GB2642199A

GB2642199A - A bed

Info

Publication number: GB2642199A
Application number: GB2409113.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: John Hodges McDonald Nicholas
Original assignee: Ffold Beds Ltd
Current assignee: Ffold Beds Ltd
Priority date: 2024-06-25
Filing date: 2024-06-25
Publication date: 2026-01-07
Also published as: GB202409113D0

Abstract

A bed 1 comprising a frame including a mounting section 2; a base; and an upright section 4. The base comprises a first section 3 and a second section 5. The first and second sections both have a head end and a foot end, the head end of the first section being rotatably connected to the mounting section, and the head end of the second section being rotatably connected to the foot end of the first section. The upright section has an upper end and a lower end, the lower end being rotatably connected to at least one of the first section and the second section. The bed is movable between a storage position and a use position. The second section has a width, the width at the head end being greater than the width at the foot end. The second section and/or the upright section may have a trapezoidal shape. The bed may further comprise support cables 6. The bed may further comprise a cover (14, Figure 11). The bed may comprise a bed deck (11, Figure 6) and a mattress (12, Figure 7). The bed may be attached to a vehicle.

Description

[0001] A BED

[0002] The present invention relates to a bed, and in particular a bed comprising a covering for providing an isolated and secure sleeping area.

[0003] Temporary sleeping accommodation is required in a variety of situations and locations. For example, temporary sleeping accommodation may be required indoors, such as in a hotel room to increase the capacity of a room, or in a home when a guest stays over. Temporary sleeping accommodation may also be required outdoors, such as when camping.

[0004] The current options available for providing temporary sleeping accommodation involve a number of drawbacks. For example, limited floor space in a room or unsuitable ground conditions outdoors can make deployment of temporary sleeping accommodation that is supported on the ground challenging or not possible in certain locations. Some temporary sleeping accommodation is time consuming to deploy and/or dismantle when no longer needed. Some temporary sleeping accommodation does not provide privacy to a user or shelter from the external environment. Often, temporary sleeping accommodation is not comfortable for a user. Often, temporary sleeping accommodation is difficult to store and transport.

[0005] It would be desirable to provide a bed which overcomes these challenges. In particular, it would be desirable to provide a bed that provides privacy and shelter, and is straightforward to manufacture, assemble, deploy, retract, dismantle, store, and transport.

[0006] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a bed, comprising: a frame. The frame comprises: horizontal sections and upright sections. The horizontal sections are rotatably connected together and the upright sections are rotatably connected to the horizontal sections. The frame is movable between a storage position and a use position, wherein in the use position the horizontal sections form a base of the bed; and upright sections rotatably connected to the horizontal sections. The bed may further comprise support cables. The support cables may extend from the upright sections to the horizontal sections to support the horizontal sections when the bed is in the use position. The bed may further comprise one or more legs. The one or more legs may be removable from the frame. The one or more legs may be rotatably connected to the frame.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a bed comprising a frame. The frame includes: a mounting section; a base; and an upright section. The base comprises a first section and a second section. The first section of the base has a head end and a foot end, the head end of the first section being rotatably connected to the mounting section. The second section of the base has a head end and a foot end, the head end of the second section being rotatably connected to the foot end of the first section. The upright section has an upper end and a lower end, the lower end of the upright section being rotatably connected to at least one of the head end of the first section and the foot end of the second section. The second section has a width, the width of the second section at the head end being greater than the width of the second section at the foot end. Preferably, the bed is movable between a storage position and a use position. When the bed is in the use position: the first section and the second section are arranged end-to-end. When the bed is in the use position, the first section and the second section of the base are arranged endto-end and extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the mounting section. In the use position, the bed frame may be arranged to support a mattress. In the use position, the bed frame may be configured to support a person lying on the base.

[0008] Advantageously, providing a bed frame that is supportable at one end, from the mounting section, may enable the bed frame to be supported or hung off the ground, from one end only. Accordingly, the bed, in the use position, is supported in a cantilevered manner from the head end. Supporting the bed at one end only, off the floor, may enable the bed to be deployed in a variety of locations which would not be possible for a conventional bed supported on the floor on a base or on legs. For example, the bed may be hung from a wall or a pillar, or the bed may be deployed from the back or the side of a vehicle, such as a van. Hanging the bed from a wall may enable the bed to be deployed above furniture and other obstacles in a room which would prevent a conventional temporary bed from being deployed on the floor in the same location. Deploying the bed from the back or side of a vehicle, off of the ground, may enable the bed to be deployed above rough, cold or wet ground which would prevent a conventional temporary bed or tent from being deployed in the same location.

[0009] The bed may have a head end and a foot end. The mounting section of the frame may be arranged at the head end of the bed. The second section may be arranged at the foot end of the bed when the bed is in the use position. Each section of the base of the frame also has a head end and a foot end, corresponding to the head end and foot end of the bed.

[0010] The bed may have a length between the head end and the foot end when the bed is in the use position. The bed may also have a longitudinal axis between the head end and the foot end, which defines a longitudinal direction. The length of the bed is measured in the longitudinal direction. Each section of the base of the frame may have a length between the head end and the foot end, and a longitudinal axis between the head end and the foot end, defining a longitudinal direction. Each upright section may have a length between the upper end and the lower end, and a longitudinal axis between the upper end and the lower end, defining a longitudinal direction.

[0011] Preferably, the longitudinal axes of each section of the frame are aligned. Preferably, the longitudinal axes of each section of the frame are substantially parallel to each other.

[0012] The bed may have a width, between opposite sides. The bed may also have a transverse axis extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, between opposite sides, which defines a transverse direction. The width of the bed is measured in the transverse direction. Each section of the frame of the base may have a width, and a transverse axis, between opposite sides. Each upright section may have a width, and a transverse axis, between opposite sides.

[0013] As used herein, the length of a feature refers to the maximum length or the maximum longitudinal extent of that feature, unless otherwise specified. As used herein, the width of a feature refers to the maximum width or the maximum transverse extent of that feature, unless otherwise specified.

[0014] The bed may have any suitable length for a bed when the bed is in the use position. For example, the bed may have a length of between 1800 millimetres and 2200 millimetres, or a length of between 1900 millimetres and 2100 millimetres. The bed may have a length in the use position of 1800 millimetres, 1850 millimetres, 1900 millimetres, 1950 millimetres, 2000 millimetres, 2050 millimetres, or 2100 millimetres. In other words, the bed may have the length of a conventional small single bed, a conventional single bed, a conventional small double (queen) bed, a conventional double bed, a conventional king size bed, or a conventional super king size bed. The bed may have any suitable width for a bed. For example, the bed may have a width of between 700 millimetres and 2000 millimetres, or a width of between 750 millimetres and 1800 millimetres, or between 900 millimetres and 1600 millimetres. In some embodiments, the bed may have a width of between 800 millimetres and 1200 millimetres. In some embodiments, the bed may have a width of between 1200 millimetres and 2000 millimetres, or between 1200 millimetres and 1800 millimetres. The bed may have a width of about 750 millimetres, about 900 millimetres, about 1200 millimetres, about 1350 millimetres, about 1500 millimetres or about 1800 millimetres. In other words, the bed may have the width of a conventional small single bed, a conventional single bed, a conventional small double (queen) bed, a conventional double bed, a conventional king size bed, or a conventional super king size bed.

[0015] The bed may have a height defined by the length of the mounting section. The bed may have any suitable height. For example, the height of the bed may be between 800 millimetres and about 1500 millimetres, between 900 millimetres and about 1400 millimetres, or between 1000 millimetres and 1300 millimetres. The height of the bed may be about 1000 millimetres, about 1100 millimetres, or about 1200 millimetres.

[0016] The mounting section may be any suitable type of mounting section for mounting the bed frame to a desired support. For example, the mounting section may be configured to mount the bed frame to a vertical surface, such as a wall or a door, to a horizontal surface, such as a piece of furniture or the top of a low wall, or to a vehicle, such as to the roof rack or out of the back of a vehicle. In some preferred embodiments, the mounting section is configured to be secured to a fixed surface.

[0017] In some embodiments, the mounting section comprises one or more hinges. In some embodiments, the mounting section may consist of one or more hinges. The mounting section may be one or more hinges.

[0018] In some embodiments, the mounting section comprises a mounting bracket or a mounting frame. The mounting bracket or mounting frame may comprise one or more frame members. The mounting section may have an upper end and a lower end, particularly where the mounting section comprises a mounting bracket or a mounting frame. In some of these embodiments, the first section of the base may be rotatably connected to the lower end of the mounting section. In some of these embodiments, when the bed is in the storage position, the foot-end of the first section is adjacent or proximate the upper end of the mounting section.

[0019] Each frame section may have a width.

[0020] The mounting section may have a width at the upper end that is substantially the same as the width of the mounting section at the lower end.

[0021] The first section may have a width at the head end that is substantially the same as the width of the first section at the foot end.

[0022] The second section has a width at the head end that is greater than the width of the second section at the foot end.

[0023] Advantageously, providing the second section of the frame with a width at the foot end that is less than a width at the head end may facilitate movement of the frame between the use position and the storage position. In particular, where the bed comprises at least one of support cables and a cover, reducing the width of the second section at the foot end has been found to reduce fouling of the support cables and the cover on the second section, which can prevent movement of the second section between the use position and the storage position.

[0024] In some embodiments, the width of the second section is tapered from the head end to the foot end. Preferably the width of the second section is tapered along the entire length of the second section. However, in some embodiments, a head end portion of the second section is tapered from the head end to the foot end.

[0025] The second section may have a longitudinal axis. Where the width of at least a portion of the second section is tapered, the angle of the taper to the longitudinal axis may be at least 8 degrees, or at least 10 degrees to the longitudinal axis, or between 8 degrees and 40 degrees, or between 10 degrees and 30 degrees, or between 10 degrees and 20 degrees to the longitudinal axis.

[0026] In some preferred embodiments, the second section has a trapezoidal shape. Preferably, the corners of the trapezoid at the foot end are rounded. Where the bed comprises at least one of support cables and a cover, rounding the corners of the second section at the foot end may further reduce the likelihood of the support cables and the cover fouling on the second section when being moved between the use position and the storage position.

[0027] Similarly to the second section, the upright section may have a width, and the width of the upright section at the lower end may be greater than the width of the upright section at the upper 10 end.

[0028] Advantageously, providing the upright section of the frame with a width at the upper end that is less than a width at the lower end may facilitate movement of the frame between the use position and the storage position. Where the bed comprises at least one of support cables and a cover, reducing the width of the upright section at the upper end has been found to reduce fouling of the support cables and the cover on the upright section, which can prevent movement of the upright section between the use position and the storage position.

[0029] In some embodiments, the width of the upright section is tapered from the lower end to the upper end. Preferably the width of the upright section is tapered along the entire length of the upright section. However, in some embodiments an upper portion of the upright section is tapered from the lower end to the upper end.

[0030] The upright section may have a longitudinal axis. Where the width of at least a portion of the upright section is tapered, the angle of the taper to the longitudinal axis may be at least 8 degrees, or at least 10 degrees to the longitudinal axis, or between 8 degrees and 40 degrees, or between 10 degrees and 30 degrees, or between 10 degrees and 20 degrees to the longitudinal axis.

[0031] In some preferred embodiments, the upright section has a trapezoidal shape. Preferably, the corners of the trapezoid at the upper end are rounded. Where the bed comprises at least one of support cables and a cover, rounding the corners of the upright section at the upper end may further reduce the likelihood of the support cables and the cover fouling on the upright section when being moved between the use position and the storage position.

[0032] In some preferred embodiments, the shape of the upright section is the same as the shape of the second section.

[0033] In some preferred embodiments, the size of the upright section is the same as the size of the second section.

[0034] In some embodiments, the width of the mounting section at the lower end, the width of the first section at the head end, the width of the second section at the head end, and the width of the upright section at the lower end are substantially the same.

[0035] The frame sections, when assembled together and arranged in the use position form a bed frame. The bed frame has a base formed from the first section and the second section, which is configured to support a bed deck and a mattress.

[0036] A frame section may be substantially planar. A frame section may form a closed shape. A frame section forms a substantially planar, closed shape.

[0037] Each section of the frame may comprise one or more frame members. Preferably, the one or more frame members of each section form a closed shape, which substantially defines the shape of the section of the frame.

[0038] Preferably, each section of the frame comprises at least two longitudinal frame members and at least two transverse frame members. The longitudinal frame members may extend substantially in a longitudinal direction. The transverse frame members may extend substantially in a transverse direction, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Where a section of the frame comprises two longitudinal frame members and two transverse frame members, the frame members may be arranged to form a quadrilateral shape, such as a square, rectangle, or trapezium.

[0039] The frame members may take any suitable form. Typically, frame members are straight, elongate beams. However, one or more of the frame members may be curved. The frame members may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, the frame members may have a square cross-section, a rectangular cross-section, an H-shaped or l-shaped cross-section, or a circular cross-section.

[0040] The frame, and frame members, may be formed from any suitable materials. Preferably, the frame members are formed from a metal, such as steel, stainless steel or aluminium. However, the frame may be formed from other materials, such as polymeric materials, composite materials, or wood, provided that the material has sufficient strength and rigidity to support the desired load on the bed.

[0041] Preferably, the bed is configured to support a load of up to around 200 kilograms, or up to around 250 kilograms, when the bed is in the use position.

[0042] Preferably, adjacent frame members of a section of the frame are releasably secured to each other. This may enable the frame to be collapsed or broken down into a compact form. Advantageously, breaking down the frame into individual frame members may facilitate transport and long-term storage of the bed by reducing the size of the bed. Additionally, forming each frame section from a plurality of frame members may reduce the size of the dismantled frame.

[0043] Adjacent frame members of a frame section may be releasably secured to each other by any suitable means. For example, the frame members may be releasably secured to each other by screws, bolts or clips.

[0044] In some preferred embodiments, each section of the base of the bed frame comprises at least one inner frame member and at least one outer frame member. The at least one outer frame members of the sections of the base may form the outer perimeter of the base when the bed is in the use position. The inner frame members may be arranged to extend from one side of a section of the base to the other, between the at least one outer frame member. The inner frame members may stiffen the at least one outer frame member and provide support for a mattress arranged on the base when the bed is in the use position.

[0045] The at least one inner frame member may be thinner than the at least one outer frame member. Providing the sections of the base with a thicker outer frame may provide a cavity within the base, between the upper edges of the outer frame members and the upper edges of the inner frame members, which can receive and hold a mattress.

[0046] In some particularly preferred embodiments, the at least one inner frame member is formed from aluminium square box section. The box section may have a width of about 20 millimetres. In some particularly preferred embodiments, the at least one outer frame member may be formed from aluminium c-section, having a width of about 100 millimetres.

[0047] In such particularly preferred embodiments, the base may provide a cavity between the upper edges of the outer frame members and the upper edges of the inner frame members, which is suitable to receive and hold a mattress having a thickness of about 75 millimetres.

[0048] The mounting section of the bed frame may be configured to extend substantially vertically.

[0049] The mounting section of the bed frame may be configured to extend substantially vertically when the mounting section of the bed frame is mounted to a wall. The base of the bed frame may be configured to extend substantially horizontally when the bed is in the use position. The sections of the base of the bed frame may be configured to extend substantially horizontally when the bed is in the use position. The sections of the base of the bed frame may be configured to extend substantially vertically when the bed is in the storage position.

[0050] A section of the frame may be substantially planar. A section of the frame may extend substantially in a plane.

[0051] The mounting section may extend in a plane. The mounting section may be configured to extend substantially in a vertical plane when the bed is mounted, for example when the bed is mounted to a wall.

[0052] When the bed is in the use position, the plane of the first section and the plane of the second section may be arranged parallel to each other. Particularly preferably, when the bed is in the use position, the first section and the second section extend substantially in the same plane. When the bed is in the use position, the base of the bed frame may extend substantially in a horizontal plane. When the bed is in the use position, the first section and the second section may extend substantially in a horizontal plane.

[0053] In the storage position, the mounting section, the upright section, the first section and the second section may be arranged substantially parallel to each other. In the storage position, the foot end of the second section may be adjacent the upper end of the upright section. In the storage position, the upper end of the upright section may be adjacent the head-end of the first section. In the storage position, the foot-end of the first section may be adjacent or proximate the upper end of the mounting section. Typically, in the storage position the foot end of the first section and the upper end of the mounting section are arranged either side of the head end of the second section and the lower end of the upright section. When the bed is in the storage position, the first section and the second section may extend substantially in a vertical plane.

[0054] Where one section of the frame is rotatably connected to another section of the frame, the sections may be rotatably connected about an axis extending in a transverse direction. In other words, the sections may be rotatably connected to rotate the plane of one of the sections relative to the plane of the other section. Where the axes of rotation of the rotatable connections between the sections extend in a transverse direction, the sections of the frame move together in a longitudinal direction when moved into the storage position and move apart in a longitudinal direction when moved into the use position.

[0055] In some preferred embodiments when the bed is in the use position, the upright section extends substantially perpendicular to the base of the frame. In some of these preferred embodiments when the bed is in the use position, the upright section extends substantially vertically. In some of these preferred embodiments when the bed is in the use position, the upright section extends substantially in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the base of the frame. In some of these preferred embodiments when the bed is in the use position, the upright section extends substantially in a vertical plane.

[0056] In some particularly preferred embodiments when the bed is in the use position, the upright section extends above the second section of the base of the frame, towards the foot end, substantially in a direction at an angle of between 30 degrees and 80 degrees from the plane of the second section. When the bed is in the use position, the upright section may extend substantially in a direction at an angle of between 35 degrees and 75 degrees, or an angle of between 40 degrees and 70 degrees from the plane of the second section.

[0057] Adjacent frame sections may be rotatably connected together by any suitable means.

[0058] Preferably, adjacent frame sections are rotatably connected together by a hinge. Where the first section and the second section are rotatably connected by a hinge, the upright section may be rotatably connected to both the first section and the second section by the same hinge.

[0059] The head end of the first section is rotatably connected to the lower end of the mounting section. The head end of the first section may be rotatably connected to the lower end of the mounting section by a hinge.

[0060] The foot end of the first section is rotatably connected to the head end of the second section. The foot end of the first section may be rotatably connected to the head end of the second section by a hinge.

[0061] The lower end of the upright section is rotatably connected to at least one of the foot end of the first section and the head end of the second section. The lower end of the upright section may be rotatably connected to the foot end of the first section. The lower end of the upright section may be rotatably connected to the head end of the second section.

[0062] In some preferred embodiments, the foot end of the first section may be rotatably connected to the head end of the second section by a hinge, and the lower end of the upright section is rotatably connected to the foot end of the first section and the head end of the second section by the same hinge.

[0063] The mounting section of the frame may comprise a third section. The third section may have a head end and a foot end. The third section may extend from the lower end of the mounting section in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the mounting section. The third section may extend in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the mounting section. The third section may be configured to extend in a plane that is substantially horizontal when the bed is mounted, for example to a wall. The head end of the first section may be rotatably connected to the lower end of the mounting section at the foot end of the third section. The head end of the first section may be rotatably connected to the foot end of the third section, such that the head end of the first section is rotatably connected to the lower end of the mounting section.

[0064] Advantageously, providing the mounting section with a third section, and rotatably connecting the first section to the third section, may enable the mounting section, the upright section, the first section and the second section to arranged substantially parallel to each other when the bed is in the storage position. The third section may separate the foot end of the first section from the lower end of the mounting section, which provides a space between the first section and the mounting section when the first section is rotated parallel with the mounting section, into which the second section and the upright section may be received. In other words, the third section may provide a shelf for the base and upright section of the bed frame when the bed is in the storage position.

[0065] In some embodiments, it is envisaged that the bed frame may further comprises at least one leg. The at least one leg may be configured to provide additional support to an end of the base of the bed frame when the bed is in the use position. In particular, it is envisaged that at least one leg may be required where a wall or object to which the bed is mounted is not capable of supporting the load exerted on it by the bed from the mounting section.

[0066] The at least one leg may be configured to extend below the base of the bed frame when the bed is in the use position. The at least one leg may be configured to extend to the floor when the bed is in the use position. The at least one leg may be configured to extend to the wall when the bed is in the use position.

[0067] Where the at least one leg is configured to extend to the wall when the bed is in the use position, the at least one leg may be configured to be arranged at an angle of between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees to the plane of the base of the bed, when the bed is in the use position. More preferably, the at least one leg may be configured to be arranged at an angle of between about 35 degrees and about 25 degrees, or at about 45 degrees to the plane of the base of the bed, when the bed is in the use position.

[0068] The at least one leg may take any suitable form.

[0069] In some embodiments, the at least one leg forms a straight member. In some embodiments, the bed frame comprises a first leg and a second leg.

[0070] In some embodiments, the at least one leg forms an arch extending from one side of the base of the bed frame to the other.

[0071] The at least one leg may be arranged at any suitable location of the base to provide additional support to a region of the base. Preferably, the at least one leg is arranged at the foot end of the second section of the base.

[0072] In some embodiments, the at least one leg is removably connectable to the base of the bed frame. Where the at least one leg is removably connectable to the base of the bed frame, the at least one leg may be connected to the base of the bed frame when the bed is in the use position, and the at least one leg may be disconnected from the base of the bed frame when the bed is in the storage position.

[0073] The at least one leg may be removably connectable to the base of the bed frame by any suitable means. For example, in some embodiments, the leg may be removably connectable to the base of the bed frame by a screw thread connection. The leg may have a screw thread, and the bed frame may be provided with a corresponding screw thread, cooperable with the screw thread of the leg to removably connect the leg to the bed frame. In some embodiments, the leg may be removably connectable to the bed frame by a friction fit. The bed frame may have a cavity configured to receive a portion of the leg, and the leg may have a connecting portion that is configured to be received in the cavity of the bed frame with a friction fit.

[0074] In some embodiments, the at least one leg is rotatably connected to the base of the bed frame. The at least one leg of the bed frame may be rotatably connected to any suitable section of the base of the bed frame. The at least one leg of the bed frame may be rotatably connected to the second section of the base of the bed frame.

[0075] The bed may comprise support cables. The support cables may extend from the mounting section and the upright section to the first and second sections of the base of the frame to support the first and second sections of the base of the frame, when the bed is in the use position. The support cables may extend between the mounting section and the upright section, and the first and second sections to support the foot ends of the first and second sections.

[0076] The support cables are provided to provide additional support to the foot end of the bed when the bed is in the use position.

[0077] Support cables may provide additional structural support, such that the deployed bed, in the use position, forms a cable-stayed cantilever.

[0078] Preferably, at least one support cable extends between an upper end portion of the mounting section and a foot end portion of the first section of the base of the frame. Preferably, at least one support cable extends between an upper end portion of the upright section and a foot end portion of the second section of the base of the frame. Preferably, at least one support cable extends between an upper end portion of the mounting section and an upper end portion of the upright section.

[0079] Particularly preferably, a pair of support cables extend between an upper end portion of the mounting section and a foot end portion of the first section of the base of the frame. Preferably, a pair of support cables extend between an upper end portion of the upright section and a foot end portion of the second section of the base of the frame. Preferably, a pair of support cables extend between an upper end portion of the mounting section and an upper end portion of the upright section.

[0080] The support cables may be formed from any suitable material. For example, the support cables may be formed from metal wire, polymeric materials or natural materials. The support cables may take any suitable form, such as wires, ropes or straps.

[0081] In preferred embodiments, the bed comprises a cover. The cover may extend over the base of the frame when the bed is in the use position. The cover may extend from the mounting section to the second section of the base of the frame, when the bed is in the use position. The cover may extend from the upper end of the mounting section to the foot end of the second section of the base of the frame when the bed is in the use position. The cover may extend over the upright section. The cover may extend from one side of the base of the bed frame to the other side of the base of the bed frame.

[0082] The cover may extend over the frame when the bed is in the use position in the manner of a tent. The cover may provide a substantially isolated sleeping accommodation of a user of the bed. Advantageously, the cover may provide shelter from the elements and a degree of privacy to a user.

[0083] The cover may be formed from any suitable material. Preferably, the material is waterproof.

[0084] Preferably, the cover is formed from a fabric or textile material. The cover may be a sheet. The cover may be formed from a polymeric material, such a polyester or nylon. The cover may comprise cotton or a polycotton material.

[0085] The cover may be provided with at least one of a window and a door.

[0086] A window may provide optional ventilation for the sleeping accommodation. The window may be openable and closable. The window may be removable. The window may be closable and/or sealable with fastening means. The window may be closable and/or sealable with any suitable fastening means, such as zips or hooks and loops.

[0087] A door may provide optional access to the sleeping accommodation. The door may be openable and closable. The door may be removable. The door may be closable and/or sealable with fastening means. The door may be closable and/or sealable with any suitable fastening means, such as zips or hooks and loops.

[0088] The cover may be configured to enable the frame to be moved between the use position and the storage position without removing the cover. This may facilitate movement of the bed between the use position and the storage position. The cover may comprise a gusset at joints between frame sections. Gussets at the joints between frame sections may enable the frame to be moved between the use position and the storage position unrestricted by the cover.

[0089] The bed may comprise a deck. The deck may comprise a plurality of sections, arrangeable on the first section and the second section of the frame to form a beck deck, when the bed is in the use position. The sections of the deck may be configured to abut with each other at intersections between the sections of the frame. For example, a first deck section may abut a second deck section at the intersection between the mounting section and the second section of the base of the frame. The sections of the deck may be configured to move relative to each other while being retained on the frame when the frame is moved from the use position to the storage position. This may facilitate deployment and retraction of the bed, and may also facilitate storage of the bed in the storage position.

[0090] The deck may be configured to extend over the sections of the base of the frame. The deck may be configured to extend over the first and second sections of the base of the frame, from one side to the other, and from one end to the other. Advantageously, each deck section may be supported around the circumference of the deck by frame members.

[0091] In some preferred embodiments, the deck is perforated. In some preferred embodiments, the deck is air permeable. Providing an air permeable or perforated deck may enable convection of fresh air through a mattress supported on the deck to help move heat away from a user lying on the mattress.

[0092] The bed may comprise a mattress. The mattress may comprise a plurality of sections arrangeable on the bed deck when the bed is in the use position. Preferably, the mattress comprises a single section arrangeable on the bed deck when the bed is in the use position. The mattress may be configured to be compressible or deformable. The mattress may be configured to be compressible or deformable such that the mattress may be retained on the frame when the frame is moved from the use position to the storage position. This may facilitate deployment and retraction of the bed, and may also facilitate storage of the bed in the storage position.

[0093] The mattress may be configured to extend over the first and second sections of the base of the frame. The mattress may be configured to extend over the first and second sections of the base of the frame, from one side to the other, and from one end to the other. Advantageously, the mattress may be supported around the circumference of the mattress by frame members.

[0094] When the bed is in the use position, the bed may support a mattress having any typical thickness. However, preferably the bed comprises a mattress having a thickness of between about 100 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, and more preferably about 75 millimetres.

[0095] Advantageously, where the mattress has such a thickness, the mattress may be substantially contained within the outer frame members of the base, and may be sufficiently deformable to be retained in the base when the bed is moved from the use position to the storage position.

[0096] In some embodiments, the bed may comprise a latch or other suitable means for releasably retaining the bed in the storage position. Such a latch or other suitable means may, advantageously, prevent the bed from moving from accidentally moving from the storage position to the use position.

[0097] The bed is configured to be supportable in the use position from one end only. The bed is configured to be supportable in the use position from the head end. The bed is configured to be supportable in the use position from the mounting section.

[0098] The bed may be configured to be mounted to a wall. The bed may be configured to be mounted to a wall at the head end. The mounting section of the frame may be configured to be mounted to a wall.

[0099] The mounting section of the frame may comprise mounting means for mounting the bed to a wall. The mounting section of the frame may comprise mounting means for removably mounting the bed to a wall. The mounting means may comprise any suitable means for mounting the bed to a wall. For example, the mounting means may comprise a bracket, preferably in the form of an elongate hook, extending along the width of the mounting section. The bracket may be configured to cooperate with a corresponding bracket secured to a wall. The corresponding bracket secured to a wall may also comprise an elongate hook. The mounting section may comprise the mounting means at or towards the upper end of the mounting section.

[0100] The mounting section may further comprise one or more feet located at or towards the lower end of the mounting section, the feet being configured to abut a wall onto which the bed is mounted by the mounting means. The one or more feet may enable the mounting section to be arranged substantially vertical when the bed is mounted to a wall. The one or more feet may be adjustable to adjust the angle of the mounting section relative to the wall when the bed is mounted to a wall on the mounting means. The one or more feet may also help to distribute the load of the bed over the wall, when the bed is mounted to a wall on the mounting means.

[0101] The bed may be configured to be mounted to a vehicle. The bed may be configured to be mounted to a vehicle at the head end. The mounting section of the frame may be configured to be mounted to a vehicle.

[0102] For example, the mounting section may be configured to be mounted at the rear of a vehicle, such as a van, wherein the foot end of the bed extends out of the rear of the vehicle when the bed is in the use position. The mounting section of the frame may comprise mounting means for mounting the bed to the rear end of a vehicle. The mounting means may comprise one or more jamming mechanism, such as a telescopic prop, to wedge the frame of the bed against the frame of a vehicle. The mounting means may comprise one or more clamps, to clamp the frame of the bed to the frame of a vehicle. The mounting means may comprise one or more straps for strapping or tying the frame of the bed to the frame of a vehicle. The mounting means may comprise one or more mechanical means for securing the frame of the bed to the frame of a vehicle, such as brackets that enable the frame of the bed to be bolted to the frame of a vehicle.

[0103] For example, the mounting section may be configured to be mounted to a roof rack of a vehicle. The mounting section may be configured to be mounted to a roof rack such that the bed extends from a side of the vehicle when the bed is in the use position. The mounting section may be configured to be mounted to a roof rack such that the bed extends from the rear of the vehicle when the bed is in the use position.

[0104] In some embodiments, the bed may comprise a tyre mount for mounting the frame of the bed to a tyre of a vehicle.

[0105] In some embodiments, the bed may comprise wheel plates configured to be clamped or wedged under the wheels of a vehicle for supporting the frame of the bed using the weight of the vehicle.

[0106] Examples will now be further described with reference to the figures in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of the frame and support cables of a bed in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, wherein the bed is in the use position; Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the frame and support cables of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the frame and support cables are broken down into their constituent parts; Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of the frame and support cables of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is in a position between the use position and the storage position; Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of the frame and support cables of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is in a position between the use position and the storage position; Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of the frame and support cables of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is in the storage position; Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of the frame, support cables, and deck of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is in the use position; Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of the frame, support cables, deck, and mattress of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is in the use position; Figure 8 shows a schematic representation of the frame, support cables, deck, and mattress of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is in the use position; Figure 9 shows a schematic representation of the frame, support cables, deck, and mattress of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is in the storage position Figure 10 shows a schematic representation of the frame, support cables, deck, mattress and cover of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is broken down into its individual constituent parts, for transport and storage; Figure 11 shows a schematic representation of the bed of Figure 8, wherein the bed is in the use position and the cover is arranged over the frame; Figure 12 shows a schematic representation of the bed of Figure 11, wherein the window and door of the cover are removed; Figure 13 shows a schematic representation of a gusset of the cover of the bed of Figure 11; Figure 14 shows a schematic representation of the gusset of Figure 13; Figure 15 shows a schematic representation of the bed of Figure 12, wherein a seal is attached to the cover at the head end; Figure 16a & Figure 16b show schematic representations of the hinges between frame sections of the bed of Figure 1; Figure 16c & Figure 16d show schematic representations of an alternative hinge between frame sections of the bed of Figure 1; Figure 17 shows a schematic representation of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is mounted to a wall in the use position; Figure 18 shows a schematic representation of the brackets for mounting the bed of Figure 17 to the wall; Figure 19 shows a schematic representation of the adjustable feet at the lower end of the mounting section; Figure 20 shows a schematic representation of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is deployed from the back of a vehicle in the use position; Figures 21a-d show schematic representations of the means used to secure the bed of Figure 20 to the vehicle; Figure 22a & Figure 22b show schematic representations of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is mounted to a tyre of a vehicle in the use position; Figure 23a & Figure 23b show schematic representations of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is supported at the side of a vehicle in the use position; Figure 24a & Figure 24b show schematic representations of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is mounted to a roof rack of a vehicle, at a side of the vehicle; Figure 25a & Figure 25b show schematic representations of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is mounted to a roof rack of a vehicle, at the rear of the vehicle; and Figure 26 shows a schematic representation of the frame and support cables of the bed of Figure 1, wherein the bed is in the use position and further comprises a support section for supporting the frame on the floor at the foot end.

[0107] Figure 1 shows a bed 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The bed 1 comprises a frame la, which includes: a mounting section 2, having an upper end and a lower end; a first section 3, having a head end and a foot end; an upright section 4, having an upper end and a lower end; and a second section 5, having a head end and a foot end. The bed 1 further comprises support cables 6, which extend between the mounting section 2, the upright section 4, the first section 3 of the base, and the second section 5 of the base.

[0108] In this embodiment, the mounting section 2 of the frame la comprises a third section 7, at the lower end. The third section 7 is secured to the lower end of the mounting section 2, and extends from the lower end of the mounting section 2 in a substantially perpendicular direction to the plane of the mounting section 2.

[0109] The head end of the first section 3 is rotatably connected to the lower end of the mounting section 2 by a hinge 8. The head end of the second section 5 is rotatably connected to the foot end of the first section 3 by a hinge 9. The lower end of the upright section 4 is also rotatably connected to both the head end of the first section 3 and the foot end of the second section 5 by the hinge 9.

[0110] The frame la is movable between a storage position and a use position. In Figure 1 the frame la is shown in the use position. In Figure 5, the frame la is shown in the storage position. When the frame la is in the use position, as shown in Figure 1, the frame forms a bed frame that is supportable on the mounting section 2. In the use position, the first section 3 and the second section 5 are arranged end-to-end, substantially in the same plane, to form a base of the bed. In the use position, the first section 3 and the second section 5 are arranged in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the mounting section 2, and in a different plane to the upright section 4. In the use position, the upright section 4 extends in a plane that is almost parallel to the plane of the mounting section 2, with the upper end angled slightly towards the foot end of the bed 1. This angle helps to stabilise the upright section 4 in the use position, and stop the upright section from rotating back onto the first section 3. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments the section upright section 4 may extend in a plane that is substantially parallel to the mounting section 2.

[0111] A pair 6a of the support cables 6 extend from the upper end of the mounting section 2 to the foot end the first section 3, one cable at either side of the frame. A further pair 6b of the support cables 6 extend from the upper end of the mounting section 2 to an upper end portion of the upright section 4, one cable at either side of the frame. A further pair 6c of the support cables 6 extend from the upper end portion of the upright section 4 to a foot end portion of the second section 5, one cable at either side of the frame. In this arrangement, the support cables 6 provide support to the foot ends of the first section 3 and the second section 5, and help to retain the upright section in the correct upright position when the bed is in the use position.

[0112] The first section 3 is also provided with stops 10, extending from the underside of the foot end of the first section in a longitudinal direction. The stops 10 extend beneath the head end of the second section 5 when the bed is in the use position. The stops 10 help to prevent the second section 5 from rotating beyond the plane of the first section 5, and provide further support for the second section 5 when the bed is in the use position.

[0113] As shown in Figure 2, each section of the frame la is comprised of individual frame members, which are releasably bolted together to form the frame la.

[0114] The mounting section 2 comprises a pair of first longitudinal frame members 2a, a transverse frame member 2b and a pair of second longitudinal frame members 2c.

[0115] The frame members 2a, 2b, 2c of the mounting section 2 may be bolted together to form a rectangular frame.

[0116] The mounting section 2 further comprises the third section 7, which in this embodiment comprises frame members welded together in a rectangular form. In this embodiment, the third section 7 is not dismantlable into individual frame members, as the third section 7 is relatively small compared to the other frame sections. However, it will be appreciated in other embodiments, the third section may comprise frame members that are releasably bolted together.

[0117] The first section 3 comprises a pair of longitudinal frame members 3a, and four transverse members 3b, 3c, 3d and 3e.

[0118] The frame members 3a, 3b and 3d of the first section may be bolted together to form a rectangular frame, with transverse members 3c, 3d reinforcing the rectangular frame along its length.

[0119] The upright section 4 comprises a pair of longitudinal frame members 4a, and a transverse 25 frame member 4b.

[0120] The frame members 4a, 4b of the upright section 4 may be bolted together to form a trapezoidal frame.

[0121] The second section 5 comprises a pair of longitudinal frame members 5a, and three transverse frame members 5b, Sc and 5d.

[0122] The frame members 5a, 5b, 5d of the second section 5 may be bolted together to form a trapezoidal frame, reinforced along its length by the transverse frame member Sc.

[0123] The mounting section 2 and the first section 3 each have a width that is substantially the same. The head end of the second section 5 and the lower end of the upright section 4 also have a width that is substantially the same as that of the mounting section 2 and the first section 3.

[0124] However, the second section 5 has a width at the foot end that is less than the width of the second section 5 at the head end. As such, the second section 5 is tapered from the head end to the foot end. The taper T forms an angle a with the longitudinal axis L of the second section 5, and the bed frame la, of about 10 degrees. As a result, the second section 5 has a trapezoidal shape. This taper T of the second section 5, from the head end to the foot end, has been found to reduce fouling of the support cables 6 on the foot end of the second section 5, when moving the bed 1 between the use position and the storage position. To further reduce the chances of fouling of the support cables 6, the foot end corners of the second section 5 are rounded.

[0125] The upright section 4 also has a width at the upper end that is less than the width of the upright section 4 at the lower end. As such, the upright section 4 is tapered from the lower end to the upper end. The taper T forms an angle a with the longitudinal axis L of the upright section 4, and the bed frame la, of about 10 degrees. As a result, the upright section 4 has a trapezoidal shape. This taper T of the upright section 4, from the lower end to the upper end, has been found to reduce fouling of the support cables 6 on the upper end of the upright section 4, when moving the bed 1 between the use position and the storage position. To further reduce the chances of fouling of the support cables 6, the upper end corners of the upright section 4 are rounded.

[0126] Accordingly, the second section 5 and the upright section 4 have a similar shape and size to each other.

[0127] The support cables 6 are also removable from the frame. The frame la is provided with anchor loops to which the support cables 6 may be tied, and the support cables 6 are releasably tied to the loops when fitted to the frame la.

[0128] Each pair 6a, 6b, 6c of support cables 6 has a set length determined by the distances between the loops to which the support cable is to be tied when the bed 1 is in the use position. The length of the support cables 6 is configured such that the cables are tight, and under tension, when the bed is in the use position.

[0129] As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 5, to move the bed 1 from the use position to the storage position, first the second section 5 is rotated about hinge 9 towards the head end of the bed 1, to meet the upright section 4. The second section 5 and the upright section 4 are then rotated about the hinge 9 towards the head end of the bed 1, to meet the first section 3. The second section 5, the upright section 4, and the first section 3 are then rotated about the hinge 8 towards the head end of the bed 1, to meet the mounting section 2. In this position, the first section 3 is angled towards the head end of the bed 1, rather than arranged entirely in parallel with the mounting section 2, such that the frame la is stable while in the storage position, and will not move into the use position under the influence of gravity alone, without an additional force being exerted on the first section.

[0130] To move the bed 1 from the storage position to the use position, the steps to move the bed 1 from the use position to the storage position may be followed in reverse.

[0131] As shown in Figure 6, the bed 1 further comprises a bed deck 11. The bed deck 11 comprises five planar sections, 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, which are arrangeable to form a deck of the bed 1 that extends over the entire base of the bed 1, when the bed 1 is in the use position. The bed deck is formed from a hard plastic material that is intended to sit on top of the frame la, without sagging between the frame members when a person is supported on the bed. As such, the bed deck 11 spreads the load of a person supported on the bed across the frame la.

[0132] As shown in Figure 7, the bed 1 further comprises a mattress 12. The mattress 12 comprises three sections, 12a, 12b and 12c.

[0133] As shown in Figures Band 9, the bed deck 11 is configured to be arranged on top of the first section 3, the second section 5, and the third section 7, and the mattress 12 is configured to be arranged on top of the bed deck 11. The bed 1 may be moved between the use position and the storage position with the deck 11 and mattress 12 in position. This may facilitate deployment and retraction of the bed 1.

[0134] As shown in Figure 10, all of the individual components of the bed 1 may be disassembled to form a compact kit, that is easy to store and transport.

[0135] As shown in Figures 10, 11 and 12, the bed 1 may further comprise a cover 14. The cover 14 is arrangeable over the frame la, when the frame la is in the use position, to form an enclosed sleeping accommodation, in the form of a tent. The cover 14 provides privacy for a user of the bed 1, and shelter from the external environment.

[0136] The cover 14 comprises a door 14a and a window 14b. The door 14a and window 14b comprise removable panels, which are securable in place by zip fasteners.

[0137] As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the cover 14 is secured to the frame at the first section 3, and the second section 5 of the base, and at the third section 7. The cover 14 further comprises gussets at the hinges 8, 9 of the frame sections 3, 5, and 7, to enable the frame sections 3, 5, and 7 to rotate relative to each other while the cover 14 is attached. Accordingly, at the gussets, the cover 14 is divided into separate sections 15c, 14d, which are individually securable to their respective frame section, and movable relative to each other.

[0138] As shown in Figure 15, the bed 1 may further comprise a seal element 14e, configured to secure the head end of the cover 14 against a structure on which the mounting section 3 is mounted. The seal element 14e may comprise magnets for releasably securing the head end of the cover 14 to the metallic body and frame of a vehicle.

[0139] The hinges Band 9 are shown in Figures 16a and 16b respectively.

[0140] The hinge 8, which rotatably connects the third section 7 to the first section 3, comprises a pair of first hinge sections 8a secured to the head end of the longitudinal members 3e of the first section 3, one at each side of the first section 3, and a pair of second hinge sections 8b secured to the foot end of the third section 7, one at each side of the third section 7. Each one of the pair of first hinge sections 8a is rotatably connected to a corresponding one of the pair of second hinge sections 8b by a hinge pin 8c. The hinge pin 8c extends in a transverse direction on the axis of rotation about which the third section 7 and the first section 3 are rotatably connected.

[0141] The hinge 9, which rotatably connects the first section 3 to the second section 5, comprises a pair of first hinge sections 9a secured to the foot end of the longitudinal members 3e of the first section 3, one at each side of the first section 3, and a pair of second hinge sections 9b secured to the head end of the second section 5, one at each side of the second section 5. Each one of the pair of first hinge sections 9a is rotatably connected to a corresponding one of the pair of second hinge sections 9b by a hinge pin 9c. The hinge pin 9c extends in a transverse direction on the axis of rotation about which the first section 3 and the second section 5 are rotatably connected. The upright section 4 shares the hinge 9, and in this embodiment, the longitudinal members 4a of the upright section 4 are rotatably connected at the lower end to the pair of hinges 9 by the hinge pin 9.

[0142] An alternative embodiment of the hinge 9 is shown in Figures 16c and 16d, wherein the hinge 9' again rotatably connects the first section 3, the second section 5 and the upright section 4; however, in this embodiment the first hinge section 9a' on the second section 5 is rotatably connected to the second hinge section 9b' on the first section 3 by a hinge pin 9c', and the upright section 4 is rotatably connected to the first hinge section 9a' by a separate hinge pin 9d'.

[0143] Figures 17, 18 and 19 show the bed 1 of Figure 1 mounted to a wall 20 in the use position.

[0144] To mount the bed 1 to a wall, a wall mount 20a may be secured to the wall 20, and a corresponding wall mount 20b may be secured to the upper end of the mounting section 2. In this embodiment, both wall mounts 20a, 20b comprise elongate hooks that extend substantially the width of the bed. The wall mount 20a mounted to the wall is arranged to curve upwards, whereas the wall mount 20b mounted to the bed is configured to curve downwards, in a complimentary manner to the wall mount 20a, such that wall mount 20b hooks securely onto wall mount 20a, as shown in Figure 18a.

[0145] The lower end of the mounting section 2 comprises adjustable feet 20c, which abut the wall 20 and enable the mounting section 2 to be arranged substantially vertical when the bed is mounted to the wall 20.

[0146] Figures 20 and 21a-d show the bed 1 of Figure 1 deployed from the back of a vehicle 21 in the use position.

[0147] To deploy the bed 1 from the back of a vehicle, the mounting section 2 is configured to be mounted at the rear of a vehicle 21, with the foot end of the bed extending out of the rear of the vehicle 21.

[0148] As shown in Figure 21a, the upper end of the mounting section 2 comprises a pair of jamming mechanism 21a, in the form of telescopic props, which wedge the mounting section 2 against the frame of the vehicle 21. As shown in Figure 21b, the lower end of the mounting section 2 comprises adjustable feet 21b to help securely wedge the mounting section 2 against the frame of the vehicle 21 at the correct angle.

[0149] As shown in Figure 21c, one or more straps are also provided for strapping or tying the frame la of the bed to the frame of a vehicle 21. As shown in Figure 21d, one or more brackets 21d are also provided for bolting the bed frame la to the frame of the vehicle 21.

[0150] Figure 22a-b and Figure 23a-b show the bed 1 of Figure 1 deployed from the side of a vehicle 21 in the use position.

[0151] As shown in Figures 22a and 22b, to deploy the bed 1 from the side of a vehicle a tyre mount 22a may be secured over a tyre 22 of a vehicle, with the tyre mount 22a being secured by a frame 22b to the mounting section 2 of the bed 1.

[0152] As shown in Figures 23a and 23b, to deploy the bed 1 from the side of a vehicle, wheel plates 23a may be provided for clamping or wedging under the wheels of a vehicle, and being secured to the mounting section 2 of the bed 1 via a frame 23b and straps 23c.

[0153] Figures 24a and 24b show the bed 1 of Figure 1 mounted to a roof rack 25 of a vehicle 21, at a side of the vehicle.

[0154] As shown in Figures 24a and 24b, to deploy the bed 1 from the side of a vehicle, while the mounting section is supported on a roof rack, the mounting section is required to be in the form of a frame with an upper end and a lower end, and the upper end of the mounting section is required to be rotatably coupled to the roof rack 25 of the vehicle. As shown in Figure 24b, the bed frame may be moved into the storage position while supported at the side of the vehicle by the mounting section. When the bed is in the storage position, the bed frame and the mounting section may be rotated from the side of the vehicle, up and onto the roof rack, such that the entire bed 1 is arranged above the vehicle, when the vehicle is to be moved.

[0155] Figures 25a and 25b show the bed 1 of Figure 1 mounted to a roof rack 25 of a vehicle 21, at the rear of the vehicle.

[0156] As shown in Figures 25a and 25b, to deploy the bed 1 from the rear of a vehicle, while the mounting section is supported on a roof rack, the mounting section is required to be in the form of a frame with an upper end and a lower end, and the upper end of the mounting section is required to be rotatably coupled to the roof rack 25 of the vehicle. As shown in Figure 25b, the bed frame may be moved into the storage position while supported at the rear of the vehicle by the mounting section. When the bed is in the storage position, the bed frame and the mounting section may be rotated from the side of the vehicle, up and onto the roof rack, such that the entire bed 1 is arranged above the vehicle, when the vehicle is to be moved.

[0157] As shown in Figure 26, the bed 1 may be further provided with a ground support 24, for providing additional support to the foot end of the bed when the bed is in the use position. A ground support may be required where the load that is to be supported on the bed is high. The ground support 24 comprises a frame similar to the upright section 4, which is rotatably connected to the stop 10 on the first section 3, and extends beneath the first and second frame sections 3, 5 in the opposite direction to the upright section 4. Support cables 6 are also provided from the first and second frame sections 3, 5 to the ground support 24.

Claims

1. CLAIMS1. A bed, comprising: a frame including: a mounting section; a base comprising: a first section having a head end and a foot end, the head end of the first section being rotatably connected to the mounting section; a second section having a head end and a foot end, the head end of the second section being rotatably connected to the foot end of the first section; and an upright section having an upper end and a lower end, the lower end of the upright section being rotatably connected to at least one of the head end of the first section and the foot end of the second section, wherein: the bed is movable between a storage position and a use position; and the second section of the base has a width, and the width of the second section at the head end is greater than the width of the second section at the foot end.

2. A bed according to claim 1, wherein in the storage position the mounting section, the upright section, the first section and the second section are arranged substantially parallel to each other.

3. A bed according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein in the storage position: the foot end of the second section is adjacent the upper end of the upright section; the upper end of the upright section is adjacent the head-end of the first section; and

4. A bed according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the mounting section has an upper end and a lower end, wherein the first section of the base is rotatably connected to the lower end of the mounting section, and wherein in the storage position the foot-end of the first section is adjacent or proximate the upper end of the mounting section.

5. A bed according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one of: the width of the second section is tapered from the head end to the foot end; and a head end portion of the second section is tapered from the head end to the foot end.

6. A bed according to claim 5, wherein the second section has a longitudinal axis, and wherein the angle of the taper to the longitudinal axis is at least 8 degrees, or at least 10 degrees, between 8 degrees and 40 degrees, or between 10 degrees and 30 degrees, or between 10 degrees and 20 5 degrees.

7. A bed according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second section has a trapezoidal shape, preferably wherein the corners of the trapezoid at the foot end are rounded.

8. A bed according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the upright section has a width, and wherein the width of the upright section at the lower end is greater than the width of the upright section at the upper end.

9. A bed according to claim 8, wherein the width of the upright section is tapered from the lower end to the upper end.

10. A bed according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein an upper end portion of the upright section is tapered from the lower end to the upper end.

11. A bed according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the upright section has a longitudinal axis, and wherein the angle of the taper to the longitudinal axis is at least 8 degrees, or at least 10 degrees, between 8 degrees and 40 degrees, or between 10 degrees and 30 degrees.

12. A bed according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the upright section has a trapezoidal shape, preferably wherein the corners of the trapezoid at the upper end are rounded.

13. A bed according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the shape and size of the upright section are the same as the shape and size of the second section.

14. A bed according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the mounting section has a width, the first section of the base of the frame has a width, and the second section of the base of the frame has a width, and wherein the width of the mounting section at the lower end, the width of the first section at the head end, the width of the second section at the head end, and the width of the upright section at the lower end are substantially the same.

15. A bed according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the bed further comprises support cables, wherein the support cables extend between the mounting section and the foot end of the first section of the base of the frame, and the support cables extend between the upright section and the foot end of the second section of the base of the frame.

16. A bed according to claim 15, wherein the support cables extend between the mounting section and the upright section.

17. A bed according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the frame is movable between a storage position and a use position, and wherein when the bed is in the use position, the first section and the second section of the base are arranged end-to-end and extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the mounting section.

18. A bed according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the mounting section extends substantially in a plane, and the first section and the second section of the base of the frame extend substantially in a plane when the bed is in the use position, and wherein the plane of the mounting section is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the first section and the second section of the base when the bed is in the use position.

19. A bed according to claim 18, wherein the upright section extends substantially in a plane, and wherein the plane of the upright section is not parallel with the plane of the first section and the second section of the base when the bed is in the use position.

20. A bed according to any one of claims 1710 19, wherein the bed further comprises support cables, wherein the support cables extend between the mounting section and the foot end of the first section of the base of the frame, and the support cables extend between the upright section and the foot end of the second section of the base of the frame, and wherein the support cables are configured to be under tension when the bed is in the use position.

21. A bed according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the bed further comprises a cover, and wherein the cover extends over the base of the frame when the bed is in the use position, and optionally wherein the cover extends from an upper end of the mounting section to the foot end of the second section of the base of the frame when the bed is in the use position.

22. A bed according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the mounting section comprises a third section, the third section having a head end and a foot end, and the third section extending from the lower end of the mounting section in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the mounting section, and wherein the first section of the base is rotatably connected to the foot end of the third section.

23. A bed according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the bed further comprises a bed deck supportable on the bed frame, and optionally comprises a mattress supportable on the bed deck.