STRETCHER LOADING ASSISTANCE DEVICE

Abstract

Stretcher Loading Aid Device. The invention relates to a device for assisting the loading (1) of a stretcher (2) onto a vehicle, said stretcher (2) extending longitudinally between a first and a second end, said device (1) comprising at least: a substantially elongated and tiltable guide means between a substantially horizontal position and an inclined position; a first support element designed to receive said stretcher (2) towards said first end; said first support element being mounted for translation relative to said guide means so that, in an inclined position, said first support element can move from a high position to a low position. Devices for assisting the loading of stretchers onto vehicles. Figure for the abstract: Figure 1.

Description

Title of the invention: STRETCHER LOADING ASSISTANCE DEVICE

[0001] The present invention relates to the general technical field of loading assistance devices, and more particularly to that of stretcher loading assistance devices.

[0002] The present invention relates more specifically to a device for assisting in loading a stretcher onto a vehicle, said stretcher extending longitudinally between a first and a second end.

[0003] Stretchers (sometimes called litters) are commonly used for the evacuation of injured persons, generally in a seated or lying position. To carry out this evacuation, rescuers very often have to place a stretcher carrying an injured person inside a vehicle. It is particularly important that the loading of the loaded stretcher takes place both safely for the injured person, i.e., in relative comfort, without any loading errors that could lead to the stretcher (and therefore the injured person) tipping over, and as quickly as possible, due, for example, to the medical emergency in which the injured person finds themselves. The needs for safety and speed of loading are most often conflicting.

[0004] This need to quickly embark the loaded stretcher can be reinforced in the context, for example, of a military operation, when evacuating a wounded person from a combat zone, in which the protection of people (rescuers, soldiers, vehicle personnel, etc.) and property (vehicle, medical equipment, etc.) is not guaranteed.

[0005] Currently, during a vehicle evacuation of a person on a stretcher, rescuers first carry the loaded stretcher to the vehicle, then manually lift it inside, generally onto the vehicle's interior floor. This lifting step proves to be both arduous for the rescuers and uncomfortable and risky for the person on the stretcher. The difficulty for the rescuers is particularly exacerbated by two factors: firstly, the sometimes considerable weight of the person and the stretcher (especially when transporting a wounded soldier with their equipment), and secondly, the height of the vehicle's interior floor relative to the ground. These two factors are interconnected: greater difficulty for the rescuers leads to a greater risk of discomfort and danger (falling off the stretcher, further injury, etc.) for the person on board.

[0006] Stretcher transport trolleys are also known, designed to roll to an ambulance into which the stretcher is transferred along with the trolley. The trolley has legs with wheels at the ends. The trolley is generally foldable at its legs to allow it to enter the ambulance while carrying the stretcher. However, such trolleys cannot be used in rough or difficult terrain, for example, in the mountains or at sea. Furthermore, these known trolleys are only suitable for a specific category of land ambulance vehicles with a low interior floor height, and loading must take place on substantially flat ground on which the trolley can roll easily (for example, on a street).

[0007] The objects assigned to the present invention are therefore aimed at remedying the various disadvantages listed above and proposing a new device for assisting in loading a stretcher onto a vehicle, which, while being particularly robust, reliable and practical, requires only a reduced effort from the rescuers and / or operators implementing it.

[0008] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new device for assisting the loading of a stretcher onto a vehicle which allows the rapid and safe loading of a stretcher loaded with a person, an animal or equipment into a vehicle, and in particular an aircraft.

[0009] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new device for assisting in loading a stretcher onto a vehicle which allows a person or animal to be loaded onto a stretcher in a particularly comfortable manner.

[0010] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new device for assisting in loading a stretcher onto a vehicle which requires only minimal maintenance.

[0011] Another object of the invention aims to propose a new device to assist in loading a stretcher onto a vehicle whose weight and size are reduced.

[0012] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new device to assist in loading a stretcher onto a vehicle, the manufacture of which is simple and can be carried out at a controlled cost.

[0013] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new device for assisting in loading a stretcher onto a vehicle, the design of which allows it to be easily adapted to a wide variety of vehicles.

[0014] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new device for assisting in loading a stretcher onto a vehicle which is capable of adapting to any type of stretcher, regardless of its design or weight.

[0015] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new device for assisting in loading a stretcher onto a vehicle, the design of which ensures operators / rescuers easy access to the person or equipment loaded onto said stretcher.

[0016] Another object of the invention aims to propose a new device for assisting in loading a stretcher onto a vehicle whose structure is simple and comprises only a limited number of separate parts.

[0017] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new device for assisting in loading a stretcher onto a vehicle whose structure is durable, reliable and particularly resistant.

[0018] Another object of the invention aims to propose a new loading system allowing a person, an animal or equipment to be loaded into a vehicle in a practical, quick and safe manner.

[0019] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new vehicle capable of carrying a person, an animal or equipment within it in a practical, rapid and optimal safety manner.

[0020] The objects assigned to the present invention are reached by means of a device for assisting in loading a stretcher onto a vehicle, said stretcher extending longitudinally between a first and a second end, said device comprising at least: - a substantially elongated and tiltable guiding means between a substantially horizontal position and an inclined position, - a first support element designed to receive said stretcher towards said first end, said first support element being mounted to translate relative to said guiding means so that in inclined position, said first support element can move from a high position to a low position.

[0021] The objects assigned to the present invention are also reached using a loading system comprising at least one stretcher and a device for assisting the loading of said stretcher according to the invention as described above.

[0022] The objects assigned to the present invention are also reached using a vehicle equipped with a stretcher loading aid device according to the invention as described above.

[0023] Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent in more detail from the following description and with the aid of the accompanying figures provided for explanatory purposes only and not for limitation, in which:

[0024] [Fig-1] schematically illustrates, in perspective view, a device loading aid according to the invention in a particular embodiment, in a substantially horizontal and retracted position.

[0025] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates, from a perspective view, the device aid to loading of the [Fig.l], the difference being that it is in the deployed position.

[0026] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates, from a perspective view, the device loading aid of the [Fig.2], the difference being that it is in an inclined position, with a first supporting element of the device in a high position.

[0027] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates, in perspective view, the device loading aid of [Fig.3], with the difference that the first support element is in the lower position.

[0028] [Fig.5] schematically illustrates, from a perspective view, the device loading aid of the [Fig.4], as well as a stretcher supported by the first support element.

[0029] [Fig.6] illustrates schematically, according to a perspective view, the device loading aid and the stretcher of the [Fig.5], the stretcher being further supported by a second support element of the device.

[0030] The invention relates, according to a first aspect illustrated in the figures, to a loading aid device 1 for a stretcher 2 on board a vehicle. Thus, the loading aid device 1 is advantageously designed to assist in loading a stretcher 2 into said vehicle. Said stretcher 2 is preferably "loaded," that is to say, it is designed to support and enable the transport of a person, for example, an injured person, an animal, and / or objects, for example, medical or military equipment. Thus, advantageously, the term "stretch" encompasses the stretcher 2 as such, but also its possible load, whether human, animal, and / or material. Of course, the loading aid device 1 is also suitable for loading the stretcher 2 alone, that is to say, unloaded. The vehicle is, for example, a car, a utility vehicle (truck, fire engine, etc.), an ambulance, an aircraft, a ship, etc.In one particular embodiment, the vehicle is an aircraft, for example, an air ambulance. Preferably, this vehicle is a helicopter, for example, an air ambulance helicopter. In another particular embodiment, the vehicle is a military aircraft, for example, a military helicopter or a military airplane (for example, one used as an ambulance). This vehicle may have an interior floor which, in one particular embodiment, is at a height, relative to the ground when the vehicle is placed on it, greater than 60 cm, preferably greater than 80 cm, more preferably greater than 100 cm, or even greater than 120 cm. This height, which can therefore be relatively significant, necessitates lifting the stretcher 2 well above the ground to place it in the vehicle, for example, onto its interior floor.The thickness of stretcher 2 alone can further complicate this operation, as it increases the lifting height. The height of... The lifting height (the sum of the floor height and the thickness of stretcher 2, for example) and the sometimes significant weight of stretcher 2 (especially when loaded) make loading stretcher 2 onto the vehicle particularly difficult when done purely manually by rescuers and / or operators. The loading aid device 1 of the invention makes this loading easier for rescuers and / or operators, and also safer for the person, animal, or equipment transported on stretcher 2. As will be seen later, the loading aid device 1 is preferably designed to be secured to the vehicle, for example, via a support assembly 11 for device 1.

[0031] According to the invention, said stretcher 2 extends longitudinally between a first and a second end 3, 4. The stretcher 2 is preferably designed to be grasped at the first end 3 by one or more operators / rescuers, and at the second end 4 by one or more other operators / rescuers. By convention, the first end 3 is preferably the one that enters the vehicle first when the stretcher is loaded therein, while the second end 4 enters afterward. An example of a stretcher 2 according to the invention is illustrated in Figures 5 and 6.

[0032] The stretcher 2 has, according to a particular embodiment, a generally rectangular shape, but it can have, according to other alternatives, a different general shape, for example a generally ovoid, oval, triangular, etc. shape.

[0033] According to the invention, said device 1 comprises at least one substantially elongated and tiltable guiding means 5 between a substantially horizontal position and an inclined position. In other words, the device 1 is preferably designed so that said guiding means 5 can be placed substantially horizontally (in a substantially horizontal position) and then inclined, that is to say, at an angle (neither vertically nor horizontally), into an inclined position, and conversely, move from the oblique to the horizontal. An example of a guiding means 5 in a substantially horizontal position is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, and an example of a guiding means 5 in an inclined position is illustrated in Figures 3 to 6.

[0034] Said guiding means 5 advantageously extends along a longitudinal extension direction L. This direction is preferably oriented substantially horizontally when said guiding means 5 is in a substantially horizontal position, and oriented substantially obliquely when said guiding means 5 is in an inclined position. In the inclined position, the longitudinal extension direction L forms, for example, an angle between 5 and 70° with the horizontal plane, preferably between 10 and 60°, more preferably between 15 and 50°. The guiding means 5 preferably extends longitudinally, that is to say, advantageously along said longitudinal extension direction _L- between a primary end 6 and a secondary end 7. In inclined position, the primary end 6 is preferably located at a higher altitude than the secondary end 7.

[0035] Advantageously, the inclination of said guide means 5 is achieved about a first axis of rotation A substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal extension direction L. According to a particular embodiment, the loading aid device 1 is designed so that the guide means 5 can move from said substantially horizontal position to said inclined position and vice versa by rotation about a substantially horizontal axis of rotation. Thus, said first axis of rotation A is preferably substantially horizontal, although other alternatives exist (it could possibly be oblique).

[0036] Said guiding means 5 preferably comprises a rail (as illustrated in the figures), a profile, and / or a guide post, but it may comprise any other substantially elongated shape which is suitable.

[0037] According to the invention, the loading aid device further comprises at least one first support element 8 designed to receive said stretcher 2 towards said first end 3. Said first support element 8 is therefore advantageously designed to support and possibly be attached to at least one part of said stretcher 2, more precisely a part of said stretcher 2 located in the vicinity of said first end 3 (and preferably opposite said second end 4).

[0038] Said first support element 8 is advantageously designed to enter into a mechanical connection with said stretcher 2 so as to eliminate at least one degree of freedom in the latter. Said first support element 8 may optionally be designed to enter into a mechanical connection with said stretcher 2 so as to eliminate at least another degree of freedom in the latter, said first support element 8 then being designed to enter into a mechanical connection with said stretcher 2 so as to eliminate at least two degrees of freedom in the latter. Said first support element 8 is, according to a particular embodiment, designed to be attached to said stretcher 2, for example to the handles thereof (when said stretcher 2 has such handles).

[0039] According to the invention, said first support element 8 is mounted for translation relative to said guide means 5 so that, in an inclined position, said first support element 8 can move from a high position to a low position. Thus, said device 1 is preferably designed so that said first support element 8 can move from the high position to the low position, and vice versa, via a translational movement, which translational movement is advantageously carried out along said guide means 5. The first support element 8 comprises, for example, a carriage designed to slide along said guide means 5 in a translational movement, preferably in a direction parallel to or coinciding with with the longitudinal extension direction L of the guiding means 5, said trolley being designed to carry said stretcher 2 towards said first end 3. An example of the first support element 8 in the raised position is shown in Figures 3 and 6, and an example of the first support element 8 in the lowered position is shown in Figures 4 and 5. The raised position preferably corresponds to a first altitude at which the first support element 8 is located, and the lowered position advantageously corresponds to a second altitude at which the first support element 8 is located, said second altitude being lower than said first altitude. The first support element 8 is preferably designed to move from the raised position to the lower position, and vice versa, by performing a translational movement in a direction parallel to or coinciding with said longitudinal extension direction L.Preferably, when the first support element 8 moves from the upper position to the lower position, it moves away from said primary end 6 and towards said secondary end 7, and when the first support element 8 moves from the lower position to the upper position, it moves away from said secondary end 7 and towards said primary end 6. The first support element 8 is thus advantageously designed so that, while supporting the stretcher 2 (or at least a part thereof), it moves from the lower position to the upper position in a translational movement along a direction parallel to or coinciding with the longitudinal extension direction L of the guiding means 5.Advantageously, this allows the stretcher 2, or a portion thereof, to be moved from a lower to a higher altitude by being supported by the first support element 8, instead of being manually supported by one or more rescuers / operators, thus considerably reducing the physical strain of loading the stretcher for them. The rescuers / operators then simply have to push (upwards) said stretcher 2 and / or said first support element 8, from the lower altitude and / or the lower position to the higher altitude and / or the upper position, said first support element 8 sliding, for example, from the lower position to the upper position along said guidance means 5 while supporting said stretcher 2.During the operation of loading stretcher 2 onto the vehicle, at least part of the weight of stretcher 2 (and therefore of its load) is advantageously supported by the first support element 8 and thus by the guiding means 5, instead of being supported (solely) by the operators / rescuers. Once the first support element 8 has returned to its raised position supporting stretcher 2 ([Fig. 6]), it is sufficient, for example, to return the guiding means 5, still loaded with stretcher 2, from its inclined position to its substantially horizontal position ([Fig. 2], to which stretcher 2 from [Fig. 6] would be added), some or all of the weight of stretcher 2. being advantageously already supported by the loading assistance device 1 and therefore indirectly by the vehicle.

[0040] Preferably, the loading aid device 1 comprises at least one first return means 9 designed to exert a return force on the first support element 8 towards the upper position when said first support element 8 is positioned in the lower position and / or is located between the upper and lower positions. Said first return means 9 comprises, for example, at least one gas spring, a spring, and / or an elastic return element. A first return means 9 in the form of one or more gas springs is illustrated in [Fig. 1] (two gas springs) and [Fig. 2] (one gas spring), the size and positioning of this or these gas springs (and more generally of the first return means 9) being able to vary. Said first return means 9 advantageously facilitates the movement of the first support element 8 from the lower position to the upper position, in particular when it receives said stretcher 2.The first lowering means 9 therefore preferentially provides assistance to facilitate the movement of the stretcher 2, or a portion thereof, received by the first support element 8, from a lower to a higher altitude. The first lowering element 9 should advantageously not be too powerful, as it is preferably designed so that the descent (by translation) of the first support element 8 from the upper to the lower position can be carried out manually, that is, by operators / rescuers by simply pulling or pushing the first support element 8 downwards (and more precisely towards the secondary end 7) when the guiding means 5 is in an inclined position. Thus, the first lowering means 9 is advantageously designed to exert the lowering force of the first support element 8 towards the primary end 6.The said first means of recall 9, which remains optional, is therefore preferably designed to drive said first support element 8 away from said secondary end 7.

[0041] The loading aid device 1 comprises, according to a particular embodiment, a movement means designed to move the first support element 8 to the upper position when the latter is positioned in the lower position and / or is located between the upper and lower positions. Said movement means is therefore preferably designed to move the first support element 8 towards said primary end 6. Said movement means comprises, for example, a crank, and optionally a set of gears and / or a belt connected to said crank. Said movement means advantageously allows the first support element 8 to be moved along the guide means 5. Said movement means is preferably designed to be operated manually, but can alternatively be operated electrically, pneumatically, and / or hydraulically. According to a particular embodiment, the movement means comprises the first return means 9 described above and / or the second means of return described below, either alone or in combination with another means such as said crank (and possibly said set of gears and / or said belt).

[0042] According to a particular alternative, not illustrated, the loading aid device 1 comprises at least one second return means designed to exert a return force on the first support element 8 towards the lowered position when said first support element 8 is positioned in the raised position and / or is located between the lower and raised positions. Said second return means comprises, for example, at least one gas spring, a spring, and / or an elastic return element. Said second return means thus exerts a return force opposite to the return force exerted by said first return means 9. Said first return means 9 advantageously facilitates the movement of the first support element 8 from the raised position to the lowered position, in particular before it receives said stretcher 2, so as to reduce the effort required of rescuers / operators when they attempt to lower the first support element 8 from its raised position to its lowered position.The second restoring means therefore preferentially provides assistance to facilitate the movement of the first support element 8 from the upper position to the lower position. Thus, the second restoring means is advantageously designed to exert its restoring force from the first support element 8 towards the secondary end 7. The second restoring means is therefore preferably designed to move the first support element 8 away from the primary end 6. Preferably, the restoring force exerted by the first restoring means 9 is greater than the restoring force exerted by the second restoring means.Such a configuration allows prioritizing the loading of stretcher 2, in particular when the first support element 8 moves from the lower position to the upper position supporting said stretcher 2, over the descent of the first support element 8 from the upper position to the lower position carried out for example by one or more rescuers / operators.

[0043] Advantageously, the loading aid device 1 further comprises a second support element 10 designed to receive said stretcher 2 towards said second end 4. Said second support element 10 is therefore advantageously designed to support and optionally be attached to at least a portion of said stretcher 2, more precisely a portion of said stretcher 2 located in the vicinity of said second end 4 (and preferably opposite said first end 3). Preferably, said second support element 10 is integral with said guiding means 5. Alternatively, said second support element 10 forms part of a different assembly than the guiding means 5. Said second support element 10 has, for example, a substantially similar and / or symmetrical shape to that of the first support element 8, such as illustrated in the figures. Such a configuration makes the manufacture of device 1 less expensive and its use simpler.

[0044] According to a particular embodiment, said second support element 10 is, as illustrated in the figures, completely fixed to said guiding means 5, and therefore has no degree of freedom with respect to the latter. Such a configuration makes it possible to give excellent robustness to the device 1, the second support element 10 being advantageously designed to support at least part, or even most, of the weight of the stretcher 1 when the guiding means 5 is in an inclined position, as illustrated in [Fig. 6].

[0045] Preferably, said second support element 10 is fixed by means of a guide 5 to or at said secondary end 7, as illustrated in the figures. Alternatively or in combination with the above, said second support element 10 forms all or part of said secondary end 7.

[0046] Advantageously, when said guiding means 5 is in an inclined position, said second support element 10 is at an altitude that is lower than that of said first support element 8. When said guiding means 5 is in a substantially horizontal position, said second support element 10 is advantageously (but not necessarily) at an altitude that is substantially similar to that of said first support element 8. When said first support element 8 is in a low position, it is preferably closer to the second support element 10 than when it is in a high position.

[0047] Said second support element 10 is advantageously designed to enter into a mechanical connection with said stretcher 2 so as to eliminate at least one degree of freedom in the latter. Said second support element 10 may optionally be designed to enter into a mechanical connection with said stretcher 2 so as to eliminate at least another degree of freedom in the latter, said second support element 10 then being designed to enter into a mechanical connection with said stretcher 2 so as to eliminate at least two degrees of freedom in the latter. Said second support element 10 is, according to a particular embodiment, designed to be attached to said stretcher 2, for example to the handles thereof (when said stretcher 2 has such handles).

[0048] Thus, the loading aid device 1 is preferably designed so that the first support element 8, when in its lowered position ([Fig. 4]), receives said stretcher 2 towards said first end 3 ([Fig. 5]), then the first support element 8 moves to its raised position with at least part of the stretcher 2 carried by it, the second support element 10 then receiving said stretcher 2 towards said second end 4, said stretcher 2 then preferably being entirely supported by said first and second support elements 8, 10 ([Fig. 6]). In other words, said stretcher 2 is advantageously carried by said guiding means 5 via said first and second support elements 8, 10, said first support element 8 being mounted for translation relative to said guiding means 5, while said second support element 10 is preferably mounted fixed, completely integral with said guiding means 5.

[0049] Advantageously, the loading aid device 1 further comprises, as illustrated in the figures, at least one support assembly 11 intended to be secured to the vehicle, for example, to the (interior) floor of the vehicle. Alternatively, the support assembly 11 may be attached to an interior side wall of the vehicle, or to a part thereof. The support assembly 11 comprises, for example, a plate, the plate being, in a particular embodiment, intended to be secured to the vehicle floor, more precisely against the vehicle, the plate thus being intended to be positioned substantially horizontally. The support assembly 11 may be secured to the vehicle, for example to the interior floor thereof, by screwing, welding, clipping, rail fastening (for example, those commonly found on the floor of certain aircraft such as helicopters), etc.The said support assembly 11 is also advantageously connected to the guiding means 5.

[0050] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, said guiding means 5 is mounted for translation relative to said support assembly 11 such that, in a substantially horizontal position, said guiding means 5 can move from a retracted position ([Fig. 1]) to a deployed position ([Fig. 2]) in which it is further from a proximal point 12 of said support assembly 11 than in said retracted position. Said proximal point 12 is advantageously intended to be positioned inside said vehicle. In said retracted position, the guiding means 5 is preferably positioned wholly or partly inside the vehicle, and in said deployed position, said guiding means 5 can be positioned wholly or partly outside the vehicle, the guiding means 5 optionally being located further outside the vehicle in the deployed position than in the retracted position.The proximal point 12 may, for example, be an area of ​​the support assembly 11, for example, a part of said plate and / or a portion of the support assembly above said plate. Said guide means 5 includes, for example, a lower rail, preferably positioned opposite the support assembly 11 when the guide means 5 is in the retracted position, said lower rail enabling a translational movement to pass from one position to the other between the retracted position and the deployed position.

[0051] According to a particular embodiment, the transition from one position to the other between said retracted and deployed positions is achieved by a translational movement along a direction parallel to or coinciding with said longitudinal extension direction. Said proximal point 12 is located, for example, on or to the right of of said direction (of translation) parallel to or coincident with said direction of longitudinal extension L.

[0052] Advantageously, the loading aid device 1 further comprises a locking means (not shown) designed to lock said guide means 5 in position when it is in said retracted position and / or in said deployed position. Said locking means is therefore preferably designed to block at least one degree of freedom of said guide means 5 relative to the support assembly 11. More precisely, said locking means is advantageously designed to prevent translation, for example in the horizontal plane and / or along the longitudinal extension direction L, of said guide means 5 relative to the support assembly 11. Obviously, the locking means is designed to be unlocked at will, for example manually by rescuers / operators.

[0053] According to a particular embodiment which may constitute an invention as such, carried out in isolation or in combination with the foregoing, the loading aid device 1 is designed so that, in a substantially horizontal position, it allows the translational movement, preferably substantially horizontal (and along the longitudinal extension direction L), of said stretcher 2 from a first positioning (substantially horizontal) within the vehicle to at least a second positioning (substantially horizontal) within the vehicle, and conversely, the second positioning advantageously allowing at least a part of the stretcher 2 to be placed in a rear part of said vehicle, and more precisely an internal space at the rear of said vehicle with respect to the forward movement of the latter.The translational movement of stretcher 2 is advantageously carried out along the direction in which the length of stretcher 2 extends. Naturally, the first positioning is preferably distinct from and separate from the second positioning, with stretcher 2 not being located in the same place within the vehicle's interior in each of the first and second positions. For example, the second positioning corresponds to placing an individual on stretcher 2 so that their legs are at least partially located in the rear section of the vehicle, which is, for example, the tail of an aircraft, and in particular the tail of a helicopter.This configuration maximizes the use of the limited interior space of the helicopter (or other vehicle) and also allows rescuers / operators easier access to the head and / or torso of the individual on stretcher 2, as injuries are very often located in these areas. For example, the first positioning of stretcher 2 corresponds to the retracted position of the guidance device 5, with it fully inside the vehicle, while the second positioning of stretcher 2 corresponds to the deployed position of the guidance device. 5 with the latter entirely within the vehicle (contrary to what we see in figures 1 and 2, but the translational movement is essentially the same). In the first positioning, stretcher 2 occupies in particular a more "central" position within the internal space of the vehicle than in the second positioning, and therefore limits the movements of rescuers / operators more than when it is in the second positioning, in which at least part of stretcher 2 occupies the rear of the vehicle, which is frequently considered a "lost" space because it is not easily accessible by the crew or rescuers / operators, particularly in the case of the tail of an aircraft.The loading aid 1 is further advantageously designed to be able to lock said stretcher 2 in said first and / or second positioning, i.e. to prevent said stretcher 2 from moving translationally from the first positioning to the second positioning and / or from the second positioning to the first positioning, for example by means of said locking means. This makes it possible to secure the stretcher 2 in the horizontal plane during its transport within the vehicle.

[0054] According to a particular embodiment, alone or in combination with the foregoing, said guide means 5 is mounted for rotation relative to said support assembly 10 about at least one primary axis of rotation V, which is advantageously substantially vertical. Preferably, said guide means 5 can be placed, by rotation about (at least) said primary axis of rotation V, in a first transport position (not illustrated), in which the longitudinal extension direction L is preferably substantially parallel to or coincides with the forward direction of said vehicle. The rotation of said guide means 5 relative to said support assembly 10 is advantageously achievable (and preferably only) when the guide means 5 is in a substantially horizontal position, and preferably in a retracted position.The primary axis of rotation V and the first axis of rotation A are preferably intersecting, and more preferably substantially orthogonal to each other.

[0055] According to a particular embodiment, said guiding means 5 is mounted to rotate relative to said support assembly 10 along at least one secondary axis of rotation S which is advantageously substantially vertical, said secondary axis of rotation S being distinct from and distant from said primary axis of rotation V. Said secondary axis of rotation S passes for example through the proximal point 12.

[0056] The loading aid device 1 advantageously comprises, as illustrated in the figures, an interconnection means between said guiding means 5 and said support assembly 11. Said interconnection means comprises, for example, at least one, several or all of the following elements: - a spacer 13 extending, preferably longitudinally, between a third end and a fourth end, - a first hinge 14, preferably at the level of said fourth end, ensuring a pivot connection between said spacer 13 and said guide means 5 along the first axis of rotation A, - a second hinge 15, preferably at the level of said fourth end, ensuring a pivot connection between said spacer 13 and said guide means 5 along the primary axis of rotation V, said first and second hinges 14, 15 being able to be at least partially superimposed and / or coincide as illustrated in the figures, - a third hinge 16, preferably at the level of said third end, ensuring a pivot connection between said spacer 13 and said support assembly 11 along the secondary axis of rotation S, said third hinge 16 therefore being preferably distinct from and distant from said first hinge 14 and / or said second hinge 15,said proximal point 12 being formed, for example, by said third hinge 16 or a part thereof.

[0057] Such a configuration, where the guiding means 5 can rotate about two vertical axes (primary axis V and secondary axis S) relative to the support assembly 11, advantageously optimizes the positioning of the stretcher 2 inside the vehicle, when said stretcher 2 is supported by the loading aid device 1, preferably in a substantially horizontal and retracted position. This optimizes the internal space of the vehicle and / or places the stretcher 2 in a convenient position for operators / rescuers, for example, if they need to provide care to an injured person on the stretcher 2.

[0058] According to a particular embodiment, illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, said stretcher 2 comprises a receiving platform 17 and, towards said first end 3, two primary arms 18 projecting out of said receiving platform 17. This configuration is quite common among stretchers 2, although other configurations are possible. Said first support element 8 advantageously comprises at least two receiving means 19, each designed to receive one of said two primary arms 11. According to a particular embodiment, alone or in combination with the foregoing, illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, said stretcher 2 comprises, towards said first end 3, two secondary arms 20 projecting out of said receiving platform 17. Said second support element 10 then advantageously comprises at least two receiving means 21, each designed to receive one of said two secondary arms 20.Each arm 18, 20 advantageously forms a respective handle of said stretcher 2. Each receiving means 19, 21 comprises, for example, a hollow shape complementary to the arm 18, 20 that it is intended to receive. Each primary arm 18 is possibly an extension of and integral with one of said arms. corresponding secondary arm 20. Advantageously, each arm 18, 20 extends in a direction substantially parallel to or coinciding with said longitudinal extension direction L. Said arms 18, 20 preferably extend substantially in line with the receiving platform 17. Advantageously, one, several, or each of the receiving means 19, 21 includes a respective locking system designed to lock the corresponding arm 18, 20 in position, such a configuration allowing in particular the securing of the stretcher 2 (and therefore the injured person on it) once it is placed on the receiving means 19, 21. Obviously, each locking system can be locked and unlocked at will, for example manually by the rescuers / operators.

[0059] According to an example of an embodiment of the invention, given by way of illustration and not limitation, the guide means 5 first moves from a transport position (not shown), in which the longitudinal extension direction L is substantially parallel to or coincides with the forward direction of travel of said vehicle, to a preliminary loading position, as illustrated in [Fig. 1]. The guide means 5, for example, performs a global rotation of 90° horizontally between the transport position and the preliminary loading position, which in practice corresponds to the retracted position and the substantially horizontal position of the guide means 5, as shown in [Fig. 1]. The guide means 5 then moves from the retracted position, as illustrated in [Fig. 1], to the deployed position, as illustrated in [Fig. 2], by translation of said guide means 5 relative to the support assembly 11.The guide means 5 remains substantially horizontal in both its deployed and retracted positions. This allows the tilt of the guide means 5 to be "unlocked." The guide means 5 can then move from the substantially horizontal position ([Fig. 2]) to the tilted position ([Fig. 3]) by rotation around the first axis of rotation A. Then, the first support element 8 moves from the raised position ([Fig. 3]) to the lowered position ([Fig. 4]) by translation, for example, using a manual pull by one or more rescuers / operators, possibly assisted by a second lifting device. The stretcher 2 is then loaded onto the first support element 8, which is all the easier since it is in the lowered position ([Fig. 5]).To this end, the primary arms 18 are placed on the receiving means 19 of the first support element 8, so as to at least partially block said stretcher 2 towards said first end 3 on said first support element 8 (eliminating at least one degree of freedom of the stretcher 2). Said stretcher 2 is then pushed by the rescuer(s) / operator(s), for example via said secondary arms 20, upwards (and towards the interior of the vehicle), and more precisely towards the primary end 6 of the guiding means 5. The first support element 8 then moves up along the guiding means 5, translating upwards until it returns to the raised position. Then, the secondary arms 20 are placed on the . receiving means 21 of the second support element 10, so as to at least partially block said stretcher 2 towards said second end 4 on the second support element 10 (removal of at least one degree of freedom of the stretcher 2), as illustrated in [Fig. 6]. It then suffices for the rescuers / operators to raise the guiding means 5, for example by lifting it by the secondary end 7 or said second support element 10, to move the guiding means 5, which is therefore loaded with said stretcher 2, from the inclined position to the substantially horizontal position, which would correspond to [Fig. 2] to which would be added the stretcher 2 of [Fig. 6], said stretcher 2 then being horizontal. The guiding means 5 then moves from the deployed position to the retracted position, which allows at least part of the stretcher to be placed inside the vehicle, which would correspond to [Fig.1] to which stretcher 2 of [Fig.6] would have to be added.Finally, the guiding means 5, loaded with the stretcher 2, moves from the preliminary loading position ([Fig.1] to which the stretcher of [Fig.6] should be added) to the transport position (not illustrated) on the one hand by rotation (90° for example) of the spacer 13 relative to the support assembly 11 along the secondary rotation axis _S, and on the other hand by rotation (180° for example) of the spacer 13 relative to the guiding means 5, which results in a rotation (90° for example) between the guiding means 5 and the support assembly 11 by optimizing the internal space of the vehicle.In summary, to simplify, the inclination of the guidance means 5 and the translation between the high and low positions of the first support element 8 facilitate the loading of the stretcher 2 by the device 1 and therefore by the vehicle, while the rotation of the guidance means 5 horizontally (along the primary axis V and secondary axis S) and the movement of the latter into the retracted or deployed position allows for better management of the position of the stretcher 2 within the vehicle and therefore its position relative to the operators / rescuers who can, for example, assist an injured person on said stretcher 2. Optionally, within the vehicle, the stretcher 2 then moves from the first positioning to the second positioning by horizontal translation, in order to place a part of the stretcher 2 and the individual (their legs for example) in the rear part of the internal space of the vehicle, such as the tail of a helicopter.In practice, the transition from the first to the second position can be achieved by sliding the guide means 5 translationally relative to the support assembly 11 from the retracted position to the deployed position, with the guide means 5 remaining entirely within the vehicle in both positions. Once the stretcher 2 is at least partially in the rear of the vehicle, in the second position, the locking means is engaged to secure the guide means 5 (which is therefore in the deployed position) to secure the stretcher and, in particular, the injured person on board.

[0060] According to a second aspect illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, the invention relates to a loading system comprising at least one stretcher 2 and a loading aid device 1 for said stretcher 2 as described above. The stretcher 2 and the loading aid device 1 are therefore advantageously as described above. The stretcher 2 of the loading system is therefore preferably designed to be received by, and optionally secured to, the loading aid device 1.

[0061] According to a third aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle equipped with a stretcher loading aid 1 for a stretcher 2 as described above. The vehicle, the loading aid 1, and the stretcher 2 are therefore advantageously as described above. The vehicle and the loading aid 1 are, for example, secured to each other via the support assembly 11 attached to the interior floor of the vehicle. The loading aid 1 is thus advantageously designed to assist in loading said stretcher 2 onto said vehicle.

[0062] The loading aid device 1 of the invention allows a stretcher 2 to be loaded quickly, safely and conveniently onto a vehicle, while minimizing the effort required by rescuers / operators to carry out this loading.

Claims

Demands

1. A device to assist in loading (1) a stretcher (2) onto a vehicle, said stretcher (2) extending longitudinally between a first and a second end (3, 4), said device (1) comprising at least: - a support assembly (11) intended to be secured to said vehicle, for example to the floor of said vehicle, - a substantially elongated and tiltable guide means (5) between a substantially horizontal position and an inclined position, said guide means (5) being mounted for rotation relative to said support assembly (11) about at least one primary axis of rotation (V) which is substantially vertical, - a first support element (8) designed to receive said stretcher (2) towards said first end (3), said first support element (8) being mounted for translation relative to said guide means (5) so that in an inclined position,said first support element (8) can move from a high position to a low position.

2. Loading aid device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said first support element (8) is designed to enter into mechanical connection with said stretcher (2) so as to eliminate at least one degree of freedom to the latter.

3. Loading aid device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a first return means (9) designed to exert a return force of the first support element (8) towards the upper position when said first support element (8) is positioned in the lower position and / or is located between the upper and lower positions, said first return means (9) comprising, for example, at least one gas spring, a spring, and / or an elastic return element.

4. A loading aid device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said guiding means (5) extends along a longitudinal extension direction (L), and in that the first support element (8) is designed to move from the upper position to the lower position, and vice versa, by performing a translational movement along a direction parallel to or coinciding with said longitudinal extension direction (L).

5. Loading aid device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said guiding means (5) comprises a guide rail, profile, and / or post.

6. Loading aid device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises a second support element (10) designed to receive said stretcher (2) towards said second end (4), said second support element (10) being integral with said guiding means (5).

7. Loading aid device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that when said guiding means (5) is in inclined position, said second support element (10) is at an altitude which is lower than that of said first support element (8).

8. Loading aid device (1) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that when said first support element (8) is in the lower position, it is closer to the second support element (10) than when it is in the upper position.

9. Loading aid device (1) according to at least claim 4, characterized in that the inclination of said guiding means (5) is carried out along a first axis of rotation (A) substantially perpendicular to said longitudinal extension direction (L).

10. Loading aid device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said guiding means (5) is mounted to translate relative to said support assembly (11) so that in a substantially horizontal position, said guiding means (5) can move from a retracted position to a deployed position in which it is further from a proximal point (12) of said support assembly (11) than in said retracted position, said proximal point (12) advantageously being intended to be positioned inside said vehicle.

11. Loading aid device (1) according to the preceding claim as well as according to claim 10, characterized in that the passage from one position to the other between said retracted and deployed positions is carried out by a translational movement along a direction parallel to or coinciding with said longitudinal extension direction (L).

12. Loading aid device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said guiding means (5) extends along a longitudinal extension direction (L), and in that said guiding means (5) can be placed, by rotation about said primary rotation axis (V), in a first transport position, in which the longitudinal extension direction (L) is substantially parallel to or coincides with the forward direction of said vehicle.

13. Loading system comprising at least one stretcher (2) and a device for assisting (1) in loading said stretcher (2) according to any one of the preceding claims.

14. Loading system according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said stretcher (2) comprises a receiving platform (17) and, towards said first end (3), two primary arms (18) projecting out of said receiving platform (17), and in that said first support element (8) comprises at least two receiving means (19) each designed to receive one of said two primary arms (18).

15. Vehicle equipped with a loading aid device (1) for a stretcher (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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