WO2002083052A1

WO2002083052A1 - Patient transfer apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2002083052A1
Application number: PCT/GB2002/001569
Authority: WO
Inventors: Edward French; George French
Original assignee: Redimove Limited
Priority date: 2001-04-10
Filing date: 2002-04-02
Publication date: 2002-10-24
Also published as: GB2391006A; GB2391006B; GB0108918D0; GB0326045D0

Abstract

The patient transfer apparatus comprises a frame (10) having a base (20). The frame comprising two elongate frame members (11, 12) coupled at one end to form a column suspension point (30) and each coupled at the other end thereof to a respective base portion (21, 22). In use, the apparatus is arranged to support a patient suspended from the suspension point (30) and is provided with a sling (41) supported by one or more straps (42). The sling (41) is arranged position to support a patient in a generally upright sitting position. The support means (40) comprises lifting means (43) to adjust the height of the sling (41). The centre of gravity of the patient in the sling (41) lies suspended below the suspension point (30). The base member (21) comprises a first rest portion (211), a second rest portion (212) and a transfer portion (213) arranged therebetween. In use, the apparatus rests in a stable position and the patient is loaded or unloaded from the sling (41) and made ready for transfer. In use, the apparatus is moved from the first rest position to the second rest position (or vice versa) to accomplish the transfer of movement. The transfer surface (213) is preferably curved such that the apparatus is unstable in this position and therefore easily moved.

Description

Patient Transfer Apparatus

Field of the Invention

The invention relates in general to the field of lifting, apparatus and in particular to an apparatus for lifting and laterally transferring a patient.

Background of the Invention

It is desired to transfer a patient from, for example, a bed to a wheelchair, or from a wheelchair to a bath or toilet. Commonly, the transfer movement is accomplished manually with the aid of one or more assistants. However, despite improvements in manual handling techniques injuries to assistants are quite common, particularly back injuries. It is known to use a lifting apparatus to aid the lifting and transfer of a patient, but known devices require a large floor area in which to operate. Generally, the known devices are difficult to operate in a domestic environment or similar. Further, the existing devices tend to move the patient in a reclined or semi- reclined position which patients may find to be uncomfortable, insecure and often undignified.

Summary of the Invention

It is an aim of the present invention to provide an apparatus for aiding the manual transfer of a patient . An aim of at least preferred embodiments of the present invention is to provide a device for aiding the manual transfer of patients that does not require a large area in which to operate and where the patient feels secure whilst being moved.

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a patient transfer apparatus comprising a frame having a suspension point for supporting a patient suspended therefrom; and a base having a profiled form for enabling lateral transfer movement of the suspension point through a substantially horizontal path parallel to the direction of transfer.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided patient transfer apparatus comprising a frame having a suspension point for suspending a patient, the frame being arranged such that the suspension point is movable along a generally linear transfer path through a volume defined by the frame.

Preferably, the frame is arranged to provide the suspension point at a height convenient for the patient to be suspended therefrom. Preferably, the centre of gravity of the patient is disposed beneath the suspension point, and ideally generally vertically below the suspension point. In a preferred arrangement the patient is supported in a suitable support means such as a harness or a sling, and the support means is arranged to be coupled to the suspension point directly or indirectly.

Preferably the support means comprises one or more straps.

Preferably a patient support sling is provided coupled to the suspension point by at least one support strap.

Preferably the length of the support strap is adjustable.

Ideally the patient support means comprises lifting means such as a manual ratchet hoist for adjusting the position of the patient with respect to the suspension point. Suitably, the lifting means allows the patient support means to be raised or lowered beneath the suspension point . Preferably the support means is arranged such that a patient is moved in an upright seated position. Preferably the support means allows for the patient to be rotated around a generally vertical axis. Preferably the support means comprises rotation means for enabling rotation of the patient around a generally vertical axis.

Any suitable shape of frame may be employed. In one preferred embodiment the frame is substantially A-shaped comprising two elongate frame members, or frame structures, extending divergently from a common upper point. Preferably the frame is substantially A-shaped as viewed along the main direction of transfer of a patient. Preferably, the suspension point is located at or near the common upper point. Preferably, the frame members extend downwardly and outwardly from the suspension point, and preferably extend outwardly perpendicular to the direction of transfer movement .

In another preferred embodiment the frame is generally C-shaped, when viewed from along the main patient transfer direction, having an elongate frame member or frame structure arranged generally perpendicular to one, two or more shorter frame members. The suspension point is preferably arranged along one of the shorter frame members, suitably at or near one point of the C, such that the elongate frame member is disposed laterally displaced to one side of the transfer movement. In yet another embodiment the frame is generally L-shaped, having the suspension point arranged on the shorter frame member. Advantageously, the frame is arranged such that the patient is suspended within the environs of the frame, aiding a feeling of stability . and security during the transfer movement. If desired, the patient may steady themselves by holding, onto a portion of the frame. Preferably, the patient is transferred through a volume defined by the frame. Preferably, the swept volume of the patient during the. transfer movement is substantially within the floor area defined by the frame. Where the frame is, for example, generally A-shaped the patient moves through the central aperture defined by the frame.

Preferably, the patient transfer apparatus is provided with a base shaped to enable lateral transfer movement of the suspension point. Ideally the base is directly connected to the frame or formed integral therewith. Any suitable base arrangement may be used to provide the desired lateral movement of the suspension point. Preferably, the base comprises a movement surface arranged to rest in contact with a support surface. Suitably the support surface is a floor or ground level, but may be another part of the apparatus, such as a lower base member. The movement surface is preferably provided with at least one rest portion and at least one transfer portion. The rest portion is preferably . shaped, ideally being substantially planar, such that the apparatus rests in a stable position when the rest surface contacts the support surface. Preferably, first and second rest portions are provided either side of a central transfer surface, such that the apparatus is provided with two stable rest positions. Preferably, the base is shaped such that either the first or the second, rest surface contacts the support surface. Transfer between the first and second rest positions is achieved via the transfer surface. Preferably the transfer surface is curved, ideally being smoothly rounded, suitably forming a section of a cylinder having a longitudinal axis disposed perpendicular to the direction of transfer movement.

In another preferred embodiment, movement, of the suspension point through a suitable path is achieved by means of a series of links and pivots.

The patient transfer apparatus. is suitably operated by a single assistant providing lateral transfer force, for example by pushing or pulling laterally on the frame member. Advantageously, the assistant may use their own body weight to aid lateral movement of the . transfer apparatus .

Brief. Description of the Drawings

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how embodiments of the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first preferred patient transfer apparatus;

Figure 2 is a front view of the apparatus of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 1; Figure 4 is a diagrammatic illustration of the apparatus in use;

Figure 5 is a side view showing . one preferred embodiment of a base portion of the apparatus;

Figure 6 is a diagrammatic illustration of a second embodiment of the apparatus in use; and

Figures 7-9 show a third preferred embodiment of the apparatus moving between expanded and collapsed positions.

Description of the Preferred Embodiments

Referring to Figure 1, the preferred patient transfer apparatus comprises a frame 10 having a base 20. The frame 10 suitably comprises two elongate frame members 11 and 12 coupled at one end to form a common suspension point 30, and each coupled at the other end thereof to a respective base portion 21 and 22. Ideally, each of the elongate frame members 11, 12 is collapsible to facilitate easy transport and storage of the apparatus. For example, each elongate frame member 11, 12 may be telescopic. However, in the preferred embodiment each elongate frame member 11, 12 is provided with a knee joint 13, suitably about half way along its length. The knee joint allows one half of the frame member to fold against the other half to form a collapsed position. The knee joint preferably comprises an offset hinge such that the frame member is arranged to remain in the open, expanded position under load. Each base portion 21, 22 suitably comprises an elongate base member coupled to one end of the corresponding frame member 11, 12. The base members may be removable and/or collapsible to further facilitate convenient transport and storage of the apparatus . Alternatively, the base members may be permanently connected to the frame members 11, 12. Bracing spars 23 may be provided between the base members 21, 22 and the frame members 11, 12.

Referring now to Figures 2 and 3 , in use the apparatus is arranged to support a patient suspended from the suspension point 30. The suspension point 30 may be take any suitable form, but conveniently comprises one or more hooks or eyes. The suspension point 30 is suitable for supporting a patient in a patient support arrangement, which in the illustrated example comprises a sling 41 supported by one or more straps 42. Suitably, the straps 42 are arranged in use to be held securely by the hooks or other suitable portions of the suspension point 30. The preferred sling 41 is arranged to support a patient in a generally upright sitting position. It has been found that the sitting position is preferred by most patients, being comfortable and giving a reassuring feeling of stability during transfer. However, any other suitable position may be used as required.

Preferably, the patient support means 40 comprises a lifting- means 43 used to adjust the height of the sling 41. Ideally, the lifting means 43 is used to take up slack once the patient is comfortably arranged in the sling 41, to lift the patient slightly prior to transfer, and to lower the patient to a final rest position after transfer. Suitably, the lifting means 43 is a manually operated hoist, for simplicity and light weight, although an electrically operated hoist may be used if desired.

In the preferred . embodiment the centre of gravity of the patient in the sling 41 in use lies suspended below the suspension point 30, suitably generally vertically below the suspension point 30. The weight of the patient acting on the suspension point 30 is supported through the elongate frame members 11, 12 and through the base members 21 and 22 to a suitable support surface such as ground level G.

Referring to. Figure 3, one of the base members 21 will now be described in more detail . The other base member 22 corresponds . .

The base member 21 suitably comprises a first rest portion 211, a second rest portion 212, and a transfer portion 213 arranged therebetween. Suitably, the rest portions and the transfer portion together, form a continuous movement surface, although separate sections may be employed if desired. In use, the apparatus rests in a stable position with either the first rest surface 211 or the second rest . surface 212 in contact with the ground support surface G. In one of the rest positions the patient may be loaded or unloaded from the sling 41 and made ready for transfer. In use, the apparatus is moved from the first rest position to the second rest position (or vice, versa) to accomplish the transfer movement. As shown in Figure 3 the first and second rest surfaces 211, 212 are preferably substantially planar surfaces. Figure 3 shows the apparatus in use at a position between the first, and second rests positions, wherein the transfer portion 213 contacts the ground support surface G. The transfer surface 213 is preferably curved such that the apparatus is unstable in this position and therefore easily moved. That is, the apparatus rocks easily when supported on the transfer surface 213, until it pivots sufficiently to rest in a stable position on one of the rest surfaces 211 or 212. Movement between the two rest positions is accomplished ideally by an operator providing lateral, force, for example by pulling on one or both of the frame members 11 or 12 and suitable handles or grips may be provided for this purpose. Conveniently, the operator may employ their own body weight to aid this movement. Further, the patient may, if sufficiently able, move . themselves . '

Figure 4 shows a sequence of three positions in an example of movement of the apparatus. In Figure 4a the apparatus is in a first rest position with the first' rest surface 211 in contact with a supporting surface which in this example is a ground surface G. Figure 4b shows the apparatus in an unstable transfer position supported on the transfer surface 213. Figure 4c shows the apparatus in a second rest position with.the second rest surface 212 in contact with the ground G. Initially, in the first rest position the patient P is supported below the suspension point 30 to the left in the diagram. During transfer the patient P rises slightly, in this embodiment in a long gentle arc, according to the profile of. the transfer surface 213. Finally, the patient is delivered to the second stable rest position to the right of the diagram, giving the desired lateral transfer movement. As shown in Figure 4, the centre of gravity of the patient remains generally within the footprint of the patient transfer apparatus giving good stability. The patient moves in a transfer direction generally perpendicular to the main structure of the apparatus, travelling through a volume of space generally within the volume defined by the transfer apparatus, again leading to good stability and a feeling of security since the patient is always relatively near to and can see or if desired hold on to parts of the apparatus.

Referring to. Figure 5, an expanded view of one of the base portions 21, 22 is shown. In this embodiment one or both ends of the base portion 21 is provided with a pivoting toe portion 24. The pivoting toe portion 24 is arranged to pivot under the force of gravity in order to reduce the total height h required by the base during movement of the apparatus. In particular, the pivoting toe allows the base portion to fit under a relatively low piece of furniture such as a bed or chair. In practical embodiments the operating range of movement h is of the • order of 1.0-15 cms.

Figure 6 shows a second preferred embodiment of the patient transfer apparatus where the frame 10 is pivotally coupled to a stationary base 20. The frame 10 comprises a plurality of pivots and links such that the patient P suspended from a suspension point 30 located in an upper region of the frame 10 is moved in a generally horizontal path over a predetermined transfer distance.

Referring to Figures 7 to 9 , a third preferred embodiment of the patient transfer apparatus will now be described. Generally, the apparatus is of similar construction to the first preferred embodiment and reference numerals refer to generally corresponding parts. The frame 10 includes two frame portions coupled at a common suspension point 30 and each ending in a respective base 20. Figure 7 shows one of the frame portions 11 in side view, comprising linked elongate frame members lla-lld. Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the frame portion 11 forms a stable parallelogram in use, but is readily collapsed following the arrows shown in Figure 8 to the position in Figure 9. The other side 12 (not shown in Figures 7-9) corresponds, and preferably the frame portions 11,12 are hinged at the suspension . point 30 such that the apparatus may be compactly arranged with the two bases 20 close adjacent one another.

Advantageously, the preferred patient transfer apparatus is lightweight, robust, collapsible for convenient transport and storage, and is quick and easy to erect. For example, the apparatus may be carried in a vehicle such as in the boot of a car and used by an assistant visiting patients such as in their own homes. The apparatus requires minimal space to operate and can be employed in an emergency situation, such as where a patient has fallen and needs to be recovered to bed or a wheel chair. The apparatus avoids the need for permanent adaptation of the patient's surroundings, unlike some prior art methods which require a hoist track to be fitted to the ceiling. Manual work by the assistant is minimised, and in particular lifting by the assistant is avoided thereby minimising risk of injury. The patient feels safe and secure during transfer and may steady themselves by . holding on to the frame of the apparatus . This contrasts with some other known arrangements which leave the patient suspended in free space. The suspension point is stably supported at positions useful to transport of the patient notably at the start and end of the transfer movement .

The apparatus has been described with particular reference to the transfer of a human patient, but use by an animal patient is also envisaged. The apparatus is suitable for use with a wide variety of loads.

The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) , and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, ma be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including ^■ any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) , may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features. The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment (s) . The invention extend to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) , or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. Patient transfer apparatus comprising a frame having a suspension point for supporting a patient suspended therefrom; and a base having a profiled form for enabling lateral transfer movement of the suspension point through a substantially horizontal path parallel to the direction of transfer.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1 in which the frame is arranged to provide the suspension point at a height convenient for the patient to be suspended therefrom.

3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2 in which the centre of gravity of the patient is disposed beneath the suspension point.

4. Apparatus according to claim 3 in which the centre of gravity of the patient is disposed generally vertically below the suspension point.

5. Apparatus according to any preceding claim in which the patient is supported in a suitable support means.

6. Apparatus according to claim 5 in which the support means is arranged to be coupled to the suspension point directly.

7. Apparatus according to claim 5 or claim 6 in which a patient support sling is provided coupled to the suspension point by at least one support strap.

8. Apparatus according to claim 7 in which the length of the support strap is adjustable.

9. Apparatus according to any preceding claim in which the patient support means comprises lifting means^' for adjusting the position of the patient with respect to the suspension point.

10.. Apparatus according to claim 9 in which the lifting means allows the patient support means to be raised or lowered beneath the suspension point .

11. Apparatus according to any preceding claim in which the support means is arranged such that a patient is moved in an upright seated position.

12. Apparatus according to any preceding claim in which the support means allows for the patient to be rotated around a generally vertical axis.

13. Apparatus according to any preceding claim in which the support means comprises rotation means for enabling rotation of the patient around a generally vertical axis.

14. Apparatus according to any preceding claim in which the frame is substantially A-shaped comprising two elongate frame members extending divergently from a common upper point.

15. Apparatus according to claim 14 in which the frame members extend downwardly and outwardly from the suspension point and extend outwardly perpendicular to the direction of transfer movement.

16. Apparatus according to any preceding claim in which the frame is generally C-shaped, when viewed from along the main patient transfer direction, having an elongate

5. frame member or frame structure arranged generally perpendicular to one, two or more shorter frame members.

17. Apparatus according to any preceding claim in which the frame is generally L-shaped, having the suspension 0 point arranged on the shorter frame member.

18. Apparatus according to any preceding claim in which the frame is arranged such that the patient is suspended within the environs of the frame during the transfer 5 movement .

19. Apparatus according to any preceding claim in which the patient is transferred through a volume defined by the frame . 0

20. Apparatus according to claim 19 in which the swept volume of the patient during the transfer movement is substantially within the floor area defined by the frame.

5 21. Apparatus according to any preceding claim- in which the patient transfer apparatus is provided with a base shaped to enable lateral .transfer, movement of the suspension point.

0 -22. Apparatus according to claim 21 in which the base is directly connected to the frame.

23. Apparatus according to claim 21 or claim 22 in which the base comprises a movement surface arranged to rest in contact with a support surface.

24. Apparatus according to claim 23 in which the support surface is a floor or ground level.

25. Apparatus according to claim 23 or claim 24 in which the movement surface is provided with at least one rest portion and at least one transfer portion.

26. Apparatus according to claim 25 in which, the rest portion is shaped such that the apparatus rests in a stable position when the rest surface contacts the support surface.

27. Apparatus according to. any preceding claim in which transfer between a first and a second rest position is achieved via the transfer surface.

28. Apparatus according, to claim 27 in which the transfer surface is curved suitably forming a section of a cylinder having a longitudinal axis disposed perpendicular to the direction of transfer movement.

29. Apparatus according to any preceding claim in which movement of the suspension point through a suitable path is achieved by means of a series of links and pivots.

30. Apparatus according to any preceding claim in which the patient transfer apparatus is operated by a single assistant providing lateral transfer force.

31 . Apparatus according to claim 30 in which the assistant uses their own body weight to aid lateral movement of the transfer apparatus .

32 . Patient transfer apparatus substantially as herein described, with reference to, and as shown in, any of the accompanying drawings .