And Wheels Or Free Traveling (e.g., Gurney Or Convertible Wheelchair Type) Patents (Class 5/86.1)
  • Patent number: 6766547
    Abstract: A wheeled patient support assembly that allows a patient and at least one medical attendant to be moved while the medical attendant(s) administer medical treatment to the patient comprising a patient support surface, rolling mechanisms or other means for moving the assembly over the floor, at least one attendant support platform(s) built into or connected with the assembly and constructed to support the weight of one or more attendant(s) and being positioned so the attendant(s) can safely stand on the platform section(s) and treat the patient while the assembly is being moved, and including safety railings to prevent the attendant(s) from falling off the assembly. Further, the assembly is designed and constructed to be stable to prevent it from tipping, leaning or becoming unstable while in use. The object of the invention is to allow a patient to be moved simultaneously while emergency medical care is administered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: Paul J. Lagassey
  • Publication number: 20040139545
    Abstract: A stretcher includes a brake mechanism and a steer mechanism operated by side actuator pedals and a brake-actuating bar and a wheel-actuating bar. The brake-actuating bar, wheel-actuating bar, and side actuator pedals are connected such that movement is coordinated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventors: Christian H. Reinke, Jonathan D. Turner, Richard H. Heimbrock
  • Publication number: 20040111798
    Abstract: In a stretcher (100) comprising an upper frame (11) for placing a litter on an upper portion thereof having casters (41) and (42) in the front and rear portions, and a slide mechanism for changing up/down the position of the upper frame (11), the stretcher (100) is provided with a non-step stopper mechanism for stopping the sliding in the slide mechanism in a non-step manner. As a result, the height of the stretcher (100) can be changed up/down smoothly without rendering pain or uneasiness to a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventors: Shigeyuki Matunaga, Hiromi Matuki
  • Patent number: 6742206
    Abstract: A nurse robot has a stand and a supporting assembly. The supporting assembly is mounted on the stand and has a seat, a backrest, a leg plate, step plate, a first driving device and a second driving device. The seat is attached to the stand. The backrest is pivotally attached to one end of the seat plate. The leg plate is pivotally attached to the other end of the seat. The step plate is pivotally attached to the other end of the leg plate. The first driving device is attached to the seat to drive the backrest and the leg plate to pivotally rotate relative to the seat. The second driving device is attached to the leg plate to drive the step plate to pivotally rotate relative to the leg plate. Accordingly, a patient can conveniently move to any desired place without any other person's help.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Inventor: Tai-Kang Han
  • Patent number: 6742201
    Abstract: A person-transfer device comprises: a stand defining a support polygon; a pole rising vertically from the stand; a rest assembly for the lower limbs of a person, the rest assembly being pivotally mounted on the pole; and a person transfer system adapted to move within the support polygon between an initial position and a final position, which positions are angularly offset relative to each other, the transfer system being mounted on the pole, being provided with a suspension assembly for the upper limbs that is pivotally mounted on the pole to pivot about an axis that is inclined relative to the vertical and that is designed to be placed at a high level so as to turn under the effect of the weight of the suspended person to a low level, thereby enabling the person to be transferred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: IDC Medical
    Inventor: Franaois Porcheron
  • Patent number: 6738999
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for facilitating, in handicapped patients, undressing, dressing and access to body parts between the waist and knees of the patient. The apparatus includes a seat (20) and a back support (10) which between them form an open region (11) in which a person located in the apparatus is not supported. The seat and the back support are disposed to be displaced between positions in which the person is placed in positions where the major proportion of the patient's weight is carried by the seat or in which the major proportion of the patient's weight is carried by the back support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Arjo Hospital Equipment AB
    Inventors: Hans Lingegård, Bo Persson, Håkan Hagström, Deni Dimovski
  • Publication number: 20040093668
    Abstract: A patient-support apparatus comprises a lower frame having a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side. The patient-support apparatus also has an upper frame supported above the lower frame and movable relative to the lower frame. A plurality of casters are coupled to the lower frame. A mattress is carried by the upper frame. Elevation adjustment pedals are adjacent both of the first and second sides of the lower frame and are adjacent only one of the first and second ends of the lower frame. The elevation adjustment pedals are movable to change the elevation of the upper frame relative to the lower frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventors: Richard H. Heimbrock, William K. Moore, Donald E. Smith, William M. Blyshak, Jonathan T. Turner
  • Patent number: 6735794
    Abstract: An ambulance stretcher having a wheeled base (11) supported by foldable leg assemblies (16, 17). Castors (313, 393) are provided on the leg assemblies for providing improved mobility of the stretcher. The front castors (313) are selectively locked by a locking mechanism (30) to either allow the castors to swivel or roll in a single direction. The locking mechanism is accessible on both sides of the stretcher. Activation of the locking mechanism on either side of the frame selectively locks or unlocks both front castors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher B. Way, Craig C. Mulder
  • Patent number: 6718573
    Abstract: A mobile invalid hoist comprises a non-rectilinear lifting arm pivotably connected about first horizontal axis to the upper end of mast, a housing pivotably connected about second horizontal axis to one end of the lifting arm and supporting a vertical bearing, a sling hanger support pivotably supported about a vertical or substantially vertical axis by the bearing, and a sling hanger pivotably supported about a third horizontal axis by the sling hanger support. A flexible elongate element is connected between the mast and housing, and is guided through the lifting arm to effectively form with the lifting arm a parallelogram linkage. Thus, as the lifting arm pivots, the housing pivots in relation to the lifting arm and the bearing is kept vertical or substantially vertical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Arjo. Med. Aktiebolag Limited
    Inventor: Philip Von Schroeter
  • Patent number: 6718572
    Abstract: An invalid hoist includes a lifting arm, an actuator between the lifting arm and a mast, the lifting arm being pivotably connected to the upper end of the mast at a position intermediate its ends and the actuator being connected to the lifting arm on the side of the pivotable connection between the lifting arm and the mast remote from said one end of the lifting arm, and a connecting link pivotably connected between one end of the actuator and the lifting arm (or mast). The connecting link is connected between the actuator and the lifting arm (or mast) such that an auxiliary link incorporating a load cell can be additionally and removably connected between the actuator and the lifting arm (or mast) and such that any load applied to the lifting arm is transmitted entirely through the auxiliary link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Arjo. Med. Artiebolog Limited
    Inventor: Philip von Schroeter
  • Patent number: 6718571
    Abstract: A patient support mechanism has a patient gurney for the delivery and removal of a patient, the patient gurney having a removable bed board, and having a stationary patient bed provided for the acceptance of the bed board or having a stationary supporting part provided therefor at an imaging medical system such as, for example, a CT installation, an angiography device or a NMR installation. The patient gurney has carriages that are transversely displaceable toward both sides for accepting the bed board and for shifting the bed board from the patient gurney onto the patient bed or onto the supporting part and vice versa. A patient gurney having two double T-shaped supports that are centrally connected to one another by a longitudinal support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Frank Bartels
  • Patent number: 6701545
    Abstract: A multiple level elevating cot adapted to be rolled into emergency vehicles, the cot having a wheeled undercarriage supporting a cot frame having a leading end and a trailing end, and adapted to selectively secure the cot frame in a plurality of elevational positions. The cot frame includes a pair of side extension arms provided between the leading end and the trailing end, each of the side extension arms being adapted to slidably extend outwardly from a stowed position adjacent the cot frame to an extended position substantially perpendicular to the cot frame. The cot frame may form a part of an integral stretcher or may serve as a carrier to which a separable top structure, such as a stretcher/stair chair, may be detachably secured, the cot frame including seats for slidably receiving the top structure and latching means for securing the top structure to the cot frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Ferno-Washington, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Henry Ferneau, Bret William Smith, William Harry Benedict, Eugene VanDyne
  • Patent number: 6694545
    Abstract: The invention provides a lifting apparatus with variable and independently selectable height and reach which comprises a base supporting a lifting structure. The lifting structure comprising two upwardly extending variably extendible support structures, an arm having a proximal end portion and an intermediate portion, which are pivotally connected to an upper end portion of respective ones of said variably extendible support structures; and a load support structure depending from a distal end portion of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Andrew Lamont Renton
  • Patent number: 6691349
    Abstract: A cantilevered mobile bed/chair apparatus for safely transferring a patient from and to a hospital type bed comprises three hinged together segments forming back, seat and foot platforms operating in conjunction with a four wheeled, rectangular base. The hinged together platforms convert from a fully adjustable chair mode to a bed mode by a first jack located beneath the seat platform. The platforms are raised and lowered by a second jack associated with a telescoping tower attached to an E frame. The telescoping tower is mounted vertically from one side of the rectangular base, and when extended, has a height greater than a hospital bed. The E frame, which supports the platforms, is cantilevered horizontally from the top portion of the telescoping tower, and the height thereof is controlled by the second jack mounted together with the bottom portion of the telescoping tower, to the wheeled base. The side edges of the platforms are beveled or angled downward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Jerry Blevins
  • Publication number: 20040019967
    Abstract: Assistance apparatus is provided for assisting a person into and out of bed. Such apparatus includes a chassis for positioning beside a bed and a torso support structure pivotally mounted on the chassis for supporting the torso of the person needing assistance. The torso support structure enables the person to move from a vertical position to a horizontal position as the torso support structure pivots from a vertical to a horizontal position, and vice versa. The assistance apparatus also includes a person support seat located on the chassis and an actuator mechanism for causing the seat to tilt to an inclined position for assisting the person to move to a standing position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Dwane C. Gant
  • Patent number: 6684424
    Abstract: A mobile veterinary gurney having a base frame member supporting a plurality of wheels, an elevation scissor frame member mounted on the base frame, and a gurney table mounted on the elevation scissor frame, there being mounted on the elevation scissor frame member a manually actuated, pressurized gas cylinder cooperative with the base frame member for controlling the opening and closing of the elevation scissor frame member and allowing the elevation of the gurney table to be locked at a selected height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: Frank Jehn
  • Patent number: 6679510
    Abstract: An ambulatory device having a frame having support rails, two large rear wheels containing hand grasps, two small front wheels for steering, a foldable seat allowing the user to sit when desirable, and a height-adjustable support frame having a vertical and horizontal section rising from the frame. A body halter holding the user is optionally rotatably supported by a horizontal support bar which is connected by connector ropes or cables to a T-shaped support bar. Alternatively, the body halter is directly connected to connector ropes which pass by pulleys or through horizontal tubular sections to attach to a scale. The support frame is made height adjustable by a winch or a hydraulic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Max C. Perena
  • Patent number: 6668402
    Abstract: A stretcher includes an elongated frame having an upper frame and a lower frame. A patient-support deck is supported by the upper frame and includes a patient-support surface. Casters are mounted to the lower frame and a pair of push bars are mounted to the upper frame. Each push bar includes a handle post that can be gripped by a caregiver to push the stretcher. Each push bar is mounted to the upper frame for movement between a push position having the handle post extending above the patient-support surface and a down-out-of-the-way position having a portion of the push bar located underneath the upper frame. The stretcher also includes a pair of latches coupled to the upper frame to pivot about respective axes between lock positions engaging the push bars to lock the push bars in the push positions and release positions allowing the push bars to move between respective push positions and down-out-of-the-way positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard H. Heimbrock
  • Patent number: 6665894
    Abstract: A computerized controller that limits the movement of a patient lifting device, wherein the controller is operated in a normal mode to sense the lateral rotation of a lifting arm that lifts patients and the linear displacement of extendable support legs for said lifting device and the angular diversion of said support legs. The controller inhibits movement of said lateral rotation of a lifting arm in response to the linear displacement and the angular diversion of the support legs to prevent tipping the lifting device. The same controller may be operated in a bypass mode to override the normal mode wherein the patient lifting device may be operated during a setup and breakdown operation to permit construction and disassembly of the patient lifting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Millennium Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Louis Moffa, Richard Howard Tuft
  • Patent number: 6662388
    Abstract: A patient lifting device designed to impart a vertical and corresponding horizontal force component upon a load, namely an ill or incapacitated person in a bed. This vertical and horizontal force results in an incapacitated bed ridden patient being physically adjusted substantially horizontally in a hospital bed, for instance being pulled towards the top of the bed after having migrated towards the bottom of the bed as is quite common. The device utilizes a lifting assembly, a base supporting said lifting assembly, a vertically adjustable shaft, a horizontal load bearing boom-like member for attaching said horizontal load bearing member and a generally flat flexible sheet upon which the patient is supported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventors: Evelyn M. Friel, John D. Friel
  • Patent number: 6654973
    Abstract: A lift-assisted device including a seat portion; a seat support portion which supports the seat portion; a base portion; an undercarriage portion which comprises of at least one scissor linkage member, each scissor linkage member including a first member pivotable connected to a second member near a center portion of the first and second member; a pneumatic bag located between the seat portion and the base portion; a pneumatic cylinder located between the seat portion and the base portion; a pneumatic powering means for powering the pneumatic bag and/or pneumatic cylinder and wherein the first member and second member are slidably connected to the seat portion on one end and fixedly connected to the base portion on an opposite end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Tech Lift, Inc.
    Inventors: Christian Van Den Heuvel, Francis M. LeGasse, Jeffrey R. Hattem, Joseph L. LeGasse, Michael Catoe
  • Patent number: 6651280
    Abstract: A patient lifter has a patient support platform that made be lowered until it touches the floor. Once in this position, it is a simple matter for a single person to place a patient who is prone on the floor onto the patient platform. Once on the platform, the patient support platform can be raised to a height sufficient to transfer the patient onto a bed or chair. The invention has many different devices for raising and lowering the patient support platform which may be chosen. The device is provided with wheels so that it may be easily transported to the site of the patient and be used to move the patient from place to place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Jerry Blevins
  • Publication number: 20030213064
    Abstract: The present invention is a transfer and transport device and method for moving a patient from a bed to another location within a medical facility. The transport device includes an integral transfer mechanism for transferring a patient from a hospital bed to the device and back.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventor: Daniel T. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20030208844
    Abstract: A computerized controller that limits the movement of a patient lifting device, wherein the controller is operated in a normal mode to sense the lateral rotation of a lifting arm that lifts patients and the linear displacement of extendable support legs for said lifting device and the angular diversion of said support legs. The controller inhibits movement of said lateral rotation of a lifting arm in response to the linear displacement and the angular diversion of the support legs to prevent tipping the lifting device. The same controller may be operated in a bypass mode to override the normal mode wherein the patient lifting device may be operated during a setup and breakdown operation to permit construction and disassembly of the patient lifting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventors: Anthony Louis Moffa, Richard Howard Tuft
  • Patent number: 6643869
    Abstract: A patient transfer platform that is used by the patient to lift himself/herself using his/her upper body strength to a supported position on a non-slip platform rollable on lockable wheels or casters which is then easily maneuvered about even when supporting the patient so that many partially disabled persons could remain in their homes with their families instead of being institutionalized. A method of transferring a patient that utilizes the patient transfer platform is also provided. The patient transfer platform includes a patient support deck assembly, a support frame having four frame legs secured to the patient support deck assembly and a rear trailing arm assembly secured to the patient support deck assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventors: Eldon J. Sloan, Jr., Ronald T. Sloan
  • Patent number: 6640364
    Abstract: A pedestal for use with a patient transport system for multiple imaging systems can include a support member configured to support a patient or object of interest, an elongated planar member coupled to the support member and configured to removably couple and slidably engage an elongated cradle member, and a docking assembly coupled to the elongated planar member configured to engage the receipt of and the removal of the elongated cradle member supportable by the elongated planar member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technololgy Company, LLC
    Inventors: Sean S. Josephson, Jason I. Subirana
  • Publication number: 20030167567
    Abstract: A hoist for lifting a person includes support wheels, a steering arrangement and a drive arrangement including a motive driven wheel (or wheels) for engaging the ground surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2003
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: Edward Reed
  • Patent number: 6611975
    Abstract: A motorized bed assembly for allowing a user to easily transport individuals with various physical challenges. The motorized bed assembly includes a bed assembly that includes a support assembly and a frame assembly. The support assembly is pivotally coupled to the frame assembly. A drive assembly is coupled to the bed assembly such that the drive assembly is for propelling the bed assembly along a surface. A control assembly is operationally coupled to the drive assembly such that the control assembly is for controlling the drive assembly. The control assembly is coupled to the frame assembly of the bed assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: Roy D. Ricketts
  • Patent number: 6598247
    Abstract: A mechanism for initiating movement of a stretcher includes a drive wheel, and a lever or pedal actuated assembly. Moving the pedal or the lever moves a flexible drive link which is wound around a hub of the drive wheel. As the flexible drive link is pulled and unwound from the hub, the drive wheel engages the floor and rotates a sufficient distance to overcome inertia and align the swivel wheels of the stretcher in the desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard H. Heimbrock, Jonathan D. Turner, Stephen R. Hamberg, D. Scott Manlove, Donald E. Smith, Robert Mark Zerhusen
  • Publication number: 20030110560
    Abstract: A patient lifting device designed to impart a vertical and corresponding horizontal force component upon a load, namely an ill or incapacitated person in a bed. This vertical and horizontal force results in an incapacitated bed ridden patient being physically adjusted substantially horizontally in a hospital bed, for instance being pulled towards the top of the bed after having migrated towards the bottom of the bed as is quite common. The device utilizes a lifting assembly, a base supporting said lifting assembly, a vertically adjustable shaft, a horizontal load bearing boom-like member for attaching said horizontal load bearing member and a generally flat flexible sheet upon which the patient is supported.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventors: Evelyn M. Friel, John D. Friel
  • Publication number: 20030110561
    Abstract: A person-transfer device comprises:
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2002
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Applicant: IDC Medical
    Inventor: Francois Porcheron
  • Patent number: 6575491
    Abstract: Described is a collapsible cart for transporting items from a first surface to a raised surface. The collapsible cart comprises a platform, for carrying items thereon, wherein the platform comprises a front edge and a back edge. A collapsible front leg is attached to the platform. The collapsible front leg comprises an front upper leg and a front lower leg. Connected to the front upper leg and to the front lower leg is a spring biased to rotate the front lower leg towards an extended position relative to the front upper leg. A front release mechanism persuades the collapsible front legs to be withdrawn towards the platform. A collapsible rear leg is also attached to the platform. The collapsible rear leg comprises a rear upper leg, a rear lower leg and a spring connected there between biased to rotate the rear lower leg towards an extended position relative to the rear upper leg. A rear release mechanism allows the collapsible rear leg to be withdrawn towards the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Timothy J. Miller
  • Patent number: 6568002
    Abstract: Aid apparatus for raising a disabled person from a sitting position to a standing position, which apparatus includes a wheeled base in the form of a U-formed frame having a post, which supports a lifting device. The lifting device includes a lifting arm arrangement having a free end, which can be raised and lowered in relation to the base and supports the lifting sling. The aid apparatus may turn over if the person leans at one side in a standing position and a fork-shaped lateral support is therefore arranged, the open end of which opens in the direction from the post and surrounds the upper part of the body when the person is in the standing position. The breadth of the fork-shaped lateral support corresponds to the person's breadth and is not larger than the breadth of the U-formed base. The fork-shaped lateral support being arranged not swingable in relation to an axis, which is perpendicular to the plane of the U-formed base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Liko Research & Development AB
    Inventor: Gunnar Liljedahl
  • Patent number: 6560799
    Abstract: A support mechanism system has a mechanism base at which a support plate for accepting a treatment and/or examination subject can be detachably attached, and a transport gurney and at least two support plates that are fixable at the transport gurney. One of the support plates is fashioned as an operation plate for carrying out a surgical intervention at a subject, and the other a radiological support plate having at least one radiation-transparent region. Either plate can be optionally attached to the base by a fastening arrangement that is compatible with both plates. The base also has at least one connector for providing operation support for an implement or component used in a surgical procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Michael Pflaum, Reinhard Zitzmann
  • Patent number: 6557189
    Abstract: An invalid positioning device comprising a support structure, a lifting element which is angularly displaceable about a main horizontal axis relative to the support structure, and a power operated mechanism for pivoting the lifting element about the the main horizontal axis. The power operated mechanism is arranged such that the torque applied by the power operated mechanism decreases as the lifting element moves away from one extreme position and increases again as the lifting element approaches its other extreme position and such that the angular speed of the lifting element increases as it moves away from one extreme position and decreases as it approaches its other extreme position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Arjo Limited
    Inventor: Philip Von Schroeter
  • Publication number: 20030070227
    Abstract: A mobile invalid hoist comprises a non-rectilinear lifting arm pivotably connected about first horizontal axis to the upper end of mast, a housing pivotably connected about second horizontal axis to one end of the lifting arm and supporting a vertical bearing, a sling hanger support pivotably supported about a vertical or substantially vertical axis by the bearing, and a sling hanger pivotably supported about a third horizontal axis by the sling hanger support. A flexible elongate element is connected between the mast and housing, and is guided through the lifting arm to effectively form with the lifting arm a parallelogram linkage. Thus, as the lifting arm pivots, the housing pivots in relation to the lifting arm and the bearing is kept vertical or substantially vertical.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Philip Von Schroeter
  • Patent number: 6539562
    Abstract: A lifting and walking aid having a framework (1) constructed of a lower horizontal frame (2a-2c) provided with small casters (9), an upper horizontal frame (2d-2f) provided with lifting means, and a vertical frame (2g-2n) secured to both the upper and lower horizontal frames (2a-2c) and (2d-2f). The framework comprises a plurality of substantially rectilinear tubular members (2a-2y) which are connected to each other so as to allow for a quick disassembling of the framework (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Bianca Dellapiana Italy
    Inventor: Dellapiana Bianca
  • Patent number: 6526611
    Abstract: A stretcher comprised of a roller base, a scissor-type lift frame having a lower end rotatably connected to the base, a tubular undercarriage rotatably and slidably connected to an upper end of the frame, a foldable rigid support positionable over the undercarriage, a soft, foldable cushion positionable over the support and connected thereto to prevent disassociation therefrom, and first and second side-arm supports rotatably connected to the undercarriage. The undercarriage includes first and second longitudinal frame members and first and second movable end extensions. Internal to each of the longitudinal frame members is a releasably locking mechanism to lock the stretcher at a predetermined height. The internal locking mechanism is releasable allowing the stretcher to be vertically adjusted by either one or two thumb triggers, located at one of the movable end extensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Ferno-Washington, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey T. Flynn, Christopher S. High, Jerry L. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20030024048
    Abstract: A stretcher includes an elongated frame having an upper frame and a lower frame. A patient-support deck is supported by the upper frame and includes a patient-support surface. Casters are mounted to the lower frame and a pair of push bars are mounted to the upper frame. Each push bar includes a handle post that can be gripped by a caregiver to push the stretcher. Each push bar is mounted to the upper frame for movement between a push position having the handle post extending above the patient-support surface and a down-out-of-the-way position having a portion of the push bar located underneath the upper frame. The stretcher also includes a pair of latches coupled to the upper frame to pivot about respective axes between lock positions engaging the push bars to lock the push bars in the push positions and release positions allowing the push bars to move between respective push positions and down-out-of-the-way positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Richard H. Heimbrock
  • Patent number: 6510567
    Abstract: A folding wheel chair assembly has at least one fold-down platform that permits the person on the seat to be moved laterally to another seat. The fold-down platform is on a mounting rod that folds upward and them may be turned to a position behind the wheel chair set out of the way when the wheel chair is being moved from one position to another. There may be a fold-down platform on each side of the wheel chair so that a person maybe moved from the wheel chair from either side. The wheel chair may include an adjustment device to raise or lower the position of the chair seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Inventor: Dennis L. Robbins
  • Patent number: 6505359
    Abstract: A stretcher for transporting a patient along a floor includes an elongated frame, a patient-support deck carried by the frame, and an elongated shaft having a longitudinally-extending axis of rotation. The shaft is coupled to the frame for rotation about the axis of rotation between a first orientation and a second orientation. The stretcher also includes a wheel supported relative to the frame and movable relative to the frame in response to rotation of the shaft. The wheel is in a first position engaging the floor when the shaft is in the first orientation and the wheel is in a second position spaced apart from the floor when the shaft is in the second orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard H. Heimbrock, William K. Moore, Donald E. Smith, William M. Blyshak, Joanthan T. Turner
  • Publication number: 20030000013
    Abstract: An invalid hoist includes a lifting arm, an actuator between the lifting arm and a mast, the lifting arm being pivotably connected to the upper end of the mast at a position intermediate its ends and the actuator being connected to the lifting arm on the side of the pivotable connection between the lifting arm and the mast remote from said one end of the lifting arm, and a connecting link pivotably connected between one end of the actuator and the lifting arm (or mast). The connecting link is connected between the actuator and the lifting arm (or mast) such that an auxiliary link incorporating a load cell can be additionally and removably connected between the actuator and the lifting arm (or mast) and such that any load applied to the lifting arm is transmitted entirely through the auxiliary link.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Applicant: ARJO LIMITED
    Inventor: Philip von Schroeter
  • Patent number: 6499163
    Abstract: An apparatus convertible to a chair or table comprises a support structure; first and second pairs of wheels rotatably supporting the support structure; and a platform supported by the support structure. The platform includes a seat support and a back support. The platform is positionable between a chair configuration and a table configuration. The first pair of wheels have inboard and outboard positions. The first pair of wheels are in the inboard position when the platform is in the table configuration. The first pair of wheels are in the outboard position when the platform is in the chair configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Inventor: Harold Stensby
  • Patent number: 6484332
    Abstract: A patient transfer system is provided for quick, easy and comfortable movement of a patient between horizontal and vertical positions and between lateral locations for medical procedures. The system includes a gurney with a patient positioning board pivotally mounted thereon for movement between horizontal and upright positions. The board is adapted to receive a patient mold. A footrest is provided at the lower end of the board such that a patient can step onto the footrest when the board is in the upright position and lean against the board. The board is then lowered to a horizontal position on the gurney. The gurney can be wheeled into position adjacent a treatment table in a treatment room, such as for radiation therapy, and docked to the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Med-Tec Iowa, Inc.
    Inventors: Clayton P. Korver, II, Dana M. Dawson, John G. Schmitz, Charles B. Reinert
  • Publication number: 20020170110
    Abstract: A wheelchair convertible into a gurney that includes a main frame, a rear frame and a supplemental rear frame pivotally secured to the rear frame. The main frame includes a back portion pivotally secured to a seat portion which is pivotally secured to a leg portion. The rear frame is pivotally secured to the back portion. A guide arrangement is provided that coacts with the supplemental rear frame and the main frame whereby the main frame is in a first position. The back portion, seat portion and leg portion are arranged so that they are in different planes and when the main frame is in a second position, the back portion, seat portion and leg portion are arranged so that they are in a gurney position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: Graham L. Hodgetts
  • Patent number: 6473921
    Abstract: A bed resting on a floor includes a base frame, a plurality of casters coupled to the base frame and configured to engage the floor, a first brake coupled to the base frame, a foot pedal actuator movable between a first position and a second position, and a second brake coupled to the base frame. A linkage is configured to couple the second brake to the first brake so that when the foot pedal actuator is moved to the second position, the first and second brakes both move to a braking position and when the foot pedal actuator is moved to the first position the first and second brakes both move to a releasing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason C. Brooke, Michael J. Mutka, William S. Larisey, Jr., Reza Hakamiun, James F. Thomas, Kendall O. Shows
  • Patent number: 6449785
    Abstract: Aid apparatus for raising a disable person from a sitting position to a standing position including a wheeled base (1) in the form of a U-shaped frame with a post (3), which supports a lifting arm arrangement (5, 7), to which can be attached a lifting sling (9), which surrounds at least partly the body of the person. The object is now to avoid that the person will be lifted in his armpits and also to make the lifting motion stable. The lifting arm arrangement (5, 7) therefore includes two arms (7), the free ends of which have a hook (8), in which a belt (9) having four bands (10, 11, 16, 17) can be hooked on in such a way that the belt surrounds the person overlapped just under breast-high.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Liko Research & Development AB
    Inventor: Gunnar Liljedahl
  • Patent number: 6430761
    Abstract: An improved portable patient transfer device comprising a small wheeled base having a vertically disposed telescoping lifting column extending upwardly therefrom. A patient support means extends from the column to support the patient. A crank, accessible to both patient and attendant, is used to raise and lower the lifting column for transfer between surfaces with different heights, such as beds, wheelchairs, and car seats. The lift my be closed and temporarily attached to a wheelchair for convenient transport with a patient. The lift is small and lightweight and may be easily transported and stored. The lift is further economical to manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Take-Along Lifts LLC
    Inventors: Alexander Brandorff, Gerard Michael Campbell
  • Patent number: 6427263
    Abstract: A roll coach for moving patients to and from a hospital bed is disclosed. It comprises a frame, a movable bunk mounted on said frame, a lifting mechanism connecting the bunk with the frame and operative to move the bunk in a vertical direction, and a tilting mechanism operative to tilt the bunk such as to bring the side of the bunk in contact with the bed surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Inventor: Tom Lindell
  • Patent number: 6427270
    Abstract: A cantilevered mobile bed/chair apparatus for safely transferring a patient from and to a hospital type bed comprises three hinged together segments forming back, seat and foot platforms operating in conjunction with a four wheeled, rectangular base. The hinged together platforms convert from a fully adjustable chair mode to a bed mode by a first jack located beneath the seat platform. The platforms are raised and lowered by a second jack associated with a telescoping tower attached to an E frame. The telescoping tower is mounted vertically from one side of the rectangular base, and when extended, has a height greater than a hospital bed. The E frame, which supports the platforms, is cantilevered horizontally from the top portion of the telescoping tower, and the height thereof is controlled by the second jack mounted together with the bottom portion of the telescoping tower, to the wheeled base. The side edges of the platforms are beveled or angled downward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Inventors: Jerry L. Blevins, James W. Blevins