Patient Transfer Aid With Vibrating Footplate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional patient transfer and mobility aids lack dynamic foot support for muscle and balance training, limiting their effectiveness in rehabilitation and recovery.
Innovation Solution
A patient transport and training device with a powered footplate member that vibrates to provide dynamic therapy, combined with a lifting mechanism and control unit for variable operation, allowing for simultaneous lifting, support, transport, and muscle/balance training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional walkers or static footrests are used, then patient transport and basic support are provided, but dynamic muscle and balance training therapy cannot be delivered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines patient transport functionality with dynamic therapy delivery by integrating a vibration mechanism into the footrest assembly. The footrest serves dual purposes: providing structural support during transport and delivering vibrational therapy when activated, thereby merging two previously separate functions into one unified device.
Solution Approach 2:
The footrest assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides mechanical support during patient transport, serves as a platform for vibration therapy, and can be controlled through an integrated control system. This multi-functionality allows a single device to address both transport needs and rehabilitation requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If static footrests are used in hoists, then patient support during transport is provided, but no dynamic therapy for muscle and balance training is available
Solution Approach 1:
The vibration mechanism operates through periodic oscillations at controlled frequencies and amplitudes. This periodic action delivers therapeutic vibrations to the patient's feet and legs, enabling muscle and balance training through rhythmic mechanical stimulation rather than continuous motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system allows adjustment of vibration parameters including frequency and amplitude. By varying these parameters, the device can adapt the therapy intensity and type to match patient needs and rehabilitation progress, providing customized dynamic therapy while managing power consumption efficiently.
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
Enhances patient recovery and mobility by providing dynamic vibrational therapy and adjustable support for muscle and balance training during transport and rehabilitation.
Implementation Method 1
a powered footplate member which vibrates when actuated. This vibration may be used to deliver dynamic vibrational therapy to a user positioned on the footplate member
Data Source
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AI summary
A patient transfer and training aid (100) includes a chassis (10) to which a lifting unit (12) is attached. The lifting unit (12) includes a lifting arm assembly (115) and an active foot support assembly (111) fixed to the chassis (10). The device (100) also includes a control unit (150) which operates motors of the lifting arm assembly (125) and the active foot support assembly (116). A patient can activate the foot support assembly (111) to provide vibratory movement of the foot support assembly (111) in order to provide muscle toning and training able to assist in the recovery and rehabilitation of the patient. The device (100) can also be used to aid in the transfer of a patient from one location to another. The device (100) can be used in a variety of different configurations to provide different forms of patient support and training.