U.S. patent application number 17/065288 was filed with the patent office on 2021-04-08 for transfer device docking indicator.
The applicant listed for this patent is Nexxspan Healthcare, LLC. Invention is credited to Alexander Bally, Eric Richard Colburn.
Application Number | 20210100635 17/065288 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005476176 |
Filed Date | 2021-04-08 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210100635 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bally; Alexander ; et
al. |
April 8, 2021 |
TRANSFER DEVICE DOCKING INDICATOR
Abstract
A transfer system can include a receiver; and a transfer device
including: a housing comprising a first docking cup and a second
docking cup, each of the first docking cup and the second docking
cup configured to receive and lockably engage the receiver; a
security mechanism positioned inside the housing and configured to
engage with the receiver through either of the first docking cup
and the second docking cup; and a pair of indicators coupled to the
security mechanism and at least partially visible from outside the
housing, each of the pair of indicators configured to indicate to a
user of the transfer system that the receiver has been lockably
engaged with one of the first docking cup and the second docking
cup.
Inventors: |
Bally; Alexander; (Marston
Mills, MA) ; Colburn; Eric Richard; (Pittsburgh,
PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Nexxspan Healthcare, LLC |
Norcross |
GA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005476176 |
Appl. No.: |
17/065288 |
Filed: |
October 7, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62912371 |
Oct 8, 2019 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 5/1417 20130101;
A61B 90/90 20160201; A61G 7/0503 20130101; A61B 50/20 20160201 |
International
Class: |
A61B 90/90 20060101
A61B090/90; A61B 50/20 20060101 A61B050/20; A61G 7/05 20060101
A61G007/05 |
Claims
1. A transfer system comprising: a receiver; and a transfer device
comprising: a housing comprising a first docking cup and a second
docking cup, each of the first docking cup and the second docking
cup configured to receive and lockably engage the receiver; a
security mechanism positioned inside the housing and configured to
engage with the receiver through either of the first docking cup
and the second docking cup; and a pair of indicators coupled to the
security mechanism and at least partially visible from outside the
housing, each of the pair of indicators configured to indicate to a
user of the transfer system that the receiver has been lockably
engaged with one of the first docking cup and the second docking
cup.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the security mechanism comprises:
a first security lever; a first biasing member engaged with the
first security lever and configured to bias the first security
lever towards engagement with the receiver; a second security
lever; and a second biasing member engaged with the second security
lever and configured to bias the second security lever towards
engagement with the receiver.
3. The system of claim 2, further comprising a support post
configured to support a patient care apparatus, the support post
positioned between the first security lever and the second security
lever.
4. The system of claim 2, wherein a thickness of each of the first
security lever and the second security lever is substantially
constant.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the pair of indicators is a first
pair of indicators, the transfer device further comprising a second
pair of indicators positioned on a side of the transfer device that
is opposite from a side of the transfer device on which the first
pair of indicators is positioned.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein a first indicator of the first
pair of indicators is fixably joined to a first indicator of the
second pair of indicators via an indicator linkage.
7. The system of claim 6, wherein the pair of indicators are
fixably joined to each other via a pivot shaft of the indicator
linkage and configured to move in unison.
8. A transfer device comprising: a housing comprising a first
docking cup and a second docking cup, each of the first docking cup
and the second docking cup configured to receive and lockably
engage a receiver of a transfer system; a security mechanism
positioned inside the housing; and a pair of indicators coupled to
the security mechanism and at least partially visible from outside
the housing, each of the pair of indicators configured to indicate
to a user of the transfer system that the receiver has been
lockably engaged with one of the first docking cup and the second
docking cup.
9. The device of claim 8, wherein the housing comprises a pair of
housing halves defining identical geometry.
10. The device of claim 8, wherein each of the pair of indicators
comprises a mounting hub and a first portion extending radially
outward from the mounting hub.
11. The device of claim 8, wherein each of the pair of indicators
defines a weakened area, each indicator of the pair of indicators
configured to deform first at the weakened area upon contact with a
load.
12. The device of claim 8, wherein at least a portion of each of
the pair of indicators is positioned outside the housing.
13. The device of claim 8, wherein each of the pair of indicators
is positioned inside the housing but visible from outside the
housing.
14. The device of claim 8, wherein each of the pair of indicators
extends from or is visible from one of an upward facing surface and
a side facing surface of the housing.
15. The device of claim 8, wherein the housing defines at least one
mark for each of the pair of indicators, the mark indicating one of
engagement and disengagement of the security mechanism with the
receiver.
16. A method of using a transfer system, the method comprising:
lockably engaging a transfer device of the transfer system with a
receiver of the transfer system, the transfer device comprising: a
housing comprising a first docking cup and a second docking cup,
lockably engaging the transfer device comprising lockably engaging
the receiver with one of the first docking cup and the second
docking cup; a security mechanism positioned inside the housing;
and a pair of indicators coupled to the security mechanism and at
least partially visible from outside the housing; and positioning a
first indicator of the pair of indicators in a first indicating
position with respect to the housing, the first indicating position
indicating to a user of the transfer system that the receiver has
been lockably engaged with the one of the first docking cup and the
second docking cup.
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising aligning a first
indicator of the pair of indicators with a first mark on the
housing.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein the positioning step is
performed automatically by the transfer device upon lockable
engagement of the receiver into the one of the first docking cup
and the second docking cup.
19. The method of claim 16, further comprising moving the first
indicator with a pin secured to a security lever of the security
mechanism.
20. The method of claim 16, further comprising interfering with
disengagement of a receiver of the transfer system from the
corresponding one of the first docking cup and the second docking
cup when the first indicator is engaged.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/912,371, filed Oct. 8, 2019, which is hereby
specifically incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
Field of Use
[0002] This disclosure relates to transfer systems such as those
used in a patient care environment. More specifically, this
disclosure relates to transfer devices indicating a condition of
engagement of disengagement with a support platform.
Related Art
[0003] In the care of medical patients, various medical equipment
such as, for example and without limitation, infusion management
equipment and supplies, pressure transducers, physiological
monitors, and other equipment can be employed. Such equipment can
be set up at the patient's bedside, where it can be supported by
various stands, racks or hangers. For example, the equipment may be
supported by 5-star floor stands, headwalls, booms such as those
affixed to a ceiling, floor or wall mounted columns, or on other
stationary or mobile platforms.
[0004] Such patients can at times be transported between rooms or
facilities to facilitate their care. Such transports can often be
necessary under emergency conditions while patients are distressed
and frail, and for this reason and others it can be beneficial to
complete such transports rapidly and with minimal disruption of
therapy, life support, and monitoring.
[0005] In addition to moving the patient bed, caregivers must
typically also wheel several intravenous-fluid (IV) stands next to
or behind a bed, or pile the equipment onto the mattress next to
the patient. These techniques can prove hazardous because the IV
stands may fall and tear out patient connections. Such patient
transports can also be inefficient and costly because significant
staff time is required to prepare a patient for transport and many
caregivers are needed for moving the equipment in tandem with the
bed along corridors, into and out of elevators, and through
doors.
[0006] Some transfer systems exist for supporting and transferring
equipment from one support platform to another to facilitate
transport of patients, but it is not always clear to caregivers
during use of the transfer systems when the equipment and
specifically a transfer device of the transfer system supporting
the equipment is positively locked in place and ready for
transport. In some conditions, including when the components of the
transfer system are not properly aligned, docking of one component
with another may not occur as expected.
SUMMARY
[0007] It is to be understood that this summary is not an extensive
overview of the disclosure. This summary is exemplary and not
restrictive, and it is intended to neither identify key or critical
elements of the disclosure nor delineate the scope thereof. The
sole purpose of this summary is to explain and exemplify certain
concepts of the disclosure as an introduction to the following
complete and extensive detailed description.
[0008] In one aspect, disclosed is a transfer system comprising: a
receiver; and a transfer device comprising: a housing comprising a
first docking cup and a second docking cup, each of the first
docking cup and the second docking cup configured to receive and
lockably engage the receiver; a security mechanism positioned
inside the housing and configured to engage with the receiver
through either of the first docking cup and the second docking cup;
and a pair of indicators coupled to the security mechanism and at
least partially visible from outside the housing, each of the pair
of indicators configured to indicate to a user of the transfer
system that the receiver has been lockably engaged with one of the
first docking cup and the second docking cup.
[0009] In a further aspect, disclosed is a transfer device
comprising: a housing comprising a first docking cup and a second
docking cup, each of the first docking cup and the second docking
cup configured to receive and lockably engage a receiver of a
transfer system; a security mechanism positioned inside the
housing; and a pair of indicators coupled to the security mechanism
and at least partially visible from outside the housing, each of
the pair of indicators configured to indicate to a user of the
transfer system that the receiver has been lockably engaged with
one of the first docking cup and the second docking cup.
[0010] In yet another aspect, disclosed is a method of using a
transfer system, the method comprising: lockably engaging a
transfer device of the transfer system with a receiver of the
transfer system, the transfer device comprising: a housing
comprising a first docking cup and a second docking cup, lockably
engaging the transfer device comprising lockably engaging the
receiver with one of the first docking cup and the second docking
cup; a security mechanism positioned inside the housing; and a pair
of indicators coupled to the security mechanism and at least
partially visible from outside the housing; and positioning a first
indicator of the pair of indicators in a first indicating position
with respect to the housing, the first indicating position
indicating to a user of the transfer system that the receiver has
been lockably engaged with the one of the first docking cup and the
second docking cup.
[0011] Various implementations described in the present disclosure
may comprise additional systems, methods, features, and advantages,
which may not necessarily be expressly disclosed herein but will be
apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of
the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. It is
intended that all such systems, methods, features, and advantages
be included within the present disclosure and protected by the
accompanying claims. The features and advantages of such
implementations may be realized and obtained by means of the
systems, methods, features particularly pointed out in the appended
claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent
from the following description and appended claims, or may be
learned by the practice of such exemplary implementations as set
forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects
of the disclosure and together with the description, serve to
explain various principles of the disclosure. The drawings are not
necessarily drawn to scale. Corresponding features and components
throughout the figures may be designated by matching reference
characters for the sake of consistency and clarity.
[0013] FIG. 1 is a side view of a transfer system in a medical
environment, the transfer system comprising a stationary support
platform, a mobile support platform, and a transfer device
supporting a patient care apparatus in accordance with one aspect
of the current disclosure, the transfer device comprising a set of
indicators.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a transfer system in
accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the transfer device of FIG.
1 together with a receiver of a first support platform and a
receiver of a second support platform.
[0016] FIG. 4 is a side perspective exploded view of the transfer
device of FIG. 3.
[0017] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the transfer device and the
receivers of FIG. 3 with a portion of a housing of the transfer
device removed.
[0018] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the transfer device and the
receivers of FIG. 3 with the entire housing of the transfer device
and certain other components removed.
[0019] FIG. 7 is a front view of a security lever of a security
mechanism of the transfer device of FIG. 3.
[0020] FIG. 8 is a top view of the security lever of FIG. 7.
[0021] FIG. 9 is an end view of the security lever of FIG. 7 facing
an end of the security lever defining a feeler.
[0022] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a bottom pivot assembly
of the transfer device of FIG. 3A.
[0023] FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective view of a bottom pivot shaft
of the bottom pivot assembly of FIG. 10.
[0024] FIG. 12 is an end or front view of the bottom pivot shaft of
FIG. 11.
[0025] FIG. 13 is a face or side view of a bottom pivot link of the
bottom pivot assembly of FIG. 10.
[0026] FIG. 14A is a front view of an indicator of the bottom pivot
assembly of FIG. 10.
[0027] FIG. 14B is a front view of the indicator of the bottom
pivot assembly of FIG. 10 in accordance with another aspect of the
current disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 14C shows a front view of the indicator of the bottom
pivot assembly of FIG. 10 in accordance with another aspect of the
current disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 15A is a front perspective view of a transfer device
together with the receiver of a first support platform and the
receiver of a second support platform, the transfer device
comprising a set of indicators in accordance with another aspect of
the current disclosure and with the set of indicators in a first
indicating condition showing the receiver of the first support
platform lockably engaged with a first docking cup of the transfer
device.
[0030] FIG. 15B is a front perspective view of the transfer device
and the receivers of FIG. 15A with a portion of the housing of the
transfer device removed.
[0031] FIG. 15C is a side top perspective view of the transfer
device and the receivers of FIG. 15A.
[0032] FIG. 16A is a front view of a transfer device together with
a receiver of a first support platform and a receiver of a second
support platform, the transfer device comprising a set of
indicators in accordance with another aspect of the current
disclosure and with the set of indicators in a first indicating
condition showing the receiver of the first support platform
lockably engaged with a first docking cup of the transfer
device.
[0033] FIG. 16B is a front view of the transfer device and the
receivers of FIG. 16A with the set of indicators in a second
indicating condition showing the receiver of the second support
platform lockably engaged with a second docking cup of the transfer
device.
[0034] FIG. 17A is a front view of a transfer device together with
a receiver of a first support platform and a receiver of a second
support platform, the transfer device comprising a set of
indicators in accordance with another aspect of the current
disclosure and with the set of indicators in a first indicating
condition showing the receiver of the first support platform
lockably engaged with the first docking cup of the transfer
device.
[0035] FIG. 17B is a front view of the transfer device and the
receivers of FIG. 17A with the set of indicators in a second
indicating condition showing both of the receivers engaged but not
lockably engaged with respective first and second docking cups of
the transfer device.
[0036] FIG. 17C is a front view of the transfer device and the
receivers of FIG. 17A with the set of indicators in a third
indicating condition showing the receiver of the second support
platform lockably engaged with the second docking cup of the
transfer device in accordance with another aspect of the current
disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 17D is a front perspective view of the transfer device
of FIG. 17A with at least a portion of the housing of the transfer
device removed.
[0038] FIG. 17E is a front exploded perspective view of an
indicator and a security lever of a security mechanism of the
transfer device of FIG. 17A.
[0039] FIG. 18A is a top perspective view of a transfer device
together with a receiver of a first support platform and a receiver
of a second support platform in accordance with another aspect of
the current disclosure, the transfer device comprising a set of
indicators in accordance with another aspect of the current
disclosure and with the set of indicators in a first indicating
condition showing the receiver of the first support platform
lockably engaged with the first docking cup of the transfer
device.
[0040] FIG. 18B is a top perspective view of the transfer device
and the receivers of FIG. 18A with a portion of the housing of the
transfer device removed.
[0041] FIG. 18C is a front view of the transfer device and the
receivers of FIG. 18A with the portion of the housing of the
transfer device removed.
[0042] FIG. 18D is a front sectional view of the transfer device
and the receivers of FIG. 18A with the portion of the housing of
the transfer device removed and taken along line 18D-18D of FIG.
18A.
[0043] FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a housing of the transfer
device of FIG. 1 in accordance with another aspect of the current
disclosure.
[0044] FIG. 19B is a sectional view of the housing of FIG. 19 in
accordance with another, more simplified aspect of the current
disclosure.
[0045] FIG. 19C is a top view of the housing of FIG. 19 in close
proximity to a mating housing having identical geometry.
[0046] FIG. 20A is a front view of the transfer device of FIG. 1
together with a receiver of the first support platform, a receiver
of the second support platform, and a patient care apparatus
supported by the transfer device, with the set of indicators of the
transfer device in a first indicating condition showing the
receiver of the first support platform lockably engaged with the
first docking cup of the transfer device.
[0047] FIG. 20B is a front view of the transfer device, the
receivers, and the patient care apparatus of FIG. 20A with the set
of indicators in a second indicating condition showing the
respective receivers of the first support platform and the second
support platform inserted into but not lockably engaged with each
of the first docking cup and the second docking cup of the transfer
device.
[0048] FIG. 20C is a front view of the transfer device, the
receivers, and the patient care apparatus of FIG. 20A with the set
of indicators in a third indicating condition showing the receiver
of the second support platform lockably engaged with the second
docking cup of the transfer device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0049] The present disclosure can be understood more readily by
reference to the following detailed description, examples,
drawings, and claims, and their previous and following description.
However, before the present devices, systems, and/or methods are
disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this
disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, systems, and/or
methods disclosed unless otherwise specified, as such can, of
course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used
herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and
is not intended to be limiting.
[0050] The following description is provided as an enabling
teaching of the present devices, systems, and/or methods in their
best, currently known aspect. To this end, those skilled in the
relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be
made to the various aspects described herein, while still obtaining
the beneficial results of the present disclosure. It will also be
apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present
disclosure can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the
present disclosure without utilizing other features. Accordingly,
those who work in the art will recognize that many modifications
and adaptations to the present disclosure are possible and can even
be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of the present
disclosure. Thus, the following description is provided as
illustrative of the principles of the present disclosure and not in
limitation thereof.
[0051] As used throughout, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the"
include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a quantity of one of a
particular element can comprise two or more such elements unless
the context indicates otherwise. In addition, any of the elements
described herein can be a first such element, a second such
element, and so forth (e.g., a first widget and a second widget,
even if only a "widget" is referenced).
[0052] Ranges can be expressed herein as from "about" one
particular value, and/or to "about" another particular value. When
such a range is expressed, another aspect comprises from the one
particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly,
when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the
antecedent "about" or "substantially," it will be understood that
the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further
understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant
both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the
other endpoint.
[0053] For purposes of the current disclosure, a material property
or dimension measuring about X or substantially X on a particular
measurement scale measures within a range between X plus an
industry-standard upper tolerance for the specified measurement and
X minus an industry-standard lower tolerance for the specified
measurement. Because tolerances can vary between different
materials, processes and between different models, the tolerance
for a particular measurement of a particular component can fall
within a range of tolerances.
[0054] As used herein, the terms "optional" or "optionally" mean
that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may
not occur, and that the description comprises instances where said
event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.
[0055] The word "or" as used herein means any one member of a
particular list and also comprises any combination of members of
that list. The phrase "at least one of A and B" as used herein
means "only A, only B, or both A and B"; while the phrase "one of A
and B" means "A or B."
[0056] To simplify the description of various elements disclosed
herein, the conventions of "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top,"
"bottom," "upper," "lower," "inside," "outside," "inboard,"
"outboard," "horizontal," and/or "vertical" may be referenced.
Unless stated otherwise, "front" describes that end of the transfer
system nearest to and occupied by a user of the transfer device;
"rear" is that end of the transfer device that is opposite or
distal the front; "left" is that which is to the left of or facing
left from a person facing towards the front of the transfer device;
and "right" is that which is to the right of or facing right from
that same person while facing towards the front of the transfer
device. "Horizontal" or "horizontal orientation" describes that
which is in a plane extending from left to right and aligned with
the horizon. "Vertical" or "vertical orientation" describes that
which is in a plane that is angled at 90 degrees to the
horizontal.
[0057] A transfer device and associated methods, systems, devices,
and various apparatuses are disclosed herein. The transfer device
can comprise a security mechanism. The transfer device can further
comprise a docking indicator configured to indicate to a user a
state, condition, or position of the security mechanism or a
portion thereof.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 1, a transfer system 50 can include support
platforms 30a,b and a transfer device 100. Either of the support
platforms 30a,b can be a stationary support platform or a mobile
support platform or can be convertible between stationary and
mobile configurations. As shown, the support platform 30a can be
the stationary support platform and the support platform 30b can be
the mobile support platform. The transfer device 100 can support a
patient care apparatus 60 and can transfer the patient care
apparatus 60 from the support platform 30a to the support platform
30b and vice versa. For example and without limitation, a support
shaft or support post 296 (shown in FIG. 3) of the transfer system
100 can support the patient care apparatus 60. As used in the
instant disclosure, the term "transfer" refers to transferring
patient support equipment such as the patient care apparatus 60
between support platforms such as, for example and without
limitation, the support platforms 30a,b.
[0059] The support platform 30a can comprise, for example and
without limitation, a wall, a headwall, a ceiling-mounted or
wall-mounted boom, a free-standing or movable column or other
structure, including that which can be found in a hospital room or
other patient treatment facility. The support platform 30b can
comprise, for example and without limitation, a patient bed 40 as
shown, a gurney; a wheelchair; an ambulance, helicopter, or other
vehicle; or another mobile platform. Each of the support platforms
30a,b can comprise a receiver 110a,b, which can be configured to
receive and support the transfer device 100. Each of the receivers
110a,b can also be a docking cone in that a shape of an outer
surface 111 (shown in FIG. 3) of each of the receivers 110a,b can
be at least in part conical or frustoconical. To indicate lockable
engagement, i.e., secure docking of the receiver 110a,b inside the
transfer device 100, the transfer device can comprise an indicator
120 (shown, e.g., in FIG. 14A) or a set of indicators 120a,b
(shown, e.g., in FIG. 3).
[0060] As shown, each of the support platforms 30a,b can comprise
an arm 70a,b, which can support the respective receiver 110a,b. In
some aspects, the receiver 110a can be secured to the arm 70a, and
the arm 70a can be secured to a stationary structure such as a wall
91 through, for example and without limitation, a connector 31a or
a pole 36 or both the connector 31a and the pole 36. Similarly, the
arm 70b can be secured to a mobile structure such as the patient
bed 40 by using a connector 31b. The connector 31b can be mated to
an accessory bracket 46 of the patient bed 40 via an adapter 49 or
other connection.
[0061] When treated in a hospital room, a patient can be connected
to the patient care apparatus 60. The patient care apparatus 60 can
be attached to the transfer device 100, docking cups 175a,b (shown
in FIG. 3) of which can be rotatably docked to the respective
receivers 110a,b. By articulating the arms 70a,b, the receivers
110a,b, and the connectors 31a,b, the corresponding support
platforms 30a,b can be positioned for optimal patient care. When
the patient care apparatus 60 is physically detached from the
patient bed 40 while the patient is in a room, caregivers can have
greater access or even unobstructed access to the patient all
around the patient bed 40. As used in the instant disclosure, the
term "docking" and "docking maneuver" refers to inserting one of
the receivers 110a,b into one of the docking cups 175a,b of the
transfer device 100 while the receivers 110a,b and the docking cups
175a,b are generally in coaxial alignment and in a load-bearing
relationship. The arms 70a,b can comprise one or more articulating
arm segments, which can extend the reach and flexibility of the
transfer system 50.
[0062] The patient bed 40 can comprise a mattress 42. A height 48
of the mattress 42 relative to a floor 92 or any other height
measurement of the patient bed 40 can be adjustable by a lift
mechanism 43, which can be powered by any source of power such as,
for example and without limitation, an electric motor or hand
crank. The patient bed 40 can comprise a height-adjustable frame
41, which can comprise the accessory bracket 46. The accessory
bracket 46 can be positioned proximate to a headboard 45 of the
patient bed 40. The accessory bracket 46 can be used to secure a
variety of accessories such as, for example and without limitation,
push handles, foldable IV poles, guide wheels or orthopedic frames,
and the transfer device 100 disclosed herein. Any component of the
support platform 30b such as, for example and without limitation,
the arm 70b can be attached to the accessory bracket 46 of the
patient bed 40 or directly to the patient bed 40 by welds,
mechanical fasteners, clamps, or other known fastening methods.
[0063] FIG. 2 discloses the transfer system 50 in accordance with
another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the transfer
system 50 can comprise a transfer apparatus 230, the support
platform 30a, and the support platform 30b, which can comprise a
mobile stand-alone support platform 270. Various elements of the
transfer system 50 can be compatible with the structures disclosed
in FIG. 1. With such compatibility, the docking cups 175a,b (shown
in FIG. 3) of newer transfer devices 100 including those disclosed
herein can receive the receivers 110a,b of older support platforms
30a, 30b, and the docking cups 175a,b of older transfer devices 100
can receive the receivers 110a,b of newer support platforms
30a,b.
[0064] The transfer apparatus 230 can comprise the transfer device
100 and the patient care apparatus 60. The patient care apparatus
60 can comprise an offset arm 234 and a pole 233, which in some
aspects can be an IV pole. The patient care apparatus 60 can
comprise a patient care device 238 such as, for example and without
limitation, an IV pump as shown. In some aspects, a center of
gravity of the patient care device 238 can be located directly over
the support post 296. In some aspects, the patient care apparatus
60 can comprise multiple IV poles, hooks 236, one or more IV
infusion pumps, or another type of patient care device mountable
either directly or indirectly on the pole 233 or the offset arm 234
or another portion of the patient care apparatus 60. In some
aspects, a patient care apparatus kit 260 can comprise the patient
care apparatus 60 and the support post 296 and can be installed or
replaced in the field to change the configuration of the particular
patient care apparatus 60 as desired by the user.
[0065] The support platform 30a can comprise the pole 36, the
connector 31a, a connecting link arm 213, and a receiver arm 214.
The arm 70a can comprise the connecting link arm 213 and the
receiver arm 214. The brackets used to secure the pole 36 to a
nearby stationary structure of the support platform 30a can be
configured to support a load measuring as much a hundred pounds or
more. The patient care apparatus 60 can weigh in excess of 100
pounds.
[0066] The mobile stand-alone support platform 270 can comprise a
base 272 and a support pole 276, which can be mounted to the base
272 with a connector 275. The base 272 can comprise a leg support
271, which can be a leg or a caster. With the leg supports 271, the
mobile stand-alone support platform 270 to be transported to and
between those aforementioned environments where a support platform
30a,b is otherwise not available.
[0067] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the transfer device 100
together with the receiver 110a of the support platform 30a and the
receiver 110b of the support platform 30b. As shown, the transfer
device 100 can comprise one or more of the indicators 120a,b, the
purpose of which will now be described. The docking cups 175a,b and
the receivers 110a,b can be configured to lockably engage with each
other. In some conditions, however, misaligned or damaged
components of the transfer system 50 can fail to properly dock.
More specifically, when sufficiently misaligned or damaged, one
component of the transfer system 50 such as the receiver 110a,b can
fail to lockably engage with another component of the transfer
system 50 such as one of the docking cups 175a,b of the transfer
device 100. A position of one or more of the indicators 120a,b can
signal to a user of the transfer device 100--and of the transfer
system 50 more broadly--that the receiver 110a,b has or has not
positively and lockably engaged with the corresponding docking cup
175a,b of the transfer device 100. With this knowledge, the user
can correct the misalignment or other issue by adjusting an angle
or a height of a portion of the support platform 30b such as the
patient bed 40 (shown in FIG. 1) or other structure, take the
transfer system 50 offline, and/or alert responsible individuals as
appropriate.
[0068] As also shown, the receiver 110a is shown disengaged from
the docking cup 175a of the transfer device 100, and the receiver
110b is shown engaged with the docking cup 175b of the transfer
device 100. Alignment of the indicators 120a,b with marks 350a,b
can indicate disengagement and alignment with marks 351a,b can
indicate engagement with the docking cups 175a,b. This is reflected
in the respective positions of the indicators 120a,b as shown: the
indicator 120a corresponding to the receiver 110a is pointing
towards a mark 350a indicating disengagement, and the indicator
120b corresponding to the receiver 110b is pointing towards a mark
351b indicating disengagement. The transfer device 100 can comprise
a housing 310 defining a top end 305, a bottom end 306, and an axis
301 aligned with the support post 296 and extending from the top
end 305 to the bottom end 306. In some aspects, the transfer device
100 and, more specifically, the housing 310 can define a single
mark such as the mark 350a, 350b or 351a, 351b for each of the
indicators 120a,b to indicate the aforementioned engagement or
disengagement. Alignment with the single mark can indicate
engagement (or disengagement, as the case may be, depending on the
orientation and design of the mark as a means of communicating
meaning to a user) and lack of alignment can indicate disengagement
(or engagement, depending on the orientation and design of the
mark).
[0069] In some aspects, as shown, the housing 310 of the transfer
device 100 can comprise two housing halves 320a,b, which can be
joined along a central joint plane optionally aligned with the axis
301 with assembly fasteners (not shown) to form a generally hollow,
thin-walled clamshell housing 310 suitable for cost-effective
molding or casting. Each housing half 320a,b can have generally
smooth, easy-to-clean exterior surfaces 321a,b and can define label
recesses 428 (shown in FIG. 4) to permit covering and sealing the
assembly fasteners and other surface irregularities with labels 330
for effective infection control, for a better aesthetic appearance,
and as a surface in or on which to provide marks for indicating a
position of one or more portions of a security mechanism 410 (shown
in FIG. 4). In other aspects, the housing 310 can be formed other
than with the housing halves 320a,b and can, for example and
without limitation, be formed by an upper housing portion and a
lower housing portion joined together as shown in FIGS. 2 and
18A-18D. The interior surfaces 322a,b (322a shown in FIG. 4, 322b
shown in FIG. 15B) of housing halves 320a,b or an interior surface
322 of the housing as otherwise formed can define bosses, ribs, and
other features. As will be described, such features can cooperate
to retain, for example and without limitation, the aforementioned
assembly fasteners, pivot pins, and biasing members as well as
other structural and/or functional elements such as docking cups
175a,b and the support post 296.
[0070] FIG. 4 is a side perspective exploded view of the transfer
device 100. As shown, an inner surface 476a,b defined by an inner
wall 475a,b of each of the respective docking cups 175a,b can face
downward and can be positioned in the two housing halves 320a,b
such that docking cups 175a,b are able to receive and are
configured to receive the receivers 110a,b as shown in FIG. 3. The
docking cups 175a,b can define respective docking cup axes 311a,b,
which can be spaced apart sufficiently to avoid interference caused
by the support platforms 30a,b (shown in FIG. 3) being in close
proximity with each other. The docking cup axes 311a,b may be
parallel with respect to each other as shown or, as shown in FIGS.
16A and 16B, converging toward a point. Each of the docking cups
175a,b and, more specifically the inner walls 475a,b and the inner
surfaces 476a,b thereof can define a frustoconical cavity, while
each of the receivers 110a,b (shown in FIG. 3) can define a
frustoconical outer surface. The transfer device 100 and, more
specifically, the housing 310 can comprise docking rings 340a,b
positioned on the bottom end 306 of the housing 310. As shown, the
docking rings 340a,b can define the bottom end 306 of the housing
310. The docking rings 340a,b can be toroid bodies and can
terminate, reinforce, and provide accurate concentricity to a
bottom opening of each of the docking cups 175a,b.
[0071] As shown, the transfer device 100 can comprise first pair
and a second pair of the indicators 120a,b. Each of the first pair
and the second pair of the indicators 120a,b can be positioned on
opposite sides of the transfer device 100 from each other (i.e.,
the second pair of indicators 120a,b can be positioned on a side of
the transfer device 100 that is opposite from a side of the
transfer device 100 on which the first pair of the indicators
120a,b is positioned). Moreover, the first pair and the second pair
of the indicators 120a,b can be joined to each other via an
indicator linkage 610a,b (shown in FIG. 6).
[0072] The housing 310 and, in some aspects, more specifically the
housing halves 320a,b of the transfer device 100 can enclose the
security mechanism 410. The housing halves 320a,b can be aligned
with and assembled about the security mechanism 410 and with the
indicators 120a,b along assembly axes 421a,b. Each of the housing
halves 320a,b can define indicator bosses 425a,b, which can be
concentric with the assembly axes 421a,b to help position and
retain a portion of the security mechanism 410 coupled to the
indicators 120a,b and facilitate smooth and consistent operation of
same. The housing halves 320a,b can define security lever bosses
415a,b, which can be concentric with pivot axes 411a,b to help
position and retain security levers 450a,b of the security
mechanism 410 and facilitate smooth and consistent operation of
same. As shown, the security levers 450a,b can be assembled in a
reverse relationship with each other and can be retained by and
pivot about pivot pins 1590, which can be retained in the bosses
415a,b. The housing halves 320a,b can define attachment points
435a,b, one or more of which can be bosses and can engage with
biasing members 570a,b (shown in FIG. 5).
[0073] In some aspects, as shown, a pair of biasing members 570a or
570b can extend between the housing and a corresponding security
lever 450a,b. In some aspects, a single biasing member 570a,b or
more than two biasing members 570a,b can extend between the housing
and the corresponding security lever 450a,b. Each of the biasing
members 570a,b can be a spring or other biasing structure or
element defining a spring constant and configured to store energy.
A spring constant of each of the biasing members 570a,b or
combination of the biasing members 570a,b can be adjusted to
increase or decrease a biasing force resulting from extension of
the biasing members 570a,b from their natural positions. In some
aspects, as shown, each of the biasing members 570a,b can be a
tension spring, which can be configured to be stretched while
storing potential energy. In some aspects, each of the biasing
members 570a,b can be a compression spring, which can be configured
to be compressed while storing potential energy. In some aspects,
each of the biasing members 570a,b can be a torsion spring, in
which ends of the spring can be configured to rotate while storing
potential energy.
[0074] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the transfer device 100 and
the receivers 110a,b with a portion of the housing 310--and
specifically the housing half 320b (shown in FIG. 4)--of the
transfer device 100 removed. Each of the receivers 110a,b can
define a cylindrical portion 513 at a respective upper end 515a,b,
which can define a respective receiver tip or cone tip 517a,b
(shown in FIG. 6), and a frustoconical portion 514 at a lower end
516a,b. Between the upper end 515a and the lower end 516b and, in
some aspects, between the cylindrical portion 513 and the
frustoconical portion 514 the outer surface 111 of each of the
receivers 110a,b can step closer to or be offset towards the
respective docking cup axis 311a,b to form a security notch 580a,b.
The security mechanism 410 and, more specifically, the security
levers 450a,b can engage the respective security notches 580a,b in
the respective receivers 110a,b.
[0075] When engaged, the security mechanism 410 can eliminate the
risk of accidentally disconnecting or dislodging the transfer
device 100 from the receiver 110a,b to which it can be docked.
Again, the security mechanism 410 can be fully enclosed inside the
housing 310. Each security lever 450a,b of the security mechanism
410 can comprise a security latch 560a,b, which can pivot as part
of the security lever 450a,b about a pivot point 548a,b defined by
a pivot hub or pivot portion 540a,b from a first secured position
to a second released position, or into and out of engagement with
the security notch 580a,b of the receivers 110a,b to control
retention of the receiver 110a,b in the respective docking cup
175a,b of the transfer device 100. More specifically, the pivot
point 548a,b can comprise a respective pivot pin 1590. Each
security lever 450a,b can also comprise a feeler 550a,b, which can
cause the respective security latch 560a,b of the respective
security lever 450a,b to pivot from the first secured position to
the second released position in response to being displaced upward,
against the bias of the biasing members 570a,b, by the respective
upper end 515a,b of the receiver 110a,b.
[0076] When the first receiver 110a is in docking engagement with
the first docking cup 175a of the transfer device 100, the transfer
device 100 cannot be removed from the first receiver 110a as long
as the second docking cup 175b is not in docking engagement with
the second receiver 110b. The transfer device 100 can remain
lockably engaged with the first receiver 110a in this condition
because the absence of the second receiver 110b within the second
docking cup 175b and the feeler 550b of the second security lever
450b not being lifted or engaged by the second receiver 110b can
leave the security latch 560b of the second security lever 450b
engaged with the first receiver 110a as shown in the first secured
position. The security latch 560b of the second security lever 450b
can automatically engage with the security notch 580a of the first
receiver 110a by influence of the aforementioned biasing members
570a,b. The biasing members 570a,b can by default keep the
respective feelers 550a,b in a lower position with respect to the
respective docking cup 175a,b as the security lever 450a,b is
biased toward the lower position by the respective biasing members
570a,b. The biasing members 570a,b can pull on respective
attachment portions 590a,b, each of which can be an attachment
hook, towards the respective stationary attachment points 435a,b on
the housing 310. The biasing members 570a,b can thereby tend to
rotate or be configured to bias the respective security levers
450a,b into locking engagement with the opposite receivers 110a,b.
As shown, the biasing members 570a,b can be engaged with or, more
specifically, in contact with the respective security levers
450a,b.
[0077] Similarly, when the second receiver 110b is in docking
engagement with the second docking cup 175b of the transfer device
100, the transfer device 100 cannot be removed from the second
receiver 110b as long as first docking cup 175a is not in docking
engagement with the first receiver 110a. Thus, the security
mechanism 410 prevents the transfer device 100 from being removed
from any one support platform 30a,b unless and until the transfer
device 100 is docked to another support platform 30a,b to which it
is being transferred. Only simultaneous, full docking engagement
inside both docking cups 175a,b by two the receivers 110a,b causes
the security mechanism 410 to automatically release both of the
security latches 560a,b from locking engagement with the receivers
110a,b, permitting a caregiver the choice of either releasing the
transfer device 100 from the receiver 110a docked to the docking
cup 175a, or releasing the transfer device 100 from the receiver
110b docked to the docking cup 175b. Extracting the receiver 110a
by even a short distance such as, for example and without
limitation, 1/4 inch or less from the docking cup 175a can cause
the security mechanism 410 to engage with the opposite receiver
110b, and vice versa.
[0078] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the transfer device 100
(shown in FIG. 3) and the receivers 110a,b with the entire housing
310 (shown in FIG. 3) of the transfer device 100 and certain other
components removed. The security levers 450a,b can interact with
and cause rotation or other movement of the indicators 120a,b,
depending on the configuration of the indicators 120a,b. In some
aspects, as shown, this interaction can be via the indicator
linkage 610a,b.
[0079] More specifically, a position or movement of the indicator
linkage 610a can be controlled by a position or movement of the
security lever 450b, and a position or movement of the indicator
linkage 610b can be controlled by a position or movement of the
security lever 450a. In some aspects, as shown, a pin 690b, which
can be a guide pin and can extend through a portion of the security
lever 450b proximate to the security latch 560b such as a pin bore
770 (shown in FIG. 7), can extend through and engage with the
indicator linkage 610a, and movement of the pin 690b (which can be
caused by movement of the security lever 450b) can cause
movement--and, in some aspects, rotation--of the indicator linkage
610a and thereby also the indicator 120a. Similarly, in some
aspects, a pin 690a (shown in FIG. 5), which can be a guide pin and
can extend through a portion of the security lever 450a proximate
to the security latch 560a such as the pin bore 770, can extend
through and engage with the indicator linkage 610b, and movement of
the pin 690a (which can be caused by movement of the security lever
450a) can cause movement--and, in some aspects, rotation--of the
indicator linkage 610b and thereby also the indicator 120b. In some
aspects, as shown, the pins 690a,b can be roll, split, or spring
pins. In other aspects, the pins 690a,b can be another pin or
fastener secured to the security lever 450a,b or can be formed
monolithically with the security lever 450a,b. In some aspects, as
shown, each of the indicators 120a,b can comprise multiple
indicators for indicating to the user from multiple sides of the
transfer device 100 that the transfer device 100 is or is not
lockably engaged with a particular receiver 110a,b.
[0080] FIGS. 7-9 show a security lever 450, which can correspond to
the security levers 450a,b (shown in FIG. 6) of the security
mechanism 410 (shown in FIG. 6) of the transfer device 100. More
specifically, the security lever 450 shown can correspond to each
of the security levers 450a,b, which can define the same geometry
and be interchangeable with each other. FIG. 7 is a front view of
the security lever 450. FIG. 8 is a top view and FIG. 9 is a side
view of the security lever 450. As shown in FIG. 7, the security
lever 450 can comprise a feeler 550 corresponding to the feelers
550a,b and the security latch 560 corresponding to the security
latches 560a,b of the respective security levers 450a,b. The
security lever 450 can define a pivot axis 411 and the pivot
portion 540, about which the security lever 450 can rotate,
corresponding to the pivot portions 540a,b of the security levers
450a,b. The security lever 450 can further define the attachment
portion 590, corresponding to the attachment portions 590a,b of the
respective security levers 450a,b.
[0081] The security lever 450 can be a rigid bar or plate defining
an inner surface or first side surface 451 (shown in FIG. 8) and an
outer surface or second side surface 452 as well as the following
corners or "ends" of the security lever 450: the pivot portion 540,
the feeler 550, and the security latch 560. As shown in FIG. 8, the
security lever 450 can define a set of bends 811 and 812, which can
effectively offset a second portion 456 of the security lever 450
with respect to a first portion 455. This offset can minimize the
space required for the security mechanism 410, align a centerline
801 (shown in FIG. 8) of the security lever 450 at the pivot
portion 540 and the first portion 455 with the corresponding
docking cup axis 311a,b, which can be an axis of the corresponding
receiver 110a,b, and allow the security levers 450a,b to pass by
one other in close proximity without interference. Each of the
bends 811 and 812 can define any desirable bend angle including a
bend angle 807 of 45 degrees.
[0082] The pivot portion 540 can be formed monolithically from the
security lever 450 and can define a pivot point 548 corresponding
to the pivot points 548a,b of the security levers 450a,b. In some
aspects, the pivot point 548a,b can be a bore extending partially
or completely through the pivot portion 540 of the security lever
450. In other aspects, the pivot point 548a,b can extend from a
surface of the security lever 450 into the housing 310 (FIG. 4) or
be otherwise restrained by the housing 310.
[0083] In some aspects, the feeler 550 can be formed monolithically
from the security lever 450 and can define or be defined by, for
example and without limitation, a flange 950 (shown in FIG. 9),
which can be bent from the second portion 456 of the security lever
450 as shown. In other aspects, the feeler 550 can be formed from a
separate part joined to the security lever 450.
[0084] In some aspects, the security latch 560 can be formed
monolithically from the security lever 450 and can define a tab,
finger, or finger-shaped protrusion sized to be received by and
into the corresponding security notch 580a,b (shown in FIG. 5) of
the receivers 110a,b.
[0085] In some aspects, the security lever 450 can define a simple
closed polygonal shape such as that of a rectangle or triangle,
particularly if in such case the security lever 450 will not
interfere with the housing 310 of the transfer device. In other
aspects, as shown in FIG. 7, the security lever 450 can define a
relatively complex shape with multiple cutouts along a perimeter
703 of the security lever 450 defining various straight or
radiussed edges, which can permit the security lever 450 to reach
around or avoid features of the housing 310 such as, for example
and without limitation, the inner walls 475a,b (shown in FIG. 4) of
the docking cups 175a,b (shown in FIG. 4), the feeler 550 of an
adjacent security lever 450, the indicator linkage 610a,b (shown in
FIG. 6), and the interior surface 322 (shown in FIG. 4) of the
housing 310, which can be in close proximity to the security lever
450. At the same time, a strength of the security lever 450 can be
maintained by maximizing the width of various sections (and
reducing the aforementioned cutouts), by maximizing a thickness of
the security lever 450 itself, or, as will be described, by
adjusting the material itself. In some aspects, a thickness of the
security lever 450 can be at least 10 gage. In other aspects, the
thickness of the security lever 450 can be other than 10 gage. The
thickness of the security lever 450 can be substantially constant
(i.e., constant other than in locations where deformation during
its fabrication may cause variations in thickness).
[0086] Pivot pins 1590 (shown in FIG. 4) can be inserted into and
extend between security lever bosses 415a,b (shown in FIG. 4) on
the interior surfaces 322a,b (322a shown in FIG. 4, 322b shown in
FIG. 15B) of first and second housing halves 320a,b (shown in FIG.
4). Each of the security levers 450a,b (shown in FIG. 4) can be
rotatably attached to the pivot pins 1590 at the pivot points
548a,b to permit each security lever 450a,b to pivot as previously
described. Each of the security levers 450a,b can define an upper
edge 708 and a lower edge 709, each of which can extend from the
pivot portion 540 to the feeler 550.
[0087] FIG. 10 shows the indicators 120 and an indicator linkage
610 to which the indicators 120 can be coupled. The indicator
linkage 610 can define and correspond to each of the indicator
linkages 610a,b (shown in FIG. 6) of the transfer device 100 (shown
in FIG. 5) and can be considered a portion of the security
mechanism 410 (shown in FIG. 6). FIG. 10 is a top perspective view
of a bottom pivot assembly of the indicator linkage 610 of the
transfer device 100. As shown, the indicator linkage 610 can
comprise a pivot shaft 1010, a pair of pivot links 1020, a pair of
washers or spacers 1050, a pair of the indicators 120, and a pair
of indicator fasteners 1090.
[0088] As shown, a rotational position of each of the pivot links
1020 and the pair of the indicators 120 can be fixed with respect
to the pivot shaft 1010. Moreover, the pair of indicators 120 can
be fixably joined to each other via the pivot shaft 1010 of the
indicator linkage 610a,b and can be configured to move in unison.
In some aspects, the pivot links 1020 can be so fixed with respect
to the pivot shaft 1010 with a weld such as, for example and
without limitation, a tack weld. In other aspects, the pivot links
1020 can be fixed with respect to the pivot shaft 1010 using a
press fit connection between the mating parts. In other aspects,
the pivot links 1020 can be so fixed with respect to the pivot
shaft 1010 using another fastening method. In some aspects, the
indicators 120 can be fixed with respect to the pivot shaft 1010
with the indicator fasteners 1090, each of which can be threaded
into a hole defined in the pivot shaft 1010. In other aspects, the
indicators 120 can be fixed with respect to the pivot shaft 1010
using a press fit connection between the mating parts or using
another fastening method. The indicator linkage 610 can, in any
case, rotate in unison about each of the assembly axes 421a,b upon
movement of the pins 690a,b (690a shown in FIG. 6, 690b shown in
FIG. 5). Each of the spacers 1050 can optionally be positioned
between the indicator 120 and the housing 310 (shown in FIG.
4).
[0089] FIGS. 11 and 12 show the pivot shaft 1010, which can be a
bottom pivot shaft, of the indicator linkage 610 (shown in FIG.
10). More specifically, FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective view and
FIG. 12 is an end or front view of the pivot shaft 1010. As shown,
the pivot shaft 1010 can comprise a main portion 1013 defining an
outside diameter D1 (shown in FIG. 12) and end portions 1015a,b
defining an outside diameter D2 (shown in FIG. 12) positioned on
opposite ends of the pivot shaft 1010. In some aspects, a flat
1017a,b--or, more broadly, an anti-rotation element encompassing
the flat 1017a,b--can be defined in opposite ends of the main
portion 1013 and in each of the respective end portions 1015a,b. In
other aspects, the pivot shaft 1010 can be cylindrical in shape
throughout its length and can define an axis 1201 (shown in FIG.
12). The pivot shaft 1010 can further define a bore 1018a,b (1018b
shown in FIG. 12) in opposite ends. Each of the bores 1018a,b can
be sized to receive one of the indicator fasteners 1090a,b and can
be threaded. The flats 1017a,b can prevent the pivot links 1020
(shown in FIG. 13) and the indicators 120 (shown in FIGS. 14A-140)
from rotating with respect to the pivot shaft 1010 and can thereby
keep the pivot links 1020 and the indicators 120 aligned with each
other for reliable and consistent indication of engagement or
non-engagement of the security mechanism 410 (shown in FIG. 6).
[0090] FIG. 13 shows a face or side view of the pivot link 1020 of
the indicator linkage 610 (shown in FIG. 10). Each of the pivot
links 1020, which can be a bottom pivot link, can define a first
end 1025 and a second end 1026. The pivot link 1020 can define an
attachment bore 1028 proximate to the first end 1025 and a slot
1029 proximate to the second end 1026. The attachment bore 1028,
which can define an inside diameter D3 and a flat 1027, which can
be angled with respect to a longitudinal centerline or axis 1021 of
the pivot link 1020. In some aspects, the pivot link 1020 can be
symmetric about the axis 1021. In other aspects, the pivot link
1020 can be non-symmetric about the axis 1021. The attachment bore
1028 can be sized to fit--with a press fit or more loosely as
desired--the middle portion 1013 (shown in FIG. 11) of the pivot
shaft 1010 (shown in FIG. 11) and the flat 1027 can be positioned
to achieve the desired orientation of the indicator 120 (shown in
FIG. 10) with respect to the housing 310 (shown in FIG. 4) and the
corresponding label 330 (shown in FIG. 3) upon assembly of the
transfer device 100 (shown in FIG. 3). More specifically, the
inside diameter D3 of the attachment bore 1028 can in some aspects
be equal to the outside diameter D1 of the pivot shaft 1010. The
slot 1029 can be sized to slideably fit the pins 690a,b (690a shown
in FIG. 6, 690b shown in FIG. 5) to facilitate rotation of the
indicator linkage 610 during disengagement and engagement of the
receivers 110a,b (shown in FIG. 1) with the transfer device 100.
The second end 1026 can further define radii R1 and R2 or be
otherwise shaped to avoid interference with surrounding parts
during use. Symmetry of the pivot link 1020 and placement of the
flat 1027 can result in each of the pivot links 1020 of the
transfer device 100 being the same and therefore
interchangeable.
[0091] FIGS. 14A and 14B show the indicator 120 of the transfer
device 100 (shown in FIG. 3). FIG. 14A is a front view of the
indicator 120 as shown in earlier figures. The indicator 120, which
in some aspects can be a pointer as shown, can comprise a mounting
hub 1410 and a first portion 1420 and a second portion 1430, each
of which can extend in opposite directions from the mounting hub
1410. Either of the first portion 1420 and the second portion 1430
can extend radially outward from the mounting hub 1410. The
indicator 120 can define a first end 1405 and a second end 1406.
The indicator 120 can define an attachment bore 1418, which can
define an inside diameter D4 and a flat 1417, which can be angled
with respect to a longitudinal centerline or axis 1401 of the
indicator 120. In some aspects, the indicator 120 can be symmetric
about the axis 1401. In other aspects, the indicator 120 can be
non-symmetric about the axis 1401. The attachment bore 1418 can be
sized to fit--with a press fit or more loosely as desired--the
corresponding end portions 1015a,b (shown in FIG. 11) of the pivot
shaft 1010 (shown in FIG. 11) and the flat 1417 can be positioned
to achieve the desired orientation of the indicator 120 with
respect to the housing 310 (shown in FIG. 3) and the corresponding
label 330 (shown in FIG. 3) upon assembly of the transfer device
100. Any of the indicator 120 or the indicators 120a,b (shown in
FIG. 3) can point in a direction angled with respect to the
horizontal. In some aspects, any of the indicator 120 or the
indicators 120a,b (shown in FIG. 3) can point upwards, i.e., above
the horizontal. In some aspects, any of the indicator 120 or the
indicators 120a,b can point downwards, i.e., below the
horizontal.
[0092] More specifically, the inside diameter D4 of the attachment
bore 1418 can in some aspects be equal to the outside diameter D2
(shown in FIG. 11) of the pivot shaft 1010. Either of the first
portion 1420 and the second portion 1430 can comprise a shaped end
1440 at an end distal from the mounting hub 1410. In some aspects,
as shown, the shaped end 1440 of the first portion 1420 can define
a round or bulbous shape defining a diameter D5, which can be
greater than a width 1424 of the first portion 1420; and a width of
the second portion 1430 can be continuous throughout except for
radiussed corners defining a radius R3 at the first end 1405. In
other aspects, the shaped end 1440 of either of the first portion
1420 and the second portion 1430 can define a non-circular shape, a
relative width or diameter of which can be other than that shown. A
thickness 1403 (shown in FIG. 10) of the indicator 120 can equal a
length or depth of the end portions 1015a,b of the pivot shaft 1010
in a longitudinal direction along the axis 1201 (shown in FIG. 12)
of the pivot shaft 1010. Symmetry of the indicator 120 and
placement of the flat 1417 can result in each of the indicators 120
of the transfer device 100 being the same and therefore
interchangeable.
[0093] FIG. 14B shows the front view of the indicator 120 of the
indicator linkage 610 of FIG. 10 in accordance with another aspect
of the current disclosure. As shown, the indicator 120 can define a
notch or notches 1408 at an intersection between the mounting hub
1410 and the first portion 1420 or elsewhere on the first portion
1420. The notches 1408, which due to a resulting reduced width of
the indicator 120 below the width 1424 (shown in FIG. 14A) can
create a weakened area, can allow the indicator 120 to bend if the
user manually pushes the indicator 120 with sufficient force. More
specifically, each indicator 120 can be configured to fail at the
weakened area upon contact with a load that would tend to damage a
connection between the indicator 120 and a remaining portion of the
transfer device 100. More specifically, each indicator 120 can be
configured to deform first at the weakened area upon contact with
such a load. The force at which the indicator 120 bends or
otherwise deforms can be set at a force less than a force
sufficient to damage any of the other components of the transfer
device including any other components of the security mechanism 410
(shown in FIG. 6), most of which are housed inside the housing of
the 310 of the transfer device 100 (shown in FIG. 3) and more
difficult to replace, at least without removing the labels 330
(shown in FIG. 3) and disassembling the transfer device 100. In
contrast, if one of the indicators 120 is damaged, it can be easily
replaced by simple removal of the indicator fastener 1090 (shown in
FIG. 10). As also shown, the radius R3 can be sufficiently
large--approaching or equaling a full radius of the second portion
1430--to minimize potential snagging of patient IV lines or other
medical equipment.
[0094] FIG. 14C shows a front view of the indicator 120 of the
indicator linkage 610 (shown in FIG. 10) of FIG. 10 in accordance
with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, a weakened
area such as, for example and without limitation, the notches 1408
can be defined in a middle of a length of the first portion 1420 of
the indicator 120. As also shown, the shaped end 1440 of the
indicator 120 can define a bore 1428, which can reveal a portion of
the label 330 (shown in FIG. 3) such as the marks 350a,b or 351a,b
to help indicate whether the security mechanism 410 (shown in FIG.
4) is or is not engaged.
[0095] FIGS. 15A-15C show a front perspective view of the transfer
device 100 together with the receiver 110a of the first support
platform 30a and the receiver 110b of the second support platform
30b and comprising a set of the indicators 120a,b in accordance
with another aspect of the current disclosure. FIG. 15A
specifically shows the transfer device 100 with the indicators
120a,b in a first indicating condition showing the receiver 110a of
the first support platform 30a lockably engaged with a first
docking cup 175a of the transfer device. As shown, each of the
indicators 120a,b can be curved and of a constant width and can be
otherwise shaped to resemble a shackle of a padlock, while a
surface of the housing 310 of the transfer device 100 or the label
330 can be marked to show a body 1510 of the "padlock," which can
be rectangular or any other recognizable padlock shape. As
reflected in a position of the "shackle" of the padlock, i.e., an
indicator such as the indicator 120a can be shown as engaged or
locked when the first end 1405 and the second end 1406 of the
indicator 120 are level and otherwise can be shown as disengaged or
unlocked such as a position of the indicator 120b as shown.
[0096] FIG. 15B shows a front perspective view and FIG. 15C shows a
side top perspective view of the transfer device 100 and the
receivers 110a,b with a portion of the housing 310 of the transfer
device 100 removed. As shown, the position, orientation, and
operation of the security levers 450a,b can be as described above,
but the indicator linkages 610a,b can be upper pivot assemblies or
linkages positioned above the security levers 450a,b instead of
below the security levers 450a,b. As shown, the pins 690a,b can
extend through a portion of the respective security levers 450a,b
that is proximate to the upper edges 708a,b of the respective
security levers 450a,b instead of proximate to the lower edges
709a,b of the security levers 450a,b as shown in FIG. 7.
[0097] FIG. 16A is a front view of the transfer device 100 together
with the receiver 110a of the first support platform 30a and the
receiver 110b of the second support platform 30b, the transfer
device 100 comprising a set of indicators 120a,b (120b shown in
FIG. 16B) in accordance with another aspect of the current
disclosure. More specifically, the set of indicators 120a,b are
shown in a first indicating condition showing the receiver 110a of
the first support platform 30a lockably engaged with the first
docking cup 175a of the transfer device 100.
[0098] FIG. 16B is a front view of the transfer device 100 and the
receivers 110a,b with the set of indicators 120a,b in a second
indicating condition showing the receiver 110b of the second
support platform 30b lockably engaged with the second docking cup
175b of the transfer device 100. In some aspects, as shown in both
FIGS. 16A and 16B, the indicator 120a,b can extend from a top end
or top surface of the housing 310 through a seam or opening, which
can be defined by an intersection between the housing halves 320a,b
(320b shown in FIG. 4). As shown, such a portion of the housing 310
can be upward facing. Each of the indicators 120a,b can be a flag
that is raised upon engagement and lowered upon disengagement of
the respective receiver 110a,b with the transfer device 100. As
with other aspects of the indicators 120a,b disclosed herein, the
indicator 120a,b, including when shown as a flag, can be colored to
indicate engagement (and safe docking) of the transfer device 100
on the respective receiver 110a,b with a color such as green, which
is commonly used to indicate safety or a safe condition. In
contrast, the indicator 120a,b, including when shown as a flag, can
be colored to indicate disengagement (and incomplete docking) of
the transfer device 100 on the respective receiver 110a,b with a
color such as red, which is commonly used to indicate caution,
danger, or an unsafe condition. In other aspects, pins (not shown)
secured to the security levers 450a,b or tips of lengthened
security levers 450a,b (shown in FIG. 4) can extend through an
opening such as a slot defined in sides of the housing 310 and by
their position outside or proximate to the exterior surface 321 of
the housing 310 can indicate engagement or disengagement of the
security levers 450a,b.
[0099] FIGS. 17A-17E show the transfer device 100 together with the
receiver 110a of the first support platform 30a and the receiver
110b of the second support platform 30b, the transfer device 100
comprising a set of indicators 120a,b in accordance with another
aspect of the current disclosure. FIG. 17A specifically shows a
front view of the transfer device 100 with the set of indicators
120a,b in a first indicating condition showing the receiver 110a of
the first support platform 30a lockably engaged with the first
docking cup 175a of the transfer device 100. As shown, each of the
receivers 110a,b can comprise a shoulder or flange 1710a,b, and
each of the indicators 120a,b can comprise a respective catch
1720a,b, which can secure or maintain engagement of the indicator
120a,b and thereby also the transfer device 100 with the respective
receiver 110a,b. As shown, each of the indicators 120a,b can extend
from a side or side facing surface of the housing 310 through a
seam or opening, which can be defined by an intersection between
the housing halves 320a,b (320b shown in FIG. 4).
[0100] FIG. 17B shows a front view of the transfer device 100 and
the receivers 110a,b with the set of indicators 120a,b in a second
indicating condition showing both of the receivers 110a,b engaged
but not lockably engaged with respective first and second docking
cups 175a,b of the transfer device 100.
[0101] FIG. 17C shows a front view of the transfer device 100 and
the receivers 110a,b with the set of indicators 120a,b in a third
indicating condition showing the receiver 110b of the second
support platform 30b lockably engaged with the second docking cup
175b of the transfer device 100 in accordance with another aspect
of the current disclosure. As shown, the indicators 120a,b can
incorporate both two colors to contrast a condition of engagement
with a condition of disengagement.
[0102] FIG. 17D shows a front perspective view of the transfer
device 100 with at least a portion of the housing 310 of the
transfer device 100 removed. The attachment portions 590a,b, which
can be attachment holes as shown, can receive ends of the biasing
members 570a,b (shown in FIG. 5).
[0103] FIG. 17E shows a front exploded perspective view of the
indicator 120 and the security lever 450 of the security mechanism
410 of the transfer device 100 of FIG. 17A. As shown, the feeler
550 need not comprise the flange 950 (shown in FIG. 9). In
addition, instead of the pin 690 being secured to the security
lever 450, the pin 690 can be secured to the indicator 120, which
here is shown as a rotating flag, and can slideably engage with a
pivot slot 1780 defined in the security lever 450. In some aspects,
the catch 1720 can be formed separately from and secured to a body
1705 of the indicator 120. In other aspects, the catch 1720 can be
formed monolithically as part of a single-piece, i.e., monolithic,
indicator 120.
[0104] FIGS. 18A-18D show the transfer device 100 together with the
receiver 110a (shown in FIG. 1) of the first support platform 30a
and the receiver 110b of the second support platform 30b in
accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure, the
transfer device 100 comprising a set of indicators 120a,b in
accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. FIG. 18A
specifically shows a top perspective view of the transfer device
100 with the set of indicators 120a,b in a first indicating
condition showing the receiver 110a of the first support platform
30a lockably engaged with the first docking cup 175a of the
transfer device. As shown, each of the indicators 120a,b can be
positioned inside the housing 310 and can be only partially visible
from outside the transfer device 100.
[0105] FIG. 18B shows a top perspective view and FIG. 18C shows a
front view of the transfer device 100 and the receivers 110a,b with
a portion of the housing 310 of the transfer device 100 removed. As
the pins 690a,b move and, as shown, rotate from one indicating
condition to another indicating condition due to movement of the
security levers 450a,b, the movement and thereby indication of
movement and engagement to the user is visible through a respective
window 1880a,b (shown in FIG. 18A) defined in the housing 310. Each
of the indicators 120a,b can be biased towards one position--for
example, in or out with respect to a center of the transfer device
100--with a biasing element (not shown). Each of the indicators
120a,b can define a mark on a surface such as a top surface. In
some aspects, as shown, the mark can be a circular mark and can
indicate engagement or disengagement of a corresponding receiver
110a,b such as the receiver 110a,b on the same side of the transfer
device 100 as the indicator 120a,b. As shown, in some aspects, the
pivot links 1020a,b can be formed monolithically with the indicator
120a,b, and each of the pivot links 1020a,b can define a unique
pivot slot 1029a,b for translating rotational movement of the pin
690a,b about one axis--here, the pivot portion 540a,b--into
rotational movement of the indicator 120 about another axis. In
some aspects, each of the windows 1880a,b can comprise a barrier
allowing visibility to the indicators 120a,b but also preventing
soiling of the indicators 120a,b due to liquids and/or other
materials entering the transfer device 100.
[0106] FIG. 18D shows a front sectional view of the transfer device
100 and the receivers 110a,b with the portion of the housing 310 of
the transfer device 100 removed and taken along line 18D-18D of
FIG. 18A. As shown, a brake mechanism 1800 can, when tightened, be
used to prevent rotation of the arm 234 and any structure supported
thereby with respect to the transfer device 100. The brake
mechanism 1800 can comprise a brake fastener 1890, which can be
fastened to the support post 296, and washers positioned
therebetween to fix a rotational position of the brake fastener
1890 with respect to the support post 296 and the transfer device
100. As shown, the brake mechanism 1800 and the support post 296
can be positioned in close proximity to and in a space between the
security levers 450a,b and the indicators 120a,b without
interfering with their operation.
[0107] Operation of each of the indicator linkages 610a,b (shown in
FIG. 18B) and the security mechanism 410 can be automatic as
disclosed herein. In some aspects, as shown, any of the indicators
120, including the indicators 120a,b, can comprise a pointer or
bar. In other aspects, any indicators 120 can comprise a flag,
which can define any geometry. In other aspects, any indicators 120
can comprise a colored surface exposed through an opening in the
housing. Any of the indicator 120 can be positioned on a face, a
side (including at or through a seam of the housing 310), a top, or
a bottom of the housing 310. In some aspects, any of the indicators
120 can positively indicate both engaged, locked, or latched and
disengaged, unlocked, or unlatched positions. In other aspects, any
of the indicators 120 can positively indicate only the engaged or
the disengaged positions but not both. Indication can be by color
(for example, red vs. green), by alignment vs. misalignment, by a
pictorial image such as that of the aforementioned padlock, or by
any other desirable means.
[0108] FIGS. 19A-19D show a perspective view of the housing 310 of
the transfer device 100 (shown in FIG. 3) in accordance with
another aspect of the current disclosure. FIG. 19A specifically
shows a perspective view of the housing 310 (shown in FIG. 3) of
the transfer device 100. As shown, two identical instances of a
housing half 320 can be configured to form the housing 310. The
housing half 320 can comprise a raised edge or flange 1910 on any
exterior edges of a first side 1701 and a pocket or recess 1920 on
any exterior edges of a second side 1702, where the first side 1701
and the second side 1702 can be separated by the axis 301. In some
aspects, as shown, either of the flange 1910 and the recess 1920
can be continuous from a first end of the respective flange 1910 or
recess 1920 to a second end of the respective flange 1910 or recess
1920. In other aspects, each of the flange 1910 and the recess 1920
can be broken or interrupted or alternate between a flange and a
recess features while optionally still presenting a coplanar seam
in the housing 310 as assembled. As shown, an exterior surface 321
and an interior surface 322 can be as described above with respect
to the exterior surfaces 321a,b and the interior surfaces
322a,b.
[0109] FIG. 19B shows a sectional view, and FIG. 19C shows a top
view of the housing 310 in close proximity to a mating housing 310
having or defining identical geometry. In contrast to the housing
half 320 in FIG. 19A presenting a coplanar seam on both sides
1701,1702 of the housing half 320, as shown in FIG. 19C the seams
on opposite sides 1701,1702 can be offset from one other and offset
from the axis 301 when the housing 310 is assembled. Also as shown,
the flange 1910 of the first housing half 320 can nest within the
recess 1920 of the second housing half 320 and vice versa. An edge
of each of the flange 1910 and the recess 1920 can be slightly
relieved to along either the entire length or at certain points
such as the transition between the first side 1701 and the second
side 1702 to facilitate smooth assembly between parts by simple
insertion of the first housing half 320 into the second housing
half 320 by translation of the first housing half 320 with respect
to the second housing half 320.
[0110] The components of the transfer system 50 (shown in FIG. 1)
and, more specifically, the transfer device 100 and any portion
thereof can be formed from any one of a variety of materials
selected based on their strength characteristics, weight, and cost.
In some aspects, it will be beneficial to select a material with
sufficient strength to avoid deformation, corrosion, or fatigue in
use. In some aspects, the housing 310 can be formed from a material
such as aluminum, which can be cast, molded, and/or machined to
produce any of the features disclosed herein. In some aspects, the
security mechanism 410 or portions thereof can be formed from a
stainless steel material such as, for example and without
limitation, grade 304 or equivalent. In other aspects, another
material can be used for any of the parts such as, for example and
without limitation, a metal other than stainless steel, a composite
material, or a polymer resin--including of the fiber-reinforced
kind. In some aspects, as shown, the security mechanism 410 (shown
in FIG. 6) or portions thereof can be formed from sheet metal
through traditional sheet metal forming processes. In other
aspects, the structure can be formed from a powder in a 3D printing
process, from pellets in a molding process, or from another raw
material form and forming process. In some aspects, components such
as the biasing members 570a,b (shown in FIG. 5) can be configured
and selected to deform, in which case a material with appropriate
characteristics such as, for example and without limitation, spring
steel can be used. In other aspects, another material can be used
for the parts configured to deform such as, for example and without
limitation, a metal other than spring steel or a rubber-like
flexible material.
[0111] FIGS. 20A-200 show front views of the transfer device 100 of
FIG. 1 together with the receiver 110a of the first support
platform 30a, the receiver 110b of the second support platform 30b,
and the patient care apparatus 60 supported by the transfer device
100 in various indicating conditions. FIG. 20A specifically shows
the transfer device 100 with the set of indicators 120a,b of the
transfer device 100 in a first indicating condition showing the
receiver 110a of the first support platform 30a lockably engaged
with the first docking cup 175a but not the second docking cup 175b
of the transfer device 100. As shown, a position of the indicator
120b over the mark 350b, which can be colored or otherwise
configured to indicate disengagement (such as with the color red),
can indicate to the user that the transfer device 100 is not
lockably engaged or latched to the receiver 110b, while a position
of the indicator 120a over the mark 351a, which can be colored or
otherwise configured to indicate engagement (such as with the color
green), can indicate to the user that the transfer device 100 is
still lockably engaged or latched to the receiver 110a.
[0112] FIG. 20B shows the transfer device 100 with the set of
indicators 120a,b in a second indicating condition showing the
receiver 110a of the first support platform 30a engaged with the
first docking cup 175a and the receiver 110b of the second support
platform 30b engaged with the second docking cup 175b of the
transfer device 100. As shown, a position of the indicator 120b
over the mark 350b and a position of the indicator 120a over the
mark 350a, each of which can be colored or otherwise configured to
indicate disengagement (such as with the color red), can indicate
to the user that the transfer device 100 is not lockably engaged or
latched to either of the receivers 110a,b.
[0113] FIG. 20C shows a front view of the transfer device 100,
receivers 110a,b, and the patient care apparatus 60 with the set of
indicators 120a,b in a third indicating condition showing the
receiver 110b of the second support platform 30b lockably engaged
with the second docking cup 175b but not the first docking cup 175a
of the transfer device 100. As shown, a position of the indicator
120a over the mark 350a, which can be colored or otherwise
configured to indicate disengagement (such as with the color red),
can indicate to the user that the transfer device 100 is not
lockably engaged or latched to the receiver 110a, while a position
of the indicator 120b over the mark 351b, which can be colored or
otherwise configured to indicate engagement (such as with the color
green), can indicate to the user that the transfer device 100 is
still lockably engaged or latched to the receiver 110b.
[0114] A method of using the transfer system 50 (shown in FIG. 1)
can comprise lockably engaging the transfer device 100 of the
transfer system 50 with one of the receivers 110a,b (shown in FIG.
1) of the transfer system 50, the transfer device comprising the
housing 310 (shown in FIG. 3) comprising the first docking cup 175a
and the second docking cup 175b, the security mechanism 410 (shown
in FIG. 6) positioned inside the housing 310, and a pair of the
indicators 120a,b, which can be coupled to the security mechanism
410 and at least partially visible from outside the housing 310.
The method can further comprise positioning a first indicator
120a,b of the pair of indicators 120a,b in a first indicating
position with respect to the housing 310, the first indicating
position indicating to a user of the transfer system 100 that the
receiver has been lockably engaged with the one of the first
docking cup 175a and the second docking cup 175b.
[0115] The method can further comprise aligning the first indicator
120a of the pair of indicators 120a,b with a first mark 350a (for
example and without limitation, as any other mark or mark position,
orientation, or design can be used) on the housing 310, the first
mark 350a indicating to the user of the transfer system 50 that the
receiver 110a of the transfer system 50 has been lockably engaged
with the one of the first docking cup 175a and the second docking
cup 175b. As shown in the aforementioned FIGS. 20A-200, lockably
engaging the transfer device 100 can comprise lockably engaging the
one of the receivers 110a,b with one of the first docking cup 175a
and the second docking cup 175b. As described above, either of the
positioning and aligning steps can be performed automatically by
the transfer device 100 upon lockable engagement of the receiver
110a,b into the one of the first docking cup 175a and the second
docking cup 175b. The method can comprise moving either of the
indicators 120a,b with a pin 690a,b secured to the security lever
450a,b of the security mechanism 410. In some aspects, as shown in
FIGS. 17A-17E, the method can comprise interfering with
disengagement of the receiver 110a,b from the corresponding one of
the first docking cup 175a and the second docking cup 175b when the
corresponding indicator 120a,b is engaged.
[0116] Before transporting a patient from a room to another
location, in reference again to FIG. 1 and FIGS. 20A-200, the first
docking cup 175a of the transfer device 100 can be docked with, and
secured to, the support platform 30a. In preparation for patient
transport, the transfer device 100 can be repositioned so that the
second docking cup 175b faces the patient bed 40, and the patient
bed 40 can be moved closer to the support platform 30a. Activation
of the lift mechanism 43 can lower the height 48 of the mattress 42
sufficiently to permit the receiver 110b of the support platform
30b to be maneuvered directly underneath, and into generally
coaxial alignment with, the second docking cup 175b of the transfer
device 100. Further activation of the lift mechanism 43 of the
patient bed 40 can raise the mattress 42 and also raise the
receiver 110b of the support platform 30b, causing it to dock with
the transfer device 100. As shown in FIG. 20B, the receiver 110a
attached to the support platform 30a and the receiver 110b attached
to the support platform 30b can be simultaneously engaged in their
respective docking cups 175a,b. Under continued activation of the
lift mechanism 43, which can cause the receiver 110b to lift the
transfer device 100 away from the receiver 110a, the security
mechanism 410 can automatically release the transfer device 100
from the receiver 110a and lock the transfer device 100 to the
receiver 110b. The automatic release and engagement of the transfer
device 100 during the transfer process can mean that the user of
the transfer system 50 need not remember, much less properly
perform, any manual latching or unlatching steps, which can
simplify user training and enhance safety.
[0117] As shown in FIG. 20C, continued activation of lift mechanism
43 lifts the transfer device 100 out of engagement with the
receiver 110a until the transfer device 100 clears the receiver
110a. As described above, various components of the transfer system
50 can form a system of pivoting linkages, which can permit
caregivers to position the patient care apparatus 60 where it is
needed for optimal patient care.
[0118] Moving the patient bed 40 away from the support platform 30a
and out of docking alignment enables the user of the transfer
system 50 to reverse the lift mechanism 43 to lower the mattress
height 48 to a desired working height. Caregivers are now free to
reposition the patient care apparatus 60 and the transfer device
100 so both nest closely to the patient bed 40 and the patient's
head as may be desired without disturbing the connections between
the patient and the patient care apparatus 60. Articulation of the
transfer device 100 by, for example and without limitation,
rotation of the arms 70 permits nursing staff to minimize a total
footprint of (i.e., a required floor space for) the support
platform 30b for efficient and safe transport, in tandem with the
patient care apparatus 60, through doorways, corridors, elevators,
and so forth.
[0119] One should note that conditional language, such as, among
others, "can," "could," "might," or "may," unless specifically
stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as
used, is generally intended to convey that certain aspects include,
while other aspects do not include, certain features, elements
and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally
intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any
way required for one or more particular aspects or that one or more
particular aspects necessarily comprise logic for deciding, with or
without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements
and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular
aspect.
[0120] It should be emphasized that the above-described aspects are
merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a
clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure.
Any process descriptions or blocks in flow diagrams should be
understood as representing modules, segments, or portions of code
which comprise one or more executable instructions for implementing
specific logical functions or steps in the process, and alternate
implementations are included in which functions may not be included
or executed at all, may be executed out of order from that shown or
discussed, including substantially concurrently or in reverse
order, depending on the functionality involved, as would be
understood by those reasonably skilled in the art of the present
disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the
above-described aspect(s) without departing substantially from the
spirit and principles of the present disclosure. Further, the scope
of the present disclosure is intended to cover any and all
combinations and sub-combinations of all elements, features, and
aspects discussed above. All such modifications and variations are
intended to be included herein within the scope of the present
disclosure, and all possible claims to individual aspects or
combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by
the present disclosure.
* * * * *