Expanded Polyethylene Rescue Stretcher with Longitudinal Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing floating devices for water-scooter rescue and transport are unstable due to internal structures of different materials, lack stiffness, and pose safety risks during lifting and transportation, with non-uniform floating and inadequate protection for the transported person.
Innovation Solution
A floating device with a single, expanded polyethylene filling structure and longitudinal shapes for improved stability and rigidity, featuring a continuous PVC outer coating, longitudinal slits for better limb positioning, and quick deployment mechanisms for easy use in emergency situations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an internal structure consisting of multiple sections with different materials is used, then the device can provide functional differentiation, but the stability and uniform floating of the device deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by using a single continuous expanded material (such as polyethylene foam) for the entire internal structure instead of multiple different materials. This single-material approach ensures uniform density and buoyancy distribution throughout the device, achieving uniform floating and stability while still providing functional differentiation through the geometric shaping and compartmentalization of the single material structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If the device uses a flexible structure, then it can be easier to manufacture and fold, but the stiffness and safety during lifting deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the material from flexible to rigid by using expanded foam material with high structural rigidity. This material parameter change provides the necessary stiffness for safe lifting and handling while maintaining ease of manufacture through the inherent moldability of foam materials and the ability to create integrated structures that require minimal assembly.
3Strength
If the device is made with rigid structures for stiffness, then lifting safety improves, but the ease of folding and compact storage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the single expanded material structure into distinct functional zones or compartments (such as head region, torso region, leg regions) that are separated by internal geometric features. This segmentation allows the rigid structure to maintain its shape for safety while enabling controlled folding along predetermined lines between segments, facilitating compact storage without compromising structural integrity during use.
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
The solution provides uniform floating, enhanced lifting safety, improved comfort, and easier handling, while allowing for compact storage and quick deployment, offering greater hydrodynamic protection and reduced production costs.
Implementation Method 1
an internal filling structure 2, obtained out of one single expanded material plate... allowing an easy application of said coating 1
Implementation Method 2
greater lateral protection (hydrodynamic effect) of shoulders and legs due to the considerable floating difference between the areas with the expanded material and the areas without the same
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A floating device for the rescue and transport of individuals by means of water-scooters in a sanitary way, comprising an outer coating structure (1) made of water resistant material, and an internal filling structure (2) out of floating material, wherein said internal filling structure comprises one single plate, or alternatively a plurality of superposed plates, out of expanded material, having longitudinal structures (4, 5) for allowing a better stability of the transported person.