Patient lifting device

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a patient lifting device (100) comprising a plurality of inflatable members (110). Each inflatable member (111, 112, 113, 114) of the plurality of inflatable members (110) includes a first portion (170) having an outer periphery (175) and a second portion (180) having an outer periphery (185). An outer periphery of the first portion (175) and an outer periphery of the second portion (185) are joined to define a chamber therein. The patient lifting device (100) further comprises one or more ports (120, 130), each port being disposed through a wall of one of the plurality of inflatable components and each port being arranged to be connectable with a removably attached air pump (150) for moving air between the chamber of the one inflatable component and the environment external to the patient lifting device (100).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a patient lifting device. Background Technology

[0002] Patient lifting devices elevate patients from a lower position, such as lying or sitting on the ground, to a higher position, enabling them to move to seek medical attention or care. Some common examples of patient lifting devices are patient slings. These slings typically consist of a sling for the patient to sit in, which can move upwards and often also rotate the patient. These types of patient slings are quite large and bulky and generally cannot fit into limited spaces, such as the home of a patient requiring care. Furthermore, using patient slings carries the risk of injury to the patient during movement because the sling provides minimal support and the patient must remain in an upright position while being moved by the sling.

[0003] Other examples of patient lifting devices include patient lifters. The patient is placed on the lifter and is raised into a lying or sitting position by increasing the height of the uppermost lifter surface relative to the ground. One example of such a lifter is the mechanically operated "scissor lift." These types of patient lifts are also bulky and large, and lack a high degree of flexibility when installed in more confined spaces. They also do not provide a high level of patient comfort, which is a very important consideration for the care environment.

[0004] Inflatable patient lifts are also known, in which air pressure is used to inflate or deflate a sealed chamber, thereby raising or lowering the height of the uppermost lift surface relative to the ground.

[0005] This invention was conceived in this context. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, a patient lifting device is provided, comprising: a plurality of inflatable components. Each of the plurality of inflatable components includes a first portion having an outer periphery and a second portion having an outer periphery. The outer peripheries of the first portion and the second portion are connected to define a chamber therein. The patient lifting device further includes one or more ports, each port disposed through a wall of one of the plurality of inflatable components and arranged to be connected to a removably attached air pump for moving air between the chamber of one of the inflatable components and the external environment of the patient lifting device.

[0007] Therefore, the patient lifting device can take the form of a multi-layered inflatable structure with multiple inflatable components. The patient lifting device may include a single port or multiple ports. In the case of multiple ports, each port may pass through the wall of the same inflatable component, or multiple ports may be distributed on the walls of multiple inflatable components.

[0008] The patient lift device can be configured to connect to a removably attached air pump at each of one or more ports. The patient lift device may include a connector at each of the one or more ports for securing the removably attached air pump relative to the one or more ports.

[0009] In some embodiments, the outer periphery of the first portion and the outer periphery of the second portion can be connected indirectly. For example, the outer periphery can be connected by a sidewall extending between the first and second portions. In some embodiments, the outer periphery of the first portion and the outer periphery of the second portion can be directly connected, so that there is no sidewall.

[0010] In some embodiments, the stiffness of a portion of at least one inflatable component may be higher than the stiffness of an adjacent portion. For example, in some embodiments, the stiffness of at least a portion of at least one sidewall on the inflatable component is greater than the stiffness of the first and second portions of the inflatable component. In some embodiments, the portion of the inflatable component that directly connects the outer peripheries of the first and second portions has a higher stiffness than the remaining first and second portions. The portion that directly connects the outer peripheries of the first and second portions may be defined by a band having a thickness extending around the connection point of the outer peripheries of the first and second portions. For example, the band may have a thickness between 0.5 cm and 10 cm. In this way, by providing a rigid edge to at least one inflatable component, additional stability is provided to the patient lift.

[0011] In some embodiments, the lowermost inflatable member may extend further than the uppermost inflatable member, at least in the lateral direction. In embodiments where at least one additional inflatable member is disposed between the lowermost and uppermost inflatable members, the extent of extension of each inflatable member, at least in the lateral direction, decreases from the lowermost to the uppermost inflatable member. For example, in an embodiment having a first, second, third, and fourth inflatable member, wherein the first inflatable member is the lowermost and the fourth inflatable member is the uppermost, the extent of extension of each inflatable member, at least in the lateral direction, decreases from the first inflatable member through the second, third, and fourth inflatable members, such that the fourth inflatable member has the smallest extent of extension, at least in the lateral direction. A stable base structure is provided by ensuring that the lowest inflatable component has at least the maximum lateral extension, while the highest inflatable component has at least the minimum lateral extension, and that the lateral extension of the inflatable components decreases from the lowest to the highest. This stable foundation enhances the stability of the patient lift.

[0012] Typically, patient lifts are bulky and difficult to install in confined spaces. Fixed building installations, such as scissor lifts, are large and difficult to operate. The device of the present invention, including inflatable components, is easy to use even in confined spaces. The arrangement of at least one port of the patient lift and its removably attached air pump allows the device to be inflated in multiple ways, thereby improving the device's adaptability to different environments. For example, at least one port may be provided on each inflatable component. This allows for individual inflation of individual inflatable components, for example, in a tiered device. Similarly, having at least one port on only some inflatable components allows for individual inflation of certain parts of the device. More than one port may be provided on any one of the inflatable components of the device. For example, an inlet port configured to receive air from a removably attached air pump may be provided, and an outlet port configured to move air from the chamber of any inflatable component to the external environment and / or to the removably attached air pump may be provided. In some embodiments, at least one port can serve as both an inlet and an outlet. At least one port may be located anywhere on the sidewall of the inflatable component. More than one port can be provided on more than one side wall of the inflatable component. In this way, if one port is unusable, another port can be used to inflate or deflate the inflatable component. This is particularly useful when there is not much space to connect a removably attached air pump to the device.

[0013] One or more ports may be inlets or outlets arranged as one-way valves. The one-way valve may be screw-fit, push-button type, or any other suitable configuration. The air pump may include a nozzle removably attached to the port. For example, the air pump may include a nozzle attached to an inlet arranged as a one-way valve.

[0014] In some embodiments, the patient lifting device also includes a housing for receiving a removably attached air pump. Thus, the removably attached air pump can be mounted in the housing to exchange air with the chamber of the inflatable component to which the housing is located. The housing can be located outside the inflatable component, for example, on an outer sidewall. The housing can be made of a rigid material such as plastic. In use, the housing provides rigidity to the patient lifting device and protects the removably attached air pump attached to it. The housing can be arranged such that it surrounds multiple sides of the removably attached air pump when it is received in the housing. The housing can extend into the chamber. In this way, the removably attached air pump typically does not significantly or completely extend beyond the sidewall of the inflatable component when attached to the housing. The housing can be located directly within the chamber such that the removably attached air pump does not extend beyond the sidewall of the inflatable component when it is received in the housing. A housing can be provided at each inflatable component within the device. Therefore, in a layered assembly comprising four inflatable components stacked on top of each other, four housings can be provided, one housing in each inflatable component layer, each housing capable of receiving a removably attached air pump. The patient lift device may also include a removably attached air pump. One or more removably attached air pumps can be received in one or more housings disposed directly within the chambers of one or more inflatable components of the patient lift device, such that the one or more removably attached air pumps do not extend beyond the sidewalls of each inflatable component. This provides a convenient and space-saving construction, particularly useful in limited spaces, where the space occupied by the patient lift device with one or more removably attached air pumps when inflated does not exceed the space occupied by the patient lift device itself when inflated.

[0015] In some embodiments, at least one inflatable component is internally arranged to form at least one first channel extending in a first lateral direction between the outer periphery of a first portion and the outer periphery of a second portion of the inflatable component. The first lateral direction may be the length of the inflatable component. The first lateral direction may be the width of the inflatable component. The at least one first channel may extend at least partially across the length of the inflatable component. The at least one first channel may extend at least partially across the width of the inflatable component. The at least one first channel may have a rectangular cross-section. The at least one first channel may have a square cross-section. The inflatable component may include a plurality of first channels. Each of the plurality of first channels may include a sidewall shared between adjacent first channels. A through-hole may be defined in each sidewall shared between adjacent first channels, such that an airflow path is formed between adjacent first channels. Each of the plurality of first channels may be attached to each other by means such as welding, hook-and-loop fasteners, adhesives, snaps, or any other suitable attachment means. In this way, the connection between the first and second outer portions of the inflatable component can be used to prevent the device from bulging during inflation, thus providing enhanced structural integrity for the patient lifting device.

[0016] In some embodiments, the interior of at least one inflatable component may also be arranged to form at least one second channel, which intersects at least one first channel at the outer periphery of the first and second portions of the inflatable component, and extends in a second lateral direction between the outer periphery of the first and second portions of the inflatable component. It should be understood that the at least one first channel and the at least one second channel are generally spaced apart from the outer periphery of the first and second portions of the inflatable component, i.e., away from their respective ends. In other words, the open gaps defining the chambers of the inflatable component at the outer periphery of the first and second portions of the inflatable component cannot be considered as first or second channels as described herein. By providing at least one first channel and at least one second channel, the inflatable component can be used as a height-adjustable part of a patient lifting device without necessarily requiring air to fill the entire volume of the inflatable component having at least one first channel and at least one second channel. A network formed by at least one first channel and at least one second channel of a single inflatable component can be considered to provide a mesh structure. The inflatable component may further include a peripheral channel extending around its periphery, the periphery comprising an outer periphery of a first portion and an outer periphery of a second portion of the inflatable component. The peripheral channel may intersect with the ends of one or more of at least one first channel and at least one second channel (such as multiple channels, or even each channel). Each of the plurality of adjacent inflatable components in the patient lifting device may be arranged as described above. Each inflatable component on the patient lifting device may be arranged as described above. Each of the plurality of first channels may be spaced apart from each other such that the sidewall portions of any of the plurality of first channels do not contact each other. In the case where at least one second channel is a plurality of second channels, each of the plurality of second channels may be spaced apart from each other such that the sidewall portions of any of the plurality of second channels do not contact each other.

[0017] Multiple adjacent inflatable components may include a first adjacent inflatable component adjacent to a second adjacent inflatable component. At least one first channel and at least one second channel of the first adjacent inflatable component may be stacked over a corresponding at least one first channel and a corresponding at least one second channel of the second adjacent inflatable component. Peripheral channels of the first adjacent inflatable component may be stacked over corresponding peripheral channels of the second adjacent inflatable component. Therefore, by stacking one or more internal channels of adjacent inflatable components on top of each other, the patient lifting device is structurally particularly stable. Furthermore, the inflatable components of the patient lifting device will not experience bulging problems, which may occur in inflatable components that do not have the type of internal channel structure described herein.

[0018] The second adjacent inflatable component may include a concave portion of at least one of a first channel and at least one second channel, the concave portion being configured to support at least one first channel and at least one second channel of the first adjacent inflatable component. Therefore, the first adjacent inflatable component can be stably supported in the concave shape of the corresponding portion of the second adjacent inflatable component when inflated. The second adjacent inflatable component may include a plurality of concave portions, each concave portion being configured to receive a corresponding portion of the first adjacent inflatable component.

[0019] The concave portion may be disposed at the peripheral channel. The concave portion may be disposed at each of at least one first channel and at each of at least one second channel. In some embodiments, the concave portion of the second adjacent inflatable member may be formed by the convex surfaces of the corresponding at least one first channel and the corresponding at least one second channel of the first adjacent inflatable member.

[0020] The patient lift may also include a cover disposed above multiple inflatable components. This allows for further separation of the patient from any non-flat structural features of the uppermost inflatable component of the patient lift, thereby improving patient comfort. The cover may be removably attached to the patient lift. The cover may be configured to seal the entire patient lift structure. The cover may be located on the uppermost inflatable component, which may be a mesh structure. The cover may be made of a material containing breathable portions.

[0021] Multiple inflatable components can be configured such that a fluid communication path is defined between the chambers of at least two adjacent inflatable components. Thus, multiple adjacent inflatable components can be inflated by air pumped into a single inflatable component. For example, a patient lift comprising four inflatable components stacked on top of each other can be arranged such that fluid communication exists between at least one set of adjacent inflatable components. In this way, the chamber of a first inflatable component can be filled with air, thereby causing inflation of the chambers of adjacent inflatable components. This is advantageous because it eliminates the need for each inflatable component to be removably attached to an air pump. Instead, inflation of the entire patient lift can be achieved using a single air pump attached to a single port. The fluid communication path can be a flow-blocking path such that the first inflatable component upstream of the fluid communication path is substantially or completely inflated before air flows through the fluid communication path to inflate one or more second inflatable components downstream of the fluid communication path. It should be understood that "upstream" and "downstream" refer to their relative positions with respect to the direction of airflow during inflation of the inflatable components of the patient lift.

[0022] The patient lifting device may also include a wall through which a fluid communication path is defined. The wall may be a common wall shared between each pair of adjacent inflatable components of at least two adjacent inflatable components. In this way, adjacent inflatable components do not need to include two separate walls spanning a common boundary. In some embodiments, the wall includes at least one air-permeable area through which a fluid path is defined. For example, the air-permeable area may contain an air-permeable material or may have one or more perforations (e.g., multiple perforations) defined therein. In some embodiments, each of at least two adjacent inflatable components includes at least one air-permeable area. In this way, air-permeable areas are provided in both adjacent inflatable components. It should be understood that an air-permeable area is generally any area through which airflow is permitted.

[0023] The air-permeable area may include a one-way valve. This one-way valve may be arranged as an opening in a common wall shared between at least two adjacent inflatable components and has a cover associated with the opening. The cover may be a hinged cover. The cover may be a flexible cover. The cover and the associated opening may be arranged such that, during inflation of the lower inflatable component, the cover moves from a first position to a second position, in which the cover completely covers and seals the opening to restrict airflow through the opening, and in the second position, the opening is exposed to allow air from the lower inflatable component chamber to travel through the opening and enter the upper inflatable component chamber. The cover is configured such that when airflow from the lower inflatable component chamber ceases, the cover returns to the first position and seals with the opening on the side of the opening opposite the lower inflatable component chamber, thereby substantially or completely preventing air from flowing from the upper inflatable component chamber back to the lower inflatable component chamber. It should be understood that one-way valves with other configurations may be used alternatively. Each air-permeable zone may include a one-way valve of the type described above.

[0024] In some embodiments, the chamber of at least one of a plurality of inflatable components includes at least one elongated structure. This at least one elongated structure may extend between a first portion and a second portion of the at least one inflatable component. When a patient lift is used, the at least one elongated structure may extend vertically between the first and second portions of the at least one inflatable component. It should be understood that the elongated structure generally extends in a vertical direction, i.e., in the direction between the first and second portions of the at least one inflatable component. The at least one elongated structure provides enhanced structural rigidity to the patient lift device and acts as a strap to prevent the first and second portions of the inflatable component from bulging. The at least one elongated structure in the at least one inflatable component may include a first elongated structure region disposed in the first portion of the at least one inflatable component and a second elongated structure region disposed in the second portion of the at least one inflatable component. In other words, each elongated structure is formed by at least a first elongated structure region and a second elongated structure region. The at least one elongated structure may be arranged, for example, in a tubular or disc-like form.

[0025] At least a portion of the air-permeable region may form part of at least one elongated structure. In this manner, air enters and / or exits the inflatable component chamber via the elongated structure having the air-permeable region. Therefore, inflation of the inflatable component can be controlled particularly effectively. The air-permeable region may be disposed on one or both of a first elongated structure region and a second elongated structure region. At least one sidewall of at least one elongated structure may include an air-permeable region to allow airflow between one or more elongated structures having air-permeable regions connected to other inflatable components and portions of inflatable component chambers outside the one or more elongated structures (which include one or more other elongated structures that do not have air-permeable regions directly connected to other inflatable components (or do not have connections to the same other inflatable component)). Thus, multiple fluid communication paths through the respective chambers of each inflatable component can be formed by one or more elongated structures. For example, a patient lifting device may be provided comprising four inflatable structures stacked on top of each other, and each chamber may include at least one elongated structure. At least one elongated structure may be multiple elongated structures. Each elongated structure may include an air-permeable region located on both the first and second elongated structure regions of the second and third inflatable components, as well as an air-permeable region located on the sidewalls of the elongated structures of the first and fourth inflatable components, allowing air to flow between all inflatable components in the patient lifting device. Airflow through the elongated structures enables controlled inflation of each inflatable component.

[0026] The air permeability of at least one sidewall of at least one elongated structure in the first inflatable component can be greater than the air permeability of an air-permeable region in at least one sidewall of at least one elongated structure in the second inflatable component. In this way, controlled inflation of the first inflatable component followed by the second inflatable component can be enhanced. The air-permeable region may include a plurality of orifices. The size of the orifices can be configured differently depending on the location of the air-permeable region within at least one sidewall of at least one elongated structure of a particular inflatable component within the patient lift. For example, an orifice in an air-permeable region of at least one sidewall of at least one elongated structure in the first inflatable component can be larger than an orifice in an air-permeable region of at least one sidewall of at least one elongated structure in the second inflatable component.

[0027] The air-permeable area can be separated from the first elongated structural area and the second elongated structural area. In this way, the primary purpose of the elongated structure is to provide structural integrity for the patient lifting device. In other words, the air-permeable area in the first portion of the inflatable component, which allows fluid communication with another inflatable component adjacent to it at that first portion, is located outside the first elongated structural area, and the air-permeable area in the second portion of the inflatable component, which allows fluid communication with yet another inflatable component adjacent to it at that second portion, is located outside the second elongated structural area. It should be understood that, in this configuration, the sidewalls of the elongated structure will typically include air-permeable areas to allow air to enter the elongated structure.

[0028] Each elongated structure in the first inflatable component of the device can be arranged linearly with another elongated structure in an adjacent inflatable component. In this way, each elongated structure in each adjacent inflatable component can be stacked on top of each other. This can be particularly useful when airflow through the device is achieved via the elongated structures in adjacent inflatable components, where each elongated structure has an air-permeable area to facilitate airflow through it. Alternatively, each elongated structure can be offset relative to another elongated structure in an adjacent inflatable component. In this way, each elongated structure can be staggered relative to another elongated structure in an adjacent inflatable component. This offset of the elongated structures in adjacent inflatable components can provide enhanced structural rigidity to the device, thereby providing a more solid foundation for the patient lying on the device during use.

[0029] At least one elongated structure can extend horizontally, extending between the first and second sidewalls of the inflatable component. In this way, structural rigidity is provided in the inflatable component with at least one elongated structure to contribute to the structural rigidity of the entire patient lifting device. Regardless of the configuration of the inflatable component, the elongated structure can extend horizontally. For example, the inflatable component can be a mattress, a backrest, or a pillow. The horizontal extension of the elongated structure is particularly advantageous for providing structural rigidity when the inflatable component is a smaller component such as a backrest or pillow.

[0030] At least one elongated structure may include a one-way valve. The one-way valve may be arranged as an opening in the wall that divides the elongated structure into at least a lower region and an upper region, and has a cover associated with the opening. The cover may be a hinged cover. The cover may be a flexible cover. The cover and the associated opening may be arranged such that, when the lower region of the elongated structure is inflated by inflating an adjacent or corresponding inflatable component, the cover moves from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the cover completely covers and seals the opening to restrict airflow through the opening; in the second position, the opening is exposed to allow air from the lower region to travel through the opening and enter the upper region of the elongated structure. The cover is configured such that when the airflow from the lower region ceases, the cover returns to the first position and seals with the opening on the side of the opening opposite the lower region, thereby substantially or completely preventing air from flowing from the upper region back to the lower region. The airflow path to the elongated structure including the check valve can be provided via an air-permeable region on a first elongated structure region, an air-permeable region on a second elongated structure region, an air-permeable region on the sidewall of the elongated structure region, or via any combination of these air-permeable regions. It should be understood that check valves with other configurations can be used alternatively.

[0031] In some embodiments, the chamber of at least one of a plurality of inflatable components includes at least one connecting element. This at least one connecting element can connect a first portion and a second portion of the inflatable component within the chamber of the inflatable component where the connecting element is located. The connecting element can extend through the chamber of the inflatable component to provide structural reinforcement to the patient lift. The connecting element can be a baffle. The baffle can extend in the width direction of the inflatable component. The baffle can also extend in the length direction of the inflatable component. Multiple baffles can be provided in each inflatable component. Multiple baffles can also be provided in multiple inflatable components. The baffle or multiple baffles can be arranged in the chamber of at least one inflatable component to define at least one internal chamber region surrounded by at least one external chamber region.

[0032] In embodiments including a baffle, the baffle may be arranged as a continuous element that defines an internal chamber region. In embodiments including multiple baffles, at least two of the multiple baffles may be connected to each other to form corners around the periphery of the internal chamber region. In some embodiments, at least three baffles may be connected to each other to form at least two corners around the periphery of the internal chamber region. In some embodiments, at least four baffles may be connected to each other to form at least three or four corners around the periphery of the internal chamber region. The baffle or multiple baffles may be arranged to define an internal chamber region having a quadrilateral cross-section. For example, four baffles may be present among the multiple baffles. These four baffles may be arranged to define an internal chamber region having a rectangular or square cross-section. When a patient sits or lies on an inflatable member including the baffle or multiple baffles (which are arranged to define the internal chamber region), enhanced stability is provided to the patient because the internal chamber region defined by the baffle or multiple baffles provides a recess on the surface of the inflatable member into which the patient can sit or lie. Therefore, it is advantageous that at least the uppermost inflatable component includes the baffle or baffles arranged in this manner.

[0033] One or more air-permeable regions may be provided in one or more baffles, defining an airflow path between the inner chamber region and the outer chamber region. The permeability of the air-permeable regions in one or more baffles of the first inflatable component may be greater than that in one or more baffles of the second inflatable component. In this way, controlled inflation of the first inflatable component followed by the second inflatable component can be enhanced. The air-permeable regions may include multiple orifices. The orifice sizes may be configured differently depending on the position of one or more baffles within a specific inflatable component of the patient lift. For example, the orifices in the air-permeable regions of one or more baffles of the first component may be larger than the orifices in the air-permeable regions of one or more baffles of the second inflatable component.

[0034] In some embodiments, at least two of the baffles are not connected. In this way, an airflow path can be defined between the inner chamber region and the outer chamber region, passing through at least one gap in the periphery of the inner chamber region. Multiple gaps can be provided, for example, two, three, or four gaps, depending on the arrangement of the baffles.

[0035] In another aspect, this disclosure provides a patient lifting device comprising: a plurality of inflatable components, each inflatable component including a first portion having an outer periphery and a second portion having an outer periphery, wherein the outer periphery of the first portion and the outer periphery of the second portion are connected to define a chamber therein, and wherein the plurality of inflatable components are arranged such that a fluid communication path exists between the chambers of at least two adjacent inflatable components; one or more ports, each port disposed through a wall of one of the plurality of inflatable components, and each port configured to allow air to enter the chamber of the respective inflatable component; and at least one elongated structure disposed in the chamber of at least one inflatable component, the at least one elongated structure extending between the first portion and the second portion, wherein the elongated structure includes an air-permeable region, and the fluid communication path is at least partially defined through the air-permeable region.

[0036] It should be understood that a "port" is an opening through which air can enter or exit the chamber of an inflatable component. In the case of multiple inflatable components, one or more ports may be provided in only one of the multiple inflatable components. In other words, air can be exchanged between the inflatable component of the patient lifting device and the external environment only through one or more ports.

[0037] Therefore, because there is a fluid communication path between at least two adjacent inflatable components, the patient lifting device can be inflated using only a removably attached air pump connected to one or more ports of a single inflatable component among the plurality of inflatable components. It should be understood that at least two adjacent inflatable components include one inflatable component among the plurality of inflatable components having one or more ports.

[0038] The following implementation methods can be combined with any of the previous aspects and implementation methods.

[0039] The patient lift device may include four inflatable components. Each inflatable component may share a common wall with adjacent inflatable components. Each inflatable component may include at least one port. Each port may be configured to allow air to flow between the chamber of the respective inflatable component and the external environment. Each common wall may include an air-permeable area. In this way, the patient lift device can provide an inflation height suitable for patient care, and because of the air-permeable area in the common wall shared between each adjacent inflatable component, the entire device can be inflated using only one port and only one removably attached air pump if needed. However, when the removably attached air pump is connected to other inflatable components, different inflatable components of the patient lift device can be inflated, rather than all inflatable components. As described above, one or more air-permeable areas included in the common wall may be in the form of one-way valves.

[0040] In the case where the patient lifting device includes an air-permeable area, the permeability of the first common wall can be greater than that of the air-permeable area of ​​the second common wall. In this way, the chambers of each inflatable component can be sequentially inflated, thereby achieving controlled inflation of the device. For example, the permeability of the air-permeable area of ​​the first common wall can be more than 15% higher than that of the air-permeable area of ​​the second common wall. The volumetric flow rate through the air-permeable area of ​​the first common wall can be greater than that through the air-permeable area of ​​the second common wall. In some embodiments, the permeability of the air-permeable areas of the first and second common walls is such that when the first inflatable component is fully inflated, the inflation degree of the second inflatable component sharing the first common wall with the first inflatable component is 40% to 60% of the inflation degree of the fully inflated first inflatable component, and the inflation degree of the third inflatable component sharing the second common wall with the second inflatable component is 10% to 35% of the inflation degree of the fully inflated first inflatable component. In some embodiments, the permeability of the air-permeable regions of the first and second common walls is such that the volumetric flow rate of air through the third inflatable component, which shares a common wall with the second inflatable component, is 20% to 60% of the volumetric flow rate of air through the second inflatable component, which shares a common wall with the first inflatable component.

[0041] The permeability of an air-permeable area can be defined by the surface area of ​​a common wall defining orifices in adjacent inflatable components. The size, number, location, and density of the orifices can be determined based on the intended use and the intended type of patient (or body part of the patient) to which they will be placed. For example, the permeability of a first common wall shared between the lowermost inflatable component and its adjacent upper inflatable component can be greater than the permeability of a second common wall shared between a second inflatable component and its upper third inflatable component, because the first common wall can define a greater number or larger size of orifices than the second common wall. Therefore, in a patient lifting device, the surface area of ​​each common wall successive from the first common wall to the second common wall to the third common wall (and so on) can have reduced permeability because the surface area of ​​the common wall increases while the number or size of the orifices defined therein decreases or becomes smaller.

[0042] Therefore, making the common wall at the top of the uppermost inflatable component, which allows air to enter during use, has low permeability, will greatly enhance the safe inflation of the device when the patient is on top of the uppermost inflatable compartment. This is because each inflatable component is inflated sequentially, which means that the stability of the device is enhanced compared to the case where all inflatable components are inflated synchronously at the same rate.

[0043] In a patient lifting device comprising at least one elongated structure, if the air-permeable area of ​​the first common wall shared between the first and second inflatable components does not include at least a portion of the at least one elongated structure, while the air-permeable area of ​​the second common wall shared between the second and third inflatable components includes at least a portion of the at least one elongated structure, then the permeability of the first common wall can be greater than that of the second common wall. Therefore, due to the difference in permeability between the common walls shared by adjacent inflatable components of the device, sequential inflation of the inflatable components in the patient lifting device can be achieved, wherein one inflatable component is provided with one or more elongated structures, while adjacent inflatable components are provided with fewer elongated structures (it can be zero elongated structures).

[0044] For a patient lifting device comprising one or more elongated structures, the inflation rate of a second inflatable component comprising one or more elongated structures can be less than the inflation rate of a first inflatable component comprising zero or fewer elongated structures. Therefore, incorporating at least one elongated structure within an inflatable component can also enable sequential inflation of the inflatable components in the patient lifting device, thereby achieving stable and controlled inflation of the entire device. Airflow through an inflatable component defining at least one elongated structure can be more restricted than airflow through inflatable components comprising fewer (potentially zero) elongated structures. This is because air passes through the inflatable component and enters at least one elongated structure via an air-permeable region of the first elongated structure, or through an opening in the sidewall of at least one elongated structure, or through any other opening on at least one elongated structure. Therefore, an inflatable component comprising at least one elongated structure may require a longer time to fill with the same amount of air compared to an inflatable component not comprising at least one elongated structure. Similarly, compared to the first inflatable component, a second inflatable component having more elongated structures may require a longer time to fill with the same amount of air. Therefore, when at least one elongated structure exists in the patient lifting device, the inflation rate of each inflatable component in the patient lifting device can be customized based on the number of elongated structures in each inflatable component and the air permeability of that elongated structure, or the first elongated structure region within each elongated structure, or each first elongated structure region, or the second elongated structure region, or each second elongated structure region.

[0045] At least one inflatable component (e.g., each inflatable component) may include at least two ports, namely at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet. In other words, a first port of the inflatable component may be an air inlet, and a second port of the inflatable component may be an air outlet. In this way, inflation and deflation steps can be performed through separate ports. Both the inlet and outlet may individually receive a removably attached air pump that can switch between inflation and deflation modes. The inlet may include a one-way valve to limit or even significantly prevent air from leaving the inflatable component through it. The outlet may include a one-way valve to limit or even significantly prevent air from entering the inflatable component through it.

[0046] An internal airflow channel may be defined within the patient lift device, extending from the port and opening into the chamber at a location within the chamber remote from the port. Therefore, providing an internal airflow channel allows air that would otherwise enter the chamber directly at the port to move further into the chamber and be more evenly distributed throughout the chamber. This reduces asymmetrical inflation that can occur in inflatable components, potentially leading to instability when the patient is lying on the patient lift device. Without an internal airflow channel, the edges of the inflatable components may inflate completely before the center and before the patient is raised. The internal airflow channel may be arranged to open into the chamber at least 10 cm from the port. The internal airflow channel may be arranged to provide multiple openings into the chamber, ensuring that air is directed into the chamber at multiple different locations within the chamber. The internal airflow channel may be integrated into at least one inflatable component. Each inflatable component may define an internal airflow channel. The internal airflow channel may be located inside the chamber and attached to the patient lift device at the outer periphery of either the first or second portion of the patient lift device. The internal airflow channels can be arranged in any shape to achieve improved airflow distribution from the port to the chamber of the inflatable component. For example, the internal airflow channels can be arranged as tubes, such as tubes with a generally circular or rectangular cross-section, defining openings along the length of the tube. The openings can be distributed along the length of the tube (e.g., uniformly). In some embodiments, at least 50% of the openings of the internal airflow channels can be located at a distance greater than or equal to 10 cm from the port. Therefore, air is supplied to the chamber at multiple locations within the chamber. The air can be distributed substantially uniformly within the chamber. The openings can have different sizes along the entire length of the internal airflow channels. For example, the opening closest to the edge of the inflatable component can be smaller than the opening closest to the center of the inflatable component. In this way, when a patient lies on the inflatable component, the larger openings will direct more air to the center of the inflatable component chamber. This allows most of the patient's weight to be lifted at the center where the weight is most concentrated, while the edges of the inflatable component lift lighter portions of the patient.

[0047] Each inflatable component may define more than one internal airflow channel. Each air inlet port on the inflatable component may have an internal airflow channel extending therefrom. For example, in an inflatable component with two air inlets—that is, one air inlet port on each side of the sidewall—two corresponding internal airflow channels may be provided, extending from each port into the chamber. Internal airflow channels may extend across each sidewall of the inflatable component. The internal airflow channels may extend continuously across each sidewall of the inflatable component, or they may be divided into separate internal airflow channels, such that each internal airflow channel is closed by each sidewall, and each internal airflow channel receives air from a corresponding air inlet on each sidewall of the inflatable component. One or more internal airflow channels may be defined in one or more inflatable components of a multi-level patient lifting device.

[0048] The patient lift may also include one or more straps (e.g., multiple straps) for securing the patient to the patient lift. Thus, the patient can be safely held on the patient lift during raising or lowering operations or in other situations. At least one of the straps, such as each strap, can be reconfigured into a storage configuration in which the ends of the strap will not fall onto the floor around the patient lift. At least one of the straps, such as each strap, can be removably attached to the patient lift. It should be understood that the straps can often be quite long and therefore may obstruct the operation of the patient lift when not being used to secure the patient. Therefore, by enabling the straps to be reconfigured into a storage configuration (e.g., by removable attachment), the ends of the straps can be prevented from contacting the ground when not needed. When it is necessary to secure the patient to the patient lift, the straps can be reconfigured from the storage configuration to a use configuration (e.g., reattached).

[0049] In the usage configuration, at least one strap can be attached to another part of the patient lift at a connection point on the patient lift. In the storage configuration, at least one strap can be removed from the patient lift by disconnecting from the connection point. In some embodiments, in the storage configuration, at least one strap can be received at least partially by a receiving member attached to the patient lift. For example, the patient lift may also include at least one pocket that can at least partially receive at least one strap in the storage configuration. In some embodiments, the patient lift includes at least one receiving protrusion configured to keep at least a portion of a strap off the ground in the storage configuration. For example, at least one protrusion may be used to wrap the strap around itself. In some embodiments, the patient lift may include attachment members such as hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro) arranged such that at least a portion of the strap is in the storage configuration when it is attached to the patient lift via the hook-and-loop fastener. For example, the sidewall of the patient lifting device may include a strip of hook-shaped material, and at least a portion of the strip may include a loop material, such that in a receiving configuration, at least a portion of the strip can be attached to the strip of hook-shaped material and form a hook-and-loop connection.

[0050] Each strap can be a two-piece strap. In other words, the strap is formed by a first strap portion arranged to connect with a second strap portion to provide the strap described above. Each portion of the two-piece strap can terminate at a connecting member portion, which together form a connecting member to secure the first portion to the second portion when the first strap portion is connected to the second strap portion via the connecting member. The connecting member can be a buckle connector. The strap can be connected to the body of the patient lifting device, such as to a side wall of the patient lifting device, via a detachable and reattachable connector. This detachable and reattachable connector can be a zipper connector, a hook and loop connector, or any other suitable connector.

[0051] In some embodiments, the patient lift may further include one or more handles (e.g., multiple handles) for moving the patient lift, for example, for moving the patient lift on a surface or for lifting the patient lift from one position to another. At least one of the one or more handles, such as each handle, may be reconfigured into a storage configuration in which at least a portion of the handle is removed from the use position, allowing free access (e.g., allowing patient caregivers free access) to a patient lying on the body of the patient lift. At least one of the one or more handles, such as each handle, may be removably attached to another portion of the patient lift. Thus, by enabling the handles to be reconfigured into a storage configuration (e.g., by removable attachment), access to the patient lift is improved. When it is necessary to move (e.g., lift) the patient lift, the handles can be reconfigured from the storage configuration to the use configuration (e.g., reattached). In this way, when at least one handle is configured into the storage configuration, patient caregivers can approach the patient lift and care for the patient without at least one handle obstructing their access. In some embodiments, in the use configuration, the handle may be attached to another part of the patient lift at the connection point. In the storage configuration, the handle can be removed from the patient lift by disconnecting from the connection point. In some embodiments, in the storage configuration, at least one handle may be received at least partially by a receiving member attached to the patient lift. For example, the patient lift may include at least one pocket that may at least partially receive the handle in the storage configuration. In some embodiments, the patient lift includes at least one receiving protrusion configured to keep at least a portion of at least one handle off the ground and out of obstruction for patient caregivers in the storage configuration. For example, at least one protrusion may be used to wrap the handle around itself. In some embodiments, the patient lift may include an attachment member such as a hook-and-loop fastener (e.g., Velcro) such that at least a portion of the handle is in the storage configuration when attached to an inflatable mattress via the hook-and-loop fastener.

[0052] In some embodiments, the handle comprises a rigid material. The handle can be in a fixed position in a use configuration. For example, the handle can extend from the side wall of the patient lift device when in a use configuration. In some embodiments, at least one handle comprises a compressible material such that at least one handle can be in a compressed state in a retractable configuration and in a relaxed state in a use configuration. In the compressed state, at least one handle extends away from the patient lift device to a finite point; in the relaxed state, at least one handle extends to a point further away from the patient lift device than in the compressed state. In some embodiments, in a use configuration, one or more handles can be securely attached to the patient lift device at a connection point, and at least a portion of the handle is movable relative to the patient lift device. For example, in some embodiments, the handle is configured as a flexible ring. These rings can be removably attached to the patient lift device and have a fixed connection point in use, while another portion of the ring is movable, allowing the user to manipulate the rings to better grip the handle to move the patient lift device.

[0053] The patient lift device may include at least one handle and at least one strap. Each or at least one of the at least one handle and at least one strap may be removably attached to another part of the patient lift device. Each or at least one of the at least one handle and at least one strap may be configured such that at least one handle or strap is received by a receiving component, such as by a pocket on the patient lift device, when in a retracted configuration.

[0054] In some embodiments, the patient lifting device includes a skirt extending around the periphery of the patient lifting device, wherein at least one opening is defined in the skirt, and at least one handle and / or at least one strap can be (e.g., arranged / configured) at least partially received by the at least one skirt opening in a receiving configuration. For example, at least one handle or strap can (e.g., arranged / configured) pass through the skirt opening in a receiving configuration.

[0055] It should be understood that the other part of the patient lifting device is generally all the components of the patient lifting device other than the straps (e.g., removably attached straps) and / or the handles (e.g., removably attached handles), wherein “all components” includes any and all other features of the patient lifting device described elsewhere herein. In any case, “the other part” is at least one component of the patient lifting device other than the straps (e.g., removably attached straps) and / or the handles (e.g., removably attached handles).

[0056] One or more markings may be provided on the uppermost surface of the patient lift device to indicate one or more predetermined positions on the patient lift device. These one or more positions may include at least one of the following: the centerline of the patient lift device; the expected patient head position; the expected patient torso position; the expected patient abdomen position; the expected patient leg position; the expected patient midline position; and the expected patient foot position. The patient may be a typical adult, such as an adult male or adult female. The patient may be a child, such as an infant.

[0057] The inflatable component can be arranged as a mattress, a backrest, or other component that can support the patient or parts of the patient's body. An inflatable component arranged as a backrest can be configured to support the patient's back during use. In some embodiments, the inflatable component arranged as a backrest can be inflated by a removably attached air pump connected via an air inlet on the backrest, rather than by a removably attached air pump connected to an air inlet on a different inflatable component within the patient lifting device.

[0058] In some embodiments, the backrest may be removably attached to another inflatable component. In some embodiments, the inflatable component arranged as a backrest may be indirectly inflated via air inlets on different inflatable components, and the backrest inflatable component may be in fluid communication with at least one other inflatable component. In some embodiments, the backrest inflatable component may not be in fluid communication with another inflatable component on the patient lifting device.

[0059] The inflatable backrest component can be configured to be removably attached to another inflatable component, which includes an air-permeable portion and a removably attached cover disposed on the air-permeable portion. This additional inflatable component can be configured to receive the removably attached inflatable backrest component when the removably attached cover is removed, thereby establishing a fluid communication path between the inflatable backrest component and the other inflatable component. For example, the backrest can be configured to be removably attached to another inflatable component configured as a mattress, which includes an air-permeable portion on which a removably attached cover is disposed. The removably attached cover can seal the air-permeable portion when disposed on it, allowing the mattress to remain inflated during use. When the cover is removed, the air-permeable portion can receive the removably attached inflatable backrest, thereby establishing a fluid communication path between the inflatable backrest portion and the inflatable component configured as a mattress below it, and the backrest can be inflated through the established fluid communication path.

[0060] An inflatable component configured as a backrest may include at least one elongated structure. This at least one elongated structure may extend horizontally between a first sidewall and a second sidewall of the backrest. This provides structural rigidity to the entire backrest. The backrest may include multiple inflatable compartments. The backrest may be arranged in an accordion shape. Each inflatable compartment may share a common wall with adjacent inflatable compartments. The common wall may include at least one air-permeable area, and an airflow path between adjacent compartments is defined through this at least one air-permeable area. Each compartment in the backrest may be inflated sequentially. The permeability of the first common wall may be greater than that of the second common wall. Therefore, the first compartment may be filled with the same amount of air faster than the second compartment. The compartment with the elongated structure is filled with air more slowly than the compartment without the elongated structure. An airflow path through at least adjacent compartments may be defined through the air-permeable area of ​​the common wall. An airflow path through at least adjacent compartments may be defined through the air-permeable area on the elongated structure within the compartment.

[0061] The patient lift may also include multiple wheels. These wheels may be arranged at the bottom of the patient lift, allowing operation of the lift using wheels. Each wheel may extend from the bottom to a wheel depth. The patient lift may also include a bottom inflatable component configured such that, when inflated, the bottom inflatable component extends downward below the wheel depth, thereby restricting movement of the patient lift on a flat surface via the wheels; and when at least partially deflated, the bottom inflatable component allows movement of the patient lift on a flat surface via the wheels. Therefore, since the operation of the patient lift itself requires an air pump, this air pump can also be used to switch the patient lift between a movable configuration and a braking configuration, in which the patient lift can move via the wheels, and in a braking configuration, the patient lift cannot move via the wheels. The multiple wheels may be removably attached to the bottom. The multiple wheels may be received on the bottom via any suitable receiving component, such as multiple corresponding holders or cartridges, which may be securely attached to the bottom and configured to receive the multiple wheels.

[0062] The patient lifting device may also include a sensor configured to output a sensor signal relating to the degree of inflation within the chamber of at least one inflatable component. At least one inflatable component may include the sensor. For example, the sensor may be located within the chamber of at least one inflatable component.

[0063] In another aspect, a system is provided comprising: a patient lift as described above; a removably attached air pump; a sensor arranged to output a sensor signal indicating the degree of inflation of the patient lift; and a controller for controlling the removably attached air pump, wherein the controller is configured to control the air output of the removably attached air pump based on the sensor signal. For example, the sensor may be configured to send a signal to the controller when a predetermined maximum pressure is detected in a chamber of an inflatable component, and the controller subsequently shuts off the air pump. In embodiments including multiple inflatable components, each inflatable component has at least one sensor, and each inflatable component in the patient lift may be inflated sequentially (i.e., one at a time) or controlled to inflate simultaneously as needed. Thus, the system can be automatically controlled to inflate the patient lift in the desired manner. In some embodiments, the system may be arranged such that all inflatable components in the patient lift of the system include sensors, and all inflatable components are inflated based on sensor signals provided to the controller. In an alternative implementation, the system can be arranged such that only a selected number of inflatable components in the patient lift include sensors. In other words, not every inflatable component of the patient lift needs to have a sensor. By integrating the sensors and controller into a system with a patient lift, over-inflation of the patient lift can be avoided. Furthermore, because inflation is automatically controlled, less work is required for caregivers using the device.

[0064] The system may also include a transmitter for wired data communication with sensors and a receiver for wired data communication with a removably attached air pump. The system can be configured to control the air output of the removably attached air pump via transmission between the transmitter and receiver. The controller can be configured separately from the removably attached air pump (e.g., with a patient lift), in which case the controller needs to send control signals to the removably attached air pump via the transmitter and receiver. Alternatively, the controller can be configured with the removably attached air pump (e.g., in wired data communication with it), in which case the controller needs to receive sensor signals via the transmitter and receiver. Therefore, the system can be controlled from either the patient lift or the air pump, providing flexibility in device manufacturing.

[0065] Inflatable components can be made from a range of different materials, such as thermoplastics, including but not limited to nylon and polyester. These materials can be coated with, for example, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Inflatable components may primarily comprise one material. For example, PVC can constitute more than 50% of the material composition of an inflatable component, or even the entire material composition. Patient lifts may also incorporate Kevlar® and other polyaramid fiber thermoplastics. These materials are highly durable and provide strength to the patient lift. They are able to withstand high temperatures and are abrasion resistant. Patient lifts can be constructed using high-frequency welding and / or heat sealing techniques or any other suitable fasteners.

[0066] In all embodiments, the patient lifting device may include an inflatable component arranged as a mattress, pillow, back support, or support for any other part of the body.

[0067] The patient lifting device may include accessories that are removably attached to or securely fastened to at least one inflatable component. These accessories may include at least one handle, at least one securing strap, and at least one mattress protector.

[0068] According to another aspect, a patient lifting device comprising a plurality of inflatable components is provided. Each of the plurality of inflatable components includes a first portion having an outer periphery and a second portion having an outer periphery. The outer peripheries of the first portion and the second portion are connected to define a chamber therein. The patient lifting device also includes one or more ports, each port being disposed through a wall of one of the plurality of inflatable components. The patient lifting device also includes at least one strap for securing a patient to an inflatable patient transfer mattress, wherein the at least one strap is removably attached to another portion of the inflatable patient transfer mattress and / or at least partially configured to be received by a receiving component on the other portion of the inflatable patient transfer mattress.

[0069] According to another aspect, a patient lifting device comprising a plurality of inflatable components is provided. Each of the plurality of inflatable components includes a first portion having an outer periphery and a second portion having an outer periphery. The outer peripheries of the first portion and the second portion are connected to define a chamber therein. The patient lifting device also includes one or more ports, each port being disposed through a wall of one of the plurality of inflatable components. The patient lifting device also includes at least one handle, wherein the at least one handle is removably attached to another portion of an inflatable patient transfer mattress and / or at least partially configured to be received by a receiving component on the other portion of the inflatable patient transfer mattress.

[0070] It should be understood that, for all the above embodiments, the degree of inflation can be changed by changing the amount of air pumped into the device, and thus the height of the patient lifting device can be changed.

[0071] It should be understood that, unless inherently incompatible, any feature described with respect to one or more aspects above can be combined with any other aspect described above. Attached Figure Description

[0072] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the following accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C These are, respectively, a perspective view of a patient lifting device according to an example of the present disclosure, a cross-sectional view of an inflatable component of the patient lifting device, and a perspective view of a lifting device including a bottom with wheels.

[0073] Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C , Figure 2D , Figure 2E , Figure 2F , Figure 2G and Figure 2H This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an embodiment of a patient lifting device according to an example of this disclosure, and Figure 2I This is an exploded perspective view of a portion of a patient lifting device according to an example of this disclosure.

[0074] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C These are, respectively, a perspective view of a patient lifting device according to an example of the present disclosure, a cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of a patient lifting device, and a perspective view of a patient lifting device with a cover thereon.

[0075] Figure 4 It is a system diagram based on the system disclosed herein. Detailed Implementation

[0076] According to embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1AAs shown, a patient lift device 100 is provided, comprising a plurality of inflatable components 110, specifically inflatable components 111, 112, 113, and 114 stacked on top of each other. Therefore, the patient lift device may be referred to as a four-layer patient lift device. During manufacturing, the inflatable components may be attached to each other by high-frequency welding, heat sealing, or other processes, or by attachment methods such as adhesives. Each inflatable component has an outlet 120, an inlet 130, and a housing 140 that can accommodate a removably attached air pump 150. The housing is arranged as a sealed compartment within the cavity of the inflatable component, which receives the removably attached air pump therein. In this arrangement, the removably attached air pump can be inserted into the housing, and when the inlet 130 is opened, the air pump can inflate the cavity of the inflatable component. The patient lifting device has an additional inflatable component arranged as a backrest 115, which is fluidly connected to the inflatable component 114 via a common wall including an air-permeable area (not shown), allowing air to flow through the air-permeable area and thus between the chambers of the inflatable component 114 and the inflatable backrest 115. An air inlet 130 and an air outlet 120 are each arranged as orifices with covers for opening and closing, and are arranged to allow an externally removably attached air pump to be attached to each orifice via the air pump's nozzle. A strap 116 is included on the uppermost inflatable component 114 for securing the patient to the lifting device in use. The strap can be removably attached to the device and can be attached by any means. In this embodiment, Velcro straps 117 are arranged on the sidewall of the inflatable component 114, which removably receive straps 116 during use. Multiple straps can be arranged on any inflatable component, configured to securely fasten the patient to the device during use.

[0077] Figure 1BA cross-sectional view of the lowermost inflatable component 111 of the patient lift device is shown. The inflatable component 111 has a first portion 170 on its lowermost surface. The first portion 170 has an outer periphery 175 defining the first portion 170. The inflatable component 111 has a second portion 180 on its uppermost surface. The second portion 180 has an outer periphery 185 defining the second portion 180. The inflatable component 111 has four sidewalls that, together with the first portion 170 and the second portion 180, define a chamber sealed within the inflatable component 111 when all inlets and outlets are closed. The first portion 170 of the lowermost inflatable component 111 in the patient lift device 100 does not allow air to pass through it. The second portion 180 of the inflatable component 111 (located on the upper side of the lowermost inflatable component) has an air-permeable region including a plurality of one-way valves 181. The air-permeable region is arranged to define a series of orifices in the second portion 180. The one-way valves 181 in the air-permeable region are arranged as caps that move between an open position and a closed position above the orifices. When a positive airflow flows upward from the air inlet 130 of the inflatable component through the chamber, the cap opens and allows air to flow through the orifices. When the positive airflow flowing upward through the chamber of the inflatable component is removed, the cap closes the orifices. In this way, the degree of inflation of each layer can be controlled. The lowermost inflatable component 111 of the patient lifting device 100 shares a common wall with the inflatable component 112 stacked on top of the inflatable component 111. This common wall is shared between the second portion 180 of the inflatable component 111 and the first (lowest) portion of the inflatable component 112. A one-way valve 181 allows air to flow between the chambers of each adjacent inflatable component. An internal airflow passage 160 in the form of a manifold 160 is defined within the chamber of the inflatable component 111. The internal airflow passage 160 extends from the inlet 130 to the end sidewall of the inflatable component 111. A plurality of orifices 161 are evenly distributed throughout the central section of the internal airflow passage to evenly distribute air from the inlet into the chamber. This helps control airflow within the chamber and helps prevent the device from "ballooning" (bulging). The internal airflow passage may be present in each inflatable component of the patient lift device, in selected inflatable components of the patient lift device, or only in the lowermost inflatable component of the patient lift device.

[0078] In use, a removably attached air pump 150 is placed within a housing compartment 140, which is sealed, and the inlet 130 and outlet 120 are also sealed. The removably attached air pump 150 has an opening that allows air to enter and exit the chamber of the inflatable component. At this time, the patient lift 100 is in a fully deflated state. The patient then lies or sits on the patient lift 100. Once the patient is safely placed on the device, the removably attached air pump 150 is activated, and the first inflatable component 111 of the patient lift 100 begins to inflate. The flow rate of the removably attached air pump 150 can be adjusted according to the desired degree of inflation. As the first inflatable component 111 begins to inflate, the airflow pressure from the air pump opens a one-way valve 181 in the common wall shared between the first inflatable component 111 and the second inflatable component 112. Therefore, air can travel from the first inflatable component 111 through the one-way valve 181 and into the chamber of the adjacent inflatable component, thereby also inflating the second inflatable component 112.

[0079] The remaining inflatable components 113, 114 and the integral inflatable backrest component 115 are also inflated in the same manner, with each adjacent inflatable component sharing a common wall. Thus, a fluid communication path is established through each of the inflatable components 111, 112, 113, and 114 via each common wall and a one-way valve defined therein. This particular arrangement of the patient lift device requires only a removably attached air pump 150 and an air inlet to inflate the entire device, achieving controlled inflation of the patient lift device.

[0080] In some implementations, one or more inflatable components may not share a fluid communication path with adjacent inflatable components. In this arrangement, each individual inflatable component can be inflated only through a corresponding air inlet connected to the inflatable component or a removably attached air pump located within a housing that provides a sealable port to a chamber within the inflatable component. In this way, each inflatable component that does not share a fluid communication path with adjacent inflatable components can be inflated independently of its neighbors. Each inflatable component can be inflated by a corresponding inlet connected to the inflatable component or by a corresponding removably attached air pump located within a corresponding housing within the inflatable component, the housing being sealably connected to the chamber of the respective inflatable component.

[0081] At any point during inflation, the user can interrupt the flow of air into the device by manually turning the air pump on and off. Sensors can be integrated into the chambers of any one or more inflatable components to monitor, for example, the pressure in any chamber within the device. The sensors then transmit the pressure information to a controller, which automatically adjusts the flow rate provided by the air pump. Therefore, each inflatable component can achieve the desired inflation level.

[0082] Figure 1C A patient lift device 100 is shown, which includes four inflatable components 111, 112, 113, and 114, as well as an additional inflatable bottom component 190, which is positioned as the lowest inflatable component when the patient lift device 100 is in use. For ease of reference, the backrest 115 of the patient lift device is omitted in this figure. The inflatable bottom component 190 has a plurality of wheels 191 attached to its upper wall (not shown). When inflated, the bottom 190 extends downward beyond the depth of the wheels 191 to form outriggers 192. Figure 1C The patient lift 100 is shown when the inflatable bottom component 190 is fully inflated. In this configuration, when the inflatable bottom component 190 is fully inflated, the outriggers 192 of the bottom 190 extend beyond the depth of the wheels 191, thus restricting or even completely preventing the patient lift 100 from moving laterally along the ground. At this time, the wheels 191 leave the ground and therefore cannot roll along the ground, thus preventing the patient lift 100 from moving. Figure 1D The patient lifting device 100 is shown when the inflatable bottom component 190 is at least partially deflated. In this configuration, the outriggers 192 are shortened (in this respect, Figure 1D (Not drawn to scale), so the wheels 191 are in contact with the ground, while the outriggers 192 are off the ground. The patient lift 100 can thus roll along the ground and be used as a portable bed.

[0083] In some implementations, an elongated structure is added to the chamber of one or more inflatable components to prevent the inflatable components from bulging by providing support and structure to the chamber. Figures 2A to 2H This is a cross-sectional view of a patient lifting device 200 having four inflatable components 211, 212, 213, and 214, including an elongated structure 215 arranged in different ways. The elongated structure extends between a first portion 280 and a second portion 290 of the chambers within the inflatable components. The elongated structure 215 includes a first elongated structural region 286 and a second elongated structural region 296. Figures 2C to 2D In the inflatable component 212, the first elongated structural region 286 and the second elongated structural region 296 constitute the air-permeable regions of the first part 280 and the second part 290. Figure 2AOnly two elongated structures in each inflatable component of the multi-level patient lift device are shown; however, it should be understood that this is only a cross-section of a small portion of the inflatable component, and therefore there can be many more elongated structures within the chambers of the inflatable components. These elongated structures can be evenly distributed within the chambers, or they can be arranged with a higher distribution density in the areas of the inflatable component that will bear most of the weight of the patient using the device, such as centrally located within the chambers.

[0084] exist Figure 2A In the arrangement shown, all elongated structures 215 are aligned such that each of the inflatable components 211, 212, 213, 214 is stacked on top of each other. In this arrangement, each elongated structure 215 has at least one opening 216 located in at least one sidewall of the elongated structure 215. In this manner, each inflatable component 211, 212, 213, 214 within the device 200 can be independently inflated through an air inlet located on the sidewall of the inflatable component, and there is no airflow between adjacent inflatable components. Air enters the chamber of each inflatable component through the corresponding air inlet on the inflatable component. Air from the chamber can enter each elongated structure through the sidewall opening 216 on the elongated structure 215 and flow back through the same opening in that sidewall or another opening in one or more sidewalls (if present). Therefore, each elongated structure 215 within an inflatable component can be filled with air, but there is no air transfer between the inflatable components themselves.

[0085] Figure 2B It shows the relationship with Figure 2A The arrangement of a similar elongated structure 215 differs in that each common wall 217 shared between the inflatable components has an air-permeable region 218 defined therein. This air-permeable region 218 is separate from the elongated structure 215. In this way, a fluid communication path is established between the inflatable components 211, 212, 213, and 214, which does not pass through the elongated structure 215. Therefore, a single removably attached air pump, such as one attached to an air inlet in an inflatable component 211, can allow air to flow throughout the entire patient lift 200, as air can travel between adjacent inflatable components through the openings 218 in the common wall.

[0086] Figure 2CAir is allowed to flow through the entire device 200 via a fluid communication path established through each aligned elongated structure 215. Air can flow from an inlet, such as an inlet in the inflatable component 211, through a sidewall orifice 216, and then upward through the aligned elongated structures 215 via a first elongated structure region 286 and a second elongated structure region 296, each elongated structure region having an air-permeable area defined therein, as shown by dashed lines. In addition to having a fluid communication path upward through the elongated structures 215 in adjacent inflatable components, air can also travel through the sidewalls in each elongated structure 215 to fill the chamber of the corresponding inflatable structure.

[0087] Figure 2D Similar to Figure 2C The arrangement shown differs in that there is no fluid communication path between inflatable component 213 and inflatable component 214. In this arrangement, to inflate inflatable component 214, it must be inflated through an air inlet on inflatable component 214, because otherwise, this inflatable component is isolated from the three inflatable components 211, 212, and 213 below it. It should be understood that by changing the arrangement of the air-permeable area through the elongated structure in this way, the different inflatable components can be isolated. For example, by removing the air-permeable area from the elongated structure sharing a first common wall, the first inflatable component 211 can be isolated from the three inflatable components above it.

[0088] Figure 2E and Figure 2C The common feature of the arrangement shown is that air-permeable areas 286 and 296 exist in the common wall shared by each adjacent inflatable component 211, 212, 213, and 214. This arrangement is similar to... Figure 2C The difference in the arrangement is that, in only three of the four inflatable components, the elongated structure 215 has orifices 216 in its sidewalls. The elongated structure 215 in inflatable component 212 does not include sidewall orifices. Therefore, the airflow path through the elongated structure 215 is established by passing through the orifices 218 on the sidewall of the elongated structure 215 and upwards through the air-permeable regions 286, 296 of the adjacent inflatable components. This airflow path allows the chambers of inflatable components 211, 213, and 214 to be filled. The chamber of inflatable component 212 can also be filled with air because an air-permeable region 218 is defined in the common wall shared between inflatable components 211 and 212.

[0089] Figure 2F Similar to Figure 2EThe arrangement shown differs in that the uppermost inflatable component 214 is isolated from the three inflatable components 211, 212, and 213 below it. This is because no air-permeable area is defined in the uppermost common wall shared by inflatable components 213 and 214. To allow air to flow between the chambers of the third inflatable component 213 and the fourth inflatable component 214, an air-permeable area 218 is defined in the common wall shared by inflatable components 213 and 214.

[0090] Figure 2G and Figure 2H The arrangement of elongated structures 215 within inflatable components 211, 212, 213, and 214 is shown, wherein the elongated structures 215 in adjacent inflatable components 211, 212, 213, and 214 are misaligned. Figure 2G and Figure 2H The two arrangements in each inflatable component 211, 212, 213, 214 have at least one opening 216 in one or more sidewalls of each elongated structure 215. Figure 2G In the arrangement shown, each elongated structure 215 of each of the inflatable components 211, 212, 213, 214 has a second elongated structural region 296 defined therein, which is an air-permeable area. Therefore, air can travel through the air-permeable area defined in each second elongated structural region 296 into the chamber of the adjacent inflatable component, and then through an opening 216 in the sidewall of the elongated structure. In this way, a fluid communication path throughout the entire patient lifting device can be established using only one removably attached air pump connected to an air inlet on the lowermost inflatable component 211. Figure 2H In the arrangement shown, instead of establishing a fluid communication path through adjacent elongated structures 215, a fluid communication path is established through an air-permeable region 218 defined in a common wall shared between adjacent inflatable components 211, 212, 213, and 214. Therefore, in this arrangement, the air-permeable region is separated from the first and second elongated structure regions.

[0091] Figure 2I An exploded view of a portion of the inflatable component 212 is shown, comprising a total of eighteen elongated structures 215 arranged in six rows of three. In this view, it can be seen that the first elongated structure region 286 and the second elongated structure region 296 are respectively defined within their respective first portions 280 and second portions 290 of the inflatable component 200.

[0092] The device may also include air inlets located in any number of inflatable components, and filling does not necessarily need to begin from the air inlet of the lowest inflatable component. In use, the device can be deflated by opening the air outlet or by connecting to a removably attached air pump capable of extracting air from the device. With such a removably attached air pump in operation, air is removed individually from each inflatable component if each inflatable component is isolated from each other, or air is removed from the entire device if a fluid communication path allowing air to flow outwards is established between each inflatable component.

[0093] Figure 3A A perspective view of a patient lifting device 300 is shown, in which multiple inflatable components 311, 312, 313, and 314 are stacked on top of each other. Each of the four inflatable components 311, 312, 313, and 314 is arranged such that a first channel extends in a first lateral direction indicated by arrow 1 between the outer periphery of a first portion and the outer periphery of a second portion of the inflatable component, and a second channel extends in a second lateral direction indicated by arrow 2 between the outer periphery of the first portion and the outer periphery of the second portion of the inflatable component, intersecting with the first channel at intersection point P. This arrangement can be considered a grid-type structure. Each inflatable component 311, 312, 313, and 314 also has a peripheral channel 320, with only the peripheral channel 320 of the uppermost inflatable component 314 shown. The peripheral channel 320 extends around the periphery of the inflatable component 314, including the outer periphery connecting the first and second portions of the inflatable component.

[0094] Figure 3B An enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of the patient lifting device 300 is shown. Each inflatable component 311, 312, 313, 314, arranged in a grid structure, has a concave portion 330 located within at least one of the first or second channels. The portions of the inflatable components arranged in the grid-type structure shown have two intersection points (labeled P) where the first and second channels intersect. The concave portion 330 has a corresponding convex portion (not shown). Thus, each inflatable component 311, 312, 313, 314 in the patient lifting device 300 has a corresponding concave and convex portion. Each concave portion supports a corresponding convex portion of the channel positioned above it. In this way, the grid arrangement structure is rigid and stable, and a good connection is formed between each inflatable component 311, 312, 313, 314.

[0095] Similar to other embodiments of patient lifting devices described, each inflatable component, constructed using intersecting first and second channels arranged in a grid pattern, may have one or more air inlets and one or more air outlets, and a fluid communication path may be established between each inflatable component via a shared air-permeable area. Air inlets may be located at the end of either the first or second channel, or within a peripheral channel. Each inflatable component may also include a housing with communicating channels for accommodating a removably attached air pump.

[0096] The patient lift device 300 may also have a cover that is configured to cover at least the uppermost inflatable component when in use, thereby providing additional comfort for the patient lying on the device. The cover may cover only the uppermost inflatable component, or it may cover the entire device and seal it, so that when the device is inflated, air fills not only the inflatable component but also the gaps between the mesh structures. In this way, the patient lift device is very stable and comfortable to use. Figure 3C A device 300 is shown with a cover 340 covering the entire patient lift mechanism. Therefore, the patient lift mechanism is sealed. Air can enter the patient lift mechanism through an inlet on the peripheral passage 321 of the device, thereby supplying air to the lowermost inflatable component 311 and the gap defined between the communicating channels of each inflatable component. Each inflatable component 311, 312, 313, 314 has an air-permeable area defined in a common wall between each of the four inflatable components 311, 312, 313, 314. Therefore, all inflatable components 311, 312, 313, 314 can be filled with air, except for the gaps between the communicating channels, thereby making the device very stable.

[0097] Figure 4This is a system diagram illustrating system 400, which includes a patient lift device (not labeled) according to an embodiment of the invention, and includes multiple components 410 that communicate data with a controller 440. These components include a sensor 420 and a removably attached air pump 430. The controller 440 is configured to exchange signals 470 with the sensor and signals 480 with the removably attached air pump 430. In this example, the controller 440 is implemented by one or more processors 450 and a computer-readable memory 460. The memory 460 is a non-transient computer-readable memory. The memory 460 stores instructions that, when executed by one or more processors 450, cause the patient lift device to operate as described herein. The sensor 420 may be integrated into a chamber of at least one inflatable component of the patient lift device. The removably attached air pump 430 may be integrated into a housing within a chamber of one inflatable component of the patient lift device, or may be connected to a port on the inflatable component of the device. The sensor 420 may be a pressure sensor or a flow sensor. One or more sensors of different types may be present in each inflatable component within the device. The controller 440 processes the data received from the sensors 420 and can accordingly automatically adjust the airflow from the removably attached air pump 430. This automatic control depends on predetermined values ​​set on the controller 440, which means, for example, if the desired pressure is reached in a particular or all inflatable components, the controller 440 shuts off the air pump 430 or changes the flow rate. For example, when a patient is lying on the device and the operator of the system turns on the removably attached air pump 430, the patient lift begins to inflate. When a predetermined pressure is reached in the corresponding inflatable component and recorded by the sensor 420, the sensor 420 conveys this information to the controller 440, and the controller 440 shuts off the air pump 430. Thus, the patient lift is not inflated beyond the desired predetermined amount. Although the controller is shown herein as implemented in a single component, those skilled in the art will understand that the functionality of the controller can be easily distributed among multiple components to provide a distributed controller.

[0098] In general, a patient lift device (100) is provided comprising a plurality of inflatable components (110). Each of the plurality of inflatable components (111, 112, 113, 114) includes a first portion (170) having an outer periphery (175) and a second portion (180) having an outer periphery (185). The outer periphery of the first portion (175) is connected to the outer periphery of the second portion (185) to define a chamber therein. The patient lift device (100) also includes one or more ports (120, 130), each port being disposed through a wall of one of the plurality of inflatable components and arranged to be connected to a removably attached air pump (150) for moving air between the chamber of one of the inflatable components and the external environment of the patient lift device (100).

[0099] In the specification and claims of this application, the words “comprising” and “including” and their variations mean “including but not limited to”, and they are not intended to exclude or preclude other components, integers, or steps. In the specification and claims of this application, the singular form covers the plural case unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, this application should be understood to consider both the plural and singular cases unless the context otherwise requires.

[0100] Features, integers, characteristics, or groups described in connection with a particular aspect, embodiment, or example of the invention should be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment, or example described herein, unless incompatible with it. All features disclosed in this application (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings) and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed may be combined in any combination, except where at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not limited to the details of any of the foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel feature or any novel combination of features disclosed in this application (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings), or to any novel step or any novel combination of steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. A patient lifting device, comprising: A plurality of inflatable components, each of the plurality of inflatable components including a first portion having an outer periphery and a second portion having an outer periphery, wherein the outer periphery of the first portion and the outer periphery of the second portion are connected to define a chamber therein; and One or more ports, each port being disposed through a wall of one of the plurality of inflatable components, and each port being arranged to be connected to a removably attached air pump for moving air between the chamber of one of the inflatable components and the external environment of the patient lifting device.

2. The patient lifting device according to claim 1, wherein, The patient lifting device also includes a housing for receiving the removably attached air pump.

3. The patient lifting device according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, At least one of the inflatable components is arranged to form at least one first channel inside, the at least one first channel extending in a first lateral direction between the outer periphery of the first portion and the outer periphery of the second portion of the inflatable component.

4. The patient lifting device according to claim 3, wherein, The interior of at least one of the inflatable components is further arranged to form at least one second channel, which intersects the at least one first channel at the outer periphery of the first portion and the outer periphery of the second portion of the inflatable component away from the inflatable component, and the at least one second channel extends in a second lateral direction between the outer periphery of the first portion and the outer periphery of the second portion of the inflatable component.

5. The patient lifting device according to claim 4, wherein, Each of the plurality of adjacent inflatable components in the patient lifting device is internally arranged to form at least one first channel and at least one second channel, wherein the at least one first channel and at least one second channel of the first adjacent inflatable component are stacked on top of the corresponding at least one first channel and at least one second channel of the second adjacent inflatable component adjacent to the first adjacent inflatable component.

6. The patient lifting device according to claim 5, wherein, The second adjacent inflatable component includes a concave portion of at least one of the at least one first channel and the at least one second channel, the concave portion being configured to support the at least one first channel and the at least one second channel of the first adjacent inflatable component.

7. The patient lifting device according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a cover disposed on the plurality of said inflatable components, optionally, wherein, The cover is arranged to seal the patient lifting device.

8. The patient lifting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The plurality of the inflatable components are configured such that a fluid communication path is defined between the chambers of at least two adjacent inflatable components.

9. The patient lifting device of claim 8, further comprising a wall, wherein the fluid communication path is defined through the wall.

10. The patient lifting device according to claim 9, wherein, The wall is a common wall shared between each pair of adjacent inflatable components in at least two adjacent inflatable components.

11. The patient lifting device according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein, The wall includes at least one air-permeable region, and the fluid communication path is defined to pass through at least one of the air-permeable regions.

12. The patient lifting device according to claim 11, wherein, Each of at least two adjacent inflatable components includes at least one of the said air-permeable areas.

13. The patient lifting device according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein, The air-permeable area includes a one-way valve.

14. The patient lifting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The chamber of at least one of the plurality of inflatable components includes at least one elongated structure that extends between the first portion and the second portion of at least one of the inflatable components.

15. The patient lifting device according to claim 14, wherein, At least one of the elongated structures in at least one of the inflatable components includes a first elongated structure region disposed in the first portion of at least one of the inflatable components, and includes a second elongated structure region disposed in the second portion of at least one of the inflatable components.

16. The patient lifting device according to claim 15, which is dependent on claim 11, wherein, At least a portion of the air-permeable area forms part of at least one of the elongated structures.

17. A patient lifting device, comprising: A plurality of inflatable components, each of the inflatable components including a first portion having an outer periphery and a second portion having an outer periphery, wherein the outer periphery of the first portion and the outer periphery of the second portion are connected to define a chamber therein, and wherein the plurality of inflatable components are arranged such that there is a fluid communication path between the chambers of at least two adjacent inflatable components. One or more ports, each port being disposed through a wall of one of the plurality of inflatable components, and each port being configured to allow air to enter the chamber of the respective inflatable component; and At least one elongated structure is disposed in the chamber of at least one of the inflatable components, and at least one of the elongated structures extends between the first portion and the second portion. The elongated structure includes an air-permeable region, and the fluid communication path is defined to pass through the air-permeable region at least partially.

18. The patient lifting device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising four inflatable components, each of the four inflatable components sharing a common wall with an adjacent inflatable component, each of the four inflatable components including at least one port configured to allow air to enter a chamber of the respective inflatable component, and each of the common walls including an air-permeable area.

19. The patient lifting device according to any of the preceding claims dependent on claim 10, wherein, The air permeability of the air-permeable area of ​​the first common wall is greater than that of the air permeable area of ​​the second common wall.

20. The patient lifting device according to claim 19, wherein, The air permeability of the air-permeable area of ​​the first common wall is more than 15% higher than that of the air permeable area of ​​the second common wall.

21. The patient lifting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the inflatable components includes at least two ports, the at least two ports being at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet.

22. The patient lifting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an internal airflow passage is defined in the patient lifting device, the internal airflow passage extending from the port and opening into the cavity at a location in the cavity remote from the port.

23. The patient lifting device according to any one of the preceding claims further includes: Multiple wheels are located at the bottom of the patient lifting device, and the multiple wheels extend from the bottom to a wheel depth; And a bottom inflatable component, the bottom inflatable component being configured to: When inflated, the bottom inflatable component extends downwards below the wheel depth, thereby restricting the patient lifting device from moving on flat ground via the wheels; and When at least partially deflated, the bottom inflatable component allows the patient lifting device to move on a flat surface via the wheels.

24. The patient lifting device according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a sensor configured to output a sensor signal relating to the degree of inflation within the cavity of at least one of the inflatable components.

25. A system comprising: The patient lifting device according to claim 24; A ground-attached air pump; as well as A controller is used to control the removably attached air pump. The controller is configured to control the air output of the removably attached air pump based on the sensor signal.

26. The system of claim 25, further comprising a transmitter for wired data communication with the sensor and a receiver for wired data communication with the removably attached air pump, wherein, The system is configured to control the air output of the removably attached air pump via a transmission between the transmitter and the receiver.

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