Push Handle IV Pole Coupler for Single-Caregiver Patient Transport

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Solution Overview

Problem

Transporting patients with intravenous bags on wheeled IV poles is challenging, requiring multiple caregivers to maneuver both the stretcher and the IV pole, as existing solutions do not provide a convenient and efficient way to handle both simultaneously.

Innovation Solution

A patient support apparatus with an integrated IV pole coupler that allows a caregiver to grip both the push handle and the IV pole with one hand, using a hook, flange, or flexible flap to securely hold the IV pole, enabling simultaneous maneuvering of the stretcher and IV pole.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a floor supported IV pole is used during patient transport, then IV medication administration is enabled, but multiple caregivers are required to maneuver both the stretcher and IV pole

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveEase of maneuvering stretcher and IV poleVSAvoidNumber of caregivers required

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the IV pole coupler with the push handle into a single integrated assembly. The coupler is directly attached to the push handle, allowing both functions (pushing the stretcher and holding the IV pole) to be performed from one location, thereby enabling one caregiver to manage both the stretcher and IV pole simultaneously

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of operation

If an IV pole coupler is added to the push handle, then single-handed operation is enabled, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAbility to grip push handle and IV pole simultaneouslyVSAvoidStructural complexity of push handle assembly

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The push handle assembly is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the pushing mechanism for the stretcher and the mounting structure for the IV pole coupler. This multi-functional design allows the same structural elements to fulfill multiple purposes, adding the IV pole holding capability without proportionally increasing overall complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The IV pole coupler is integrated into the push handle structure, with the coupler forming part of the handle assembly. The coupler's components (such as the U-shaped member and retaining structure) are nested within or attached to the push handle, creating a compact integrated unit rather than separate independent components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS7637464B2Patient support with mobile IV stand transport handle

Publication Date: 2009.12.29 HILL ROM SERVICES INC

AI summary

A patient support apparatus includes a frame, a plurality of casters coupled to the frame and supporting the frame above a floor, a push handle coupled to the frame, and an IV pole coupler coupled to the push handle.