Devices and methods for transferring object

Abstract

To improve devices and methods for transferring an object.SOLUTION: A transfer device includes a device body, and an articulated transfer platform. The articulated transfer platform includes a distal platform segment and a plurality of intermediate platform segments. A distal locking mechanism is releasably securable to a locking mechanism of a lead intermediate platform segment, and locking mechanisms of successive intermediate platform segment are releasably securable to locking mechanisms of preceding intermediate platform segment. In a stowed position, the successive intermediate platform segments are positioned below the lead intermediate platform segment. In an extended position, the distal platform segment is located laterally away from the device body; the distal locking mechanism is secured to the locking mechanism of the lead intermediate platform segment; and the locking mechanism of the successive intermediate platform segment is secured to the locking mechanism of the lead intermediate platform segment.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3C

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (Related Applications) This patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 136,348, filed January 12, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to an apparatus and method for transferring an object from a location on a first surface onto the platform of the apparatus and then transporting the object onto a second surface (or back to the first surface), and more particularly to an apparatus and method for transporting an object using an articulated transport platform. [Background technology]

[0003] Countries around the world are facing an aging population whereby in the coming decades the majority of the population will be dependent rather than contributing to society. With this aging population comes an increasing number of people whose mobility is limited due to injury, illness, or old age. To be mobile, people need not only transportation (from point A to point B) but also transportation (from surface A to surface B).

[0004] There are a variety of transport aids that are often used to assist with mobility. Examples include walkers, wheelchairs, slings, transfer boards, and gantry hoists. Many of these devices have not been updated or improved in decades, and as a result, fundamental problems associated with operating these mobility devices remain. These include injuries to healthcare workers, declines in patient health and well-being as a result of interactions with these devices, and stress induced in the healthcare sector due to the impact of operating these devices.

[0005] In reality, however, these devices are greatly needed, as 30% to 60% of patients in long-term care facilities require mobility assistance to perform daily tasks such as eating or going to the bathroom. Without these devices, people remain largely immobile once their health begins to decline. Similar challenges exist when performing routine medical checkups or routinely transferring obese patients. In these situations, some form of transfer may be required, such as (but not limited to) transferring from a gurney to a medical imaging table (e.g., an MRI or CT scanner bed), temporarily moving a patient to perform a routine task (e.g., cleaning the bed, weighing the patient), or simply repositioning the body on an existing surface. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Currently, the most common devices used to assist with patient transfer consist of variations on lifts, slings, transfer boards, and seats. The lifts within these systems are referred to by the trade name Hoyer Lift, and Hoyer is a popular manufacturer of these devices. These lifts have been on the market for decades, with most innovations focused on improving or repackaging existing lift technology. Current technology typically places a significant burden on human operators, as it typically requires some form of "staging," in which a sling (or other strap or harness) must be inserted under the patient and then removed from under the patient after transfer. Furthermore, these devices are often expensive and can place a heavy burden on the operating budgets of long-term care and healthcare facilities. These devices are also prone to error, often resulting in numerous injuries and even death to the person being transferred. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The following introduction is provided to orient the reader to the more detailed discussion that follows. This introduction is not intended to limit or define the claimed or yet to be claimed inventions. One or more inventions may reside in any combination or subcombination of the elements or process steps disclosed in any part of this document, including the claims and drawings.

[0008] The transport apparatus disclosed herein includes an articulated transport platform and a transport belt that rides on the transport platform. The articulated platform includes a series of segments or slats that are connected to one another so that adjacent platform segments can pivot relative to one another.

[0009] The disclosed transport apparatus may be used to move an object from an initial starting position on one surface onto the apparatus platform, and then move the object again onto the same or a different desired surface. For example, the articulated platform may be extended to a position below the object to be moved (e.g., a human body), i.e., between the object and the surface on which it is supported, and then retracted with the object supported by the conveyor belt and articulated platform so that the object is positioned on the transport apparatus body. Additionally or alternatively, the articulated platform may be extended to move an object positioned on the transport apparatus body (i.e., supported on the conveyor belt) onto a remote surface.

[0010] A transport device having an articulated transport platform may have one or more advantages. For example, the ability of adjacent platform segments to pivot relative to one another may allow the transport platform to flex, curve, or otherwise conform to the shape of the underside of the object being moved (e.g., a human body) and / or the surface on which the object is placed (e.g., a soft mattress, a padded CT table). The ability of the articulated platform to deform in a controlled manner may result in reduced normal forces when extended beneath the object. As a result, there may be less chance of injury and / or discomfort to the object / patient being moved.

[0011] As another example, the articulated transport platform can be stored in a relatively small volume when in a stowed configuration, allowing a transport apparatus to have a transport platform that is laterally extendable a length greater than the width of the apparatus body (i.e., when the transport platform is in the stowed configuration). In other words, the articulated transport platform can be stored / stored within a volumetric space having a width less than the lateral reach of the platform.

[0012] Another advantage is that a transport device having an articulated transport platform can allow objects to be moved to / from both sides of the device. For example, the transport device can be positioned between an object to be moved (e.g., a patient on a hospital bed or gurney) and a surface to which the object is to be moved (e.g., a CT or MRI bed). An articulated transport platform can be extended from one side of the transport device and used to move the object from the first surface (e.g., a hospital gurney) onto the central portion of the transport device, and then an articulated transport platform can be extended from the other side of the transport device and used to move the object from the central portion of the transport device to the second surface (e.g., a CT bed).

[0013] The transport devices disclosed herein can be characterized as mechatronic in nature, utilizing, for example, a mechanical system with a computer-controlled, semi-autonomous or fully autonomous control system and associated control algorithms. Optionally, the control system can enable the transport device to perform desired object movement operations in a consistent, repeatable, predictable, and safe manner.

[0014] According to one broad aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a device body having a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side; a tip having the first end, the second end, a leading edge extending between the first end and the second end, a trailing edge extending between the first end and the second end, and a tip locking mechanism. a plurality of intermediate platform segments, each including a leading intermediate platform segment and one or more trailing intermediate platform segments, each having a first end, a second end, a first edge extending between the first end and the second end, a second edge extending between the first end and the second end, and a mid-locking mechanism; wherein the leading locking mechanism is releasably securable to the mid-locking mechanism of the leading intermediate platform segment, and the mid-locking mechanism of each trailing intermediate platform segment is releasably securable to the mid-locking mechanism of the preceding intermediate platform segment; and wherein, in a stowed position, the one or more trailing intermediate platform segments are disposed below the leading intermediate platform segment, and in an extended position, the leading platform segment is positioned laterally away from the device body, and the leading locking mechanism is secured to the mid-locking mechanism of the leading intermediate platform segment, and the mid-locking mechanism of one of the trailing intermediate platform segments is secured to the mid-locking mechanism of the leading intermediate platform segment.

[0015] In some embodiments, a tip locking mechanism is located proximate the first end of the tip platform segment, and for each intermediate platform segment, a middle locking mechanism is located proximate the first end of the intermediate platform segment.

[0016] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus further comprises a transport apparatus controller configured to control the articulated transport platform.

[0017] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus further comprises a platform lateral actuator operably coupled to the transport apparatus controller, the platform lateral actuator configured to selectively move the tip platform segment and the intermediate platform segment secured thereto laterally relative to the apparatus body.

[0018] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus further comprises a platform segment support assembly operably coupled to the transport apparatus controller, the platform segment support assembly configured to selectively lift one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments to align an intermediate locking mechanism of the lifted subsequent intermediate platform segment with an intermediate locking mechanism of a preceding intermediate platform segment.

[0019] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus further comprises a platform segment release actuator operably coupled to the transport apparatus controller, the platform segment release actuator configured to selectively release the locking mechanism of a subsequent platform segment.

[0020] In some embodiments, in the stowed position, the tip platform segment is at least partially above the device body.

[0021] In some embodiments, the tip platform segment is fixed to the leading intermediate platform segment.

[0022] In some embodiments, in the stowed position, subsequent intermediate platform segments are stacked vertically below the leading intermediate platform segment.

[0023] In some embodiments, when the tip platform segment and the intermediate platform segment of the articulated transport platform are fixed to each other to form fixed segments, the fixed segments may rotate axially relative to each other by approximately 1° to 30°, or approximately 10° to 20°, or approximately 15°.

[0024] In some embodiments, when the leading platform segment and the intermediate platform segment of the articulated transport platform are secured together to form a fixed segment, the fixed segment is biased toward a neutral alignment in which adjacent segments are generally planar.

[0025] In some embodiments, when the leading platform segment and the intermediate platform segment of the articulated transport platform are fixed together to form a fixed segment, the magnitude of the bias towards the neutral alignment is selectively adjustable.

[0026] In some embodiments, the device body has a width between a first side and a second side of the device body, and in the extended position, the distance between the leading edge of the tip platform segment and the first side of the device body is greater than the width of the device body.

[0027] In some embodiments, the width of the device body is between about 400 mm and 1000 mm, and in the extended position, the distance between the leading edge of the tip platform segment and the first side of the device body is between about 600 mm and 1400 mm.

[0028] In some embodiments, the tip locking mechanism comprises one or more recesses.

[0029] In some embodiments, the tip locking mechanism comprises one or more protrusions.

[0030] In some embodiments, the mid-locking mechanism comprises one or more protrusions and one or more recesses.

[0031] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus further comprises a transport belt having a first end fixed to the first drive roller and a second end fixed to the second drive roller, the belt extending from the first drive roller around the leading edge of the tip platform segment, over the top surface of the articulated transport platform, and to the second drive roller, the first drive roller and the second drive roller being operably coupled to the transport apparatus controller.

[0032] In some embodiments, the conveying belt is a first conveying belt, and the conveying apparatus further includes a second conveying belt extending below the bottom surface of the articulated conveying platform, the second conveying belt coupled to an actuator operably coupled to the conveying apparatus controller.

[0033] In some embodiments, the conveying apparatus further comprises a belt handling system comprising at least one of an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least an upper surface of the conveying belt, a fluid emitter configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least an upper surface of the conveying belt, and a fluid agitator configured to agitate fluid in a fluid container configured for the conveying belt to pass through.

[0034] In some embodiments, a conveying device controller is operably coupled to the belt processing system, and the conveying device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid emitter, and the fluid agitator, either simultaneously or separately from one another.

[0035] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus further comprises a platform segment processing system comprising at least one of an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least an upper surface of one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments, a fluid dispenser configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least the upper surface of one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments, and a fluid agitator configured to agitate fluid in a fluid container configured to be passed by one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments.

[0036] In some embodiments, a transport device controller is operably coupled to the platform segment processing system, and the transport device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid emitter, and the fluid agitator, either simultaneously or separately from one another.

[0037] In some embodiments, the transport device further comprises an apparatus support structure fixed to the apparatus body for supporting the apparatus body above the floor surface, the apparatus support structure being configurable to adjust the height of the apparatus body from the floor surface and / or the angle of the apparatus body.

[0038] In some embodiments, the device support structure comprises a plurality of wheels that facilitate movement of the transport device across a floor surface.

[0039] In some embodiments, at least one of the wheels is driven by a motor so that the transport device can move itself across a floor surface.

[0040] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus comprises a plurality of controllable subsystems, and the transport apparatus controller comprises a plurality of controllers configured to control the articulated transport platform and all of the controllable subsystems.

[0041] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus comprises multiple controllable subsystems and the transport apparatus controller comprises a single controller configured to control the articulated transport platform and all of the controllable subsystems.

[0042] According to another broad aspect, there is provided a transport device comprising: an apparatus body having a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side; and an articulated transport platform comprising a tip platform segment and a plurality of intermediate platform segments, each platform segment having a first end, a second end, and segment links disposed at each of the first end and the second end, the tip platform segment having a leading edge, the segment links of adjacent platform segments being pivotally coupled to each other, the segment links of adjacent platform segments being configured to be selectively constrained to aligned positions, wherein in a stowed position, the platform segments of the articulated transport platform engage an internal track of the apparatus body, and as the articulated transport platform is extended from the stowed position, the tip platform segment extends laterally away from the apparatus body, the segment links of subsequent platform segments being constrained to the aligned positions as they exit the internal track, and as the articulated transport platform is retracted, the segment links of subsequent platform segments are released from the aligned positions as they enter the internal track.

[0043] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus further comprises a transport apparatus controller configured to control the articulated transport platform.

[0044] In some embodiments, the articulated transport platform is a first articulated transport platform, the tip platform segment is a first tip platform segment, the middle platform segment is a first middle platform segment, and the internal track is a first internal track, and the transport apparatus further comprises a second articulated transport platform comprising a second tip platform segment and a plurality of second middle platform segments, each second platform segment having a first end, a second end, and a segment link disposed at each of the first and second ends, the second tip platform segment having a leading edge, and the segment links of adjacent second platform segments are pivotable relative to one another. and configured such that the segment links of adjacent second platform segments are selectively constrained to the aligned positions, wherein in the stowed position, the platform segments of the second articulated transport platform engage the second internal track of the apparatus body, and as the second articulated transport platform is extended from the stowed position, the second leading platform segment extends laterally away from the apparatus body, and the segment links of the trailing second platform segment are constrained to the aligned positions upon exiting the second internal track, and as the second articulated transport platform is retracted, the segment links of the trailing second platform segment are released from the aligned positions upon entering the second internal track.

[0045] According to another broad aspect, an articulated transport platform includes an apparatus body having a first side and a second side; a first tip platform segment, a plurality of intermediate platform segments, and a second tip platform segment, each platform segment having a first end, a second end, and segment links disposed at each of the first and second ends, and each tip platform segment having a leading edge, wherein the segment links of adjacent platform segments are pivotally coupled to one another and configured to be selectively constrained to an aligned position, and wherein in a stowed position, the platform segments of the articulated transport platform engage internal tracks of the apparatus body, and the articulated transport platform A transport device is provided in which, as the transport platform is extended from a first side of the device body, a first tip platform segment extends laterally away from the device body and the segment links of the subsequent intermediate platform segment are constrained to an aligned position when they exit the internal track, and as the articulated transport platform is extended from a second side of the device body, a second tip platform segment extends laterally away from the device body and the segment links of the subsequent intermediate platform segment are constrained to an aligned position when they exit the internal track, and the segment links are released from the aligned position when the intermediate platform segment enters the internal track.

[0046] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus further comprises a transport apparatus controller configured to control the articulated transport platform.

[0047] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus further comprises a transport belt having a first end fixed to the first drive roller and a second end fixed to the second drive roller, the belt extending from the first drive roller around the leading edge of the first tip platform segment, over the top surface of the articulated transport platform, and to the second drive roller, the first drive roller and the second drive roller being operably coupled to the transport apparatus controller.

[0048] In some embodiments, the conveying belt is a first conveying belt, and the conveying device further includes a second conveying belt extending below the bottom surface of the articulated conveying platform on a first side of the device body, and a third conveying belt extending below the bottom surface of the articulated conveying platform on a second side of the device body, and the second conveying belt and the third conveying belt are coupled to an actuator operably coupled to the conveying device controller.

[0049] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus further comprises an engagement plate positioned proximate an end of the internal track, the engagement plate configured to constrain adjacent segment links as they pass the engagement plate as the articulated transport platform is extended, and configured to release the constraining force as adjacent segment links pass the engagement plate as the articulated transport platform is retracted.

[0050] In some embodiments, the transport device further comprises a first engagement plate adjacent a first end of the internal track and a second engagement plate adjacent a second end of the internal track, the first and second engagement plates configured to constrain adjacent segment links when exiting the internal track and to unconstrain adjacent segment links when entering the internal track.

[0051] In some embodiments, the device body has a width between a first side and a second side of the device body, and when the articulated transport platform is fully extended from the first side of the device body, the distance between the leading edge of the first tip platform segment and the first side of the device body is greater than the width of the device body.

[0052] In some embodiments, the conveying apparatus further comprises a belt handling system comprising at least one of an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least an upper surface of the conveying belt, a fluid dispenser configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least an upper surface of the conveying belt, and a fluid agitator configured to agitate fluid in a fluid container configured for the conveying belt to pass through.

[0053] In some embodiments, a conveying device controller is operably coupled to the belt processing system, and the conveying device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid emitter, and the fluid agitator, either simultaneously or separately from one another.

[0054] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus further comprises a platform segment processing system comprising at least one of an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least an upper surface of one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments, a fluid dispenser configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least an upper surface of one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments, and a fluid agitator configured to agitate fluid in a fluid container configured to be passed by one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments.

[0055] In some embodiments, a transport device controller is operably coupled to the platform segment processing system, and the transport device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid emitter, and the fluid agitator, either simultaneously or separately from one another.

[0056] In some embodiments, the transport device further comprises an apparatus support structure fixed to the apparatus body for supporting the apparatus body above the floor surface, the apparatus support structure being configurable to adjust the height of the apparatus body from the floor surface and / or the angle of the apparatus body.

[0057] In some embodiments, the device support structure comprises a plurality of wheels that facilitate movement of the transport device across a floor surface.

[0058] In some embodiments, at least one of the wheels is driven by a motor so that the transport device can move itself across a floor surface.

[0059] In some embodiments, the transport device comprises a plurality of controllable subsystems, and the transport device control The troller includes a plurality of controllers configured to control the articulated transport platform and all controllable subsystems.

[0060] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus comprises multiple controllable subsystems, and the transport apparatus controller comprises a single controller configured to control the articulated transport platform and all of the controllable subsystems.

[0061] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the methods or apparatus disclosed herein may embody any one or more of the features contained herein, which features may be used in any specific combination or subcombination.

[0062] These and other aspects and features of various embodiments are described in further detail below. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0063] For a better understanding of the described embodiments, and to show more clearly how they may be carried into effect, reference is made by way of example to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a transport device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the conveyor of FIG. 1 with the conveyor belt omitted for clarity. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a schematic end view of the transport apparatus of FIG. 1 with the transport platform in a stowed position. [Figure 3B] 3B is a schematic end view of the transport apparatus of FIG. 1 with the transport platform in an extended position to a first side of the transport apparatus. [Figure 3C] 3C is a schematic end view of the transport apparatus of FIG. 1 with the transport platform in an extended position to a second side of the transport apparatus. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a transport device according to another embodiment, with the transport belt omitted for clarity. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the transport device of FIG. 1 with the housing portion omitted for clarity. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the transport device of FIG. 5 with the support base omitted for clarity. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the conveyor of FIG. 6 with the conveyor belt omitted for clarity. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a plan view of the transport device of FIG. [Figure 9] 9 is a side view of the transport device of FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the conveyor belt path of the conveyor of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an end view of the transport device of FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an end view of the transport apparatus of FIG. 7 with a portion of the support plate removed to show the transport belt tensioner assembly. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a first perspective view of a belt tensioner assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a second perspective view of the belt tensioner assembly of FIG. 13 shown with an exemplary linear displacement sensor. [Figure 15A] 15A is a partial cross-sectional view of the belt tensioner assembly of FIG. 13 with the movable frame member in an extended position. [Figure 15B] 15B is a partial cross-sectional view of the belt tensioner assembly of FIG. 13 with the movable frame member in a partially compressed position. [Figure 15C]15C is a partial cross-sectional view of the belt tensioner assembly of FIG. 13 with the movable frame member in a compressed position. [Figure 16] 16 is a perspective view of the exterior of the end drive assembly of the transport apparatus of FIG. 7, with the motor assembly and drive belt omitted for clarity. [Figure 17] 17 is a perspective view of the inside of the end drive assembly of FIG. 16. FIG. [Figure 18] 18 is a perspective view of a motor assembly for the end drive assembly of FIG. 11. FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is another perspective view of the motor assembly of FIG. [Figure 20] 20 is a perspective view of a mid-platform segment support assembly for the end drive assembly of FIG. 16, with some components shown semi-transparent for clarity. [Figure 21] 21 is an end view of the intermediate platform segment support assembly of FIG. 20, with some portions shown in partial cross-section for clarity. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a top perspective view of the ends of the intermediate platform segments positioned between the ends of the tip platform segments, with the cover plates for the engagement mechanisms removed for clarity. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a plan view, partially cross-sectional for clarity, of the engagement feature of the intermediate platform segment. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a plan view of the engagement mechanism of the intermediate platform segment, shown partially in section for clarity, and with the platform segment disengaged from the adjacent distal platform segment. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a plan view of the engagement mechanism of FIG. 24, with the platform segment engaged to the adjacent tip platform segment. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a top perspective view of the end of the delivery device with housing portions and other components removed for clarity. [Figure 27]27 is a side view of the end of the delivery device of FIG. 26 with housing portions and other components removed or shown in partial cross section for clarity. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an engagement actuator according to one embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of an offset engagement actuator according to one embodiment. [Figure 30] 30 is a side view of the engagement actuator of FIG. 28 with the engagement arm in a first position. [Figure 31] 31 is a side view of the engagement actuator of FIG. 28 with the engagement arm in a second position. [Figure 32] 32 is a top perspective view of the engagement mechanism of FIG. 24 with the release actuator in a depressed position. [Figure 33] 33 is a top perspective view of the engagement mechanism of FIG. 24 with the release actuator in a retracted position. [Figure 34] 34 is a perspective view of the platform segments, intermediate platform segment supports, and platform drive pinions of the transport apparatus of FIG. 1 with the platform segments in a stowed position. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the platform segments, intermediate platform segment supports, and platform drive pinions of FIG. 34 with the platform segments in a partially extended position. [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the platform segment, intermediate platform segment support, and platform drive pinion of FIG. 34 with the platform segment in a fully extended position. [Figure 37A] 37A-37C are a series of schematic elevational views showing the extendable transport platform of FIG. 1 being used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Figure 37B]37B is a series of schematic elevational views showing the extendable transport platform of FIG. 1 being used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Figure 37C] 37A-37C are a series of schematic elevational views showing the extendable transport platform of FIG. 1 being used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Figure 37D] 37D is a series of schematic elevational views showing the extendable transport platform of FIG. 1 being used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Figure 37E] 37E is a series of schematic elevational views showing the extendable transport platform of FIG. 1 being used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Figure 37F] 37F is a series of schematic elevational views showing the extendable transport platform of FIG. 1 being used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Figure 37G] 37G is a series of schematic elevational views showing the extendable transport platform of FIG. 1 being used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Figure 37H] 37H is a series of schematic elevational views showing the extendable transport platform of FIG. 1 being used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is an end view of a transport device according to another embodiment with the housing portion omitted for clarity and the platform extension support in the extended position. [Figure 39] 39 is an end view of the transport apparatus of FIG. 38 with the platform extension support in a stowed position. [Figure 40] FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a portion of the delivery device of FIG. [Figure 41] FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a portion of the delivery device of FIG. [Figure 42]FIG. 42 is a perspective view of a transport device according to another embodiment, with the housing portion and support base omitted for clarity. [Figure 43] FIG. 43 is a perspective view of the transport apparatus of FIG. 42 with the first articulated transport platform in an extended position. [Figure 44] FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the transport apparatus of FIG. 42 with the second articulated transport platform in an extended position. [Figure 45] 45 is a plan view of the transport device of FIG. [Figure 46] 46 is a side view of the transport device of FIG. [Figure 47] FIG. 47 is an end view of the transport device of FIG. [Figure 48] 48 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of the transport apparatus of FIG. 42 taken along line 48-48 of FIG. 46. FIG. [Figure 49] 49 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the end drive assemblies and transport platforms of the transport apparatus of FIG. 42 taken along line 48-48 of FIG. 46 with the first and second articulated transport platforms in a stowed position. [Figure 50] Figure 50 is an oblique cross-sectional view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of the transport device of Figure 42 taken along line 48-48 of Figure 46, with the first articulated transport platform in an extended position and the second articulated transport platform in a stowed position. [Figure 51] 51 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. [Figure 52] Figure 52 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of the transport device of Figure 42 taken along line 48-48 of Figure 46, with the first articulated transport platform in a stowed position and the second articulated transport platform in an extended position. [Figure 53] 53 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. 52. FIG. [Figure 54]FIG. 54 is another perspective view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. 50 with the base plate of the end drive assembly removed for clarity. [Figure 55] 55 is an end view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. 54. FIG. [Figure 56] FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. 54 with a portion of the end drive assembly removed for clarity. [Figure 57] 57 is an end view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. 56. FIG. [Figure 58] 58 is another perspective view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. 56. FIG. [Figure 59] FIG. 59 is an enlarged view of area C in FIG. [Figure 60] 60 is a side view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. 58. FIG. [Figure 61] FIG. 61 is an enlarged view of area B in FIG. [Figure 62A] FIG. 62A is a side view of a segment link of an articulated transport platform segment, with the segment link in an unlocked position. [Figure 62B] FIG. 62B is a bottom view of the segment link of FIG. 62A. [Figure 62C] FIG. 62C is an end view of the segment link of FIG. 62A. [Figure 63A] FIG. 63A is a side view of a segment link of an articulated transport platform segment with the segment link in a locked configuration. [Figure 63B] FIG. 63B is a bottom view of the segment link of FIG. 63A. [Figure 63C] FIG. 63C is an end view of the segment link of FIG. 63A. [Figure 64] 64 is a top view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. [Figure 65]FIG. 65 is an enlarged view of area A of FIG. 64 with a portion of the segment link removed for clarity. [Figure 66] FIG. 66 is another enlarged view of area A of FIG. 64 with additional portions of the segment links cut away for clarity. [Figure 67] 67 is a bottom view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. 56. FIG. [Figure 68] FIG. 68 is an enlarged view of area E of FIG. 67, with a portion of the engagement plate shown in cross section for clarity. [Figure 69] 69 is a perspective view of the transport platform, guide track and drive pinion of the transport apparatus of FIG. [Figure 70] FIG. 70 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an end drive assembly and transport platform of a transport apparatus according to another embodiment. [Figure 71] 71 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. 70. FIG. [Figure 72] 72 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. 70 with the articulated transport platform in a fully extended position. [Figure 73] 73 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the end drive assembly and transport platform of FIG. 72. FIG. [Figure 74A] FIG. 74A is a series of schematic elevational views showing another extendable transport platform used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Figure 74B] FIG. 74B is a series of schematic elevational views showing another extendable transport platform used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Figure 74C] FIG. 74C is a series of schematic elevational views showing another extendable transport platform used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Fig. 74D]FIG. 74D is a series of schematic elevational views showing another extendable transport platform used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Figure 74E] FIG. 74E is a series of schematic elevational views showing another extendable transport platform used to move a person from a gurney onto the bed of a medical imaging scanner. [Figure 75] FIG. 75 is a schematic diagram of the conveyor belt path of the conveyor of FIGS. 74A-E.

[0064] The drawings included herein are intended to illustrate various examples of the articles, methods, and apparatus of the teachings herein and are not intended to limit the scope of the teachings in any way. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0065] Various devices, methods, and configurations are described below to provide example embodiments of each claimed invention. The embodiments described below do not limit the claimed inventions, as the claimed inventions may encompass devices and methods different from those described below. The claimed inventions are not limited to devices, methods, and configurations having all of the features of any one device, method, or configuration described below, or to features common to more than one or all of the device, method, or configurations described below. Not all devices, methods, or configurations described below may be embodiments of any claimed invention. Inventions disclosed in the devices, methods, or configurations described below but not claimed herein may be the subject of other means of protection, for example, a continuing or divisional patent application, and the applicant, inventor, and / or owner do not intend to abandon, disclaim, or offer to the public such inventions by disclosure in this document.

[0066] Furthermore, it will be understood that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. Moreover, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments described herein. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the exemplary embodiments described herein. Moreover, this description should not be considered to limit the scope of the embodiments described herein. (Overview of the transport device)

[0067] 1-36 illustrate an embodiment of a transport device 100 that can be used to move a human body (or object) from a first location to a second location and / or reposition a human body (or object) on a surface. In this section, an overview of the transport device 100 will be described with reference to some of the drawings. It should be understood at the outset that the transport device 100 is shown with very specific features for illustrative purposes only. Other implementations are possible and within the scope of this disclosure.

[0068] 1 and 2, transport apparatus 100 includes an apparatus body 110 having a first end 101, a second end 102, a first side 113, and a second side 114. Transport apparatus 100 also includes platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h that can form an articulated transport platform. In some embodiments, transport apparatus 100 includes a transport belt 150 that covers platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h, as shown in FIG. 1. Note that transport belt 150 has been removed from FIG. 2 for clarity and to expose platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h.

[0069] In some embodiments, the platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h of the articulated transport platform include a first leading platform segment 210, a second leading platform segment 220, and a plurality of middle platform segments 230a-h. However, only one of the middle platform segments 230a-h, namely the leading middle platform segment 230a, is visible in Figure 2. Referring to Figure 10, all other middle platform segments 230b-h are shown in a stacked configuration below the leading middle platform segment 230a and are therefore not visible in Figure 2.

[0070] 7 and 8, the positioning and orientation of the platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h can be seen. The first tip platform segment 210 has a first end 211, a second end 212, and a leading edge 213 disposed adjacent the first side 113 of the device body 110. The second tip platform segment 220 has a first end 221, a second end 222, and a leading edge 224 disposed adjacent the second side 114 of the device body 110. The leading intermediate platform segment 230a has a first end 231a, a second end 232a, a first side 233a disposed adjacent the trailing edge 214 of the first tip platform segment 210, and a second side 234a disposed adjacent the trailing edge 223 of the second tip platform segment 220.

[0071] 3A-3C, an example operation of the transport apparatus 100 is shown schematically, illustrating how the platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h can be used to extend the articulated transport platform 250. In the position shown in FIG. 3A (sometimes referred to as the stowed or retracted position), the intermediate platform segments 230b-h are centrally positioned within the apparatus body 110, and are positioned below the leading intermediate platform segment 230a, for example, in the stacked configuration shown in FIG.

[0072] 3B, the articulated transport platform 250a is extended or "built" from the first side 113 of the device body 110. As described further below, the articulated transport platform 250a may be "built" by securing the first side 233a of the leading intermediate platform segment 230a to the trailing edge 214 of the first tip platform segment 210, moving the first tip platform segment 210 and the leading intermediate platform segment 230a laterally outward, and connecting the trailing intermediate platform segments 230b-h to each other as the transport platform 250a is extended.

[0073] 3C, the articulated transport platform 250b is extended or "built" from the second side 114 of the device body 110. In this example, the articulated transport platform 250b may be "built" by securing the second side 234a of the leading intermediate platform segment 230a to the trailing edge 223 of the second tip platform segment 220, moving the second tip platform segment 220 and the leading intermediate platform segment 230a laterally outward, and connecting the trailing intermediate platform segments 230b-h to each other as the transport platform 250b is extended.

[0074] In some embodiments, some or all of the platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h have locking mechanisms that allow adjacent segments 210, 220, and 230a-h to be secured together when they are extended outward from the device body 110. In this manner, the articulated transport platform 250a or 250b has structural support to provide an outward force when extended or "built-up" from the device body 110. Additionally, the locking mechanisms may unlock and retract the platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h, thereby allowing for a relatively compact design of the transport apparatus 100 when in the stowed or retracted position. Thus, the combination of platform segments 210, 220 and 230a-h and the locking mechanism allows both (i) the articulated transport platform 250a or 250b to provide structural support when extended outward, and (i) the articulated transport platform 250a or 250b to be stored in a manner that allows for a relatively compact design.

[0075] In some embodiments, the leading platform segment has a leading locking mechanism located proximate a first end of the leading platform segment, and each intermediate platform segment has a mid-locking mechanism located proximate a first end of the intermediate platform segment. However, other locations of the leading and mid-locking mechanisms are possible and within the scope of this disclosure. In some embodiments, the leading locking mechanism is releasably securable to the mid-locking mechanism of the leading intermediate platform segment, and the mid-locking mechanism of each subsequent intermediate platform segment is releasably securable to the mid-locking mechanism of the preceding intermediate platform segment.

[0076] In some embodiments, in the stowed position, one or more trailing intermediate platform segments are positioned below the leading intermediate platform segment, for example, in a stacked configuration as shown in Figure 10. In some embodiments, in the extended position, the leading platform segment is positioned laterally away from the device body, the leading locking mechanism is secured to the mid-locking mechanism of the leading intermediate platform segment, and the mid-locking mechanism of one of the trailing intermediate platform segments is secured to the mid-locking mechanism of the leading intermediate platform segment.

[0077] Referring again to FIGS. 3A to 3C, the device body 110 has a width W D and height H D The device body 110 is located at a distance H from the floor service F. floor In some embodiments, the articulated transport platform 250a may be supported only above the first side 113 of the device body 110 by an extended or cantilevered distance D, as shown in FIG. extend_1 The platform is extended by the total width W extend_1 In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3C, the articulated transport platform 250b may be extended or cantilevered from the second side 114 of the device body 110 by a distance D. extend_2 The platform is extended by the total width W extend_2 can provide.

[0078] In some embodiments, as can be seen in FIGS. 3A-3C, the articulated transport platform 250 has an extension distance D extend_1 is the width W of the device body 110 D In some embodiments, the articulated transport platform 250 can extend at least twice the width of the device body 110. For example, if the width of the device body 110 is W D = 480 mm, the articulated transport platform 250 is preferably about D extend_1 = 800 mm, approximately W extend_1= 1280 millimeters overall platform width. In another embodiment, a transport apparatus having a device body width of about 800 millimeters may have an articulated transport platform whose leading edge can extend outward from the edge of the device body by about 1200 millimeters. More generally, in some embodiments, a transport apparatus having a device body width of about 400-1000 millimeters may have an articulated transport platform whose leading edge can extend outward from the edge of the device body by about 600-1400 millimeters.

[0079] Allowing the articulated transport platform 250a to extend at least twice the width of the apparatus body 110 may provide one or more advantages. For example, this may facilitate maneuvering the transport apparatus 100 through narrow hallways and / or reduce the storage footprint of the transport apparatus when the articulated transport platform is stowed. This is made possible by the combination of the platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h and the locking mechanisms, as described above.

[0080] Relatively narrow width W D This can advantageously facilitate the handling of the transport apparatus 100 and / or reduce its storage footprint. However, in some cases, the transport apparatus 100 may have a relatively wider width W D For example, the device body 110 may have a wider, non-cantilevered support surface to increase comfort and / or safety when moving the patient between locations by moving the transport device 100 across a floor surface.

[0081] The above examples focus on embodiments of the transport apparatus 100 that implement an articulated transport platform using platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h that are removably secureable to one another via locking mechanisms. However, in other embodiments, the platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h are pivotally coupled to one another (e.g., using segment links) and are movable within the internal track. In such embodiments, the platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h are configured to be selectively constrained to an aligned position when exiting the internal track, and conversely, are unconstrained from the aligned position when entering the internal track. In the stowed position, the intermediate platform segments may not be in the stacked configuration shown in FIG. 10 but rather may be positioned within the internal track.

[0082] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus 100 includes a support structure 188 that can be configured to adjust the height and / or angle of the apparatus body 110 from the floor F. In some embodiments, the support structure 188 can adjust the height and tilt of the apparatus body 110 in both the major and minor axes. In some embodiments, the support structure 188 includes actuators coupled to the transport apparatus controller to control the height and / or tilt of the apparatus body 110. This can change the proximity angle of the articulated transport platform before or during transport to reduce reaction forces on the apparatus, reduce pressure on the patient (or subject) being moved, or allow the patient to assume a medically beneficial position, such as Trendelenburg or reverse Trendelenburg, while on the transport platform. The operation of these support actuators may be controlled by the main transport apparatus controller, or may be controlled individually by their own controllers and operate in parallel through electronic communication with the transport controller.

[0083] In the illustrated example, platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h include both a first tip platform segment 210 and a second tip platform segment 220, and articulated transport platforms 250a and 250b can extend outward in two directions (i.e., articulated transport platform 250a can extend outward in a first direction as shown in FIG. 3B, and articulated transport platform 250b can extend outward in a second direction as shown in FIG. 3C). In other embodiments, segments 210, 220, and 230a-h can include only one tip platform segment and can extend outward in only one direction. Other embodiments are possible.

[0084] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus 100 includes a transport apparatus controller that can control one or more actuators (e.g., motors) that extend or retract the articulated transport platforms 250a or 250b and / or control the slack of the transport belt 150. In some embodiments, the transport apparatus controller is coupled to one or more sensors of the transport apparatus 100 and uses data from the sensors when operating the transport apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the controller directly controls the transport apparatus 100 in synchronization with its subsystems, provides feedback to a user regarding the status of the transport apparatus 100, and uses the monitored status to provide safe operation (e.g., automatically shutting down the system if the transport apparatus 100 is operating in an unsafe manner).

[0085] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus controller is a single controller (e.g., a single microcontroller) configured to handle all controllable subsystems of the transport apparatus 100. In other embodiments, the transport apparatus controller includes multiple controllers (e.g., separate microcontrollers) for handling the controllable subsystems of the transport apparatus 100. Thus, the term "transport apparatus controller" encompasses one or more controllers (e.g., one or more microcontrollers). The purpose of using more than one controller may be to advantageously physically locate the controller within the transport apparatus 100 to shorten sensor transmission lengths, increase redundancy, and / or reduce latency. Multiple controllers may be utilized due to practical limitations of current state-of-the-art controllers (e.g., the number of available general-purpose inputs and outputs). For example, a first controller may be located at the first end 101 and a second controller may be located at the second end 102 to independently acquire signals from sensors attached to each end.

[0086] There are many possibilities for controllable subsystems of the transport apparatus 100. As described herein, some possible controllable subsystems may include platform lateral actuators, platform segment support assemblies, platform segment release actuators, drive rollers for the transport belt, a belt handling system, and / or a platform segment handling system. Additional or other controllable subsystems may be possible.

[0087] In some embodiments, one or more actuators controlled by the transport device controller are powered via a battery, which can aid in making the transport device 100 portable. For example, referring to Figure 5, transport device 100 is shown with the housing and control panel 190 removed for clarity and to reveal the battery pack 130, which can power the transport device controller, actuators (e.g., motors), etc. of transport device 100. Alternatively, a battery pack may not be provided, and transport device 100 may be connected to an external power source.

[0088] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus 100 has at least one control panel coupled to a transport apparatus controller that allows a user to operate the transport apparatus 100. For example, referring back to FIGS. 1 and 2 , the transport apparatus 100 has two control panels 190a, 190b, including one control panel 190a at the first end 101 of the apparatus body 110 and another control panel 190b at the second end 102 of the transport apparatus 100. It will be understood that in other embodiments, there may be only one control panel. Alternatively, or in addition, the transport apparatus 100 may be configured to be controlled from a remote device (e.g., a pendant or tethered remote control device, a mobile computing device such as a tablet or laptop computer, or a control panel located elsewhere in the room in which the transport apparatus is located or in an adjacent room), in which case the transport apparatus 100 may omit the control panel.

[0089] In some embodiments, the articulated transport platform 250a or 250b is covered by the conveyor belt 150, including when it is extended outward from the apparatus body 110 and when it is retracted back toward the apparatus body 110. In some embodiments, the transport apparatus controller controls the conveyor belt 150 using one or more actuators to prevent the top surface of the conveyor belt 150 from moving and to prevent or relieve excessive slack in the conveyor belt 150 when the articulated transport platform 250a or 250b is extended outward from the apparatus body 110 or retracted back toward the apparatus body 110.

[0090] The examples described herein broadly focus on a transport apparatus 100 having a transport apparatus controller configured to control an articulated transport platform, optionally with additional functionality as described herein. However, in alternative embodiments, the transport apparatus 100 can be implemented without a transport apparatus controller. For example, the transport apparatus 100 can be designed to be fully analog and function without a device controller.

[0091] In some embodiments, the transport apparatus 100 has a base 120 that includes wheels 125 to facilitate moving the transport apparatus 100 across a floor surface. Some or all of the wheels 125 can be driven by a motor, allowing the transport apparatus 100 to move itself across a floor surface. However, it will be understood that the wheels 125 are optional. In other embodiments, the transport apparatus 100 is not configured to be easily moved across a floor service. For example, referring to FIG. 4 , the transport apparatus 100 can have a fixed base 120 without wheels 125. Such an embodiment can be advantageous when the transport apparatus 100 is not intended to move during normal operation. For example, the transport apparatus 100 may be in a fixed position adjacent to the bed of a CT or MRI machine.

[0092] (Movement of the human body) An example of the operation of transport apparatus 100 in transferring a human body from a first surface to a second surface will now be described with reference to Figures 37A-H. The operation will be described in relation to transport apparatus 100 transferring human body 10 from a gurney 20 to a bed 30 (e.g., a bed coupled to a medical imaging device such as a CT or MRI scanner). However, it will be understood that transport apparatus 100 can be used to transfer a human body (or other object) from or onto any elevated surface in substantially the same manner.

[0093] The transport device 100 is positioned between the litter 20 on which the body to be moved is located and the bed 30, for example, in the position shown in Figure 37A, with the leading edge of the tip platform segment at the same height as the surface of the litter 20 on which the body 10 is supported. For example, the transport platform 100 may be supported by a wheeled base 120 as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0094] Referring to Figure 37B, a platform lateral actuator (e.g., a platform drive pinion 382, ​​as described below; not shown in Figures 37A-H) can be used to extend the leading edge of the articulated transport platform (i.e., the leading edge of the tip platform segment) laterally outward from the side of the transport apparatus 100. As shown in Figures 37B-37D, as the tip platform segment is extended, one or more intermediate platform segments 230 sequentially engage to form the articulated transport platform 250. The articulated transport platform 250 can be extended until at least a portion of the articulated transport platform 250 is positioned below the human body 10 (preferably completely between the surface of the litter 20 and the human body 10), with a portion of the transport belt 150 positioned between the transport platform 250 and the human body 10.

[0095] In some embodiments, the movement of the articulated transport platform 250 and / or the transport belt 150 is controlled to provide limited relative motion (or zero relative motion) between the upper surface of the articulated transport platform 250 (i.e., the transport belt 150) and the person 10 during part or all of the movement. In this manner, the articulated transport platform 250 can be extended outward and beneath the person 10, as shown in Figures 37B-D, without having to lift or roll the person 10 onto the articulated transport platform 250.

[0096] Optionally, the underside of a guard layer (e.g., guard layer 155, described below, not shown in Figures 37A-H) may contact the surface of the litter 20 supporting the human body 10 before and during transfer. It will also be understood, although not shown, that the support surface 20 may be displaced and / or compressed by the articulated transport platform 250, e.g., to reduce forces on the human body 10, particularly as the articulated transport platform 250 is extended outward and under the human body 10 as shown in Figures 37B-D.

[0097] In some embodiments, while the articulated transport platform 250 is extended outward from the transport apparatus 100 (i.e., FIGS. 37B-D), there is relative motion between the transport belt 150 and the surface of the litter 20 to allow limited relative motion between the upper surface of the articulated transport platform 250 (i.e., the transport belt 150) and the human body 10. For example, while the articulated transport platform 250 is extended outward from the transport apparatus 100, the transport belt 150 pushes outward against the surface of the litter 20. To reduce or mitigate friction between the transport belt 150 and the surface of the litter 20, the surface of the litter 20 may include a low-friction bed sheet that allows movement of the transport belt 150. Alternatively, to reduce friction due to the relative motion, the transport belt 150 may be made of a low-friction material designed to perform such patient transfer operations. Some examples of the aforementioned low-friction belt material may be nylon or polyester fabric coated with silicone or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0098] Preferably, the drive rollers (e.g., drive rollers 160a and 160b, as described below, not shown in FIGS. 37A-H) may be controlled to take up slack in the transport belt 150 during extension and / or retraction of the transport platform 250. For example, the tension of the transport belt 150 may be controlled throughout the movement process by monitoring one or more of the following exemplary sensors: current from a motor driver, compression distance of a tensioner (e.g., tensioner 900, as described below, not shown in FIGS. 37A-H), strain sensors (not shown) embedded in the transport belt 150, and / or other suitable sensors.

[0099] 37D and 37E, the drive rollers are then actuated to transport the body 10 along the upper surface of the segment of the articulated transport platform 250. For example, this may be achieved by "winding up" one drive roller while simultaneously "unwinding" the other drive roller, thereby advancing the upper surface of the transport belt 150 towards the opposite side of the transport apparatus 100 in an actively controlled manner.

[0100] If the articulated transport platform 250 is not retracted toward the transport device 100 while the human body 10 is being moved from the litter 20 toward the transport device 100 (FIGS. 37D-37E), the transport belt 150 continues to push outward on the surface of the litter 20. Again, to reduce or mitigate friction between the transport belt 150 and the surface of the litter 20, the surface of the litter 20 may include a low-friction bed sheet that allows the transport belt 150 to move. Again, the transport belt 150 may alternatively be made of a low-friction fabric. Although not shown, in another embodiment, the articulated transport platform 250 is retracted toward the transport device 100 simultaneously with the human body 10 being moved from the litter 20 toward the transport device 100.

[0101] 37F, the human body 10 may then be moved to the bed 30. For example, the transport device 100 may be controlled to control the transport belt 150 to maintain the human body 10 on the transport device 100, while also controlling the articulated transport platform 250 to shift laterally to a position above the bed 30, and then the transport belt 150 may be controlled to advance the patient toward the bed 30. Alternatively, the transport device 100 may be controlled to simultaneously control the transport belt 150 to maintain the human body 10 over the end of the transport platform in the traveling direction until the human body 10 and the articulated transport platform 250 are superimposed on the bed 30, while also controlling the articulated transport platform 250 to shift laterally to a position where it will overlap the bed 30.

[0102] 37G, a subsequent platform lateral actuator (e.g., platform drive pinion 382) may be used to retract the articulated transport platform 250 from beneath the patient 10. As shown, the articulated transport platform 250 is moved laterally while the leading platform segment and the engaged intermediate platform segment remain engaged with one another until clear of the patient, and then the articulated transport platform 250 may be "folded" as it is retracted into a stowed position within the device body 110. Alternatively, the articulated transport platform 250 may be "folded" for storage as it is retracted from beneath the patient 10.

[0103] It will be appreciated that during use, at least a portion, preferably a majority, and more preferably substantially all of the articulated transport platform 250 is vertically supported by the surface onto which an object is moved or on which an object to be moved is placed using the articulated transport platform 250. In the illustrated example, the articulated transport platform 250 receives vertical support from the litter 20 (FIGS. 37B-37F) and from the bed 30 (FIG. 37F).

[0104] To transfer the patient 10 from the bed 30 to the gurney 20, the process shown in Figures 37A-37H may be performed in reverse.

[0105] In the illustrated example, the articulated transport platform 250 can extend outward in two directions. In other embodiments, the segments 210, 220, and 230a-h can include only one tip platform segment and extend outward in only one direction. In such embodiments, after moving the body 10 onto the transport apparatus 100, the transport apparatus 100 can be subsequently repositioned (e.g., rotated 180 degrees) before moving the body 10 onto the bed 30.

[0106] As noted above, friction may exist between the conveyor belt 150 and the surface of the litter 20. While a low-friction bed sheet can reduce or mitigate such friction, other embodiments are possible in which contact between the conveyor belt 150 and the surface of the litter 20 can be reduced or completely avoided, thereby substantially avoiding such friction. For example, in another embodiment, the transport apparatus 100 includes a second conveyor belt (not shown) that extends below the bottom surface of the articulated transport platform 250 when the articulated transport platform 250 is extended outward, such that the second conveyor belt provides limited or zero relative motion between the bottom surface of the articulated transport platform 250 and the surface of the litter 20. Such an embodiment is briefly described below with reference to FIGS. 74A-E.

[0107] 74A-E, another transport device 200 for moving a human body 10 from a litter 20 to a bed 30 is shown. The transport device 200 of FIGS. 74A-E is similar to the transport device 100 of FIGS. 37A-H, but includes a second transport belt 170A in addition to the first transport belt 150. When the articulated transport platform 250 is extended outward toward and underneath the human body 10 (FIGS. 74B-D), the second transport belt 170A provides limited or zero relative motion between the bottom surface of the articulated transport platform 250 and the surface of the litter 20. Similarly, when the human body 10 moves toward and onto the transport device 100 (FIG. 74E), the second transport belt 170A provides limited or zero relative motion between the bottom surface of the articulated transport platform 250 and the surface of the litter 20.

[0108] 74A-E thus illustrate the operation of the transport apparatus 200 with the lower guard belt 170A routinely deployed such that platform expansion also pulls the lower guard material from within the platform's center to form a lower shear-free surface with the upper surface. The first transport belt 150 interacts with the patient at rest, while the lower guard belt 170A (or pair of lower guard belts 170A-B) interacts with the patient's support surface. Each belt is operatively terminated so that as the transport platform is extended, the belt pulls only from the platform's central cavity, thereby deploying beneath the patient and creating zero shear or zero relative velocity with respect to the support surface or patient at rest. One or both of the transport belt 150 and lower guard belt 170A may be constructed from a low-friction material to reduce forces on the object being moved and the relative friction between the transport belt 150 and lower guard belt 170A, in addition to reducing reaction forces on the transport apparatus 100 due to friction generated during the act of movement.

[0109] Although the devices and methods disclosed herein are described particularly in relation to and for use in moving human bodies (e.g., individuals with reduced, limited, or no mobility, able-bodied individuals, unconscious individuals, incapacitated individuals, etc.), it will be understood that the devices and methods may alternatively be used to move other objects that are large, cumbersome, delicate, and / or difficult to grasp and move. For example, the devices and methods disclosed herein may be suitable and / or adapted for use in moving livestock or farm animals, non-domesticated animals (e.g., in zoos or wildlife sanctuaries), human corpses (e.g., in funeral home mortuaries), inanimate objects (e.g., for courier, cargo, and / or logistics activities), and the like.

[0110] (Details of the Example) Details of an embodiment of the transport apparatus 100 are provided in this section with reference to the drawings. As noted above, it should be understood at the outset that the transport apparatus 100 is shown with very specific features for illustrative purposes only. Other embodiments are possible and within the scope of this disclosure.

[0111] 6, the transport apparatus 100 includes a first end drive assembly 300a and a second end drive assembly 300b. The end drive assemblies are connected to one another by lateral support members such that the end drive assemblies are at opposite ends of the transport apparatus 100.

[0112] 10, details of second end drive assembly 300b can be seen. In some embodiments, transport belt 150 has a fixed length, with a first end of transport belt 150 secured to first drive roller 160a and a second end of transport belt 150 secured to second drive roller 160b. Thus, transport belt 150 is characterized as a discontinuous belt 150.

[0113] Utilizing a discontinuous conveyor belt 150 may have one or more advantages. For example, it may facilitate removal and / or replacement of the conveyor belt 150 (e.g., by removing the drive rollers with the conveyor belt attached). This may result in relatively easy cleaning and / or maintenance of the conveyor apparatus 100, resulting in less downtime. This may be particularly important in applications where cross-contamination is a concern (e.g., hospitals, nursing homes, etc.).

[0114] Additionally or alternatively, using a discontinuous belt with drive rollers on both ends can have a mechanical advantage in that the tension in the transport belt can be controlled from both ends of the belt. For example, this can help provide a desired level of tension and / or a desired level of "slack" (or lack thereof) in the transport belt 150.

[0115] 10, the transport belt 150 extends from the first drive roller 160a and passes around a tensioner 165a. From there, the transport belt 150 extends around roller 440a, around the leading edge 213 of the first leading platform segment 210, along the top surface 216 of the first leading platform segment 210, the top surface 236 of one or more intermediate platform segments 230, the top surface 226 of the second leading platform segment 220, and around the leading edge 224 of the second leading platform segment 220. The transport belt 150 then passes around roller 440d and around tensioner 165b, terminating at the second drive roller 160b.

[0116] In the illustrated example, the conveyor belt 150 is guided around two passive (i.e., non-driven) rollers 165a and 165b to maintain tension and avoid potentially interfering interactions with other components located within the housing (e.g., control systems, motors and motor drivers, gears, and the like). It will be appreciated that alternative embodiments may include fewer, more, or no tensioners 165.

[0117] An example of a belt tensioner assembly will now be described with reference to FIGS. 12-15C. As shown in FIG. 12, belt tensioner assembly 900 may be disposed between the structural plates of end drive assemblies 300a-b (described further below). With reference to FIG. 13, belt tensioner assembly 900 includes a first frame member 910 fixed in a fixed relationship to a second frame member 920 by axes 940a and 940b. A movable frame member 930 is movable along axes 940a and 940b. As shown in FIG. 14, a linear displacement sensor 990 is mounted to provide an output signal based on the relative position of movable frame member 930.

[0118] 15A-15C, in the illustrated example, movable frame member 930 is biased toward second frame member 920. In the illustrated example, this bias is applied by first spring 951 and second spring 952 arranged in series, where the first and second springs have different stiffnesses or spring constants. As a result, during a first range of movement of movable frame member 930 (e.g., between the positions shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B), only the spring with the relatively lower spring constant (e.g., spring 951 in this example) deforms, but during a second range of movement of movable frame member 930 (e.g., between the positions shown in FIGS. 15B and 15C), both springs deform, including the spring with the relatively higher spring constant (e.g., spring 952 in this example).

[0119] An advantage of this design is that it may enable the linear displacement sensor 990 to provide a high resolution signal at both relatively low conveyor belt tensions (e.g., when the object is not in contact with the conveyor belt 150 and / or the articulated conveyor platform 250) and relatively high conveyor belt tensions (e.g., when the patient is being moved on the articulated conveyor platform 250).

[0120] In the illustrated example, each tensioner 165a and 165b is passively spring-loaded. Alternatively, each tensioner 165a and 165b may be actively actuated, for example, by including a linear actuator instead of or in addition to one or more passive springs. Additionally or alternatively, each tensioner 165a and 165b may be actively damped, for example, using a ferro-damping fluid or the like. In some embodiments, the relative position of each tensioner 165a and 165b may be measured with a position sensor (not shown), such as, for example, a time-of-flight (TOF) or linear potentiometer. This determined tensioner position may be used, for example, by a transport device controller, to measure and / or estimate tension within the transport belt 150.

[0121] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, each drive roller 160a, 160b is driven using a corresponding motor 310. It will be appreciated that any suitable motor type (e.g., stepper motor, DC or AC motor, brushless DC (BLDC) motor, pneumatic rotary motor, direct drive electric motor, and the like) may be used in one or more variant embodiments. Additionally or alternatively, other gearing (e.g., two or more stages, planetary gearing) may be used. It will be appreciated that in operation, the corresponding motors or actuators may be driven independently or synchronously to fulfill the required functionality.

[0122] As described above, the transport belt 150 passes around the leading edge 213 of the first tip platform segment 210 and around the leading edge 224 of the second tip platform segment 220. Optionally, some or all of the leading edges 213 and 224 may include one or more friction-reducing features. Referring to FIG. 7 , in the illustrated example, a number of rollers 255 are positioned along the leading edge 224 of the second tip platform segment 220. Alternatively, or in addition, some or all surfaces adjacent the leading edges 213 and 224 may be made from a low-friction material (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyamide, graphite, acetol, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW PE)) and / or may be coated with a low-friction coating. Alternatively, or in addition, friction can be reduced by the controlled application of compressed air, one or more lubricants, captive ball bearings, or other suitable mechanisms.

[0123] 10, flexible guard layers 155a and 155b are provided under the conveyor belt 150 to reduce or prevent direct contact between the conveyor belt 150 and a surface from which or to which an object is moved using the articulated conveyor platform 250. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the first guard layer 155a may be formed from a woven and / or flexible material, with a first end 156a secured to the ends 221 and 222 of the second tip platform segment 220 and a second end 157a secured to a take-up roller 158a, which may be spring-loaded and / or actively driven to take up the first guard layer 155a as the articulated conveyor platform 250b advances toward the stowed position. In the illustrated example, the first guard layer 155a passes over a guide member 159a secured to the end drive assembly 300a so that the guard layer 155a remains adjacent to the underside of the articulated transport platform 250a when the articulated transport platform 250a is in the extended position. The second guard layer 155b has a first end 156b secured to the ends 211 and 212 of the first tip platform segment 210 and a second end 157b secured to a take-up roller 158b, which may be substantially similar to the take-up roller 158a. Optionally, the flexible guard layers 155a and 155b may be formed from a low-friction material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyamide, graphite, acetol, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW PE), and the like.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 75, a schematic diagram of the transport belt path of the transport apparatus of FIGS. 74A-E is shown. End drive assembly 300c has a belt path for first transport belt 150 similar to that shown in FIG. 10. Much like FIG. 10, transport belt 150 extends from first roller 160a, around idlers 165a and 166a, around the top surface of the transport platform, around idlers 165b and 166b, and onto second roller 160b. Note, however, that first transport belt 150 does not pass between axes 440a and 440b and platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h. Also note the presence of second and third transport belts 170A and 170B. Second transport belt 170A extends from roller 158b, and third transport belt 170B extends from roller 158a. In some embodiments, the second and third conveyor belts 170B, 170C are both passive (e.g., spring loaded using multi-turn torsion springs) and are not connected to any actuators or device controllers. In other embodiments, the second and third conveyor belts 170B, 170C are coupled to actuators that are operably coupled to a transport device controller.

[0125] 11 illustrates an embodiment of a first end drive assembly 300a. As described above, end drive assemblies 300a and 300b are provided at ends 101 and 102 of transport apparatus 100. End drive assemblies 300a and 300b are substantially mirror images of each other and preferably operate in concert with each other to substantially simultaneously control opposing ends of articulated transport platform 250, transport belt 150, optional guard layer(s) 155a and 155b, etc.

[0126] In the illustrated example, end drive assembly 300a, first and second belt drive sprockets 320a and 320d are driven by motors 390a and 390d, respectively. Belt drive sprockets 320a and 320d are connected to transport belt roller sprockets 360a and 360b by drive belts 361a and 361b, respectively. Rotation of transport belt roller sprockets 360a and 360b results in rotation of transport belt rollers 165a and 165b, respectively. In the illustrated example, tension idlers 322a and 322b are provided to control the tension of drive belts 361a and 361b, respectively. It will be understood that tension idlers 322a and 322b are optional.

[0127] Also shown are platform drive sprockets 320b and 320c, driven by motors 390b and 390c, respectively. Platform drive sprocket 320b is connected to a first series of segment drive sprockets 380a and 380b via drive belt 371a. Platform drive sprocket 320c is connected to a second series of segment drive sprockets 380c and 380d via drive belt 371b. Idlers 323a and 323b are provided to control the tension of drive belt 371a, and idlers 323c and 323d are provided to control the tension of drive belt 371b.

[0128] Figure 17 shows the inside of end drive assembly 300a. In the example shown, platform drive pinions 382a, 382b, 382c, and 382d are provided at the top ends of the platforms. These drive pinions 382a, 382b, 382c, and 382d are connected to segment drive sprockets 380a, 380b, 380c, and 380d, respectively (see, e.g., Figure 11).

[0129] In the illustrated example, the teeth of platform drive pinions 382a, 382b, 382c, and 382d engage platform rack segments (not shown) provided on the undersides of ends 211, 212, 221, and 222 of leading platform segments 210 and 220 and on the undersides of ends 231 and 232 of intermediate platform segments 230a-h. It will be appreciated that in one or more alternative embodiments, the engagement between end drive assembly 300a and platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h need not include a rack and pinion arrangement. For example, the platform drive rollers may comprise a compressible elastomer configured to provide a sufficiently high coefficient of friction between themselves and the undersides of the ends of platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h.

[0130] 18 and 19 show an example of a motor hub assembly 380. In the example shown, a motor base plate 315 supports motors 390a-e. Two of the motors, 390a and 390e, are connected to belt drive sprockets 320a and 320d via one or more linear drive shafts, and two of the motors, 390b and 390d, are connected in a similar manner to platform drive sprockets 320b and 320c. Tension idlers 322a and 322b are also shown attached to motor base plate 315.

[0131] The ability to make the motor hub assembly 380 modular may have one or more advantages. For example, allowing the entire motor and drive wheel set to be "swappable" may facilitate easier maintenance and / or servicing of the transport apparatus 100, which may result in less downtime for the transport apparatus 100.

[0132] 20 and 21 show an example of an intermediate platform segment support assembly 400. As described further below, the intermediate platform segment support assembly 400 is configured to selectively raise and lower intermediate platform segments 230b-h to align engagement features of adjacent intermediate platform segments 230b-h with one another.

[0133] In the illustrated example, the mid-platform segment support assembly 400 includes an upper frame member 410 and a lower frame member 420. The frame members 410 and 420 are fixedly connected to one another via axes 440a and 440b. The moving frame member 430 may move vertically along axes 440a and 440b between a lowered position adjacent to the lower frame member 420 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 20, 21, and 34) and a raised position adjacent to the upper frame member (e.g., as shown in FIG. 36). In the illustrated example, optional sleeve-type bearings 445 facilitate movement of the moving frame member 430 along axes 440a and 440b.

[0134] In the illustrated example, a reduction worm gear assembly 450 is provided to drive the central shaft 442. Such an arrangement may allow for precise control of the velocity and / or position of the moving frame member 430. Another advantage of this design is that misalignment or drift of the moving frame member 430 may be reduced or eliminated when not being driven.

[0135] 11, in the example shown, actuator sprocket 452 is connected to drive sprocket 321 by drive belt 381. Rotation of drive sprocket 321 results in vertical movement of moving frame member 430, which in turn results in vertical movement of any of intermediate platform segments 230b-h supported by moving frame member 430. In the example shown, drive sprocket 321 is directly driven by motor 390e.

[0136] In the illustrated example, a tension idler 322c is also provided to control the tension in the drive belt 381. It will be understood that the tension idler 322c is optional.

[0137] In the illustrated example, operation of the intermediate platform segment support assembly 400 is mechanically independent from the lateral operation of the transport platform 250. For example, drive sprocket 321 and motor 390e are not mechanically integrated with belt drive sprockets 320a and 320d, platform drive sprockets 320b and 320c, or motors 390a-d. In one or more alternative embodiments, mechanical linkages, gearing, or the like may be provided to mechanically synchronize operation of the platform segment support assembly 400 with the articulated transport platform drive mechanism and / or the transport belt drive mechanism.

[0138] 1-36, the articulated transport platform 250 is provided as a series of platform segments 210, 220 and 230a-h whose edges can be locked and / or unlocked from one another "in situ" to extend or retract the articulated transport platform 250 to one side or the other of the transport apparatus 100. The selective connection / disconnection (which can be characterized as engagement / disengagement) of adjacent platform segments 210, 220 and 230a-h is described with reference to FIGS.

[0139] FIG. 22 illustrates platform segment 210 adjacent end drive assembly 300b. , 220, and 230a. In the illustrated example, the first and second tip platforms The arm segments 210 and 220 are adjacent to the sides 113 and 114 of the device body 110. In the stowed position. Located between them is the first intermediate platform segment 2 It is 30a.

[0140] 23, the first tip platform segment 210 has a series of protrusions 261 extending inward from the trailing edge 214. These protrusions 261 are configured to engage recesses 273a on the intermediate platform segment 230a. The second tip platform segment 220 has a series of recesses 272 extending inward from the trailing edge 223. These recesses 272 are configured to engage the protrusions 263a on the intermediate platform segment 230a.

[0141] Each intermediate platform segment 230a-h also includes a locking mechanism, generally referenced as 500, at each end 231 and 232. In the illustrated example, the locking mechanism 500 includes a slidable pin assembly 510 that is axially movable along the intermediate platform segment 230a. A locking pin 512 extends through a corresponding transverse opening in the protrusion 261 of the first tip platform segment 210. By engaging and disengaging the locking pin 512 with the protrusion 261, the intermediate platform segment 230a can be selectively connected and disconnected from the first tip platform segment 210.

[0142] In the illustrated example, the locking mechanism 500 is spring biased toward the locked position via a compression spring 515 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 23). Also shown is an optional counterforce assembly 520 for cushioning the movement of the pin assembly 510.

[0143] Preferably, the platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h are secured to one another in a manner that allows for a degree of flexing between adjacent platform segments. This may facilitate articulation of the transport platform 250 during use. This degree of flexing of the articulated transport platform 250 may have one or more advantages, such as allowing the articulated transport platform 250 to conform to the surface of an object (e.g., a patient) having a curved underside and / or the surface on which the object may rest (e.g., a soft mattress).

[0144] In the illustrated example, protrusion 261 is attached to elastic plate 281. An edge of elastic plate 281 is secured to first distal platform segment 210, providing a cantilevered connection between adjacent connected platform segments. Similarly, protrusion 263a is attached to elastic plate 283. An edge of elastic plate 283 is secured to intermediate platform segment 230a.

[0145] Preferably, the dimensions, thickness, and / or material of resilient plates 281 and 283 are selected to provide a desired degree of biasing force that urges adjacent platform segments into an aligned (or neutral) position in which the adjacent segments are generally planar. It will be appreciated that one or more of resilient plates 281 and 283 may be configured to provide different degrees of biasing force.

[0146] In one or more alternative embodiments (not shown), the articulated transport platform 250 may be configured to provide selective tensioning between adjacent platform segments.

[0147] 24, in this example, the slidable pin assembly 510 is shown in a disengaged or unlocked position, where the locking pin 512 is disengaged from the opening in the projection 261. In FIG. 25, the slidable pin assembly 510 is shown in an engaged or locked position, where the spring 515 has pushed the locking pin 512 into the opening in the projection 261.

[0148] Returning to FIG. 23, optional drag assembly 520 may cushion (e.g., smooth) the movement of slidable pin assembly 510 as it moves from the retracted position to the engaged position and back.

[0149] In the illustrated example, the locking pin 512 may be disengaged from the protrusion of an adjacent transport platform via an actuator connected to the end drive assemblies 300a-b. For example, the actuator may be selectively actuated to push the plunger 525 inward toward the intermediate platform segment 230a, moving the slidable pin assembly 510 and causing the locking pin 512 to disengage from the opening in the push-out protrusion 261, thereby decoupling the platform segments 210, 220, and 230a-h from one another. To secure the adjacent segments, a release button 530 may be pressed to disengage the slidable pin assembly 510 from a latch mechanism (not shown), allowing the spring 515 to engage the locking pin 512 with the opening in the push-out protrusion 261.

[0150] In the illustrated example, the slidable pin assembly 510 includes four locking pins 512. However, it will be appreciated that more or fewer pins may be included and that they may be provided in any suitable configuration. Also, while the locking pins 512 are cylindrical, it will be appreciated that the locking pins 512 may have one or more other shapes (e.g., a single pin having a square cross-sectional shape, or multiple pins having the same or different cross-sectional shapes from one another). For example, this may be useful to achieve different mechanical performance for the articulated transport platform 250.

[0151] 26-31 show an example of an engagement actuator 560 that may be used to urge plunger 525 inward toward intermediate platform segment 230a. With reference to FIG. 28, engagement actuator 560 includes a rotary motor 561, a reciprocating link 562 that converts rotary motion of rotary motor 561 into linear motion of arm 563, and an engagement end 565 connected to arm 563 via link 564. With reference to FIGS. 30 and 31, by selectively holding rotary motor 561, engagement end 565 can be reciprocated between a first position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 30) and a second position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 31).

[0152] FIG. 29 shows an offset engagement actuator 560 ′ having a rotary motor 561 offset from a reciprocating link 562 connected via a gear and belt drive mechanism 566 .

[0153] 26 and 27, in the illustrated example, engagement actuator 560 and offset engagement actuator 560' are fixed to the top ends of end drive assemblies 300a-b. Referring to Figure 27, engagement end 565 is aligned so as to engage and urge plunger 525 inwardly toward intermediate platform segment 230a.

[0154] As can be seen in FIG. 26, the offset location of the engagement actuator 560' allows the engagement actuator 560' to be centrally mounted relative to the end drive assemblies 300a-b while providing clearance for the intermediate platform segment support assembly 400.

[0155] FIG. 32 shows an example of a release actuator 550 that can be selectively actuated to push a rod 555 downward to depress a release button 530, thereby allowing the slidable pin assembly 510 to engage an adjacent transport platform.

[0156] In the illustrated example, the slidable pin assembly 510 is biased toward a locked position. It will be appreciated that the slidable pin assembly 510 may alternatively be biased toward an unlocked position.

[0157] With reference to Figures 34-36, a schematic example of the "construction" of the transport platform 250 will now be described.

[0158] As shown in FIG. 34, in the stowed position, the leading platform segments 210 and 220 and the leading intermediate platform segment 230 a are generally aligned with one another to provide a support platform for the transport apparatus 100 .

[0159] 35, the first tip platform segment 210 and the subsequent intermediate platform segments 230a-d are driven outward by the rotating pinions 382 of the end drive assembly 300 to extend the transport platform 250. When the second edge of a given "nth" intermediate platform segment (e.g., segment 230b) moves outward to a position where it overlaps with the first edge of the next "n+1" intermediate platform segment (e.g., segment 230c), the moving frame member 430 is raised to lift the "n+1" intermediate platform segment (e.g., segment 230c), thereby aligning the edges of the "nth" and "n+1" adjacent intermediate segments (e.g., segments 230b and 230c), at which point the actuator 550 may be used to connect the "n" and "n+1" adjacent intermediate segments to one another. This process may be repeated until all of the intermediate platform segments 230a-h are secured together and the transport platform 250 is fully extended outward, for example as shown in FIG.

[0160] To store the transport platform 250, the transport apparatus 100 may be operated in substantially the same manner, but in reverse. For example, the "n+1" intermediate platform segment (e.g., segment 230d) may be disengaged from the adjacent "n" intermediate platform segment (e.g., segment 230c) by, for example, pressing release button 530 using release actuator 550, and then lowered into volume V of the apparatus body 110, for example, via moving frame member 430. Once the disengaged "n+1" platform segment (e.g., segment 230d) has moved vertically below the platform segment to which it was previously attached, pinion 382 may be driven to store the transport platform 250 toward the apparatus body 110 until the "n" intermediate platform segment (e.g., segment 230c) is in a central position where it can be disengaged from the adjacent platform segment. This process may be repeated until the transport platform 250 is fully stored.

[0161] In addition to "building" the transport platform 250 from only one side of the device body 110, the transport platform may extend (at least partially) from both sides of the device body 110. For example, the first tip platform segment 210 and one or more intermediate platform segments 230a-h may be driven outward, the second edges of the intermediate segments 230a-h may be connected, and then the second tip platform segment 220 and one or more intermediate platform segments 230a-h may be driven outward, and another intermediate segment 230a-h may be lifted and connected.

[0162] 1-36, the articulated transport platform 250 is supported by the device body 110 when in the stowed position, and cantilevers from the device body 110 when extended (partially or fully). For example, with reference to FIG. 10, the first and second tip platform segments 210 and 220 are supported by rollers 440a-d when in the stowed position, and the middle platform segments 230a-h are supported by rollers 440e and 440f (extending between moveable frame members 430a and 430b).

[0163] 38-41 show an embodiment of transport apparatus 100 including platform extension supports 570a-b that can be used to increase the width of the supported (i.e., non-cantilevered) surface. Such a design can have one or more advantages. For example, it can improve the comfort and / or safety of a patient when using transport apparatus 100 to move a patient placed on a platform from one room to another.

[0164] 38 and 40, a first platform extension support 570a extends outward from the first side 113 of the apparatus body 110, and a second platform extension support 570b extends outward from the second side 114 of the apparatus body 110. In the illustrated example, each platform extension support 570a-b is supported by one or more support arms 575. The support arms 575 are connected to the apparatus body 110 below the respective platform extension support 570 and provide vertical support for the platform extension support 570 and the articulated transport platform 250 placed thereon.

[0165] 39 and 41, in the illustrated example, each platform extension support 570a-b is pivotally connected to the apparatus body 110 (e.g., using a hinge or other suitable connection), and each support arm 575 is pivotally connected to the apparatus body 110 and removably securable to the platform extension support 570a-b. An advantage of this design is that the platform extension supports 570a-b can be folded inward when not needed, providing a smaller storage footprint for the transport apparatus 100, as shown in, for example, FIGS.

[0166] In the illustrated example, the platform extension supports 570a-b are generally rectangular planar support surfaces. It will be appreciated that in one or more alternative embodiments, the platform extension supports may have different shapes and / or different surface features. For example, one or more rollers may be provided on the top surface of the platform extension supports.

[0167] Also, in the illustrated example, platform extension supports 570a-b may be manually moved between the positions shown in Figures 38 and 40 and the positions shown in Figures 39 and 41. In one or more alternative embodiments, one or more platform extension support actuators (either "passive" actuators such as gas springs, hydraulic drag cylinders, and the like, or "active" actuators such as linear, pneumatic, or hydraulic actuators) may be provided to automatically extend and / or retract the platform extension supports, for example, via a control system of transport apparatus 100.

[0168] 1-41, the articulated transport platform 250 is "constructed" with intermediate platform segments 230 that are selectively locked and released from engagement with the leading edge platform segments 210 and 220, and with each other. In one or more alternative embodiments, the articulated transport platform may include a series of platform segments that are permanently coupled to one another.

[0169] 42-69 show examples of transport apparatus 100 having one or more articulated transport platforms, including a series of transport platform segments that remain connected to one another during extension and retraction of the articulated transport platform.

[0170] Figure 42 shows an example of an apparatus body 110 having two articulated transport platforms, each in a retracted position. In Figure 43, a first articulated transport platform 250a is extended outward from a first side 113 of the apparatus body 110 to an extended position. A second articulated transport platform 250b is in a retracted position. In Figure 44, the first transport platform 250a is in a retracted position and the second transport platform 250b is extended outward from a second side 114 of the apparatus body 110 to an extended position.

[0171] Each transport platform 250 includes a series of platform segments 290. Each platform segment 290 has a first end 291, a second end 292, and a segment link 810 at each end. As described further below, the segment links of adjacent platform segments are pivotally coupled to one another and can be selectively constrained or “locked” in an aligned position (e.g., a position where the platform segments are generally coplanar) to form a relatively rigid articulated transport platform, and can also be selectively unconstrained or “unlocked” from the aligned position to allow the platform segments to stow in a relatively compact arrangement when the articulated transport platform is stowed.

[0172] FIG. 47 shows an exterior end view of the end drive assembly 600 of the transport platform of FIGS. 42-69. In the illustrated example, first and second belt drive sprockets 620a and 620d are driven by motors 390a and 390d, respectively. Belt drive sprockets 620a and 620d are connected to transport belt roller sprockets 660a and 660b by drive belts 661a and 661b, respectively. Rotation of transport belt roller sprockets 660a and 660b results in rotation of transport belt rollers 165a and 165b, respectively. In the illustrated example, tension idlers 622a and 622b are provided to control the tension of drive belts 661a and 661b, respectively. It will be understood that tension idler 622 is optional.

[0173] Also shown are platform drive sprockets 620b and 620c, driven by motors 390b and 390c, respectively. Platform drive sprocket 620b is connected to a first drive sprocket 680a via drive belt 671a. Platform drive sprocket 620c is connected to a second drive sprocket 680b via drive belt 671b. Idlers 623a and 623b are provided to control the tension of belts 671a and 671b, respectively.

[0174] Figure 48 shows an end view of the inside of end drive assemblies 300a-b taken along line 48-48 of Figure 46. In the example shown, platform drive pinions 682a and 682b are provided at the top ends of the platforms. In the example shown, the teeth of platform drive pinions 682a and 682b engage platform segment link 810.

[0175] 48 and 49, each articulated transport platform, when within the apparatus body 110, is guided along the internal track 710. Preferably, the segment links of adjacent platform segments are constrained or "locked" in an aligned position and are released or "unlocked" from the aligned position as the platform segments enter / exit the internal track. For example, the segment links may be constrained or unconstrained simultaneously with entering / exiting the track or shortly before entering / exiting the track.

[0176] As shown in FIG. 48, the transport belt 150 moves from the first roller 160a, along the periphery of idlers 165a and 166a, along the periphery of the leading edge of the first transport platform, across the top surface of the first transport platform, across the top surface 138 of the central support member 137, across the top surface of the second transport platform, along the periphery of the leading edge of the second transport platform, along the periphery of idlers 165b and 166b, and then extends to the second roller 160b.

[0177] 50 and 51, the first articulated transport platform 250a can extend outward from the first side 113 of the apparatus body 110. During this extension, the first roller 160a and / or the second roller 160b can rotate to provide a desired degree of tension to the transport belt 150.

[0178] 52 and 53, the second conveyor belt 250b extends outward from the second side 114 of the apparatus body 110. Again, the first roller 160a and / or the second roller 160b may rotate to provide a desired degree of tension to the conveyor belt 150.

[0179] 62A-C, 63A-C, and 65, in the illustrated example, each segment link 810 includes a fixed shaft member 820 that extends and protrudes outward to engage an opening 880 in an adjacent segment link, providing a pivotable connection between the segment links. In some embodiments, only a single shaft member 820 may extend through the segment link 810.

[0180] In the illustrated embodiment, an optional bushing or bearing 825 is provided at the end of the outer stationary shaft member 820. The bushing / bearing 825 can help guide the platform segment 290 along the internal track 710.

[0181] Each segment link 810 also includes a movable shaft member 830 that is selectively outwardly expandable to engage an opening 870 in an adjacent segment link, thereby restraining the segments in an aligned position (e.g., a position in which the platform segments are generally coplanar).

[0182] To move the movable shaft member 830 between the engaged and disengaged positions, the illustrated example includes a pair of end link members 862 and 864 and a center link member 866 (see, for example, FIG. 65). The center link member 866 has a fixed pivot center 865 that allows the link member 866 to pivot relative to the segment link 810. The center link member 866 is also pivotally connected to the end link members 862 and 864. The center link member 866 also includes a downwardly facing engagement protrusion 868.

[0183] 62A and 62B, the movable shaft member 830 is in the retracted position when the central link member 866 is in a first position and the engagement protrusion 868 is at the first end 841 of the curved slot 840. In Figures 63A and 63B, the central link member is in a second position and the engagement protrusion 868 is at the second end 842 of the curved slot 840. In this position, the movable shaft member 830 is in the extended position.

[0184] The illustrated example also shows an optional biasing member 845, in this case an arc-shaped piece of resilient material, such as a steel spring, that biases the engagement protrusion 868 toward the first end 841 or the second end 842 of the arc-shaped slot 840.

[0185] Referring to Figures 58-61, in the illustrated example, an engagement plate 780 is provided to engage or "lock" adjacent segment links in an aligned position (e.g., a position in which the platform segments are generally coplanar) when the articulated transport platform is extended, and to release or "unlock" adjacent segment links (i.e., to allow the platform segments to pivot relative to one another) when the articulated transport platform is retracted.

[0186] 59, 66, and 68, the engagement plate 780 has slots 790 that extend at an angle relative to the path of the segment links as the platform segments are extended and retracted from the transport apparatus. As the segment links move outward, for example, as the articulated transport platform is extended, the engagement protrusions 868 enter the first ends 791 of the slots 790. As the segments continue to move outward and the engagement protrusions 868 continue to pass through the slots 790, the engagement protrusions 868 are urged laterally by the side walls of the slots 790 toward the second ends 842 of the arcuate slots 840, causing the shaft members 830 of that segment link to move from the retracted position to the extended position, engaging the shaft members 830 with the openings 870 of the preceding segment links 810.

[0187] As the segment links move inward, for example, as the articulated transport platform is retracted, the engagement protrusions 868 enter the second ends 792 of the slots 790. As the segments continue to move inward, the engagement protrusions 868 are urged laterally toward the first ends 841 of the arcuate slots 840, causing the shaft members 830 of that segment link to move from the extended position to the retracted position, disengaging the shaft members 830 from the openings 870 of the subsequent segment link and allowing a greater degree of rotation between adjacent transport platform segments.

[0188] In the illustrated example, the engagement plate 780 and its slot 790 may be characterized as a “passive” actuation mechanism that automatically switches the position of the engagement protrusion 868 when the segment link 810 passes over the engagement plate 780. In one or more alternative embodiments, the movement of the engagement protrusion 868 may be “actively” actuated, for example, via a control system of the transport apparatus 100. For example, the slot 790 may be oriented parallel to the direction of movement of the segment link 810, and the engagement plate 780 may be moved perpendicular to the direction of movement to selectively switch the position of the engagement protrusion 868. Providing “active” actuation that allows for selective locking and unlocking of the segment link 810 may have one or more advantages. For example, it may facilitate maintenance and / or equipment testing and may enable other equipment operations, such as extending the transport platform, with one or more segment links in an unconstrained position.

[0189] 70-73 show another example of a transport apparatus 100 having an articulated transport platform that includes transport platform segments that remain connected to one another.

[0190] In this example, only one articulated transport platform is provided, which is guided by a continuous internal track 710 and can be extended to either side of the transport apparatus 100. As can be seen in FIG. 73, the extension distance D of the articulated transport platform 250 is extend is the width W of the device body 110 DFor example, the articulated transport platform 250 can extend to at least three times the width of the device body 110.

[0191] Optionally, the conveying apparatus 100 may include one or more conveying belt treatment systems for applying cleaning and / or sterilizing treatments to the conveying belt 150. For example, an ultraviolet (UV) emitter (not shown) may be disposed within the apparatus housing that can continuously or selectively emit UV light toward the top surface of the conveying belt 150, or toward both the top and bottom surfaces of the conveying belt 150, as the conveying belt 150 passes by it. Such a configuration may be characterized as a UV germicidal irradiation system.

[0192] Additionally or alternatively, a fluid reservoir (not shown) may be defined within the housing, and a fluid agitator (e.g., an ultrasonic agitator) may be provided to continuously or selectively agitate the fluid as the conveyor belt 150 passes through the fluid reservoir. Such an arrangement may be characterized as a fluid agitation system or an ultrasonic bath system.

[0193] Additionally or alternatively, a brush, sponge, microfiber, or other material (not shown) may be positioned within the housing and in contact with the surface of the conveyor belt 150 so that dust or debris may be removed from the upper surface of the conveyor belt 150 or from both the upper and lower surfaces of the conveyor belt 150 as the conveyor belt advances or retracts. Optionally, a container of cleaning and / or disinfecting agent (e.g., alcohol, peroxide, bleach, etc.) may be provided for dispensing the cleaning and / or disinfecting agent onto the brush, sponge, microfiber, or other material and / or directly onto the conveyor belt 150.

[0194] It will be appreciated that for embodiments including a fluid dispensing device, "fluid-tight" or at least additional ingress protection may be required for fluid-sensitive portions of the device (eg, electronic circuitry).

[0195] In some embodiments, a manual actuator (e.g., a push button) may be provided to selectively activate the transport belt processing system to provide one or more treatments (e.g., ultraviolet light, disinfectant, ultrasonic bath agitation) to the transport belt 150. For example, an ultraviolet light emitter may be configured to emit ultraviolet light for a preset time (e.g., 10 seconds, 30 minutes) in response to depression of the manual actuator, where the preset time may be selected based on, for example, the required decontamination level, the distance of the emitter from the belt 150, the intensity of the light emitted by the emitter, and / or other factors known to those skilled in the art. As another example, an agitator may be configured to agitate the fluid in the container for a preset time (e.g., 10 seconds, 30 minutes) in response to depression of the manual actuator, where the preset time may be selected based on, for example, the required decontamination level, the composition of the fluid in the container, and / or other factors known to those skilled in the art. Additionally or alternatively, the transport belt processing system may be configured to provide one or more treatments (e.g., ultraviolet light, disinfectant, ultrasonic agitation) at preset intervals (e.g., after every transfer operation, every 24 hours) and / or a preset time after a transfer operation is performed without requiring manual activation.

[0196] In some embodiments, a platform segment processing system is provided. Similar to the transport belt processing system, the platform segment processing system can include an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least an upper surface of one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments, a fluid dispenser configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least an upper surface of one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments, and / or a fluid agitator configured to agitate fluid in a fluid container configured to be passed by one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments. In some embodiments, a transport device controller is operably coupled to the platform segment processing system, and the transport device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid dispenser, and the fluid agitator, simultaneously or separately from one another.

[0197] As used herein, the term "and / or" is intended to represent an inclusive or. That is, for example, "X and / or Y" is intended to mean X or Y or both. As a further example, "X, Y and / or Z" is intended to mean X or Y or Z or any combination thereof.

[0198] It should be noted that terms of degree, such as "substantially," "about," and "approximately," as used herein, refer to a reasonable amount of deviation from the modified term that does not materially change the end result. These terms of degree may be construed to include deviations from the modified term, such as by 1%, 2%, 5%, or 10%, when such deviation does not negate the meaning of the modified term.

[0199] Although the above description describes features of the embodiments, it will be understood that some features and / or functions of the described embodiments can be modified without departing from the spirit and principles of operation of the described embodiments. For example, various features described by the depicted embodiments or examples may be selectively combined with each other. Therefore, what has been described above is intended to illustrate, but not limit, the concepts of the claims. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that other variations and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims appended hereto. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments and examples, but should be accorded the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole. The present disclosure also includes the following inventions. The first aspect is a device body having a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side; a tip platform segment having a first end, a second end, a leading edge spanning the first end and the second end, a trailing edge spanning the first end and the second end, and a tip locking mechanism; an articulated transport platform comprising a plurality of intermediate platform segments including a leading intermediate platform segment and one or more trailing intermediate platform segments, each intermediate platform segment having a first end, a second end, a first edge extending between the first end and the second end, a second edge extending between the first end and the second end, and an intermediate locking mechanism; the leading edge locking mechanism is removably securable to the mid-locking mechanism of the leading mid-platform segment; the mid-locking mechanism of each subsequent intermediate platform segment is removably securable to the mid-locking mechanism of the preceding intermediate platform segment; in a stowed position, the one or more trailing intermediate platform segments are positioned below the leading intermediate platform segment; In the extended position, the tip platform segment is positioned laterally away from the device body, the tip locking mechanism is secured to the intermediate locking mechanism of the leading intermediate platform segment, and the intermediate locking mechanism of one of the trailing intermediate platform segments is secured to the intermediate locking mechanism of the leading intermediate platform segment. The second aspect is A transport device in a first aspect, wherein the tip locking mechanism is located adjacent to the first end of the tip platform segment, and for each intermediate platform segment, the intermediate locking mechanism is located adjacent to the first end of the intermediate platform segment. The third aspect is The transport apparatus according to the first or second aspect, further comprising a transport apparatus controller configured to control the articulated transport platform. The fourth aspect is A transport device in a third aspect further comprising a platform lateral actuator operably coupled to the transport device controller, the platform lateral actuator configured to selectively move the tip platform segment and the intermediate platform segment fixed thereto laterally relative to the device body. The fifth aspect is A transport device according to the third or fourth aspect, further comprising a platform segment support assembly operably coupled to the transport device controller, the platform segment support assembly configured to selectively lift the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments to align the intermediate locking mechanism of the lifted subsequent intermediate platform segment with the intermediate locking mechanism of the preceding intermediate platform segment. The sixth aspect is A transport device in a fifth aspect further comprising a platform segment release actuator operably coupled to the transport device controller, the platform segment release actuator configured to selectively release the locking mechanism of a subsequent platform segment. A seventh aspect is The transport device of any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein in the storage position, the tip platform segment is at least partially above the device body. The eighth aspect is The transport device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein, in the storage position, the leading edge platform segment is fixed to the leading intermediate platform segment. A ninth aspect is The transport apparatus according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein in the storage position, the trailing intermediate platform segment is stacked vertically below the leading intermediate platform segment. A tenth aspect is A transport device in any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein when the tip platform segment and the intermediate platform segment of the articulated transport platform are fixed to each other to form a fixed segment, the fixed segment can rotate relative to each other by approximately 1° to 30°, or approximately 10° to 20°, or approximately 15°. An eleventh aspect is A tenth aspect of the transport device is that when the tip platform segment and the intermediate platform segment of the articulated transport platform are fixed to each other to form the fixed segment, the fixed segment is biased toward a neutral arrangement in which adjacent segments are generally planar. A twelfth aspect is In an eleventh aspect of the transport device, when the tip platform segment and the intermediate platform segment of the articulated transport platform are fixed to each other to form the fixed segment, the magnitude of the bias toward the neutral arrangement is selectively adjustable. A thirteenth aspect is A conveying device according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, wherein the device body has a width between the first side and the second side of the device body, and in the extended position, the distance between the leading edge of the tip platform segment and the first side of the device body is greater than the width of the device body. A fourteenth aspect is A thirteenth aspect of the transport device, wherein the width of the device body is approximately 400 mm to 1000 mm, and in the extended position, the distance between the leading edge of the tip platform segment and the first side of the device body is approximately 600 mm to 1400 mm. A fifteenth aspect is In the transport device according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects, the leading end locking mechanism comprises one or more recesses. A sixteenth aspect is In the transport device according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects, the leading end locking mechanism includes one or more protrusions. A seventeenth aspect is In the conveyance device according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects, the intermediate lock mechanism includes one or more protrusions and one or more recesses. An eighteenth aspect is A transport device in the third aspect, or any one of the fourth to seventeenth aspects related to the third aspect, further comprising a transport belt having a first end fixed to a first drive roller and a second end fixed to a second drive roller, the transport belt extending from the first drive roller around the leading edge of the tip platform segment, over the upper surface of the articulated transport platform, and to the second drive roller, the first drive roller and the second drive roller being operably coupled to a transport device controller. A nineteenth aspect is A conveying device in an 18th aspect, wherein the conveying belt is a first conveying belt, and the conveying device further includes a second conveying belt extending below the bottom surface of the articulated conveying platform on a first side of the device body, and a third conveying belt extending below the bottom surface of the articulated conveying platform on a second side of the device body. The twentieth aspect is an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least an upper surface of the conveyor belt; a fluid dispenser configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least the upper surface of the conveyor belt; A conveying device according to the 18th or 19th aspect, further comprising a belt processing system having at least one of: a fluid agitator configured to agitate fluid in a fluid container through which the conveying belt is configured to pass; A twenty-first aspect is A conveying device in a 20th aspect, wherein the conveying device controller is operably coupled to the belt processing system, and the conveying device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid emitter, and the fluid agitator, simultaneously or separately from each other. A twenty-second aspect is an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least a top surface of the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments; a fluid dispenser configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least the upper surface of the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments; and a fluid agitator configured to agitate fluid in a fluid container through which the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments are configured to pass. A twenty-third aspect is A 22nd aspect of the transport device, wherein the transport device controller is operably coupled to the platform segment processing system, and the transport device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid emitter, and the fluid agitator, simultaneously or separately from each other. A twenty-fourth aspect is A conveying device according to any one of the first to twenty-third aspects, further comprising an apparatus support structure fixed to the apparatus body for supporting the apparatus body above a floor surface, the apparatus support structure being configurable to adjust the height and / or angle of the apparatus body from the floor surface. The 25th aspect is 24. The transport apparatus of claim 23, wherein the apparatus support structure comprises a plurality of wheels that facilitate movement of the transport apparatus across the floor surface. A twenty-sixth aspect is A twenty-fifth aspect of the transport device, wherein at least one of the plurality of wheels is driven by a motor so that the transport device can move itself on the floor surface. A twenty-seventh aspect is A transport device according to any one of the third to sixth aspects and the eighteenth to twenty-third aspects, wherein the transport device comprises a plurality of controllable subsystems, and the transport device controller comprises a plurality of controllers configured to control the articulated transport platform and all of the controllable subsystems. A twenty-eighth aspect is A transport device according to any one of the third to sixth aspects and the eighteenth to twenty-third aspects, wherein the transport device comprises a plurality of controllable subsystems, and the transport device controller comprises a single controller configured to control the articulated transport platform and all of the controllable subsystems. A twenty-ninth aspect is a device body having a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side; an articulated transport platform comprising a leading platform segment and a plurality of intermediate platform segments; each platform segment having a first end, a second end, and a segment link disposed at each of the first end and the second end, the tip platform segment having a leading edge; the segment links of adjacent platform segments are pivotally coupled to one another; the segment links of adjacent platform segments are configured to be selectively constrained in an aligned position; In a stowed position, the platform segments of the articulated transport platform engage internal tracks of the device body; as the articulated transport platform is extended from the stowed position, the leading platform segment extends laterally away from the main body of the device, and the segment links of trailing platform segments are constrained in the aligned position upon exiting the internal track; As the articulated transport platform is retracted, the segment links of subsequent platform segments are unconstrained from the aligned position as they enter the internal track. A thirtieth aspect is A transport apparatus according to a twenty-ninth aspect, further comprising a transport apparatus controller configured to control the articulated transport platform. A thirty-first aspect is the articulated transport platform is a first articulated transport platform, the leading platform segment is a first leading platform segment, the intermediate platform segment is a first intermediate platform segment, the internal track is a first internal track, and the transport apparatus is a second articulated transport platform comprising a second leading edge platform segment and a plurality of second intermediate platform segments; each second platform segment having a first end, a second end, and a segment link disposed at each of the first and second ends, the second tip platform segment having a leading edge; the segment links of adjacent second platform segments are pivotally coupled to one another; the segment links of adjacent second platform segments are configured to be selectively constrained in an aligned position; In a stowed position, the platform segment of the second articulated transport platform engages a second internal track of the device body; as the second articulated transport platform is extended from the stowed position, the second distal platform segment extends laterally away from the main body of the device, and the segment links of a trailing second platform segment are constrained in the aligned position upon exiting the second internal track; A transport device according to aspect 29 or aspect 30, wherein as the second articulated transport platform is stored, the segment link of the subsequent second platform segment is released from the aligned position as it enters the second internal track. A thirty-second aspect is a device body having a first side and a second side; an articulated transport platform comprising a first tip platform segment, a plurality of intermediate platform segments, and a second tip platform segment, each platform segment having a first end, a second end and a segment link disposed at each of the first and second ends, and each tip platform segment having a leading edge; the segment links of adjacent platform segments are pivotally coupled to one another and configured to be selectively constrained in an aligned position; In a stowed position, the platform segments of the articulated transport platform engage internal tracks of the device body; as the articulated transport platform is extended from a first side of the device body, the first distal platform segment extends laterally away from the device body, and the segment links of the subsequent intermediate platform segments are constrained in the aligned position upon exiting the internal track; as the articulated transport platform is extended from the second side of the device body, the second distal platform segment extends laterally away from the device body, and the segment links of the subsequent intermediate platform segments are constrained in the aligned position upon exiting the internal track; When the intermediate platform segments enter the internal track, the segment links are unconstrained from the aligned position. A thirty-third aspect is A transport apparatus according to a thirty-second aspect, further comprising a transport apparatus controller configured to control the articulated transport platform. A thirty-fourth aspect is A transport device according to the 30th aspect, or the 31st aspect related to the 30th aspect, or the 33rd aspect, further comprising a transport belt having a first end fixed to a first drive roller and a second end fixed to a second drive roller, the transport belt extending from the first drive roller, around the leading edge of the first tip platform segment, over the upper surface of the articulated transport platform, and to the second drive roller, the first drive roller and the second drive roller being operably coupled to the transport device controller. The thirty-fifth aspect is A thirty-fourth aspect of the conveying device is a conveying device, wherein the conveying belt is a first conveying belt, and the conveying device further comprises a second conveying belt extending below the bottom surface of the articulated conveying platform on a first side of the device body, and a third conveying belt extending below the bottom surface of the articulated conveying platform on a second side of the device body. A thirty-sixth aspect is A transport device in any one of the 29th to 35th aspects, further comprising an engagement plate positioned adjacent to the end of the internal track, the engagement plate configured to restrain adjacent segment links as they pass through the engagement plate as the articulated transport platform is extended, and configured to release the restraint as adjacent segment links pass through the engagement plate as the articulated transport platform is retracted. A thirty-seventh aspect is A conveying device in any one of aspects 29 to 35, further comprising a first engagement plate adjacent to a first end of the internal track and a second engagement plate adjacent to a second end of the internal track, the first and second engagement plates configured to constrain adjacent segment links when exiting the internal track and to release the constraining of adjacent segment links when entering the internal track. A thirty-eighth aspect is A transport device in any one of aspects 29 to 35, wherein the device body has a width between a first side and a second side of the device body, and when the articulated transport platform is fully extended from the first side of the device body, the distance between the leading edge of the first tip platform segment and the first side of the device body is greater than the width of the device body. A thirty-ninth aspect is an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least an upper surface of the conveyor belt; a fluid dispenser configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least the upper surface of the conveyor belt; A conveying device according to any one of the 29th to 38th aspects, further comprising a belt processing system having at least one of: a fluid agitator configured to agitate the fluid in a fluid container through which the conveying belt is configured to pass; and The fortieth aspect is A conveying device in a 39th aspect related to the 30th aspect or the 29th aspect, wherein the conveying device controller is operably coupled to the belt processing system, and the conveying device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid emitter, and the fluid agitator, simultaneously or separately from each other. The forty-first aspect is an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least a top surface of the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments; a fluid dispenser configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least the upper surface of the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments; A conveying device according to any one of the 29th to 40th aspects, further comprising a platform segment processing system having at least one of: a fluid agitator configured to agitate fluid in a fluid container through which the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments are configured to pass; The forty-second aspect is A transport device in a 41st aspect, wherein the transport device controller is operably coupled to the platform segment processing system, and the transport device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid emitter, and the fluid agitator, simultaneously or separately from each other. The forty-third aspect is A conveying device according to any one of the 29th to 42nd aspects, further comprising an apparatus support structure fixed to the apparatus body for supporting the apparatus body above a floor surface, the apparatus support structure being configurable to adjust the height and / or angle of the apparatus body from the floor surface. The forty-fourth aspect is A forty-third aspect of the transport apparatus, wherein the apparatus support structure comprises a plurality of wheels that facilitate movement of the transport apparatus across the floor surface. The forty-fifth aspect is A transport device according to aspect 44, wherein at least one of the plurality of wheels is driven by a motor so that the transport device can move itself on the floor surface. The forty-sixth aspect is A transport device according to any one of the 30th, 33rd, 34th, 40th and 42nd aspects, wherein the transport device comprises a plurality of controllable subsystems, and the transport device controller comprises a plurality of controllers configured to control the articulated transport platform and all of the controllable subsystems. The forty-seventh aspect is A transport device according to any one of aspects 30, 33, 34, 40 and 42, wherein the transport device comprises a plurality of controllable subsystems, and the transport device controller comprises a single controller configured to control the articulated transport platform and all of the controllable subsystems.

Claims

1. a device body having a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side; a tip platform segment having a first end, a second end, a leading edge extending between the first end and the second end, a trailing edge extending between the first end and the second end, and a tip locking mechanism; an articulated transport platform comprising a plurality of intermediate platform segments including a leading intermediate platform segment and one or more trailing intermediate platform segments, each intermediate platform segment having a first end, a second end, a first edge extending between the first end and the second end, a second edge extending between the first end and the second end, and an intermediate locking mechanism; the leading edge locking mechanism is removably securable to the mid-locking mechanism of the leading mid-platform segment; the mid-locking mechanism of each subsequent intermediate platform segment is removably securable to the mid-locking mechanism of the preceding adjacent intermediate platform segment; In a stowed position, the leading intermediate platform segment is positioned adjacent to the leading platform segment so as to be flush with the leading platform segment, the one or more trailing intermediate platform segments are positioned below the leading intermediate platform segment, the leading locking mechanism is disengaged from the mid-locking mechanism of the leading intermediate platform segment, and the mid-locking mechanism of the one or more trailing intermediate platform segments is disengaged from the mid-locking mechanism of the leading intermediate platform segment; An object transport device, wherein in an extended position, the articulated transport platform extends laterally from the device main body, the tip platform segment is positioned laterally apart so that at least a portion of the articulated transport platform is positioned below an object, the tip locking mechanism of the tip platform segment is fixed to the intermediate locking mechanism of the leading intermediate platform segment, and the intermediate locking mechanism of one of the subsequent intermediate platform segments is fixed to the intermediate locking mechanism of the leading intermediate platform segment.

2. 2. The object transport device of claim 1, wherein the tip locking mechanism is located adjacent to the first end of the tip platform segment, and for each intermediate platform segment, the intermediate locking mechanism is located adjacent to the first end of the intermediate platform segment.

3. The object transport apparatus of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a transport apparatus controller configured to control the articulated transport platform.

4. 4. The object transport device of claim 3, further comprising a platform lateral actuator operably coupled to the transport device controller, the platform lateral actuator configured to selectively move the tip platform segment and the intermediate platform segment fixed thereto laterally relative to the device body.

5. 5. The object transport device of claim 3 or 4, further comprising a platform segment support assembly operably coupled to the transport device controller, the platform segment support assembly configured to selectively lift the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments to align the intermediate locking mechanism of the lifted subsequent intermediate platform segment with the intermediate locking mechanism of the preceding intermediate platform segment.

6. The object transport apparatus of claim 5 , further comprising a platform segment release actuator operably coupled to the transport apparatus controller, the platform segment release actuator configured to selectively release the locking mechanism of a subsequent platform segment.

7. 7. An object transport apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in the stowed position, the distal platform segment is at least partially above the apparatus body.

8. 8. An object transport apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in the storage position, the leading platform segment is fixed to the leading intermediate platform segment.

9. 9. An object transport apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in the storage position, the trailing intermediate platform segments are stacked vertically below the leading intermediate platform segment.

10. An object transport device as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein when the tip platform segment and the intermediate platform segment of the articulated transport platform are fixed to each other to form fixed segments, the fixed segments can rotate relative to each other by 1° to 30°, or 10° to 20°, or 15°.

11. The object transport device of claim 10, wherein when the tip platform segment and the intermediate platform segment of the articulated transport platform are fixed to each other to form the fixed segment, the fixed segment is biased toward a neutral arrangement in which adjacent segments are generally planar.

12. 12. The object transport apparatus of claim 11, wherein a resilient plate comprises each of the leading platform segment and the intermediate platform segment, each of the resilient plates biasing the fixed segment toward the neutral alignment.

13. An object transport device described in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the device body has a width between the first side and the second side of the device body, and in the extended position, the distance between the leading edge of the tip platform segment and the first side of the device body is greater than the width of the device body.

14. 14. The object transport device of claim 13, wherein the width of the device body is between 400 mm and 1000 mm, and in the extended position, the distance between the leading edge of the tip platform segment and the first side of the device body is between 600 mm and 1400 mm.

15. 15. An object transport apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the tip locking mechanism comprises one or more recesses.

16. 15. An object transport apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the tip locking mechanism comprises one or more protrusions.

17. The object transport apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the intermediate locking mechanism comprises one or more protrusions and one or more recesses.

18. An object transport device as described in any one of claims 3 to 6, further comprising a transport belt having a first end fixed to a first drive roller and a second end fixed to a second drive roller, the transport belt extending from the first drive roller, around the leading edge of the tip platform segment, over the upper surface of the articulated transport platform, and to the second drive roller, the first drive roller and the second drive roller being operably coupled to a transport device controller.

19. The object transport device of claim 18, wherein the transport belt is a first transport belt, and the object transport device further comprises a second transport belt extending below the bottom surface of the articulated transport platform on a first side of the device body, and a third transport belt extending below the bottom surface of the articulated transport platform on a second side of the device body.

20. an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least an upper surface of the conveyor belt; a fluid dispenser configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least the upper surface of the conveyor belt; and a fluid agitator configured to agitate fluid in a fluid container through which the transport belt is configured to pass.

21. 21. The object transport device of claim 20, wherein the transport device controller is operably coupled to the belt processing system, and the transport device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid emitter, and the fluid agitator, simultaneously or separately from each other.

22. an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least an upper surface of the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments; a fluid dispenser configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least the upper surface of the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments; An object transport device described in any one of claims 3 to 6 and 18 to 21, further comprising a platform segment processing system comprising at least one of: a fluid agitator configured to agitate fluid in a fluid container through which the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments are configured to pass;

23. 23. The object transport device of claim 22, wherein the transport device controller is operably coupled to the platform segment processing system, and the transport device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid emitter, and the fluid agitator, simultaneously or separately from each other.

24. An object transport device as described in any one of claims 1 to 23, further comprising an apparatus support structure fixed to the apparatus body for supporting the apparatus body above a floor surface, the apparatus support structure being configurable to adjust the height and / or angle of the apparatus body from the floor surface.

25. 25. The object transport apparatus of claim 24, wherein the apparatus support structure comprises a plurality of wheels that facilitate movement of the object transport apparatus across the floor surface.

26. 26. The object transport apparatus of claim 25, wherein at least one of the plurality of wheels is driven by a motor so that the object transport apparatus can move itself across the floor surface.

27. An object transport device described in any one of claims 3 to 6 and 18 to 23, wherein the object transport device comprises a plurality of controllable subsystems, and the transport device controller comprises a plurality of controllers configured to control the articulated transport platform and all of the controllable subsystems.

28. An object transport device described in any one of claims 3 to 6 and 18 to 23, wherein the object transport device comprises a plurality of controllable subsystems, and the transport device controller comprises a single controller configured to control the articulated transport platform and all of the controllable subsystems.

29. a device body having a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side; an articulated transport platform comprising a leading platform segment and a plurality of intermediate platform segments; each platform segment having a first end, a second end, and a segment link disposed at each of the first end and the second end, the tip platform segment having a leading edge; the segment links of adjacent platform segments are pivotally coupled to one another; the segment links of adjacent platform segments are configured to be selectively constrained in an aligned position; In a stowed position, the leading intermediate platform segment is positioned adjacent to the leading platform segment so as to be flush with the leading platform segment, and the platform segments of the articulated transport platform engage internal tracks of the device body; as the articulated transport platform is extended from the stowed position, the leading platform segment extends laterally away from the main body so that at least a portion of the articulated transport platform is positioned below the object, and the segment links of subsequent platform segments are constrained in the aligned position upon exiting the internal track; As the articulated transport platform is retracted, the segment links of subsequent platform segments are unconstrained from the aligned position as they enter the internal track.

30. 30. The object transport apparatus of claim 29, further comprising a transport apparatus controller configured to control the articulated transport platform.

31. the articulated transport platform is a first articulated transport platform, the leading platform segment is a first leading platform segment, the intermediate platform segment is a first intermediate platform segment, the internal track is a first internal track, and the object transport apparatus is a second articulated transport platform comprising a second leading edge platform segment and a plurality of second intermediate platform segments; each second platform segment having a first end, a second end, and a segment link disposed at each of the first and second ends, the second tip platform segment having a leading edge; the segment links of adjacent second platform segments are pivotally coupled to one another; the segment links of adjacent second platform segments are configured to be selectively constrained in an aligned position; In a stowed position, the platform segment of the second articulated transport platform engages a second internal track of the device body; as the second articulated transport platform is extended from the stowed position, the second distal platform segment extends laterally away from the main body of the device, and the segment links of a trailing second platform segment are constrained in the aligned position upon exiting the second internal track; An object transport device as described in claim 29 or 30, wherein as the second articulated transport platform is retracted, the segment links of the subsequent second platform segment are released from the aligned position as they enter the second internal track.

32. a device body having a first side and a second side; an articulated transport platform comprising a first tip platform segment, a plurality of intermediate platform segments, and a second tip platform segment, each platform segment having a first end, a second end and a segment link disposed at each of the first and second ends, and each tip platform segment having a leading edge; the segment links of adjacent platform segments are pivotally coupled to one another and configured to be selectively constrained in an aligned position; In a stowed position, the leading intermediate platform segment is positioned adjacent to the first and second tip platform segments so as to be coplanar with the tip platform segments, and the platform segments of the articulated transport platform engage internal tracks of the device body; as the articulated transport platform is extended from a first side of the device body, the first distal platform segment extends laterally away from the device body such that at least a portion of the articulated transport platform is positioned below the object, and the segment links of subsequent intermediate platform segments are constrained in the aligned position upon exiting the internal track; as the articulated transport platform is extended from the second side of the main body, the second distal platform segment extends laterally away from the main body such that at least a portion of the articulated transport platform is positioned below the object, and the segment links of the subsequent intermediate platform segment are constrained in the aligned position upon exiting the internal track; When the intermediate platform segments enter the internal track, their segment links are unconstrained from the aligned position.

33. 33. The object transport apparatus of claim 32, further comprising a transport apparatus controller configured to control the articulated transport platform.

34. 34. The object transport device of claim 33, further comprising a transport belt having a first end fixed to a first drive roller and a second end fixed to a second drive roller, the transport belt extending from the first drive roller, around the leading edge of the first tip platform segment, over the upper surface of the articulated transport platform, and to the second drive roller, the first drive roller and the second drive roller being operably coupled to the transport device controller.

35. The object transport device of claim 34, wherein the transport belt is a first transport belt, and the object transport device further comprises a second transport belt extending below the bottom surface of the articulated transport platform on a first side of the device body, and a third transport belt extending below the bottom surface of the articulated transport platform on a second side of the device body.

36. An object transport device as described in any one of claims 29 to 35, further comprising an engagement plate positioned adjacent to an end of the internal track, the engagement plate configured to constrain adjacent segment links as they pass through the engagement plate as the articulated transport platform is extended, and configured to release the constraining force as adjacent segment links pass through the engagement plate as the articulated transport platform is retracted.

37. 36. An object transport device as described in any one of claims 29 to 35, further comprising a first engagement plate adjacent a first end of the internal track and a second engagement plate adjacent a second end of the internal track, the first and second engagement plates configured to constrain adjacent segment links when exiting the internal track and to release constraining adjacent segment links when entering the internal track.

38. An object transport device as described in any one of claims 29 to 35, wherein the device body has a width between a first side and a second side of the device body, and when the articulated transport platform is fully extended from the first side of the device body, the distance between the leading edge of the first tip platform segment and the first side of the device body is greater than the width of the device body.

39. an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least an upper surface of the conveyor belt; a fluid dispenser configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least the upper surface of the conveyor belt; 39. The object transport device of any one of claims 29 to 38, further comprising a belt handling system comprising at least one of: a fluid agitator configured to agitate fluid in a fluid container through which the transport belt is configured to pass;

40. 40. The object transport device of claim 39, wherein the transport device controller is operably coupled to the belt processing system, and the transport device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid emitter, and the fluid agitator, simultaneously or separately from each other.

41. an ultraviolet (UV) emitter configured to direct ultraviolet light toward at least an upper surface of the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments; a fluid dispenser configured to direct at least one of a cleaning agent and a disinfectant toward at least the upper surface of the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments; An object transport device as described in any one of claims 29 to 40, further comprising a platform segment processing system comprising at least one of: a fluid agitator configured to agitate fluid in a fluid container through which the one or more subsequent intermediate platform segments are configured to pass;

42. 42. The object transport device of claim 41, wherein the transport device controller is operably coupled to the platform segment processing system, and the transport device controller is configured to selectively activate one or more of the ultraviolet light emitter, the fluid emitter, and the fluid agitator, simultaneously or separately from each other.

43. An object transport device as described in any one of claims 29 to 42, further comprising an apparatus support structure fixed to the apparatus body for supporting the apparatus body above a floor surface, the apparatus support structure being configurable to adjust the height and / or angle of the apparatus body from the floor surface.

44. 44. The object transport apparatus of claim 43, wherein the apparatus support structure comprises a plurality of wheels that facilitate movement of the object transport apparatus across the floor surface.

45. 45. The object transport apparatus of claim 44, wherein at least one of the plurality of wheels is driven by a motor so that the object transport apparatus can move itself across the floor surface.

46. An object transport device as described in any one of claims 30, 33, 34, 40 and 42, wherein the object transport device comprises a plurality of controllable subsystems, and the transport device controller comprises a plurality of controllers configured to control the articulated transport platform and all of the controllable subsystems.

47. An object transport device as described in any one of claims 30, 33, 34, 40 and 42, wherein the object transport device comprises a plurality of controllable subsystems, and the transport device controller comprises a single controller configured to control the articulated transport platform and all of the controllable subsystems.

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