Overhead Crane Type Or Detached Surrounding Frame Patents (Class 5/85.1)
  • Patent number: 11925584
    Abstract: A medical suspension bridge includes a cross beam, a suspension pipe and a moving module. The cross beam is connected with the suspension pipe. The moving module is movably connected with the cross beam. The cross beam includes a load-bearing beam. The moving module includes a cable carrier moving plate extending to the upper portion of the load-bearing beam. The medical suspension bridge further includes a cable carrier. One end of the cable carrier is connected to the load-bearing beam, and the other end is connected to the cable carrier moving plate. Since cables such as electric wires and air pipes within a box body which needs to be moved are collectively mounted within the cable carrier, not only the routing is more tidy, but also the cables can be well protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: Maquet (Suzhou) Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Bing Wei, Jiasheng Huang, Jin Xuan, Qunhua Li
  • Patent number: 11833095
    Abstract: A slingbar includes a sling attachment member and an actuating mechanism. The sling attachment member includes a frame, a portion of which defines an opening, the frame and opening defining an interior of the sling attachment member and a closure element. The actuating mechanism includes a cam and a linkage arranged to be driven by the cam and to operate the closure element in response to motion of the cam thereby causing the closure element to block or expose the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: LIKO Research & Development AB
    Inventors: Andrew Dole, Chris Hildenbrand
  • Patent number: 11717457
    Abstract: A lift system includes a hoist module, a support assembly which is movable relative to the hoist module, and a control system. The control system is adapted to enable a user to a) issue an operational command which causes the support assembly to move to an operational destination, and b) issue a stowage command which causes the support assembly to move to a stowage destination. The control system is also adapted to A) disregard the stowage command provided at least one condition is satisfied and/or B) encumber issuance of the stowage command Equivalently, the control system adaptation is to A1) disregard the stowage command provided at least one stowage contraindication condition is satisfied or A2) not disregard the stowage command provided at least one stowage noncontraindication condition is satisfied and/or B) encumber issuance of the stowage command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: Liko Research & Development AB
    Inventors: Neal Wiggermann, James Ledwith, Jessica Cushman, Sravan A. Mamidi, Jesse Newman
  • Patent number: 11707393
    Abstract: A method of rotating a subject includes arranging a lifting aid underneath the subject such that a midline of the subject is off center from a centerline of the lifting aid in a direction opposite of the rotation direction. The lifting aid includes a first loop extending in the rotation direction and a second loop extending in the opposite direction. The method further includes connecting the loops to a sling bar coupled to an overhead lift and directing the overhead lift to raise, where the subject rotates towards the direction of rotation due to the off center location of the subject. The method further includes repositioning the subject when the subject has rotated to a lateral recumbent position and directing the overhead lift to lower, thereby causing the subject to continue rotating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: LIKO RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT AB
    Inventors: Neal Wiggermann, Michael Buccieri, Alejandro Noe Conejo Castaño, Morgan Dreyer, Jie Zhou, Lori Ann Zapfe
  • Patent number: 11660243
    Abstract: The invention relates to a prone position device that is modular and has universal integration capability, for an effortless transition to a prone position in patients suffering from SARS-CoV-2 or any acute respiratory distress syndrome through the use of a mechanical means that may be fitted into a full spectrum of beds to support a multitude of resting positions for the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Inventor: Stephen J Kuperberg
  • Patent number: 11452653
    Abstract: A body-weight support system that allows individuals with severe gait impairments to practice over-ground walking in a safe, controlled manner is disclosed. The system includes a body-weight support system that rides along a driven trolley and can be controlled in response to the movement of the subject using the system. They system is also configured to apply strong, yet brief perturbations to a subject as they are stationary or performing a dynamic task, such as walking, side stepping, etc., via the trolley of a body weight support system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2022
    Inventor: Joseph Hidler
  • Patent number: 11154444
    Abstract: A medical bed for automatically rolling a patient from back to either side to help avoid the pressure points causing decubitus ulcers. A footboard is provided with a pair of driving mechanisms to independently move a first carriage and a second carriage. The driving mechanisms each translate force to a corresponding unpowered third carriage and fourth carriage on the headboard. The first and third carriages are connected by a first roller shaft. The second and fourth carriages are also connected by a second roller shaft. The first roller shaft and second roller shaft are connected to opposing parallel edges of a sheet. The first and second roller shaft each independently spool the edges of the sheet. As the first roller shaft spools the sheet and the first and third carriages move carrying the first roller shaft, the patient is rolled in a first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Inventor: Changkuan Yu
  • Patent number: 10973342
    Abstract: The disclosure generally relates to an adjustable bed, in particular incorporating improved power management systems. In various embodiments, an adjustable bed can include a wirelessly chargeable remote control unit, one or more pulse width modulator units to provide DC power at a variety of voltages appropriate for varied peripheral electrical components of the bed, and/or a battery backup unit providing power to the bed in addition to a mains power input. The various power management systems can reduce wire clutter for peripheral electrical components, permit a wider range of peripheral electrical components to be driven by a single power supply, provide for adjustable bed operation in the absence of mains power supply, and reduce power consumption in different operation modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: ASCION, LLC
    Inventors: Alex Campbell, Martin B. Rawls-Meehan
  • Patent number: 10869797
    Abstract: A subject support system includes a sling, a clamp, and a strap coupled to the clamp. The sling includes an outer perimeter extending around and defining a support region of the sling and a visual indicator positioned along the outer perimeter of the sling. The clamp is selectively coupled to the visual indicator. The clamp is repositionable between a closed position, in which the clamp is engaged with the visual indicator, and an open position, in which the clamp is disengaged from the visual indicator. The strap coupled to the clap is configured to couple the clamp to a lift mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Assignee: LIKO RESEARH & DEVELOPMENT AB
    Inventors: Catherine Ringbjer, Anders Eriksson, Johanna Sundqvist, Asa Lundstrom
  • Patent number: 10596052
    Abstract: In the embodiments described herein, the person lifting device automatically determines if an accessory, such as a sling, is properly connected to a sling bar of the person lifting device and, if the accessory is not properly connected, the person lifting device provides a user with a visual and/or audible warning and, in some embodiments, may lock-out the actuation controls of the person lifting device to prevent the person lifting device from being used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: LIKO RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT AB
    Inventors: Mattias Andersson, Andreas Bolin, Marica Demby, John V. Harmeyer, Roger Karlsson, Douglas A. Seim, Varad Narayan Srivastava
  • Patent number: 10420690
    Abstract: A monitoring system comprises a lift assembly configured to lift a patient; a control system configured to control operation of the lift system; and a reporting system in communication with the control system and configured to receive operational information for the lift assembly. The reporting system compares the operational information to a predetermined set of values to determine if the operation of the lift is in compliance with the protocols.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: Liko Research & Development AB
    Inventors: Steven A. Dixon, David Ribble
  • Patent number: 10413468
    Abstract: A patient handling system comprising a patient support apparatus having a patient support surface, a component, and a force generating device inducing movement or assisting in movement of the component, and a sheet for covering at least a portion of the patient support surface, and the sheet coupled to the component wherein when the force generating device is operated to induce movement or assist in movement of the component, the movement induces the sheet to move relative to the patient support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Martin W. Stryker, Cory Patrick Herbst, Brian J. Tessmer, Christopher Ryan Sweeney, Steven D. Pikaart
  • Patent number: 10376434
    Abstract: In the embodiments described herein, the scale assembly automatically determines if an accessory, such as a sling, is properly connected to a sling bar of the person lifting device and, if the accessory is not properly connected, the scale assembly provides a user with a visual and/or audible warning and, in some embodiments, may lock-out the actuation controls of the person lifting device to prevent the person lifting device from being used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: Liko Research & Developmetn AB
    Inventors: Mattias Andersson, Andreas Bolin, Marica Demby, Peter Rydstrom, Douglas A. Seim
  • Patent number: 10292885
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a multifunctional critical care system and an operation method thereof. A lifting frame disposed on the bed body, a bed plate and a plurality of lifting bands are disposed at the lifting frame, and a tensioning mechanism is disposed on the lifting frame; The bed plate comprises vertical elevating mechanisms, a transverse telescopic mechanism disposed between the vertical elevating mechanisms; the lifting frame is connected to a tilting mechanism; fastening the lifting bands to lifting bands fastening devices, actuating the vertical elevating power mechanisms; actuating the transverse telescopic power mechanism; actuating the tensioning power mechanism; and actuating the transmission power mechanism. The nursing care mechanism facilitates replacement of bed sheets, ventilating the back, letting the patient laid on their left or right side, cleaning and wiping the body, defecation; and combines the functions of a nursing equipment, a sickbed, and a wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignees: SICHUAN XINGZHI ZHIHUI INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY OPERATION CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chunping Tong
  • Patent number: 9839569
    Abstract: A body weight support system includes a trolley, a powered conductor operatively coupled to a power supply, and a patient attachment mechanism. The trolley can include a drive system, a control system, and a patient support system. The drive system is movably coupled to a support rail. At least a portion of the control system is physically and electrically coupled to the powered conductor. The patient support mechanism is at least temporarily coupled to the patient attachment mechanism. The control system can control at least a portion of the patient support mechanism based at least in part on a force applied to the patient attachment mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2017
    Assignee: MannGroup,LLC
    Inventors: Joel Behnke, Todd Cushman, Erol Erturk, Arkady Glukhovsky, Kelvin J. Hasseler, Keith McBride, Moshe Olim, Perry Payne, Kenneth A. Regas, William H. Schwiebert, Daniel Scott Weinstein
  • Patent number: 9737449
    Abstract: An assembly and a method for covering a Hoyer Lift sling. The sling assembly includes a cover positioned over a top side of a Hoyer lift sling. The cover has a hole therethrough which is positioned over the hole of the sling. A retaining sheet is attached to the cover and also has a hole therethrough which is positioned in alignment with the hole of the sling. In addition, a pad having a corresponding hole therethrough is preferably positioned between the sling and the cover. At least a portion of the retaining sheet is received through the hole of the pad and through the hole of the sling so that this portion of the retaining sheet is positioned beneath the bottom side of the sling. The cover on top of the sling and the portion of the retaining sheet beneath the sling each extend beyond the width of the sling and have outer edge portions which are attached together so that the sling and the pad are thereby retained between the cover and the retaining sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Annette Howell
  • Patent number: 9463128
    Abstract: A lift apparatus for lifting a patient comprises a sling bar (60) adapted to have a sling (110) secured thereto, a controller (138) and a status indicator (160) responsive to the controller for indicating the status of at least one parameter associated with the lift apparatus. The associated parameters comprise height, speed, sling securement state, sling compatibility, and fault state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: Liko Research & Development AB
    Inventor: Chun-Piaw Ng
  • Patent number: 9192535
    Abstract: A patient lateral repositioning system to move a patient positioned on a patient support of a bed. The system includes a mounting and a pulling system. To enable strength and compactness of the entire system, the mounting is a constructive element removably attached to the support surface to form an integrated structure able to withstand a pulling force to move the patient on any type of a bed positioned apart and independent from the patient lateral repositioning system and the support surface. The pulling system is a set of components including at least one retainer, a guiding element, a drive, a gripper and at least one flexible pulling cable supported by the guiding element and connecting the drive with the gripper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Inventors: David Sverdlik, Alla Sverdlik, Bella Dishell
  • Patent number: 9149401
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for preventing decubitus ulcerations including a frame having a pair of frame supports spaced from each other. A mattress is supported on the frame between the frame supports. A pliable support material extends between the supports. The material is adapted to support an individual thereon in a generally recumbent position. A lift mechanism is disposed on the frame and operably connected to the support material. The lift mechanism adjusts the tension of the material so that the support has a first position resting on the mattress and a second position wherein the support is raised above the mattress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Inventors: Thomas Davenport, Steven Stavrides
  • Patent number: 9056748
    Abstract: The lifting system and method comprises a winch and pulley system, the pulleys being adapted to be mounted to a wall of a structure, the winch being mounted to a tube assembly, said tube assembly comprising a tube and winch plate, wherein said tube is slideably and removably coupled to a receiver portion such that the winch may be removed when not in use or may be moved to be used in another system; wherein said receiver portion is coupled to a substructure upon which a cooler structure is mounted; wherein, a first pulley is mounted to an outside wall of said structure; wherein said second pulley is positioned at an end of a lifting arm, said arm being coupled to an inside wall of the structure; wherein a through opening is provided in said wall so that a winch cable may be threaded from the winch outside the structure, through the first pulley, through said wall opening, and over said second pulley; and wherein an end of said cable may be secured to a motor in the interior of said structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2015
    Inventor: Richard L. Sears
  • Patent number: 8966678
    Abstract: A lift apparatus used for lifting and moving a person or object. The apparatus has a frame, wheels, a lift mechanism, a lift rod, an overhead support arm movable to a laterally extended position on a selected side of the apparatus, a rotatable head, a collar that is vertically movable along the head, an outrigger support with a bar pivotably affixed to the base frame and rotatable to the selected side of the apparatus, and an locking mechanism for retaining the bar on the side of the apparatus. A hanger on the overhead arm supports a load. A control system controls the lift mechanism. When the bar extends onto the selected side of the apparatus and the collar is in a predetermined vertical position along the head, the control system activates the lift mechanism and the overhead support arm is rotatable only to the selected side of the lift apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: Mogens Jessen
  • Patent number: 8904577
    Abstract: 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 “T” 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Michael P. Osika
  • Patent number: 8898830
    Abstract: A patient support and transport system for a multi-modality medical suite includes a track system with one track in one room aligned with another track in another room. A support carriage coupled to the track system and configured to move between the two rooms. A duplex socket interface module attached to the support carriage and flexible raceway including a first conduit management system coupled to the support carriage and configured to automatically couple with and decouple with the duplex socket interface module. A second conduit management system is coupled to electrical and data ports and include a conduit interface module configured to automatically couple with and decouple with the duplex socket interface module. The patient support and transport system also includes a vertical support member coupled to the support carriage and a support assembly coupled to the vertical support member configured to selectively articulate a patient bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Medtrak Holding Company, LLC
    Inventor: Stephen G. Hushek
  • Patent number: 8875322
    Abstract: Robotic posture transfer assist devices for assisting a posture transfer of a patient in a bed may include a device body, a stabilizer coupled with the device body and the bed, and at least one robotic arm having a plurality of degrees of freedom, wherein the robotic arm may be coupled with the device body. Robotic posture transfer assist devices may further include an end-effector removably coupled with the robotic arm, a controller module that provides a control signal to the robotic arm to control a movement of the robotic arm about the plurality of degrees of freedom, and a user input device that provides a command signal to the controller module to command the movement of the robotic arm, wherein the control signal provided by the controller module corresponds with the command signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Ota, Masaru Ryumae, Keiichi Sato, Shin Sano, Srinidhi Kaushik
  • Patent number: 8850635
    Abstract: A patient positioning system and a rail for use in the system. According to one embodiment, the system includes first and second stationary rails arranged parallel to one another. First and second sets of mounting assemblies are used to fix the first and second stationary rails, respectively, to a ceiling. A traverse rail is slidably coupled to the stationary rails. The system also includes a harness for holding a patient and a motorized assembly for raising and lowering the harness, the harness being slidably coupled to the traverse rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Joerns Healthcare, LLC
    Inventor: Dewey Darrow
  • Publication number: 20140259392
    Abstract: The application is directed to a system operationally configured to assist individuals with performing one or more activities including, but not necessarily limited to moving from one location to another, showering, using a mirror, using a sink, bathing, using a toilet, performing one or more leisure activities, and combinations thereof. In one aspect, the system may include an assembly and transport member connected thereto, the assembly including a bed and/or bath and/or toilet and/or personal item storage system and/or entertainment system integrated with one or both of smart and manual processes operationally configured to assist individuals with performing one or more activities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Chih-Cheng Chen, Izuchukwu Samuel ILonze
  • Publication number: 20140259391
    Abstract: A patient lift system includes a lift housing, a base lift strap having a first end coupled to a lift housing and a second end coupled to a sling bar. The base lift strap is infection controlled. In one embodiment, a protective sleeve covers the base lift strap, wherein the protective sleeve has a first end and a second end. In another embodiment, the base lift strap is chemically treated to provide infection control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Liko Research & Development AB
    Inventors: Roger KARLSSON, Mattias ANDERSSON, Lars EKLOF, Laetitia GAZAGNES, Josh SHENK
  • Publication number: 20140223661
    Abstract: A gantry system supports a human user in a harness attached to a carriage on a track. The carriage may comprise a body defining a U-shaped or C-shaped opening sized to receive a cylindrical track, and a pair of wheels attached to the body that roll along a top portion of the track with sufficiently minimal drag to permit the user to move the carriage without assistance. Single track embodiments may have a straight or curved trajectory and may have intersecting track portions with junctions that move between the intersecting track portions. In other embodiments, the carriage traverses a perpendicular track spanning a pair of parallel tracks. The perpendicular track may traverse the parallel tracks with or without motorized assistance. A counterweight system may provide partial weight support for the user. In one embodiment, the tracks are supported by a collapsible free-standing structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: University of Delaware
    Inventors: James Cole Galloway, Ralph D. Cope, Nanette Gopez, Steven A. Cope, Tim Braucht, Kim Ferrara
  • Patent number: 8793822
    Abstract: A patient lifting and transfer device is shown which includes a pair of vertical columns having a horizontal bar connected between the two columns. There is provided a mobile support that is rotatively mounted to the lower portion of each vertical column. Each mobile support is elongated and rotatable from a first position where the elongated mobile support extends generally perpendicular to the horizontal bar to a second position where the mobile supports extend generally parallel to the horizontal bar. In the second position, the patient lifting and transport device is relatively narrow and can be moved through close quarters and also stored in relatively small areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: American Sling and Lift Company, LLC
    Inventors: Willis E. Martin, Rodney Barr
  • Patent number: 8789219
    Abstract: A lift apparatus has a frame with open sides and a web assembly slidably retained along the sides which extends from one end of the frame to the other. While the web assembly is retracted, the frame moves to pass around a mobility-impaired individual and rest against the surface supporting the individual. The web assembly is then extended to move underneath or behind the individual, providing lifting support. The frame is configurable for orientations ranging continuously between horizontal and upright sitting. The web assembly has an upper web contacting the individual, a lower web contacting the support surface, a strength layer carrying the individual's weight, and a roller nose bar assembly which is pulled to extend the web assembly. A hand-held power tool can drive the web assembly, adjustment of inclinations of the back and leg sections of the frame, and vertical motion of the lift arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventors: Richard A. Patterson, Roy M. Patterson
  • Patent number: 8756735
    Abstract: A patient helper apparatus for use with a patient support is disclosed. The patient helper apparatus includes a first L-shaped support tube coupled to the patient support, a shaft coupled to the first L-shaped support tube and extending over the patient support, and an egress handle coupled to the first L-shaped support tube. The egress handle moves between a stowed position and an assist position. In the stowed position, the egress handle is situated inside a footprint of the patient support. In the assist position, the egress handle extends outside the footprint of the patient support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard H. Heimbrock, Edward J. Koors, Jonathan D. Turner, David W. Hornbach
  • Patent number: 8726431
    Abstract: A patient repositioning system to move and fix a patient body and/or a limb of a patient body in any sequence of multiple operations with positive body or limb support at any angle of rotation or repositioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventors: David Sverdlik, Alla Sverdlik
  • Patent number: 8701226
    Abstract: A patient hoist is provided on a trolley which tides along a track, with the hoist being powered by a conductor extending along the track. A contact carrier is loosely fit within the trolley, and it bears a contact which elastically biased against the track conductor, with die contact being in electrical communication with the hoist: The contact carrier is tree to laterally displace with respect to the trolley so that it (and its contact) follows the contour of the track, with the contact remaining in electrical communication with the track conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Arjohuntleigh Magog Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Faucher, Michael Molinar, Michael Corriveau, Jocelyn Patry
  • Publication number: 20140075669
    Abstract: A movement system for use with an overhead patient lift system includes a motor. A drum is operatively coupled to the motor. The drum is configured to be selectively driven by the motor to rotate in one of a clockwise direction and a counter-clockwise direction. A lifting strap is coupled to the drum. The lifting strap is extendable and retractable with respect to a carriage of the overhead patient lifting system as the drum rotates. A manual release operatively coupled to the drum is actuatable to selectively disengage the drum from the motor to allow the lifting strap to be manually extended. Also disclosed is an overhead patient lift system including the movement system and a method for manually extending a lifting strap of an overhead patient lift system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: Liko Research & Development AB
    Inventors: Mattias Andersson, Roger Karlsson, Andreas Gelfgren
  • Patent number: 8671475
    Abstract: In one embodiment, an example patient movement apparatus and methods for its use enable an EMS crew to load a patient disposed in an ambulance chair and/or in an ambulance stretcher into an ambulance, unload the patient from the ambulance, and otherwise move the patent within the ambulance, for example, from the ambulance chair to the ambulance stretcher. The patient movement apparatus may comprise a patient cradle in which a patient is wrapped, a loading ramp that spans between ground level and the level of the floor of the rear of the ambulance, a winch secured within the rear of the ambulance and having a retractable winch cable, an articulating arm secured within the rear of the ambulance and having a pulley to accommodate the winch cable, and/or one or more cable guides secured within the rear of the ambulance and that accommodate the winch cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventor: Yevgeniy Radzinsky
  • Patent number: 8671474
    Abstract: A patient lift support frame assembly, comprising a patient-lift-carrying member, and first and second support members for carrying the patient-lift-support member. The support members are telescopically configured, and can be extended manually, with an actuator to push a ceiling pad against a ceiling for greater stability. The support member are selectively lockable against being shortened, using gears and a cam, or other lock. The ceiling bearing element is spring loaded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Prism Medical Ltd.
    Inventor: Mark P. Chepurny
  • Patent number: 8650675
    Abstract: A suspended patient-carrier/transport apparatus of the type including an overhead rail forming a horizontal track terminating at a track-end, and a carrier device supported by a carriage having a plurality of aligned rollers rideable along the track. The inventive suspended transport apparatus has a locking safety mechanism including a track-end detector and a locking device. The locking device is operatively connected with respect to the track-end detector which actuates the locking device to engage the rail thereby stopping the carriage on the track upon sensing an absence of the track beyond the track-end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Karl Imhoff
  • Patent number: 8635720
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for handling and moving bedridden or mobility impaired patients. In at least one embodiment, the system includes a vertical arm that is arranged in a vertical cabinet, which vertical arm is connected to an arm that is pivotal in a horizontal plane arranged in a horizontal overhead cabinet, the arms being adjustable from an inactive and secured position arranged in the cabinets to an active position arranged outside the cabinets. The horizontal overhead cabinet is connected to the arm that is pivotal in a horizontal plane, and follows the movement of the arm from an inactive and secured position to an active position. A drive unit is further connected to the arm that is pivotal in a horizontal plane, which drive unit via at least a wire or the like is connected to a removable lifting bar. In an inactive and secured position of the system for handling and moving bedridden patients or mobility impaired persons, the horizontal overhead cabinet will house the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Integra International AS
    Inventor: Skjalg Aabakken
  • Publication number: 20140020175
    Abstract: A monitoring system comprises a lift assembly configured to lift a patient; a control system configured to control operation of the lift system; and a reporting system in communication with the control system and configured to receive operational information for the lift assembly. The reporting system compares the operational information to a predetermined set of values to determine if the operation of the lift is in compliance with the protocols.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventors: Steven A. Dixon, Nelda R. Johnson, Benjamin E. Howell, William Brian Bishop, Christian Saucier, David M. Girardeau, Joshua W. Shenk, Kelli F. Rempel, Richard J. Schuman, Whitney Pesot, Erik Roehl, Elin Dovervik, David Lundberg, Hanna Youngstrom, Catherine Ringbjer, Ronnie Arespong, Lars Eklof
  • Publication number: 20140013503
    Abstract: A monitoring system comprises a lift assembly configured to lift a patient; a control system configured to control operation of the lift system; and a reporting system in communication with the control system and configured to receive operational information for the lift assembly. The reporting system compares the operational information to a predetermined set of values to determine if the operation of the lift is in compliance with the protocols.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventors: Steven A. Dixon, David Ribble
  • Patent number: 8607378
    Abstract: A caregiver assist device for use with a patient support apparatus is disclosed. The caregiver assist device including a support structure, a boom, a helper belt, and a constant force spring assembly. The boom extends from the support structure over the patient support apparatus. The helper belt is supported along the boom and has a first end and a second end. The constant force spring assembly includes a constant force spring coupled between the support structure and the first end of the helper belt so that a constant counterbalancing force is applied to the helper belt in response to a patient force being applied to the second end of the helper belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua J. Moriarity, Thomas K. Skripps, Andrea L. Lewis, Peter A. Rankis
  • Patent number: 8584275
    Abstract: A device and associated method transfer a person having a handicap from one location to another, such as into or out of a wheelchair, bed, or bathtub. A wheeled base provides mobility to the device. A post and lifter arm support the patient during the transfer. The post is connected to a stabilization arm, which temporarily connects using a stabilization interface to a stabilization bracket. The stabilization bracket is typically attached rather permanently to a wall, ceiling, or other structural feature that provides substantial stability to the system. In various embodiments, the lifter arm may be actuated by hydraulics, the stabilization arm may be extendable, and a pair of extra wheels on the mobility base are adjustable horizontally (e.g., along one hedge of the base frame) or vertically (down to decrease the load on the casters, or up to allow the lifter to be “crabbed” sideways in confined spaces).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Rehabilitation Research of Evansville, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard L. Nelson, Robert M. Levy
  • Patent number: 8572774
    Abstract: An apparatus for moving a limb of a bedridden person, including a substantially “T” shaped member including a first member having a first end and a second end and a second member secured transversely to the second end of the first member, a pulley secured above the bedridden person, and, a cable secured to the first end of the first member, the cable supported and arranged for movement about the pulley.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Michael P. Osika
  • Patent number: 8555578
    Abstract: A movable door element in a door of a multimodality medical suite. The door is in a wall positioned between a first room and a second room of the suite, with the suite including a flexible raceway configured to extend within the length of the suite and selectively extend through a portion of the door, the door element including a housing and a shield component. The housing is coupled to the door and configured to selectively move from a first position to a second position. The housing is further configured to move to the second position when a shield door component, coupled to the raceway, displaces the housing and is disposed in a space in the portion of the door vacated by the door element. The shield component disposed in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: MedTrak Holding Company, LLC
    Inventor: Stephen G. Hushek
  • Patent number: 8505135
    Abstract: A bedridden patient transfer gurney is provided, which includes a gurney body, and further includes several support feet installed with a swivel caster at the bottom. A top end of each support foot is connected to the gurney body. An elevation device is disposed on the support foot. Two curved panels opposite to each other having a shape of a grab bucket are disposed at a lower portion of the gurney body. When being closed, the two curved panels are capable of accommodating a human body. An opening and closing device is disposed between the gurney body and the two curved panels. The opening and closing device is respectively connected to the gurney body and the two curved panels. The bedridden patient transfer gurney is used for transferring a bedridden patient, has a simple structure and an advantage of convenient use, and ensures good stability when the patient is being transferred, thereby preventing the patient from experiencing more pain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Xianhui Zeng
  • Patent number: 8499379
    Abstract: Robotic posture transfer assist devices for assisting a posture transfer of a patient in a bed may include a device body, a stabilizer coupled with the device body and the bed, and at least one robotic arm having a plurality of degrees of freedom, wherein the robotic arm may be coupled with the device body. Robotic posture transfer assist devices may further include an end-effector removably coupled with the robotic arm, a controller module that provides a control signal to the robotic arm to control a movement of the robotic arm about the plurality of degrees of freedom, and a user input device that provides a command signal to the controller module to command the movement of the robotic arm, wherein the control signal provided by the controller module corresponds with the command signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Ota, Masaru Ryumae, Keiichi Sato, Shin Sano, Srinidhi Kaushik
  • Patent number: 8468623
    Abstract: A lift apparatus has a frame with open sides and a web assembly slidably retained along the sides which extends from one end of the frame to the other. While the web assembly is retracted, the frame moves to pass around a mobility-impaired individual and rest against the surface supporting the individual. The web assembly is then extended to move underneath or behind the individual, providing lifting support. The frame is configurable for orientations ranging continuously between horizontal and upright sitting. The web assembly has an upper web contacting the individual, a lower web contacting the support surface, a strength layer carrying the individual's weight, and a roller nose bar assembly which is pulled to extend the web assembly. A hand-held power tool can drive the web assembly, adjustment of inclinations of the back and leg sections of the frame, and vertical motion of the lift arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventors: Richard A. Patterson, Roy M. Patterson
  • Patent number: 8458827
    Abstract: A patient positioning system and a rail for use in the system. According to one embodiment, the system includes first and second stationary rails arranged parallel to one another. First and second sets of mounting assemblies are used to fix the first and second stationary rails, respectively, to a ceiling. A traverse rail is slidably coupled to the stationary rails. The system also includes a harness for holding a patient and a motorized assembly for raising and lowering the harness, the harness being slidably coupled to the traverse rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: Dewey Darrow
  • Patent number: 8402576
    Abstract: The invention relates to a patient lifting frame for use with an invalid hoist for lifting and supporting an invalid patient. Such a lifting frame can be used in conjunction with a wheeled or overhead mechanical or electrical hoist unit, to assist nursing staff, healthcare staff or carers in lifting and moving disabled patients. This lifting frame may also be used in many different areas to carry able bodied people in safety for operations such as air sea rescue service.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Life Lift (Medical Products) Limited
    Inventor: Simon Christopher Dornton Walker
  • Patent number: 8397320
    Abstract: The patient lifting device includes a transverse beam that supports a movable lift assembly to move a patient relative to at least one of a bed or chair. The transverse beam spans between a pair of support structures and allows the lift assembly to move horizontally along the transverse beam to move the patient horizontally relative to the bed or chair. At one of the transverse beam ends, the lift assembly contacts a charging station. The charging station charges a battery, that is carried by the lift assembly, to power the lift assembly. The lift assembly is powered to move a patient vertically upward and downward. A power source is electrically coupled to the charging station to provide electrical power to charge the battery of the lift assembly through the charging station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Guido Capaldi