Rotatable Extrication Device for Stretcher Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current stretcher assemblies, including extrication devices and spinal boards, are inconvenient to use during transport, require multiple operators, and occupy excessive space, making them cumbersome and difficult to stow in emergency vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A stretcher with a spinal board featuring ergonomic gripping portions, a composite material construction for safety and comfort, and a rotatable extrication device connected via a flexible belt structure and locking mechanism, allowing for adjustable positioning and simplified operation, which reduces the need for additional staff and minimizes storage volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate devices (extrication device, spinal board, stretcher) are used for patient transport, then patient safety and clinical support are improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the extrication device and spinal board into a single integrated assembly where the spinal board is positioned within the extrication device structure. This merging maintains all necessary safety functions while reducing the number of separate components that need to be handled and stored.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: the extrication device provides head and torso immobilization while the spinal board supports the patient's back and distributes weight. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate devices while maintaining comprehensive patient support.
2Reliability
If multiple separate devices are used for patient transport, then comprehensive medical support is improved, but the volume occupied and ease of storage worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The spinal board is nested within the structure of the extrication device, with the board positioned in the opening of the device. This nesting arrangement allows both components to occupy overlapping space, significantly reducing the overall storage volume compared to storing them as separate items.
3Reliability
If multiple operators are used to handle the assembly, then patient safety during transfer is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the extrication device and spinal board into a single integrated unit with connection means, the assembly can be handled as one piece during patient transfer. This reduces the coordination complexity between multiple operators while maintaining safe patient handling through the combined structural support.
Data Source
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AI summary
Stretcher (1) comprising a spinal board (2), an extrication device (4) and connection means (5) interposed between the spinal board (2) and the extrication device (4). The connection means (5) is configured for connecting in a rotatable fashion the extrication device (4) to the spinal board (2) in such a way that the extrication device (4) is movable in a plurality of operational configurations between a flat configuration wherein the extrication device (4) is positioned substantially parallel to the spinal board (2) and an inclined configuration wherein the extrication device (4) defines with the spinal board (2) a predetermined angle of inclination and forms a backrest for the patient. This connection means (5) is removably connected to respective connection portions (5a) of the spinal board and the extrication device (4).