Reverse-engineered hospital bed design enhances patient accessibility and clinical efficiency

Conventional hospital beds frequently lack of adjustable height features, thereby limiting accessibility for patients and efficiency for medical personnel. The objective of this study is to redesign an electric hospital bed (AP-BED) via reverse engineering to enhance patient accessibility and clinical workflow through the incorporation of a heightadjustment mechanism. The redesign integrates a four-bar linkage system alongside a linear actuator, compliant with ergonomic standards. The process encompasses 3D CAD modeling, mechanical simulation, and validation through interference detection as well as motion analysis. User feedback obtained from patients and healthcare professionals informs critical design modifications. Analytical calculations identify the JS-TGZU3 actuator (with a capacity of 150 kg) as optimal, facilitating smooth height adjustment within the range of 51 to 71 cm. The final model exhibits structural integrity and fulfills all functional requirements necessary for prototyping. This study affirms reverse engineering as a cost-effective and user-centered methodology for medical device innovation, making a direct contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) pertaining to healthcare infrastructure and overall well-being.