Subject Support Apparatus with Segmented Torso and Lower Portion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional subject support apparatuses that engage only the torso or limited portions of a subject can cause discomfort due to uneven force distribution, leading to discomfort and potential injury during lifting or movement.
Innovation Solution
A subject support apparatus with an upper portion and a lower portion coupled through shoulder straps, distributing forces more evenly across the body, and an optional support assist device with elastic and limiting straps for secure attachment to overhead structures, allowing for even weight transfer and reduced pressure on the torso.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional support apparatuses engage only the torso or limited portions of the subject, then the device complexity is reduced, but the force distribution becomes uneven causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The support apparatus is divided into multiple functional segments: an upper portion with a torso panel and shoulder straps, and a lower portion with a seat piece. This segmentation allows each component to support specific body regions, distributing forces more evenly across the subject's body while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design.
2Ease of operation
If conventional support apparatuses engage only limited portions of the subject, then the ease of operation is improved, but subject discomfort increases due to concentrated force application
Solution Approach 1:
The support apparatus transitions from engaging only a single plane (torso only) to engaging multiple dimensions of the subject's body by adding the lower portion with the seat piece that engages the thighs and hips. This multi-dimensional engagement distributes force across a larger body surface area, reducing concentrated pressure points and subject discomfort while maintaining ease of operation.
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 apparatus reduces subject discomfort by distributing forces evenly and provides secure support for subjects, enabling safe movement and therapy activities without the need for extensive mechanical lift systems.
Implementation Method 1
At least a portion of one of the loop strap and the pair of shoulder straps includes an elastic material
Data Source
AI summary
A subject support apparatus includes an upper portion including a torso panel having a first end and a second end, a loop strap having a first free end extending from the first end of the torso panel and a second free end extending from the second end of the torso panel and configured to couple the first end of the torso panel to the second end of the torso panel to form a closed loop, and a pair of shoulder straps coupled to the torso panel and extending from a top edge of the torso panel. The subject support apparatus also includes a lower portion coupled to the pair of shoulder straps and extending from a bottom edge of the torso panel. The lower portion has a seat piece having a front end and a rear end.