T-Shaped Limb Support Pulley System for Bedridden Patient Lifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for lifting the limbs of bedridden individuals are cumbersome, often requiring closed loop structures that are difficult to position and may pose safety risks, and lack a cost-effective, easily positionable design with a "T" shaped member.
Innovation Solution
A pulley and cable system with a "T" shaped member, where the first member is longitudinally arranged and the second member is secured transversely, allowing for easy positioning under the person's knees and use of a motorized winch or manual gearing mechanism for lifting, minimizing the risk of injury and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a closed loop structure is used to hold the patient's leg, then the leg can be securely held, but the positioning becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The closed loop structure is divided into two separate members: a first member that contacts the patient's leg and a second member that forms a loop structure. The first member can be independently positioned under the leg without requiring the leg to be threaded through a closed loop, thereby reducing positioning time while maintaining secure holding through the combined action of both members
Solution Approach 2:
The second member acts as an intermediary that connects to the lifting mechanism (pulley and cable system) and transfers the lifting force to the first member, which directly contacts and supports the patient's leg. This separation allows the first member to be simple and easy to position while the second member provides the necessary structural connection
2Reliability
If a closed loop structure is used, then the leg can be held securely, but the structure becomes complex and difficult to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the closed loop into two separate members with distinct functions, each member can be manufactured using simpler processes. The first member can be a simple support element while the second member can be a standard loop structure, both of which are easier to manufacture than a single integrated closed loop requiring precise threading geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The second member serves multiple functions: it forms the loop structure for connection to the lifting mechanism, provides structural support, and transfers forces between the first member and the pulley system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, simplifying the overall manufacturing process
3Power
If a lifting line and bar are secured transversely to form a T-shaped assembly, then lifting capability is provided, but the lifting line may scratch, cut, or maim the patient
Solution Approach 1:
The first member serves as an intermediary between the patient's leg and the lifting line. It is positioned directly under the leg to provide contact and support, while the lifting line connects to the second member rather than directly contacting the patient. This intermediary arrangement maintains lifting capability while eliminating the risk of the lifting line causing injury to the patient
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
Enables safe, efficient, and cost-effective lifting of bedridden individuals' limbs, facilitating caregiving tasks like bathing and dressing without the need for complex setup or risk of injury, while being easily storable and adaptable to various environments.
Implementation Method 1
a pulley secured above said bedridden person, a cable supported and arranged for movement about the pulley
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for moving a limb of a bedridden person having a pulley secured above said bedridden person, a cable supported and arranged for movement about the pulley, and a substantially âTâ shaped member consisting of a first longitudinally arranged member having a first end and a second end, where the first end is removably secured to the cable, and a second laterally arranged member secured transversely to the second end of the first member, where the first longitudinally arranged member is arranged perpendicularly to the second laterally arranged member.