Abstract: A patient support fashioned of a core of carbon-fiber material and a synthetic material for binding the carbon-fiber material. The carbon-fiber core has a greater proportion of carbon fibers oriented substantially in lengthwise directions than in other directions. As a result of this construction, the patient support is substantially inflexible along its longitudinal axis yet flexible along its lateral axis. The sides of the support can be drawn up and around the patient, to hold the patient immobile within the support, which is especially helpful when transporting trauma patients and those with back and neck injuries. The support is also transparent to radiation, making it particularly suited to use with radiation imaging devices. Finally, the exterior surface of the support is formed of low-friction material, further facilitating practical use thereof. The support can be fashioned as a backboard or a patient transfer device and has a wide range of advantageous applications in a hospital environment.

Abstract: An imaging table for medical examination and imaging procedures. A tilting imaging table comprises a rectangular base frame on wheels, a column extending upwardly from the base, and a tilt assembly which includes a pair of rotatable pivot arms at the top of the column. A radiolucent table top for imaging purposes is removably secured to the tilt assembly. At least two interchangeable radiolucent table tops, of different configurations and used for different medical imaging purposes, accompany the tilting imaging table and may be secured removably, one at a time, to the tilt assembly. This tilt assembly and any table mounted thereon are tiltable about a transverse axis between a head up position (e.g, 30.degree. head up) and a head down position (e.g., 30.degree. head down). Greater degree of tilt in one direction can be provided if desired. Also shown is a limit stop mechanism for retaining a tilting assembly including pivot arms in a horizontal position.

Abstract: Mobile imaging table for transporting a patient and for imaging the patient using a radiographic imaging apparatus such as a CT scan, MRI apparatus, or X-ray. The mobile imaging table comprises a generally rectangular lower frame member supported on rollers, a vertically movable upper frame member, a longitudinally and horizontally movable table top which is movable between a first position for transport of a patient and a second position for imaging, and at least one linear bearing assembly for guiding the vertical movement of the upper frame member. Each linear bearing assembly comprises at least two telescoping vertical plates (or other linear bearing support members) and each vertical plate has at least one (preferably two) vertically extending linear bearings mounted thereon. Either a pair of longitudinally extending linear bearing assemblies (one on either side of the mobile imaging table) or a single transverse linear bearing assembly may be provided.

Abstract: A stretcher for supporting incapacitated individuals that may be selectively positioned by two pairs of hydraulic cylinders located near each end thereof is shown. The piston rods associated with each such pair, located together with their respective cylinders on opposite sides of the stretcher, are mechanically interconnected for stability, while the cylinders associated with such pairs are hydraulically interconnected so that the cylinders can operate in tandem. The cylinder pairs each have their own pumps, operated simultaneously by a foot lever, as well as remotely controlled valving, enabling the pairs to be operated together, or independently of each other. Included pressure relief valving avoids equipment-damaging, excessive hydraulic pressures, and certain adjustable components of the stretcher are provided with spring-loaded tapered lock assemblies which allow the components to be secured in selected positions.