Two-Part Stretcher Coupling for Spine-Safe Patient Lifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stretcher devices pose risks during handling and transport, particularly in confined spaces, due to complex assembly, potential spine displacement, and non-radiolucent materials, which can complicate X-ray examinations and violate emergency handling regulations.
Innovation Solution
A two-part stretcher device with reversible, pivot-based coupling and locking mechanisms allows for easy assembly and transport without spine displacement, featuring radiolucent materials and removable grasping means for secure handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a backboard is used to immobilize the victim, then the victim's body can be immobilized, but the risk of displacing the neck and spine during placement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stretcher is divided into two separate parts (first part and second part) that can be independently positioned under the victim's body. This segmentation allows rescuers to slide each part under the victim without needing to roll or lift them, thereby immobilizing the victim while minimizing the risk of spine displacement during placement.
2Ease of operation
If a scoop stretcher is used to lift the victim, then the victim can be lifted without further trauma, but the parts are difficult to secure together firmly
Solution Approach 1:
The two parts of the stretcher are designed to be connected through coupling mechanisms (such as hooks, latches, or interlocking features) that firmly secure them together once positioned under the victim. This merging of the two separate parts creates a single rigid structure that can safely support and transport the victim without the risk of separation.
3Strength
If metal fastening points are used for durability, then the device is durable, but it is not radiolucent for X-ray examinations
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening points are constructed using composite materials or radiolucent materials (such as certain plastics, carbon fiber, or glass-reinforced materials) that provide both the necessary mechanical strength and durability while remaining transparent to X-rays. This allows the device to be both durable and compatible with radiographic examinations.
4Ease of operation
If the junction area between halves is offset laterally from the midline, then assembly is facilitated, but the central section becomes too thick making it difficult to move the victim
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanisms are extracted or positioned at the longitudinal ends of the stretcher parts rather than at the central section. This allows the central section to remain thin and sleek for easy victim movement, while the coupling mechanisms are located at the ends where they do not interfere with the victim's body or create excessive thickness.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a transport device (1) for transporting a person, comprising a preferably concave support surface (S) which extends longitudinally and on which a person (20) can be transported, the support surface (S) having two lateral edges (230), and comprising two longitudinal ends (210), the device (1) further comprising grippable means (5) for gripping the device (1), and at least one coupling between each of the grippable means (5) and each of the longitudinal ends (210), the device (1) being characterized in that the coupling comprises at least two coupling points, including at least one pivot.