Overhead support assembly for a personnel lift system comprising a boom arm and a guide rail

Abstract

An overhead support assembly comprising: a boom arm having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end of the boom arm, the length of the boom arm being equal to or greater than 1500 mm and less than or equal to 1700 mm; a rail mounted to a lower wall of the boom arm, the rail having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end of the rail, the rail including a receiver, the length of the rail being equal to or greater than 1500 mm and less than or equal to 1700 mm; and a personnel lift system received within the receiver of the rail to translate along the rail between the first end and the second end of the rail.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of concurrently pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 728,524, filed December 5, 2024, entitled “Overhead Support Assembly Including Boom and Rails for Personnel Lifting System,” the entire contents of which, including the drawings, are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This specification generally relates to a personnel lifting system, and more specifically, to a personnel lifting system that can translate along the boom of an overhead support assembly. Background Technology

[0004] Lifting systems, such as personnel lifting systems that include lifting units (e.g., mobile lifts and / or overhead lifts), can be used in hospitals and other healthcare facilities to move personnel from one location to another or assist personnel in moving from one posture to another. Conventional lifting systems use slings or other lifting accessories to secure personnel to the system and use actuators to raise personnel to different heights or lower them to lower heights. In a typical example, a caregiver operates the lifting unit to lift a patient from a personnel support surface (e.g., a bed), repositions the patient to the desired location via the mobile lifting system, and then operates the lifting unit again to lower the patient to the destination.

[0005] Additionally, the elevated support assembly can be used to position service columns within the ward. The boom can extend between the service column and the ceiling mount to allow movement of the service column by positioning the boom. By incorporating the lifting system into the boom, less space can be occupied within the ward, thus providing additional space for medical staff and equipment.

[0006] A method is needed to allow such a lifting system to be mounted on the boom of a supporting service column. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one embodiment, an elevated support assembly includes: a boom having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end, the length of the boom being equal to or greater than 1500 mm and less than or equal to 1700 mm; a guide rail mounted to a lower wall of the boom, the guide rail having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end, the guide rail including a receiver, the length of the guide rail being equal to or greater than 1500 mm and less than or equal to 1700 mm; and a personnel lifting system receiving within the receiver of the guide rail for translation along the guide rail between the first end and the second end of the guide rail.

[0008] In another embodiment, an elevated support assembly includes: a mounting device; a first connecting member extending from the mounting device; a boom having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end, the boom being rotatably coupled to the first connecting member near the second end of the boom; a guide rail mounted to a lower wall of the boom, the guide rail having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end of the guide rail; a personnel lifting system received within the guide rail for translation along the guide rail between the first and second ends of the guide rail; a second connecting member extending from the boom near the first end of the boom; an auxiliary arm rotatably coupled to the second connecting member; and a service column rotatably coupled to the auxiliary arm near the end of the auxiliary arm opposite to the boom, wherein the distance between the first end of the boom and the center of the second connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm, and wherein the distance between the second end of the boom and the center of the first connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm.

[0009] In another embodiment, an elevated support assembly includes: a mounting device; a first connecting member extending from the mounting device; a boom having a first end and an opposing second end, the boom being rotatably coupled to the first connecting member near the second end of the boom; a second connecting member extending from the boom near the first end of the boom; an auxiliary arm rotatably coupled to the second connecting member; a service post rotatably coupled to the auxiliary arm near the end of the auxiliary arm opposite to the boom; a third connecting member extending from the mounting device and spaced apart from the first connecting member; and the second boom having a first end and an opposing second end of the boom. The second connecting member extends between the two ends of the boom arm, which is rotatably connected to the third connecting member near the second end of the boom arm; a guide rail is mounted to the lower wall of the second boom arm, the guide rail having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end of the guide rail; and a personnel lifting system is received within the guide rail to translate along the guide rail between the first end and the second end of the guide rail, wherein the distance between the first end of the boom arm and the center of the second connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm, and wherein the distance between the second end of the boom arm and the center of the first connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm.

[0010] These and additional features provided by the embodiments described herein will be more fully understood based on the following detailed description and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The embodiments described in the accompanying drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. When combined with the following appendix... Figure 1 As you read this, you will understand the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, wherein similar structures are indicated by similar reference numerals, and wherein:

[0012] Figure 1 A perspective view schematically depicting a person seated in a lifting accessory and suspended from a personnel lifting system of an overhead support assembly, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0013] Figure 2 The illustration schematically depicts one or more embodiments according to those shown and described herein. Figure 1 Front view of the elevated support components;

[0014] Figure 3 The illustration schematically depicts one or more embodiments according to those shown and described herein. Figure 1 A partial perspective view of the boom and guide rails of the elevated support assembly, with the end plates removed from the boom;

[0015] Figure 4 The illustration schematically depicts one or more embodiments according to those shown and described herein. Figure 1 A partial perspective view of the boom and guide rails of the elevated support assembly, including a protective cover installed inside the boom;

[0016] Figure 5 The illustration schematically depicts one or more embodiments according to those shown and described herein. Figure 1 Partial bottom view of the guide rails of the elevated support assembly;

[0017] Figure 6 The illustration schematically depicts one or more embodiments according to those shown and described herein. Figure 1 A partial perspective view of the boom and guide rails of the elevated support assembly, with the end plate removed from the guide rails;

[0018] Figure 7 An end view of a guide rail with endplate removed according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein is schematically depicted.

[0019] Figure 8 A partial perspective cross-sectional view of a lifting unit of a personnel lifting system with a connecting guide rail according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein is schematically depicted.

[0020] Figure 9 A front view schematically depicting another embodiment of an elevated support assembly according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0021] Figure 10 A front view of another embodiment of an elevated support assembly according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein is schematically depicted. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Embodiments of the elevated support assembly and methods of operating the elevated support assembly will now be described in detail, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. Where possible, the same reference numerals are used in all the drawings to denote the same or similar parts.

[0023] Examples of elevated support assemblies include a personnel lifting system that can translate along guide rails mounted to the underside of a boom that extends between mounting devices and service columns fixed to the ceiling or other support structure of the room.

[0024] Personnel lift systems are commonly used in patient care environments, such as hospitals and rehabilitation facilities, and allow caregivers to reposition individuals or change their posture while minimizing staff fatigue. In addition to personnel lift systems, one or more service columns may be provided within the same environment, requiring periodic repositioning of one or more service columns either independently of or in conjunction with the personnel lift system. Therefore, these movements can be dangerous for people in the environment and limit the amount of available space.

[0025] An elevated lifting support assembly that includes a boom arm for service columns offers significant benefits by allowing both the service columns and personnel lifting systems to translate along the boom arm. This dual-function system not only facilitates precise positioning of the mechanism around a specific location but also enables safe and efficient object handling without interference from floor wiring or equipment. By allowing the personnel lifting system to move along the same boom arm as the service columns, healthcare providers can seamlessly reposition both systems based on real-time needs, reducing the need for additional lifting equipment and optimizing workflows in critical care areas such as intensive care units and operating rooms.

[0026] A range may be expressed herein as from “about” a particular value and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from one particular value and / or to another particular value. Similarly, when numerical values ​​are expressed as approximate values ​​using the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular values ​​form another embodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each range are significant relative to and independent of the other endpoint.

[0027] The directional terms used in this article, such as up, down, right, left, front, back, top, and bottom, are used only for reference to the accompanying drawings and are not intended to imply absolute directions.

[0028] Unless otherwise expressly stated, no method described herein is intended to be construed as requiring its steps to be performed in a particular order, nor requiring any particular orientation of any apparatus. Therefore, no order or orientation is intended to be inferred in any way where a method claim does not actually describe the order in which its steps are to be followed, or where any apparatus claim does not actually describe the order or orientation of the components, or where the claims or description do not specifically indicate that the steps should be limited to a particular order, or where a particular order or orientation of the components of the apparatus is not described. This applies to any possible non-expressive basis of interpretation, including: logical questions relating to the arrangement of steps, the flow of operations, the order of components, or the orientation of components; simple meanings derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of embodiments described in the specification.

[0029] As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to the component “a” includes aspects having two or more such components unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0030] Now for reference Figure 1 The image illustrates an elevated support assembly 100 according to one or more embodiments described herein. The elevated support assembly 100 typically includes a mounting device 102, a boom 104 rotatably coupled to the mounting device 102, a guide rail 106 mounted to a lower wall 108 of the boom 104, and a personnel lifting system 110 translatable along the guide rail 106.

[0031] The mounting device 102 is shown mounted on the ceiling 112 of the room and includes a first connecting member 114 extending from the lower wall 116 of the mounting device 102. It should be understood that the mounting device 102 includes one or more fastening members to secure the mounting device 102 to the ceiling 112 and to accommodate the substantial weight exhibited by personnel supported by the personnel lifting system 110 and / or one or more accessories, as described in more detail herein.

[0032] The boom 104 is rotatably connected to the mounting device 102 via a first connecting member 114. Accordingly, the boom 104 can rotate relative to the mounting device 102 in one or more rotational directions. As described herein, a guide rail 106 is mounted to the lower wall 108 of the boom 104, and the personnel lifting system 110 is translatable along the guide rail 106. The boom 104 and the guide rail 106 are described in more detail herein.

[0033] The personnel lifting system 110 includes a lifting unit 118, a sling rod 120 connected to the lifting unit 118, and a lifting accessory 122 selectively connected to the sling rod 120. In the depicted embodiment, the lifting unit 118 translates along a guide rail 106, as described in more detail herein.

[0034] The lifting belt 124 is connected to the lifting unit 118 at its first end and is configured to retract or extend from the lifting unit 118. In an embodiment, a quick-release link, also known as a "Q-link" or connector link, is coupled to the free second end of the lifting belt 124, and the sling 120 is coupled to the quick-release link via fasteners.

[0035] The lifting unit 118 can receive input from caregivers via a control device (not shown) coupled to it. The control device may include a wired controller and / or one or more wireless controllers. For example, in one embodiment, the control device may be a wired controller (e.g., a pendant or the like), or alternatively, a controller integrated into the lifting unit 118. In some embodiments, the controller may communicate electronically with an electronic control unit of the sling 120. The electronic control unit may transmit control signals from the control device to the lifting unit 118. In another embodiment, the controller may be a wireless controller, such as a wireless manual controller and / or a wireless diagnostic monitor / controller. Based on the input received from the control device, the lifting unit 118 can selectively extend or retract the lifting belt 124.

[0036] Still referencing Figure 1 The lifting accessory 122 is connected to the sling rod 120 to support personnel. In various embodiments, the lifting accessory 122 may include a lifting sling, lifting vest, lifting belt, lifting sheet, or the like. Since the lifting accessory 122 is suspended below the sling rod 120, the weight of the personnel is supported by the sling rod 120. Other devices for supporting personnel or other loads are possible and within the scope of this invention.

[0037] In one embodiment, the boom 104 includes a second connecting member 126 for rotatably connecting the auxiliary arm 128 to the boom 104. Figure 1As shown, the service column 130 extends from the end of the auxiliary arm 128 opposite the boom arm 104. The service column 130 is a flexible, typically ceiling-mounted unit that houses essential medical facilities such as power outlets 131A, gas lines 131B (e.g., oxygen and anesthesia), data ports 131C, and sometimes lighting fixtures 131D. In embodiments, the service column 130 includes one or more cabinets or shelves 131E for storing medical supplies. Unlike fixed installations, the service column 130 can be repositioned along ceiling rails or extended from the movable arm, allowing healthcare providers to access essential services wherever needed within the room. This flexibility supports efficient patient care by enabling medical personnel to bring services to the patient's bedside, adjust room configurations, and easily adapt to different medical procedures or equipment layouts. In addition to maximizing space, the service column 130 also improves safety and reduces clutter by maintaining the elevation of ropes and hoses, minimizing the risk of tripping and creating a more streamlined environment. Their versatility is particularly valuable in high-demand environments such as emergency rooms, intensive care units, and operating rooms, where rapid adaptation to different procedures and patient needs is crucial.

[0038] Therefore, the service column 130, and consequently the auxiliary arm 128, are rotatably coupled to and can rotate relative to the boom arm 104. Movement of the auxiliary arm 128 and thus the service column 130 can be manually operated, for example by applying force in one or more rotational directions relative to the boom arm 104. Additionally, the service column 130 can be manually raised and lowered. Since the auxiliary arm 128 is vertically fixed relative to the boom arm 104, vertical movement of the service column 130 increases or decreases the distance between the upper end of the service column 130 and the auxiliary arm 128. In an embodiment, movement of the auxiliary arm 128 and / or the service column 130 can be inhibited by a braking mechanism. Therefore, in this embodiment, the braking mechanism is operated, for example by a person wishing to move the auxiliary arm 128 and / or the service column 130, to disengage the braking mechanism and allow movement of the auxiliary arm 128 and / or the service column 130. It should be understood that any suitable braking mechanism can be used and is within the scope of the invention.

[0039] Now for reference Figure 2The diagram illustrates an overhead support assembly 100, with the upper wall 132 of a guide rail 106 shown mounted to the lower wall 108 of a boom 104. The boom 104 includes one or more sidewalls 134, a first end 136, and a second end 138 opposite the first end 136. The one or more sidewalls 134 extend between the first end 136 and the second end 138. In an embodiment, a first end plate 140 is disposed on one or more sidewalls 134 at the first end 136, and a second end plate 142 is disposed on one or more sidewalls 134 at the second end 138. The boom 104 has any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as a square, rectangle, ellipse, etc. The boom 104 has a length L1 extending between the first end 136 and the second end 138. In an embodiment, the length L1 of the boom 104 is approximately 1300 millimeters (mm). In another embodiment, the length L1 of the boom 104 is equal to or greater than 1000 mm and less than or equal to 1600 mm. In one embodiment, the length L1 of the boom 104 is equal to or greater than 1100 mm and less than or equal to 1500 mm. In another embodiment, the length L1 of the boom 104 is equal to or greater than 1200 mm and less than or equal to 1400 mm. Furthermore, the center-to-center distance D1 between the first end 136 of the boom 104 and the second connecting member 126, and the center-to-center distance D2 between the second end 138 of the boom 104 and the first connecting member 114, are also specified. In one embodiment, distances D1 and D2 are each approximately 150 mm. In yet another embodiment, distances D1 and D2 are each equal to or greater than 100 mm and less than or equal to 200 mm.

[0040] The guide rail 106 includes one or more sidewalls 144, a first end 146, and a second end 148 opposite to the first end 146. The one or more sidewalls 144 extend between the first end 146 and the second end 148. In an embodiment, a first end plate 150 is disposed on the one or more sidewalls 144 at the first end 146, and a second end plate 152 is disposed on the one or more sidewalls 144 at the second end 148. The guide rail 106 has any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as a square, rectangle, ellipse, etc. As described in more detail herein, the guide rail 106 has a square cross-sectional shape. The guide rail 106 has a length L2 extending between the first end 146 and the second end 148. In an embodiment, the length L2 of the guide rail 106 is approximately 1600 mm. In an embodiment, the length L2 of the guide rail 106 is equal to or greater than 1300 mm and less than or equal to 1900 mm. In an embodiment, the length L2 of the guide rail 106 is equal to or greater than 1400 mm and less than or equal to 1800 mm. In this embodiment, the length L2 of the guide rail 106 is equal to or greater than 1500 mm and less than or equal to 1700 mm.

[0041] As shown in the figure, the length L1 of the boom 104 is less than the length L2 of the guide rail 106. Therefore, as Figure 2 As shown, guide rail 106 is centered on boom 104, with its first end 146 extending beyond the first end 136 of boom 104 by a distance D3, and its second end 148 extending beyond the second end 138 of boom 104 by a distance D4. In one embodiment, distances D3 and D4 are equal to each other. In another embodiment, distance D3 is greater than distance D4. In yet another embodiment, distance D3 is less than distance D4. In one embodiment, distances D3 and D4 are each approximately 150 mm. In another embodiment, distances D3 and D4 are each equal to or greater than 100 mm and less than or equal to 200 mm. In yet another embodiment, distances D3 and D4 are each equal to or greater than 125 mm and less than or equal to 175 mm. By allowing guide rail 106 to extend beyond the first end 136 and the second end 138 of boom 104, as described in more detail herein, the total travel distance of personnel lifting system 110 is increased without increasing the length of boom 104 itself.

[0042] As used herein, references to the end of guide rail 106 extending beyond the end of boom arm 104 should be understood to mean that a portion of the upper wall 132 of guide rail 106 at the corresponding end of guide rail 106 does not overlap with a portion of boom arm 104 in the vertical direction.

[0043] In other embodiments, the first end 146 of the guide rail 106 may be mounted flush with the first end 136 of the boom 104, and the second end 148 of the guide rail 106 still extends beyond the second end 138 of the boom 104. In other embodiments, as described in more detail herein, the first end 146 of the guide rail 106 may be mounted flush with the first end 136 of the boom 104, and the second end 148 of the guide rail 106 may be mounted flush with the second end 138 of the boom 104.

[0044] like Figure 3 As shown, guide rail 106 is mounted on boom 104. Specifically, as described herein, the upper wall 132 of guide rail 106 is mounted to the lower wall 108 of boom 104. Guide rail 106 can be mounted to boom 104 in any suitable manner. As shown, a plurality of fasteners 154 extend through the lower wall 108 of boom 104 and into the upper wall 132 of guide rail 106. Although only one pair of fasteners 154 is shown, it should be understood that any number of fasteners 154, such as one fastener 154 and multiple pairs of fasteners 154, can be provided along the length of boom 104 and guide rail 106. Furthermore, as Figure 3As shown, guide rail 106 has a square cross-sectional shape. Figure 3 As shown, the boom 104 includes a hole 156 formed near a first end 136 of the boom 104. The hole 156 receives a second connecting member 126. Although not depicted, it should be understood that the boom 104 includes another hole formed near a second end 138 of the boom 104, which receives a first connecting member 114.

[0045] like Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the protective cover 158 is disposed on the fastener 154 ( Figure 3 Above, fastener 154 secures guide rail 106 to boom 104 and within a groove 160 formed in the upper surface 162 of the lower wall 108 of boom 104. Protective cover 158 includes a protrusion 164, a first flange 166 extending from a first side of the protrusion 164, and a second flange 168 extending from an opposing second side of the protrusion 164. The first flange 166 and the second flange 168 are secured to the lower wall 108 of boom 104 with any suitable material, such as by welding, fasteners, or the like. It should be understood that the protrusion 164 and the lower wall 108 of boom 104 define a cavity, and fastener 154 ( Figure 3 The protective cover 158 extends within the cavity. Therefore, the protective cover 158 prevents the fastener 154 from being contacted by one or more components extending into the interior of the boom arm 104.

[0046] Now for reference Figure 5 The figure depicts a bottom view of the guide rail 106. As shown, the first end plate 150 of the guide rail 106 includes a protrusion 170 extending in one direction to be received inside the guide rail 106. The protrusion 170 includes a lower surface 172 and a groove 174 formed in the protrusion 170 extending from the lower surface 172 to an upper surface 176 of the protrusion 170 opposite to the lower surface 172. One or more holes 178 are formed in the upper surface 176 of the protrusion 170. As shown, a pair of holes 178 are formed in the upper surface 176 of the protrusion 170. However, in an embodiment, only a single hole 178 may be formed. In an embodiment, the hole 178 is threaded to allow a threaded fastener to engage the hole 178. After a fastener is inserted through the hole 178, the fastener contacts the upper wall 132 of the guide rail 106, thereby retaining the first end plate 150 on the guide rail 106. It should be understood that, although not stated herein, the second end plate 152 of the guide rail 106 includes a structure similar to that of the first end plate 150.

[0047] Now for reference Figure 6The guide rail 106 is shown mounted to the lower wall 108 of the boom 104, with the first end plate 150 of the guide rail 106 removed. The guide rail 106 includes a receiver 180, a housing 182 at least partially surrounding the receiver 180, and one or more mounting members 184 mounted to the lower wall 108 of the boom 104. In an embodiment, a rigid stop 186 extends across the receiver 180 to prevent personnel lifting system 110 ( Figure 1 The extension along the guide rail 106 is as described in more detail herein. Although only a single mounting member 184 is shown, it should be understood that multiple mounting members 184 may be arranged along the length of the guide rail 106, and each mounting member 184 is secured to the lower wall 108 of the boom arm 104 by one or more fasteners 154.

[0048] More specifically and refer to Figure 7 The image depicts a cross-sectional view of a guide rail 106, which includes one of a receiver 180, a housing 182, and a mounting member 184. The receiver 180 includes an inner sidewall 188, a first sidewall 190 extending from a first edge 192 of the inner sidewall 188, a second sidewall 194 extending from a second edge 196 of the inner sidewall 188 opposite to the first edge 192, a first track wall 198 extending from a lower end 200 of the first sidewall 190 opposite to the inner sidewall 188, and a second track wall 202 extending from a lower end 204 of the second sidewall 194 opposite to the inner sidewall 188. The inner sidewall 188, the first sidewall 190, the second sidewall 194, the first track wall 198, and the second track wall 202 define an open interior 206 of the receiver 180. In one embodiment, the receiver 180 further includes a first flange 208 extending from the lower end 200 of the first sidewall 190 in a direction opposite to the first guide wall 198, and a second flange 210 extending from the lower end 204 of the second sidewall 194 in a direction opposite to the second guide wall 202. In another embodiment, the receiver 180 further includes a first upper arm 212 extending from a first edge 192 of the inner wall 188 near the inner wall 188 in a direction opposite to the first sidewall 190, and a second upper arm 214 extending from a second edge 196 of the inner wall 188 near the inner wall 188 in a direction opposite to the second sidewall 194. The first upper arm 212 defines a first channel 216, and the second upper arm 214 defines a second channel 218.

[0049] The housing 182 includes an upper wall 220, a first sidewall 222 extending from a first edge 224 of the upper arm 220, a second sidewall 226 extending from a second edge 228 of the upper arm 220 opposite to the first edge 224, a first flange 230 extending from a lower end 232 of the first sidewall 222 opposite to the upper wall 220, and a second flange 234 extending from a lower end 236 of the second sidewall 226 opposite to the upper wall 220. The first flange 230 and the second flange 234 each extend toward each other and terminate therebetween to define a gap. The upper wall 220, the first sidewall 222, the second sidewall 226, the first flange 230, and the second flange 234 define an open interior 238 of the housing 182.

[0050] Mounting member 184 includes a base wall 240. The base wall 240 defines a first finger 242 extending in a first direction and a second finger 244 extending in a second direction opposite to the first direction. In an embodiment, a groove 246 is formed in a lower surface 248 of the base wall 240, and a hole 250 extends from the groove 246 through the base wall 240. Although only a single hole 250 is shown, it should be understood that any number of holes 250, such as two holes 250 or more, may be formed in the mounting member 184.

[0051] like Figure 7 As shown, the mounting member 184 engages the receiver 180 such that a first finger 242 of the base wall 240 is received within a first channel 216 of the first upper arm 212 of the receiver 180, and a second finger 244 of the base wall 240 is received within a second channel 218 of the second upper arm 214 of the receiver 180. Furthermore, the receiver 180 is positioned within the open interior 238 of the housing 182 such that a first flange 208 of the receiver 180 abuts against a first flange 230 of the housing 182, and a second flange 210 of the receiver 180 abuts against a second flange 234 of the housing 182. Therefore, with the mounting member 184 engaged with the receiver 180, the housing 182 reduces the weight of the receiver 180 on the mounting member 184. As described herein and Figure 6 As shown, fastener 154 extends through each hole 250 and through the housing 182 to secure mounting member 184 and housing 182, and thus receiver 180, to boom arm 104. Figure 6 ).

[0052] Now for reference Figure 8The method of translating the lifting unit 118 along the guide rail 106 is described in more detail. Specifically, the personnel lifting system 110 includes a trolley member 252 mounted to the upper wall 254 of the lifting unit 118. The trolley member 252 includes a trolley mount 256 and at least one roller 258 rotatably coupled to the trolley mount 256. At least one roller 258 is at least partially positioned within the guide rail 106, thereby coupling the lifting unit 118 to the guide rail 106. In particular, at least one roller 258 is positioned within the open interior 206 of the receiver 180 such that one or more rollers 258 are supported on the first guide rail wall 198 and / or the second guide rail wall 202. With at least one roller 258 positioned within the guide rail 106, the lifting unit 118 can move along the guide rail 106. Thus, via the sling rod 120 and the lifting accessory 122 ( Figure 1 Personnel connected to the lifting unit 118 can move between different positions along the guide rail 106. In an embodiment, at least one roller 258 may comprise any suitable structure rotatably coupled to a trolley mount 256 that allows the lifting unit 118 to move along the guide rail 106, and may define a cylindrical or spherical shape positioned within and engaging the guide rail 106. Figure 8 In the depicted embodiment, the trolley component 252 includes two rollers 258; however, it should be understood that the trolley component 252 may include any suitable number of rollers 258 coupled to the trolley mounting 256 and positioned within the guide rail 106.

[0053] Although not depicted herein, in embodiments, guide rail 106 includes a guide rail power source. The guide rail power source can provide power to lifting unit 118. In embodiments, the guide rail power source can be coupled to roller 258, which can be formed of a conductive material.

[0054] Now for reference Figure 9 Another embodiment of the elevated support assembly 300 is depicted. It should be understood that the elevated support assembly 300 is similar to that described herein and... Figure 2 The elevated support assembly 100 is shown in the figure. Therefore, similar reference numerals will be used to refer to similar components.

[0055] Similar to Figure 2 The elevated support assembly 100 and the elevated support assembly 300 include an installation device 102. Figure 1The system includes a boom 304 rotatably connected to the mounting device 102 via a first connecting member 114, an auxiliary arm 128 rotatably connected to the boom 304 via a second connecting member 126, a service column 130 extending from the auxiliary arm 128, a guide rail 106 mounted to the lower wall 108 of the boom 304, and a personnel lifting system 110 translatable along the guide rail 106. As described herein, the guide rail 106 has a length L2. However, the length L3 of the boom 304 is greater than... Figure 2 The length L1 of the boom arm 104 of the elevated support assembly 100 is specified. In one embodiment, the length L3 of the boom arm 104 is greater than the length L2 of the guide rail 106. In other embodiments, the length L3 of the boom arm 104 is equal to the length L2 of the guide rail 106.

[0056] like Figure 9 As shown, the length L3 of the boom 304 is greater than the length L2 of the guide rail 106. Therefore, the center-to-center distance D5 between the first end 136 of the boom 304 and the second connecting member 126 is greater than the distance D1. Figure 2 Furthermore, the second end 138 of the boom 304 is spaced at a distance D6 from the center of the first connecting member 114, which is greater than the distance D2. In one embodiment, distances D5 and D6 are each approximately 300 mm. In another embodiment, distances D5 and D6 are each equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm. In yet another embodiment, distances D5 and D6 are each equal to or greater than 250 mm and less than or equal to 350 mm.

[0057] In one embodiment, the length L3 of the boom 304 is approximately 1600 mm. In another embodiment, the length L3 of the boom 304 is equal to or greater than 1300 mm and less than or equal to 1900 mm. In yet another embodiment, the length L3 of the boom 304 is equal to or greater than 1400 mm and less than or equal to 1800 mm. In yet another embodiment, the length L3 of the boom 304 is equal to or greater than 1500 mm and less than or equal to 1700 mm. In yet another embodiment, the difference between the length L2 of the guide rail 106 and the length L3 of the boom 304 is less than or equal to 50 mm. In yet another embodiment, the difference between the length L2 of the guide rail 106 and the length L3 of the boom 304 is less than or equal to 40 mm.

[0058] In one embodiment, the difference between the length L2 of the guide rail 106 and the length L3 of the boom 304 is less than or equal to 30 mm. In another embodiment, the difference between the length L2 of the guide rail 106 and the length L3 of the boom 304 is less than or equal to 20 mm. In yet another embodiment, the difference between the length L2 of the guide rail 106 and the length L3 of the boom 304 is less than or equal to 10 mm. Finally, in yet another embodiment, the difference between the length L2 of the guide rail 106 and the length L3 of the boom 304 is less than or equal to 5 mm.

[0059] Now for reference Figure 10 Another embodiment of the elevated support assembly 400 is depicted. It should be understood that the elevated support assembly 400 is similar to that described herein and... Figure 2 The elevated support assembly 100 is shown in the figure. Therefore, similar reference numerals will be used to refer to similar components.

[0060] Similar to Figure 2 The elevated support assembly 100, the elevated support assembly 400 includes a mounting device 102, a boom 404 rotatably connected to the mounting device 102 via a first connecting member 114, an auxiliary arm 128 rotatably connected to the boom 404 via a second connecting member 126, and a service post 130 extending from the auxiliary arm 128. However, the elevated support assembly 400 includes a second boom 405 rotatably connected to the mounting device 102 via a third connecting member 427, and a service post 130 extending from the auxiliary arm 128. Figure 2 The elevated support assembly 100 has a guide rail 106, similar to the guide rail 406, which allows the personnel lifting system 110 to translate along the second boom 405. A third connecting member 427 is spaced apart from the first connecting member 114. Therefore, it should be understood that the concept of a guide rail mounted to the lower wall of the boom also applies to systems such as... Figure 10 The service column shown is not directly connected to boom 404. However, the above description also applies to the second boom 405 and guide rail 406.

[0061] In summary, it should be understood that this document defines an elevated support assembly including a boom and guide rails mounted to the lower wall of the boom. In one embodiment, the length of the guide rail is greater than the length of the boom to extend the total travel distance of the personnel lifting system along the guide rail without necessarily extending the length of the boom. In other embodiments, the length of the boom is equal to the length of the guide rail. However, by increasing the length of the boom, the distance between the two ends of the boom and the corresponding connecting members that rotatably connect the boom to the mounting device or auxiliary arm increases.

[0062] Other aspects of the embodiments described herein are provided through the subject matter of the following items:

[0063] An elevated support assembly includes: a boom having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end; a guide rail mounted to a lower wall of the boom, the guide rail having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end, the guide rail including a receiver; and a personnel lifting system receiving within the receiver of the guide rail for translation along the guide rail between the first end and the second end.

[0064] According to any of the preceding claims, the length of the guide rail is greater than the length of the boom.

[0065] According to any of the preceding claims, the length of the boom arm is equal to or greater than 1200 mm and less than or equal to 1400 mm.

[0066] According to any of the preceding claims, in the elevated support assembly, the first end of the guide rail extends beyond the first end of the boom arm.

[0067] According to any of the preceding claims, the distance between the first end of the guide rail and the first end of the boom arm is equal to or greater than 100 mm and less than or equal to 200 mm.

[0068] According to any of the preceding claims, in the elevated support assembly, the second end of the guide rail extends beyond the second end of the boom arm.

[0069] According to any of the preceding claims, the distance between the second end of the guide rail and the second end of the boom arm is equal to or greater than 100 mm and less than or equal to 200 mm.

[0070] According to any of the preceding claims, the difference between the length of the guide rail and the length of the boom arm is less than or equal to 50 mm.

[0071] According to any of the preceding claims, the difference between the length of the guide rail and the length of the boom arm is less than or equal to 10 mm.

[0072] According to any of the preceding claims, the overhead support assembly, wherein the guide rail comprises: a housing defining an open interior; a receiver defining an open interior, the receiver being positioned within the open interior of the housing; and one or more mounting members positioned within the open interior of the receiver, the one or more mounting members engaging the receiver and securing it to the boom.

[0073] According to any of the preceding claims, the elevated support assembly includes: the housing having a first flange and a second flange opposite to the first flange; the receiver having a first flange and a second flange opposite to the first flange; the first flange of the receiver abutting against the first flange of the housing; and the second flange of the receiver abutting against the second flange of the housing.

[0074] An elevated support assembly includes: a mounting device; a first connecting member extending from the mounting device; a boom having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end, the boom being rotatably coupled to the first connecting member near the second end of the boom; a guide rail mounted to a lower wall of the boom, the guide rail having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end of the guide rail; a personnel lifting system received within the guide rail for translation along the guide rail between the first and second ends of the guide rail; a second connecting member extending from the boom near the first end of the boom; an auxiliary arm rotatably coupled to the second connecting member; and a service column rotatably coupled to the auxiliary arm near the end of the auxiliary arm opposite to the boom.

[0075] According to any of the preceding claims, the length of the guide rail is greater than the length of the boom.

[0076] According to any of the preceding claims, the length of the boom arm is equal to or greater than 1200 mm and less than or equal to 1400 mm.

[0077] According to any of the preceding claims, in the elevated support assembly, the first end of the guide rail extends beyond the first end of the boom arm.

[0078] According to any of the preceding claims, the distance between the first end of the guide rail and the first end of the boom arm is equal to or greater than 100 mm and less than or equal to 200 mm.

[0079] According to any of the preceding claims, in the elevated support assembly, the second end of the guide rail extends beyond the second end of the boom arm.

[0080] According to any of the preceding claims, the distance between the second end of the guide rail and the second end of the boom arm is equal to or greater than 100 mm and less than or equal to 200 mm.

[0081] According to any of the preceding claims, the difference between the length of the guide rail and the length of the boom arm is less than or equal to 50 mm.

[0082] According to any of the preceding claims, the difference between the length of the guide rail and the length of the boom arm is less than or equal to 10 mm.

[0083] According to any of the preceding claims, the distance between the first end of the boom arm and the center of the second connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm.

[0084] According to any of the preceding claims, the distance between the second end of the boom and the center of the first connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm.

[0085] According to any of the preceding claims, the overhead support assembly, wherein the guide rail comprises: a housing defining an open interior; a receiver defining an open interior, the receiver being positioned within the open interior of the housing; and one or more mounting members positioned within the open interior of the receiver, the one or more mounting members engaging the receiver and securing it to the boom.

[0086] According to any of the preceding claims, the elevated support assembly includes: the housing having a first flange and a second flange opposite to the first flange; the receiver having a first flange and a second flange opposite to the first flange; the first flange of the receiver abutting against the first flange of the housing; and the second flange of the receiver abutting against the second flange of the housing.

[0087] According to any of the preceding claims, the elevated support assembly, wherein the service column includes at least one power outlet, at least one medical gas outlet, and at least one shelf.

[0088] The elevated support assembly according to any of the foregoing items further includes a braking mechanism for inhibiting movement of the service column relative to the auxiliary arm.

[0089] An elevated support assembly includes: a mounting device; a first connecting member extending from the mounting device; a boom having a first end and an opposing second end, the boom being rotatably coupled to the first connecting member near the second end of the boom; a second connecting member extending from the boom near the first end of the boom; an auxiliary arm rotatably coupled to the second connecting member; a service post rotatably coupled to the auxiliary arm near the opposing end of the auxiliary arm; a third connecting member extending from the mounting device and spaced apart from the first connecting member; a second boom having a length extending between the first end and the opposing second end of the boom, the boom being rotatably coupled to the third connecting member near the second end of the boom; a guide rail mounted to a lower wall of the second boom, the guide rail having a length extending between the first end and the opposing second end of the guide rail; and a personnel lifting system receiving within the guide rail for translation along the guide rail between the first end and the second end of the guide rail.

[0090] According to any of the preceding claims, the length of the guide rail is greater than the length of the second boom arm.

[0091] According to any of the preceding items of the elevated support assembly, the length of the second boom arm is equal to or greater than 1200 mm and less than or equal to 1400 mm.

[0092] According to any of the preceding claims, in the elevated support assembly, the first end of the guide rail extends beyond the first end of the second boom arm.

[0093] According to any of the preceding claims, the distance between the first end of the guide rail and the first end of the second boom arm is equal to or greater than 100 mm and less than or equal to 200 mm.

[0094] According to any of the preceding claims, in the elevated support assembly, the second end of the guide rail extends beyond the second end of the second boom arm.

[0095] According to any of the preceding claims, the distance between the second end of the guide rail and the second end of the second boom arm is equal to or greater than 100 mm and less than or equal to 200 mm.

[0096] According to any of the preceding claims, the difference between the length of the guide rail and the length of the second boom arm is less than or equal to 50 mm.

[0097] According to any of the preceding claims, the difference between the length of the guide rail and the length of the second boom arm is less than or equal to 10 mm.

[0098] According to any of the preceding claims, the distance between the second end of the second boom and the center of the third connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm.

[0099] According to any of the preceding claims, the overhead support assembly, wherein the guide rail comprises: a housing defining an open interior; a receiver defining an open interior, the receiver being positioned within the open interior of the housing; and one or more mounting members positioned within the open interior of the receiver, the one or more mounting members engaging the receiver and securing it to the second boom arm.

[0100] According to any of the preceding claims, the elevated support assembly includes: the housing having a first flange and a second flange opposite to the first flange; the receiver having a first flange and a second flange opposite to the first flange; the first flange of the receiver abutting against the first flange of the housing; and the second flange of the receiver abutting against the second flange of the housing.

[0101] According to any of the preceding claims, the elevated support assembly, wherein the service column includes at least one power outlet, at least one medical gas outlet, and at least one shelf.

[0102] The elevated support assembly according to any of the foregoing items further includes a braking mechanism for inhibiting movement of the service column relative to the auxiliary arm.

[0103] An elevated support assembly includes: a boom having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end, the length of the boom being equal to or greater than 1500 mm and less than or equal to 1700 mm; a guide rail mounted to a lower wall of the boom, the guide rail having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end, the guide rail including a receiver, the length of the guide rail being equal to or greater than 1500 mm and less than or equal to 1700 mm; and a personnel lifting system received within the receiver of the guide rail for translation along the guide rail between the first and second ends.

[0104] An elevated support assembly includes: a mounting device; a first connecting member extending from the mounting device; a boom having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end, the boom being rotatably coupled to the first connecting member near the second end of the boom; a guide rail mounted to a lower wall of the boom, the guide rail having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end of the guide rail; a personnel lifting system received within the guide rail for translation along the guide rail between the first and second ends of the guide rail; a second connecting member extending from the boom near the first end of the boom; an auxiliary arm rotatably coupled to the second connecting member; and a service column rotatably coupled to the auxiliary arm near the end of the auxiliary arm opposite to the boom, wherein the distance between the first end of the boom and the center of the second connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm, and wherein the distance between the second end of the boom and the center of the first connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm.

[0105] An elevated support assembly includes: a mounting device; a first connecting member extending from the mounting device; a boom having a first end and an opposing second end, the boom being rotatably coupled to the first connecting member near the second end of the boom; a second connecting member extending from the boom near the first end of the boom; an auxiliary arm rotatably coupled to the second connecting member; a service post rotatably coupled to the auxiliary arm near the opposite end of the auxiliary arm; a third connecting member extending from the mounting device and spaced apart from the first connecting member; and the second boom having a length extending between the first end and the opposing second end of the boom. The second boom is rotatably connected to the third connecting member near the second end of the boom; a guide rail is mounted to the lower wall of the second boom, the guide rail having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end; and a personnel lifting system is received within the guide rail to translate along the guide rail between the first and second ends, wherein the distance between the first end of the second boom and the center of the second connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm, and wherein the distance between the second end of the second boom and the center of the first connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm.

[0106] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of the claimed subject matter. Therefore, this specification is intended to cover modifications and variations of the various embodiments described herein, provided that such modifications and variations are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An elevated support assembly, comprising: A boom having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end, the length of the boom being equal to or greater than 1500 mm and less than or equal to 1700 mm; A guide rail is mounted to the lower wall of the boom, the guide rail having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end, the guide rail including a receiver, and the length of the guide rail being equal to or greater than 1500 mm and less than or equal to 1700 mm. as well as A personnel lifting system, receiving within the receiver on the guide rail to translate along the guide rail between the first end and the second end of the guide rail.

2. The elevated support assembly according to claim 1, wherein the length of the guide rail is greater than the length of the boom arm.

3. The elevated support assembly of claim 2, wherein the first end of the guide rail extends beyond the first end of the boom arm.

4. The elevated support assembly according to claim 3, wherein the distance between the first end of the guide rail and the first end of the boom arm is equal to or greater than 100 mm and less than or equal to 200 mm.

5. The elevated support assembly of claim 3, wherein the second end of the guide rail extends beyond the second end of the boom arm.

6. The elevated support assembly according to claim 5, wherein the distance between the second end of the guide rail and the second end of the boom arm is equal to or greater than 100 mm and less than or equal to 200 mm.

7. The elevated support assembly according to claim 1, wherein the difference between the length of the guide rail and the length of the boom arm is less than or equal to 50 mm.

8. The elevated support assembly according to claim 7, wherein the difference between the length of the guide rail and the length of the boom arm is less than or equal to 10 mm.

9. The elevated support assembly according to claim 1, wherein the guide rail comprises: The outer shell restricts the open interior; A receiver, defining an open interior, the receiver being positioned within the open interior of the housing; as well as One or more mounting members are positioned within the open interior of the receiver, the one or more mounting members engaging the receiver and securing it to the boom arm.

10. The elevated support assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The housing includes a first flange and a second flange opposite to the first flange; The receiver includes a first flange and a second flange opposite to the first flange; The first flange of the receiver rests against the first flange of the housing; and The second flange of the receiver rests against the second flange of the housing.

11. An elevated support assembly, comprising: Installation device; A first connecting member extends from the mounting device; A boom having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end, the boom being rotatably coupled to the first connecting member near the second end of the boom; A guide rail is mounted to the lower wall of the boom, the guide rail having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end; A personnel lifting system, receiving within the guide rail to translate along the guide rail between the first end and the second end of the guide rail; A second connecting member extends from the boom and approaches the first end of the boom; An auxiliary arm is rotatably connected to the second connecting member; as well as The service column is rotatably connected to the end of the auxiliary arm near the end opposite to the boom arm. The distance between the first end of the boom and the center of the second connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm. The distance between the second end of the boom and the center of the first connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm.

12. The elevated support assembly according to claim 11, wherein the length of the guide rail is greater than the length of the boom arm.

13. The elevated support assembly according to claim 11, wherein the difference between the length of the guide rail and the length of the boom arm is less than or equal to 50 mm.

14. The elevated support assembly according to claim 13, wherein the difference between the length of the guide rail and the length of the boom arm is less than or equal to 10 mm.

15. The elevated support assembly of claim 11, wherein the guide rail comprises: The outer shell restricts the open interior; A receiver, defining an open interior, the receiver being positioned within the open interior of the housing; as well as One or more mounting members are positioned within the open interior of the receiver, the one or more mounting members engaging the receiver and securing it to the boom arm.

16. The elevated support assembly according to claim 15, wherein: The housing includes a first flange and a second flange opposite to the first flange; The receiver includes a first flange and a second flange opposite to the first flange; The first flange of the receiver rests against the first flange of the housing; and The second flange of the receiver rests against the second flange of the housing.

17. An elevated support assembly, comprising: Installation device; A first connecting member extends from the mounting device; A boom having a first end and an opposite second end, the boom being rotatably connected to the first connecting member near the second end of the boom; A second connecting member extends from the boom and approaches the first end of the boom; An auxiliary arm is rotatably connected to the second connecting member; A service column is rotatably connected to the end of the auxiliary arm near the end of the auxiliary arm opposite to the boom arm; A third connecting member extends from the mounting device and is spaced apart from the first connecting member; The second boom has a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end of the boom, the boom being rotatably connected to the third connecting member near the second end of the boom; A guide rail is mounted to the lower wall of the second boom, the guide rail having a length extending between a first end and an opposite second end; as well as A personnel lifting system, receiving within the guide rail for translation along the guide rail between the first and second ends of the guide rail. The distance between the first end of the second boom and the center of the second connecting member is equal to or greater than 200mm and less than or equal to 400mm. The distance between the second end of the second boom and the center of the first connecting member is equal to or greater than 200 mm and less than or equal to 400 mm.

18. The elevated support assembly according to claim 17, wherein the length of the second boom arm is equal to or greater than 1500 mm and less than or equal to 1700 mm.

19. The elevated support assembly according to claim 17, wherein the difference between the length of the guide rail and the length of the second boom arm is less than or equal to 50 mm.

20. The elevated support assembly of claim 17, wherein the guide rail comprises: An outer casing defining an open interior; the outer casing includes a first flange and a second flange opposite to the first flange; A receiver, defining an open interior, the receiver being positioned within the open interior of the housing, the receiver including a first flange and a second flange opposite to the first flange, the first flange of the receiver abutting against the first flange of the housing, and the second flange of the receiver abutting against the second flange of the housing; as well as One or more mounting members are positioned within the open interior of the receiver, the one or more mounting members engaging the receiver and securing it to the second boom arm.

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