Swivel Stair Chair Assembly for Faster Patient Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stair chairs are not patient-friendly for loading and unloading, nor user-friendly for emergency responders, and lack features that enhance job efficiency and safety during subject transport.
Innovation Solution
A compact, fully collapsible chair system with a swivel seat assembly, shoulder and lap restraint systems, and a telescoping IV pole, featuring a rail assembly with adjustable tracks and ergonomic handles for easy maneuverability and secure subject transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional stair chairs are used for subject transport, then basic transport function is achieved, but loading and unloading becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The seat assembly is made swiveling to allow dynamic repositioning during loading and unloading operations. The seat can rotate to face different directions, enabling responders to approach from various angles and facilitating easier patient transfer without requiring complex lifting maneuvers
Solution Approach 2:
The chair is divided into separable components including the seat assembly, base assembly, and rail assembly. The seat assembly can be detached and reattached, allowing flexible configuration for different loading scenarios and enabling the seat to be positioned optimally for patient access
2Reliability
If conventional stair chairs are used, then transport capability is provided, but user safety and security during transport is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple restraint functions are combined into an integrated restraint system that includes both shoulder and lap restraint capabilities. The system merges these functions into a unified structure that secures the patient at multiple points simultaneously, enhancing safety without requiring separate independent systems
Solution Approach 2:
The restraint system is designed to provide multiple functions through a single integrated mechanism. The same restraint structure provides both shoulder and lap restraint, and can accommodate different patient sizes and positions, making the system universally applicable while maintaining safety
3Ease of operation
If conventional stair chairs are used, then basic transport function is achieved, but maneuverability and handling ease is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The handles are designed to be telescoping, allowing them to extend and retract based on the responder's needs. The handles can be adjusted to different lengths and positions, enabling ergonomic gripping and comfortable maneuvering regardless of the responder's height or position relative to the chair
Solution Approach 2:
The handles are pre-positioned and pre-configured in optimal locations for gripping and controlling the chair. The telescoping mechanism is pre-set with stop positions that automatically place the handles at ergonomically correct distances from the base, eliminating the need for complex adjustments during emergency operations
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional stair chairs are used, then transport function is provided, but adaptability to different emergency situations is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The chair system incorporates multiple functional elements that can serve different purposes depending on the situation. The swivel seat can be used for loading, unloading, or repositioning patients during transport. The telescoping handles can be adjusted for different responder heights. The restraint system can accommodate various patient sizes and conditions, making the single device adaptable to diverse emergency scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The chair features dynamic, adjustable components that can be modified during operations. The seat assembly can be swiveled and repositioned. The handles can be extended or retracted. These dynamic features allow the device to adapt to different emergency situations without requiring multiple specialized chairs
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a chair configured for transporting a subject (e.g., up or down an elevated surface (e.g., a stairway, a curb, a ramp, etc.)) and methods of using the same. In particular, the present invention provides a chair comprising a rail assembly, a pair of back legs and a pair of front legs, wherein the rail assembly is fastened to the back legs and wherein the back legs and front legs are interconnected via a pair of side rails and a seat assembly, wherein the seat assembly comprises a seat frame and a swivel seat assembly, and methods of using the same (e.g., to load and/or unload a subject onto the chair and/or to transport a subject).