Integrated Evacuation Harness Garments for Rescue Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing evacuation devices for injured individuals in dangerous situations are not configured for simultaneous use by both the individual and rescuers, lack versatility, and often cause additional injuries due to inadequate support and connection methods.
Innovation Solution
Garments with integrated evacuation harnesses that include torso and leg strap systems, allowing for multiple configurations for towing, dragging, or carrying, and enabling rescuers to connect with each other for hands-free operation, providing stable and immediate extraction options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate tow or drag line is carried by a rescuer and connected to the individual to be extracted, then the individual can be evacuated from a dangerous situation, but the device lacks versatility for simultaneous use by both the individual and rescuers and requires additional manipulation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the evacuation harness directly into the garment worn by both the individual and the rescuer. The harness components (torso strap system, drag strap, upper connectors) are merged with the garment structure, allowing both individuals to wear identical garments that automatically provide evacuation capability without requiring separate harness manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The garment is designed with universal functionality where the same garment worn by both the individual and the rescuer serves dual purposes: protection and evacuation. The torso strap system and drag strap configuration allow the garment to function as both protective gear and evacuation device, eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a single narrow tow line or strap is used to connect to the individual, then the device is simple, but it does not prevent the individual from twisting or rotating to a position on side or face down which may inflict additional injuries
Solution Approach 1:
The evacuation harness is segmented into multiple functional components: torso strap system, drag strap, upper connectors, and retaining straps. Each segment serves a specific function in distributing forces and maintaining proper body alignment during evacuation, preventing twisting and rotation that could cause additional injuries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional narrow tow line to a multi-dimensional harness system with straps distributed across the torso and extending to multiple connection points. This dimensional expansion creates a stable framework that constrains body movement in multiple directions, preventing harmful twisting and rotation.
3Loss of information
If existing evacuation devices are used, then extraction can be performed, but they lack structure to support the individual in a manner that allows observation and communication with the rescuer
Solution Approach 1:
The harness design provides localized support at critical areas (upper rear portion, torso, legs) while maintaining the individual's head and upper body in an upright position. The upper connectors positioned at the upper rear portion and the drag strap configuration create localized force distribution that supports the individual's posture, enabling observation and communication without compromising evacuation effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
Garments having an evacuation harness that are intended for connection to each other, with each garment having an outer wear unit including at least a torso portion and an evacuation harness that includes a torso strap system connected to the outer wear unit. The garments may include an outer wear pant having a leg strap system. Garments that are similar to each other conveniently may be used in a rescue garment system. Also disclosed are methods of connecting an individual to be rescued to one or more rescuers wearing similar garments.