Extendable Transfer Platform With Driven Belt to Reduce Operator Strain

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current patient transfer devices, such as Hoyer Lifts, cause significant strain on human operators, are error-prone, and can result in injuries or death, while being costly and inefficient, particularly in long-term care facilities.

Innovation Solution

An extendable transfer platform with a fixed and moveable plate, driven rollers, and a transfer belt, controlled by a platform actuator and support structure, designed to minimize operator strain and reduce the risk of injury, featuring a low-friction guard layer and optional UV disinfection and fluid treatment systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional lifts and slings are used for patient transfer, then patient transfer capability is provided, but operator strain and risk of injury increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator strainVSAvoidrisk of injury

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical lifting operations with an automated robotic system featuring a robotic arm and transfer platform. The robotic arm, equipped with actuators and control systems, performs patient transfer operations automatically, eliminating the need for human operators to physically lift or support patients, thereby reducing operator strain and injury risk while maintaining reliable transfer capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The transfer device enables patients to be transferred with minimal human intervention through automated positioning and support. The system uses sensors and control algorithms to autonomously navigate, position, and execute transfers, allowing the device to serve itself in performing complex transfer tasks that previously required skilled human operators

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If traditional transfer devices are used, then patient transfer is enabled, but error-prone operations and patient discomfort occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransfer efficiencyVSAvoiderror rate

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The robotic transfer system incorporates multiple sensors including force sensors, position sensors, and vision systems that continuously monitor patient position, device position, and transfer progress. This feedback is processed by control algorithms that adjust operations in real-time, enabling automated correction of deviations and preventing errors, thereby maintaining high transfer efficiency while eliminating the error-prone nature of manual operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary positioning and preparation actions automatically before the actual transfer occurs. The robotic arm positions itself, the transfer platform is prepared, and safety checks are conducted autonomously before patient contact, ensuring that the transfer process begins in an optimal, error-free state and proceeds smoothly without manual intervention errors

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual transfer methods are used, then flexibility in transfer scenarios is provided, but operator safety and patient safety are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetransfer scenario flexibilityVSAvoidsafety hazards

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The robotic transfer system features dynamically adjustable parameters including variable speed control, adjustable force application, and real-time path planning. The system can adapt its motion profiles, gripping forces, and positioning accuracy based on patient characteristics and transfer scenario requirements, providing flexibility comparable to manual methods while maintaining safety through automated control and monitoring

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The robotic arm and transfer platform serve as an intermediary between the operator and the patient during transfer operations. This intermediary automatically handles all physical contact and manipulation tasks, isolating the human operator from direct patient contact and eliminating safety hazards associated with manual lifting and positioning, while still allowing operators to initiate and monitor transfers

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20250213409A1Devices and methods for transferring an object

Publication Date: 2025.07.03 ABLE INNOVATION INC

AI summary

A transfer device includes an extendable transfer platform. The transfer platform includes a fixed plate, a moveable plate, and at least one platform actuator configured to selectively move the moveable plate relative to the fixed plate between a retracted position and an extended position in which a leading edge of the moveable plate is located distally from a leading edge of the fixed plate. The transfer platform also includes a transfer belt having a first end secured to a first driven roller, and a second end secured to a second driven roller. The transfer device also includes a platform support structure secured to the transfer platform for supporting the transfer platform above a floor surface. The platform support structure includes at least one support actuator configured to selectively move the transfer platform relative to the floor surface between a lowered position and a raised position.