A flexible hinge device for patient support apparatus

摘要

Apparatus comprising a seat or platform (10) having a flank panel (11) connected pivotally to a lateral margin of the seat or platform (10) by means of a hinge device, wherein the hinge device comprises at least two mountings and a moulding comprising an elongate flexible web (40) bridging mounting formations (41) which are releasably securable on the mountings; wherein one of the mountings is provided on or secured to the lateral margin of the platform (10) and the other of the mountings is provided on or secured to a margin of the flank panel (11) so that the web (40) of the moulding provides a flexible bridge between the platform (10) and the flank panel (11). The mountings are formed with respective elements (30, 36) which interengage when the panel (11) is folded down so as to support the panel.