Patient transfer device with proximity sensor

Abstract

A patient transfer device (101) for transferring a patient placed on a bed sheet (116) or mattress (201) from a first surface to a receiving surface wherein the patient transfer device (101) comprises: at least one retractable traction wire (3); a traction device (107) comprising a motor (103) operatively connected to the traction wire (3) in order to retract the traction wire (3) by means of the motor (103); and a holding device (1) for holding the bed sheet (116) or mattress (201) while moving the bed sheet (116) or mattress (201) and thus transferring a patient placed on the bed sheet (116) or mattress (201); wherein the holding device (1) comprises a holding element (2) to which the first end (8) of the pulling wire (3) is attached, and wherein the pulling device (107) is configured to retract the pulling wire (3) and thus move the holding device (1) and the holding element (2) towards the pulling device (107) so as to move the sheet (116) or mattress (201) towards the pulling device (107) when the holding device (1) is arranged to hold the sheet (116) or mattress (201), the holding element (2) is arranged on the first surface so as to transfer a patient placed on the bed sheet (116) or mattress (201) from the first surface to the receiving surface, and wherein the traction device (107) is provided with a proximity sensor (51, 52) configured to detect whether the holding element (2) has reached an end position at or near the traction device (107).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a patient transfer apparatus for transferring a patient positioned on a sheet or mattress from a first surface to a receiving surface, such as from one bed to an adjacent bed or operating table. Background Art

[0002] In hospitals, nursing facilities, and other environments, there are situations where it is necessary to transfer a patient from one surface to an adjacent surface, such as from one bed to an adjacent bed or operating table. This operation may require the cooperation of several nurses or other professionals to complete manually, or with the aid of a patient transfer device. Patient transfer devices configured to move a patient from one surface to another are well known.

[0003] In particular, a patient transfer device for transferring a patient placed on a removable sheet on a first bed to a second receiving bed is known from patent US2006090258. The patient transfer device comprises: a base; a motor, attached to the base; two strips, connected to the motor, so that the strips can be retracted by means of the motor; and a clamping assembly, releasably attached to the sheet. Thus, the patient transfer device can be arranged on the side of the receiving bed opposite to the first bed and connected to the sheet on which the patient lies. The clamping assembly can then be used together with the motor and the two strips to pull the sheet on which the patient lies from the first bed to the second receiving bed.

[0004] WO9613239 discloses a patient transport system for transporting a patient from a bed to a stretcher or from a stretcher to a bed, the patient transport system being accomplished using a bed sheet and a conveyor attached to the bed or stretcher. The bed sheet is removably attached to the conveyor by a clip arrangement, wherein a flexible band attaches the clip to the conveyor. The conveyor is manually operated by using a handle.

[0005] However, the use of multiple of these devices is often labor intensive, time consuming, and / or ergonomically challenging.Therefore, there is a need for improved patient transfer devices. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present disclosure relates to a patient transfer device for transferring a patient placed on a bed sheet or a mattress from a first surface to a receiving surface, wherein the patient transfer device comprises: at least one retractable pulling wire; a pulling device comprising a motor operatively connected to the pulling wire so as to retract the pulling wire by means of the motor; and a holding device for holding the bed sheet or the mattress while moving the bed sheet or the mattress and thereby transferring the patient placed on the bed sheet or the mattress.

[0007] The holding device includes a holding element to which a first end of a pulling wire is attached, and the pulling device is configured to retract the pulling wire and thereby move the holding device and the holding element toward the pulling device so that when the holding device is arranged to hold a sheet or a mattress, the sheet or the mattress is moved toward the pulling device, thereby transferring a patient placed on the sheet or the mattress from the first surface to the receiving surface.

[0008] Furthermore, the pulling device is provided with a proximity sensor which is configured to detect whether the holding element reaches an end position at or near the pulling device.

[0009] The signal from such a detector can be used to indicate that the patient transfer is complete and that the motor should be turned off to avoid damage to the patient transfer device when the traction wire is fully retracted. For example, if the motor is still in operation and a part of the retaining device is caught at or in the traction device, the motor may be damaged. The proximity sensor simplifies the operation of the patient transfer device and reduces the risk of damage to the device. The sensor signal can be used to generate an alarm signal to draw the user's attention to the situation and / or generate a control signal to stop the motor from operating.

[0010] Proximity sensors can be based on various non-touch technologies in which changes in or presence of electromagnetic fields or electromagnetic radiation are sensed.

[0011] Typically, the patient transfer device comprises two traction wires that are laterally spaced apart and arranged in parallel, wherein the two traction wires can be retracted by the same motor (e.g. via a first reel and a second reel, one for each wire). In this case, the patient transfer device can be provided with a first proximity sensor and a second proximity sensor, one for each wire / holding element. It can then be designed that as soon as one of the proximity sensors detects that the corresponding holding element has reached the end position, an alarm signal and / or a control signal can be generated.

[0012] In one embodiment, the patient transfer device is provided with a control circuit configured to control the operation of the motor in dependence on a sensor signal received from the proximity sensor, wherein the control circuit is configured to stop the operation of the motor when the sensor signal indicating that the holding element has reached the end position is received. The control circuit may include a plurality of connected control units, sensors, etc., and is typically configured to also control other parts of the patient transfer device and to process control signals generated by a user.

[0013] In one embodiment, the proximity sensor is configured to sense the presence or change of an electromagnetic field or electromagnetic radiation beam. The holding element may, for example, be provided with a magnet or iron sheet that can be detected when approaching the sensor. Alternatively, the holding element may be detected by utilizing a change in backscattering of a light source when approaching the sensor.

[0014] In an embodiment, the proximity sensor is configured to sense the presence or changes of a magnetic field, such as a Hall Effect sensor, and wherein the retaining element is provided with a magnet.

[0015] In one embodiment, the retaining device includes a stopper configured to hold the first end of the pulling wire in place relative to the retaining element, and wherein the retaining element encapsulates the stopper. The stopper can be, for example, a sleeve clamped on the pulling wire. In order to prevent the retaining element from getting stuck in a sheet or other component when it moves on the surface of the sheet or other component during the retraction of the pulling wire, it is advantageous to have a rounded shape, a smooth surface and no parts (such as the stopper) protruding from the retaining element. Therefore, it is advantageous to arrange the stopper inside the retaining element, even if the retaining element encapsulates the stopper. The encapsulation also protects the stopper from dust and thus makes the retaining device easy to clean.

[0016] In one embodiment, the retaining element is provided with a first opening, a second opening and a third opening, and wherein the stop device is arranged inside the retaining element at the first opening.

[0017] In one embodiment, the pulling wire extends from the holding element via the first aperture and returns to the holding element via the second aperture so as to form a loop between the first aperture and the second aperture on the outside of the holding element. The wire loop can be used to connect to a knob or the like to hold a sheet or mattress. Therefore, the wire loop can form a part of the holding device (together with the holding element and other parts).

[0018] In one embodiment, the pulling wire extends out of the holding element through the third aperture and further toward the pulling device.

[0019] In one embodiment, the puller wire is free to move relative to the retaining element between the second and third apertures such that the loop of the puller wire is tightened or becomes smaller when the puller wire is pulled out of the third aperture, and the loop of the puller wire is loosened or becomes larger when the puller wire is pulled out of the second aperture.

[0020] In one embodiment, the retaining element comprises a first part and a second part, wherein the first aperture and the second aperture are arranged in the first part, and the third aperture is arranged in the second part, and wherein the first part is arranged to be interconnected with the second part so that the first part and / or the second part encapsulate the stop device when connected. The use of two (or more) parts enables the pull wire and the stop device to be appropriately arranged in the retaining element before the parts are interconnected.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first and second parts of the retaining element are arranged such that a portion of one of the parts is inserted into the other part when the first and second parts are pushed together and connected to form the retaining element, and wherein the first and second parts are provided with a complementary and circumferentially extending pair of snap-locking members that engage when the first and second parts are pushed together and connected. For example, the portion of the second part to be inserted into the first part may be provided with an external flange, and the portion of the first part for receiving the portion of the second part may be provided with a complementary internal groove adapted to receive the flange when the two parts are pressed together.

[0022] In one embodiment, a complementary and circumferentially extending snap-locking member includes a flange and a groove, wherein the flange has an inclined side portion oriented to facilitate passage of the snap-locking member when the first part and the second part are pushed together, and wherein the flange has straight sides oriented in opposite directions to prevent accidental passage of the snap-locking member when the first part and the second part are pushed together and connected.

[0023] In one embodiment, the stop device includes a knot formed by the puller wire and / or a stop member attached to the puller wire.

[0024] In one embodiment, the stop device comprises a sleeve arranged around the pulling wire, wherein the sleeve is clamped on the pulling wire so as to be firmly attached to the pulling wire, and wherein the sleeve has a diameter greater than the diameter of the first orifice over at least a portion of its length. Thus, the end of the wire and the sleeve are fixed inside the retaining element. In order to achieve a firm clamping of the sleeve, the pulling wire can be bent 180° near its end so that the sleeve is arranged and clamped around the "double wire" structure.

[0025] In one embodiment, the holding element is provided with a wire guide channel through which the pulling wire extends, wherein the wire guide channel extends between the second aperture and the third aperture, and wherein a portion of the wire guide channel is formed by a guide tube connected to the first portion and extending toward the second portion. The wire guide channel eliminates or reduces the risk of the pulling wire getting stuck inside the holding element.

[0026] In one embodiment, the retaining element comprises a magnet. This enables the use of, for example, a Hall Effect sensor as a proximity sensor.

[0027] In one embodiment, the magnet is provided with a through hole through which the pulling wire extends. The magnet is preferably arranged inside the retaining element so that the through hole forms a part of the wire guide channel. Using such a magnet and arranging the wire in this way means that the magnet surrounds the pulling wire, which in turn means that even if the pulling wire and the retaining element (around the longitudinal direction of the wire) rotate, when the retaining element reaches the sensor during the wire retraction, some parts of the magnet will always be positioned on the side facing the proximity sensor. This in turn ensures that the magnet will not be positioned too far from the sensor, which may cause the sensor signal to be too weak.

[0028] In one embodiment, the magnet is arranged inside the second part facing the first part of the holding element, wherein the guide tube is adapted to hold the magnet in place when the first and second parts are interconnected. The magnet may be arranged in a recess adapted to receive the magnet. The wire guide tube then holds the magnet in place when the two parts of the holding element are connected. In this case, the wire guide tube has a dual purpose: guiding the wire and holding the magnet in place.

[0029] In an embodiment, the retaining element is made of a polymer material, such as a plastic material or a rubber material.

[0030] In an embodiment, the pulling device comprises a wire reel connected to the motor, and wherein the proximity sensor is arranged in connection with the wire reel.

[0031] The puller wire may be made of a polymer material.

[0032] In one embodiment, the proximity sensor extends through a hole in the housing of the pulling device to be positioned at least partially above the upper surface of the housing. Like this, when the wire is pulled in and the holding element approaches the sensor, the sensor can be in close contact with the holding element.

[0033] In one embodiment, a component such as a wire guide and / or a receiver for a holding element is arranged on top and around the proximity sensor, wherein a recess is provided on the underside of the component, which is configured to provide space for and accommodate the protruding portion of the proximity sensor. The component protects the sensor and can be attached to the upper surface of the housing. The component can also hold the holding element in an end position.

[0034] The wire loop can be connected to a mattress member or a sheet member. The mattress member can, for example, include a mattress holder provided with an opening, wherein the mattress holder is attached to the mattress. The mattress member can also include a hook and loop member, such as a carbine hook, which is attached to the opening in a releasable manner. In this example, the wire loop of the retaining device can be connected to the carbine hook, i.e. the carbine hook can pass through the loop. Therefore, the retaining device is suitable for retaining the mattress via the mattress member.

[0035] The sheet member may for example comprise a rod with one or more knobs. In this example, the ring of the retaining device may be connected to the knob with the sheet arranged between the knob and the ring. Thus, the retaining device is suitable for retaining the sheet via the sheet member.

[0036] The holding device enables a quick and reliable attachment of a bed sheet or mattress. When the holding device is connected to the knob to hold the bed sheet in place between the knob and the holding device, a patient lying on the bed sheet on the bed can be transferred from a first surface of the bed to a receiving surface by using a pulling device. Similarly, when the holding device is connected to a mattress member attached to the mattress, a patient lying on the mattress can be transferred from a first surface of the bed to a receiving surface by using a pulling device. The receiving surface can be another bed, or can be, for example, a resting surface in an X-ray or computed tomography (CT) machine or a resting surface in a preparation room for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

[0037] When the patient is located next to the receiving surface, the holding device is easily attached to the knob with the bed sheet between the holding device and the knob, and during the transfer of the patient, the holding device holds the bed sheet in a secure manner. After the patient is transferred, the holding device can be easily detached from the knob and the bed sheet.

[0038] Similarly, when the patient is located beside the receiving surface, the holding device is easily attached to the mattress member, and during the transfer of the patient, the holding device holds the mattress in a secure manner. After the patient is transferred, the holding device can be easily removed from the mattress member.

[0039] The holding arrangement of the present disclosure is also useful in situations where the patient holding device is not provided with any proximity sensors.

[0040] The size of the ring of the retaining device is reconfigurable, which provides flexibility in that the retaining device can be used with sheet components or mattress components of different sizes without modification. For example, when a sheet is attached to the retaining device, there is a high probability that the sheet will not be folded evenly on the knob. Therefore, the retaining device can be advantageously used to retain sheets of different materials and thicknesses, which can be folded in different ways, thereby providing different effective diameters of the knob and sheet combination. In addition, the shapes of the contact surfaces between the ring and the knob preferably correspond to each other to achieve a form fit, thereby expanding the contact surface with the sheet. The larger contact surface reduces the wear and stress that occurs on the sheet and prevents the retaining device from slipping or tearing the sheet.

[0041] The disclosed holding device comprises a few parts that are easy to manufacture and easy to clean.

[0042] According to some aspects, the stop device includes a knot formed by the pull wire. The knot can be arranged, for example, to not pass through the first orifice. Therefore, the knot firmly holds the first end of the pull wire in place relative to the first orifice. The knot does not require any additional parts / materials, which is an advantage. Alternatively or in combination, the stop device can include a stop member arranged to be attached to the pull wire. The stop member can be, for example, a clamp that is deformed and attached to the pull wire. In addition, the stop device can be integrated in the first part. For example, the first orifice can include teeth that are arranged so that the pull wire can only be pulled in the first direction and passed through. When the pull wire is pulled in a direction opposite to the first direction, the teeth lock the pull wire in place.

[0043] According to some aspects, the retaining element has a rounded shape. In this way, less dust may accumulate on the retaining element. For example, the first portion and the second portion may have corresponding truncated cone shapes that extend from the third aperture along the extension direction of the pulling wire. In addition, the retaining element preferably has a rounded shape so as to provide less friction when the retaining element slides over a surface. The rounded shape further reduces the wear caused to the surface over which the retaining element slides (such as surrounding mattresses, sheets, and plastic materials).

[0044] According to some aspects, the first portion is provided with a front surface, wherein the first aperture and the second aperture are arranged on the front surface. The first surface may be provided with a projection, which is arranged between the first aperture and the second aperture and is arranged to extend from the first surface. The projection is configured to provide a gap between the pull wire and the front surface when the ring is in the minimum possible configuration (i.e., when the second end of the pull wire is pulled away from the retaining device when the retaining device is not engaged with the knob or the hook and loop member). When the retaining device is not engaged with the sheet member or the mattress member, the projection makes it easier to grasp the pull wire, thereby facilitating the use of the retaining device.

[0045] According to some aspects, the pulling device comprises a receiving member configured to receive the holding element, wherein the receiving member has a shape complementary to the holding element. This provides a device in which the holding element can be received after the holding element has been pulled to the maximum extent towards the patient transfer device. In particular, the receiving member can be arranged to be connected to a reel connected to the second end of the pulling wire.

[0046] According to some aspects, the patient transfer device is mounted on a frame provided with wheels.In this way, the patient transfer device can be easily moved around and repositioned.

[0047] According to some aspects, the sheet pulling device is mounted on the frame in a height-adjustable manner. In this way, the patient transfer device can be adapted to different heights.

[0048] According to some aspects, the patient transfer device is mounted on an adjustable wall-mounted arm.

[0049] Also disclosed herein is a system comprising a patient transfer apparatus according to the above discussion and a sheet member and / or a mattress member arranged to be attachable to a mattress.

[0050] According to some aspects, a mattress member is provided with an opening and a hook and loop member, wherein the hook and loop member is releasably attached to the opening and a retention device is connectable to the hook and loop member.

[0051] According to some aspects, the sheet member is provided with at least one knob, wherein a retaining device is connectable to the sheet member so as to hold the sheet in place between the knob and the retaining device when connected. The sheet member can be securely attached to the sheet. Thus, a patient placed on the sheet can be safely transferred.

[0052] According to some aspects, the sheet member is an elongated member extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the sheet member comprises two knobs arranged at a distance from each other in the longitudinal direction, and wherein the knobs are arranged to extend in the longitudinal direction. This provides a sheet member that is easy to manufacture and facilitates pulling the sheet in a straight manner.

[0053] According to some aspects, the knob comprises a head and a handle, wherein the handle has a circular cross-section and wherein the head is larger than the handle. According to some other aspects, the handle comprises a rounded groove extending in a circumferential direction. This enables the attachment device to be quickly and securely attached to the knob.

[0054] Generally, unless otherwise clearly defined herein, all terms used in the claims should be interpreted according to their ordinary meanings in the technical field. Unless otherwise clearly stated, all references to "one / an / the element, device, component, device, step, etc." should be openly interpreted as referring to at least one example of the element, device, component, device, step, etc. Unless clearly stated, the steps of any method disclosed herein do not have to be performed in the exact order disclosed. When studying the attached claims and the following description, other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent. It should be understood by the technician that the different features of the present disclosure can be combined to form embodiments other than the embodiments described below without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] The embodiments of the present disclosure cited as examples will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0056] Figure 1 shows a patient transfer device,

[0057] Figure 2 shows the knob,

[0058] Figure 3 The holding device is shown,

[0059] Figure 4 shows the various parts of a holding element used in a holding device,

[0060] Figure 5 A portion of the pulling wire is shown,

[0061] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a holding element in which a pulling wire is arranged,

[0062] Figure 7a and Figure 7b showing different views of a first portion of a retaining element,

[0063] Figure 8a and Figure 8b showing different views of the second part of the retaining element,

[0064] Figure 9a shows the knob,

[0065] Figure 9b The knob with the sheet is shown,

[0066] Fig.9c shows the retaining device before being set in the locked state,

[0067] Figure 9d shows the retaining device in a locked state,

[0068] Fig.10a and Fig.10b Shows the use of Figure 1 a view of a patient transfer device in FIG. 1 transferring a patient from a first surface to a receiving surface,

[0069] Fig.11 Another example of a patient transfer device is shown.

[0070] Fig.12 Another patient transfer device is shown,

[0071] Fig.13 The retaining device and the mattress member are shown,

[0072] Fig.14a A sheet member with a knob is shown,

[0073] Fig.14b A sheet member with a sheet is shown,

[0074] Fig.14c shows the retaining device before being set in a locked state; and

[0075] Fig.14d The retaining device is shown in the locked state.

[0076] Figure 15 to Figure 16 An example of placement of a proximity sensor on a patient transfer device is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] The present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which certain aspects of the present disclosure are shown. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments and aspects set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example so that the present disclosure will be comprehensive and complete and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Throughout the description, the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0078] It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described herein and shown in the drawings; rather, the skilled artisan will recognize that numerous changes and modifications are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

[0079] Figure 1The patient transfer device 101 shown in the example shown comprises a holding device 1, a pulling device 107 and a frame 102 to which the pulling device 107 is attached. The frame 102 is arranged to be placed on a horizontal surface, such as a floor, and is provided with wheels 105 for moving the patient transfer device 101 on the surface. The pulling device 107 comprises: a motor 103, connected to two reels 108; and an outer housing 104, which covers the motor 103 and the reels 108 and protects the motor and the reels from contamination, which is caused by contact with dust or body fluids of patients who are transferred using the patient transfer device 101. The outer housing can be completely detachable or can be attached with a hinge so that the outer housing can be opened when the reels are to be cleaned or replaced. The housing can be provided with pads attached to the outer housing in a detachable manner so that these pads can be removed from the outer housing.

[0080] The patient transfer device 101 shown comprises means for vertically adjusting the position of the traction device 107. This may be, for example, an electric motor (not shown) arranged in the frame 102, which can move the traction device 107 along a vertical rail 106 or groove in the frame 102.

[0081] The motor 103 is coupled to two laterally spaced reels 108 that are used when pulling the patient from the first surface to the receiving surface. When the pulling wire 3 is retracted, the laterally spaced first and second pulling wires 3 are wound on the corresponding reels 108, which is accomplished by operating the motor 103 and rotating the reels 108. Each reel 108 is mechanically connected to the motor 103, i.e., directly connected to the motor or directly connected to a shaft driven by the motor. The holding element 2 (at Figure 3 The retaining device is adapted to be releasably attached to a corresponding knob 14 arranged on a sheet member 17 by means of a loop pulling the wire 3, which in this example is an elongated connecting member. In other words, the sheet member can be provided with at least one knob, and the retaining device can be connected to the sheet member so as to hold the sheet in place between the knob and the retaining device when connected. The retaining device is also adapted to be releasably attached to a mattress member, which is attached to a removable mattress. The mattress member will not be discussed in further detail below.

[0082] Figure 10a to Figure 10b A perspective view is shown of a patient 117 being transferred from a first surface 113 (a first bed in the example shown) to a receiving surface 114 (a receiving bed 115 in the example shown) using the patient transfer device 101. Fig.10aIn the embodiment, the patient 117 lies on the sheet 116 on the first bed, and the holding device 1 of the patient transfer device 101 is connected to the sheet. The receiving bed 115 is arranged side by side with the first bed, and the patient transfer device 101 is arranged on the side of the receiving bed opposite to the first bed. Fig.10b , the motor 103 of the patient transfer device 101 retracts the holding element 2 toward the patient transfer device 101 and the receiving bed 115. This exerts a pulling force on the sheet 116 on which the patient 117 lies. Thus, the patient 117 is transferred from the first surface 113 to the receiving surface 114.

[0083] Fig.12 Shown according to Figure 1 The patient transfer device of the present invention is a patient transfer device in which the sheet member 17 is replaced by a mattress member 202. The mattress member 202 is attached to a movable mattress 201. The movable mattress can be, for example, a foam mattress. Fig.12 In the embodiment, the mattress member includes a mattress holder 203 and two hook and loop members 205. The mattress holder is provided with five openings 204. However, in general, the mattress member can be provided with any number of openings and hook and loop members. In particular, each carabineer constitutes Fig.12 The carabiner hook is a type of carabiner hook and includes a loop with a spring-loaded door. The loop of the carabiner hook typically comprises metal. Two retaining devices are releasably attached to the respective carabiner hooks. These carabiner hooks are releasably attached to the respective openings in the mattress retainer 203. The mattress retainer may include fabric. The fabric may be sewn to the removable mattress. The mattress retainer may alternatively include a harder material, such as plastic. The mattress retainer may also be attached to the removable mattress by other means, such as adhesives, screws, etc.

[0084] exist Fig.12 , the patient transfer device 101 transfers the movable mattress 201 from the first surface of the first bed to the receiving surface of the receiving bed 115. The receiving bed 115 is arranged side by side with the first bed, and the patient transfer device 101 is arranged on the side of the receiving bed opposite to the first bed. The motor 103 of the patient transfer device 101 retracts the holding element 2 toward the patient transfer device 101 and the receiving bed 115. This applies a pulling force to the movable mattress 201 on which the patient lies. Therefore, the patient can be transferred from the first surface to the receiving surface.

[0085] The openings 204 of the mattress holder 203 are arranged in a spaced-apart manner. Fig.12In the example shown in , the distance between the two openings corresponds to the distance between the reels of the pulling device 107. This allows the pulling device 107 to pull the holding device in a straight line. The mattress holder 203 can distribute the load caused by pulling the mattress on which the patient lies to the two wires 3. The patient transfer device is preferably arranged so that the pulling force acting on the mattress is parallel to the pulling wire 3 of the pulling device. Therefore, the holding device will not be misplaced during the transfer of the patient.

[0086] The sheet member 17 (e.g. Figure 1 ) can be a rigid rod or can be a flexible wire of some type. In the example shown, a rod is used as a sheet member. The knobs are mounted on the rod in a spaced manner, and in the example shown, the distance between the knobs corresponds to the distance between the reels of the pulling device 107. This allows the pulling device 107 to pull the holding device in a straight line. The rod can be provided with more than two knobs, depending on, for example, the length of the rod or the size of the sheet. The rod can distribute the load generated by pulling the sheet on which the patient lies to two wires 3. In the example shown, the rod is provided with two knobs, which are arranged at the ends of the rod. The rod or wire can also simplify the handling of the holding device, for example, allowing two wires 3 to be unwound from the corresponding reels 108 at the same time. The sheet member also ensures that the distance between the two knobs corresponds to the distance between the attachment points of the pulling wire for the pulling device. The patient transfer device is preferably arranged so that the pulling force acting on the sheet is parallel to the pulling wire 3 of the pulling device. Therefore, the holding device cannot be misplaced during the transfer of the patient.

[0087] Fig.11 A perspective view of a patient transfer device according to another aspect of the present disclosure is shown. In this figure, the pulling device 107 of the patient transfer device 101 is mounted on an adjustable movable arm 111, which is mounted to a wall 112. It should be understood that the movable arm 111 can alternatively extend from a ceiling mount, rather than from a wall mount, and the number of joints on the arm can vary. In the example shown, the sheet member 17 is a longer rod than the previous example and includes five knobs 14. As described above, the two knobs are arranged so that the distance between them corresponds to the distance between the reels of the pulling device 107. This allows the pulling device 107 to pull the retaining element in a straight line. There is a knob provided between the two knobs for pulling the retaining element, and two knobs are provided at the outer ends of the rod. Using more knobs can more evenly distribute the load on the sheet, which may be advantageous when transferring heavier patients.

[0088] Fig.14aAnother example of a sheet member 17 is shown. In this figure, the sheet member is an elongated member extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the sheet member comprises two knobs arranged at a distance from each other in the longitudinal direction, and wherein the knobs are arranged to extend in the longitudinal direction. This provides a sheet member that is easy to manufacture and facilitates pulling the sheet in a straight line.

[0089] The pull wire is preferably a wire that is easy to clean and does not interfere with other facilities in the hospital environment. Therefore, the pull wire is preferably made of a synthetic material such as polyester and / or Dyneema (Dyneema, Dyneema wire).

[0090] like Figure 1 As shown in , the pulling device 107 is provided with a first and a second proximity sensor 51, 52, one for each wire / holding element / reel, which are configured to detect whether the corresponding holding element 2 has reached an end position close to the corresponding reel 108 at the outer housing 104. In this example, the proximity sensors 51, 52 are Hall effect sensors capable of sensing the presence of a magnet 6 arranged in the holding element 2. The exact location of the proximity sensors 51, 52 depends on the specific design of the patient transfer device 101, for example.

[0091] like Figure 1 As further shown in FIG. 1 , the patient transfer device 101 is provided with a control circuit 53 configured to control, for example, the operation of a motor 103 according to sensor signals received from the proximity sensors 51, 52. The control circuit 53 is also configured to stop the operation of the motor 103 when a sensor signal indicating that any holding element 2 has reached an end position (i.e., any holding element 2 has been located close to its corresponding proximity sensor 51, 52) is received. This is a protective function to avoid that the pulling wire 3 is retracted too much so that, for example, the holding element 2 is stuck, thereby possibly damaging the motor 103. Before any holding element 2 reaches its end position, the user can manually stop the operation of the motor 103.

[0092] Figures 3 to 8b The structure of the holding element 2 and the arrangement of the pull wire 3 on the holding element 2 are shown.

[0093] The holding device 1 comprises a stopper 7, which is configured to hold the first end 8 of the pulling wire 3 in place relative to the holding element 2. The holding element 2 encapsulates the stopper 7. The holding element 2 is provided with a first aperture, a second aperture and a third aperture 9, 10, 12, and the stopper 7 is arranged at the first aperture 9 inside the holding element 2. The pulling wire 3 extends out of the holding element 2 via the first aperture 9 and returns to the holding element 2 via the second aperture 10, so as to form a wire loop between the first aperture and the second aperture 9, 10 outside the holding element 2. The pulling wire 3 extends out of the holding element 2 via the third aperture 12 and further extends toward the pulling device 107. The pulling wire 3 is free to move between the second and third orifices 10, 12 relative to the retaining element 2, so that when the pulling wire 3 is pulled out of the third orifice (12), the loop of the wire 3 can be tightened or reduced, and when the pulling wire 3 is pulled out of the second orifice 10, the loop of the pulling wire 3 can be loosened or enlarged.

[0094] In this example, the stop means 7 comprises a sleeve arranged around the bent / folded end of the puller wire 3, wherein the sleeve is clamped on the puller wire 3 so as to be firmly attached to the puller wire. The diameter of the sleeve at least at its end portion is greater than the diameter of the first aperture 9, thereby preventing the sleeve from being loosened from the retaining element 2.

[0095] In order to allow the wire 3 to be installed in the holding element 2, the holding element 2 comprises a first connectable part and a second connectable part 4, 5. The first and second apertures 9, 10 are arranged in the first part 4, and the third aperture 12 is arranged in the second part 5. The two parts 4, 5 completely enclose the stop device 7 when connected. Before connecting the two parts 4, 5, the wire 3 can be arranged in the holding element 2.

[0096] The first and second parts 4, 5 of the retaining element 2 are arranged so that a portion of one of the parts (in this example the second part 5) is inserted into the other part (in this example the first part 4) when the two parts are pushed together and connected to form the retaining element 2. The first and second parts 4, 5 are provided with a pair of complementary and circumferentially extending snap-locking members 61, 62 which engage when the first and second parts 4, 5 are pushed together and connected. This can be arranged in other ways, for example, the retaining element 2 can be alternatively designed so that a portion of the first part 4 is inserted into the second part 5.

[0097] like Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 7a and Figure 8bAs shown in the example, the complementary and circumferentially extending snap-locking members include a flange 61 arranged on the second part 5 and a groove 62 arranged on the first part 4. The flange 61 has an inclined side oriented towards the first part 4 so as to facilitate the passage of the snap-locking members 61, 62 when the first part 4 and the second part 5 are pushed together. In addition, the flange 61 has a straight side oriented in the opposite direction (away from the first part 4) so ​​as to prevent the snap-locking members 61, 62 from accidentally passing when the first and second parts 4, 5 are pushed together and connected. All in all, this simplifies the process of connecting the two parts and provides a secure connection.

[0098] like Figure 6 As shown in FIG, the holding element 2 is provided with a wire guide channel between the second and third apertures 10, 12, through which the pulling wire 3 extends. A portion of the wire guide channel is formed by a guide tube 11 connected to the first portion 4 and extending toward the second portion 5.

[0099] The magnet 6 arranged in the holding element 2 is provided with a through hole through which the pulling wire 3 extends. The through hole forms part of the wire guide channel. The magnet 6 is arranged inside the second part 5 in a recess facing the first part 4 of the holding element 2. The guide tube 11 is adapted to hold the magnet 6 in place when the first and second parts 4, 5 are interconnected.

[0100] When attached to the knob, the ring is first placed in an expanded configuration with a diameter greater than the diameter of the knob. The ring is then placed around the knob with the sheet between the ring and the knob. The ring is then tightened by pulling the wire away from the retaining element and the knob. This causes the ring to decrease in diameter and locks the retaining device in place relative to the sheet and the knob.

[0101] Similarly, when connecting to a carbine hook, the loop is first arranged in an expanded configuration so that the carbine hook can pass through the loop. After the carbine hook passes through the loop, the loop is tightened by pulling the wire away from the retaining element and the carbine hook. This causes the diameter of the loop to decrease and locks the retaining device in place relative to the carbine hook. Fig.13 Shown is a view of a retaining device attached to a carabineer hook which in turn is attached to an opening of a mattress retainer.

[0102] The first and second parts 4, 5 can be connected in different ways. Figure 6And in the exemplary retaining device shown in Figures 7 to 8, the first part 4 includes a first edge 19, and the second part 5 includes a second edge 13. The circumference of the second edge is smaller than the circumference of the first edge, and the second part can be press-fitted into the first part. In the example shown, a snap-on locking function is added. Each edge can be threaded alternatively, and the two parts can be screwed together. The two parts can also be held together by one or more screws, bolts or the like. Preferably, the two parts are releasably attached to each other.

[0103] When the first part 4 and the second part 5 are interconnected, they enclose the stop device 7. In other words, one or both parts surround the stop device. The stop device is thus surrounded by the inner volume defined by the first part and / or the second part.

[0104] Cleanliness is an important aspect for any device used in a hospital environment or similar environment. The disclosed holding device 1 comprises a few simple parts, which are easy to manufacture and easy to clean. The stop device 7 may be a place where dust accumulates. In addition, cleaning the stop device may be difficult. Therefore, the encapsulation of the stop device makes the disclosed holding device easy to clean.

[0105] The size of any orifice in the first orifice 9, the second orifice 10 and the third orifice 12 can be set so that the pulling wire 3 fits tightly in the orifice. For example, the diameter of the orifice can be 10% larger than the diameter of the pulling wire. In this way, the amount of dust entering the inside of the holding element 2 is reduced. Optionally, one or more orifices include a gasket or a seal, which further seals any space around the pulling wire until the inner surface of the orifice. This seal can be a brush seal. In addition, since the first end 8 of the pulling wire remains in place relative to the first orifice 9, the first orifice can be configured to make the pulling wire more closely fit in the orifice compared with other orifices. The second orifice 10 and the third orifice 12 are preferably configured so that the pulling wire can extend through these orifices relatively unhindered, thereby making the ring can become larger or smaller.

[0106] The retaining element 2 preferably has a rounded shape. In this way, less dust may accumulate on the retaining element. The rounded shape further reduces the wear caused to the surfaces over which the retaining element slides, such as surrounding mattresses, sheets and plastic materials. Figure 3 In the exemplary retaining element of the embodiment, the first portion 4 and the second portion have corresponding truncated cone shapes, which extend from the third aperture 12 in the extension direction of the pulling wire 3. In addition, the retaining element 2 preferably has a rounded shape to provide less friction when the retaining element slides over a surface. In addition, the first portion may include a flat portion 23, such as Figure 7bAs shown in the example in , these flat portions also provide lower friction. These flat portions are arranged at an angle relative to the extension direction of the pulling wire when extending from the third orifice.

[0107] The patient transfer device 101 disclosed herein may include a pulling device 107 provided with a receiving member (not shown) configured to receive the holding element 2, wherein the receiving member has a shape complementary to the second portion 5 of the holding element 2. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the respective receiving members may be located on the housing 104, connected to the winding drum 108. The proximity sensors 51, 52 may be arranged in a manner associated with these receiving members.

[0108] like Figure 7b As shown in , the first part 4 of the retaining device 2 can be provided with a front surface 20, on which the first and second orifices 9, 10 are arranged. When the loop is in a minimum configuration, i.e. when the pull wire is maximally retracted from the retaining element and not connected to the knob, the pull wire can be supported on the front surface. In some cases, there may be a very small gap between the front surface and the pull wire. In any case, it may be difficult for an operator of the retaining device to grab the pull wire to increase the size of the loop before connecting the pull wire to the knob or carabineer. Therefore, as Figure 7b As shown in, the first surface can be provided with a projection 21, which is arranged between the first aperture and the second aperture and is arranged to extend from the first surface. The projection is configured to provide a (larger) gap between the pull wire and the front surface when the ring is in the above-mentioned minimum configuration. Therefore, the projection makes it easier to grasp the pull wire, thereby facilitating the use of a holding device. The extension length of the projection can be, for example, 0.2 times to 2 times the diameter of the pull wire.

[0109] In the case where the bed unit is located between the knob and the front surface, the front surface can be arranged to be supported on the knob. In other words, in the case where the bed unit is located between the knob and the front surface, the front surface can be arranged to be adjacent to the knob. The front surface can be similarly arranged to be supported on a carabine hook. Therefore, the shape of the front surface is preferably complementary to the shape of the corresponding surface of the knob that can be adjacent to the front surface and / or to the shape of the corresponding surface of the carabine hook that can be adjacent to the front surface. This further fixes the retaining device to the carabine hook or the knob in the case where the bed unit is located between the knob and the front surface. Specifically, the front surface 20 can be semicircular. Figure 7b An example of a semicircular front surface 20 between the ends 22 is shown. Additionally, or alternatively, the front surface 20 may have a rounded convex surface configured to engage with a correspondingly rounded knob recess 18 of the shank 16 of the knob 14. In other words, the inner edge of the front surface portion is rounded and convex.

[0110] Figure 2 An example of a knob 14 is shown. The knob in the exemplary sheet member of any of the figures herein may be Figure 2 An example knob in . Figure 2 In , the knob is provided with a head 15 and a handle 16. The handle has a circular cross-section and the head 15 is larger than the handle 16. The handle is provided with a knob groove 18 which is rounded in the circumferential direction. The groove is concave and adapted to cooperate with the ring of the retaining device. In one example, the height of the groove 18 is equal to the diameter of the pull wire. However, the height of the groove is preferably slightly larger than the diameter of the pull wire, such as at least 10% larger, and more preferably 20% larger. Therefore, the sheet can be clamped between the groove and the ring in a secure and tight manner. There is a relatively large contact surface between the sheet and the retaining device, which reduces the risk of the sheet slipping or tearing during the transfer of the patient from one surface to another. In addition, the diameter of the groove is preferably greater than 3 times the diameter of the pull wire. This allows the sheet to be clamped between the ring and the groove in a secure and tight manner, thereby reducing the contact load on the sheet. In Figures 3 to 7b In the example in FIG. 2 , the diameter of the pulling wire is 3 mm and the height of the groove 18 is 6 mm.

[0111] The size of the wire loop of the retaining device is reconfigurable, which provides flexibility in that the retaining device can be used with knobs of different sizes without modification. In addition, when the sheet is attached to the retaining device, there is a high probability that the sheet will not be folded evenly over the knob. Thus, the retaining device can be used to hold sheets of different materials and thicknesses, which can be folded in different ways, thereby providing different effective diameters of the knob and sheet combination.

[0112] The knob is preferably made of a rigid material (such as reinforced plastic). The holding element 2 can also be made of a rigid material, but has a certain elasticity and can be made of elastic plastic or rubber. Advantageously, the holding element, the pulling wire, the sheet member and / or the mattress member are made of a material that can be penetrated by electromagnetic waves in the frequency range commonly used by machines in hospital facilities. Examples of such frequency ranges are 10kHz-500kHz, 10kHz-80 MHz, and 80MHz to 3GHz. This will reduce or even eliminate interference with the applicability, interoperability and output of radiation machines in hospital environments. In this way, when examining a patient with radiation, it is not necessary to remove the holding device.

[0113] Figures 9a to 9d Attachment of a bed sheet to a retaining device is shown, wherein the bed sheet member 17 is a rod comprising at least one knob 14 . Figure 9a The portion of the sheet member having the knob is shown. Figure 9bIn FIG. 1 , the sheet 116 is placed on top of the knob 14 of the sheet member. Fig.9c In the process, the retaining device is moved together with the sheet towards the knob. Furthermore, the retaining element is positioned over the knob and is pushed downwards with the ring extending over the head 15 of the knob. At this stage, the diameter of the ring is greater than the diameter of the head of the knob. The sheet is simultaneously pushed down onto the knob and will be slightly pulled together by the ring. Figure 9d The second end of the pulling wire has been pulled away from the retaining element 2 and the knob, so that the ring is close to the groove 18, so that the bed sheet is pressed and held in a tight manner between the ring and the groove.

[0114] Figures 14a to 14d Attachment of a bed sheet to a holding device is shown, wherein the bed sheet member 17 is an elongated member extending in the longitudinal direction comprising two knobs 14 arranged at a distance from each other in the longitudinal direction, wherein the knobs are arranged extending in the longitudinal direction. Fig.14a The sheet member is shown positioned on top of the sheet. Fig.14b In the embodiment, the bed sheet 116 is folded on the knob 14 of the bed unit. Fig.14c In the process, each retaining device is moved together with the sheet towards the corresponding knob. Furthermore, each retaining element is positioned close to the knob and is pushed onto the knob with the ring extending over the head 15 of the knob. At this stage, the diameter of each ring is greater than the diameter of the head of the corresponding knob. Fig.14d In the embodiment, each knob and the corresponding retaining device are in a locked state. The second end of each pulling wire has been pulled away from the corresponding retaining element 2 and the knob, so that the corresponding ring is tightened, so that the bed sheet is pressed and held in a tight manner between the corresponding ring and the knob.

[0115] Also disclosed herein is a system comprising a patient transfer device 101 according to the above and a sheet member 17 and / or a mattress member 202 arranged to be attachable to a mattress 201 .

[0116] Figure 15 to Figure 16 At a more detailed level, an example of how a proximity sensor 51, 52 may be arranged on the patient transfer device 101 is shown. In this example, the proximity sensor 51 is a Hall effect sensor that is able to detect a magnet 6 arranged in the holding element 2 when the magnet 6 is sufficiently close to the sensor 51. The sensor 51 is arranged at the edge of a circuit board (not shown) and protrudes through a hole 56 in the housing 104 to be positioned above the upper surface of the housing 104, in this example, 6 mm above the upper surface of the housing.

[0117] A wire guide 55 is arranged on top and around the proximity sensor 51, which also serves as a receiver for the holding element 2. The wire guide 55 is open toward the holding element 2 and has a shape that matches the shape of the holding element 2 to receive and surround a portion of the holding element 2. A recess 57 for accommodating the sensor 51 is provided on the lower side of the wire guide 55. The recess 57 has a depth / height of 7 mm in this example and has a diameter large enough to provide space for the proximity sensor 51 that protrudes upward. The wire guide 55 is attached to the upper surface of the housing 104 by means of a screw.

[0118] This arrangement brings the holding element 2 and therefore the magnet 6 very close to the sensor 51 when reaching the end position in the wire guide 55. This in turn allows the use of a relatively small magnet 6 without the risk that the magnet will not be sensed by the proximity sensor 51 when in the end position. The effect is that the size of the holding element 2 can be reduced.

[0119] Figure 15 to Figure 16 The sensor arrangement shown in FIG. 2 is also suitable for other types of sensors, such as when the sensor is able to detect iron pieces arranged in the retaining element 2 .

[0120] Reference Numbers

[0121] 1: Holding device

[0122] 2: Holding element

[0123] 3: Pulling wire

[0124] 4: Part I

[0125] 5: Part 2

[0126] 6: Magnet

[0127] 7: Stop device

[0128] 8: First end

[0129] 8': Second end

[0130] 9: Orifice

[0131] 10: Orifice

[0132] 11: Guide tube

[0133] 12: Orifice

[0134] 13: Edge

[0135] 14: Knob

[0136] 15: Head

[0137] 16: Handle

[0138] 17: Bed sheet components

[0139] 18: Knob groove

[0140] 19: Edge

[0141] 20: Front surface

[0142] 21: The protrusion

[0143] 22: End

[0144] 23: Sloped surface

[0145] 51: First proximity sensor 52: Second proximity sensor

[0146] 53: Control circuit

[0147] 55: Wire guide / receiver for holding element

[0148] 56: Through hole in housing

[0149] 57: Recess for proximity sensor

[0150] 61: Flange

[0151] 62: Groove

[0152] 101: Patient Transfer Equipment

[0153] 102: Framework

[0154] 103: Motor

[0155] 104: Shell

[0156] 105: Wheels

[0157] 106: Vertical guide rail

[0158] 107: Pulling device

[0159] 108: Reel

[0160] 111: Arm

[0161] 112: wall

[0162] 113: First Surface

[0163] 114: Receiving surface

[0164] 115: Bed

[0165] 116: Bed Sheets

[0166] 117: Patient

[0167] 201: Mattress

[0168] 202: Mattress components

[0169] 203: Mattress retainer

[0170] 204: Opening

[0171] 205: Carbine hook

Claims

1. A patient transfer device (101) for transferring a patient placed on a bed sheet (116) or a mattress (201) from a first surface to a receiving surface, wherein: The patient transfer device (101) comprises: - at least one retractable pulling wire (3); - a pulling device (107) comprising a motor (103) operatively connected to the pulling wire (3) in order to retract the pulling wire (3) by means of the motor (103); - a holding device (1) for holding the bed sheet (116) or the mattress (201) when moving the bed sheet (116) or the mattress (201) and thus transferring the patient placed on the bed sheet (116) or the mattress (201); The holding device (1) comprises a holding element (2), to which the first end (8) of the pulling wire (3) is attached. wherein the pulling device (107) is configured to retract the pulling wire (3) and thereby move the holding device (1) and the holding element (2) toward the pulling device (107), so that when the holding device (1) is arranged to hold the bed sheet (116) or the mattress (201), the bed sheet (116) or the mattress (201) is moved toward the pulling device (107), thereby transferring the patient placed on the bed sheet (116) or the mattress (201) from the first surface to the receiving surface, The pulling device (107) is provided with a proximity sensor (51, 52), which is configured to detect whether the retaining element (2) reaches an end position located at or near the pulling device (107).

2. The patient transfer device (101) according to claim 1, wherein: The patient transfer device (101) is provided with a control circuit (53) configured to control the operation of the motor (103) based on the sensor signal received from the proximity sensor (51, 52), wherein the control circuit (53) is configured to stop the operation of the motor (103) when receiving the sensor signal indicating that the holding element (2) has reached the end position.

3. The patient transfer device (101) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The proximity sensor (51, 52) is configured to sense the presence or changes of an electromagnetic field or a beam of electromagnetic radiation.

4. The patient transfer device (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The proximity sensor (51, 52) is configured to sense the presence or changes of a magnetic field, such as a Hall Effect sensor, and wherein the retaining element (2) is provided with a magnet (6).

5. The patient transfer device (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The retaining device (1) comprises a stop device (7) configured to retain the first end (8) of the puller wire (3) in position relative to the retaining element (2), and wherein the retaining element (2) encapsulates the stop device (7).

6. The patient transfer device (101) according to claim 5, wherein: The retaining element (2) is provided with a first, a second and a third opening (9, 10, 12), and wherein the stop device (7) is arranged inside the retaining element (2) at the first opening (9).

7. The patient transfer device (101) according to claim 6, wherein: The pulling wire (3) extends out of the retaining element (2) via the first opening (9) and returns into the retaining element (2) via the second opening (10) so as to form a loop between the first opening and the second opening (9, 10) outside the retaining element (2).

8. The patient transfer device (101) according to any one of claims 6 or 7, wherein: The pulling wire (3) extends out of the holding element (2) through the third opening (12) and further extends toward the pulling device (107).

9. The patient transfer device (101) according to claims 7 and 8, wherein: The pulling wire (3) is free to move between the second opening and the third opening (10, 12) relative to the retaining element (2), so that when the pulling wire (3) is pulled out of the third opening (12), the loop of the pulling wire (3) is tightened or becomes smaller, and when the pulling wire (3) is pulled out of the second opening (10), the loop of the pulling wire (3) is loosened or becomes larger.

10. The patient transfer device (101) according to claims 5 and 6, wherein: The retaining element (2) comprises a first part and a second part (4, 5), wherein the first opening and the second opening (9, 10) are arranged in the first part (4) and the third opening (12) is arranged in the second part (5), and wherein the first part (4) is arranged to be interconnected with the second part (5) so that the first part and / or the second part encapsulate the stop device (7) when connected.

11. The patient transfer device (101) according to claim 10, wherein: The first and second parts (4, 5) of the retaining element (2) are arranged so that when the first and second parts (4, 5) are pushed together and connected to form the retaining element (2), a part of one of the parts (5) is inserted into the other part (4), and wherein the first and second parts (4, 5) are provided with a pair of complementary and circumferentially extending snap-in locking members (61, 62) which engage when the first and second parts (4, 5) are pushed together and connected.

12. The patient transfer device (101) according to claim 11, wherein: The complementary and circumferentially extending snap-locking members include a flange (61) and a groove (62), wherein the flange (61) has inclined sides oriented to facilitate the passage of the snap-locking members (61, 62) when the first and second parts (4, 5) are pushed together, and wherein the flange (61) has straight sides oriented in opposite directions to prevent the accidental passage of the snap-locking members (61, 62) when the first and second parts (4, 5) are pushed together and connected.

13. The patient transfer device (101) according to claim 5, wherein: The stop device (7) comprises a knot formed by the pull wire (3) and / or a stop member attached to the pull wire (3).

14. The patient transfer device (101) according to claim 6, wherein: The stop device (7) comprises a sleeve arranged around the puller wire (3), wherein the sleeve is clamped on the puller wire (3) so as to be firmly attached to the puller wire, and wherein the sleeve has a diameter greater than the diameter of the first orifice (9) over at least a portion of its length.

15. The patient transfer device (101) according to claim 10, wherein: The retaining element (2) is provided with a wire guide channel through which the pulling wire (3) extends, wherein the wire guide channel extends between the second and third apertures (10, 12), and wherein a portion of the wire guide channel is formed by a guide tube (11) connected to the first portion (4) and extending towards the second portion (5).

16. The patient transfer device (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The retaining element (2) comprises a magnet (6).

17. The patient transfer device (101) according to claim 16, wherein: The magnet (6) is provided with a through hole, and the pulling wire (3) extends through the through hole.

18. The patient transfer device (101) according to claims 15 and 17, wherein: The magnet (6) is arranged inside the second part (5) facing the first part (4) of the retaining element (2), wherein the guide tube (11) is adapted to hold the magnet (6) in place when the first and second parts (4, 5) are interconnected.

19. The patient transfer device (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The retaining element (2) is made of a polymer material, such as a plastic material or a rubber material.

20. The patient transfer device (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The pulling device (107) comprises a winding drum (108) connected to the motor (103), and wherein the proximity sensor is arranged to be connected to the winding drum (108).

21. The patient transfer device (101) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The proximity sensors (51, 52) extend through holes (56) in the housing (104) of the pulling device (107) to be positioned at least partially above an upper surface of the housing (104).

22. The patient transfer device (101) according to claim 21, wherein: A component (55) such as a wire guide and / or a receiver for the retaining element (2) is arranged on top of and around the proximity sensor (51), wherein a recess (57) is provided on the underside of the component (55), the recess being configured to provide space for and accommodate the protruding portion of the proximity sensor (51, 52).

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