Height Adjustable Mast Chair for Patient Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current chairs designed for disabled, frail, and elderly persons are unwieldy and uncomfortable to use, lacking functionality for routine tasks such as toileting and bed transfers without causing discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A chair with a height-adjustable mast, independently movable seat cradle and rear section, and a hammock system that allows for toileting and bed transfers while maintaining patient comfort, featuring a rotating rear seat and adjustable backrest for easy clothing removal and hygiene support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional hoists and accessories are used for disabled persons, then toileting and bed transfers can be achieved, but the equipment becomes unwieldy and physically demanding to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (seating, toileting, bed transfer) into a single integrated chair system. The chair includes a seat cradle, rear seat section, height-adjustable back support frame, and hammock that work together to eliminate the need for separate hoists and accessories, making the equipment less unwieldy while maintaining all necessary capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The chair is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform toileting, bed transfers, and provide comfortable seating all in one piece of equipment. The height-adjustable back support frame and movable seat sections allow the same chair to adapt to different care tasks, eliminating the need for multiple specialized accessories
2Ease of operation
If traditional hoists and accessories are used for disabled persons, then toileting and bed transfers can be achieved, but the use becomes physically demanding
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the support frame, seat cradle, and hammock into one system, the patent eliminates the need for caregivers to manually operate separate hoists, reducing the physical force required. The integrated design allows for smoother, coordinated movements during patient transfer and toileting operations
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional accessories are used for disabled persons, then routine tasks can be performed, but the patient experiences significant discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a hammock that provides cushioning and support for the patient's body during toileting and transfer operations. The hammock is positioned in advance to cradle the patient, distributing weight and reducing discomfort before the actual transfer or toileting task begins
Solution Approach 2:
The chair features dynamically adjustable components including a height-adjustable back support frame and independently movable seat sections. These dynamic elements allow the chair to adapt its configuration during different tasks, maintaining patient comfort while enabling versatile functionality for routine care operations
4Ease of operation
If the seat cradle is raised for toileting, then access to patient's clothing can be obtained, but the rear seat section blocks access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the seat into separate sections: a seat cradle and a rear seat section that can move independently. This segmentation allows the rear section to rotate away when the seat cradle is raised for toileting, providing unobstructed access to the patient's clothing and lower body without requiring the entire seat structure to be complex or fixed in a blocking position
Data Source
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AI summary
A height adjustable chair (1) suitable for use by the disabled, frail or elderly, the chair (1) comprising a chassis (2) having a plurality of ground engaging wheels, a seat comprising a rear seat section (8a), a seat cradle (8b) and a back support frame (6). The back support frame (6) comprises a height adjustable mast (6a) that is affixed at its lower end to the chassis (2), and a cross member (66) that is connected to the height adjustable mast (6a) and which extends substantially across the width of the chair (1). The mast (6a) and cross member (6b) being arranged so that the seat cradle (8b) can be raised relative the chassis (2) and moved laterally relative the mast (6a) so that a person seated on the chair (1) can be raised and lowered in order to facilitate toileting or delivery onto a bed.