Removable Fixed Rail Section for Automated Cot Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Emergency cots are typically loaded manually into emergency vehicles, which can strain medical personnel due to the weight of the cot and the patient it supports.
Innovation Solution
A cot loading and unloading system that includes a fixed rail mounted to the vehicle's floor and a carriage with load arms that automatically translate along the rail to lift and lower the cot, reducing manual labor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual loading of emergency cots is used, then medical personnel can load cots into emergency vehicles, but the weight of the cot and patient puts large strain on medical personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical lifting system with an automated mechanical system. A carriage with load arms translates along a fixed rail to automatically lift and load the cot, eliminating the need for medical personnel to manually lift the heavy cot and patient. The system uses motorized actuation to move the carriage and load arms, substituting human physical effort with automated mechanical force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a carriage as an intermediary device between the cot and the loading process. The carriage with its load arms serves as a mediator that interfaces with the cot, translating along the fixed rail to perform the lifting and loading action. This intermediary mechanism allows the system to handle the heavy load without direct human involvement in the lifting process.
2Extent of automation
If a fixed rail system is installed in the cargo area, then automated cot loading is achieved, but the rail structure occupies space in the cargo area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the fixed rail system along the longitudinal axis of the cargo area, utilizing the length dimension rather than occupying floor space. The rail is mounted to the floor and extends along the length of the cargo area, allowing the carriage to translate in the longitudinal direction. This dimensional arrangement minimizes the footprint in the lateral dimensions, preserving cargo space while enabling automated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixed rail system is segmented into multiple sections that can be independently positioned and configured. The rail includes a first section and a second section with a gap between them, allowing for flexible installation and adjustment. This segmentation enables the system to be adapted to different cargo area configurations while maintaining automated functionality.
3Length of moving object
If the fixed rail extends beyond the cargo area, then the carriage can translate fully for cot loading, but the rail structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a movable or adjustable section in the fixed rail that can extend or retract based on operational needs. The rail system transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one, where portions of the rail can be positioned to provide the necessary travel distance for the carriage while maintaining a compact configuration when not in use. This dynamic capability allows the system to achieve full carriage translation without permanently extending the rail structure.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a removable section of a fixed rail for a cot loading and unloading system, the removable section includes a first side, a second side, wherein each of the first side and the second side define a track for wheels of a carriage operable to translate on the fixed rail and the removable section, and at least one fastening mechanism for removably attaching the removable section to an end roller support section of the fixed rail.