Inflatable Patient Handling Device with Dual Cavity Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current patient handling devices are either specifically sized and configured for either patient positioning or transfer, requiring caregivers to switch devices and resulting in inefficient and labor-intensive processes that can lead to injuries for healthcare workers.
Innovation Solution
An inflatable patient handling device with two separately inflatable sections, allowing for different configurations to accommodate various patient handling needs, including a first section that can be inflated independently of a second section, with features like gussets, air passages, and directional stitching to reduce friction and facilitate movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate devices are used for patient positioning and transfer, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming requiring multiple device switches
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable patient handling device is designed with a single unified structure that can perform multiple functions including patient positioning, transfer, and repositioning. The device incorporates adjustable features such as inflatable/deflatable sections and reconfigurable support surfaces that allow it to adapt to different patient handling scenarios without requiring multiple separate devices, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining functional optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamically adjustable components including inflatable sections that can be selectively inflated or deflated to change the device's configuration and support characteristics. This dynamic reconfigurability allows the same device to transition between different functional states (positioning mode, transfer mode, etc.) without physical device replacement, resolving the contradiction between functional optimization and operational simplicity.
2Reliability
If multiple caregivers are used to handle patients, then patient safety is improved, but the time required for patient handling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable patient handling device serves as an intermediary mechanical advantage system that reduces the physical effort required for patient handling. By incorporating air-assisted lifting mechanisms, adjustable support surfaces, and reconfigurable structures, the device enables safer patient handling with fewer caregivers while reducing the time required for positioning and transfer operations through automated or semi-automated mechanical assistance.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid transfer boards are used for patient transfer, then transfer stability is improved, but the physical exertion on caregivers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates pneumatic (air-based) lifting and support mechanisms that use inflated chambers to provide upward force and support for patient transfer. The inflatable sections create a cushioning effect that reduces the direct physical burden on caregivers while maintaining transfer stability through controlled air pressure and structural support, replacing rigid mechanical boards with a flexible pneumatic system.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows dynamic change of physical parameters including rigidity, buoyancy, and support distribution through selective inflation and deflation of sections. This enables the device to adjust its mechanical properties to match different patient weights and transfer requirements, providing stable support while minimizing the force required from caregivers through parameter optimization rather than fixed rigid structure.
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 efficient and safe patient handling by allowing caregivers to use a single device for both positioning and transfer, reducing the physical exertion required and minimizing the risk of injury to healthcare workers.
Implementation Method 1
air assisted patient transfer devices that utilize forced air to reduce the physical exertion needed from healthcare workers to accomplish the task of moving a patient
Implementation Method 2
air assisted patient transfer devices that utilize forced air to reduce the physical exertion needed from healthcare workers to accomplish the task of moving a patient
Data Source
AI summary
An inflatable device includes a top sheet and a bottom sheet to define a cavity when inflated such that the top sheet forms a top wall of the cavity and the bottom sheet forms a bottom wall of the cavity. The device includes a cavity junction connecting the top sheet and the bottom sheet configured to separate the cavity into a first cavity and a second cavity. The device includes a first port having a first opening in fluid communication with the first cavity and configured to allow passage of air into the first cavity. The device includes a second port having a second opening in fluid communication with the second cavity and configured to allow passage of air into the second cavity. The device further includes an opening in the cavity junction configured to allow air flow from the second cavity into the first cavity.