Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
SYSTEMS, METHODS AND TRANSFER SHEETS FOR TRANSFERRING
PATIENTS
BACKGROUND
This disclosure relates generally to patient transport in hospital and
clinical
environments, and other medical or patient care settings. In particular, the
disclosure
relates to the physical process of patient transfer from one surface to
another, for
example between beds or gurneys in an operating room, or in an examination,
laboratory,
treatment or recovery location.
In the day to day operations of a hospital, many patients are moved. In many
instances, patients are ambulatory and can move from a hospital bed to a
wheelchair to
be moved yet again. Many patients are not ambulatory. These patients must also
be
moved with the assistance of nursing and medical staff. Non-ambulatory
patients are
moved from a hospital bed to a gurney whenever there is a need to move a
patient to a
new area. Once moved to the new area, they are moved again into a new room or
other
environment.
When a patient undergoes surgery, even the ambulatory patient is generally
rendered non-ambulatory due to the effects of anesthesia. Generally, the
anesthesia does
not wear off shortly after concluding the operation. A patient is generally
moved from
the operating table in an operating suite to a bed in a recovery room. In the
recovery
robm, the patient is observed until they "wake up" after the anesthesia wears
off. In the
recovery room, a nurse can also keep an eye on many patients in the event
something
should go wrong shortly after an operation.
' Once the patient awakens or recovers sufficiently, the patient is then moved
again
to a hospital room. Most patients are rendered non-ambulatory by virtue of the
operation. As a result, the nursing and medical staff must move the patient
onto a gurney
for transport back to the recovery room. Generally, the patient stays on the
gurney while
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in the recovery room. Upon recovery, the patient is then moved on the gurney
to the
hospital room. Once at the hospital room, the patient is moved from the gurney
to the
hospital bed by medical staff, or the nursing staff.
A common prior art device used to move a patient is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
The transportation (or transport) device 100 includes a number of elongated
rollers 110
(or 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 166, 117) that are covered by a mesh cloth or
vinyl belt 130.
A sheet of material 150 is wrapped around the device 100. The patient is
rolled from a
supine position to a lateral decubitus position (a so called "log roll"), at
which time the
device is placed between the patient and the surface of the bed or gurney, or
other
surface on which the patient is lying. The patient is then rolled from the
lateral decubitus
position back to a supine position onto the device and the cloth material 150
covering the
device 100. The patient is rolled onto the device 100 with the assistance of
nursing or
medical staff.
At this point, the patient is generally only partially on the device 100. The
medical or nursing staff may have to push and/or pull the patient across the
device to
effect a transfer across surfaces. Once on the transportation device 100, the
patient must
be pushed and/or pulled across and over the device 100. The patient rolls over
the
transportation device 100 and the individual rollers as the patient is
transported to the
next surface.
The current device has potential problems. The ride for the patient may be
uncomfortable, as the dorsal aspect of the patient does not move smoothly
across the belt
surface due to the open spaces between the rollers, which are located beneath
the belt.
This bumpy ride is stressful on patients being transported. For example,
patients that
have just completed an operation are many times still being monitored during
transport
and into the recovery room. The monitoring information taken during transport,
such as
heart rate, ECG (electrocardiograph), blood pressure, and respiratory rate
show that the
patient undergoes stress.
Another potential problem is related to the hospital staff, such as the
nursing staff
or medical staff. In moving the patient, the staff must bend over two surfaces
and push
and/or pull the patient. This method is inherently inefficient due to accepted
principles
of physics, e.g., friction. This can cause injuries and resulting workman's
compensation
claims. Also, for patients of significant size and/or weight, additional
hospital staff may
be required for the physical task of moving the patient from one surface to
another with
the existing transportation device. These injury and labor force issues can
add
substantially to the cost of operating a hospital.
SUMMARY
Various examples and embodiments described herein relate to a method and a
system for transferring objects, such as patients or other bodies, in a
hospital or clinical
setting, for example in an operating suite. Additional examples and
embodiments relate to
patient transfer devices, patient transfer systems, and materials for use with
such systems,
including, but not limited to, single-use transfer sheets configured for
patient transfer
using the patient transfer devices. Further examples and embodiments relate to
devices,
systems and methods for transferring a patient or other body between surfaces,
for
example between beds, gurneys or other locations in a hospital operating room,
and in
other clinical, laboratory, examination, treatment, transportation and
recovery
environments.
Accordingly, in one aspect, the present invention resides in a single-use
transfer
sheet for a patient transfer device comprising a continuous belt disposed
about a bridge
spaced between two sides of a housing, the transfer sheet comprising: a
structural base
layer; an absorbent layer disposed on the base layer; a permeable layer
disposed on the
absorbent layer, wherein the absorbent layer is disposed between the base
layer and the
permeable layer; an adhesive area on a bottom surface of the base layer,
opposite the
absorbent layer and the permeable layer; and a tab extending over the adhesive
area, the
tab configured for removal therefrom and the adhesive area configured for
attachment of
the base layer to the continuous belt of the patient transfer device, wherein
the transfer
sheet is configured to be pulled by a caregiver to transfer a patient from a
first surface to a
second surface using the device, the transfer sheet having a minimum pull
strength
sufficient to withstand a pull force of at least 150 N and a yield limit
selected for the
transfer sheet to yield when exceeding a pull force limit of 880 N, wherein
the yield limit
is selected for the transfer sheet to act as a mechanical fuse to provide a
failure warning
when exceeding a safe pull force limit.
Accordingly, in another aspect, the present invention resides in a method of
loading the aforementioned single-use transfer sheet onto the patient transfer
device, the
method comprising: removing a tab extending over the area of the adhesive;
attaching the
base layer to the continuous belt of the patient transfer device with the
adhesive; and
translating the continuous belt to load at least a portion of the single-use
sheet into the
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housing, wherein the single-use sheet extends from the housing and over a top
surface of
the bridge on the continuous belt.
Accordingly, in a still further aspect, the present invention resides in a
method of
using the aforementioned single-use transfer sheet further comprising:
spanning a gap
between the first and second surfaces with the device; and transferring the
patient
between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the patient is
supported on the
bridge in conveying relationship with the single-use transfer sheet attached
to the
continuous belt.
Accordingly, in a still further aspect, the present invention resides in a
transfer
sheet configured for transferring a patient on a transfer device comprising a
bridge
disposed between two sides of a housing, the transfer sheet comprising: a
structural base
layer; an absorbent layer disposed on the base layer; and a permeable layer
disposed on
the absorbent layer, wherein the absorbent layer is disposed between the base
layer and
the permeable layer; wherein the transfer sheet is configured to be pulled by
a caregiver
to transfer the patient from a first surface at a first side of the device and
over the bridge
to a second surface at the second side of the device, the transfer sheet
having a minimum
pull strength sufficient to withstand a pull force of at least 150 N and a
yield limit
selected for the transfer sheet to yield when exceeding a pull force limit of
880 N,
wherein the yield limit is selected for the transfer sheet to act as a
mechanical fuse to
provide a failure warning when exceeding a safe pull force limit.
Accordingly, in a still further aspect, the present invention resides in a
patient
transfer apparatus comprising: a housing with first and second opposing sides
coupled to
first and second opposing ends, the ends dimensioned for the housing to span a
distance
between a first surface proximate the first side and a second surface
proximate the second
side; a support bridge positioned at least partially within and coupled to the
housing,
wherein the support bridge is spaced between the first and second sides and
supported by
the housing to define a channel therein; a continuous belt disposed for motion
about the
support bridge and extending through the channel defined in the housing, the
continuous
belt configured to transfer a patient from the first surface at the first side
of the housing to
the second surface at the second side of the housing; and a single-use
transfer sheet
removably attached to the continuous belt with a portion inserted into the
channel
between the continuous belt and the housing, wherein the single-use transfer
sheet is
configured for transferring the patient from the first surface to the second
surface by
pulling on the single-use transfer sheet to place the patient onto the
continuous belt such
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that the patient is supported on the support bridge in conveying relationship
with the
continuous belt.
Accordingly, in a still further aspect, the present invention resides in a
method for
transferring a patient from a first surface to a second surface, the method
comprising:
spanning between the first surface and the second surface with a patient
transfer apparatus
comprising a housing with first and second opposing sides coupled to first and
second
opposing ends, the ends dimensioned for the housing to span a distance between
the first
surface proximate the first side and the second surface proximate the second
side;
removably attaching a single-use transfer sheet to a continuous belt disposed
about a
support bridge positioned at least partially within and coupled to the
housing, wherein a
portion of the single-use transfer sheet is inserted into a channel between
the continuous
belt and the housing; and transferring the patient from the first surface to
the second
surface by pulling on the single-use transfer sheet to place the patient on
the continuous
belt disposed about the support bridge, wherein the support bridge is spaced
between the
first and second sides and supported by the housing to define the channel
therein; and
wherein the support bridge is further spaced from the first and second sides
of the housing
to support the patient in conveying relationship with the continuous belt
disposed for
motion about the support bridge and extending through the channel defined in
the
housing, the single-use transfer sheet and continuous belt configured to
transfer a body of
the patient from the first surface at the first side of the housing to tlw
second surface at the
second side of the housing with the body supported on the support bridge in
the
conveying relationship with the continuous belt.
Accordingly, in a still further aspect, the present invention resides in
method for
transferring a patient from a first surface to a second surface, the method
comprising:
spanning between the first surface and the second surface with a patient
transfer device,
the device comprising a housing with first and second opposing sides coupled
to first and
second opposing ends, the first surface proximate the first side and the
second surface
proximate the second side; and transferring the patient from the first surface
to the second
surface on a continuous belt disposed about a support bridge positioned at
least partially
within and supported by the housing, wherein the support bridge is spaced from
the first
and second sides of the housing to support the patient in conveying
relationship with the
continuous belt; wherein spanning between the first and second surfaces
comprises
spanning a gap between the first and second surfaces with the patient transfer
device; and
further comprising extending a transfer sheet from the device toward the
second surface,
wherein the transfer sheet extends a length from a side of the patient in
conveying
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relationship with the continuous belt; wherein the length is selected to
reduce a wrist-hip
distance for a caregiver in transferring the patient from the first surface to
the second
surface.
Accordingly, in a still further aspect, the present invention resides in a
single-use
transfer sheet for a patient transfer device comprising a continuous belt
disposed about a
bridge spaced between two sides of a housing, the sheet comprising: a
structural base
layer; an absorbent layer disposed on the base layer; a permeable layer
disposed on the
absorbent layer, wherein the absorbent layer is disposed between the base
layer and the
permeable layer; an adhesive area on a bottom surface of the base layer,
opposite the
absorbent layer and the permeable layer; and a tab extending over the
adhesive, the tab
configured for removal therefrom and the adhesive configured for attachment of
the base
layer to the continuous belt of the patient transfer device; wherein the
transfer sheet has a
minimum pull strength and a yield limit, wherein the yield limit is greater
than the
minimum pull strength and the yield limit is selected for the transfer sheet
to act as a
mechanical fuse.
Accordingly, in a still further aspect, the present invention resides in a
method
comprising: attaching a single-use sheet to a continuous belt of a patient
transfer device,
the single-use sheet comprising a substantially impervious base layer, a
permeable layer,
and an absorbent layer bonded therebetween, wherein the base layer has an
adhesive area
foi iemovable attachment to the continuous belt, tianslating the continuous
belt about a
bridge support disposed within a housing of the patient transfer device,
wherein the
bridge support is coupled to opposing sides of the housing and spaced from
opposing
sides thereof to define a pathway for motion of the continuous belt through
the housing;
extending an exposed end of the single-use sheet from the housing over a top
surface of
the bridge support, on the continuous belt; and further comprising: spanning a
gap
between first and second surfaces with the device; transferring a patient
between the first
surface and the second surface, wherein the patient is supported on the bridge
in
conveying relationship with the single-use transfer sheet attached to the
continuous belt;
isolating the single-use transfer sheet from contact with the first surface in
transferring the
body across the support bridge and onto the second surface; and leaving the
single-use
transfer sheet beneath the patient on the second surface, wherein the single-
use transfer
sheet and patient transfer device are configured to reduce a probability of
cross-
contamination from the first surface to the second surface.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art patient transportation device.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the prior art patient transportation device,
with a
sheet of material wrapped around the device.
FIG. 3 is a top view of a patient transfer system according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 is a top view of the patient transfer system in an embodiment with a
continuous belt.
FIG. 5 is a top view of the patient transfer system with the continuous belt
and a
portion of the support system removed.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the patient transfer system.
FIG. 7 is a partial cut away view of the single-use transfer sheet, according
to an
exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the single-use transfer sheet.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a wall mounted bracket for storing the patient
transfer system, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
disclosure.
FIG. 10 is an end view of the wall mounted bracket.
FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a method for operation of a patient transfer
device
and transfer sheet, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
disclosure.
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FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a supplemental transfer sheet for use in the
transfer device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
disclosure.
FIG. 13 is a schematic view of the transfer device with a drive system,
according
to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration of the control system, in an embodiment
responsive to sensors used to detect the position of the patient.
FIG. 15 is a flow diagram for a method of controlling the patient transfer
device,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration of a computing system configured to
execute a
set of instructions for performing a method of controlling the patient
transfer device,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 17A is a perspective view of an alternate wall mounted bracket for
storing
the patient transfer device, according to another exemplary embodiment of the
present
disclosure.
FIG. 17B is a side view of the wall mounted bracket, according to a further
exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 17C is a perspective view of a wheeled cart for the patient transfer
device,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG 1R A is a perspective
view the patient transfer device, according to an
alternate embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 18B is an end view of the patient transfer device, according to the
embodiment of FIG. 18A.
FIG. 18C is a top view of the patient transfer device, according to the
embodiment of FIG. 18A.
FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a transfer sheet for use with the patient
transfer
device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 19B is a bottom view of the transfer sheet, according to an alternate
embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 20A is a top view showing an alternate configuration for the transfer
sheet.
according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 20B is a bottom view of the transfer sheet, according to the embodiment
of
FIG. 20A.
FIG. 20C is a perspective view of a transfer sheet loaded onto the patient
transfer
device.
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FIG. 21 is an illustration of a patient transfer device in use, according to
an
exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 22A is a perspective view of the patient transfer device, according to
the
embodiment of FIG. 21.
FIG. 22B is an end view of the patient transfer device, according to the
embodiment of FIG. 21.
FIG. 22C is a bottom view of the patient transfer device, according to the
embodiment of FIG. 21.
FIG. 23A is a profile view of the patient transfer device, illustrating the
.. positioning surfaces or feet.
FIG. 23B is a detail view of the patient transfer device, illustrating the
sloped side
transition and contoured edge configuration.
FIG. 24A is a cross-sectional end view of the transfer device, in a roller
bridge
embodiment.
FIG. 24B is a cross-sectional end view of the transfer device, in a roller-
less
bridge embodiment.
FIG. 24C is a cross-sectional end view of the transfer device, in a beltless
bridge
embodiment.
FIG 25A is a perspective view of the patient transfer device, with the bridge
removed.
FIG. 25B is an exploded view of the patient transfer device, according to the
embodiment of FIG. 25A.
FIG. 26A is a front view of an alternate storage configuration for the patient
transfer device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
disclosure.
FIG. 26B is an illustration of a method for attaching a transfer sheet to the
device,
according to the storage configuration of FIG. 26A.
FIG. 26C is an illustration of a method for loading the transfer sheet onto
the
device, according to the storage configuration of FIG. 26A.
FIG. 26ll is an illustration of the patient transfer device loaded with the
transfer
.. sheet, according to the storage configuration of FIG. 26A.
FIG. 27A is an illustration of dispenser system for the patient transfer
device,
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 27B is a perspective view of the device, loaded with the dispenser
system.
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FIG. 27C is an illustration of an alternate dispenser system configuration for
the
patient transfer device.
FIG. 28A is a perspective view of an ergonomic feature for the patient
transfer
device, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 28B is a perspective view of the ergonomic feature, in an alternate
embodiment.
FIG. 29A is a bottom view of a tabbed transfer sheet for a patient transfer
device.
FIG. 29B is an end view of the tabbed sheet, showing the tab or band
configuration.
FIG. 29C is an end view of the tabbed sheet, illustrating the tab deployment.
FIG. 29D is a top view of the tabbed sheet, as deployed about a patient.
FIG. 30A is a plan view of the tabbed sheet, in an alternate configuration.
FIG. 30B is a top view of the tabbed sheet, with the tabs or bands deployed.
FIG. 30C is a top view of the tabbed sheet, wrapped about a patient with the
tabs
or bands attached.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
PATIENT TRANSPORT
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art patient transport (or
transportation)
device 100. The prior art patient transport device 100 includes a number of
parallel
spaced elongated rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 which are spaced
from one
another. A frame member 120 and a frame member 122 hold the rollers in spaced
relation to one another. The frame members 120, 122 are attached to the ends
of the
rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117. Each end of the roller 111, 112,
113. 114, 115,
116, 117 is rotatably attached to the frame member 120, 122. The frame members
120,
122 are tied to one another so as to form a substantially rigid frame. The
rollers 111,
112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 are covered by a continuous belt 130. The
continuous belt
130 is sized so that it fits tightly over the rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115,
116, 117.
It should be noted that there are spaces 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146 between
the
rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117. In the spaces 141, 142, 143, 144,
145, 146
there may be essentially no support. 'Me continuous band or belt 130 of the
prior art is
generally flexible.
When supporting an object in the spaces 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146 between
the rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 the continuous hand or belt 130
flexes or
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sags. When an object is small it travels between a high position on top of a
roller 111,
112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 and lower position in a space, such as spaces
141, 142, 143,
144, 145, 146 between the rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117. When a
large
flexible object is transported using the transport device, a flexible outside
surface of the
object will travel between these positions.
In some instances, a human being is transported using the prior art transport
device 100. Human beings and other animals have an integumentary system. The
integumentary system is the organ system that protects the body from damage,
and
includes the skin and its appendages (including, e.g., hair, scales, feathers,
and nails,
depending on the corresponding animal characteristics). The integumentary
system has a
variety of functions, such as to waterproof, cushion, and protect the deeper
tissues, and to
excrete wastes and regulate temperature. The integumentary system is also the
attachment site for sensory receptors to detect pain, sensation, pressure, and
temperature.
In humans, the integumentary system is the largest organ system.
When a human body is the object being moved, first portions of the
integumentary system are supported by the elongated rollers 111, 112, 113,
114, 115,
116, 117, while adjacent portions of the integumentary system are supported at
lower
positions by the belt 130, spanning spaces 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146
between the
rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 This is due to the flexible nature
of skin in its
function to cushion organs within the body. As a human is transported over the
device
100, the skin or integumentary system undulates. This is stressful on the
body. The
stress occurs both when the human is conscious and unconscious.
During surgery, the body is carefully monitored. The monitoring continues
after
surgery. For certain medical or surgical procedures, some patients require
monitoring
during transfer from the surgical surface to the transport surface. Other
patients are also
monitored as they convalesce in a post-surgery recovery room. Monitoring
information
such as heart rate, ECG (electrocardiograph), blood pressure, and respiratory
rate
indicate that the patient undergoes stress during transfer.
In addition to producing stress, the transport device 100 also translates as
the
patient is moved. In other words, the elongated rollers 111, 112, 113, 114,
115, 116, 117
roll along the continuous belt 130, which, in turn, is rolled over the
surfaces between
which the patient is being transported. Such an arrangement can result in high
localized
loading at the rollers and may require more force to move a patient.
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FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a prior art patient transport device 100 with
a
sheet of material 150 wrapped around the patient transport device 100. In
operation, a
clean cloth material 150 is wrapped around the patient transport device 100.
'Me edge
152 of the material is generally gathered by workers on one side of the human.
The
material 150 is then pulled along the edge.
Other workers can push the human to help move or transfer the patient from one
surface to the other surface. Pushing on the human body adds to stress. The
workers
generally must bend, push and pull, and this causes the workers stress as
well, which can
result in injury.
At the end of its use, the material 150 is placed in the laundry, laundered
and
reused.
SYSTEM DESIGN
FIG. 3 is a top view of a patient transport device or transfer system 300 as
used to
move a patient or other object or body from a first surface 301 to a second
surface 302,
.. according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a
top view of
a patient transfer system 300 as used to move a patient or other body front a
first surface
to a second surface with a continuous belt, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a top view of a patient transfer system 300 as used to move a
patient
from a first surface 301 to a second surface 302, with the continuous belt 330
and a
portion of a support system 400 removed, according to an exemplary embodiment
of the
present disclosure. Specifically, the end caps and the side caps of the
housing are
removed from FIG. 5. The bridge cover material is also removed from FIG. 5.
FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of a patient transfer system along line 6-6
in
FIG. 3, according to an exemplary embodiment. Now referring to FIGS. 3-6, the
patient
transfer system or apparatus 300 will be further detailed.
The patient transfer system 300 includes a housing 310 dimensioned to span a
distance between the first surface 301 and the second surface 302. The housing
310 is
also made sufficiently strong so as to have the strength to not fail while
spanning the
distance. The patient transfer system 300 may include a first elongated roller
320
positioned along a first edge or first side cap 311 of the housing 310, and a
second
elongated roller 322 positioned along a second edge or second side cap 312 of
the
housing 310.
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The patient transfer system also includes a support system or structure 400.
The
support system 400 includes a set of individual supports 412, 414, 416 (e.g.,
as shown in
FIGS. 5 and 6). The individual supports 412, 414, 416 are attached to the end
caps 316,
318 of the housing 310. For example, individual support 412 is attached to
housing end
cap 316 at point 422 and to the housing end cap 318 at attachment point 423,
individual
support 414 is attached to housing end cap 316 at point 424 and to the housing
end
cap 318 at attachment point 425, and individual support 416 is attached to
housing end
cap 316 at point 426 and to the housing end cap 318 at attachment point 427.
A top bridge cover 421 is attached to the individual supports 412, 414, 416 to
form a bridge 420. The bridge 420 can also have a bottom bridge cover 621
(e.g., as
shown in FIG. 6). The bridge covers 421, 621 can be formed of a substantially
rigid
material, such as a low friction polymer or carbon fiber, plastic, metal or
metal
composite fiber material.
The top bridge cover 421 flexes a limited amount during transport of an
object,
such as a patient, but may be much more rigid than a belt material. The bridge
420
supports the object as it is transported using the patient transfer system
300. When the
object is a patient, the patient is supported so that the skin or the
integumentary system
undulates less than when the prior art device 100 is used. This reduces the
stress placed
on the patient when moved with the patient transfer system 300 when compared
to the
prior art device 100. 'the bridge 420, in one embodiment, forms a support
surface
having a first portion which is substantially the same height as the first
elongated roller
320 and a second portion which is substantially the same height as the second
elongated
roller 322.
The patient transfer system 300 may also include a continuous belt 330. The
continuous belt 330 is positioned in conveying relation with respect to the
first roller 320
and the second roller 322 and with respect to the bridge 420. The first roller
320, the
second roller 322, a major portion of the supports 412, 414, 416 and a major
portion of
the bridge 420 are positioned within the continuous belt 330. A portion of the
continuous belt 330 conveys the body while another portion of the continuous
belt 330
passes through the housing 310.
The housing 310 includes a bottom 314. The bottom 314 includes a first major
surface abutting the first surface 301 and the second surface 302, and
includes a second
major surface on the inside of the housing. The continuous belt 330 does not
touch the
first surface 301 or second surface 302. The continuous belt 330 passes over
the second
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major surface. In other words, the continuous belt passes over the top of the
second
major surface on the inside of the housing 310.
"[he elongated rollers 320, 322 arc positioned substantially within the
housing
310 and above the second major surface of the bottom 314 of the housing 310.
In
another embodiment, the surface of the bridge 420 of the support system 400 is
approximately the same height as one of the first end and the second end of
the housing.
The continuous belt passes over the support structure and specifically over
the support
surface as the continuous belt is moved to transfer the body. The support
surface, in
some embodiments, includes a material which lessens the friction occurring
between the
support surface and the belt.
Now looking at FIG. 6, in some exemplary embodiments, the support
structure 400 of patient transfer system 300 also includes a bottom cover 621
attached to
the supports 412, 414, 416. The cover 621 is also positioned within the
housing 310.
The cover 621 acts to guide the continuous belt 330. The cover 621 also
prevents the
continuous belt from catching on the supports 412, 414, 416. The support
system 400
includes the bridge 420 which can be thought of as a frame covered by a bridge
cover 421 and a bridge cover 621.
In another embodiment, the support system can be foliated of a solid material.
In
still other embodiments, the number of supports forming the frame can be
varied
Furthermore, different types of materials can be used for the bridge cover 421
and the
bridge cover 621. Bridge cover 421 is on one side of the supports 412, 414,
416 and
bridge cover 621 is on the other side of the supports 412, 414, 416.
In one exemplary embodiment, the continuous belt 330 is made of an elastomeric
material so as to cushion the object to be transferred. The continuous belt
330 may be
sufficiently thin so as to fit between the space between the roller 320 and
the edge 311,
and the space between the roller 322 and the edge 312 of the housing 310. The
thickness
of the belt 330 can also be selected to allow the belt to flex. In other
words, the belt
material 330 may be sufficiently flexible so that it can wrap around the
rollers 320, 322
and most of the support system 400.
If the object to be moved is a human, the elastomeric material of the
continuous
belt 330 cushions the patient during a transfer. In another embodiment, a
thinner cloth-
like material is used in the continuous belt 330. It should be noted that any
suitable type
of material that is sufficiently flexible and sufficiently thin to fit between
a roller and an
edge of the housing can be used.
¨10¨
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When the continuous belt 330 is made of an elastomeric material it somewhat
conforms to the body during transfer. When the body to transfer is that of a
human being
or animal, the conformance of the belt provides some comfort to the animal or
human
being.
The continuous belt can be sufficiently thin so as to remain clear of the
housing
during operation of the continuous belt. The continuous belt can also be
sufficiently thin
so as to allow the use of a transfer sheet. If the continuous belt is too
thick, the belt
could become caught within the housing, for example. If the continuous belt is
too thick,
it may allow the continuous belt to be used but prevent operation of the
device when a
transfer sheet is used.
In one embodiment, the first and second elongated rollers 320, 322,
respectively,
are positioned inboard with respect to the first edge or side end cap 311 and
the second
edge or side end cap 312 of the housing 310.
In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3-6, the first edge or side end cap 311 of
the
housing 310 includes a transition area 611 between a lower portion of the
housing 310
and the support surface or surface of the bridge 420. The second edge or side
end
cap 312 of the housing 310 also includes a transition area 612 between a lower
portion of
the housing 310 and the support surface or surface of the bridge 420. The
transition area
can be made, in any number of suitable shapes.
As seen in FIG. 6, the first transition area 611 and the second transition
area 612
are triangular in cross-sectional shape. The triangular-like shape allows the
housing 310
of the system 300 to be placed near the patient or object to be moved and
slightly
wedged into the space.
The less slope between the edge or end caps 311, 312 of the housing 310 and
the
bottom of the housing 314, the gentler the transition area 611, 612. The
transition
area 611, 612 is generally longer with gentler slope. The transfer device 300
will be
wider with transition areas having a gentler slope.
The width of the transfer device 300 is one consideration in the design of the
device. Other design considerations can be the comfort of a human, when the
human is
the object to be moved, or the bulkiness of the device 300 when handled by
hospital
personnel in an operating suite or around the hospital.
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TRANSFER SHEET
FIG. 7 shows a partially cut away perspective view of a transfer sheet 700,
according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 8 shows a bottom view of the
transfer
sheet 700, according to an exemplary embodiment. Depending on embodiment,
transfer
sheets 700 may be provided in single-use or disposable form, or as a multi-use
(e.g.,
washable or launderable) material. Transfer sheets 700 may also be referred to
informally as "chux" or "chucks."
In operation a transfer sheet 700 is used to provide additional cushioning and
to
provide a clean surface on which to transport a body. The transfer sheet, in
the
embodiment shown, also may include absorbent material. In another embodiment,
the
transfer sheet is formed from a permanent material and is adapted to receive
an absorbent
material. The absorbent material will absorb fluids that may be produced or
come from
the patient. Any suitable sort of absorbent material can be used.
There may be limits as to the thickness of the transfer sheet 700. The
transfer
sheet 700, when used, fits in a space between the outer surface of the
continuous belt 330
when positioned on one of the rollers 320, 322 and the edge 311, 312 of the
housing
respectively. The thickness is denoted by the variable "t" shown in FIG. 7.
The transfer sheet 700 has a width, W. In embodiments, the width, W, is less
than the width of the continuous belt 330, whereas with a width of the
transfer sheet 700
wider than the continuous belt 330, the transfer sheet 700 may bind the
transfer device
300.
Looking at FIG. 7, the transfer sheet 700 includes a bottom layer 710, an
absorbent layer 720 and a top layer 730. The various layers 710, 720 and 730
are made
of clean material. The various layers may also be made of single-use or
disposable
materials.
The top layer 730 is peimeable or will allow fluids to pass to the absorbent
layer 720. The transfer sheet 700 also includes a first edge 711 and a second
edge 712.
In one embodiment, the edges 711, 712 are perforated or have the earmarks from
a
perforated connection to another transfer sheet.
FIG. 8 shows that the bottom layer 710 includes an adhesive strip 810 toward
one
edge, such as edge 711 of the transfer sheet 700. The adhesive strip 810 can
be a single
elongated strip or can be several smaller strips laid end to end to form an
elongated
adhesive strip near the edge 711. In another embodiment, the adhesive strip
can be
multiple strips or multiple elongated strips near one of the edges 711 of the
transfer
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sheet 700. In one embodiment, the strips can be parallel to one another and
parallel to
the edge 711.
The adhesive used is generally a releasable type of adhesive, such as an
adhesive
similar to that used on a POST-IT note from 3M of St. Paul, MN. The releasable
adhesive will allow the strip to be applied to a surface and removed without
leaving an
adhesive residue on the surface.
In still another embodiment, the adhesive strip is covered with a strip of
material
to seal the adhesive until it is exposed for use. This material may be of the
peel and stick
type. The transfer sheet 700 can be bunched up along one of the edges 711, 712
and
used to move an object such as a patient. In one embodiment, the transfer
sheet 700 can
include hand hold openings.
SYSTEM STORAGE
FIG. 9 shows a wall mounted bracket 900 for the patient transfer device 300
and
roll 930 of transfer sheets 700, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 10
is an
end view of the wall mounted bracket 900 for the patient transfer device 300
and roll 930
of transfer sheets 700, according to the exemplary embodiment.
Now referring to both FIGS. 9 and 10, the details of the wall mount bracket
and
roll 930 of transfer sheets 700 will be further detailed. The wall mount
bracket 900 is
attached or mounted to a substantially vertical surface, such as a wall 902.
The wall mounted bracket 900 has an upper portion 910 and a lower portion 912.
The upper portion 910 is substantially parallel with the lower portion 912.
The lower
portion 912 abuts the wall 902. The lower portion 912 is attached to the wall
via any
suitable type of fastening device, such as lag bolts, screws, or the like. The
lower
portion 912 can be attached using an adhesive. In some embodiments, both an
adhesive
and one or more fasteners are used to attach the lower portion 912 of the wall
bracket
900 to the wall 902.
When attached, the upper end 910 is free and spaced from the wall at a
distance
which is greater than the width of the patient transfer device 300. The
patient transfer
device can then be stowed along the wall, and produce a minimal footprint. The
patient
transfer device 300 also does not interfere with the ground. In many
instances, for
example, the floor is kept clean so having the patient transfer device off the
floor is
helpful in that it does not need to be moved to clean a room.
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The wall bracket 900 can be used in any type of room, including surgical
suites,
patient rooms, or hallways near a plurality of patient rooms. The device can
also be used
in transport vehicles, such as ambulances or helicopters, or rescue boats.
Stored above the wall mounted bracket 900 is a roll of transfer sheets 700.
The
transfer sheets 700 are foliated in a roll 930 and can be easily deployed.
In use, the patient transfer device 300 is removed. A transfer sheet is torn
off the
roll along a perforated edge, such as edge 712. The adhesive can then be used
to
removably attach the transfer sheet 700 to the belt 330 of the transfer device
300. In
other embodiments, the transfer sheet 700 may be attached to the patient
transfer device
300 before being removed from the storage spot of the wall mounted bracket
900.
In one embodiment, the upper portion 910 of wall mounted bracket 900 is
attached to the lower portion by a spring hinge 914. The spring hinge 914
allows the
upper portion 910 to fold down and provide a substantially vertical working
surface for
the patient transfer device 300 as a transfer sheet is being loaded thereon.
After the
.. transfer sheet 700 is loaded onto the patient transfer device 300, the
spring hinge 914
moves the upper portion 910 back to a position proximate the wall to which the
wall
bracket 900 is mounted.
In still another embodiment, the roll of transfer sheets can be placed or
mounted
in a suitable housing The housing can he attached to an appropriate surface
The
.. housing protects the roll of transfer sheets 700.
METHOD OF OPERATION
FIG. 11 shows a flow diagram of a method 1100 for operation of the patient
transfer device and transfer sheet, according to an exemplary embodiment. The
patient
transfer device 300 is removed from a wall bracket (step 1110), and a transfer
sheet 700
is removed from the roll of transfer sheets (step 1112). The transfer sheet
700 is applied
to the continuous belt 330 of the patient transfer device (step 1114).
Applying the transfer sheet to the continuous belt includes removing a peel
and
stick type covering from an adhesive strip, and placing the adhesive strip of
the transfer
sheet onto the continuous belt of the patient transfer device. Generally, the
adhesive
strip will be applied to the belt near the edge that will be initially placed
under the
patient. The belt is moved to place a portion of the transfer sheet into the
opening
between the housing 310 and the edge of the belt 330, as depicted herein (step
1116).
¨14¨
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This may be referred to as loading the transfer sheet onto the patient
transfer device (step
1116).
"[he patient or other body to be moved is then rolled away from the patient
transfer device (step 1118), the patient transfer device is placed adjacent
the patient
(step 1120), and the patient is then rolled back onto the patient transfer
device
(step 1122). The patient or other body to be moved is now partially on the
patient
transfer device. The transfer sheet can then be pulled and the body pushed to
place the
patient onto the continuous belt and transfer the patient from the first
surface to a second
surface (step 1124).
At least one portion of the transfer sheet contacts the continuous belt. The
patient
continues to be moved until it is on the second surface (step 1126). The
patient can then
be tilted or rolled away from the patient transfer device (step 1128), and the
patient
transfer device can then be removed (step 1130) and the patient can be rolled
onto the
second surface (step 1132).
TRANSFER SHEET MATERIALS
FIG. 12 shows a supplemental sheet 1205 that can be used to add strength to
the
transfer sheet 700 during a patient transfer, according to an exemplary
embodiment of
the present disclosure. When the patient is heavy or above a certain weight,
there is a
possibility that the transfer sheet 700 may not hold up to the pulling forces
needed to
move the patient. As a result, a sheet 1205 of a thicker and stronger material
can be
provided, which supplements and adds to the system.
As shown, the sheet is a relatively thin and tough plastic sheet that is
dimensioned so that it fits on the continuous belt 330, 1850. In operation,
the sheet 1205
fits between the transfer sheet 700 and the continuous belt 330, 1850. For
example, the
sheet can be positioned when it is determined that the body to be moved, such
as a heavy
patient, may be large enough so that pulling on the transfer sheet 700 alone
may rip the
transfer sheet 700. Alternatively, the supplemental sheet 1205 can be bonded
to the
transfer sheet 700, for example to the bottom surface of transfer sheet 700,
in a laminated
transfer sheet configuration.
The sheet 1205 is made of a tough plastic that can be grabbed and moved with
little chance of tearing. In one exemplary embodiment, the sheet 1205 is made
of
polyethylene having a thickness of approximately 20 mils.
¨15¨
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As shown, the sheet 1205 has a first edge 1201 and a second edge 1202. The
sheet 1205 can have a first set of handholds 1211 positioned near the first
edge 1201 and
a second set of handholds 1213 near the second edge 1202. In another
embodiment, the
sheet can include a foam material. The foam material provides for further
cushioning of
the body during transport. In some embodiments, the foam is added to the sheet
1205 to
provide a composite sheet that is both strong and cushioned. In another
embodiment, the
sheet may be entirely made of foam material.
DRIVE SYSTEM AND CONTROLS
In some embodiments, the patient transfer device 300 includes a drive
mechanism 1210. FIG. 13 shows a schematic view of a transfer device 1200 with
a drive
system or motor 1210, according to an exemplary embodiment.
The drive mechanism, in one embodiment, includes an electric motor or drive
system 1210, such as a brushless induction motor. The electric motor turns a
shaft or
shafts 1212 and 1212' coupled to at least one or both of the elongated rollers
320, 322.
The shaft 1212, 1212' turns and drives the rollers 320, 322. The shaft 1212,
1212' turns
one way to rotate the roller in a first direction and turns another way to
turn the roller in
the opposite direction. In one embodiment, shafts 1212, 1212' are connected so
that
rollers 320, 322 can be rotated freely to override the drive motor 1210.
In one embodiment, the motor 1210 includes a gearbox having a set of pawls
that
are used to drive the shaft in a first direction. If the rollers are turned
faster than the
driven speed, the pawls merely ride over an adjacent drive position to allow
the rollers to
free wheel in the driven direction. 'Ibis is helpful in the event the drive
mechanism is not
moving fast enough and the people overseeing the transfer of the patient want
to expedite
the transfer, such as in an emergency situation. In addition, if there is a
loss of power, it
may be necessary in order to move the patient, or other body to be
transferred.
As discussed above, the patient transfer device may be bi-directional because
the
shafts 1212, 1212' can be driven in a first direction and in a second
direction. The
second direction may be the reverse or opposite the first direction.
It is contemplated that sensors can be used to automatically determine which
way
to drive the rollers. In one embodiment, accelerometers are used to detect
tilt and to
detect which of the sides of the transfer device 300 contacts a surface first.
This will
generally indicate the side of the transfer device 300 that is placed under
the patient or
other body or object to be moved. In another embodiment, each edge of the
transfer
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device 300 is provided with a stress or strain gauge. The stress or strain
gauge can be
used to detect a force, such as a partial weight of a patient or other body or
object on one
edge of the transfer device.
In either embodiment, detecting the patient or other body to be moved using a
strain gauge or by detecting the tilt of the device 300, the top surface or
exterior portion
of the continuous belt is driven away from the patient or other body to be
moved so as to
move the patient or other body to a position on the surface of the device 300.
In some
embodiments, inertial activation is used to determine the direction to drive
the belt. It
should also be noted that one or more of these types of sensors can be
combined to form
a more robust system.
In one embodiment, the electric motor is powered by a battery. In one
exemplary
embodiment, the wall bracket can include a charger system that charges the
battery by
induction technology. The motor within the patient transfer device 1200 may be
an
induction motor.
The charger may be provided within the wall bracket 900 and positioned in
charging relation to the motor within the patient transfer device 1200.
Induction or
contact points can be located within the patient transfer device. The battery
within the
patient transfer device 1200 is then charged whenever the patient transfer
device is
placed in the wall mounted bracket 900. Therefore, the battery 1220 will he
charged and
ready when the patient transfer device is needed. After use, the patient
transfer device
1200 is placed in the wall mount bracket and recharged again.
In another embodiment, the charger can also be placed in the wall near the
wall
bracket. In still other embodiments, the wall bracket 900 includes a series of
stops to
correctly position the patient transfer device with respect to the wall
bracket so that the
charger within the wall bracket is able to charge the battery 1220.
FIG. 14 is a schematic of a control system that acts in response to a set of
sensors
associated with the transfer device 1200, according to an exemplary
embodiment. The
patient transfer system or transport device 1200 includes a controller 1310
for controlling
the electric motor 1210 used to drive the patient transfer device 1200.
The patient transfer device 1200 may also include sensors, such as a sensor
1311
and a sensor 1312. Sensor 1311 is associated or positioned on or within a
first edge of
the housing of the patient transfer device. Sensor 1312 is associated or
positioned on or
within a second edge of the housing of the patient transfer device 1200. The
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sensors 1311, 1312 are used to detect the position of the body or other object
to be
transported.
"[he sensors 1311, 1312 can be any type of suitable sensor including an
optical
sensor, a heat sensor, a gyroscopic sensor, an inertial sensor, or a strain
gauge, or the
like. An optical sensor detects the body in response to a reduced amount of
light
occurring at one sensor when compared to another optical sensor. A strain
gauge will
detect weight added to the housing in the area of the sensor location. A heat
sensor can
sense heat of a patient or other body, for example should the object to be
moved be a
human being. A gyroscopic sensor senses the axis plane position of a portion
of the
patient transfer device 1200. An inertial sensor senses the commencement of
movement
or the stoppage of movement.
The sensors 1311 and 1312 can be used to control movement or driving of the
continuous belt 330 so as to make the patient transfer device user-friendly to
hospital
personnel using the device to transport a patient. More than two sensors can
be used in
other embodiments.
FIG. 15 is a flow diagram for a method 1500 for controlling the movement of a
belt and for driving the belt, according to an exemplary embodiment. If a
transfer
sheet 700 is placed on the belt near an edge, the roller will be turned in a
direction
toward that edge so as to tuck the transfer sheet 700 into the housing (step
1510). The
.. controller 1310 can detect movement and direction of the roller for this
operation
(step 1512) and set the roller to be driven in a direction opposite the
transfer sheet
tucking direction (step 1514).
The edge carrying the sensor 1311 may be the edge initially placed near the
body
to be moved. The body is typically rolled away from this edge. For example, if
a patient
is the body to be moved, the patient can be rolled onto his or her side (step
1516). The
edge is placed adjacent the body to be moved, and then rolled onto the edge
and over the
sensor 1311.
The position of the patient is sensed (step 1518). If sensor 1311 is alight
sensor,
a signal indicating a lack of light or drop in an amount of light is sent to
the
controller 1310. The controller 1310 can then drive the rollers to move the
belt 330
away from the sensor 1311, as depicted herein (step 1520).
In some embodiments, the controller can detect a lack of light for a set time
before actually moving. This can prevent detecting an object when there
actually was
not such an object (such as a user placing a hand on the sensor 1311). In one
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embodiment, the sensor 1311 can be compared to the sensor 1312. If the two
detect
equal levels of light, for example, the room could be dark.
In another embodiment, the sensor can be a stress/strain gauge. When the
patient
or other body is rolled onto the edge containing the sensor 1311, the
stress/strain gauge
can detect added weight on the frame or the portion of the frame near the
sensor 1311.
The sensor 1311 can also detect heat or a warm body to determine that a
patient is on the
frame.
Once an object has been detected, the drive system 1210 drives the rollers
away
from the edge with the sensor 1311. The drive system 1210 will drive the
rollers to
move the body (step 1522) and then stop driving the body (step 1524).
There are many suitable options for stopping the rollers. For example, in one
embodiment, the drive system 1210 will drive the rollers to move the body
until the
sensor 1312 detects the body by way of a lack of light, an increase in weight,
or by
sensing heat at the sensor 1312. In another embodiment, the drive system 1210
can
continue to drive the belt for a set amount of time or for a set distance. In
a further
embodiment, the belt can be driven until a lack of weight, increased light or
heat is no
longer sensed at the sensor 1312. In still another further embodiment, the
drive
system 1210 will stop when the load needed to drive the belt increases, which
indicates
that thp body has traveled to the second surface and may now he resting in
part on the
second surface.
The horizontal component of force needed to overcome friction on the second
surface will cause the load on the motor to go high, and the motor associated
with the
drive system can then be stopped. The patient can be rolled or tilted (step
1526) and the
patient transfer system removed (step 1527) and placed back in the wall
mounted bracket
for recharging (step 1528).
Discussed above is one exemplary control method. It should be noted that other
control methods are possible. For example, a sensor able to detect a level
surface can be
used. The patient transfer device can be placed on the first and second
surface and be
substantially level. The transfer sheet 700 can be attached to the belt. When
the patient
or other body is rolled onto its side, the patient transfer device is
typically tilted slightly
with the low end being nearest the patient or body. Sensing the tilt toward an
edge can
be a signal to drive the roller in a direction toward the patient to load the
transfer sheet
700. The remaining portion of the control method above can then be earned out,
as
discussed herein.
¨19¨
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Described above is a system that can work with a few sensors. It is
contemplated
that other sensors can be used and produce inputs to a controller to enhance
the ease of
use for hospital personnel or others that use the patient transfer system.
For example, gyroscopic technology can also be used to sense certain
conditions.
A gyroscopic sensor can be used to detect a substantially level condition,
such as when
the patient transfer device is placed between a first surface and a second
surface. Once
the level condition is detected, the drive system can be enabled or turned on
and readied
for use.
Using gyroscopic technology, the device can also be disabled or turned off
when
it is determined to be at an angle greater than a selected threshold, such as
30 degrees
with respect to level or horizontal. Levels can also be used to produce inputs
for
enabling and disabling the device. A sensor can also provide an input to
automatically
shut off the device when it is within the wall mounted bracket.
FIG. 16 shows a diagrammatic representation of a computing device for a
machine in the example electronic foul' of a computer system 2000, within
which is
executed a set of instructions for causing the machine to perfoun one or more
of the
methods discussed herein, according to one or more exemplary embodiments of
the
present disclosure. In these various exemplary embodiments, the machine may
operate
as a standalone device or can he connected (e.g , networked) to other
machines. In a
networked deployment, the machine can operate in the capacity of a server or a
client
machine in a server-client network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-
to-peer
(or distributed) network environment.
The machine can be a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB),
a
Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), a cellular telephone, a portable music
player (e.g., a
portable hard drive audio device such as an Moving Picture Experts Group Audio
Layer
3 or MP3 player), a web appliance, a network router, a switch, a bridge, or
any suitable
machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise)
that specify
actions to be taken by that machine. Further, while only a single machine is
illustrated,
the temi "machine" shall also be taken to include any suitable collection of
machines that
individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to
pet-foul' any one
or more of the methodologies discussed herein.
The example computer system 2000 includes a processor or multiple
processors 2002 (e.g., a central processing unit or CPU, a graphics processing
unit or
GPU, an arithmetic logic unit, or any or all of these), and one or both of a
main
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memory 2004 and a static memory 2006, which may communicate with each other
via a
bus 2008.
The computer system 2000 can further include a video display unit 2010 (e.g.,
a
liquid crystal display or LCD, or a cathode ray tube or CRT). The computer
system
2000 can also include an alphanumeric input device 2012 (e.g., a keyboard), a
cursor
control device 2014 (e.g., a mouse), a disk drive or other storage unit 2016,
a signal
generation device 2018 (e.g., a speaker) and a network interface device 2020.
The disk drive or other storage unit 2016 includes a computer-readable
medium 2022 on which is stored one or more sets of instructions and data
structures
(e.g., instructions 2024) embodying or utilized by any one or more of the
methodologies
or functions described herein. The instructions 2024 can also reside,
completely or at
least partially, within the main memory 2004 and/or within the processors 2002
during
execution thereof by the computer system 2000. The main memory 2004 and the
processors 2002 also constitute machine-readable media.
The instructions 2024 can further be transmitted or received over a network
2026
via the network interface device 2020 utilizing any one of a number of
suitable transfer
protocols (e.g., Hyper Text Transfer Protocol or HTTP, CAN, Serial, or
Modbus). For
example, it is contemplated that an application, for example referred to as an
app, can be
used with a handheld device, such as a smartphone or mobile device available
from
various carriers, which can be employed as an interface for controlling the
patient
transfer device.
Other devices can also be provided with applications that can be used to
control
the patient transfer system. For example, a mobile phone application can be
used to
enable or turn on the device and issue certain commands needed to move a body.
Thus,
an application can be used to convert a mobile phone or smart phone into a
remote. A
dedicated remote can also be provided with the patient transfer device.
While the computer-readable medium 2022 is shown in an exemplary
embodiment to be a single medium, the term "computer-readable medium" should
be
taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or
distributed
database, and/or associated caches and servers), which store the one or more
sets of
instructions and provide the instructions in a computer readable form. The
term
"computer-readable medium" shall also be taken to include any suitable medium
that is
capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructions for execution
by the
machine and which causes the machine to perform any one or more of the
methodologies
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of the present application, or a medium that is capable of storing, encoding,
or carrying
data structures utilized by or associated with such a set of instructions.
The term "computer-readable medium" shall accordingly be taken to include, but
not be limited to, solid-state memories, optical and magnetic media, tangible
foims and
signals that can be read or sensed by a computer. Such media can also include,
without
limitation, hard disks, floppy disks, flash memory cards, digital video disks,
random
access memory (RAMs), read only memory (ROMs), and the like.
The computer system or part of a computer system can be used as the
controller 1310 in the drive system of the patient transfer device. In
addition, the patient
drive system can be provided with any type of suitable interface for receiving
signals
over a link, such as an internet link, RF link, infrared link or the like.
The exemplary embodiments described herein can be implemented in an
operating environment comprising computer-executable instructions (e.g.,
software)
installed on a computer, in hardware, or in a combination of software and
hardware.
Modules as used herein can be hardware or hardware including circuitry to
execute
instructions. 'Hie computer-executable instructions can be written in a
computer
programming language or can be embodied in firmware logic.
If written, for example, in a programming language conforming to a recognized
standard, such instructions can he executed on a variety of hardware platforms
and
provide for interfaces to a variety of operating systems. Although not limited
thereto,
computer software programs for implementing the present method(s) can be
written in
any number of suitable programming languages such as, for example, Hyper Text
Markup Language (HTML), Dynamic HTML, Extensible Markup Language (XML),
Extensible Stylesheet Language (XSL), Document Style Semantics and
Specification
Language (DSSSL), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Synchronized Multimedia
Integration Language (SMIL), Wireless Markup Language (WML), JAVA, JINI, C.
C++, Perl, UNIX Shell, Visual Basic or Visual Basic Script, Virtual Reality
Markup
I,anguage (VRMI,), or using other compilers, assemblers, interpreters or other
computer
languages or platforms.
SYSTEM STORAGE ALTERNATIVES
FIG. 17A shows another embodiment of a wall mounted bracket 1700 for the
patient transfer device 300 and roll 930 of transfer sheets 700, according to
an exemplary
_r)1_
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embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, the wall mounted
bracket 1700 is
mounted in a vertical orientation.
Space in an operating suite can be precious. By orientating the wall mounted
bracket 1700 vertically, there is less of a footprint with respect to the
floor of the
operating suite. In this manner, the wall mounted bracket 1700 can allow space
for other
equipment to be placed into the operating suite.
In this embodiment, the roll 930 of transfer sheets 700 is also mounted
vertically.
It should be realized that the roll 930 of transfer sheets 700 can also be
mounted
horizontally. In fact, one of the wall bracket or roll can be mounted
substantially
horizontally and the other of the wall bracket or roll can be mounted
substantially
vertically in various exemplary embodiments.
In each of the various embodiments, the wall bracket 900, 1700 may be provided
with a set of contacts for a contact charger. The patient transfer device 300
can have a
corresponding set of contacts which make contact with the set of contacts
associated with
the device 300. The contacts can be used to recharge the motor inside the
device 300.
Similarly, the device 300 and the wall mounted brackets can also include a non-
contact charging system which can be used to charge the motors associated with
the
device 300. In one embodiment, the non-contact charging device can include a
set of
coils associated with the patient transfer device 300 and another set of coils
associated
with the wall bracket 1700. An alternating current passed through the coils in
the wall
bracket can induce an alternating current in the coils of the transfer device.
These can be
rectified and used to charge a storage device, such as a battery.
In such an embodiment, there may be no electrical contacts, which is
advantageous if the operatory includes the use of combustible gases and the
like. In
another embodiment, the wall mounted bracket can be provided with electrical
contacts
that make contact with the patient transfer device so that it is charged when
placed in the
wall mounted bracket 1700.
The wall mounted bracket 1700 includes an upper portion 1710 and a lower
portion 1712. In one embodiment, upper portion 1710 is attached to the lower
portion 1712 by a hinge or spring hinge 1714. The hinge 1714 allows the upper
portion
1710 to fold down and provide a substantially vertical working surface for the
patient
transfer device 300 as a transfer sheet is being loaded thereon. After the
transfer sheet
700 is loaded onto the patient transfer device 300, a spring hinge 1714 can
move the
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upper portion 1710 back to a position proximate the wall to which the wall
bracket 1700
is mounted.
FIG. 17B is a side view of wall mount or storage bracket 1720 according to a
further exemplary embodiment, for example mounted to an operating room wall
902.
Alternatively, storage bracket (or storage unit) 1720 can be mounted to a wall
or similar
structure 902 in a nursing station, laboratory, examination room, hallway, or
in another
hospital, clinical or home care location, or utilized in a transport vehicle.
Suitable materials for manufacturing the storage bracket include, but are not
limited to, plastics and other durable polymers, woods, metals, composite
materials, and
combinations thereof. In the particular example of FIG. 17B, for example,
storage
bracket 1720 includes first and second housing or storage portions 1721 and
1722,
formed of plastic, composite and/or metal materials.
First (device) housing 1721 is attached to a wall or other structure 902 and
configured for storing a patient transfer device, for example a device, system
or
apparatus 300, 1800, 2100 or 2600, as described herein. Second housing 1722 is
attached to first housing 1721, and configured for storing one or more
transfer sheets or
other materials, for example single-use transfer sheets 700, 1900 or 1950, as
described
herein. Alternatively, second housing 1722 may also be configured for storing
additional
materials, for example multi-use transfer sheets, linens, and/or spare belts
or other parts
for the patient transfer device.
FIG. 17C is a perspective view of a wheeled cart 1750, as configured for
storing
and transporting a patient transfer device according to an exemplary
embodiment of the
present disclosure. In this particular example, cart 1750 includes a storage
unit
substantially similar to storage bracket 1720 mounted to a wheeled base 1751,
for
example with a tubular frame or mount other structure 1752 attached to a
wheeled
carriage 1753 with one or more wheels or casters 1754.
Suitable materials for making the components of cart 1750 include, but are not
limited to, metals, plastics, polymers, composite materials, and combinations
thereof, as
described above. Storage bracket 1720 can be configured for storing a patient
transfer
device or apparatus 300, 1800, 2100 or 2600, and/or one or more transfer
sheets 700,
900, or 1950, with or without additional linens, parts, and materials, as
described herein.
Alternatively, cart 1750 may utilize a storage unit substantial similar to
storage bracket
900 or storage bracket 1700, or another suitable storage unit configuration.
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DESIGN ALTERNATIVES ¨ TRANSPORT DEVICE
FIG. 18A shows a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the
patient transport device 1800. FIG. 18B shows an end view of another exemplary
embodiment of the patient transfer device 1800. FIG. 18C shows a top view of
another
exemplary embodiment of the patient transfer device 1800. Now referring to
FIGS. 18A,
18B, 18C, the patient transfer device (alternatively, system or apparatus)
1800 will be
further detailed.
The patient transfer system 1800 includes a housing 1810 dimensioned to span a
distance between the first surface and the second surface. The housing 1810
includes a
first elongated frame member or side cap 1811, a second elongated frame member
or
side cap 1812, a first end cap 1813, and a second end cap 1814. The end caps
1813,
1814 attach to the first and second elongated frame members or side caps 1811,
1812 to
form the housing 1810. The housing 1810 is made sufficiently strong so as to
have the
strength to not fail while spanning a distance somewhat shorter than the
length of the end
caps 1813, 1814.
The housing 1810 holds a bridge 1840 which is formed from a material
sufficiently strong to hold a patient. The bridge 1840 includes a top bridge
cover 1842
and a bottom bridge cover 1844. Located between the top bridge cover 1842 and
the
'bottom bridge cover 1844 is a plurality of truss niembe,rs including truss
members 1845,
1846, and 1847.
In this exemplary embodiment, the truss members are part of a matrix of truss
members. The truss members provide strength without making the bridge 1840
overly
heavy. The bridge 1840 can be made of metal, plastic, fiberglass or the like.
The
bridge 1840 can also be made of a composite of several materials or additional
materials.
It should be noted that the side caps 1811 and 1812 can also include a system
of
trusses, as shown in FIG. 18A. In another embodiment, the side caps 1811 and
1812 can
be made of a solid material.
The patient transfer system 1800 may also include a first elongated roller
1820
positioned along the first elongated frame member or first side cap 1811 of
the
housing 1810, and a second elongated roller 1822 positioned along the second
elongated
frame member or second side cap 1812 of the housing 1810. The patient transfer
system 1800 may also include a set of four connector plates. Two of the
connector plates
are shown in FIG. 18A as elements 1831 and 1832. These are closely spaced with
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respect to the end cap 1813. It should be understood that there may be
additional
connector plates positioned near the end cap 1814.
One connector plate 1831 is attached to one end of the side cap 1811 and
another
connector plate is attached to the other end of the side cap 1811. Similarly,
there are two
connector plates, including connector plate 1832, which are attached to the
ends of the
side cap 1812.
The rollers 1820 and 1822 are rotatably attached to two connector plates. The
end caps 1813 and 1814, in one embodiment, are also attached to the connector
plates.
For example, the end cap 1813 attaches to connector plates 1831 and 1832.
The frame or housing 1810, the bridge 1840 and the connector plates form a
support system 1830 for the patient transfer system 1800. In one embodiment,
the
bridge 1840 attaches to the end caps 1813 and 1814. In another embodiment, the
end
caps 1813, 1814 include indents for receiving the end of the bridge. In this
way, the
bridge does not have to be connected by hardware but can merely slip into the
openings
or indents in the end caps 1813, 1814. Alternatively, support system 1830 and
bridge
1840 may be combined with housing 1810 to form a substantially unitary or
solid
structure. In some of these embodiments, there may be no moving belt, with
direct
contact between the transfer sheet (e.g., lower surface) and the support
bridge (e.g.,
upper surface).
As shown in FIG. 18B, a continuous belt 1850 fits over the rollers 1820, 1822,
the top bridge cover 1842, and the bottom bridge cover 1844. The continuous
belt 1850
is positioned in conveying relation with respect to the first roller 1820 and
the second
roller 1822 and with respect to the bridge 1840. FIG. 18B is an end view, and
the belt is
shown separate from the rollers 1820, 1822, the top bridge cover 1842, and the
bottom
bridge cover 1844.
As shown in FIG. 18C, the first roller 1820, the second roller 1822, and the
bridge 1840 are positioned within the continuous belt 1850. A portion of the
continuous
belt 1850 conveys a patient or other body and another portion of the
continuous belt
1850 passes through the housing 1810. The continuous belt 1850 passes over the
top
bridge cover 1842, the bottom bridge cover 1844 of the bridge 1840, and the
rollers
1820, 1822 while in the housing 1810.
The continuous belt 1850 passes through the housing 1810 and does not contact
the major surfaces that a patient is transferred from or to. The continuous
belt 1850
passes over the support structure 1830 and specifically over the covers 1844,
1842 and
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the rollers as the continuous belt is moved to transfer the body. The material
used to
form the top bridge cover 1842 and the bottom bridge cover 1844, in some
embodiments,
includes a material which lessens the friction occurring between the covers
1842, 1844
and the belt 1850.
Now looking at FIG. 18B, the patient transfer device 1800 is assembled and the
end cap 1813 is removed to more clearly show the truss members of the bridge
1840
which are used to support the covers 1842, 1844. The truss members and covers
are
made of a material adequate to transport a patient. A factor of safety can be
incorporated
into the design.
FIG. 18C shows an assembled patient transfer device 1800. The continuous belt
is cut away along the length so that the portions of the support systems 1830
are shown.
DESIGN ALTERNATIVES ¨ TRANSFER SHEET
FIG. 19A shows a perspective view of a single-use transfer sheet 1900 for the
patient transfer device. FIG. 19B shows a bottom view of the single-use
transfer sheet
1900, according to another exemplary embodiment.
The single-use transfer sheet 1900 is similar to the single-use transfer sheet
700.
The transfer sheet 1900 also includes a second strip of adhesive 1910 that can
be
uncovered and used during the initial loading of the transfer sheet 700 onto
the patient
transfer device or at a later time as needed. The second strip of adhesive may
not be
used at all by some embodiments.
FIG. 20A is a top view of a transfer sheet 1950, according to a further
embodiment. In this example, transfer sheet 1950 is formed of a bottom layer
or
backing 1951, middle absorbent layer 1952, and upper permeable (e.g., top)
layer 1953.
Bottom or backing layer 1951 is foliated of a structural material such as a
strong,
durable polymer, which may be relatively impervious to fluid flow. Bottom or
backing
layer 1951 may also include or be formed of a structurally reinforcing
material, for
example an additional layer of non-woven polymer, or a spun, flash-spun, or
woven
layer of a fiber material such as a polyamide, aramid, para-aramid, or
polyethylene fiber
material that is resistant to tearing, such as a nylon, KEVLAR or TYVEK
material, or a
substantial structural or generic equivalent thereof.
In some embodiments, bottom layer 1951 also includes one or more coatings or
impregnated materials selected for permeability or impermeability to water
and/or fluid
transport. In additional embodiments, bottom layer 1951 includes one or more
coatings
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or impregnated materials selected for other properties such as increased or
reduced
friction, for example a silicone impregnated nylon or other impregnated
material.
Middle or absorbent layer 1952 is formed of one or more absorbent materials
provided between bottom layer 1951 and top layer 1953, such as absorbent cloth
or
textile materials, absorbent or super absorbent polymer materials, and
combinations
thereof. As shown in FIG. 20A, absorbent layer 1952 may also have a somewhat
smaller
surface area than one or both of bottom layer 1951 and top layer 1953, with
absorbent
layer 1952 positioned inside an exterior or border region 1954 in which bottom
and top
layers 1951 and 1953 are provided in direct contact; for example with no
middle or
absorbent layer 1952 therebetween.
Top layer 1953 may be formed of a relatively permeable material such as a
permeable polymer or permeable textile material, or a relatively impermeable
material
polymer or textile material configured with a plurality of apertures or
microapertures. In
particular, the materials of top layer 1953 may be selected to enable the
transport of
fluids including liquids through top layer 1953 of transfer sheet 1950 to
middle or
absorbent layer 1952 of transfer sheet.
In some applications, transfer sheet 1950 may be provided in sterile form, for
example in a burn unit or intensive care unit (ICU) environment, where the
infection risk
is elevated In sterile applications top layer 1951 may include a removahle
cover sheet,
which can be used to protect the sterile surface of the transfer sheet prior
to use. An
antibiotic or antimicrobial material can also be included, for example with
silver nitrate
impregnated into one or more of layers 1951, 1952 and 1953.
Advanced absorbent materials can also be used to provide additional capacity
for
specific applications. Sheet qualities may be signaled by a visual cue, for
example,
color-coded (e.g., green) sheets may signal absorbency suitable for standard
catheter
laboratory and operating room procedures, and (e.g., pink) sheets may signal
absorbency
suitable for obstetrics, and other applications where fluid absorption or
another attribute
is a design consideration. The fluid absorption capacity of a single-use
transfer sheet
may range up to about a liter (or about 35 ounces) for "standard"
applications, e.g., about
800 ml (or about 27 ounces), and up to 1.5 liter (about 50 ounces) or more for
"ultra" or
"super" absorbent applications, e.g., about 1.6 liter (or about 54 ounces).
Additional
absorptive material may also be provided in a selected area of the transfer
sheet, e.g., a
selected central area 1959.
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The various layers 1951, 1952, 1953, etc. of transfer sheet 1950 may be bonded
together via one or more chemical, mechanical, or thermal processes, for
example using
a heat seal or thermal bonding technique. In a thermal bonded configuration,
the thermal
bonding pattern may be configured to discourage delamination and tearing
during use of
transfer sheet 1950, for example with a thermal bonding pattern or grid
spacing ranging
from about one inch or less (< 2.54 cm), to about one centimeter or less (<
0.39 inch).
FIG. 20B is a bottom view of transfer sheet 1950 as shown in FIG. 20A. As
shown in FIG. 20B, bottom layer 1951 of transfer sheet 1950 may be provided
with one
or more adhesive strips or tabs 1955 positioned along the ends or edges of
transfer
sheet 1950, for example with an adhesive to removably attach transfer sheet
20A to the
continuous belt of a patient transfer device, as described herein.
In some applications, adhesive strips or tabs 1955 may be provided with a tab
cover 1956, for example in a peel-and stick arrangement with a non-adhesive-
backed
paper material which can be removed to expose the adhesive prior to use. In
these
examples, cover tabs 1956 may be larger in dimension than adhesive strip 1955,
so that a
portion of each cover tab 1956 extends over and out past (beyond) the surface
area of
adhesive strip 1955 for ease of manipulation and removal, for example when
manipulated by care providers wearing gloves.
FIG 20C is a perspective view of a single-use transfer sheet 1950 loaded onto
a
patient transfer device to form patient transfer system or apparatus 2100, for
example
utilizing device 300 or 1800 as described above, or in the form of system 2100
as further
described below. Alternatively, a different embodiment of transfer sheet 1950
may be
utilized, for example transfer sheet 700 or 1900, or a multi-use transfer
sheet, linen, or
chucks material, as described herein.
ERGONOMICS
FIG. 21 is an illustration of patient transfer system 2100 in use, according
to an
exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In this particular example, a
number of
health care workers 2111, 2112, 2113, etc. may utilize device 2100 to transfer
or
transport a patient or other body 2115 from a first (starting) surface 2121 to
a second
(destination) surface 2122, for example from an operating table or laboratory
or
examining station to a bed or gurney, as shown in FIG. 21.
Alternatively, device 2100 may be utilized to transfer a patient 2115 or other
body from any suitable surface 2121 to any other suitable surface 2122, for
example any
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of a bed, table, or station in a hospital, clinical, home care or patient
transportation
environment. In each of these applications, the number of care workers 2111-
2113 may
vary, for example, an additional care worker may be stationed at the head of
patient
2115, or there may be fewer (or more) care workers 2111-2113.
FIG. 21 illustrates a number of features of the patient transfer device (or
patient
transport system) 2100, when used in combination with a single-use or multiple-
use
transfer sheet 1950. In contrast to roller boards and other existing systems,
for example,
patient transfer device remains substantially stationary during the transfer
process,
lowering the risk of cross-contamination from first surface 2121 to second
surface 2122,
and reducing the number of required patient manipulations, as described above.
In addition, transfer device 2100 provides substantially more unifoim support
to
patient 2115 during the transfer process, with substantially less friction,
increasing
patient comfort and reducing the risk of strain on health care workers 2111-
2113. For
example, transfer sheet 1950 may have an extended length EL when loaded onto
device
2100, as defined between the body of patient 2115 on first (initial) surface
2121, and the
edge or border region of sheet 1950, where it is grasped by health care worker
2113.
Where health care worker 2113 is located on the opposite side of device 2100,
across (or
on) destination surface 2122, this configuration of system 2100 with transfer
sheet 1950
can decrease strain by reducing hack angle BA, as defined between vertical and
a line
between the hip and shoulder of health care worker 2113, as shown in FIG. 21.
The particular sheet dimensions and usage configurations for system 2100 may
vary, depending on application. For example, in one embodiment transfer sheet
1950
may extend for length EL of about twelve to twenty-four inches (or about 30 to
about 60 cm) when loaded onto device 2100, as defined from the side of patient
2115 on
initial surface 2121 to the edge of transfer sheet 1950, where it is grasped
by health care
worker 2113 on the side of second (destination) surface 2122. Especially for
relatively
small-statured health care workers 2113, this may reduce back angle BA
substantially as
compared to other transfer and transport systems, for example to a range of
about 30
degrees or less, or about 45 degrees or less. Extension length EL of transfer
sheet 1950
can also be selected for other ergonomic variables, for example in order to
reduce wrist-
hip distance WH, or to increase eye-hand distance EH.
These configurations of patient transfer system 2100 can provide substantial
ergonomic benefits for health care workers 2113, including increased ease of
patient
transfer with reduced risk of injury due to stress and strain, even for
relatively large-
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statured, heavy or bariatric (e.g., obese) patients or bodies 2115. In
contrast to other
single-use and disposable linen or sheet materials, transfer sheet 1950 is
also configured
to provide substantial tensile strength and other structural properties, as
described herein,
for use in system 2100 for transferring different patients and other bodies
2115 between
a range of different initial and destination surfaces 2121 and 2122.
In high-strength and reinforced configurations, for example, transfer sheet
1950
may provide a tensile strength (e.g., a grab tensile strength) of about 30-40
lbf (or
about 130-180 N) or more, a bursting strength of about 85 psi (or about 600
kPa) or
more, and a tear resistance (e.g., a trapped tear resistance) of about 6-9 lbf
(or about 25-
40 N) or more, using the materials described herein. Alternatively, transfer
sheet 1950
may be provided in a heat-bonded or other multi-layer or multi-ply form, as
described
herein, in order to provide (for combined layers) a tensile strength of about
6-8 lbf (or
about 25-35 N) or more, a bursting strength of about 20 psi (or about 30 kPa)
or more,
and a tear resistance of about 1-2 lbf (or about 5-10 N) or more.
This additional strength permits a health care worker positioned as the
provider at
2113 to pull sheet 1950 with a force so as to overcome the frictional forces
retarding
patient motion onto the destination surface (although reduced by the present
systems and
methods), optionally with pushing from provider 2111. Specifically, the
tensile strength
allows a strong pulling force to he applied to the sheet edge. This allows
health care
provider 2113 (as seen in FIG. 21) to exert a force in the direction of
desired motion, and
in the direction for which the device 2100 reduces frictional resistance
(e.g., parallel to
the plane of bridge 2140). Thus, the device 2100 reduces the lateral force
required to
move the patient and the tensile strength of sheet 1950 allows a health care
provider
positioned to pull on sheet 1950 to apply the needed force more effectively
and
smoothly. In addition, participating health care providers are relieved of the
need to do
significant lifting of the patient's weight or other application of vertical
forces (e.g., at
lifting points remote from the patient's center of gravity), in order to
effect the transfer.
PULL FORCES
Based on conservative standards, for a given pulling distance (e.g., about six
to
seven feet, or about 2 m), where the starting point for the caregivers hands
is between the
caregiver' s waist and upper chest, a single care provider can safely pull a
patient weight
of a particular value, in a supine to supine transfer. When a patient is
transferred
laterally with a draw sheet, care providers may exert a pull force of
approximately 70-
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75% of patient weight; that is, the draw sheet system has an equivalent
coefficient of
friction of about 70-75%, which can be multiplied by the patient weight in
order to
detelmine whether the pull force falls within a safe or acceptable range.
For a patent weight of about 100 lbs (440-450 N), for example, the pull force
.. needed in a draw sheet transfer is about 70-75 lbs (310-340 N). This may be
enough to
exceed the safe value for a single caregiver, depending on body position,
pulling
distance, and other factors. For other, heavier patients, the required pull
forces may
exceed the recommended limits for two or more caregivers in typical draw sheet
transfer,
even when working together in a coordinate fashion.
The patient transfer devices and transfer sheets described herein reduce the
required pull forces by reducing (the coefficient of) friction for at least a
substantial part,
if not most of, the path of movement during the transfer. In particular, use
of the
disclosed designs show that the pull force required to execute a given
transfer may be
substantially reduced, as compared to draw sheet transfers and other devices,
assuming
the same push force is applied.
For example, a disclosed design has been used to transfer patients with
weights of
up to about 490-500 lbs (2150-2250 N), with BMI of up to about 53. For such
larger
patient transfers, there may be two pushers and one puller, in addition to
staff managing
the head and feet. In such cases, a greater proportion of the transfer forces
can also he
provided by the pushers, who may have less injury exposure due to ergonomic
and
physiological considerations.
Correspondingly, the transfer sheet strength may be selected to move
relatively
heavy patients, but with lower push and pull forces due to the transfer system
design.
For example, the transfer sheet may be designed to have both a minimum
strength
selected to meet or exceed a preselected or recommended pull force, and a
breaking
strength selected to act as a mechanical fuse, in order to protect the pulling
caregiver
when patient weight, body angle and/or other factors may result in an unsafe
pull force.
In particular, the materials of the transfer sheet may be selected and
configured to have
strength sufficient to withstand a pull of a selected minimum force, but also
have a sheet
yield or break limit threshold when subjected to a greater pull force.
Suitable ranges for the minimum pull strength and maximum yield or breaking
strength of the transfer sheet include, but are not limited to, about 35 lbs
(150-160 N),
about 50 lbs (220-230 N), about 75 lbs (about 330-340 N), and about 100 lbs
(about
440-450 N), about 150 lbs (660-270 N), and about 200 lbs (880-890 N), or more,
and
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values therebetween. The maximum or yield strength is selected to be higher
than the
minimum pull strength, for example about twice as high or more, about three
times as
high or more, about five times as high or more, or about ten times as high, or
more.
These values can be selected so that the tensile strength of the transfer
sheet is sufficient
to allow for heavy patient transfers, but also selected at a level that
provides a
mechanical fuse or failure warning, when the transfer configuration may exceed
safe pull
force limits.
ADDITIONAL DESIGN ALTERNATIVES ¨ TRANSFER DEVICE
FIG. 22A is a perspective view of patient transfer system or device 2100, for
example according to the embodiment of FIG. 21, or otherwise as described
herein. In
this ergonomic configuration, device 2100 includes housing 2130 formed with
first and
second opposing elongated sides (or elongated frame members) 2131 and 2132,
and first
and second opposing ends (or end caps) 2135 and 2136, respectively.
As shown in FIG. 22A, first and second opposing ends 2135 and 2136 of
housing 2130 are dimensioned for housing 2130 to span a gap distance DS
between first
surface 2121, at or proximate first side 2131 of housing 2130, and second
surface 2122,
at or proximate second side 2132 of housing 2130. A support deck or bridge
2140 is
positioned at least partially or fully within housing 2130, and configured to
support a
patient or other body during transfer from first side 2131 of housing 2130 and
across
support bridge (or bridge support) 2140 to second side 2132 of housing 2130.
Bridge 2140 is disposed at least partially within housing 2130, and coupled to
first and second end caps 2135 and 2136 or other members that transfer weight
on bridge
2140 to first and second opposing elongated sides (or elongated frame members)
2131
and 2132. Bridge 2140 can be provided in a roller or roller-less design, and
with or
without a continuous transfer belt 2150, as described herein.
As shown in FIG. 22A, for example, support bridge 2140 is spaced between first
and second sides 2131 and 2132 of housing 2130, defining a channel or pathway
through
housing 2130 for transfer belt 2150. Depending on configuration, transfer belt
2150 may
be formed of a strong, flexible material such as a polymerized fabric, and
provided in a
conveying relationship about or encircling bridge 2140. The channel may
extend, for
example, from a first opening proximate first side 2131 of housing 2130,
continuing
below bridge 2140 and between bridge 2140 and the bottom of housing 2130, then
to a
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second opening proximate second side 2132 of housing 2130 (see, e.g., FIGS.
24A-
24C).
The bottom of housing 2130 extends between first and second ends (or end caps)
2135 and 2136, spanning distance DS between first and second surfaces 2121 and
2122,
with first side 2131 supported on first surface 2121 and second side 2132
supported on
second surface 2122. This configuration spaces support deck or bridge 2140 and
transfer
belt 2150 from surfaces 2121 and 2122 while allowing weight on the bridge 2140
to be
transferred to these surfaces. Thus, transfer belt 2150 (and any transfer
sheet material)
can move with the patient from first side 2131 of housing 2130 toward second
side 2132,
while housing 2130 and device 2100 remains substantially stationary with
respect to first
and second surfaces 2121, and without contact between transfer belt 2150 or
support
bridge 2140 and either of surfaces 2121 and 2122.
During the transfer process, the weight of the patient is supported by bridge
2140,
for example with vertical (gravitational) loading transferred from the patient
body
through one or both of transfer belt sheet 1950 and belt 2150, onto top
support
surface 2141 of bridge 2140. Support deck or bridge 2140 and transfer belt
2150 are
isolated from first and second surfaces 2121 and 2122 by the bottom of housing
2130,
and by first side 2131 and second side 2132 of device 2100, respectively, but
may
transfer weight to these surfaces via the structure housing 2130 Similarly,
where a
transfer sheet 1950 or other material is used, the transfer sheet is spaced
from (that is,
does not contact) first (initial) surface 2121, reducing the risk of cross-
contamination by
transport of bedding and other unnecessary materials from first surface 2121
to second
surface 2122. This "spaced" or "isolated" patient transfer configuration also
reduces the
number of manipulations required in each patient transfer, as compared to
other devices,
and as described herein.
These various embodiments have in common removing the need to lift a patient's
full weight in favor of placing the patient on a sheet 1950 that is supported
so as to be
relatively easily moved with the patient on it. In general, to allow attending
providers to
perform a transfer, the device and sheet together offer a transfer motion that
involves
little friction, notwithstanding patient weight. However, if too little
friction may mean
reduced control of the motion of the patient, particularly if the device 2100
were angled
downward toward a destination surface and a patient might gain too much
momentum,
the device may be equipped with a braking component that can provide or
selectively
apply friction that allows greater motion control. For example, an adjustable
pad may
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apply a greater of lesser level of friction to continuous belt 2150. Providing
for such
control may reduce jostling that may cause patient discomfort.
Note that the designations of first and second sides 2131 and 2132 of
housing 2130 are arbitrary, as are the designations of first and second ends
2135
and 2136, and first and second surfaces 2121 and 2122. Thus, any or all of
these
designations may be interchanged or reversed, without loss of generality. For
example,
support bridge 2140 and belt 2150 may be configured to transfer a patient in
either
direction, from first side 2131 to second side 2132 of device housing 2130, or
from
second side 2132 to first side 2131. Housing 2130 of transfer device 2100 can
also be
rotated in either a horizontal or vertical plane, or both, for example to
exchange the
respective locations of first and second sides 2131 and 2132 with respect to
first and
second surfaces 2121 and 2122, and/or to exchange the locations of first and
second ends
(or end caps) 2135 and 2136.
As shown in FIG. 22A, transfer sheet 1950 extends from the channel opening
adjacent first side 2131 of housing 2130, and wraps amund top surface 2141 of
support
bridge 2140. This may be accomplished, for example, by using adhesive strips
or
tabs 1955 to attach sheet 1950 to transfer belt 2150, as described above, and
then
translating continuous belt 2150 from second side 2132 of housing 2130 toward
first side
2131, in order to load transfer sheet 1950 onto belt 2150 and into housing
2130 of patient
transfer device 2100.
After loading, the exposed end 1957 of transfer sheet 1950 extends from
housing 2130 and over top surface 2141 of support bridge 2140 on continuous
belt 2150,
as shown in FIG. 22A. An additional adhesive strip 1955 may be used to attach
the
exposed end 1957 of transfer sheet 1950 to device 2100 until ready for use,
for example
.. by attaching adhesive strip 1955 to the outer surface of belt 2150, or to
side 2132 of
housing 2130. Alternatively, a transfer sheet 1950 or other transfer material
may be
loaded directly into device 2100 by wrapping the material around support deck
2140
without using a continuous belt 2150, as described herein. In these
embodiments, an
adhesive 1955 may still be provided for use on exposed end 1957 of transfer
sheet 1950.
or no adhesive strips 1955 may be provided.
FIG. 22B is an end view of patient transfer device 2100, shown without
transfer
belt 2150 or sheet 1950. First side 2131 of housing 2130 is formed by an
elongated
frame member oriented toward the left of the drawing, and second side 2132 is
formed
by an elongated frame member oriented toward the right of the drawing,
opposite first
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side 2131. First end cap 2135 is oriented toward the front of the drawing, and
second
end cap 2136 is oriented at the back, opposite first end cap 2135.
As shown in FIG. 22B, channel 2145 has first opening 2146 defined between top
surface 2141 of support bridge 2140 and first side 2131 of housing 2130, with
second
opening 2147 defined between top surface 2141 of bridge 2140 and second side
2132 of
housing 2130. Openings 2146 and 2147 of channel 2145 space bridge 2140 between
first and second sides 2131 and 2132 of housing 2130, with channel 2145
extending
under bridge 2140 to accommodate the transfer belt and/or for loading a
transfer sheet, as
described above.
POSITIONING FEATURES
FIG. 22C is a bottom view of the patient transfer device 2100, presenting
bottom
surface 2138 of housing 2130 with first end 2135 oriented toward the left of
the drawing
and second end 2136 oriented toward the right. In this example, transfer
device 2100 is
provided with a plurality of feet or other positioning features 2160 along its
edges. For
example, feet 2160 may be a high friction material (e.g., rubber or similar
elastomer),
and arranged in two rows along opposite sides 2131 and 2132 of housing 2130,
in order
to hold housing 2130 of device 2100 substantially stationary during transfer
of a patient
from one surface to another, as described herein.
FIG. 23A is a profile view of patient transfer device 2100, illustrating the
positioning of non-skid features or feet 2160. In the rotated orientation of
FIG. 23A, first
end 2135 of housing is positioned to the right, and second end 2136 is
positioned to the
left, with first side 2131 of housing 2130 in front and second side 2132 in
back. A
plurality of six feet 2160 is arranged in a row along first side 2131 of
housing 2130. An
additional row of feet 2160 may be similarly arranged along second side 2132,
opposite
the row of feet 2160 on first side 2131, for example as shown in FIG. 22C.
Alternatively, there may be more or fewer individual features 2160 in each
row, for
example two, three, or a different number, or a single extended positioning
feature 2160
may be used, extending along each of side 2131 and side 2132, respectively.
FIG. 23B is a detail view of patient transfer device 2100, illustrating the
sloped
side transition and contoured edge configuration. In FIG. 23B, side 2131 of
housing 2130 is foliated with a sloped transition or contoured edge region
2170, for
example including an elongated internal frame member 2171 attached with one or
more
bolts, screws or other mechanical fasteners 2172. Positioning elements or feet
2160 may
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be attached to the bottom of contoured edge region 2170 via mechanical
fasteners 2172,
or using an adhesive or a chemical or thermal bond.
As shown in FIG. 23B, positioning elements or feet 2160 can be provided in a
contoured region 2170 along one or both of first side 2131 and second side
2132 of
housing 2130, adjacent first (initial) surface 2121 or second (destination)
surface 2122.
Contoured region 2170 is configured with gradually increasing top slope TS and
bottom
(or base) slope SB, converging toward outside edge 2173 of housing 2130. This
provides the side of housing 2130 with a decreasing thickness or height
profile, with
converging top and bottom slopes TS and SB selected for increased patient
comfort,
decreased resistance, and improved ergonomics while positioning transfer
device 2100
between the patient (or other body) 2115 and surface 2121 (or 2122), while
transferring
body 2115 from first surface 2121 onto device 2100, and while transferring
body 2115
from device 2100 onto second surface 2122.
Feet 2160 may be formed of a rubberized plastic or other material selected to
position housing 2130 on surface 2121 (or 2122), and to hold patient transfer
device
2100 substantially stationary with respect to the surface during transport of
patient 2115.
In particular, the material of feet 2160 can be selected for non-skid
performance or
increased friction along the bedding or other material forming surface 2121,
as compared
to the bottom and side surfaces of housing 2130.
Thus, in normal operation device 2100 does not travel with the patient (or
other
body) during the transfer process, as in some other (e.g., roller board)
designs. It is
nonetheless recognized that some vertical motion of device 2100 may occur
during
transfer of body 2115, for example on bedding or other resilient surfaces
2121. In
addition, some slippage of feet 2160 and/or sides 2131, 2132 of housing 2130
may also
occur, for example over bed linens and other loose materials, or even over a
smooth
surface such as metal or plastic.
The term "substantially stationary," therefore, as used with respect to device
2100
and housing 2130 herein, indicates that at least a portion of first side 2131
of
housing 2130 remains in contact with first surface 2121 during normal
operation of
device 2100; that is, during the patient transfer process (e.g., assuming
surfaces 21212,
2122 are not greatly different in height), until device 2100 and housing 2130
are
manually repositioned. Likewise, the second (opposite) side 2132 may maintain
similar
contact with the second (destination) surface 2122 during the patient transfer
process,
until device 2100 and housing 2130 are repositioned. The portions of device
2100 in
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contact with the respective initial and final surfaces may include, but are
not limited to,
one or more sides of housing 2130 (e.g., side 2131 and/or side 2132), any
contoured
region 2170 along the side of housing 2130, and any one or more feet or other
positioning features 2160. The positioning features as disposed along a bottom
surface
of at least one contoured edge region are configured to hold the transfer
apparatus
substantially stationary with respect to at least one of the first and second
surfaces in
transfer of a patient.
AL FERNATIVE BRIDGE DESIGNS
Positioning features (feet) 2160 may also have a sloped or beveled surface,
for
example with converging slope FS as shown in FIG. 23B. These various slopes
TS, SB
and FS in contoured region 2170 of housing 2130 allow device 2100 to be tilted
up and
down for easier insertion and removal, for example by sliding outside edge
2173 of
housing 2130 along surface 2121 (or 2122), close to the patient body 2115, and
then
tilting housing 2130 down toward surface 2121 (or 2122) to increase contact
between
feet 2160 and surface 2121. For removal, housing 2130 of device 2100 can be
tilted
back up, away from surface 2121 (or 2122), sliding outside edge 2173 away from
patient
or body 2115 along surface 2121 (or 2122).
FIG. 24A is a cross-sectional end view of transfer device 2100, in a roller
bridge
embodiment. In this configuration, support deck or bridge 2140 includes first
and
second elongated rollers 2221 and 2222, positioned adjacent openings 2146 and
2147 of
channel 2145, and along first and second elongated sides (or side members)
2131 and
2132 of housing 2130, respectively.
Continuous transfer belt 2150 is positioned in conveying relationship about
support Midge 2140 and rollers 2221 and 2222, in order to transfer a patient
or other
body from first side 2131 of housing 2130 toward second side 2132, or from
second side
2132 of housing 2130 toward first side 2131. Thus, the body moves in conveying
relationship with transfer belt 2150 (and any transfer sheet 1950), from first
side 2131 of
housing 2130 (at or proximate first surface 2121) and across support bridge
2140 to
second side 2132 of housing 2130 (at or proximate second surface 2122).
Top surface 2141 of bridge 2140 may be coated in order to reduce friction with
moving belt 2150, or another reduced friction surface may be used. Suitable
coating and
surface finishing techniques for reduced friction surfaces include, but are
not limited to,
powder coating (e.g., a free-flowing, dry powder coating technique), textured
surface
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applications, film coating, vapor deposition, spraying, and other coating and
surfacing
techniques selected for reduced friction, durability and other properties, as
described
herein. Transfer belt 2150 may also be provided with a reduced friction (e.g.,
inner)
surface or layer, for example a silicone impregnated nylon or other material,
which is
selected to reduce friction along the interface between transfer belt 2150 and
the facing
(e.g., top) support surface 2141, and other areas of contact with support
bridge 2140.
In powder coated and other reduced-friction surfaces, the reduction in the
friction
coefficient may result from a combination of coating materials and texture,
e.g., an
"orange peel" texture or other irregular texture that reduces the surface area
of contact
between the top surface of the bridge and the bottom surface of the belt or
sheet.
Alternatively, a smooth or textured surface may be provided with a different
coating
material, for example a synthetic resin coating such as a TEFLON coating or a
silicone
coating material.
With respect to powder coating, there are two coating categories: thermosets
and
__ thet ___________________________________________________ moplastics. The
thet mosetting variety of powder coating material incorporates a
cross-linker into the formulation. When the powder is baked, the cross-linker
reacts with
other chemical groups in the powder to polymerize, improving performance
properties.
The thermoplastic variety does not undergo additional actions during the
baking process,
hut rather flows out into the final coating.
Suitable polymers used in the disclosed coatings may include, but are not
limited
to, polyester, polyurethane, acrylics, polyester-epoxy (or hybrid) materials,
and
"straight" or substantially epoxy materials (e.g., a fusion bonded epoxy
material). In
production of the powder coating, granules of the selected polymer(s) are
mixed with
hardener, pigments and other powder ingredients. The mixture is heated in an
extruder,
rolled flat, cooled and broken into small chips which are milled and sieved to
make a fine
powder, for application to the selected surfaces of the device.
More generally, the low coefficient of friction for the powder coated surface
results from a combination of the powder coated material itself, and the
hardness, gloss
level, size and physical geometry of the texture. A variety of versatile
polymers such as
polyester can be used for the coating material, and may be formulated with
physical
properties selected to produce durable, tough, strong, and resilient coated
surfaces. The
hardness also contributes to the "slipperiness" of the coating, in that it
resists deforming
when force is applied, helping to keep the amount of surface area contact
lower.
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The high points of the hard textured surface act like small ball bearings, as
opposed to more compliant or pliable materials like rubber. The textured
geometry also
has an effect, as it interacts with the belt or sheet material sliding across
it. If the texture
pattern is too similar to the surface sliding across it, for example, the
peaks and valleys
can align and "lock" together for an instant, increasing friction and drag
forces.
The gloss level of the finish also contributes. If a surface has more of a
matte
finish, at a microscopic level the particles refract light in all directions
because of the
misalignment of the particles on the surface, which can also cause an increase
in friction.
A more "glossy" surface, on the other hand, will be more uniform at a
microscopic level,
producing a smoother surface and reflecting light in a more uniform manner.
This type
of surface will not resist material sliding across it as much as a matte
surface would.
The same principles can also be applied to the belt and sheet materials, and
how
they interact with the powder coated (or other friction coated) surface. For
fiber
materials, in particular, the "hardness," diameter, weave pattern, stiffness,
etc. can be
selected for friction properties, so that the sheet or belt slides across the
textured powder
coated surface with reduced drag forces and energy loss, when operated in the
disclosed
patient transfer systems.
FIG. 24B is a cross-sectional end view of transfer device 2100, in a roller-
less
bridge embodiment In this configuration, support deck or bridge 2140 may have
a
substantially unitary construction, with elongated, contoured end members 2231
and
2232 in place of rollers 2221, 2222, as shown in FIG. 24A. In this roller-less
or "solid
state- configuration, support bridge 2140 may have no or substantially no
moving (i.e.,
conveying) parts during the transfer operation, in order to reduce weight and
increase
service life and durability. To reduce friction with respect to motion of
transport
belt 2150, the surfaces of bridge 2140 that contact belt 2150 may be powder
coated, or
have another coating or surface treatment selected to reduce friction. The
coated
surfaces may include, for example, not only top surface 2141 of bridge 2140,
but also
bottom surface 2142, as well as the outer surfaces of contoured end members
2231 and
2232.
FIG. 24C is a cross-sectional end view of transfer device 2100, in a beltless
embodiment. In this example, support bridge 2140 is provided in "solid state"
or roller-
less form, with substantially no moving parts as described above, and without
transfer
belt 2150 as shown in FIGS. 24A and 24B. Instead, a transfer sheet 1950 or
other
material may be inserted directly into channel 2145, for example extending
from
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opening 2146 and wrapping around support bridge 2140 as shown in FIG. 25C.
Alternatively, the transfer sheet 1950 may be pulled from a pocket into which
a folded or
rolled sheet is placed with a portion extending or therefrom, e.g., a multi-
sheet
dispensing cartridge (see FIGS. 27A-27C) located on the side of the device
2100 that is
placed under the patient before moving.
In this embodiment, transfer sheet 1950 is positioned in direct contact with
support bridge 2140; for example, the bottom surface or layer of transfer
sheet 1950 and
top surface 2141 of bridge 2140, and/or any one or more of bottom surface 2142
of
bridge 2140 and the outer surfaces of contoured end members 2231 and 2232 may
be in
planar contact. Powder coating or another surface coating or finishing
technique can be
used on any or all of these device surfaces to reduce friction, as described
above. In
addition, transfer sheet 1950 may be provided with a compatibly low friction
bottom
layer, e.g., a silicone impregnated fabric or film coating, or other reduced
friction
material.
A bottom surface of the bottom layer of such a transfer sheet 1950, opposite
the
absorbent layer and the permeable layer, may comprise a low friction material
matched
or coordinated with a low friction adjacent surface of the support bridge
2140, and the
layers of the transfer sheet may have sufficient tensile strength to allow a
patient
supported on the sheet 1950 to he pulled across the low friction adjacent
surface of the
support bridge 2140 of the patient transfer device. Such a transfer sheet 1950
may not
typically require adhesive strips or tabs for a belt attachment. For
situations where
greater control over the motion of a transferred patient is desired (such as
if the device
2100 were angled downward toward a destination surface and a patient might
gain too
much momentum) sheet 1950 may be selected with a low friction bottom layer
that
affords some friction when it slides across bridge 2140.
FIG. 25A is a perspective view of patient transfer device 2100, with support
bridge 2140 and transfer belt 2150 removed. In this configuration, bridge 2140
is
removable and replaceable within cavity 2310 of device housing 2130, for
example using
spring biased pins or other release mechanisms 2320, which are received into
corresponding indents or holes 2330 in ends 2135 and 2136 of housing 2130,
facing the
inside of bridge cavity 2310.
As shown in FIG. 25A, pins 2320 and corresponding holes or indents 2325 can
be configured to couple support bridge 2140 to ends 2135 and 2136 of housing
2130,
with transfer belt 2150 positioned in conveying relationship about bridge
2140, and
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spaced between opposite sides 2131 and 2132 of device 2100, as described
above. Pins
or release mechanisms 2320 and the corresponding holes or indents 2325 can
also be
keyed so that bridge 2140 is only received one way within housing 2130, or to
prevent
rotation or inversion of bridge 2140 within bridge cavity 2310. Alternatively,
bridge
2140 may have a symmetric design, and pins 2320 and indents 2325 may be
configured
to accept bridge 2140 in a variety of different orientations with respect to
housing 2130
and bridge cavity 2310.
FIG. 25B is an exploded view of patient transfer device 2100. In this
configuration, device 2100 includes bottom housing 2138, bottom frame 2139,
support
bridge 2140 with bridge frame 2148 and transfer belt 2150, and top housing
2149.
Frame and housing components 2138, 2139, 2148 and 2149 may be foimed of
plastic
polymers, wood, metal, composite materials, and combinations thereof, as
described
above.
Bottom housing 2138, bottom frame 2139 and top housing 2149 can be coupled
together to form device housing 2130 via by mechanical fastening, or by
thermal or
chemical bonding. Bridge frame 2148 may be configured to removably receive
support
bridge 2140 within housing 2130, for example using a keyed pin or other
releasable
locking arrangement, as described above.
STORAGE WITH SHEET DISPENSER
FIG. 26A is a front view of an alternate storage unit 2400 for transfer
device 2100, for example as configurable in a wall mount or wheeled cart
embodiment,
as described above. In this particular example, a plurality of transfer sheets
1950 is
provided in a multiple-sheet box or cartridge-type dispenser assembly 2410,
with a
slotted opening or other aperture 2420 for user access to individual transfer
sheets 1950.
FIG. 26B is an illustration of a method for attaching transfer sheet 1950 to
patient
transfer device 2100. In this example, a health care worker or other user can
pull the top
edge or border of transfer sheet 1950 up from dispenser 2410, and attach sheet
1950 to
transfer belt 2150 utilizing one or more adhesive strips or tabs 1955.
FIG. 26C is an illustration of a method for loading transfer sheet 1950 onto
patient transfer device 2100. In this example, the health care worker or other
user can
roll transfer belt 2150 upward to feed transfer sheet 1950 into the housing of
device 2100, for example via the top channel opening, as described above.
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FIG. 26D is an illustration of patient transfer device 2100 loaded with
transfer
sheet 1950. After loading transfer sheet 1950. device 2100 may be removed from
storage unit 2400 for use in a patient transfer operation, for example in a
hospital, clinic
or home care setting, or in an emergency response or transport vehicle, as
described
above.
FIG. 27A is an illustration of dispenser system 2610 for patient transfer
device or
apparatus 2600. In this example, a plurality of transfer sheets 2650 is
provided within a
cartridge-type dispenser system 2610. Cover 2612 of dispenser 2610 may form
part of
device housing 2630, with individual transfer sheets 2650 presented at opening
2645
.. between support bridge (or transfer deck) 2640 and first side 2631 of
housing 2630.
Thus, device 2650 is easily loaded for multiple patient transfers, each using
a
sequentially dispensed transfer sheet 2650, in a single loading process.
In other respects, device 2600 can be configured according to any of patient
transfer devices 300, 1800 or 2100, as described herein. In these various
embodiments,
device housing 2630 spaces bridge 2640 from first and second surfaces 2121 and
2122,
so that neither bridge 2640 nor the transfer belt (it used) touches either
surface. This
improves ergonomics and reduces the risk of cross-contamination, as described
above,
and device 2600 remains substantially stationary while the patient or other
body is
transferred from first (initial) surface 2121, at or adjacent first side 2631
of device
housing 2630 to second (destination) surface 2122, at or adjacent the opposite
(second)
side 2632.
FIG. 27B is a perspective view of patient transfer device 2600, loaded with
cartridge dispenser 2610 including a plurality of transfer sheets 2650. In
this
configuration, the near end of device housing 2630 is shown in cutaway view,
showing
dispenser 2610 disposed substantially beneath the bridge or transfer deck
2640. Transfer
sheet 2650 loads over bridge 2640 from opening 2645 adjacent first side 2631
of
housing 2630, as described above.
Transfer sheets 2650 may be single-use articles with one or more features of
transfer sheet 700, 1900 or 1950, or a single-use or multiple use linen or
textile/fabric
material, as described herein. Transfer sheet 2650 is isolated from first
(initial) surface
2221 by housing 2630, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. Transfer sheet
2650
can also be left in place beneath the patient on second (destination) surface
2122,
reducing the number of required patient manipulations, as described above.
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FIG. 27C is an alternate illustration of patient transfer device 2600, showing
dispenser system 2610 in a different configuration. In this example, cover
2612 of
dispenser 2610 forms a bottom part of device housing 2630, for example opening
down
to load a cartridge of transfer sheets 2650 into first side 2631 of device
2600.
FIG. 28A is a perspective view of patient transfer device 2100, illustrating
the
configuration of a handle or other ergonomic feature 2710. In this example,
handle 2710
is formed as an indentation on one or both end caps 2135 and 2136 of device
housing 2130, as shown in the lower right of FIG. 28A. Handle 2171 may include
a
textured surface 2720 for improved handling, for example as shown in the upper
left
detail of second end cap 2136.
FIG. 28B is an alternate perspective view of ergonomic handle feature 2710, in
a
different embodiment. In this example, ergonomic handle 2710 is presented on
the top
surface of one or both end caps 2135 and 2136 of device housing 2130, as shown
in the
lower right of FIG. 28B. An additional indentation-type ergonomic feature 2710
may
also be provided adjacent bottom housing 2138, for example as shown in the
upper left
detail of second end cap 2136.
Alternatively, or in addition, handles or ergonomic features 2710 may also be
provided on one or both of sides 2131 and 2132 of housing 2130. Device 2100
may also
have alternate configurations, for example as described above for patient
transfer
devices 300, 1800 and 2600.
TABBED SHEET DESIGNS
FIG. 29A is a bottom view of a tabbed transfer or "wrap" sheet 2250, for
example
a tabbed embodiment of a transfer sheet 700, 1900 or 1950, as configured for
use with a
patient transfer device 300, 1800 or 2600. Alternatively, a tabbed sheet 2250
may be
independently provided and utilized for wrapping about a patient, with or
without a
transfer device or patient transfer operation.
In the particular configuration of FIG. 29A, tabbed sheet or wrap 2250
includes
two tabs, bands or straps 2270, extending from opposite edges 2261 and 2262 of
sheet
2250 and across bottom or base layer 2251. Alternatively, a single tab or band
2270 may
be provided along either edge 2261 or 2262, or one or more bands 2270 may be
provided
at both edges 2261 and 2262.
Suitable materials for tabs, bands or straps 2270 include, but are not limited
to,
the materials used for other components of sheet 700, 1900 or 1950, as
described herein.
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For example, tabs or bands 2270 may be formed as an integral or connected
extension of
bottom layer 2251, using the same or similar materials as any of bottom layer
2251,
middle layer 2252, and/or top layer 2253. Strong reinforcing materials may
also be used
in tabs or bands 2270, for example a spun polymer or woven fiber material, as
described
herein.
Free ends 2271 and 2272 of tabs or bands 2270 may be removably attached to
sheet 2250 prior to deployment. For example, an adhesive or similar material
2275 may
be provided to detachably adhere free ends 2271 and 2272 of each tab or band
2270 to
the bottom surface (or base layer) 2251 of sheet 2250. The opposite end of
each tab or
band 2270 may be permanently or integrally attached or fixed to sheet 2250,
for example
along one or both of opposite ends or edges 2261 and 2262, as shown in FIG.
29A, or
within the border region as described above (see, e.g., FIG. 20A).
FIG. 29B is an end view of tabbed sheet 2250, showing the configuration of
tabs
or bands 2270. As shown in FIG. 29B, free ends 2271 and 2272 of each tab or
band
2270 may be removed from bottom layer 2251 of sheet 2250 for deployment (see
arrow
DA), tor example before, during or after a patient transfer. In the deployed
configuration, free ends 2271 and 2272 can be manipulated from a position
below or
opposing bottom surface 2251 of sheet 2250, to a position over or opposing top
surface
2253 (arrow 1)13). Additional adhesive 2275 may he applied to the top or
bottom
surfaces of free ends 2271 and 2272 of each tab or band 2270, e.g., for
securing tabbed
sheet 2250 about a patient, as described below.
FIG. 29C is an end view of tabbed sheet 2250, with bands 2270 deployed. As
shown in Fig. 29C, free ends 2271 and 2272 are positioned above top layer 2251
of sheet
2250. The opposite ends of tabs or bands 2270 remain fixed to sheet 2250, for
example
along fixed ends or edges 2261 and 2262 (that is, along the opposite edges of
sheet
2250), opposite free ends 2271 and 2272.
FIG. 29D is a top view of tabbed sheet 2250, as deployed about a patient or
other
body 2115. As shown in FIG. 29D, sheet 2250 is wrapped about the torso of
patient
2115, with tabs or bands 2270 attached to opposite sides of sheet 2250 with
adhesive
2275. For example, tabs or bands 2270 may be attached to the bottom (outside)
layer of
sheet 2250, or the top (inside) layer facing patient 2115. In either
configuration, sheet
2250 is deployed to hold arms 2125 (and/or other limbs) of patient 2115 in
place, in
order to prevent or reduce motion, injury and discomfort during the patient
transfer
process, and in later recovery.
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One relatively common post-operative and recovery complication addressed by a
tabbed sheet 2250 is the occurrence of corneal abrasion. Recovering from
anesthesia,
unconscious or semi-conscious patients may manipulate their arms to "itch" or
"scratch"
their eyes, for example in a post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) or other
recovery
environment. Sometimes, this may result in corneal abrasion, or other injury
or
complication.
Corneal abrasions are among the more frequent ocular complications following
general anesthesia, and can present a painful burden to recovering (e.g.,
postoperative)
patients 2115. Corneal abrasions can occur during or in recovery from general
anesthesia
procedures, monitored anesthesia care, and regional anesthesia applications.
Typically, post-operative eye injuries are attributable to patients 2115
rubbing
their eyes, or due to pulse oximeters or bed linens. The etiology and
pathophysiology of
corneal abrasions in the perioperative period are well defined, and risk
factors have been
identified in trials.
The risk factors include, for example, patient position (e.g., prone or
lateral) and
increased procedure length. In particular, longer procedures may pose a
greater risk to
patients, and practitioners may consider prophylactic lubrication in such
cases,
particularly when performed in the prone or lateral position.
Depending upon the risk level, tabs 2170 or similar features may he deemed
medically advisable or medically necessary, or provided as a standard
physician's order.
Thus, tabbed or banded sheets 2250 may be utilized as gentle restraints or
positioners to
prevent or reduce the risk of corneal abrasion and other post-operative
injuries, and to
reduce the associated rates of re-admission due to such complications.
In the tabbed or banded configurations described herein, extended tabs 2770
can
be manipulated to strap, secure or gently "bind" arms 2225 (dashed lines) of
patient 2115
to his or her or sides while under the influence of anesthesia, or otherwise
in an altered
state of consciousness. For example, tabs or bands 2270 may removably adhere
to sheet
2250 with glue or other adhesive material 2275 covered with a removable paper
or tab,
as described above. Alternatively, tabs or bands 2270 may be adhered to one
another, or
tied together or otherwise mechanically fastened, for example utilizing a
string, textile or
other woven material extending from or manufactured to together with the
material of
sheet 2250, as described above.
Generally, applications of a tabbed "wrap" sheet 2250 may be regarded as
preventive measure, with sheet 2250 configured to relatively gently hold arms
(or other
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limbs) 2125 of patient 2115 in place during the transfer and recovery process,
rather than
an outright restraint, as known in the art. Alternatively, the material of
extended tabs or
bands 2270 may be selected to provide relatively more or relatively less
tensile and
holding strength and restraint capability, depending upon application. The
material
characteristics of adhesive 2275 may also be appropriately selected, depending
upon the
desired (e.g., removable or permanent) bonding strength.
FIG. 30A is a plan view of the tabbed transfer or wrap sheet, in an alternate
configuration. As shown in FIG. 30A, tabs or bands 2270 may also be provided
on top
surface 2253 of sheet 2250, or on bottom surface 2251, as described above.
Tabs or
bands 2270 may also extends along opposite ends or edges 2261 and 2262 of
sheet 2250,
attached at either end (that is, attached at either the top or bottom of FIG.
30A, and free
at the opposite end).
FIG. 30B is a top view of tabbed sheet 2250, with tabs or bands 2270 deployed.
In FIG. 30B, tabs, bands or straps 2270 extend front the facing edges 2261 and
2262 of
sheet 2250, and are attached at the opposite edges or ends 2262 and 2261,
respectively.
Tabs or bands 2270 may be adhered to the bottom (outer) or top (inner) surface
of sheet
2250 using adhesive 2275, for example in a crossed or diagonal configuration
as shown.
FIG. 30C is a top view of tabbed sheet 2250, wrapped about patient 2115 with
tabs or hands 2270 attached to opposing ends or edges of the bottom layer or
bottom
surface 2251. In this configuration, tabs or bands 2170 are deployed to retain
arms 2125
in position during patient transfer and recovery, for example to reduce the
risk of
postoperative injury or other complication, as described above. In particular,
a tabbed
"wrap" sheet 2250 may be deployed about patient 2115 as shown in FIG. 30C when
there is substantial a risk of corneal abrasion or other complication due to
unconscious or
semiconscious manipulation of limbs 2125 by patient 2115.
While this invention has been described with reference to exemplary
embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various
changes can be
made and different equivalents may be substituted for particular elements
thereof,
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The invention is
thus not
limited to the particular examples that are disclosed, but can also be adapted
to different
problems and situations, and applied with different materials and techniques,
without
departing from the essential scope of embodiments encompassed by the appended
claims.
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