Firefighter Extraction Sled With Two-Snap Harness Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rescue devices are inefficient and impractical for rapidly extracting un-ambulatory firefighters from hostile, IDLH environments while they are wearing full PPE, including SCBA, due to complex attachment systems and the need for technical training, which can lead to delays and increased risk of fatality for both victims and rescuers.
Innovation Solution
The Firefighter Rapid Emergency Extraction device (F.R.E.E. Sled) features a simple, adjustable '2 Strap-2 Snap Buckle' system and integrated mechanical advantage revolver clip for secure attachment and extraction, allowing non-technical personnel to quickly and safely remove victims without altering their gear, using standard fire service ropes and minimizing the need for technician-level training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex rescue devices with multiple attachment points are used, then security and stability of victim packaging is improved, but device complexity and time required for application increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple attachment functions into a single integrated harness system. The harness uses a limited number of attachment points (head, torso, legs) that are strategically positioned to provide stable packaging without requiring numerous separate attachment mechanisms. This merging approach maintains security while reducing complexity compared to devices with multiple distributed attachment points.
Solution Approach 2:
The harness is designed as a universal device that can secure victims in various positions and configurations. The same harness structure serves multiple functions: head stabilization, torso support, and leg positioning, eliminating the need for separate specialized attachments for each body region. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while maintaining reliable packaging.
2Reliability
If technical rescue equipment requiring specialized training is used, then extraction capability is improved, but ease of operation by operational level personnel deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to be self-explanatory and self-configuring, requiring minimal training. The harness automatically adapts to the victim's body shape and position, and the attachment mechanisms are intuitively designed to engage without complex procedures. This self-service design allows operational level personnel to effectively use the device without extensive technical rescue training.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable parameters that can be modified based on victim size and condition. The harness straps and attachment points are designed with range adjustments that allow operational personnel to customize the fit without technical training. This parameter flexibility maintains extraction capability while simplifying operation for less trained users.
3Reliability
If time is spent on proper victim packaging and equipment setup, then safety and stability are improved, but response time for rapid extraction deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The harness is pre-configured with attachment points and structural elements positioned for optimal safety before use. The device comes pre-assembled with critical safety features already in place, eliminating the need for time-consuming setup procedures. This preliminary preparation maintains extraction safety while significantly reducing packaging time for rapid response situations.
Solution Approach 2:
The device design allows critical safety actions to be performed quickly through simplified mechanisms. The attachment systems are designed for rapid engagement, and the harness structure provides immediate stability with minimal adjustment. This rushing-through approach maintains necessary safety standards while enabling rapid extraction response.
4Ease of operation
If firefighter gear is modified or removed to facilitate rescue, then ease of device application is improved, but risk of contamination or injury increases
Solution Approach 1:
The harness acts as an intermediary device that interfaces with the firefighter's gear without requiring removal or modification of protective equipment. The attachment points are designed to work with standard firefighter turnout gear, SCBA, and helmet, allowing the harness to secure the victim while maintaining the integrity of the protective suit. This intermediary approach simplifies device application while eliminating contamination risks.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid and efficient extraction of firefighters from hazardous environments, reducing the risk of injury and fatality by simplifying the attachment process and allowing operational-level personnel to perform the extraction without specialized training, thereby improving response times and safety.
Implementation Method 1
integrated mechanical advantage revolver clip for secure attachment and extraction
Data Source
AI summary
A Firefighter Rapid Emergency Extraction device or F.R.E.E. Sled, is an emergency piece of equipment that acts as a rapid removal sled in which to apply to a downed firefighter, FF, within moments of locating or arriving at the victim. The F.R.E.E. Sled allows for the low profile loading and packaging of the downed FF as well as a securing strap for the RIC bag and air supply unit so that it stays with the victim. The instant invention allows the rescuer to quickly retrieve the compactly stored sled from the storage compartment of their own response vehicle, enter, locate and package the victim without the need for converting the gear that may be worn by the victim-firefighter. The F.R.E.E. Sled easily allows the operations level rescuer to secure the harness system in low-to-zero visibility environments with the “Twin Strap-Two Snap Buckle” method faster and more efficient than any other device available in the rescue art without having to remove the rescuers' protective gloves to accomplish this task. The instant invention stands to revolutionize the way the fire service saves one of their own in these Rapid Intervention deployments.