Motorized Patient Transfer Board with Rotating Disk
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transferring patients between surfaces, such as beds and wheelchairs, are labor-intensive and often result in injuries to both patients and healthcare staff due to the need for manual lifting and turning, which can be particularly challenging for bariatric patients and those with limited mobility.
Innovation Solution
A portable sliding and rotating transfer device with a rotating and sliding disk, powered by a motor, that facilitates easy transfer between surfaces by minimizing the need for manual lifting and turning, using a structural mechanism with rollers and adjustable legs for stability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual lifting and turning methods are used to transfer patients, then the transfer can be completed with simple equipment, but the risk of injury to both patients and healthcare staff increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transfer board as an intermediary device between the patient and the destination surface. The board serves as a mediator that distributes the patient's weight across a larger surface area, reducing point loads and facilitating safer transfers. The board can be positioned at various angles and heights, acting as a flexible intermediary that adapts to different transfer scenarios while minimizing injury risk to both patient and staff.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer system is segmented into multiple functional components: the transfer board itself, adjustable support legs, positioning straps, and optional mechanical assistance devices. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while reducing the overall complexity burden on any single element. The modular nature enables easy adjustment and adaptation to different patient needs.
2Productivity
If traditional transfer boards are used, then the device structure remains simple, but the transfer process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer board incorporates adjustable legs that can be dynamically positioned to match the height and angle requirements of different transfer scenarios. The board itself can be tilted and rotated to optimal positions, providing dynamic adaptability that speeds up the transfer process. This dynamic adjustment capability eliminates the need for multiple static boards and reduces setup time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent describes optional integration of mechanical assistance devices, such as powered lift mechanisms or robotic assistance systems, that can replace or supplement manual lifting and positioning. This substitution of mechanical systems for human effort directly increases transfer efficiency while managing device complexity through controlled integration.
3Strength
If bariatric patients are transferred using conventional methods, then no specialized equipment is needed, but the physical strain on healthcare staff becomes severe and injuries frequently occur
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer board is designed to distribute the patient's weight across its entire surface area and transfer it to a stable base structure with wide leg separation. This weight distribution approach counteracts the concentrated loads that would otherwise fall on staff members during manual lifting. The board's structural design provides counterbalancing stability that reduces the physical strain on healthcare staff when assisting bariatric patients.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer board is designed as a universal device that can accommodate patients of various weights, including bariatric patients, without requiring completely different equipment. The board's structure, materials, and support system are engineered to handle extended weight ranges, making it a multi-functional solution that reduces staff strain across different patient populations while avoiding the need for multiple specialized devices.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If patients with limited mobility are assisted using manual techniques, then the equipment remains simple, but the transfer process causes discomfort and may injure the patient
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer board incorporates cushioning elements and pressure-distributing surfaces that are built into the board structure itself. These cushioning features are positioned in advance to protect vulnerable areas of the patient's body during the transfer process. The board's design anticipates potential pressure points and provides preemptive protection, reducing discomfort and injury risk before they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer board acts as a gentle intermediary between the patient and the transfer process, providing a stable, comfortable surface that reduces friction and shear forces on the patient's skin and joints. The board's intermediate position allows for controlled, gradual movement rather than abrupt transfers, protecting patients with limited mobility while keeping the equipment structure relatively simple.
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
The device reduces the risk of injuries, enhances patient independence, and saves time and labor in transfers, while preserving patient dignity and reducing the strain on caregivers.
Implementation Method 1
powered by a motor
Implementation Method 2
using a structural mechanism with rollers
Data Source
AI summary
A physical transfer device/board for people in therapy or in need of special care. It starts with a long plank that bridges between the start and finish point and then the plank has a movable, rotating disk with an optional back and leg rest. The disk slides from Point A start to Point B finish and is actuated by an electric motor powered with a battery or electricity from a plug-in receptacle. The whole device is portable with a foldable leg structure to securely and safely support the patient. The use and method of the device anticipates transfers such as a patient in a bed or wheel chair transfer to a tub, shower, toilet or other place for some personal or medical need.