Abstract: A foot pedal mechanical linkage system is provided in a hydraulic stretcher used for transporting patients. Two hydraulic jacks are mounted on the stretcher's carriage at opposite ends of the stretcher, and they vertically adjust the stretcher's litter on which a patient rests. A first foot pedal assembly at one end of the stretcher and a second foot pedal assembly at the other end activate the hydraulic jacks. A linkage assembly connects the first and second foot pedal assemblies. An operator of the stretcher can raise or lower either end of the stretcher separately or together from either end of the stretcher using the foot pedal and linkage assemblies.

Abstract: A vehicle is provided for use in hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities for transporting patients between various locations while in a prone, reclining, or sitting position. The vehicle includes a first member on which the patient is placed, and a second member disposed beneath the first member and in supporting engagement therewith. The second member, sometimes referred to as the undercarriage, includes an elongated flexible chassis having a center section and endwise offset end segments. Disposed at opposite ends of the chassis and secured to corresponding end segments are depending end sections. Wheels or the like are attached to the depending end sections. Resilient, shock-absorbing elements are interposed the end sections and the offset end segments secured thereto whereby external forces impacted on the wheels while the vehicle is in motion are substantially absorbed by the resilient elements and by chassis flexure.