e.g., including one or more ups and/or downs in the x-direction in FIG. 5A. As the second button piece rotates relative to the first button piece, the engagement region between the first surface of the first button piece and the second surface of the second button piece varies, pulling or pushing the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. This in turn causes the first bolt segment of the bolt to move into or out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. When the first bolt segment of the bolt is in the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece, the first bolt segment of the bolt cannot be moved out of the slot through the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, thereby restricting the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other. When the first bolt segment of the bolt is out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece, the second bolt segment of the bolt is in the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece and can be moved out of the slot through the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, thereby allowing the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other.

In some exemplary embodiments, control unit 510 includes an elastic member, such as elastic member 512, sleeved on the bolt (e.g., the stem of the bolt). The elastic member has an end abutting a ridge, such as ridge 523, on the bolt and another end abutting the first coupling piece, the second coupling piece or the first button piece. The elastic member facilitates smooth rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece around the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.

Referring to FIGS. 6A-6C, there is depicted an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism 200-4 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Like pivoting/locking mechanisms 200-2 and 2003, pivoting/locking mechanism 200-4 includes two coupling pieces, such as first coupling piece 410 and second coupling piece 420. Pivoting/locking mechanism 200-4 also includes a control unit, such as control unit 610, operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other. In embodiments where pivoting/locking mechanism 200-4 is used in foldable frame 100, control unit 610 is operable to selectively lock the first and second front subsections or the first and second rear subsections.

In some exemplary embodiments, like control unit 510, control unit 610 includes a bolt, such as bolt 520. That is, the bolt is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in hole 412 of the first coupling piece, and movable along an axis of the hole of the first coupling piece (e.g., along the x-direction in FIG. 6A). The bolt includes first bolt segment 521 larger than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece and second bolt segment 522 smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece.

Control unit 610 also includes a first button piece and a second button piece, such as first button piece 620 and second button piece 630. The first button piece is disposed at (e.g., coupled with) the first coupling piece. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the first button piece is coupled with the first coupling piece by first rod 241 that passes through hole 411 of the first coupling piece and hole 621 of the first button piece and bolt 520 that passes through hole 412 of the first coupling piece and hole 622 of the first button piece. The first button piece includes a first surface, such as first surface 623.

The second button piece is connected to the bolt. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the second button piece includes slot 631 to receive an end of the bolt, and connected to the bolt by pin 511 through hole 524 formed at the end of the bolt and hole 632 formed on the second button piece. The second button piece includes a second surface, such as second surface 633, facing the first surface of the first button piece.

The second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece around an axis substantially perpendicular to the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece (e.g., around an axis substantially perpendicular to the x-direction in FIG. 6A). In some exemplary embodiments, the first surface of the first button piece and the second surface of the second button piece are configured such that rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece moves the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the first surface of the first button piece or the second surface of the second button piece or both are non-planar, e.g., including one or more ups and/or downs in the x-direction in FIG. 6A. As the second button piece rotates relative to the first button piece, the contact region between the first surface of the first button piece and the second surface of the second button piece changes, causing the bolt to move along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. This in turn causes the first bolt segment of the bolt to move into or out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. When the first bolt segment of the bolt is in the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece, the first bolt segment of the bolt cannot be moved out of the slot through the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, thereby restricting the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other. When the first bolt segment of the bolt is out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece, the second bolt segment of the bolt is in the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece and can be moved out of the slot through the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, thereby allowing the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other.

In some exemplary embodiments, control unit 610 includes an elastic member, such as elastic member 512, sleeved on the bolt (e.g., the stem of the bolt). The elastic member has an end abutting a ridge, such as ridge 523, on the bolt and another end abutting the first coupling piece, the second coupling piece or the first button piece. The elastic member facilitates smooth rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece around the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.

Like pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1, pivoting/locking mechanisms 200-2, 200-3, 200-4 can be used in a foldable structure such as foldable frame 100. Description of the use of pivoting/locking mechanisms 200-2, 200-3, 200-4 in a foldable structure is omitted to avoid redundance.

Referring to FIGS. 7A-7G, there is depicted an exemplary foldable bed, generally designated 700, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Foldable bed 700 includes a bed frame, such as bed frame 701, and a bed panel, such as bed panel 702, coupled to the bed frame. Bed frame 701 can be configured the same as or different from bed frame 100. In some exemplary embodiments, bed frame 701 is configured substantially the same as or similar to foldable frame 100. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, bed frame 701 includes front section 110, rear section 120, front support 130, rear support 140, middle support 150, and front and rear adjustable bars 160. In some exemplary embodiments, front section 110 includes first front subsection 111 and second front subsection 112 pivotally connected to each other, and rear section 120 includes first rear subsection 121 and second rear subsection 122 pivotally connected to each other. In some exemplary embodiments, middle support 150 includes left and right middle coupling pieces 151 disposed at left and right sides of the middle support, respectively, to pivotally connect the second front and rear subsections. In some exemplary embodiments, bed frame 710 does not include wires 170 of bed frame 100 shown in FIG. 1A.

As used herein, front section 110 is interchangeably referred to as front frame 110, first front subsection 111 is interchangeably referred to as first front subframe 111, and second front subsection 112 is interchangeably referred to as second front subframe 112. Similarly, rear section 120 is interchangeably referred to as rear frame 120, first rear subsection 121 is interchangeably referred to as first rear subframe 121, and second rear subsection 122 is interchangeably referred to as second rear subframe 122.

Bed panel 702 includes a front panel, such as front panel 710, and a rear panel, such as rear panel 720. The front and rear panels can be but do not have to be identical or symmetric to each other. The front panel is connected to the front frame (e.g., front section 110). In some exemplary embodiments, the front panel, the front frame and/or other components (e.g., the front support, the front adjustable bar, etc.) is collectively referred herein as a front unit. The rear panel is connected to the rear frame (e.g., rear section 120). In some exemplary embodiments, the rear panel, the rear frame and/or other components (e.g., the rear support, the rear adjustable bar, etc.) is collectively referred herein as a rear unit.

In some exemplary embodiments, front panel 710 includes a first front subpanel, such as first front subpanel 711, and a second front subpanel, such as second front subpanel 712. The first and second front subpanels are connected to the first and second front subframes (e.g., front subsections 111, 112), respectively. Similarly, rear panel 720 includes a first rear subpanel, such as first rear subpanel 721, and a second front subpanel, such as second rear subpanel 722. The first and second rear subpanels are connected to the first and second rear subframes (e.g., rear subsections 121, 122), respectively. As such, the foldable bed can be folded at least four-folds. This significantly reduces the size of the folded bed. As such, when folded, the bed requires less storage space and is very convenient to carry around.

In some exemplary embodiments, the second front subpanel has a length (e.g., a dimension in the y-direction in FIG. 7A) larger than that of the first front subpanel, and the second rear subpanel has a length larger than that of the first rear subpanel. When the bed is folded, the distal side of the first front subpanel (e.g., the side not adjacent to the second front subpanel when the bed is unfolded) and the distal side of the first rear subpanel are disposed adjacent to middle coupling pieces 151. The first front subpanel and the first rear subpanel are sandwiched between the second front subpanel and the second rear subpanel.

In some exemplary embodiments, the front panel, the rear panel, the first front subpanel, the second front subpanel, the first rear subpanel, or the second rear subpanel is a unitary piece. In some exemplary embodiments, a unitary piece is made of a plastic, for instance, by injection or blow molding, and referred herein as a monolithic molded plastic panel. The plastic for making such a panel includes but is not limited to high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), or the like. In some exemplary embodiments, each of the first front subpanel, the second front subpanel, the first rear subpanel, and the second rear subpanel is a monolithic molded plastic panel. A monolithic molded plastic panel can be solid or hollow (e.g., including a first panel wall, a second panel wall and a generally hollow interior formed between the first and second panel walls) to reduce the weight of the panel and thus reduce the weight of the bed. A monolithic molded plastic panel can have other features, such as depressions, ridges, or the like, monolithically formed with the panel to enhance the strength of the panel.

In some exemplary embodiments, each of the front and rear panels has a proximal portion. For instance, the front panel (e.g., the second front subpanel of the front panel) includes proximal portion 713 and the rear panel (e.g., the second rear subpanel of the rear panel) includes proximal portion 723. As illustrated in FIG. 1, when the foldable bed is in an unfolded state, the front and rear panels are substantially leveled with each other, with their proximal portions disposed adjacent to each other. In some exemplary embodiments, when the foldable bed is in an unfolded state, there is no visible gap or an insignificant gap between the front and rear panels, between the first and second front subpanels, or between the first and second rear subpanels. An insignificant gap as used herein refers to a gap that is less than 10 mm, less than 5 mm, or less than 1 mm. Moreover, as illustrated in FIGS. 7F and 7G, when the foldable bed is in a folded state, the proximal portion of the front panel and the proximal portion of the rear panel are spaced apart from each other. Along with the upper portion of the middle support, the proximal portion of the front panel and the proximal portion of the rear panel collectively form a groove, such as groove 730.

In the folded state, the folded bed has a thickness, e.g., a dimension of the folded bed in the y-direction and designated “T” in FIG. 7F. The groove has a width, e.g., a dimension of the groove in the y-direction and designated “W” in FIG. 7F. The groove also has a height, e.g., a dimension of the groove in the z-direction and designated “H” in FIG. 7F.

In some exemplary embodiments, the front or rear panel includes a lip extended downward from at least a portion of an outer peripheral edge of the front or real panel beyond the main body of the front or rear panel (e.g., the front or rear panel except the lip). The lip is configured for connecting the front or rear panel to the front or rear frame. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the front panel includes front lip 714 and the rear panel includes rear lip 724. In some exemplary embodiments, front lip 714 includes a first front lip segment 714-1 extended downward from at least a portion of an outer peripheral edge of the first front subpanel and a second front lip segment 714-2 extended downward from at least a portion of an outer peripheral edge of the second front subpanel. The rear lip 724 includes a first rear lip segment 724-1 extended downward from at least a portion of an outer peripheral edge of the first rear subpanel and a second rear lip segment 724-2 extended downward from at least a portion of an outer peripheral edge of the second rear panel.

The front lip is connected to the front frame (e.g., connected to one or more of peripheral bars 113-117 of the front frame) and the rear lip is connected to the rear frame (e.g., connected to one or more of peripheral bars 123-127 of the front frame), for instance, by snapping, interference-fitting, fastening, or the like. The front and rear lips enhance the strength of the front and rear panels and help protect the front and rear frames. Moreover, as illustrated in FIGS. 7C-7E, the front lip creates a space for concealing the front support, and the rear lip creates a space for concealing the rear support. Once folded as illustrated in FIG. 7F, the folded bed is in a form of a general block, with the front, rear and middle support hidden inside and protected by the front and rear panels. As a result, the folded bed requires less storage space and is easy to carry around and transport.

In some exemplary embodiments, a front or rear lip includes one or more notches adjacent to the proximal portion of the front or rear panel. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the front lip includes a left front notch at a left side of the front panel and a right front notch at a right side of the front panel. Both of the left and right front notches are adjacent to proximal portion 713 of the front panel. The left and right front notches can be but do not have to be identical to each other. As a non-limiting example, the left and right front notches are illustrated to be substantially the same, and generally designated 715. Similarly, the rear lip includes a left rear notch at a left side of the rear panel and a right rear notch at a right side of the rear panel. Both of the left and right rear notches are adjacent to proximal portion 723 of the rear panel. The left and right rear notches can be but do not have to be identical to each other. As a non-limiting example, the left and right rear notches are illustrated to be substantially the same, and generally designated 725.

When the bed is in an unfolded state as illustrated in FIG. 7B, the left front notch and the left rear notch are disposed adjacent to each other, and the right front notch and the right rear notch are disposed adjacent to each other. The left front notch and the left rear notch can be but do not have to be the same or substantially symmetrical to each other. Similarly, the right front notch and the right rear notch can be but do not have to be the same or substantially symmetrical to each other. In an exemplary embodiment, the left front notch, the left rear notch, the right front notch and the right rear notch are substantially the same, with the left front notch and the left rear notch substantially symmetrical to each other and the right front notch and the right rear notch substantially symmetrical to each other.

In some exemplary embodiments, each of the left front notch, the left rear notch, the right front notch and the right rear notch is shaped with a curved edge. In some such embodiments, when the bed is in an unfolded state as illustrated in FIG. 7B, the left front notch and the left rear notch collectively form a substantially semicircle or circular segment, and the right front notch and the right rear notch collectively form another substantially semicircle or circular segment.

In some exemplary embodiments, the front or rear panel includes a handle groove to allow a user to place a hand on the bed when folding, unfolding, and/or carrying the bed, thereby making the bed easy to handle. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the front panel (e.g., the first front subpanel) includes handle groove 716 at a distal portion of the front panel, and the rear panel (e.g., the first rear subpanel) includes handle groove 726 at a distal portion of the rear panel to facilitate easy handling of the bed.

Referring to FIG. 8, there is depicted a foldable bed assembly, generally designated 800, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, foldable bed assembly 800 includes a foldable bed, such as foldable bed 700 and a rollable cushion, such as rollable cushion 810. In FIG. 8, the rollable cushion is in a rolled state and disposed at least in part in the groove of the foldable bed in the folded state. The rollable cushion can be detached from the foldable bed. Then, the foldable bed can be unfolded, and the rollable cushion can be unrolled and placed on the front and rear panels of the unfolded bed to ensure adequate comfort. In some exemplary embodiments, one or more of the front panel (e.g., the first and second front subpanels) and the rear panel (e.g., the first and second rear subpanels) are made of a plastic, for instance, by blow molding or injection molding. Molded plastic panel(s) can provide better support for a user to lie down. Moreover, molded plastic panel(s) can be configured based on a human body curve to better fit the human body and accordingly increase comfort. Further, molded plastic panel(s) allows for the use of a relatively thinner cushion or mattress to provide adequate comfort. The rollable cushion can be a pad, a mat, a foam, a mattress, or the like.

The rollable cushion has a width, a length and a thickness. In some exemplary embodiments, the width of the rollable cushion is substantially the same as a width of the front or rear panel (e.g., a dimension in the x-direction in FIG. 7A). In some exemplary embodiments, the length of the rollable cushion is substantially the same as a sum of a length of the front panel and a length of the rear panel (e.g., a dimension in the y-direction in FIG. 7A). The thickness of the rollable cushion (e.g., a dimension of the unrolled cushion placed on the bed and in the z-direction in FIG. 7A) is in a range of from about 2 cm to about 8 cm, from about 5 cm to about 10 cm, or from about 8 cm to about 15 cm.

In some exemplary embodiments, the foldable bed and the rollable cushion are configured such that the thickness “T” of the foldable bed in the folded state is substantially the same as a diameter “D” of the rollable cushion in the rolled state. As such, the folded bed and the rolled cushion can be stored together in an orderly stacked manner, requiring less storage space.

In some exemplary embodiments, the width (e.g., the width “W” shown in FIG. 7F) of the groove is greater than a radius (i.e., half of the diameter “D”) of the rollable cushion in the rolled state. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the width of the groove is at least 1.1 times or at least 1.2 times the radius of the rollable cushion in the rolled state. In some exemplary embodiments, the height (e.g., the height “H” shown in FIG. 7F) of the groove is smaller than the radius of the rollable cushion in the rolled state. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the height of the groove is at most 0.8 times or at most 0.7 times the radius of the rollable cushion in the rolled state. In an exemplary embodiment, the width of the groove is greater than the radius of the rollable cushion in the rolled state, and the height of the groove is smaller than the radius of the rollable cushion in the rolled state.

In some exemplary embodiments, the foldable bed includes the left front notch, the left rear notch, the right front notch and the right rear notch (notch 715, notch 725) adjacent to the proximal portions of the front and rear panels, respectively. In some exemplary embodiments, the left front notch, the left rear notch, the right front notch and the right rear notch is configured in accord with the rollable cushion in the rolled state such that when the foldable bed is in the folded state, the left front notch, the left rear notch, the right front notch and the right rear notch collectively assist in accommodating and holding the rollable cushion. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, each of the left front notch, the left rear notch, the right front notch and the right rear notch of the foldable bed is shaped with a curved edge to abut the rollable cushion in the rolled state when it is placed in the groove. The left front notch, the left rear notch, the right front notch and the right rear notch widen the upper portion of the groove and accordingly provide more space for accommodating and holding the rollable cushion.

Referring to FIG. 9, there is depicted a foldable bed package, generally designated 900, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, foldable bed package 900 includes foldable bed 700, rollable cushion 810 and a box, such as box 910, for housing the foldable bed in the folded state and the rollable cushion in the rolled state and accommodated at least partially in the groove of the foldable bed in the folded state. In some exemplary embodiments, the foldable bed and the rollable cushion are configured such that the thickness “T” of the foldable bed in the folded state is substantially the same as a diameter “D” of the rollable cushion in the rolled state.

The pivoting/locking mechanisms, foldable frames, foldable beds, foldable bed assemblies, and foldable bed packages of the present disclosure are advantageous. For instance, the pivoting mechanisms not only allow each section of a foldable frame to fold and unfold but also prevent accidental folding of each section and enhance stability of the foldable frame. The foldable frames can be folded multiple times (e.g., four times), and are compact with relatively smaller sizes when folded. As such, they require less storage space and are very convenient to carry around. Moreover, molded plastic panels provide comfortable support and allow for the use of a relatively thinner cushion to enhance the comfort. With molded plastic panels and a relatively thinner cushion, the foldable bed and foldable bed assembly are lightweight, simple, easy to use, and practical. Further, by concealing the front, rear and middle supports and/or implementing one or more handle grooves, the foldable bed is aesthetic and portable. Furthermore, with the design of the groove, notches and/or other features disclosed herein, the rolled cushion and the folded bed can be stacked in an orderly manner and can be packed in a box, requiring less storage space and making it easy to transport.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting of the claims. As used in the description of the implementations and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the term “about” is relative to the actual value stated, as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art and allows for approximations, inaccuracies and limits of measurement under the relevant circumstances. In one or more aspects, the terms “about,” “substantially,” and “approximately” may provide an industry-accepted tolerance for their corresponding terms and/or relativity between items, such as a tolerance of from less than one percent to ten percent of the actual value stated, and other suitable tolerance.

It will be understood that the terms “front” or “rear”, “left” or “right”, “top” or “bottom”, “lower” or “upper”, and etc. are used to describe features of the exemplary embodiments with reference to the positions of such features as displayed in the figures. It will be understood that, although the terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first bar could be termed a second bar, and, similarly, a second bar could be termed a first bar, without changing the meaning of the description, so long as all occurrences of the “first bar” are renamed consistently and all occurrences of the “second bar” are renamed consistently.