Ambulance Stretcher Securing Device with Automatic Hook Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current securing devices for motorized loading and extraction of trolleys in ambulances are either too bulky and heavy for low-volume ambulances or do not assist in the extraction phase, leading to musculoskeletal disorders for stretcher-bearers, and lack automatic clamping mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A securing device with a striker system mounted on a pivot link, controlled by a rod and pin mechanism, allowing for automatic opening and closing of hooks to facilitate easy loading and unloading of trolleys, and a compact, lightweight design that can be integrated into various vehicle types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a movable arm is used for securing the carriage, then the carriage can be automatically moved, but the device becomes very heavy and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the motorized movement function from a bulky movable arm structure and implements it through a compact winch mechanism. The winch combines the motor, drum, and tensioning elements into a compact unit that provides automated carriage movement without requiring a large-scale movable arm structure, thus reducing overall device weight and volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing device is designed to perform multiple functions through a single integrated system. The winch mechanism handles both the motorized movement of the carriage and the securing/descuring operations through its drum and cable system. The striker system provides both positioning and locking functions, eliminating the need for separate heavy components for each function.
2Extent of automation
If a movable arm is used for securing the carriage, then the carriage can be automatically moved, but the device occupies large volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the hook is positioned within the housing structure, and the striker system is integrated into the same spatial envelope. The winch drum is housed within the securing device assembly, allowing compact packaging of all components. This nesting approach minimizes the overall volume occupied by the securing device while maintaining automated movement capability.
3Ease of operation
If hooks are used to move the carriage, then the carriage can be tractioned, but the connection is not secure and the bar may be extracted
Solution Approach 1:
The striker system is designed to proactively prevent extraction of the carriage bar from the hook. When the carriage is in the secured position, the striker engages with the hook to block any extraction movement before it can occur. This preliminary anti-action mechanism ensures reliable connection while maintaining ease of operation for legitimate carriage movement and positioning.
4Reliability
If a striker system is used to control carriage position, then the carriage can be secured, but manual intervention is required to raise the front stand
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions to prepare for secure connection. The striker is pre-positioned in a ready state, and the hook is pre-configured to receive the carriage bar. When the carriage is brought to the receiver, the striker automatically engages with the hook without requiring manual intervention to raise or position the front stand, thereby maintaining reliability while improving ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
This lashing device (20a) between a receiver (21) and a trolley comprises: a plate (22a) intended to be mounted movably in translation; and at least one hook (30a) mounted on said plate (22a). Said lashing device (20a) also comprises, at the level of said hook (30a), a latch (32a) movable between a closed position and an open position; said latch (32a) being moved by a connecting rod (34a) the first end of which is connected to said latch (32a) and the second end of which is connected to a pin intended to cooperate with at least one stop (43) disposed in the path of said plate (22a) such that the movements of said plate (22a) cause said pin and said stop (43) to cooperate in order to control the opening or closing of said latch (32a).