Push-pull self-tunneling belts, seats, and slings

Abstract

Disclosed are eversible tube-based systems for controlled extension and retraction with integrated belts. The system includes a chamber with a fluid port and an inside winch powered by a power supply. Outside winches spool outside belts, while the inside winch spools inside belts, each connected to the eversible tube's tip(s). During extension, fluid inflow inflates the tube, and outside belts retract on the outside spool. During retraction, the tube deflates, and the inside belts retract onto the inside spool. Various embodiments feature different tube geometries (Y-shaped, triangular, rectangular, quadrant). Certain systems incorporate hinged frames, such as wheelchairs, to enclose and support patients; others act as hoists or self-tunneling slings. Pump- driven fluid supply and integrated locks secure belts in fully extended or retracted positions. These solutions provide adaptable, fluid-driven structures for medical and industrial applications under varying load and spatial constraints.

Description

PUSH-PULL SELF-TUNNELING BELTS, SEATS, AND SLINGSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 569,176, filed March 24, 2024, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.STATEMENT OF GOVERNMENT INTEREST

[0002] This invention was made with government support under Grant No. ITE-2344314 awarded by the National Science Foundation. The Government has certain rights in the invention.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates generally to the field of medical mobility devices.More specifically, the present invention is related to push-pull self-tunneling belts, seats, and slings.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] A previous embodiment to place belts beneath the body of a human subject lying on a surface using an eversion mechanism. There are two problems and drawbacks in the previous embodiment that may prevent a successful use of the technology. First, the selftunneling direction may vary depending on the distribution of the pressure underneath the body of the human subject. Unless the growing tip is navigated or controlled actively, the self-tunneling direction can be erratic, or the eversion may get stuck in the middle of the process. Second, the hook attached to the endpoint of the tubular structure is not easy to secure reliably. Unless the hook is actively searched and captured, the hook location is uncertain and is difficult to secure to a fixture. These problems and drawbacks are solved with the new design concept described herein.

[0005] Embodiments of the present invention are an improvement over prior art systems and methods.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] This Summary introduces a selection of concepts in simplified form that are described further below in the Detailed Description. This Summary neither identifies key or essential features, nor limits the scope, of the claimed subject matter.

[0007] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a system comprising: (a) a power source (124); (b) an inside winch (104); (c) a first outside winch (112); (d) a chamber (102) having a port (120) for fluid flow and containing the inside winch (104) located within the chamber; (e) an eversible tube (106) having a fixed proximal end (118) proximate to the chamber (102) and a distal end (116) that extends away from the chamber (102), wherein the eversible tube (106) having a tip (114) located at the distal end (116) of the eversible tube (106); (f) an inside belt (108) attached at one end to the inside winch (104) and is attached at another end to the tip (114); (g) an outside belt (110) attached at another end to the tip (114) and is attached at an opposite end to the first outside winch (112); wherein the power source (124) is configured to operate the inside winch (104) to wind the inside belt (108) around an inside spool (126), and the first outside winch (112) is configured to wind the outside belt (110) around an outside spool (128); wherein, during an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port (120) to extend the distal end (116) of the eversible tube (106) until the tip (114) is moved to a first predetermined position towards the first outside winch (112), where a displaced outside belt (110) is wound in the outside spool (128) based on power supplied by the power source (124); and wherein, during a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port (120) to retract the distal end (116) of the eversible tube (106) until the tip (114) is moved to a second predetermined position towards the inside winch (104), where a displaced inside belt (108) is wound in the inside spool (128) based on power supplied by the power source (124).

[0008] In one embodiment, a pump (122) is connected to the port (120) to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

[0009] In one embodiment, the fluid flowing via port (120) is air.

[0010] In one embodiment, the power source (124) is a battery.

[0011] In one embodiment, the power source (124) incorporates a power supply, a drive amplifier and a velocity regulator.

[0012] By way of example and not limitation, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the power source may incorporate elements like a drive amplifier and a velocity regulator for controlling the actuator’s motion. Such power supply arrangements are well known and are therefore considered within the spirit and scope of the present invention, even though they are not separately illustrated in the accompanying figures.

[0013] In one embodiment, the system further comprises: a first winch lock (302) securing the inside belt (108) when the eversible tube (106) is fully retracted; and a second winch lock (304) securing the outside belt (110) when the eversible tube (106) is fully extended.

[0014] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a system comprising: (a) a power source (402); (b) an inside winch (404); (c) a first outside winch (408); (d) a second outside winch (410); (e) a chamber (412) having a port (414) for fluid flow and containing the inside winch (404) located within the chamber; (f) a Y-shaped eversible tube (416) having a fixed proximal end (418) proximate to the chamber (412) and a first distal end (420) that extends away from and above a midpoint of the chamber (412) and a second distal end (422) that extends away from and below the midpoint of the chamber (412), wherein the eversible tube (416) having a first tip (424) located at the first distal end (420) of the eversible tube (416) and wherein the eversible tube (416) having a second tip (426) located at the second distal end (422) of the eversible tube (416); (g) a first inside belt (428) attached at one end to the inside winch (404) and is attached at another end to the first tip (424); (h) a second inside belt (430) attached at one end to the inside winch (404) and is attached at another end to the second tip (426); (i) a first outside belt (432) attached at one end to the first tip (424) and is attached at another end to the first outside winch(408); (j) a second outside belt (434) attached at one end to the second tip (426) and is attached at another end to the second outside winch (410); wherein the power source (402) is configured to operate the inside winch (404) to wind the first and second inside belts (428, 430) around an inside spool (436), and the first outside winch (408) is configured to wind the first outside belt (432) around a first outside spool (440) and the second outside winch (410) is configured to wind the second outside belt (434) around a second outside spool (442); wherein, during an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port (414) to extend the first and second distal ends (420, 422) of the eversible tube (416) until the first tip (424) is moved to a first predetermined position towards the first outside winch (408) and the second tip (426) is moved to a second predetermined position towards the second outside winch (410), where a displaced first outside belt (432) is wound in the first outside spool (440) based on power supplied by the power source (402), and where a displaced second outside belt (434) is wound in the second outside spool (442) based on power supplied by the power source (402); and wherein, during a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port (414) to retract the first and second distal ends (420, 422) of the eversible tube (416) until the first and second tips (424, 426) are moved towards the inside winch (404), where a displaced first inside belt (428) and a second inside belt (430) are wound in the inside spool (436) based on power supplied by the power source (402).

[0015] In one embodiment, the system comprises a pump (444) that is connected to the port (414) to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

[0016] In one embodiment, the fluid flowing via port (414) is air.

[0017] In one embodiment, the power source (402) is a battery.

[0018] In one embodiment, the power source (124) incorporates a power supply, a drive amplifier and a velocity regulator.

[0019] In one embodiment, the system further comprises: a first winch lock (446) securing the first and second inside belts (428, 430) when the eversible tube (416) is fully retracted; and a third winch lock (450) and a fourth winch lock (452) securing the first and second outside belts (432, 434) when the eversible tube (416) is fully extended.

[0020] In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a system comprising: (a) a power source (456); (b) an inside winch (458); (c) an outside winch (472); (d) a chamber (478) having a port (480) for fluid flow and containing the inside winch (448) located within the chamber (478); (e) a triangular eversible tube (484) having a fixed proximal end (486) proximate to the chamber (478) and a distal end (488) that extends away from the chamber (478), wherein the triangular eversible tube (484) having a tip (468) located at the distal end (488) of the eversible tube (484); (f) a first inside belt (462), a second inside belt (464), and a third inside belt (466), the first inside belt (462), the second inside belt (464), and the third inside belt (466) attached at one end to the inside winch (458) and is attached at another end to the tip (468); (g) an outside belt (470) attached at one end to the tip (468) and is attached at another end to the outside winch (472); wherein the power source (456) is configured to operate the inside winch (458) to wind the first, second and third inside belts (462, 464, and 466) around an inside spool (460), and the outside winch (472) is configured to wind the outside belt (470) around an outside spool (476); wherein, during an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port (480) to extend the distal end (488) of the eversible tube (484) until the tip (468) is moved to a first predetermined position towards the outside winch (472), where a displaced outside belt (470) is wound in the outside spool (476) based on power supplied by the power source (456); and wherein, during a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port (480) to retract the distal end (488) of the eversible tube (484) until the tip (468) is moved to a second predetermined position towards the inside winch (458), where adisplaced first, second and third inside belts (462, 464, and 466) are wound in the inside spool (460) based on power supplied by the power source (456).

[0021] In one embodiment, the system comprises a pump (482) that is connected to the port (480) to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

[0022] In one embodiment, the fluid flowing via port (480) is air.

[0023] In one embodiment, the power source (456) is a battery.

[0024] In one embodiment, the power source (124) incorporates a power supply, a drive amplifier and a velocity regulator.

[0025] In one embodiment, the system further comprises: a first winch lock (490) securing the first, second and third inside belts (462, 464, and 466) when the eversible tube (484) is fully retracted; and a second winch lock (474) securing the outside belt (470) when the eversible tube (484) is fully extended.

[0026] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a system comprising: (a) a first U-shaped frame, wherein the first U-shaped frame has a hinge (606) that connects a L-shaped frame member (602) with a straight frame member (604), wherein the hinge (606) enables the first U-shaped frame to transition between a closed U-shaped configuration and an open extended L-shaped configuration; (b) a second U-shaped frame (616), the second U-shaped frame (616) part of a chair, a portion of the second U-shaped frame attached to an underside of the straight frame member (604), the first U-shaped frame and second U-shaped frame (616) enclosing a rectangular area, wherein the open extended L-shaped configuration allows for a patient to be positioned within the rectangular area, after which the first U-shaped frame is moved to the closed U-shaped configuration; (c) a power source (608); (d) an inside winch located inside a chamber (610) having a port for fluid flow, the chamber with the inside winch (610) located within the straight frame member (604); (e) a rectangular eversible tube (614) having a first side that is parallel to the straight frame member (604), a second side and a third side, eachextending parallel to respective portions of the L-shaped frame member (602), and a fourth side that extends parallel to a horizontal portion of the second U-shaped frame (616); (f) a plurality of outside winches (612) located inside the L-shaped frame member (602), wherein each of the plurality of outside winches (612) has an associated tip that: (1) connects an inside belt with the inside winch, and (2) connects an outside belt with a corresponding outside winch in the plurality of outside winches (612); wherein the power source (608) is configured to operate the inside winch to wind inside belts around an inside spool, and each outside winch in the plurality of outside winches (612) is configured to wind a corresponding outside belt around its spool; wherein, during an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port to extend a distal end of the eversible tube (614) until corresponding tips are moved to their predetermined positions towards their corresponding outside winches; and wherein, during a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port to retract the distal end of the eversible tube (614) until corresponding tips are moved to their predetermined positions towards the inside winch.

[0027] In one embodiment, the system comprises a pump that is connected to the port to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

[0028] In one embodiment, the fluid flowing via port is air.

[0029] In one embodiment, the power source (608) is a battery.

[0030] In one embodiment, the power source (124) incorporates a power supply, a drive amplifier and a velocity regulator.

[0031] In one embodiment, the chair is a wheelchair.

[0032] In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a system comprising: (a) a power source (720); (b) a U-shaped frame (710), the U-shaped frame (710) part of a chair, (c) a first L-shaped frame (702) comprising a first segment and a second segment connected via a first hinge (704), wherein a first outside winch (714) is located at the first hinge (704), and wherein an underside of a first segment is attached to a portion of the U-shaped frame (710), and wherein the first segment having a first chamber having within it a first inside winch (712), and wherein the first hinge (704) enables the first L-shaped frame to transition between a first closed L-shaped configuration and a first open extended straight configuration; (d) a second L-shaped frame (706) comprising a third segment and a fourth segment connected via a second hinge (708), wherein a second outside winch (716) is located at the second hinge (708), and wherein an underside of a third segment is attached to another portion of the U-shaped frame (710), the third segment having a second chamber having within it a second inside winch (718), and wherein the second hinge (708) enables the second L-shaped frame to transition between a second closed L- shaped configuration and a second open extended straight configuration, the first L- shaped frame (702), the second L-shaped frame (706) and the U-shaped frame (710) enclosing a rectangular area, wherein the first and second open extended straight configurations allows for a patient to be positioned within the rectangular area, after which the second and fourth segments are moved to the closed L-shaped configurations; (e) a first eversible tube having a first quadrant shape (730) and having the first tip located thereon, wherein a first inside belt is connected on one side to the first inside winch (712) and another side to the first tip and a first outside belt is connected on one side to the first tip and on another side to the first outside winch (714); (f) a second eversible tube having a second quadrant shape (732) and having the second tip located thereon, wherein a second inside belt is connected on one side to the second inside winch (718) and another side to a second tip and a second outside belt is connected on one side to the second tip and on another side to the second outside winch (716); and wherein, during a first extension operation, fluid is supplied via a first port to extend the first eversible tube until the first tip is moved to a predetermined position towards the second segment to form the first quadrant shape (730); and wherein, during a second extension operation, fluid is supplied via a second port to extend the second eversible tube until the second tip ismoved to a predetermined position towards the fourth segment to form the second quadrant shape (732); wherein, during a first retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the first port to retract the first eversible tube until the first tip is moved proximate to the first segment; and wherein, during a second retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the second port to retract the second eversible tube until the second tip is moved proximate to the third segment.

[0033] In one embodiment, the system comprises a pump that is connected to the port to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

[0034] In one embodiment, the fluid flowing via port is air.

[0035] In one embodiment, the power source (720) is a battery.

[0036] In one embodiment, the chair is a wheelchair.

[0037] In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a device for lifting a subject, the device comprising: (a) a hoist (802) having a first hanger (803); (b) a first outside winch (810); (c) a second outside winch (812); (e) a chamber (808) having a power source, a port for fluid flow in and out of the chamber (808), and an inside winch located within the chamber; (f) a Y-shaped eversible tube (818) having a fixed proximal end (814) proximate to the chamber (808) and a first distal end (815) that extends forward and away, in one direction, from a midpoint of the chamber (808) and a second distal end (816) that extends forward and away, in an opposite direction to the one direction, from the midpoint of the chamber (808), wherein the Y-shaped eversible tube (818) having a first tip (820) located at the first distal end (815) of the eversible tube (818) and wherein the eversible tube (818) having a second tip (822) located at the second distal end (816) of the eversible tube (818); (g) a first inside belt (824) attached at one end to the inside winch and is attached at another end to the first tip (820); (h) a second inside belt (826) attached at one end to the inside winch and is attached at another end to the second tip (822); (i) a first outside belt (828) attached at one end to the first tip (820) and is attached at another endto the first outside winch (810); (j) a second outside belt (830) attached at one end to the second tip (822) and is attached at another end to the second outside winch (812); wherein the power source is configured to operate the inside winch to wind the first and second inside belts (824, 826) around an inside spool, and the first outside winch (810) is configured to wind the first outside belt (828) around a first outside spool (832) and the second outside winch (812) is configured to wind the second outside belt (830) around a second outside spool (834); wherein, during an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port to extend the first and second distal ends (815, 816) of the eversible tube (818) until the first tip (820) is moved to a first predetermined position towards the first outside winch (810) and the second tip (822) is moved to a second predetermined position towards the second outside winch (812), where a displaced first outside belt (828) is wound in the first outside spool (832) based on power supplied by the power source, and where a displaced second outside belt (830) is wound in the second outside spool (834) based on power supplied by the power source; and wherein, during a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port to retract the first and second distal ends (815, 816) of the eversible tube (818) until the first and second tips (820, 822) are moved towards the inside winch, where a displaced first inside belt (824) and a second inside belt (826) are wound in the inside spool based on power supplied by the power source.

[0038] In one embodiment, the system comprises a pump that is connected to the port to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

[0039] In one embodiment, the fluid flowing via port is air.

[0040] In one embodiment, the power source is a battery.

[0041] In one embodiment, the system is a push-pull self-tunneling sling configured to lift a patient.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0042] The present disclosure, in accordance with one or more various examples, is described in detail with reference to the following figures. The drawings are provided for purposes of illustration only and merely depict examples of the disclosure. These drawings are provided to facilitate the reader's understanding of the disclosure and should not be considered limiting of the breadth, scope, or applicability of the disclosure. It should be noted that for clarity and ease of illustration these drawings are not necessarily made to scale.

[0043] FIG. 1 shows Push-Pull Self-Tunneling Belt system.

[0044] FIGS. 2A and 2B show Retraction (A) and extension (B) of Push-Pull Self Tunneling Belt system.

[0045] FIGS. 3A and 3B show Locking of belts.

[0046] FIG. 4A shows Branched push-pull self-tunneling belt system.

[0047] FIG. 4B shows Push-Pull Self-Tunneling Seat.

[0048] FIG. 5 shows Push-Pull Self-Tunneling of Seat Tube beneath buttocks.

[0049] FIG. 6A shows the Push-Pull Self-Tunneling Seat system is installed under the arm rest on one side of the wheelchair and a L-shaped back door (Back Door).

[0050] FIG. 6B shows Back Door is opened.

[0051] FIG. 6C shows Wheelchair can be docked to the bed.

[0052] FIG. 6D shows Back Door is closed so that the Wheelchair can surround the subject sitting at the edge of the bed.

[0053] FIG. 6E shows Seat system is inflated so that the Seat Tube can go beneath the buttocks of the subject.

[0054] FIG. 6F shows Outside Winches pull the Outside Belts so that the Seat Tube may be fully deployed across the subject’s buttocks.

[0055] FIG. 6G shows Wheelchair leaves the bed, and the subject is carried by the Wheelchair.

[0056] FIG. 7A shows a Wheelchair that can be docked to a bed has a Double Door at the back.

[0057] FIG. 7B shows Double Door is opened, the Wheelchair is docked to a bed.

[0058] FIG. 7C shows the Double Door is closed.

[0059] FIG. 7D shows one side of the Seat Tube is inflated and deployed beneath the buttocks of the subject.

[0060] FIG. 7E shows the process of the deployment of the Seat Tube and Inner Belts is repeated for the other side of the Wheelchair.

[0061] FIG. 7F shows the Wheelchair leaves the bed and the subject is carried by the Wheelchair.

[0062] FIG. 8A shows the hoist equipped with the Autonomous Sling.

[0063] FIG. 8B shows a hoist is carried to a bed where a subject is lying, and the Unit is placed between the crotch of the subject.

[0064] FIG. 8C shows the Branched Sling system is deployed with air pressure and the Outside Belts pulling the Tips of the Sling.

[0065] FIG. 8D shows Outside Winches placed at the hanger wind up the Outside Belts to lift the subject.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0001] While this invention is illustrated and described in a preferred embodiment, the invention may be produced in many different configurations. There is depicted in the drawings, and will herein be described in detail, a preferred embodiment of the invention, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and the associated functional specifications for its construction and is not intended to limit the invention to theembodiment illustrated. Those skilled in the art will envision many other possible variations within the scope of the present invention.

[0002] The following Detailed Description references the accompanying drawings which form a part this application, and which show, by way of illustration, specific example implementations. Other implementations may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0003] Note that in this description, references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” mean that the feature being referred to is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Further, separate references to “one embodiment” in this description do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment; however, neither are such embodiments mutually exclusive, unless so stated and except as will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Thus, the present invention can include any variety of combinations and / or integrations of the embodiments described herein.

[0004] The design described herein uses two cables inside and outside the self-tunneling soft tubular sheet. The tip of the double-layered tube is not only pushed from the inside due to the pressure of the tube but can also be pulled from outside with another winch. Coordinating the push and pull movements, the self-tunneling structure can extend more stably and reliably.

[0005] Furthermore, the push-pull, self-tunneling mechanism can be applied to two specific scenario cases. One is to apply it to a hoist for lifting a subject and the other is to integrate it into a special wheelchair. In the former, the push-pull self-tunneling system can replace the sling of a hoist, so that the equipment can be attached to the subject autonomously. In the latter, the push-pull self-tunneling system is used for placing a seat beneath the buttocks of a subject sitting on the edge of a bed. This allows the subject to move from the bed to a wheelchair without being lifted; the subject can be transferred directly from the bed to a wheelchair.

[0006] A device, called a Push-Pull Self-Tunneling Belt System, consists of an inside outside eversible tubular sheet, two belts, two winches, an air pressure source, and a controller. At its fully extended configuration shown in FIG. 1 , one belt, called an inside belt, is attached to the tip of the tube from inside, and the other belt, called an outside belt, is connected to the same tip but from outside. One of the two winches is installed inside the air chamber, called an inside winch. The inside winch winds the inside belt around its spool. The outside winch winds the outside belt around its spool.

[0007] As the inside winch winds the inside belt and the outside winch unwinds the outside belt, the eversible tube is retracted and the air in the tube is pushed out or exhausted. The tube is everted in this process. The process is reversed by supplying air into the tube, unwinding the inside belt, and winding the outside belt.

[0008] As the outer diameter of the tube is fixed, the tube can extend only at the extending tip. As a result, the inside belt attached to the tip of the tube is pulled towards the extending tip. The outside belt attached to the same tip of the tube can also pull the inside belt and help the eversible tube to extend towards the fully extended configuration.

[0009] In one embodiment, the tip of the inside and / or outside winches have locking mechanisms so that the inside and outside belts can be secured at both ends. As the eversible tube is fully extended, the tip comes out of the eversible tube, and the inside belt is locked with a fixture by pulling the outside belt further towards the outside winch. The tip may be secured to the fixture by feeding the tip towards a funnel.

[0010] FIG. 1 , FIGS. 2A-B, and FIGS. 3A-B depict one such embodiment. In this embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 1 , the present invention provides a system comprising: (a) a power source (124), (b) an inside winch (104), (c) a first outside winch (112), (d) a chamber (102), (e) an eversible tube (106), (f) an inside belt (108), and (g) an outside belt (110). The power source (124) powers the winches to control the rotational displacement of their spools so that the length of the belt can be controlled on each side.

[0011] The chamber (102) has a port (120) for fluid flow and contains the inside winch (104) within the chamber. The eversible tube (106) has a fixed proximal end (118) proximate to the chamber (102) and a distal end (116) that extends away from the chamber (102), wherein the eversible tube (106) has a tip (114) located at the distal end (116) of the eversible tube (106). The inside belt (108) attaches at one end to the inside winch (104) and attaches at another end to the tip (114). The outside belt (110) attaches at one end to the tip (114) and attaches at an opposite end to the first outside winch (112).

[0012] The power source (124) is configured to operate the inside winch (104) to wind the inside belt (108) around an inside spool (126), and the first outside winch (112) is configured to wind the outside belt (110) around an outside spool (128).

[0013] During an extension operation, as depicted in FIG. 2B and FIGS. 3A-B, fluid is supplied via the port (120) to extend the distal end (116) of the eversible tube (106) until the tip (114) is moved to a first predetermined position towards the first outside winch (112), where a displaced outside belt (110) is wound in the outside spool (128) based on power supplied by the power source (124). FIG. 3B illustrates the fully extended inside belt.

[0014] During a retraction operation, as depicted in FIG. 2A, fluid is exhausted via the port (120) to retract the distal end (116) of the eversible tube (106) until the tip (114) is moved to a second predetermined position towards the inside winch (104), where a displaced inside belt (108) is wound in the inside spool (128) based on power supplied by the power source (124).

[0015] In one embodiment, a pump (122) is connected to the port (120) to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

[0016] In one embodiment, the fluid flowing via port (120) is air.

[0017] In one embodiment, the power source (124) is a battery.

[0018] In one embodiment, the power source (124) is a general power supply, including a battery.

[0019] In one embodiment, the power source (124) incorporates a power supply, a drive amplifier and a velocity regulator.

[0020] It should be noted that various examples of power sources are provided as exemplary instances. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the power source may comprise other well-known power supply arrangements, with such arrangements still being within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0021] In one embodiment, the eversible tube is made of a sealable sheet such as a Thermoplastic Polyurethane-coated (TPU-coated) nylon ripstop fabric. In one embodiment, the belts are a standard nylon twisted pull rope cord, and the tip is where the two ropes, inside and outside, and the eversible tube are tied together.

[0022] In one embodiment, the system further comprises: a first winch lock (302) securing the inside belt (108) when the eversible tube (106) is fully retracted; and a second winch lock (304) securing the outside belt (110) when the eversible tube (106) is fully extended.

[0023] In one embodiment, the eversible tube has plural branches with independent outside winches that wind and unwind plural outside belts, respectively.

[0024] FIG. 4A depicts one such embodiment. In this embodiment, the present invention provides a system comprising: (a) a power source (402), (b) an inside winch (404), (c) a first outside winch (408), (d) a second outside winch (410), (e) a chamber (412), (f) a Y- shaped eversible tube (416), (g) a first inside belt (428), (h) a second inside belt (430), (i) a first outside belt (432), and (j) a second outside belt (434). It should be noted that while the embodiment described notes the use of a single inside winch (404), the use of two winches is also contemplated (one per inside belt).

[0025] The chamber (412) has a port (414) for fluid flow and contains the inside winch (404). The Y-shaped eversible tube (416) has a fixed proximal end (418) proximate to thechamber (412) and a first distal end (420) extending away from and above a midpoint of the chamber (412), and a second distal end (422) extending away from and below the midpoint of the chamber (412).

[0026] The eversible tube (416) has a first tip (424) at the first distal end (420) and a second tip (426) at the second distal end (422).

[0027] The first inside belt (428) attaches at one end to the inside winch (404) and at the other end to the first tip (424). The second inside belt (430) attaches at one end to the inside winch (404) and at the other end to the second tip (426). The first outside belt (432) attaches at one end to the first tip (424) and at the other end to the first outside winch (408). The second outside belt (434) attaches at one end to the second tip (426) and at the other end to the second outside winch (410).

[0028] The power source (402) operates the inside winch (404) to wind the first and second inside belts (428, 430) around an inside spool (436). The first outside winch (408) winds the first outside belt (432) around a first outside spool (440), and the second outside winch (410) winds the second outside belt (434) around a second outside spool (442).

[0029] During an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port (414) to extend the first and second distal ends (420, 422) of the eversible tube (416) until the first tip (424) moves to a first predetermined position towards the first outside winch (408) and the second tip (426) moves to a second predetermined position towards the second outside winch (410). At that point, a displaced first outside belt (432) is wound on the first outside spool (440), and a displaced second outside belt (434) is wound on the second outside spool (442), based on power from the power source (402).

[0030] During a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port (414) to retract the first and second distal ends (420, 422) until the first and second tips (424, 426) move towards the inside winch (404). A displaced first inside belt (428) and second inside belt (430) are then wound on the inside spool (436), based on power from the power source (402).

[0031] In one embodiment, the system comprises a pump (444) that is connected to the port (414) to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

[0032] In one embodiment, the fluid flowing via port (414) is air.

[0033] In one embodiment, the power source (402) is a battery.

[0034] In one embodiment, the power source (124) is a general power supply, including a battery.

[0035] In one embodiment, the power source (124) incorporates a power supply, a drive amplifier and a velocity regulator.

[0036] It should be noted that various examples of power sources are provided as exemplary instances. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the power source may comprise other well-known power supply arrangements, with such arrangements still being within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0037] In one embodiment, the eversible tube is made of a sealable sheet such as a Thermoplastic Polyurethane-coated (TPU-coated) nylon ripstop fabric. In one embodiment, the belts are a standard nylon twisted pull rope cord, and the tip is where the two ropes, inside and outside, and the eversible tube are tied together.

[0038] In one embodiment, the system further comprises: a first winch lock (446) securing the first and second inside belts (428, 430) when the eversible tube (416) is fully retracted; and a third winch lock (450) and a fourth winch lock (452) securing the first and second outside belts (432, 434) when the eversible tube (416) is fully extended.

[0039] FIG. 4B depicts another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the present invention provides a system comprising: (a) a power source (456), (b) an inside winch (458), (c) an outside winch (472), (d) a chamber (478), (e) a triangular eversible tube (484), (f) a first inside belt (462), a second inside belt (464), and a third inside belt (466), and (g) an outside belt (470). It should be noted that while the embodiment described notes the use of a single inside winch (458), the use of threewinches is also contemplated (one per inside belt). The particular number of inside winches used should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0040] The chamber (478) has a port (480) for fluid flow and contains the inside winch (448) located within the chamber (478). The triangular eversible tube (484) has a fixed proximal end (486) proximate to the chamber (478) and a distal end (488) that extends away from the chamber (478). The triangular eversible tube (484) has a tip (468) located at the distal end (488).

[0041] The first inside belt (462), the second inside belt (464), and the third inside belt (466) attach at one end to the inside winch (458) and attach at another end to the tip (468). The outside belt (470) attaches at one end to the tip (468) and at another end to the outside winch (472).

[0042] The power source (456) is configured to operate the inside winch (458) to wind the first, second, and third inside belts (462, 464, 466) around an inside spool (460). The outside winch (472) is configured to wind the outside belt (470) around an outside spool (476).

[0043] During an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port (480) to extend the distal end (488) of the eversible tube (484) until the tip (468) is moved to a first predetermined position towards the outside winch (472). At that position, a displaced outside belt (470) is wound in the outside spool (476), based on power supplied by the power source (456).

[0044] During a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port (480) to retract the distal end (488) of the eversible tube (484) until the tip (468) is moved to a second predetermined position towards the inside winch (458). At that position, a displaced first, second, and third inside belts (462, 464, 466) are wound in the inside spool (460), based on power supplied by the power source (456).

[0045] In one embodiment, the system comprises a pump (482) that is connected to the port (480) to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

[0046] In one embodiment, the fluid flowing via port (480) is air.

[0047] In one embodiment, the power source (456) is a battery.

[0048] In one embodiment, the power source (456) is a general power supply, including a battery.

[0049] In one embodiment, the power source (456) incorporates a power supply, a drive amplifier and a velocity regulator.

[0050] It should be noted that various examples of power sources are provided as exemplary instances. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the power source may comprise other well-known power supply arrangements, with such arrangements still being within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0051] In one embodiment, the eversible tube is made of a sealable sheet such as a Thermoplastic Polyurethane-coated (TPU-coated) nylon ripstop fabric. In one embodiment, the belts are a standard nylon twisted pull rope cord, and the tip is where the two ropes, inside and outside, and the eversible tube are tied together.

[0052] In one embodiment, the system further comprises: a first winch lock (490) securing the first, second and third inside belts (462, 464, and 466) when the eversible tube (484) is fully retracted; and a second winch lock (474) securing the outside belt (470) when the eversible tube (484) is fully extended.

[0053] Push-Pull Self-Tunneling Seat

[0054] The Push Pull Self-Tunneling Seat system is integrated into a wheelchair that is docked to a bed and other surfaces where a subject sits. This system allows the subject to transfer to the wheelchair without being lifted. The Push-Pull Self-Tunneling Seat system (Seat system) goes beneath the buttocks of the subject, supports the upper bodyfrom beneath, and allows the subject to move out of the bed as the wheelchair departs from the bed (FIG. 5).

[0055] As shown in FIG. 6A, the Push-Pull Self- Tunneling Seat system is installed under the arm rest on one side of the wheelchair and a L-shaped back door (Back Door), which rotates around a Hinge fixed to the arm rest frame on the same side. The Seat system consists of an Inside Winch with an Air Chamber, a Seat Tube, plural Inside Belts, plural Outside Belts, each of which is connected to an Outside Winch. The Outside Winches are housed in the Back Door with the Outside Belts connecting the Outside Winches to the Tips of the Seat Tube. First, the Back Door is opened (FIG. 6B) so that the Wheelchair can be docked to the bed (FIG. 6C). After the Wheelchair is fully docked, the Back Door is closed so that the Wheelchair can surround the subject sitting at the edge of the bed (FIG. 6D). The Seat system is inflated so that the Seat Tube can go beneath the buttocks of the subject (FIG. 6E). At this time the Outside Winches pull the Outside Belts so that the Seat Tube may be fully deployed across the subject’s buttocks (FIG. 6F).

[0056] Throughout this process, the Inside Belts are placed beneath the buttocks and connected to the arm rest frame on the other side of the Wheelchair. The Inside Belts are secured at the Tips of the Seat Tube. After securely installing the Seat system, the Wheelchair leaves the bed, and the subject is carried by the Wheelchair (FIG. 6G).

[0057] In the embodiment of FIGS. 6A-G the present invention provides a system comprising: (a) a first U-shaped frame; (b) a second U-shaped frame (616); (c) a power source (608); (d) an inside winch; (e) a rectangular eversible tube (614); (f) a plurality of outside winches (612).

[0058] The first U-shaped frame has a hinge (606) that connects a L-shaped frame member (602) with a straight frame member (604), wherein the hinge (606) enables the first U-shaped frame to transition between a closed U-shaped configuration and an open extended L-shaped configuration.

[0059] The second U-shaped frame (616) is part of a chair. A portion of the second U- shaped frame (616) attaches to an underside of the straight frame member (604). The first U-shaped frame and second U-shaped frame (616) enclose a rectangular area, wherein the open extended L-shaped configuration allows for a patient to be positioned within the rectangular area (as shown in FIG. 6C), after which the first U-shaped frame is moved to the closed U-shaped configuration (as shown in FIG. 6D).

[0060] The inside winch is located inside a chamber (610) having a port for fluid flow, wherein the chamber with the inside winch (610) is located within the straight frame member (604).

[0061] The rectangular eversible tube (614) has: (1) a first side that is parallel to the straight frame member (604), (2) a second side and a third side, each extending parallel to respective portions of the L-shaped frame member (602), and (3) a fourth side that extends parallel to a horizontal portion of the second U-shaped frame (616).

[0062] The plurality of outside winches (612) are located inside the L-shaped frame member (602).

[0063] Each of the plurality of outside winches (612) has an associated tip that: (1) connects an inside belt with the inside winch, and (2) connects an outside belt with a corresponding outside winch in the plurality of outside winches (612).

[0064] The power source (608) is configured to operate the inside winch to wind inside belts around an inside spool, with each outside winch in the plurality of outside winches (612) configured to wind a corresponding outside belt around its spool.

[0065] During an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port to extend a distal end of the eversible tube (614) until corresponding tips are moved to their predetermined positions towards their corresponding outside winches.

[0066] During a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port to retract the distal end of the eversible tube (614) until corresponding tips are moved to their predetermined positions towards the inside winch.

[0067] In one embodiment, the system comprises a pump that is connected to the port to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

[0068] In one embodiment, the fluid flowing via port is air.

[0069] In one embodiment, the power source (608) is a battery.

[0070] In one embodiment, the power source (608) is a general power supply, including a battery.

[0071] In one embodiment, the power source (608) incorporates a power supply, a drive amplifier and a velocity regulator.

[0072] It should be noted that various examples of power sources are provided as exemplary instances. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the power source may comprise other well-known power supply arrangements, with such arrangements still being within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0073] In one embodiment, the eversible tube is made of a sealable sheet such as a Thermoplastic Polyurethane-coated (TPU-coated) nylon ripstop fabric. In one embodiment, the belts are a standard nylon twisted pull rope cord, and the tip is where the two ropes, inside and outside, and the eversible tube are tied together.

[0074] In one embodiment, the chair is a wheelchair.

[0075] Double-Door Double-Seat Design of the Seat system is used for supporting a subject. As shown in FIG. 7A, a Wheelchair that can be docked to a bed has a Double Door at the back. Each Seat system is installed beneath the arm rest and the door on the same side of the Wheelchair. Each Seat system consists of an Inside Winch with an Air Chamber, a Seat Tube, Inside Belts, Outside Belts, which are connected to Outside Winches. The Outside Winches are installed in the Door on the same side as the InsideWinch and Seat Tube. First, the Double Door is opened, the Wheelchair is docked to a bed (FIG. 7B), the Double Door is closed (FIG. 7C), one side of the Seat Tube is inflated and deployed beneath the buttocks of the subject (FIG. 7D) and, thereby, the Inside Belts are deployed and secured to the Door. The process of the deployment of the Seat Tube and Inner Belts is repeated for the other side of the Wheelchair (FIG. 7E). After securing both Seat tubes and their Inside Belts, the Wheelchair leaves the bed, and the subject is carried by the Wheelchair (FIG. 7F).

[0076] In the embodiment of FIGS. 7A through 7F, the present invention provides a system comprising: (a) a power source (720), (b) a U-shaped frame (710), (c) a first L- shaped frame (702), (d) a second L-shaped frame (706), (e) a first eversible tube, and (f) a second eversible tube.

[0077] The U-shaped frame (710) is part of a chair.

[0078] The first L-shaped frame (702) comprises a first segment and a second segment connected via a first hinge (704), wherein a first outside winch (714) is located at the first hinge (704). An underside of a first segment is attached to a portion of the U-shaped frame (710). The first segment has a first chamber having within it a first inside winch (712). The first hinge (704) enables the first L-shaped frame to transition between a first closed L- shaped configuration and a first open extended straight configuration.

[0079] The second L-shaped frame (706) comprises a third segment and a fourth segment connected via a second hinge (708), wherein a second outside winch (716) is located at the second hinge (708). An underside of a third segment is attached to another portion of the U-shaped frame (710). The third segment has a second chamber having within it a second inside winch (718) The second hinge (708) enables the second L- shaped frame to transition between a second closed L-shaped configuration and a second open extended straight configuration. The first L-shaped frame (702), the second L- shaped frame (706) and the U-shaped frame (710) enclose a rectangular area, whereinthe first and second open extended straight configurations allows for a patient to be positioned within the rectangular area, after which the second and fourth segments are moved to the closed L-shaped configurations.

[0080] The first eversible tube has a first quadrant shape (730) and has the first tip located thereon, wherein a first inside belt is connected on one side to the first inside winch (712) and another side to the first tip and a first outside belt is connected on one side to the first tip and on another side to the first outside winch (714).

[0081] The second eversible tube has a second quadrant shape (732) that has the second tip located thereon.

[0082] A second inside belt is connected on one side to the second inside winch (718) and on another side to a second tip. A second outside belt is connected on one side to the second tip and on another side to the second outside winch (716).

[0083] During a first extension operation, fluid is supplied via a first port to extend the first eversible tube until the first tip is moved to a predetermined position towards the second segment to form the first quadrant shape (730).

[0084] During a second extension operation, fluid is supplied via a second port to extend the second eversible tube until the second tip is moved to a predetermined position towards the fourth segment to form the second quadrant shape (732).

[0085] During a first retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the first port to retract the first eversible tube until the first tip is moved proximate to the first segment.

[0086] During a second retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the second port to retract the second eversible tube until the second tip is moved proximate to the third segment.

[0087] In one embodiment, the system comprises a pump that is connected to the port to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

[0088] In one embodiment, the fluid flowing via port is air.

[0089] In one embodiment, the power source (720) is a battery.

[0090] In one embodiment, the power source (720) is a general power supply, including a battery.

[0091] In one embodiment, the power source (720) incorporates a power supply, a drive amplifier and a velocity regulator.

[0092] It should be noted that various examples of power sources are provided as exemplary instances. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the power source may comprise other well-known power supply arrangements, with such arrangements still being within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0093] In one embodiment, the eversible tube is made of a sealable sheet such as a Thermoplastic Polyurethane-coated (TPU-coated) nylon ripstop fabric. In one embodiment, the belts are a standard nylon twisted pull rope cord, and the tip is where the two ropes, inside and outside, and the eversible tube are tied together.

[0094] In one embodiment, the chair is a wheelchair.

[0095] Hoist with Push-Pull Self-Tunneling Belts

[0096] The Push-Pull Self-Tunneling Belt system is applied to a hoist for lifting a human. In this system, the sling of a hoist is replaced by a Push-Pull Self Tunneling sling (Autonomous Sling) autonomously goes beneath the body of a human lying on a bed. It is connected to the hanger of the hoist so that the subject can be lifted without manual operations to connect the Sling to belts of the hoist. FIG. 8A shows the hoist equipped with the Autonomous Sling. The system consists of a hoist, the Branched Push-Pull SelfTunneling Belt system (Branched Sling system), the Outside Belts, and the Outside Winches attached to the Hanger.

[0097] Initially, the Autonomous Sling is fully retracted and stored in the Unit containing the Inside Winch, the Air Chamber, and the retracted Sling Tube. First, a hoist is carried to a bed where a subject is lying, and the Unit is placed between the crotch of the subject(FIG. 8B). Then, the Branched Sling system is deployed with air pressure and the Outside Belts pulling the Tips of the Sling (FIG. 8C). The Outside Winches placed at the hanger wind up the Outside Belts to lift the subject (FIG. 8D).

[0098] In the embodiment of FIGS. 8A through 8D, the present invention provides a device for lifting a subject, where the device comprises: (a) a hoist (802) having a first hanger (803); (b) a first outside winch (810); (c) a second outside winch (812); (e) a chamber (808) having a power source, a port for fluid flow in and out of the chamber (808), and an inside winch located within the chamber; (f) a Y-shaped eversible tube (818); (g) a first inside belt (824); (h) a second inside belt (826); (i) a first outside belt (828); and (j) a second outside belt (830).

[0099] The Y-shaped eversible tube (818) has: (1) a fixed proximal end (814) proximate to the chamber (808), (2) a first distal end (815) that extends forward and away, in one direction, from a midpoint of the chamber (808), and (3) a second distal end (816) that extends forward and away, in an opposite direction to the one direction, from the midpoint of the chamber (808). The Y-shaped eversible tube (818) has a first tip (820) located at the first distal end (815) of the eversible tube (818) and the eversible tube (818) has a second tip (822) located at the second distal end (816) of the eversible tube (818).

[0100] The first inside belt (824) attaches at one end to the inside winch and attaches at another end to the first tip (820). The second inside belt (826) attaches at one end to the inside winch and attaches at another end to the second tip (822).

[0101] The first outside belt (828) attaches at one end to the first tip (820) and attaches at another end to the first outside winch (810). The second outside belt (830) attaches at one end to the second tip (822) and attaches at another end to the second outside winch (812).

[0102] The power source is configured to operate the inside winch to wind the first and second inside belts (824, 826) around an inside spool. The first outside winch (810) isconfigured to wind the first outside belt (828) around a first outside spool (832). The second outside winch (812) is configured to wind the second outside belt (830) around a second outside spool (834).

[0103] During an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port to extend the first and second distal ends (815, 816) of the eversible tube (818) until the first tip (820) is moved to a first predetermined position towards the first outside winch (810) and the second tip (822) is moved to a second predetermined position towards the second outside winch (812), where a displaced first outside belt (828) is wound in the first outside spool (832) based on power supplied by the power source, and where a displaced second outside belt (830) is wound in the second outside spool (834) based on power supplied by the power source.

[0104] During a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port to retract the first and second distal ends (815, 816) of the eversible tube (818) until the first and second tips (820, 822) are moved towards the inside winch, where a displaced first inside belt (824) and a second inside belt (826) are wound in the inside spool based on power supplied by the power source.

[0105] In one embodiment, the system comprises a pump that is connected to the port to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

[0106] In one embodiment, the fluid flowing via port is air.

[0107] In one embodiment, the power source is a battery.

[0108] In one embodiment, the power source is a general power supply, including a battery.

[0109] In one embodiment, the power source incorporates a power supply, a drive amplifier and a velocity regulator.

[0110] It should be noted that various examples of power sources are provided as exemplary instances. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the power source maycomprise other well-known power supply arrangements, with such arrangements still being within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0111] In one embodiment, the eversible tube is made of a sealable sheet such as a Thermoplastic Polyurethane-coated (TPU-coated) nylon ripstop fabric. In one embodiment, the belts are a standard nylon twisted pull rope cord, and the tip is where the two ropes, inside and outside, and the eversible tube are tied together.

[0112] In one embodiment, the system is a push-pull self-tunneling sling configured to lift a patient.

[0113] It should be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific implementations described above. The specific implementations described above are disclosed as examples only.CONCLUSION

[0114] A system and method have been shown in the above embodiments for the effective implementation of push-pull self-tunneling belts, seats, and slings. While various preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be understood that there is no intent to limit the invention by such disclosure, but rather, it is intended to cover all modifications falling within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:1 . A system comprising: a. a power source (124); b. an inside winch (104); c. a first outside winch (112); d. a chamber (102) having a port (120) for fluid flow and containing the inside winch (104) located within the chamber; e. an eversible tube (106) having a fixed proximal end (118) proximate to the chamber (102) and a distal end (116) that extends away from the chamber (102), wherein the eversible tube (106) having a tip (114) located at the distal end (116) of the eversible tube (106); f. an inside belt (108) attached at one end to the inside winch (104) and is attached at another end to the tip (114); g. an outside belt (110) attached at another end to the tip (114) and is attached at an opposite end to the first outside winch (112); wherein the power source (124) is configured to operate the inside winch (104) to wind the inside belt (108) around an inside spool (126), and the first outside winch (112) is configured to wind the outside belt (110) around an outside spool (128); wherein, during an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port (120) to extend the distal end (116) of the eversible tube (106) until the tip (114) is moved to a first predetermined position towards the first outside winch (112), where a displaced outside belt (110) is wound in the outside spool (128) based on power supplied by the power source (124); and wherein, during a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port (120) to retract the distal end (116) of the eversible tube (106) until the tip (114) is movedto a second predetermined position towards the inside winch (104), where a displaced inside belt (108) is wound in the inside spool (128) based on power supplied by the power source (124).

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the system comprises a pump (122) that is connected to the port (120) to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein fluid flowing via port (120) is air.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the power source (124) is a battery.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises: a. a first winch lock (302) securing the inside belt (108) when the eversible tube (106) is fully retracted; and b. a second winch lock (304) securing the outside belt (110) when the eversible tube (106) is fully extended.

6. A system comprising: a. a power source (402); b. an inside winch (404); c. a first outside winch (408); d. a second outside winch (410); e. a chamber (412) having a port (414) for fluid flow and containing the inside winch (404) located within the chamber; f. a Y-shaped eversible tube (416) having a fixed proximal end (418) proximate to the chamber (412) and a first distal end (420) that extends away from and above a midpoint of the chamber (412) and a second distal end (422) that extends away from and below the midpoint of the chamber (412), wherein the eversible tube (416) having a first tip (424) located at the first distal end (420) of the eversible tube (416) and wherein the eversible tube (416) having a second tip (426) located at the second distal end (422) of the eversible tube (416);g. a first inside belt (428) attached at one end to the inside winch (404) and is attached at another end to the first tip (424); h. a second inside belt (430) attached at one end to the inside winch (404) and is attached at another end to the second tip (426); i. a first outside belt (432) attached at one end to the first tip (424) and is attached at another end to the first outside winch (408); j. a second outside belt (434) attached at one end to the second tip (426) and is attached at another end to the second outside winch (410); wherein the power source (402) is configured to operate the inside winch (404) to wind the first and second inside belts (428, 430) around an inside spool (436), and the first outside winch (408) is configured to wind the first outside belt (432) around a first outside spool (440) and the second outside winch (410) is configured to wind the second outside belt (434) around a second outside spool (442); wherein, during an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port (414) to extend the first and second distal ends (420, 422) of the eversible tube (416) until the first tip (424) is moved to a first predetermined position towards the first outside winch (408) and the second tip (426) is moved to a second predetermined position towards the second outside winch (410), where a displaced first outside belt (432) is wound in the first outside spool (440) based on power supplied by the power source (402), and where a displaced second outside belt (434) is wound in the second outside spool (442) based on power supplied by the power source (402); and wherein, during a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port (414) to retract the first and second distal ends (420, 422) of the eversible tube (416) until the first and second tips (424, 426) are moved towards the inside winch (404),where a displaced first inside belt (428) and a second inside belt (430) are wound in the inside spool (436) based on power supplied by the power source (402).

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the system comprises a pump (444) that is connected to the port (414) to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein fluid flowing via port (414) is air.

9. The system of claim 6, wherein the power source (402) is a battery.

10. The system of claim 6, wherein the system further comprises: a. a first winch lock (446) securing the first and second inside belts (428, 430) when the eversible tube (416) is fully retracted; and b. a third winch lock (450) and a fourth winch lock (452) securing the first and second outside belts (432, 434) when the eversible tube (416) is fully extended.

11. A system comprising: a. a power source (456); b. an inside winch (458); c. an outside winch (472); d. a chamber (478) having a port (480) for fluid flow and containing the inside winch (448) located within the chamber (478); e. a triangular eversible tube (484) having a fixed proximal end (486) proximate to the chamber (478) and a distal end (488) that extends away from the chamber (478), wherein the triangular eversible tube (484) having a tip (468) located at the distal end (488) of the eversible tube (484); f. a first inside belt (462), a second inside belt (464), and a third inside belt (466), the first inside belt (462), the second inside belt (464), and the third inside belt (466) attached at one end to the inside winch (458) and is attached at another end to the tip (468);g. an outside belt (470) attached at one end to the tip (468) and is attached at another end to the outside winch (472); wherein the power source (456) is configured to operate the inside winch (458) to wind the first, second and third inside belts (462, 464, and 466) around an inside spool (460), and the outside winch (472) is configured to wind the outside belt (470) around an outside spool (476); wherein, during an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port (480) to extend the distal end (488) of the eversible tube (484) until the tip (468) is moved to a first predetermined position towards the outside winch (472), where a displaced outside belt (470) is wound in the outside spool (476) based on power supplied by the power source (456); and wherein, during a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port (480) to retract the distal end (488) of the eversible tube (484) until the tip (468) is moved to a second predetermined position towards the inside winch (458), where a displaced first, second and third inside belts (462, 464, and 466) are wound in the inside spool (460) based on power supplied by the power source (456).

12. The system of claim 11 , wherein the system comprises a pump (482) that is connected to the port (480) to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

13. The system of claim 11 , wherein fluid flowing via port (480) is air.

14. The system of claim 11 , wherein the power source (456) is a battery.

15. The system of claim 11 , wherein the system further comprises: a. a first winch lock (490) securing the first, second and third inside belts (462, 464, and 466) when the eversible tube (484) is fully retracted; and b. a second winch lock (474) securing the outside belt (470) when the eversible tube (484) is fully extended.

16. A system comprising:a. a first U-shaped frame, wherein the first U-shaped frame has a hinge (606) that connects a L-shaped frame member (602) with a straight frame member (604), wherein the hinge (606) enables the first U-shaped frame to transition between a closed U-shaped configuration and an open extended L-shaped configuration; b. a second U-shaped frame (616), the second U-shaped frame (616) part of a chair, a portion of the second U-shaped frame attached to an underside of the straight frame member (604), the first U-shaped frame and second U-shaped frame (616) enclosing a rectangular area, wherein the open extended L-shaped configuration allows for a patient to be positioned within the rectangular area, after which the first U-shaped frame is moved to the closed U-shaped configuration; c. a power source (608); d. an inside winch located inside a chamber (610) having a port for fluid flow, the chamber with the inside winch (610) located within the straight frame member (604); e. a rectangular eversible tube (614) having a first side that is parallel to the straight frame member (604), a second side and a third side, each extending parallel to respective portions of the L-shaped frame member (602), and a fourth side that extends parallel to a horizontal portion of the second U-shaped frame (616); f. a plurality of outside winches (612) located inside the L-shaped frame member (602), wherein each of the plurality of outside winches (612) has an associated tip that: (1) connects an inside belt with the inside winch, and (2) connects an outside belt with a corresponding outside winch in the plurality of outside winches (612); wherein the power source (608) is configured to operate the inside winch to wind inside belts around an inside spool, and each outside winch in the pluralityof outside winches (612) is configured to wind a corresponding outside belt around its spool; wherein, during an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port to extend a distal end of the eversible tube (614) until corresponding tips are moved to their predetermined positions towards their corresponding outside winches; and wherein, during a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port to retract the distal end of the eversible tube (614) until corresponding tips are moved to their predetermined positions towards the inside winch.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the system comprises a pump that is connected to the port to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

18. The system of claim 16, wherein fluid flowing via port is air.

19. The system of claim 16, wherein the power source (608) is a battery.

20. The system of claim 16, wherein the chair is a wheelchair.

21. A system comprising: a. a power source (720); b. a U-shaped frame (710), the U-shaped frame (710) part of a chair, c. a first L-shaped frame (702) comprising a first segment and a second segment connected via a first hinge (704), wherein a first outside winch (714) is located at the first hinge (704), and wherein an underside of a first segment is attached to a portion of the U-shaped frame (710), and wherein the first segment having a first chamber having within it a first inside winch (712), and wherein the first hinge (704) enables the first L-shaped frame to transition between a first closed L- shaped configuration and a first open extended straight configuration; d. a second L-shaped frame (706) comprising a third segment and a fourth segment connected via a second hinge (708), wherein a second outside winch (716) is located at the second hinge (708), and wherein an underside of a third segmentis attached to another portion of the U-shaped frame (710), the third segment having a second chamber having within it a second inside winch (718), and wherein the second hinge (708) enables the second L-shaped frame to transition between a second closed L-shaped configuration and a second open extended straight configuration, the first L-shaped frame (702), the second L-shaped frame (706) and the U-shaped frame (710) enclosing a rectangular area, wherein the first and second open extended straight configurations allows for a patient to be positioned within the rectangular area, after which the second and fourth segments are moved to the closed L-shaped configurations; e. a first eversible tube having a first quadrant shape (730) and having the first tip located thereon, wherein a first inside belt is connected on one side to the first inside winch (712) and another side to the first tip and a first outside belt is connected on one side to the first tip and on another side to the first outside winch (714); f. a second eversible tube having a second quadrant shape (732) and having the second tip located thereon, wherein a second inside belt is connected on one side to the second inside winch (718) and another side to a second tip and a second outside belt is connected on one side to the second tip and on another side to the second outside winch (716); and wherein, during a first extension operation, fluid is supplied via a first port to extend the first eversible tube until the first tip is moved to a predetermined position towards the second segment to form the first quadrant shape (730); and wherein, during a second extension operation, fluid is supplied via a second port to extend the second eversible tube until the second tip is moved to a predetermined position towards the fourth segment to form the second quadrant shape (732);wherein, during a first retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the first port to retract the first eversible tube until the first tip is moved proximate to the first segment; and wherein, during a second retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the second port to retract the second eversible tube until the second tip is moved proximate to the third segment.

22. The system of claim 20, wherein the system comprises a pump that is connected to the port to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

23. The system of claim 20, wherein fluid flowing via port is air.

24. The system of claim 20, wherein the power source (720) is a battery.

25. The system of claim 20, wherein the chair is a wheelchair.

26. A device for lifting a subject, the device comprising a. a hoist (802) having a first hanger (803); b. a first outside winch (810); c. a second outside winch (812); d. a chamber (808) having a power source, a port for fluid flow in and out of the chamber (808), and an inside winch located within the chamber; e. a Y-shaped eversible tube (818) having a fixed proximal end (814) proximate to the chamber (808) and a first distal end (815) that extends forward and away, in one direction, from a midpoint of the chamber (808) and a second distal end (816) that extends forward and away, in an opposite direction to the one direction, from the midpoint of the chamber (808), wherein the Y-shaped eversible tube (818) having a first tip (820) located at the first distal end (815) of the eversible tube (818) and wherein the eversible tube (818) having a second tip (822) located at the second distal end (816) of the eversible tube (818);f. a first inside belt (824) attached at one end to the inside winch and is attached at another end to the first tip (820); g. a second inside belt (826) attached at one end to the inside winch and is attached at another end to the second tip (822); h. a first outside belt (828) attached at one end to the first tip (820) and is attached at another end to the first outside winch (810); i. a second outside belt (830) attached at one end to the second tip (822) and is attached at another end to the second outside winch (812); wherein the power source is configured to operate the inside winch to wind the first and second inside belts (824, 826) around an inside spool, and the first outside winch (810) is configured to wind the first outside belt (828) around a first outside spool (832) and the second outside winch (812) is configured to wind the second outside belt (830) around a second outside spool (834); wherein, during an extension operation, fluid is supplied via the port to extend the first and second distal ends (815, 816) of the eversible tube (818) until the first tip (820) is moved to a first predetermined position towards the first outside winch (810) and the second tip (822) is moved to a second predetermined position towards the second outside winch (812), where a displaced first outside belt (828) is wound in the first outside spool (832) based on power supplied by the power source, and where a displaced second outside belt (830) is wound in the second outside spool (834) based on power supplied by the power source; and wherein, during a retraction operation, fluid is exhausted via the port to retract the first and second distal ends (815, 816) of the eversible tube (818) until the first and second tips (820, 822) are moved towards the inside winch, where adisplaced first inside belt (824) and a second inside belt (826) are wound in the inside spool based on power supplied by the power source.

27. The system of claim 26, wherein the system comprises a pump that is connected to the port to supply and / or exhaust fluid.

28. The system of claim 26, wherein fluid flowing via port is air.

29. The system of claim 26, wherein the power source is a battery.

30. The system of claim 26, wherein the system is a push-pull self-tunneling sling configured to lift a patient.

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