Abstract: A patient lifting device includes an infection control lift strap with an inner core and an outer plastic layer that can be easily and effectively cleaned with standard disinfectant. The lift strap includes a waterproof sealed belt clamp assembly. A winch assembly includes a motor and high-efficiency gear assembly that lifts and lowers the strap with a spool assembly including an eccentric cylindrical spool. The eccentric cylindrical spool eliminates inconsistent performance of the lifting device as the strap drapes and coils onto the spool without raised attachment points. The strap includes top and bottom layers with different coefficients of friction to prevent slipping and self-tightening of the strap on the spool. The lifting device includes a thickness roller, a strap guard, and an electro-mechanical brake that locks the motor and prevents back driving. The gear assembly provides back driving when power is removed and the brake is released.

Abstract: A patient lifting device includes an infection control lift strap with an inner core and an outer plastic layer that can be easily and effectively cleaned with standard disinfectant. The lift strap includes a waterproof sealed belt clamp assembly. A winch assembly includes a motor and high-efficiency gear assembly that lifts and lowers the strap with a spool assembly including an eccentric cylindrical spool. The eccentric cylindrical spool eliminates inconsistent performance of the lifting device as the strap drapes and coils onto the spool without raised attachment points. The strap includes top and bottom layers with different coefficients of friction to prevent slipping and self-tightening of the strap on the spool. The lifting device includes a thickness roller, a strap guard, and an electro-mechanical brake that locks the motor and prevents back driving. The gear assembly provides back driving when power is removed and the brake is released.

Abstract: A support member for use in a patient lifting device is described. The support member includes an improved lift strap having an inner core and an outer plastic layer that can be easily and effectively cleaned with standard disinfectant. The lift strap is secured to a patient lifting device with a spool assembly that guides the lift strap and a belt clamp assembly that compresses the lift strap and holds it into place. In the preferred embodiment, the support member is used in an electric ceiling- or floor-mounted patient lifting device. The preferred lifting device is composed of a track component attached to a winch assembly. The winch assembly has an electric motor that raises and lowers the lift strap by means of a spool assembly and belt clamp assembly. The belt clamp assembly attaches to a sling that supports the patient while he or she is displaced.