Multi-Strap Lifting Apparatus with Sensor-Controlled Drum Feeding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing person lifting systems typically employ a single lift strap, which may not be sufficient for situations requiring multiple straps to accommodate varying patient sizes and support needs.
Innovation Solution
A person lifting apparatus featuring a housing with multiple lifting strap feeding devices, each with a motorized drum and sensor-controlled operation, allowing for simultaneous or independent control of multiple lifting straps to manage force thresholds and adjust speed accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single lift strap is used in traditional person lifting systems, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to accommodate varying patient sizes and support needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting system is divided into multiple independent strap feeding devices (first lifting strap feeding device, second lifting strap feeding device), each capable of independently managing a separate lift strap. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different patient sizes and support requirements while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple lifting strap feeding devices are integrated into a single housing, creating a multi-functional apparatus that can accommodate various patient sizes and lifting configurations. The universal design allows the same device to serve different lifting needs without requiring separate equipment
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lifting straps are added to accommodate varying patient sizes, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple lifting strap feeding devices are merged into a single integrated housing structure, sharing common components such as the support structure, control system, and sensor. This combining approach enables the system to provide multiple straps for enhanced adaptability while avoiding the complexity of completely separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second lifting strap feeding devices are nested within a common housing, with each device containing its own drum and motor while sharing the outer housing and control infrastructure. This nesting arrangement maximizes functionality within a compact footprint
3Reliability
If sensor-controlled motor operation is implemented to manage force thresholds, then the reliability of lifting operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A sensor provides real-time feedback on the force applied to the lifting strap, and the controller uses this feedback to automatically adjust motor operation. When the sensor detects that a predetermined force threshold is approaching, the controller modulates the motor to prevent excessive force, ensuring safe and reliable lifting operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-regulation through the sensor-controller-motor feedback loop, automatically managing force thresholds without requiring constant manual intervention. The controller monitors sensor input and autonomously adjusts motor operation to maintain safe lifting parameters
4Productivity
If fast mode operation is enabled for quick positioning, then the productivity improves, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor operating speed is made dynamic rather than fixed, allowing the system to switch between normal operation and fast mode based on real-time sensor feedback and operational requirements. The controller can accelerate the motor to higher speeds for quick positioning when safe, then return to normal controlled operation
Solution Approach 2:
The controller modifies the motor speed parameter based on operational conditions, enabling fast mode for rapid strap deployment or repositioning when the lifting area is clear, and switching to normal speed for precise controlled lifting. This parameter adjustment allows flexible response to different operational phases
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A person lifting apparatus includes a housing and a first lifting strap feeding device located in the housing. The first lifting strap feeding device includes a first drum and a first lifting strap wound on the first drum. A second lifting strap feeding device is located in the housing. The second lifting strap feeding device includes a second drum and a second lifting strap wound on the second drum. The first lifting strap feeding device is support by a support structure such that the first lifting strap is directed both horizontally and vertically in the housing toward an exit opening in the housing that is offset horizontally from the first drum.