Stretcher with integrated bath

Abstract

The present invention describes a stretcher with an integrated bath, which comprises wheels integrated into the structure thereof for movement and also includes a fold-down door, facilitating the user's entry. The invention includes an elevation mechanism for adjusting to the user's height to facilitate entry and, subsequently, for adjusting to the height of the person providing assistance during bathing. The stretcher has a backrest with fastening straps for securing the user to prevent sliding, and an adjustment mechanism on the backrest for positioning the user comfortably. The stretcher with an integrated bath has water supply connections, and the lower part comprises a container for collecting used water for subsequent disposal.

Description

[0001] TREATMENT TABLE WITH INTEGRATED BATHTUB

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to the technical field of mechanical engineering, electronics, health care and more specifically nursing, since it provides a stretcher with an integrated bathtub.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The operational challenges inherent in managing and maintaining the hygiene of patients with reduced mobility in hospital and healthcare settings are significant. Personal hygiene and bathing for these patients are fundamental to preserving their health and well-being. However, traditional bathing methods often require repeatedly moving the patient, which can be uncomfortable and stressful for them, as well as laborious and time-consuming for healthcare staff. The use of water-resistant and durable materials, such as stainless steel, high-strength plastics, and waterproof finishes, has been key in the development of these bathing beds. Ergonomic and adjustable designs improve user comfort and therapist efficiency.

[0006] The evolution of treatment tables with integrated bathtubs reflects the growing demand for wellness treatments and the integration of technologies in the health sector.

[0007] In the mid-20th century, advances in materials and industrial design led to the integration of different functions into healthcare equipment. The emergence of modern hydrotherapy spurred the creation of devices that combined water therapy with the comfort of a treatment table. In recent decades, the growing demand for personalized rehabilitation, health, and wellness treatments has driven the development of treatment tables with integrated bathtubs. These devices offer a comprehensive treatment experience, combining massage, hydrotherapy, and other services in a single unit.

[0008] Modern treatment tables can include a variety of additional features such as hydromassage systems, water heating, electronic controls, and automatic table position adjustments. These advancements allow for personalized treatments tailored to each patient's specific needs.

[0009] Today, treatment tables with integrated bathtubs are common in health centers and physiotherapy clinics. They offer a comprehensive solution for wellness treatments, combining the relaxation and therapeutic benefits of water with other therapies. These tables represent the intersection of health, wellness, and technology, providing complete solutions for modern treatments.

[0010] A prior art search was conducted for stretchers with integrated bathtubs, revealing that various stretchers have been developed for this purpose, as mentioned in United States Patent Application No. US3755830 (11), dated September 4, 1973, entitled "PORTABLE BATHTUB," which describes a portable bathtub having a frame portion, a lining portion, and leg portions that facilitate the use of the bathtub on a carrier surface, such as a stretcher. The frame includes a horizontally arranged open center member formed by a plurality of telescopic parts. The dimensions of the open center of the frame are larger than the carrier surface.The legs are pivotally attached to the frame, and at least two of the legs are contoured so that, by turning them, the lower support end can be placed in different lateral positions. Thus, by placing the legs inwards, the tub can rest on a stretcher, and by placing the legs outwards, the frame can be lowered below the carrier surface with its lining, covering the carrier surface and the frame and leg parts hanging off the sides, thus providing a flush surface over the carrier to facilitate the movement of patients over the carrier surface.

[0011] The document cited above refers to a portable bathtub, but shows no evidence of having wheels integrated into the structure itself, which would allow it to be moved without the need for any additional element, nor does it describe having a door which is hinged, which allows the user to enter without difficulty.

[0012] The aforementioned document does not show evidence of having a lifting mechanism which allows adjustment to the user's height to facilitate entry and subsequently adjust to the height of the person responsible for assistance during bathing.

[0013] Also found was a document from a publication on a website which refers to "SHOWER AND BATH CARTS" that allows for safe and easy showering and patient transfers with the Pacific Electric Hi Lo shower cart, which describes a bathtub that features fully electric controls, a load capacity of up to 200 kg, sides of the bathtub that lower to be level with the patient platform, high-performance LINAK and TENTE components with 125 mm wheels which are corrosion resistant, height adjustment for work performance, a unique seamless deep bathtub design that is easy to clean and allows for a soft-touch fabric immersion bath, a 24 VDC system with a wall-mounted remote battery charger, a low battery warning light, a waterproof pillow, handles on both ends, a connection plug option for different regions, and optional safety rails.

[0014] The documents cited above do not describe having a backrest with restraint straps to prevent risky movements in the user, nor do they show evidence of having a tilting mechanism in the backrest to position the user at the desired height when inside the bathtub.

[0015] They also do not provide evidence of having installed pipes for the use of water by means of a shower, as well as a container for the subsequent disposal of wastewater.

[0016] OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The present invention has as its object to provide a stretcher with an integrated bathtub, which has wheels integrated into its structure for its movement.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a stretcher with an integrated bathtub, which has a hinged door to facilitate user access. A further object of the present invention is to provide a stretcher with an integrated bathtub, which incorporates a lifting mechanism that allows it to be adjusted to the user's height to facilitate access and subsequently adjusted to the height of the person responsible for assistance during the bath.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide a stretcher with an integrated bathtub, which has a backrest with restraint straps that allow the user to be secured to prevent slipping.

[0020] An additional object of the present invention is to provide a stretcher with an integrated bathtub, which incorporates an adjustment mechanism in the backrest that allows the user's inclination to be adjusted when inside the bathtub.

[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide a stretcher with an integrated bathtub, which has connections for the supply of water by means of a shower.

[0022] An additional object of the present invention is to provide a stretcher with an integrated bathtub, which incorporates a container for collecting the water used for later disposal.

[0023] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0024] The characteristic details of this novel stretcher with integrated bathtub are clearly shown in the following description and accompanying figures, as well as an illustration thereof, using the same reference symbols to indicate the parts shown. However, these figures are shown by way of example and should not be considered limiting for the present invention. Figure 1 shows a top view of the stretcher with integrated bathtub.

[0025] Figure 2 shows a top perspective view of the stretcher with integrated bathtub

[0026] Figure 3 shows a top perspective view of the stretcher with integrated bathtub, with the door open.

[0027] Figure 4 shows a side view of the stretcher with integrated bathtub, with the door open.

[0028] Figure 5 shows a front view of the stretcher with integrated bathtub, with the door open.

[0029] Figure 6 shows a rear view of the stretcher with integrated bathtub, with the door open.

[0030] Figure 7 shows a top perspective view of the stretcher with integrated bathtub, with a representation of a user lying down.

[0031] Figure 8 shows a detailed view of the interior of the stretcher with integrated bathtub, with the door open.

[0032] Figure 9 shows a detailed perspective view of the underside of the stretcher with integrated bathtub. Figure 10 shows a detailed front view of the door motor of the stretcher with integrated bathtub, with the door open.

[0033] Figure 11 shows a detailed rear view of the door motor of the stretcher with integrated bathtub, with the door open.

[0034] Figure 12 shows a detailed front perspective view of the lifting mechanism of the stretcher with integrated bathtub.

[0035] Figure 13 shows a rear perspective view of the stretcher with integrated bathtub. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] For a better understanding of the present invention, the parts that make up the stretcher with integrated bathtub are listed below:

[0037] 1. Tina

[0038] 2. Backup

[0039] 3. Opening

[0040] 4. Means of securing

[0041] 5. Straps

[0042] 6. Frame

[0043] 7. Door

[0044] 8. Engine

[0045] 9. Guide

[0046] 10. Base

[0047] 11. Connections

[0048] 12. Keys

[0049] 13. Tube

[0050] 14. Watering can

[0051] 15. Crossbar

[0052] 16. Lifting mechanism

[0053] 17. Marco

[0054] 18. Sliding

[0055] 19. Engine

[0056] 20. Bar

[0057] 21. Wheel

[0058] 22. Control Panel

[0059] 23. Hole

[0060] 24. Re illa

[0061] 25. Container

[0062] 26. Duct

[0063] 27. Drain

[0064] 28. Reinforcement. With reference to the figures, the stretcher with integrated bathtub consists of a tub (1) that is preferably hollow in its side walls and rectangular in shape with rounded inner edges; this configuration provides the user with an ergonomic surface. At least one opening (3) is located on one side of the tub (1).

[0065] A backrest (2) is installed inside the tub (1) at the rear, configured to support the user's back and preferably made of a soft, padded material, designed to provide comfort to the user of the integrated bathtub stretcher. The backrest (2) has a restraint (4) installed on each side, configured to secure the shoulders of the user inside the tub (1), thus providing support and stability and preventing unnecessary slippage.Straps (5) are installed at one end on the sides and back of the backrest (2), and the opposite ends are attached to an adjustment mechanism (not illustrated). This configuration allows the height of the backrest (2) to be adjusted by winding or unwinding the straps (5) within the adjustment mechanisms (not illustrated), raising or lowering the backrest (2), and thus choosing the inclination in which the user is positioned inside the tub (1). The adjustment mechanism (not illustrated) is installed inside the walls of the tub (1).

[0066] A frame (6) is installed on the underside of the tub (1), preferably on the periphery of said tub (1); the frame (6) is configured to provide stability to the tub (1). A door (7), which is preferably hinged, is installed in the opening (3). Motors (8) are installed on the inner face of the frame (6), preferably aligned on either side of the opening (3); a guide (9) is installed at one end on the axis of each of the motors (8), and the opposite ends are installed on each side of the door (7). The motors (8) are configured to transmit upward or downward movement to the guides (9), and thus open or close the door (7), allowing free access for the user to enter or exit the tub (1).The door (7) is configured to retain water inside the tub (1) and prevent spills when said door (7) is closed.

[0067] A prismatic base (10), preferably rectangular and hollow, is installed on the back of the frame (6); a mixer (not illustrated) is installed inside the base (10); at least two connections (11) are installed at one end in the mixer (not illustrated), and the opposite ends protrude from the back of the base (10); the connections (11) are configured to connect the water supply, preferably one for cold water and the other for hot water; two taps (12) are installed on the top of the base (10) and are connected to the mixer (not illustrated); the taps (12) are configured to regulate the flow and temperature of the water supplied by means of the connections (11).A tube (13) preferably having a curve at its top is installed vertically at one end on the top of the base (10); the tube (13) is connected to the mixer (not illustrated) and has a shower head (14) installed at the end of the top of the tube (13), which is configured to position the shower head (14) above the user in the tub (1) and with said shower head (14) spray the water supplied by the mixer (not illustrated) on the user inside the tub (1) and thus perform the cleaning. The shower head (14) is preferably extendable.

[0068] As illustrated in Figure 10, 11 and 12, at least one crossbar (15) is installed at its ends on the inner faces of each of the sides of the frame (6), positioned transversely; the crossbar (15) is preferably located in the middle part of the frame (6).

[0069] A lifting mechanism (16) is installed on the lower part of the frame (6); said lifting mechanism (16) is formed by a frame (17) having a slide (18) at each of the corners of said frame (17), preferably positioned on the inner face of the sides; a motor (19) is installed at one end of each of the slides (18); a bar (20) is installed at one end, at one end of each of the slides (18), and the opposite ends of the bars (20) are installed on the crossbar (15).The end of the bars (20) that is installed in the slides (18) is at the opposite end from where the motors (19) are located; these are configured to transmit the rotary motion to the slides (18) and thus convert it into a linear motion, to move the lower end of the bars (20) forwards or backwards, and in this way the upper end of said bars (20) that is located in the crossbar (15) transmits vertical motion, to raise or lower the frame (6) and thus adjust the height of the tub (1). The lifting mechanism (16) is configured so that the health personnel can adjust the height of the stretcher with integrated bathtub and facilitate the user's entry, as well as the cleaning procedure.

[0070] A wheel (21) which preferably has a brake, is installed in each of the corners of the lower part of the lifting mechanism (16), specifically of the frame (17). This configuration allows the stretcher with integrated bathtub to be moved and secured safely to the required area, and once at the point of use, the brake of the wheel (21) is activated to prevent unnecessary movements.

[0071] At least one reinforcement (28) is installed at its ends on the inner faces of each of the sides of the frame (17), positioned transversely; the reinforcement (28) is preferably located in the middle of the frame (17) and is configured to provide support and firmness to the frame (17).

[0072] The frame (6) and the frame (17) are preferably rectangular prismatic in shape.

[0073] A control panel (22) is installed on the top of the base (10), which consists of a microprocessor (not shown) and a power supply (not shown). This microprocessor (not shown) is connected by wiring (not shown) to the adjustment mechanism (not shown), the motors (8), and the motors (19). The control panel (22) is configured to activate the adjustment mechanism (not shown) and adjust the backrest tilt (2), as well as to activate the motors (8) and open or close the door (7), and to activate the motors (19) and adjust the height of the stretcher with integrated bathtub.The power supply (not shown) is connected to the microprocessor (not shown). This configuration allows the microprocessor (not shown), as well as the electrical and electronic components of the integrated bathtub stretcher of this invention, to be powered for operation. The power supply (not shown) is preferably a rechargeable battery.

[0074] The adjustment mechanism (not illustrated), the motors (8) and (19) can be an electric motor, a servo motor, a stepper motor or a combination of the above.

[0075] A charging port (not illustrated) is installed on the control panel (22) and is connected to the power supply (not illustrated). This configuration allows one end of a cable (not illustrated) to be connected to the charging port (not illustrated) and the other end to be connected to a fixed electrical power supply, thereby recharging the power supply (not illustrated).

[0076] A switch (not illustrated) is installed on the control panel (22), and is connected to the power source (not illustrated). This configuration allows the control panel (22) to be turned on or off.

[0077] An opening (23) is placed inside the tub (1), preferably on the opposite side from the backrest (2); a grate (24) is installed on top of the opening (23), this configuration prevents the entry of objects that could obstruct said opening (23). A container (25) is installed in the lifting mechanism (16), specifically on top of the frame (17); a duct (26) is connected at one end to the top of the container (25), and the opposite end is connected to the opening (23) at the bottom of the tub (1).A drain (27) is located on one of the faces of the container (25), preferably on the front face; said drain (27) has a valve installed (not illustrated); this configuration allows the water in the tub (1) to be drained through the hole (23) during the cleaning procedure, and the water to be channeled into the container (25) through the duct (26) for subsequent final disposal of the wastewater by opening the valve (not illustrated).

[0078] The duct (26) is preferably retractable; this configuration allows the duct (26) to be extended or retracted when adjusting the height of the tub (1) by means of the lifting mechanism (16) without disconnecting the duct (26) from the hole (23) and the container (25).

[0079] A wireless communication unit (not illustrated) may be located inside the control panel (22). This configuration allows the height of the adjustment mechanism (not illustrated), the door (7) to be opened or closed, and the height of the lifting mechanism (16) to be adjusted remotely and in real time via a smart device such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone. The wireless communication unit (not illustrated) may use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity), or UWB (Ultra-Wideband). PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0080] Examples

[0081] The following examples illustrate a preferred way of carrying out the realization of the present invention, and therefore should not be considered as limiting it.

[0082] Example 1. Operation and functioning of the stretcher with integrated bathtub.

[0083] With reference to the figures mentioned above, the door (7) of the tub (1) is opened by means of the control panel (22) and the user is placed inside the tub (1) by reclining on the backrest (2). Once this has been done, the inclination of the backrest (2) is adjusted by activating the adjustment mechanism (not illustrated) by means of the control panel (22) and the user is secured with the restraints (4). Before starting the cleaning procedure, the door (7) is closed. The height of the lifting mechanism (16) is adjusted by activating the motors (19) by means of the control panel (22), until the height is ideal for the assistant who will perform the cleaning.

[0084] To begin the user's hygiene, the taps (12) are opened to adjust the flow and temperature of the water coming out of the shower (14). During the hygiene procedure, the wastewater is discharged through the orifice (23), and the duct (26) channels the water into the container (25).

[0085] Once the user's hygiene is finished, the taps (12) are closed and with the help of the control panel (22) the door (7) is opened again, the height of the lifting mechanism (16) is adjusted to the height of the user and facilitate their exit from the tub (1), finally the door (7) is closed again by means of the control panel (22).

[0086] The stretcher with integrated bathtub is moved with the help of the wheels (21) to a place where the wastewater accumulated in the container (25) can be disposed of. Once located in the designated place, the valve (not illustrated) is opened for the final disposal of wastewater.

[0087] In view of the foregoing, it is reiterated that the scope of the present invention shall not be limited by the specific embodiments described, and it shall be understood that variations may be made in several respects. Such variations shall not be considered a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications may be obvious to a person skilled in the art and shall be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

RECLAIMS 1. A stretcher with integrated bathtub, characterized in that it comprises: a tub (1) having installed inside at the back a backrest (2) on which the back of a user is placed; a restraint means (4) is installed on each of the sides of the backrest (2) to secure the shoulders of the user; straps (5) are installed at one end on the sides and the back of the backrest (2), and the opposite ends are attached to an adjustment mechanism installed inside the walls of the tub (1) to adjust the height of the backrest (2) by winding or unwinding the straps (5) within the adjustment mechanisms, raising or lowering said backrest (2); A frame (6) is installed at the bottom of the tub (1) to give it stability; at least one opening (3) is located on one side of the tub (1);A door (7) is installed in the opening (3); motors (8) are installed on the inner face of the frame (6), each aligned on either side of the opening (3); a guide (9) is installed at one end on the axis of each of the motors (8), and the opposite ends are installed on each side of the door (7), which opens by means of the movement transmitted by the motors (8) to the guides (9); a base (10) is installed on the back of the frame (6); a mixer is installed inside the base (10); at least two connections (11) are installed at one end in the mixer, and the opposite ends protrude from the back of the base (10);Two taps (12) are installed on the top of the base (10) and are connected to the mixer to regulate the flow and temperature of the water; supplied by means of the connections (11); a tube (13) is installed vertically at one end on the top of the base (10); the tube (13) is connected to the mixer and has a shower head (14) installed at the end of the top of the tube (13), which is configured to position the shower head (14) above the user in the tub (1) and to spray the water supplied by the mixer with said shower head (14); at least one crossbar (15) is installed at its ends on the inner faces of each side of the frame (6); a lifting mechanism (16) is installed on the bottom of the frame (6); A wheel (21) is installed at each of the corners of the lower part of the lifting mechanism (16); a control panel (22) is installed on the top of the base (10);an orifice (23) is placed inside the tub (1); a container (25) is installed in the lifting mechanism (16); a duct (26) is connected at one end to the top of the container (25), and the opposite end is connected to the orifice (23) at the bottom of the tub (1); and a drain (27) is located on one of the faces of the container (25).

2. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the tub (1) is hollow in its side walls and is rectangular in shape with rounded inner edges with an ergonomic surface.

3. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the backrest (2) is made of a soft, padded material and is configured to provide comfort to the user.

4. The stretcher according to claim 2 characterized in that the frame (6) is located on the periphery of the tub (1).

5. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the door (7) is hinged.

6. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the door (7) is configured to retain water inside the tub (1) and prevent spills when said door (7) is closed.

7. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the base (10) is rectangular prismatic in shape and is hollow.

8. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the connections (11) are connected to the water supply.

9. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the tube (13) has a curvature at the top.

10. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the watering can (14) is extendable.

11. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the crossbar (15) is located in the middle part of the frame (6) transversely.

12. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the lifting mechanism (16) is formed by a frame (17) having a slide (18) at each of the corners of said frame (17); a motor (19) is installed at one end of each of the slides (18); a bar (20) is installed at one end of each of the slides (18), and the opposite ends of the bars (20) are installed on the crossbar (15); such that by means of the lifting mechanism (16) the height of the stretcher with integrated bathtub is adjusted.

13. The stretcher according to claim 12 characterized in that the slides (18) are located on the inner face of the sides of the frame (17).

14. The stretcher according to claim 12 characterized in that the end of the bars (20) that is in the slides (18) is at the opposite end from where the motors (19) are located.

15. The stretcher according to claims 1 and 12, characterized in that the wheels (21) are located at the bottom of the frame (17), which allows the stretcher with integrated bathtub to be moved and stabilized.

16. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the wheels (21) have brakes.

17. The stretcher of claims 1 and 12 characterized in that the frame (6) and the frame (17) are rectangular prismatic in shape.

18. The stretcher according to claim 12 characterized in that at least one reinforcement (28) is installed at its ends on the inner faces of each of the sides of the frame (17), positioned transversely.

19. The stretcher according to claim 12 characterized in that the reinforcement (28) is located in the middle part of the frame (17) and is configured to provide support and firmness to the frame (17).

20. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the control panel (22) is formed by a microprocessor and a power supply.

21. The stretcher according to claim 20 characterized in that the microprocessor is connected by means of a wiring to the adjustment mechanism, the motors (8) and (19); this configuration allows the adjustment mechanism to be activated and the inclination of the backrest (2) to be adjusted, as well as the motors (8) and (19) to be activated to open or close the door (7), and the height of the stretcher with integrated bathtub to be adjusted.

22. The stretcher according to claim 20 characterized in that the power source is a rechargeable battery.

23. The stretcher according to claim 1 and 12 characterized in that the adjustment mechanism, the motors (8) and (19) are an electric motor, a servomotor, a stepper motor or a combination thereof.

24. The stretcher according to claim 1 above, characterized in that a charging port is installed on the control panel (22).

25. The stretcher according to claims 20 and 24 characterized in that the charging port is connected to the power supply, allowing the end of a cable to be connected to the charging port and the opposite end to be connected to a fixed electrical power supply, and in this way recharging the power supply.

26. The stretcher according to claims 1 and 20 characterized in that a switch is installed on the control panel (22) and is connected to the power source allowing said control panel (22) to be activated or deactivated.

27. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the hole (23) is located on the opposite side from where the backrest (2) is located.

28. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that a grid (24) is installed on the top of the hole (23) preventing the entry of objects that could obstruct said hole (23).

29. The stretcher according to claims 1 and 12 characterized in that the container (25) is located on the top of the frame (17).

30. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the drain (27) is located on the front face.

31. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that a valve is installed in the drain (27).

32. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that the duct (26) is retractable allowing said duct (26) to be extended or retracted when adjusting the height of the tub (1) by means of the lifting mechanism (16) and without disconnecting the duct (26) from the hole (23) and the container (25).

33. The stretcher according to claim 1 characterized in that a wireless communication unit is located inside the control panel (22) to change the height of the adjustment mechanism, open or close the door (7) and adjust the height of the lifting mechanism (16) remotely and in real time, by means of an intelligent device.

34. The stretcher according to claim 33 characterized in that the smart device is a computer, a tablet or a smartphone.

35. The stretcher according to claim 33 characterized in that the wireless communication unit is by means of Bluetooth, WiFi or UWB.

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