Stretcher Support Device with Double Curve Rails
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stretcher storage devices require excessive space when overcoming large height differences due to telescopic movements, which is problematic especially in vehicles with high ground clearance, where manual movement is difficult and time is limited.
Innovation Solution
A stretcher storage device with an underframe connected to the vehicle, featuring a subframe, intermediate frame, and upper frame with 'double curve' support rails that allow for a larger angle of inclination of the intermediate frame while keeping the upper frame's angle below 16°, reducing the required space for height difference overcoming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the stretcher support device uses telescopic movement of the upper frame relative to the lower frame during loading and unloading, then the device can move the stretcher vertically, but a considerable amount of space is required behind the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is divided into three separate frames (lower frame, intermediate frame, upper frame) that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the intermediate frame to pivot downward while the upper frame extends telescopically, achieving vertical stretcher movement without requiring excessive rear space
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from purely telescopic movement in one dimension to a combination of pivoting motion (intermediate frame rotating downward) and telescopic extension (upper frame moving linearly). This multi-dimensional approach reduces the space footprint while maintaining the ability to overcome height differences
2Length of moving object
If the vehicle has high ground clearance and significant height difference needs to be overcome, then the stretcher can be loaded from ground level, but a considerable amount of space behind the vehicle is required
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the support structure into three frames, the device can handle height differences through coordinated movement of each segment. The intermediate frame absorbs the pivoting motion needed for high ground clearance, while the upper frame provides the telescopic extension to maintain stretcher orientation
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses dynamic, powered movement of the intermediate and upper frames rather than static telescopic mechanisms. This allows the system to adapt to varying height differences and maintain reliability across different vehicle configurations and terrain conditions
3Ease of operation
If the upper frame is extended telescopically from the subframe to a final position, then the stretcher can be attached and positioned, but the device requires considerable space behind the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment process is divided into two independent stages: first the intermediate frame pivots to position, then the upper frame extends telescopically. This segmentation allows stretcher attachment to occur in a compact configuration, reducing the space needed behind the vehicle while maintaining full attachment capability
Data Source
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AI summary
A stretcher storage device (1) is shown and described, comprising a base frame (3) designed to be attached to the floor of the cargo space of a vehicle, a subframe (7) arranged on and fixedly connected to the base frame (3), an intermediate frame (15) slidably attached to the subframe (7), and an upper frame (31) having a flat loading surface (33) and a first and second end (35, 37) and slidably attached to the intermediate frame (15), wherein the loading end (11) has a first support element (25) on which a first support rail (27) of the intermediate frame (15), extending towards the floor and between the first and second end (17, 19) of the intermediate frame (15), is supported, wherein the second end (19) of the intermediate frame (15) has a second support element (39). exhibitsa second support rail (41) of the upper frame (31), which points towards the ground and extends between the first and second ends (35, 37) of the upper frame (31), is supported on the upper frame (31), and wherein the course of the second support rail (41) between the first end (35) and the second end (37) of the upper frame (31) is such that the angle (a) that the loading platform (33) makes with the intermediate frame (15) decreases when the upper frame (31) is moved from the retracted position to the extended position.