Asymmetrically compliant edge for patient transfer platform

Abstract

A patient transfer platform includes a platform body with one or more leading edges positioned along a longitudinal side of the platform body. The leading edges include multiple plates located along the side of the platform body. One or more flexible attachments couples the plates to the platform body. Each of the plates has a range of motion bounded in a first direction by a first plate position generally parallel with the platform body. The range of motion extends away from the first plate position in a second direction. In some cases the plates can depress a patient support surface and also deflect under pressure from a patient upon the support surface.

Description

ASYMMETRICALLY COMPLIANT EDGE FOR PATIENT TRANSFER PLATFORMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 536,633, filed September 5, 2023, and entitled “Asymmetrically Compliant Edge for Patient Transfer Platform,” which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The disclosure relates to patient transfer and transportation and patient comfort during the transfer and transportation process. Particularly, this disclosure relates to platforms or surfaces used to transfer and support the human body during the process of moving the body from one supporting surface to another, or from one location to another.BACKGROUND

[0003] A patient transfer device generally has a transfer platform configured to move a human body from one supporting surface to another. The transfer platform may be physically manipulated and controlled by one or more individuals, or the transfer platform may be part of a' transfer device. As part of a transfer device, the transfer platform may be manually manipulated, or the platform may be electromechanically enabled and therefore robotic in nature. A robotic transfer device can be controlled by a controls system, for example to control movement of the transfer platform when moving an object or patient.

[0004] As is generally understood, non-compliant surfaces are typically uncomfortable during physical interactions such as a patient transfer process. That is, hard surfaces are generally not comfortable when used for transfer or transportation of people in a supine position.

[0005] There is a need in the art for improved transfer and transportation devices and platforms.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0006] Disclosed herein are various transfer platforms and related patient transfer devices, methods, and systems. The disclosed platforms include an asymmetrically compliant edge comprised of a central rigid platform that is flanked by one or more flexible plates, wherein the platesare configured to resist upwards forces and simultaneously deflect in response to downward forces. Some implementations of the disclosed technology include the following possible examples:

[0007] In Example 1 , a patient transfer platform comprising a substantially rectangular platform body, a plurality of plates on a longitudinal side of the substantially rectangular platform body, and a flexible attachment for attaching each of the plurality of plates to the platform body, wherein the plurality of plates are configured to remain directionally rigid until an external force is applied.

[0008] In Example 2, a patient transfer platform per Example 1 wherein the flexible attachment includes a resilient member to return plates that have been deformed from their default position, backto their default position.

[0009] In Example 3, a patient transfer platform per Examples 1 or 2 wherein the flexible attachment includes a hinge that allows for rotational freedom about the longitudinal axis of the platform core.

[0010] In Example 4, a patient transfer platform of any of Examples 1 through 3 wherein the flexible attachment includes adjoining materials between adjacent plates that couples their motion to each other.

[0011] In Example 5, a patient transfer platform of any of Examples 1 through 4 wherein the platform is covered by a compliant layer.

[0012] In Example 6, a patient transfer platform of any of Examples 1 through 5 wherein the platform is enveloped by an endless (continuous) conveyor belt.

[0013] In Example 7, a patient transfer platform of any of Examples 1 through 6 wherein the platform is affixed to an actuatorthat is manually manipulated.

[0014] In Example 8, a patient transfer platform of any of Examples 1 through 6 wherein the platform is affixed to a patient transfer device that utilizes conveyor belts and electromechanical actuators to perform patient transfer.

[0015] In Example 9, the patient transfer platform of any of Examples 1 through 8, wherein the plurality of plates are configured to remain directionally rigid until an external force is applied in the desired direction of conformity.

[0016] An aspect of the disclosed technology provides a patient transfer platform including a generally rectangular platform body comprising first and second longitudinal sides and one or more leading edges positioned along the first and / or second longitudinal sides. The one or more leading edges each include one or more plates located along the first or second longitudinal side of the platform body as well as one or more flexible attachments coupling the one or more plates to the platform body. Each of the one or more plates has a range of motion with respect to the platformbody that is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate of the one or more plates is generally parallel with the platform body. The range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position.

[0017] Another aspect of the disclosed technology provides a patient transfer platform that includes a generally rectangular platform body with first and second longitudinal sides and a first leading edge positioned along the first longitudinal side. The first leading edge include a plurality of plates located along the first longitudinal side of the platform body. The transfer platform also includes a plurality of flexible attachments coupling the plates to the platform body. Each of the plates has a range of motion with respect to the platform body that is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate is generally parallel with the platform body. The range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position.

[0018] Each of these aspects of the disclosed technology may further include some or all of the following optional components, features, and characteristics.

[0019] Optionally, the first direction is upward toward the first plate position and the second direction is downward away from the first plate position. Each flexible attachment optionally includes a resilient member that biases the respective plate toward the first plate position. The resilient member optionally includes a spring, which is optionally a torsion spring. The resilient member optionally includes a spring plate comprising a first portion attached to the platform body and a second portion attached to the respective plate.

[0020] Each flexible attachment optionally includes a hinge coupling the platform body to the respective plate. The hinge optionally includes a maximum hinge angle that limits the range of motion in the second direction. The hinge is optionally a living hinge. The living hinge is optionally integral with one or more of the respective plate and the platform body.

[0021] Each flexible attachment optionally includes a flexible material comprising a first portion attached to the platform body and a second portion attached to the respective plate, wherein the flexible material limits the range of motion in the second direction. The flexible material optionally includes webbing. The flexible material optionally includes a compliant layer. The flexible material is optionally resilient.

[0022] Optionally, interference between the respective plate and the platform body limits the range of motion in the first direction to the first plate position. Each of the plates includes a width and the widths of the plates optionally vary along the longitudinal edge of the platform. The plurality of plates optionally form a plurality of adjacent pairs of plates, and the platform optionally includes anadjacent flexible connection between one or more of the adjacent pairs of plates, thereby limiting relative displacement between the one or more adjacent pairs of plates. The adjacent flexible connection optionally includes webbing. The adjacent flexible connection optionally includes a resilient material.

[0023] Optionally, each of the plates has a generally rectangular shape, or optionally a generally triangular shape. Each of the plates optionally includes one of one or more geometric shapes of a tessellation, wherein the plates are flexibly connected to each other and to the platform body to form a deformable plane.

[0024] The patient transfer platform optionally includes a compliant layer covering the platform body and the plates. The patient transfer platform optionally includes an endless conveyor belt wrapping about the platform body and the plates. The transfer platform is optionally part of a manually operated patient transfer device. The patient transfer platform is optionally part of an electromechanically operated patient transfer device.

[0025] The patient transfer platform optionally includes a second leading edge positioned alongthe second longitudinal side, the second leading edge comprising a plurality of plates located alongthe second longitudinal side of the platform body and a plurality of flexible attachments coupling the plates to the platform body. Each of the plates comprises a range of motion with respect to the platform body. The range of motion is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate is generally parallel with the platform body, and the range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position.

[0026] Accordingto another aspect, a patient transfer device includes a transfer platform including a generally rectangular platform body comprising first and second longitudinal sides and first and second lateral sides and a first leading edge located alongthe first longitudinal side. The first leading edge includes a plurality of plates located along the first longitudinal side and a plurality of flexible attachments coupling the plates to the platform body. Each of the plates includes a range of motion with respect to the platform body and the range of motion is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate is generally parallel with the platform body. The range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position. The transfer platform also includes a second leading edge located alongthe second longitudinal side. The second leading edge includes a plurality of plates located along the second longitudinal side and a plurality of flexible attachments coupling the plates to the platform body. Each of the plates has a range of motion with respect to the platform body that is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which arespective plate is generally parallel with the platform body. The range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position. The patient transfer device also includes an endless conveyor belt wrapped about the first leading edge, the platform body, and the second leading edge. The device also includes one or more handles positioned at the first lateral side of the platform body and one or more handles positioned at the second lateral side of the platform body.

[0027] According to another aspect, a patient transfer device includes a device body, a transfer platform supported by the device body, a conveyor belt wrapped about the transfer platform, and a control system configured to control operation of the transfer, platform and conveyor belt. The transfer platform is supported by the device body and includes a generally rectangular platform body having first and second longitudinal sides. The transfer platform also includes a first leading edge positioned along the first longitudinal side. The first leading edge includes a plurality of plates located along the first longitudinal side of the platform body and a plurality of flexible attachments couplingthe plates to the platform body. Each of the plates has a range of motion with respectto the platform body that is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate is generally parallel with the platform body. The range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position.

[0028] The patient transfer device optionally includes a second leading edge positioned along the second longitudinal side. The second leading edge includes a plurality of plates located along the second longitudinal side of the platform body and a plurality of flexible attachments coupling the plates to the platform body. Each of the plates has a range of motion with respect to the platform body that is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate is generally parallel with the platform body. The range of motion also extends in a second direction away from the first plate position.

[0029] While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the invention. As will be realized, the disclosure is capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] FIGS. 1A-1 D are perspective, top, side, and bottom views, respectively, of a patient transfer platform, accordingto an implementation.

[0031] FIG. 2A is a partial side sectional view and FIG. 2B is a partial side view of a patient transfer platform with a leading edge plate in a first position, according to an implementation.

[0032] FIG. 2C is a partial side view of the transfer platform of FIGS. 2A-2B with the leading edge plate in a second position, according to an implementation.

[0033] FIGS. 2D and 2E are enlarged views of a hinge point of the transfer platform of FIGS. 2A and 2D, respectively, according to an implementation.

[0034] FIG. 3A is a partial side sectional view of a patient transfer platform with a leading edge plate in a first position, according to an implementation.

[0035] FIGS. 3B and 3C are a side sectional view and a side view, respectively, of the transfer platform of FIG. 3A with the leading edge plate in a second position, accordingto an implementation.

[0036] FIGS. 3D, 3E, and 3F are enlarged views of areas D, E, and F in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C, respectively.

[0037] FIG. 4A is a partial side sectional view of a patient transfer platform with a leading edge plate in a first position, according to an implementation.

[0038] FIGS. 4B and 4G are a side sectional view and a side view, respectively, of the transfer platform of FIG. 4A with the leading edge plate in a second position, accordingto an implementation.

[0039] FIGS. 4D, 4E, and 4F are enlarged views of areas F, G, and H in FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C, respectively.

[0040] FIG. 5A is a partial side sectional view of a patient transfer platform with a leading edge plate in a first position, according to an implementation.

[0041] FIGS. 5B and 5C are a side sectional view and a side view, respectively, of the transfer platform of FIG. 5A with the leading edge plate in a second position, accordingto an implementation.

[0042] FIGS. 5D, 5E, and 5F are enlarged views of areas J, K, and L in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, respectively.

[0043] FIGS. 6A and 6B are partial top and side views, respectively, of a transfer platform with a leading edge plate in a first position, according to an implementation.

[0044] FIG. 6C is a side view of the transfer platform of FIGS. 6A-6B with the leading edge plate in a second position, according to an implementation.

[0045] FIG. 7A is a partial side view of a transfer platform with a leading edge plate in a first position, according to an implementation.

[0046] FIG. 7B is a side view of the transfer platform of FIG. 7A with the leading edge plate in a second position, accordingto an implementation.

[0047] FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C are perspective, end, and side views, respectively, of an adjacent pair of leading edge plates, according to an implementation.

[0048] FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective and end views, respectively, of an adjacent pair of leading edge plates, accordingto an implementation.

[0049] FIGS. 10A-10C are perspective, end, and side views, respectively, of multiple pairs of leading edge plates, accordingto an implementation.

[0050] FIG. 11A is a perspective bottom view, and FIG. 11 B is an end view, of a patient transfer platform, accordingto an implementation.

[0051] FIG. 12A is a perspective bottom view, and FIG. 12B is an end view, of a patient transfer platform, accordingto an implementation.

[0052] FIG. 13A is a perspective bottom view, and FIG. 13B is an end view, of a patient transfer platform, accordingto an implementation.

[0053] FIGS. 14A-14D are perspective, top, side, and bottom views, respectively, of a patient transfer platform, according to an implementation.

[0054] FIG. 15A is a perspective bottom view, and FIG. 15B is an end view, of a patient transfer platform, accordingto an implementation.

[0055] FIG. 16A is a perspective bottom view, and FIG. 16B is an end view, of a patient transfer platform, accordingto an implementation.

[0056] FIG. 17A is a perspective bottom view, and FIG. 17B is an end view, of a patient transfer platform, accordingto an implementation.

[0057] FIGS. 18A-18D are perspective, top, side, and bottom views, respectively, of a patient transfer platform, according to an implementation.

[0058] FIG. 19A is a perspective bottom view, and FIG. 19B is an end view, of a patient transfer platform, accordingto an implementation.

[0059] FIG. 20A is a perspective bottom view, and FIG. 20B is an end view, of a patient transfer platform, accordingto an implementation.

[0060] FIG. 21 A is a perspective bottom view, and FIG. 21 B is an end view, of a patient transfer platform, accordingto an implementation.

[0061] FIGS. 22A-22D are perspective, top, side, and bottom views, respectively, of a patient transfer platform, according to an implementation.

[0062] FIG. 23 is a perspective bottom view of a patient transfer platform, according to an implementation.

[0063] ' FIGS. 24A-24C are perspective, top, and detailed views, respectively, of a patient transfer platform with leading edge plates in a first position, according to an implementation.

[0064] FIGS. 25A-25C are perspective, side, and detailed views, respectively, of a patient transfer platform with leading edge plates in a second position, according to an implementation.

[0065] FIGS. 26A and 26B are perspective and end views of a patient transfer device including a patient transfer platform, according to an implementation.

[0066] FIGS. 27Aand 27B are perspective views of an electromechanically operated patienttransfer device including a patient transfer platform, accordingto an implementation.

[0067] FIGS. 28A and 28B are perspective views of a manually operated patient transfer device including a patient transfer platform, according to an implementation.

[0068] FIGS. 29A and 29B are partial perspective and side elevation views, respectively, of a leading edge of a patient transfer platform, according to an implementation.

[0069] FIGS. 30A and 30B are partial perspective and side elevation views, respectively, of a leading edge of a patient transfer platform, according to an implementation.

[0070] FIGS. 31A-31 C are schematic views illustrating the behavior of a leading edge plate in response to various forces, accordingto an implementation.

[0071] FIGS. 32A and 32B are schematic views of a leading edge plate in contact with a support surface and a patient upon a support surface, respectively, accordingto an implementation.

[0072] FIGS. 33A-33C are schematic views of a patient transfer and transportation device with a transfer platform interacting with a patient upon a support surface, accordingto an implementation.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0073] Compression of a support surface (e.g., a mattress) for a patient can improve comfort during the process of transferring a patient between support surfaces. Typically, a rigid material (e.g., a rigid leading edge of a transfer platform) must exert a downward force to compress the support surface. The rigid material is, by its very nature, uncomfortable due to its stiff and non-compliant interaction with the relatively soft tissues of a patient. Implementations of the disclosed technology addressthis and other issues by providing, among otherthings, a patient transfer platform with one or more leading edges that yield to forces from a first direction and resists forces from a second direction. As an example, in various cases such a leading edge yields to downward pressure from the patient’s body and also resists upward pressure from the patient’s mattress as the transfer platform compresses the mattress. In various cases this type of leading edge may be referred to herein as an asymmetrically compliant edge or “ACE.” A patient transfer platform incorporating such a leading edge may be referred to herein as an ACE platform. It will be apparent from the disclosure that various implementations of an asymmetrically compliant edge provide improved patient comfort by compressing a mattress while also being capable of yielding to the weight of a patient being moved on to the transfer platform.

[0074] In the implementations described herein, various components and parts may be described as “flexible.” For the purposes of this disclosure, a flexible component or material is one that can bend without breaking. In some cases the flexible material is also optionally elastic or resilient. In such cases the flexible, resilient material generally yields to applied forces and then returns to its original shape or about its original shape once the applied forces have ceased. Accordingly, flexible materials and components described here are generally bendable and in some cases are optionally resilient. In some cases flexible materials and components are simply bendable and not resilient.

[0075] As shown in the drawings, the transfer platform 10 described herein can have one or more plates 12 around the edge of the platform body or core 11 . In various cases the plate(s) are positioned along one or more of the long edges of the rectangular platform 10. The platform 10 may include any number of suitable plates 12 including, for example, a single plate 12, two or more, several, or a near infinite number of plates 12. As will be discussed in greater detail, the edge plates 12 are configured to flex and / or hinge at a hinge or flex point 16 as a force is applied to the plates in a first direction. As an example, the plates 12 can deflect downward in some cases when encountering the weight of a patient being moved onto the transfer platform.

[0076] Advantageously, the various platform 10 implementations disclosed herein are able to compress a support surface, such as a mattress, and also deflect under loads from a patient. In other words, in some cases upwards forces are resisted while the platform 10 is compliant to downwards forces.

[0077] As would be understood, the dimensions of the plates 12 can vary, in each of width, length, and shape. The figures generally show implementations with rectangular plates 12. FIGS. 24A-25C show implementations with triangular plates 12, which will be discussed further below. For bothimplementations, the width of the plates 12 can vary along the longitudinal edge of the platform 10 in order to improve comfort for areas of the body where large or abrupt changes are anticipated on the body — such as the hips and shoulders. That is plates 12 with a larger width can be located in areas where large changes are anticipated and plates 12 with a smallerwidth can be located in areas where more contouring is anticipated. Alternatively, the plates 12 may be of uniform width alongthe length of the platform 10.

[0078] Further, the length of the plates 12 can also be adjusted such that the maximum angle of deflection can be altered. That is, the amount of vertical displacement from the external load can be adjusted by adjusting the length of the plates 12. For example, a shorter plate 12 has a steeper angle than a longer plate 12.

[0079] The amount of deflection of the plates 12 and therefore downwards force into the mattress can be limited by limiting the allowable hinge-angle of each plate 12. That is, the plates 12 can be set to have a maximum deflection or hinge angle. In certain additional or alternative implementations, the platform 10 includes a compliant covering and a flexible material (e.g., webbing 17) that joins the plate 12 to the core or body 11 of the platform 10. The compliant covering and flexible material 17 may be permanently affixed to the platform 10 or alternatively may be removable.

[0080] In various implementations, the plates 12 are configured to return to a neutral or “zero deflection” position, which is also referred to herein as a first plate position, when no forces are applied to the platform 10. In certain implementations, a resilient member such as a spring 18 is in communication with each plate 12 to force the plate 12 to its neutral position. The various platform 10 implementations disclosed herein are passive and work under physical / environmental loads without the need for active control. In various cases the reaction / deflection of the plates 12 can be adjusted by the design of the resilient member (e.g., spring 18). For example, a stiffer spring 18 will deflect less under an external downwards force (body interaction) than a weaker spring 18.

[0081] In various alternative implementations, the plates 12 have a generally triangular geometry, as shown in FIGS. 24-25. The triangular plates 12 can prevent discontinuities and abrupt steps at the edge of the platform 10 surface. This can improve resistance to belt wear and increase patient comfort.

[0082] The various transfer platform 10 implementations disclosed herein are in some cases more economical and efficient than known platforms because the plates 12 allow for a slope to be created only when and where necessary. Various prior known platform designs include a fully sloping edgewhich can often result in a very thick platform which has a steep slope and results in less comfort, increased material usage, and decreased efficiency.

[0083] In some cases the movement and reaction to external forces of the plates 12 can be limited or controlled about the longitudinal axis and about transverse axis of the platform by adding a flexible material upon a single plate or between plates or by limiting the range of motion in the flexure / hinge.

[0084] Various implementations improve comfort for the patient by restricting the magnitude of relative displacement of adjacent plates 12 in one or two ways. For example, by narrowing the width of the plates 12, external disturbances can be more closely approximated by the plate 12 movement and therefore relative displacement can be minimized. The second method is to add flexible connections (e.g., webbing) 19 that link and physically limit the relative motion of adjacent plates 12. The degree of limitation can be adjusted by altering the length of the connections 19.

[0085] Various implementations may include the use of a hinge as a flexible attachment. In some implementations, the hinge may be a living hinge. As would be understood to those in the art, a living hinge may be a thin, flexible connection that allows for pivoting of the connected pieces about the living hinge, such as but not limited to the hinging portions of clamshell containers. In other implementations, the flexible attachment may be a mechanical hinge. In still further implementations, the plate 12 may be constructed of a flexible material, such as spring steel or the like that may allow the whole plate 12 to bend. In various implementations, the range to which the plates 12 may deflect may be about 0 degrees to about 90 degrees.

[0086] Implementations of the disclosed technology can provide transfer platforms that incorporate a variety of the features described herein. In various cases a transfer platform 10 includes a flexible attachment implemented as a living hinge, a mechanical hinge, a spring plate or spring steel, or other suitable attachment mechanisms. In various implementations, the transfer platform 10 may or may not include a resilient memberthat biases the edge plate toward a first plate position at the end of the range of motion. In various cases resilient member options include none, a torsion spring, and spring plate. In some cases movement of the plate away from the first plate position (e.g., downward) may be restricted through the use of a torsion spring stop, a flexible member / sheet / strap that is not elastic, or the use of a flexible member / sheet / strap that is elastic. In various cases movement of the plate in the first direction toward the first plate position is limited through physical interference between geometry of the plate and the platform body. Further, various implementations optionally restrict relative movement of adjacent plates through the use of a flexible member / sheet / strap that is not elastic or a flexible member / sheet / strap that is elastic.

[0087] FIGS. 1 A-1 D are perspective, top, side, and bottom views, respectively, of a patient transfer platform 10, according to various implementations. The transfer platform 10 includes a platform body 11 configured to support and transfer and / ortransport a patient. In various cases, the platform body 11 is generally rectangular in shape as shown in FIGS. 1A-1 D. The platform includes a first leading edge 13A along one longitudinal side and a second leading edge 13B along the other longitudinal side. Each of the leading edges 13A, 13B are made up of multiple plates 12, sometimes referred to herein as leading edge plates 12. Multiple flexible attachments 15 couple the plates 12 to the platform body 11 , as shown in FIG. 1 D.

[0088] The various implementations depicted in the drawings illustrate examples of transfer platforms 10that include dual leading edges 13A, 13B, with one leading edge along each longitudinal side of the platform. The number of leading edges 13 in any one implementation can vary. Various implementations of the patient transfer platform 10 may incorporate only a single leading edge 13 along just one longitudinal side of the transfer platform 10. It is also contemplated that various implementations may incorporate three or more leading edges 13, including along, for example, one of the lateral end sides of the platform 10. The discussion herein is typically in reference to a single leading edge 13, though it should be appreciated that the same applies to potential other leading edges.

[0089] According to various implementations, each of the leading edge plates 12 has a range of motion that allows the plate to move in response to various forces. FIG. 2A-2C depict the range of motion 30 for a leading edge plate 12 that is coupled to the transfer platform body 11 with a flexible attachment 15 according to various cases. The range of motion 30 extends between a first end 32 and a second end 34. According to various implementations, the range of motion 30 includes a first plate position 36, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, and a second plate position 38, as shown in FIG. 2C. As shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, the first plate position 36 coincides with the first end 32 of the range of motion. In various cases the first plate position 36 may also be referred to herein as a neutral position. The second plate position 38 optionally coincides with the second end 34 of the range of motion, though this is not required and is not the case in the example of FIG. 2C. In various implementations the second plate position 38, and optionally any plate position other than the first plate position, may be referred to as a flexed position or a deflected position.

[0090] As will be appreciated from the figures, the edge plate 12 moves through the range of motion 30 with respect to the platform body. The range of motion 30 is bounded in a first direction towardthe first end 32 of the range by the first plate position 36. The first plate position 36 is thus positioned at the first end 32 of the range of motion 30 and serves as the furthest extent to which the plate 12 can move in the first direction. The range of motion 30 extends in a second direction away from the first plate position 36 and toward the second end 34 of the range.

[0091] In the example depicted in FIGS. 2A-2C, the first plate position 36 bounds the range of motion 30 in the first direction, which is upward in this example. The range of motion 30 extends away from the first plate position 36 in the second direction, which is downward in this example. Thus, in this and other implementations, the edge plate 12 is flexibly attached to the platform body 11 such that the plate 12 moves upward to, but not beyond, the first plate position 36 and downward away from the first plate position 36. As discussed elsewhere herein, preventing the plate 12 from moving in the first direction (e.g., upward) past the first plate position 36 enables the leading edge of the transfer platform to exert a downward force to compress a patient support surface during a transfer operation. At the same time, the plate 12 is able to move in the second direction (e.g., downward) away from the first plate position 36 in response to a force acting on the edge plate 12 in the second direction. The edge plate 12 is thus capable of, for example, complying or giving way in response to the weight of a patient acting on the plate 12. This asymmetrical action in response to forces from different directions thus provides a compliant leading edge for a transfer platform that is still capable of compressing a patient support surface during a transfer operation.

[0092] According to various implementations, an edge plate 12 in the first plate position 36 is generally parallel with the platform body 11 , as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The range of motion 30 can vary depending upon a specific implementation. In various cases, the range of motion sweeps through 90 degrees from a generally horizontal position for the plate 12, parallel to the platform body 11 , to a generally vertical position for the plate 12, thus forming a 90 degree angle with the platform body 11 . In various cases the range of motion is less than 90 degrees.

[0093] FIGS. 3A-3F, 4A-4F, 5A-5F, 6A-6C, and 7A-7B depict additional examples of a transfer platform 10 according to various implementations. It should be appreciated that these examples illustrate several features in common with the examples in FIGS. 2A-2C, and thus the description of such common features in FIGS. 2A-2C equally applies to these other implementations unless otherwise stated. As just one example, each of the implementations has a transfer platform 10 that includes a transfer platform body 11 , a leading edge plate 12, and a flexible attachment 15 that couples the leading edge plate 12 to the transfer platform body 11 through a range of motion 30.

[0094] Returning to FIG. 1 D, the flexible attachments 15 that couple the leading edge plates to the platform body 11 can be implemented in multiple ways. Generally speaking, the flexible attachment 15 is formed from one or more strips, plates, or other pieces of material. The piece(s) of material are coupled (e.g., attached, joined, fastened, inherently formed, and other connecting techniques) between the edge plate 12 and the platform body 11 , and are either inherently flexible, or are connected together in a moveable manner to form an adjustable joint. In various cases the flexible attachment is also optionally resilient. For example, in various cases the flexible attachment includes a spring plate and / or other spring that couples the edge plate 12 to the platform body 11 while also allowing the edge plate 12 to deflect, flex, or otherwise bend within the range of motion. Another option includes a hinge that allows the edge plate to pivot through the range of motion 30. Various implementations may utilize multiple attachment mechanisms at the same time to provide a flexible attachment. For example, in various implementations the flexible attachment includes both a hinge and a spring plate.

[0095] Returningto FIGS. 2A-2C, according to various implementations, the flexible attachment 15 includes a hinge 40 and a flexible strip 42. The hinge 40 includes a first side 44 that is attached to the platform body 11 and a second side 46 that is attached to the edge plate 12. As the edge plate 12 moves, it pivots about a hinge point 16. The flexible strip 42 includes a first portion 48 that is attached to the platform body 11 and a second portion 50 that is attached to the edge plate 12. According to various implementations, the flexible strip 42 is resilient and biases the edge plate 12 towards the first plate position 36. At the same time, the resilient, flexible strip 42 limits or hinders movement or deflection of the edge plate 12 in the second direction, away from the first plate position. In these and at other times herein, the flexible strip(s) 42 are also referred to as resilient members. In various cases the flexible strip 42 is a spring plate.

[0096] The hinge 40 and the flexible strip 42 can be attached to the platform body 11 and the edge plate 12 in any suitable manner. In various cases the platform body and / or edge plate may be injection molded, in which case the platform body and / or edge plate may be formed about the sides of the hinge and portions of the flexible strip. In various other cases, the hinge and / or flexible strip may be fastened, attached, or adhered to the platform body and / or edge plate. Any other suitable connection method may also be used.

[0097] According to various implementations, the flexible attachment 15 includes a flexible strip 42 of material without a hinge. Turning to FIGS. 3A-3F, the transfer platform 10 includes a flexible attachment 15 in the form of a flexible strip 42 that couples the platform body 11 to the leading edgeplate 12. FIGS. 3D, 3E, and 3F are enlarged views of areas D, E, and F in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C, respectively, that more clearly show the flexible strip 42 and a hinge or flex point 16 at which the flexible strip 42 bends or deflects. According to various implementations, the flexible strip is a resilient member that both connects the edge plate 12 to the platform body 11 and biases the edge plate 12 toward the first plate position 36. At the same time, the resilient, flexible strip 42 resists or hinders movement (e.g., deflection) of the edge plate 12 in the second direction, away from the first plate position 36. In various cases the flexible strip 42 is a spring plate.

[0098] Additional implementations of the flexible attachment 15 include a flexible strip 42 similar to those discussed above. Some examples include the transfer platform 10 depicted in FIGS. 4A-4F, and the transfer platform illustrated in FIGS; 5A-5F. Returning to FIG. 1 D, the transfer platform 10 in this example includes multiple flexible attachments 15 that couple the plates 12 to the platform body 11. In this example each of the flexible attachments 15 includes a base 43 connected to multiple flexible strips 42 in the form of flexible spring fingers. In various implementations each base 43 supports three flexible strips 42, which are in turn fastened to the plates 12. In various cases the bases 43 may support another number of flexible strips 42. It will also be appreciated from the drawings that several additional implementations of the transfer platform 10 include flexible attachments 15 with a resilient member in the form of a base 43 supporting one or more flexible strips 42 attached to leading edge plates 12. Examples include the transfer platforms 10 depicted in FIGS. 14D, 18D, 22D, and 27A, among others.

[0099] Turning to FIGS. 6A-6C, in various implementations, the flexible attachment 15 includes a hinge 40 without a flexible strip 42. FIGS. 6A and 6B are partial top and side views, respectively, of such a transfer platform 10 with a leading edge plate 12 in a first position 36, according to an implementation. FIG. 6C is a side view of the same transfer platform 10 with the leading edge plate 12 in a second position 38, accordingto an implementation. FIGS. 6A-6C depict a mechanical hinge 40 coupled between the edge plate 12 and the platform body 11 . The hinge 40 in this case includes a first side 44 attached to the platform body 11 and a second side 46 attached to the edge plate 12. In various cases the hinge 40 defines a maximum hinge angle that limits the range of motion 30 away from the first plate position.

[0100] According to various implementations, the transfer platform 10 of FIGS. 6A-6C includes a resilient member that biases the plate 12 toward the first plate position 36. In various cases the resilient member is a spring 18 that acts on the hinge 40 to urge the edge plate 12 toward the first plate position 36. In some cases the spring 18 is a torsion spring.

[0101] Accordingto various implementations, the flexible attachment 15 includes a living hinge that connects the respective edge plate 12 to the platform body 11 . FIGS. 7A-7B are partial side views of a transfer platform 10 with a flexible attachment 15 that includes a living hinge 60. The living hinge 60 is a thin flexible connection made from the same material as the pieces that it connects. For example, in various cases the living hinge 60 is integral with, and formed from the same material as, the platform body 11 and / or the leading edge plate 12. In various cases the living hinge 60 may have first and second sides formed from the same material (e.g., a plastic), which in turn are attached to the platform body 11 and the edge plate 12.

[0102] As discussed elsewhere herein, various implementations of the disclosed technology include a mechanism or component configured to restrict or limit the range of motion in the second direction, away from the first plate position. In some cases this limiting is provided by a maximum hinge angle provided by a hinge forming at least part of a flexible attachment, as discussed elsewhere herein. Physical blocking or interference between components may also be used to limit the range of motion in the second direction in various cases. For example, in some cases projections or other structure of the edge plate and / or platform body may interfere after the edge plate deflects a certain amount in the second direction.

[0103] In various implementations the range of motion in the second direction is limited by a flexible material attached to both the platform body and the edge plate. FIGS. 4A-4F illustrate an example of such a flexible material 17. The flexible material 17 spans the hinge / flex point 16 and includes a first portion 70 that is attached to the platform body 11 and a second portion 72 attached to the leading edge plate 12. In various cases the flexible material 17 is a flexible (e.g., bendable) but non-elastic material, such as webbing. As the leading edge plate 12 deflects away from the first plate position 36, the flexible material 17 stops the plate 12 from further deflection as it tightens. In various implementations, the flexible material 17 may extend entirely across the length of the plate 12 from the platform body 11 to and around the distal end of the plate 12 as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C. In various cases the flexible material 17 may extend a shorter length, such as across the hinge / flex point 16 to attachment points with the platform body 11 and the plate 12 adjacent to the hinge / flex point 16.

[0104] FIGS. 5A-5F depict another configuration for a flexible material 17 according to various implementations. In this example, the flexible material 17 is formed from a compliant and somewhat elastic material that is used to cushion the platform body 11 and edge plate 12, thus increasing comfort for a patient. The flexible material 17 in this example is at least compliant in a direction normalto the surface of the platform body and plate. In various cases the flexible material 17 is non-elastic undertensile loads parallelto the platform body and plate surfaces. For example, the flexible material 17 may include a resilient cushioning layer atop a non-elastic substrate. As the plate 12 deflects away from the first plate position 36, the flexible material 17 stops the plate 12 from further deflection as it tightens.

[0105] As previously discussed, the platform body 11 and / or the leading edge plate 12 are configured such that the plate is able to deflect through a range of motion 30 that extends away from a first plate position in a first direction (e.g., generally parallel to the platform body) and that extends back toward the first plate position, but not beyond the first plate position 36. According to various implementations, the transfer platform 10 includes a mechanism or component configured to restrict or limit the range of motion in the first direction to the first plate position. In some cases this limiting is provided by a maximum hinge angle provided by a hinge forming at least part of a flexible attachment 15, as discussed elsewhere herein. Physical blocking or interference between components may also be used to limit the range of motion in the first direction in various cases. Referred to FIGS. 2D and 2E, in various cases the edge plate 12 has an end face 82 that physically contacts an end face 80 of the platform body 11 in the first plate position 36. Once in contact, the physical interference of the parts prevents the plate 12 from moving any further in the first direction.

[0106] FIGS. 8A-8C, 9A-9B, and 10A-10C illustrate examples of leading edge plates 12 of varying widths from the example transfer platform 10 depicted in FIGS. 1A-1 E. It will be appreciated that the plates 12 include an attachment portion 90 that is configured to be coupled with one end of a flexible attachment 15, such as one or more of the flexible strips 42 forming part of the flexible attachments 15 depicted in FIGS. 1 D. The plates 12 include multiple features described with respect to other various implementations that will not be repeated here. In addition, the examples in FIGS. 8A-8C, 9A-9B, and 10A-10C depict plates 12 that optionally include a fixed nose bar 14A or a roller 14B on the farthest end of the plate 12. The roller 14B and the nose bar 14A can be useful in reducing friction and facilitating movement of a conveyor belt wrapped about the platform 10.

[0107] FIGS. 8A-8C, 9A-9B, and 10A-10C also depict the plates in one or more adjacent pairs of plates. Various implementations include an adjacent flexible connection 19 between one or more adjacent pairs of plates, in order to limit relative displacement between the plates of each pair. Limiting the relative displacement in this way helps ensure that no single plate 12 will be deflected in excess when compared to adjacent plates. This reduces any relative differences in deflection between adjoining plates and overall provides a smoother transition between the plates, leading to a more comfortable experience for a patient.

[0108] According to various implementations, the adjacent flexible connection 19 is provided by a flexible (e.g., bendable without breaking) material sheet or strap. In various cases the material is non-elastic and in some cases includes a non-elastic webbing. Alternatively, some or all of the flexible connections 19 may optionally be provided by an elastic material, which may in some cases allow an even smoother transition between plates with the resilience of the connections 19 potentially respondingto smaller changes in force along a patient’s profile.

[0109] It will be appreciated that the adjacent flexible connections 19 may be provided between some, all, or none of the plates 12 within a leading edge 13. In addition, the flexible connections 19 may be permanently or removably attached to the plates 12. Typically the connections 19 are made on the bottom side of the plates 12, in order to reduce interference with operation of a conveyor traveling over the top side of the plates, though it is possible that adjacent connections 19 may still be provided on the top side of the plates in various cases.

[0110] In addition, the adjacent flexible connections 19 may be attached to the plates in multiple ways. In various cases, the connections 19 are attached to various parts of the plates. In some cases a single material strap may connect a series of multiple plates. In other cases several individual connections may be made between just two adjacent plates. The optional implementations illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8C, 9A-9B, and 10A-10C and in FIGS. 11A-21 B depict various configurations for several adjacent flexible connections 19. It will be appreciated that the flexible connections 19 in the depicted implementations are provided by webbing, though other materials may be used. In addition, the connections 19 are sometimes depicted out of scale to highlight the connections.

[0111] FIGS. 11A-11 B, 12A-12B, and 13A-13B are various views of the bottom and side of the transfer platform of FIGS. 1A-1 D according various implementations. As discussed elsewhere herein, in various cases the plates 12 making up a leading edge 13 can vary in width according to different implementations. In the examples shown in FIGS. 1 A-1 D and 11 A-11 B, 12A-12B, and 13A- 13B, the leading edges 13A, 13B are made up plates 12 of different widths. In particular, the plates have a narrow width near the center of the edge and wider widths closer to the ends of the edges 13A, 13B. In some cases the varying of plate widths can help accommodate different curvatures of a patient, thus making the leading edge more comfortable.

[0112] As will be appreciated, in various implementations the transfer platform 10 includes one or more upper leading edge, depicted in the figures as edges 13, 13A, and 13B, and also one or more lower leading edge 90, shown for example, in FIGS. 33A-33C. In various cases an upper conveyor is wrapped about the upper surface of the platform 10, including the one or more upper leading edges13, 13A, and 13B, for contacting and moving a patient. As shown in FIGS. 33A-33C, in a similar fashion, a lower conveyor can be wrapped about a bottom surface of the platform in contact with tower leading edge(s) 90. The lower conveyor and lower leading edges 90 contact the support surface and advance the platform under a patient as the upper conveyor contacts the patient.

[0113] FIGS. 11A-11 B, 12A-12B, and 13A-13B illustrate various different positions for the lower leading edge 90 on each side of the transfer platform 10 of FIGS. 1A-1 D according to various implementations. In these and other views the lower leading edges 90 are shown apart from the lower platform surface and lower conveyor, as will be appreciated. In addition, it should be noted that in some views the position of the lower leading edge 90 covers or obscures the bottom view of the plates 12 of the upper leading edges 13A, 13B.

[0114] FIGS. 14A-14D are perspective, top, side, and bottom views, respectively, of a patient transfer platform 10, accordingto various implementations. Accordingto this example, the platform 10 includes multiple plates 12 with a small, uniform width. FIGS. 15A-17B illustrate various different positions for the lower leading edge 90 on each side of the transfer platform 10 of FIGS. 14A-14D according to various implementations.

[0115] FIGS. 18A-18D are perspective, top, side, and bottom views, respectively, of a patient transfer platform 10, according to an implementation. According to this example, the platform 10 includes multiple plates 12 with a wide, uniform width. FIGS. 19A-21 B illustrate various different positions for the lower leading edge 90 on each side of the transfer platform 10 of FIGS. 14A-14D according to various implementations.

[0116] FIGS. 22A-22D are perspective, top, side, and bottom views, respectively, of another patient transfer platform 10, according to various implementations. According to this example, each of the upper leading edges 13A, 13B includes a single, platform length plate 12. The plates are connected to the platform body 11 on each side by separate rows of flexible attachments 15 in the form of spring plates. In this example each leading edge 13A, 13B also includes a row of rollers 14 along the outside edge of the plates 12, to reduce friction and improve operation of the conveyor. FIG. 23 is a perspective, bottom view of the platform 10 from FIGS. 22A-22D, showing a position for the lower leading edge 90 on each side of the transfer platform 10 according to various implementations.

[0117] Turning to FIGS. 22A-22D, several views of a transfer platform 10 are shown according to various implementations. In this example, the transfer platform 10 includes leading edges that have only a single edge plate 12. The edge plates 12 are flexibly attached to the transport body 11 withflexible attachments 15. In this case multiple flexible attachments 15 are used to connect each single plate to the platform body.

[0118] FIGS. 24A-24C and 25A-25C are various views of a patient transfer platform 10 with leading edges 13 formed from triangular-shaped edge plates 12 according to various implementations. FIGS. 24A-24C illustrate the plates 12 in a first plate position 36 arid FIGS. 25A-25C illustrate the plates 12 in a flexed / deflected second plate position 38. In various cases the plates 12 are attached to the platform body 11 with flexible attachments 15, such as any of those described with respect to other implementations. In particular, plates 12 that are positioned with a flat side adjacent to the platform body are flexibly attached to the platform body, while other plates 12 are only connected to adjacent plates 12 with an adjacent flexible connection 19, such as those described elsewhere herein. In various cases the flexible connections 19 are flexible and optionally resilient or non- resilient. According to various implementations, using triangular-shaped plates 12 in this fashion can provide a smoother leading edge with smaller and fewer gaps. This can also reduce the number of potential pinch points along the leading edge, leading to a safer and more comfortable transfer experience.

[0119] It should be appreciated that in various implementations, any combination of tessellating plates that allow for continuous adjoining edges to create a deformable plane may form a leading edge in much the same manner as the triangular example. For example, in some cases a tessellation may include one, two, or more geometric shapes, and each of the plates is formed as one of the shapes in the tessellation.

[0120] In various implementations, shown in FIGS. 26A-27B, the transfer platform 10 can be used with an active (e.g., electromechanically driven) device 20 for patient transfer. For example, in various cases one or more of electromechanically driven patient transfer devices may be adapted to incorporate one or more implementations of the transfer platform described herein. In such cases, the transfer device 20 generally includes a device body 100 that supports the transfer platform 10. Although not shown, the device 20 includes a control system that controls operation of the device. As shown in FIGS. 26A-26B, the device further includes at least one conveyor 110. Examples of such patient transfer devices include, but are not limited to, those described in US 2023 / 0277399, filed October 16, 2020, and entitled "Devices and Methods for Transferring an Object,” US 2024 / 0065908, filed January 12, 2022, and entitled "Devices and Methods for Transferring an Object,” US 11 ,628,111 , issued April 18, 2023, and entitled “Transfer Device with Platform Plate Having Two-Sided Functionality,” and WO 2023 / 184035, filed March 30, 2023, and entitled "Transfer Device and Control System,” each of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its respective entirety.

[0121] Turning to FIGS. 28A-28B, in alternative implementations, the platform 10 can be used with a passive device for patient transfer, such as a device that uses one or two endless conveyors — commonly referred as a transfer board 130. The transfer board includes a transfer platform 10 with two leading edges 13 such as one of those described elsewhere herein, along with a conveyor wrapped about the platform. In various cases the transfer board 130 includes one or more handles 140 attached at each end.

[0122] FIGS. 29A, 29B, 30A, and 30B are partial views of a leading edge 13 of a patient transfer platform, according to various implementations. As illustrated in the figures, the leading edge 13 has the features of various leading edges described elsewhere herein, including a platform body 11 and multiple edge plates 12 connected together with one or more flexible attachments.

[0123] As shown in FIGS. 29A-29B, in various cases the plates 12 may be flexibly attached to the platform body 11 in a manner that allows the plates to only move about a single axis. For example, in various cases a mechanical hinge is used to connect the plates 12 to the platform body. In some cases such a hinge enables rotation of the plates through a range of motion, but only while strictly rotating with respect to the hinge axis.

[0124] Turning to FIGS. 30A and 30B, in various implementations the flexible attachments connecting the plates 12 to the platform body 11 provide more degrees of freedom as the plates deflect through the range of motion. For example, in some cases the plates are flexibly connected to the platform body with a resilient member such as a spring plate. In addition to pitching or rotating about a transverse axis of the spring plate, the flexibility of the spring plate allows the edge plate 12 to roll about the longitudinal axis of the spring plate. Thus, as the plates deflect or move through the range of motion, the plates can both pitch and roll, resulting in more options forfine-tuning the edge profile to provide increased patient comfort.

[0125] FIGS. 31A-31 C are schematic views illustrating the behavior of a leading edge plate 12 in response to various forces, according to various implementations. As shown in FIG. 31 A, the plate 12 begins in the first plate position 36, which in some cases is a neutral or unadjusted position. As a first force 200 is placed on the plate in a second direction (e.g., downward in this example) in FIG. 31 B, the plate 12 moves or deflects through the range of motion 30 in the second direction away from the first plate position 36. In various cases the range of motion 30 may be limited or restricted in the second direction as discussed elsewhere herein. As shown in FIG. 31 C, as an opposite force 202 isplaced on the plate 12 in the first direction toward the first plate position 36, the plate can move through the range of motion 30 to the first plate position 36. At that point the plate can no longer move in the first direction.

[0126] Turning to FIGS. 32A and 32B, schematic views of a transfer platform 10 interacting with a patient support surface 300 are shown. In various implementations, as the transfer platform 10 is moved into contact with the patient support surface 300 (e.g., a mattress), the leading edge plate 12 is able to compress the support surface since upward forces from the support surface cannot move the plate upward past the first plate position in the range of motion. In cases involving a patient 302, the plate 12 is able to depress the support surface 300, but also deflect down through the range of motion to the extent that the patient’s weight overcomes the upward force from the support surface. Thus, the transfer platform 10 is provided with an asymmetrically acting leading edge capable of enhanced patient comfort.

[0127] FIGS. 33A-33C are schematic views of a patient transfer and transportation device 20 with a transfer platform 10 interacting with a patient 302 upon a support surface 300, according to an various implementations. FIG. 33A depicts the device 20 positioned nextto the support surface 300, which may be a patient bed or mattress, for example. The transfer platform 10 is extended underneath the patient 302, with the upper surface of the platform contacting the patient and the lower leading edge 90 against the support surface. FIG. 33B illustrates how the support surface 300 may exert an upward force upon the transfer platform and upper leading edge 90, but that the upper leading edge remains generally parallel to the transfer platform body since its range of motion only extends to the first plate position. FIG. 33C illustrates how a downward force from the weight of the patient can deflect the upper leading edge 13 downward away from the first plate position, as previously described in detail.

[0128] Although the disclosure has been described with reference to certain implementations and embodiments, persons skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed apparatus, systems and methods.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:1 . A patient transfer platform comprising: a generally rectangular platform body comprising first and second longitudinal sides; and one or more leading edges positioned alongthe first and / or second longitudinal sides, comprising: one or more plates located along the first or second longitudinal side of the platform body; and one or more flexible attachments coupling the one or more plates to the platform body, wherein each of the one or more plates comprises a range of motion with respect to the platform body, wherein the range of motion is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate of the one or more plates is generally parallel with the platform body, and wherein the range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position.

2. A patient transfer platform comprising: a generally rectangular platform body comprising first and second longitudinal sides; and a first leading edge positioned alongthe first longitudinal side, the first leading edge comprising: a plurality of plates located along the first longitudinal side of the platform body; and a plurality of flexible attachments coupling the plates to the platform body, wherein each of the plates comprises a range of motion with respect to the platform body, wherein the range of motion is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate is generally parallel with the platform body, and wherein the range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position.

3. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1 -2, wherein the first direction is upward toward the first plate position and the second direction is downward away from the first plate position.

4. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1-3, wherein each flexible attachment comprises a resilient member that biases the respective plate toward the first plate position.

5. The patient transfer platform of claim 4, wherein the resilient member comprises a spring.

6. The patient transfer platform of claim 5, wherein the spring comprises a torsion spring.

7. The patient transfer platform of claim 4, wherein the resilient member comprises a spring plate comprising a first portion attached to the platform body and a second portion attached to the respective plate.

8. The patient transfer platform of any of any of claims 1 -7, wherein each flexible attachment comprises a hinge coupling the platform body to the respective plate.

9. The patient transfer platform of claim 8, wherein the hinge comprises a maximum hinge angle that limits the range of motion in the second direction.

10. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 8-9, wherein the hinge comprises a living hinge.11 . The patient transfer platform of claim 10, wherein the living hinge is integral with one or more of the respective plate and the platform body.

12. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1 -11 , wherein each flexible attachment comprises a flexible material comprising a first portion attached to the platform body and a second portion attached to the respective plate, wherein the flexible material limits the range of motion in the second direction.

13. The patient transfer platform of claim 12, wherein the flexible material comprises webbing.

14. The patient transfer platform of claim 12, wherein the flexible material comprises a compliant layer.

15. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 12-14, wherein the flexible material is resilient.

16. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1 -15, wherein interference between the respective plate and the platform body limits the range of motion in the first direction to the first plate position.

17. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1 -16, wherein each of the plates comprises a width, and wherein the widths of the plates vary along the longitudinal edge of the platform.

18. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 2-17, wherein the plurality of plates form a plurality of adjacent pairs of plates, and further comprising an adjacent flexible connection between one or more of the adjacent pairs of plates, thereby limiting relative displacement between the one or more adjacent pairs of plates.

19. The patient transfer platform of claim 18, wherein the adjacent flexible connection comprises webbing.

20. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 18-19, wherein the adjacent flexible connection comprises a resilient material.21 . The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1 -20, wherein each of the plates comprises a generally rectangular shape.

22. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1 -20, wherein each of the plates comprises a generally triangular shape.

23. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1 -20, wherein each of the plates comprises a one of one or more geometric shapes of a tessellation, wherein the plates are flexibly connected to each other and to the platform body to form a deformable plane.

24. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1 -23, further comprising a compliant layer covering the platform body and the plates.

25. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1 -24, further comprising an endless conveyor belt wrapping about the platform body and the plates.

26. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1 -25, wherein the transfer platform is part of a manually operated patient transfer device.

27. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1-26, wherein the transfer platform is part of an electromechanically operated patient transfer device.

28. The patient transfer platform of any of claims 1 -27, further comprising a second leading edge positioned along the second longitudinal side, the second leading edge comprising: a plurality of plates located along the second longitudinal side of the platform body; and a plurality of flexible attachments coupling the plates to the platform body, wherein each of the plates comprises a range of motion with respect to the platform body, wherein the range of motion is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate is generally parallel with the platform body, and wherein the range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position.

29. A patient transfer device, comprising: a transfer platform comprising: a generally rectangular platform body comprisingfirst and second longitudinal sides and first and second lateral sides; a first leading edge located along the first longitudinal side, the first leading edge comprising: a plurality of plates located along the first longitudinal side; and a plurality of flexible attachments coupling the plates to the platform body, wherein each of the plates comprises a range of motion with respect to the platform body,wherein the range of motion is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate is generally parallel with the platform body, and wherein the range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position; a second leading edge located alongthe second longitudinal side, the second leading edge comprising: a plurality of plates located alongthe second longitudinal side; and a plurality of flexible attachments coupling the plates to the platform body, wherein each of the plates comprises a range of motion with respect to the platform body, wherein the range of motion is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate is generally parallel with the platform body, and wherein the range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position; an endless conveyor belt wrapped about the first leading edge, the platform body, and the second leading edge; one or more handles positioned at the first lateral side of the platform body; and one or more handles positioned at the second lateral side of the platform body.

30. A patient transfer device comprising: a device body; a transfer platform supported by the device body, the transfer platform comprising: a generally rectangular platform body comprising first and second longitudinal sides; a first leading edge positioned along the first longitudinal side, the first leading edge comprising: a plurality of plates located along the first longitudinal side of the platform body; and a plurality of flexible attachments coupling the plates to the platform body, wherein each of the plates comprises a range of motion with respect to the platform body, wherein the range of motion is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate is generally parallel with the platform body, andwherein the range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position; a conveyor belt wrapped about the transfer platform; and a control system configured to control operation of the transfer platform and conveyor belt.31 . The patient transfer device of claim 30, wherein the transfer platform comprises a second leading edge positioned along the second longitudinal side, the second leading edge comprising: a plurality of plates located along the second longitudinal side of the platform body; and a plurality of flexible attachments coupling the plates to the platform body, wherein each of the plates comprises a range of motion with respect to the platform body, wherein the range of motion is bounded in a first direction by a first plate position in which a respective plate is generally parallel with the platform body, and wherein the range of motion extends in a second direction away from the first plate position.

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