Multi-Strap Patient Lift Layout for Variable User Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing person lifting systems often employ only a single lift strap, which may not meet the needs of situations requiring multiple straps for various lifting operations.
Innovation Solution
A person lifting apparatus with multiple lifting straps, each fed by a separate feeding device, supported by a structure that directs the straps both horizontally and vertically, allowing them to exit at angles to maintain a predetermined distance and accommodate different user sizes and positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single lift strap is used in the lifting system, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting system is segmented into multiple independent lifting strap feeding devices, each capable of independently winding and paying out its own lifting strap. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different user sizes and positions by selectively using one or multiple straps, while each device operates as a separate functional unit with its own motor, drum, and control circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
Each lifting strap feeding device is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple operations: winding the lifting strap onto the drum, paying out the lifting strap from the drum, and supporting the strap in intermediate positions. The devices can be used individually or in combination, making the system versatile for different lifting scenarios including bariatric patients.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lifting straps are implemented, then the adaptability for different user sizes and positions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting strap is directed both horizontally and vertically within the housing, creating a three-dimensional path from the drum to the exit opening. This dimensional approach allows the strap to clear other components and exit at an optimized angle, reducing interference between multiple straps and their feeding devices while maintaining adaptability for various user configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
A support structure acts as an intermediary element between the lifting strap feeding devices and the external environment. This support structure includes the housing that contains the drums and motors, and the exit openings that guide the straps outward, mediating the complex internal mechanics while providing a simplified external interface for strap deployment.
3Ease of operation
If the lifting strap is directed both horizontally and vertically, then the strap exit positioning is optimized, but the internal housing space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure for the lifting strap feeding device is designed to be adjustable rather than fixed, allowing the drum position and strap exit angle to be dynamically modified. This dynamic configuration enables optimization of strap exit positioning for different operational scenarios without requiring a larger housing, as the same space can be reconfigured for different strap deployment angles and positions.
Data Source
AI summary
A person lifting apparatus includes a strap movement system. The person lifting device includes a housing and a lifting strap feeding device located in the housing. The lifting strap feeding device includes a motor connected to a drum and a lifting strap wound on the drum. A sensor provides a signal indicative of force on the lifting strap. A controller receives the signal from the sensor. The controller controls operation of the motor based on the signal. A user input is used to place the strap movement system in a fast mode during which the controller speeds up operation of the motor from a normal operating speed.