System and method for transferring patients

(Related application) This application claims the benefit of 35 USC provisional patent application No. 61 / 624,527 filed on 16 April 2012 under 35 USC §119 (e) and is also filed on 25 September 2012. Claim priority over US application 13 / 626,457. The above application is incorporated herein by reference.

(Technical field) The various embodiments described herein relate to methods and systems for transporting objects such as patients within a hospital or operating room.

(background) Many patients are moved in the daily work of the hospital. In many cases, the patient is walkable and can be moved from the hospital bed to a wheelchair and then again. Many patients are not walkable. These patients must also be relocated with the help of nursing and medical staff. Patients who are unable to walk are moved from the hospital bed to a wheeled stretcher whenever they need to be moved to a new location. Once relocated to a new location, the patient is relocated into a new room or other environment. When a patient undergoes surgery, even walkable patients are generally unable to walk due to the effects of anesthesia. In general, anesthesia is not cut off immediately after surgery is completed. Patients are generally moved from the operating table in the operating room to the bed in the recovery room. In the recovery room, the patient is observed until "wakes up" after the anesthesia is cut off. In the recovery room, nurses can also monitor many patients if something goes wrong immediately after surgery. Once the patient wakes up or is fully recovered, the patient is then relocated to the hospital room. Most patients are unable to walk due to surgery. As a result, nursing and medical staff must move the patient onto a wheeled stretcher to return to the recovery room. In general, the patient stays on a wheeled stretcher while in the recovery room. Upon recovery, the patient is then moved to the hospital room on a wheeled stretcher. Once in the hospital room, the patient is moved from the wheeled stretcher to the hospital bed by medical or nursing staff.

The most common device used to move a patient is shown in Figure 1. The transport device 100 includes several elongated rollers 110 covered by a mesh cloth or vinyl 130. A piece of material, called the "chuck" 150, is wrapped around the device 100. The patient is rolled from the supine position to the lateral decubitus position (so-called "log rolling"), when the device is with the patient and the surface or other surface of the bed or wheeled stretcher on which the patient is lying. Pushed in between. The patient is then rolled over the device and the cloth chuck 150 covering the device 100 from the lateral decubitus position to the supine position. The patient is rolled onto the device 100 with the help of nursing or medical staff. At this point, the patient is generally only partially on device 100. Medical or nursing staff may need to push and / or pull the patient across the device to achieve a transfer across the surface 100. Once on top of the transport device 100, the patient must traverse the device 100 and be pushed and / or pulled over it. As the patient is transported to the next surface, the patient rolls onto the transport device 100 and individual rollers.

Current devices have many problems. Riding on the patient is uncomfortable because the dorsal aspect of the patient does not move smoothly across the belt surface due to the open space between the rollers located under the belt. This swaying ride puts stress on the patient being transported. For example, a patient who has just completed surgery is still monitored many times during transport into the recovery room. Monitoring information obtained during transport, such as heart rate, ECG (electrocardiogram), blood pressure, and respiratory rate, indicates that the patient is under stress. Another issue concerns hospital staff, such as nursing staff or medical staff. When moving the patient, the staff must bend forward towards the two surfaces, push and / or pull the patient. The method is inherently inefficient due to the recognized physics principle, namely friction. This can lead to various injuries and consequent worker claims. Also, for patients of significant size and / or weight, additional hospital staff is required for the physical task of moving the patient from one surface to another using existing transport devices. To. These injuries and labor issues can dramatically increase the cost of running a hospital. Each time the patient is moved, a new chuck needs to be wrapped around the transport device. Chucking transport devices is routine for technological advances within the medical industry. These are, of course, only some of the issues associated with the transport device 100.

<p num="0006"> The patient transport system 300 includes a housing 310 that is sized to span the distance between the first surface 301 and the second surface 302. The housing 310 is also made strong enough to be strong enough not to fail over that distance. The patient transport system 300 is located on a first elongated roller 320 positioned along a first edge or first side cap 311 of the housing 310 and on a second edge or second side cap 312 of the housing 310. Includes a second elongated roller 322 positioned along. The patient transport system also includes a support system 400 (most commonly seen in Figures 3 and 5). The support system 400 includes a set of individual supports 412, 414, 416 (most commonly seen in Figures 5 and 6). The individual supports 412, 414, 416 are attached to the end caps 316, 318 of the housing 310. For example, the individual support 412 is attached to the housing end cap 316 at point 422 and to the housing end cap 318 at attachment point 423, and the individual support 414 is attached to the housing end cap 316 at point 424. , And the individual support 416 is attached to the housing end cap 316 at the attachment point 425 and to the housing end cap 318 at the attachment point 427. The upper bridge cover 421 is attached to the individual supports 412, 414, 416 to form the bridge 420. The bridge 420 can also have a bottom bridge cover 621 (shown in FIG. 6). The bridge covers 421 and 621 are made of a substantially rigid material such as a low friction polymer or carbon fiber, plastic, metal or metal composite fiber material. The upper bridge cover 421 bends only a limited amount during the transport of objects such as patients, but is much more rigid than the belt material. The bridge 420 supports the object as it is transported using the patient transport system 300. When the object is the patient, the patient is supported so that the skin or integumentary system moves less wavy than when the prior art device 100 is used. This It reduces the stress exerted on the patient when moved using the patient transport system 300 when compared to the prior art device 100. In one embodiment, the bridge 420 has a first portion that is substantially the same height as the first elongated roller 320, and a second portion that is substantially the same height as the second elongated roller 322. Form a support surface with portions.</p><p num="0007"> The patient transport system 300 also includes a continuous belt 330. The continuous belt 330 is positioned in a transport relationship with respect to the first roller 320 and the second roller 322, and with respect to the bridge 420. The first roller 320, the second roller 322, the main parts of the supports 412, 414, 416, and the main parts of the bridge 420 are located within the continuous belt 330. A portion of the continuous belt 330 carries an object (not shown), while continuous Another part of the belt 330 passes through the housing 310. The housing 310 includes a bottom 314. The bottom 314 includes a first main surface adjacent to the first surface 301 and the second surface 302, and includes a second main surface inside the housing. The continuous belt 330 does not touch the first surface 301 or the second surface 302. The continuous belt 330 passes through the second main surface. In other words, the continuous belt passes through the top of the second main surface inside the housing 310. The elongated rollers 320, 322 are located substantially within the housing 310, above the second main surface of the bottom 314 of the housing 310. In another embodiment, the surface of the bridge 420 of the support system 400 is approximately flush with one of the first and second ends of the housing. As the continuous belt is moved to transfer the object, the continuous belt passes through the support structure, specifically the support surface. The support surface, in some embodiments, comprises a material that reduces the friction generated between the support surface and the belt. The present specification also provides, for example, the following items. (Item 1) A system for transferring an object from a first surface to a second surface. A housing sized to extend the distance between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the housing includes a first end and a second end. With the body With a first elongated roller positioned along the first edge of the housing, With a second elongated roller positioned along the second edge of the housing, A continuous belt positioned in a transport relationship with respect to the first roller and the second roller, wherein a part of the continuous belt carries an object, while another part of the continuous belt holds the housing. With a continuous belt that passes, A support structure having at least a portion positioned within the continuous belt and connected to a first end and a second end of the housing, wherein the object is transferred. With a support structure that supports the object when The system. (Item 2) The system of item 1, wherein the support structure comprises a support surface having a first portion that is substantially flush with the first elongated roller. (Item 3) The system of item 2, wherein the support structure comprises a support surface having a second portion that is substantially flush with the second elongated roller. (Item 4) The support structure includes a support surface, the continuous belt passes through the support surface as the continuous belt is moved to transfer an object, and the support surface is between the support surface and the belt. The system according to item 1, which is made of a material that reduces friction. (Item 5) The support structure includes a support surface, the continuous belt passes through the support surface as the continuous belt is moved to transfer an object, and the continuous belt is formed of an elastomeric material, item 1. The system described in. (Item 6) The first edge of the housing includes a transition region between the lower portion of the housing and the support surface. The second edge of the housing includes a transition region between the lower portion of the housing and the support surface. , The system described in item 1. (Item 7) The first edge of the housing includes a transition region between the lower portion of the housing and the support surface. The second edge of the housing includes a transition region between the lower portion of the housing and the support surface. , The system described in item 1. (Item 8) Further comprising a drive system coupled to at least one of the first elongated roller or the second elongated roller in a drive relationship, the drive system is one of the first or second rollers. , And the system of item 1, driving the continuous belt associated with the first or second roller. (Item 9) 8. The system of item 8, further comprising a control system operably coupled to said drive system. (Item 10) A control system operably connected to the drive system and The first sensor for detecting the object and With a second sensor for detecting the object With more The first and second sensors are operably linked to the control system, which enables and disables the drive system, based on the sensed position of the object being transported, item 8. Described system. (Item 11) The system of item 1, further comprising a disposable chuck, which can be removably attached to said continuous belt of said system for transferring an object. (Item 12) A method for transferring an object from a first surface to a second surface. To provide a transfer device that includes at least two rollers and a continuous belt, The disposable chuck is removably adhered to the continuous belt, and the chuck is removably attached at a position on the belt close to the object. Rolling the object in the first direction, Placing the transfer device and chuck near the object and Rolling the object in a second direction so that at least a portion of the object is rolled onto the chuck and belt. Using the transfer device to transfer the object to the second surface, To remove the disposable chuck from the continuous belt Including methods. (Item 13) The method for transferring an object according to item 12, wherein transferring the object using the transfer device comprises driving the continuous belt using a drive mechanism. (Item 14) Transferring the object using the transfer device further Sensing an object in the first position and In response to sensing the object at the first position, the drive mechanism is used to drive the continuous belt. Sensing an object in the second position and Disabling the drive mechanism when the object is no longer sensed at the second position A method for transporting an object according to item 12, including. (Item 15) Transferring the object using the transfer device further Sensing an object in the first position and In response to sensing the object at the first position, the drive mechanism is used to drive the continuous belt. Disabling the drive mechanism after the object has passed the second position A method for transporting an object according to item 12, including. (Item 16) A chuck for use with a patient transfer device, the chuck comprising a continuous belt for transporting the patient from the first surface to the second surface. With a sheet of material that is virtually sterile, At least one piece of adhesive adapted for removable attachment to the continuous belt. The at least one piece of adhesive is with at least one piece of adhesive attached along the first edge of the sheet. With a chuck. (Item 17) Item 16. The chuck according to item 16, further comprising at least one other area containing a removable adhesive. (Item 18) The chuck according to item 16, further comprising a reinforcing sheet made of a material that reinforces the chuck material. (Item 19) A computer operating system that operates a computer in a control system associated with a patient transfer system, said computer operating system performing a computerized method. Detecting an object in the first position with respect to the continuous belt of the patient transfer system, Allowing the drive system to drive the continuous belt away from the first position and To detect the patient in the second position and Disabling the drive system, which drives the conveyor belt in the direction away from the first position, in response to the object being no longer detected in the second position. Computer operating system, including. (Item 20) The computerized method further Detecting that the patient transfer system is not horizontal and To detect that the patient transfer system is substantially horizontal The computer operating system described in item 19, including. (Item 21) A machine-readable medium that provides instructions to the machine when the instructions are executed by the machine. Detecting an object in the first position with respect to the continuous belt of the patient transfer system, Allowing the drive system to drive the continuous belt away from the first position and To detect the patient in the second position and In response to the object being no longer detected at the second position, an operation is performed that drives the conveyor belt away from the first position in the direction, including disabling the drive system. A machine-readable medium.</p>

<figref num="1">FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art patient transport device.</figref><figref num="2">FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a prior art patient transport device with a chuck wrapped around the prior art patient transport device.</figref><figref num="3">FIG. 3 is a top view of a beltless patient transport system as used to move a patient or object from a first surface to a second surface, according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="4">FIG. 4 is a top view of a patient transport system, such as that used to move a patient or object from a first surface with a continuous belt to a second surface, according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="5">FIG. 5 is a top view of a patient transport system with the continuous belt and part of the support system removed, according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="6">FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a patient transport system according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="7">FIG. 7 shows a partially cut perspective view of a disposable chuck according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="8">FIG. 8 shows a bottom view of the disposable chuck according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="9">FIG. 9 shows rolls of wall-mounted brackets and chucks according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="10">FIG. 10 is an end view of a wall-mounted bracket for a patient transport device and a roll of chucks according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="11">FIG. 11 shows a flow diagram of a method for operating a patient transport device and chuck according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="12">FIG. 12 shows a complementary sheet 1200 that can be used to add strength to the chuck 700 during patient transfer, according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="13">FIG. 13 shows a schematic diagram of a transport device with a drive system according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="14">FIG. 14 is a schematic representation of a control system that acts in response to a set of sensors associated with a transport device 1200, according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="15">FIG. 15 is a flow diagram of a method for controlling the movement of the belt and for driving the belt according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="16">FIG. 16 is a schematic representation of a computer device for a machine in an exemplary electronic form of a computer system, within which a set of instructions for causing the machine to perform the methods discussed above, according to an exemplary embodiment. Is shown.</figref><figref num="17">FIG. 17 shows another embodiment of a wall-mounted bracket 1700 for a patient transport device, and a roll of chucks, according to an exemplary embodiment.</figref><figref num="18A">FIG. 18A shows a perspective exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of the patient transport device.</figref><figref num="18B">FIG. 18B shows an end view of another exemplary embodiment of the patient transport device.</figref><figref num="18C">FIG. 18C shows a top view of another exemplary embodiment of the patient transport device.</figref><figref num="19">FIG. 19 shows a bottom view of a disposable chuck according to another exemplary embodiment.</figref>

(Detailed explanation) FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art patient transport device 100. The prior art patient transport device 100 includes several parallel, spaced elongated rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 that are separated from each other. The frame member 120 and the frame member 122 hold the rollers apart from each other. The frame members 120, 122 are attached to the ends of the rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117. Each end of the rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 is rotatably attached to the frame members 120, 122. The frame members 120, 122 are joined together to form a substantially rigid frame. The rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 are covered by the continuous belt 130. The continuous belt 130 is sized to cover and tightly fit the rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117. Note that there are spaces 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146 between the rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117. There are virtually no supports in spaces 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146. The continuous band 130 of the prior art is generally flexible. When supporting an object in the space 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146 between rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, the continuous band 130 bends or bends. .. When the object is small, the space 141, 142, 143 between the high position on the rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 and the rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117. , 144, 145, 146, etc. to and from the lower position in the space. When a large flexible object is transported using a transport device, the flexible outer surface of the object will travel between these positions.

In some cases, humans are transported using the transport device 100. Humans have an integumentary system. The integumentary system is an organ system that protects the body from injury and includes the skin and its appendages, including hair, scales, feathers, and nails. The integumentary system has various functions such as being waterproof, cushioning impact, protecting deep tissues, discharging waste products, and controlling temperature. The integumentary system is also the site of attachment for sensory receptors to detect pain, sensation, pressure, and temperature. In humans, the integumentary system is the largest organ system.

When a human being is a moving object, the first part of the integumentary system is supported by elongated rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, while the adjacent parts of the integumentary system are The space between the rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 extends over 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146 and is supported in the lower position by the belt 130. This is due to the flexibility of the skin in its function of cushioning the impact of organs in the body. When a human is transported on device 100, the skin or integumentary system moves in a wavy manner. This puts stress on the body. Stress occurs both when humans are conscious and unconscious. The body is carefully monitored during surgery. Surveillance continues after surgery. For some medical or surgical procedures, some patients require monitoring during transfer from the surgical surface to the transport surface. Other patients are also monitored as they improve in the recovery room after surgery. Monitoring information such as heart rate, ECG (ECG), blood pressure, and respiratory rate indicates that the patient is stressed during transport.

In addition to creating stress, the transport device 100 also translates as the patient is moved. In other words, elongated rollers 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 roll along the continuous belt 130, and in turn, the continuous belt 130 rolls over the surface on which the patient is being transported. Ru. Such an arrangement can result in high local loading on the rollers and may require more force to move the patient.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a prior art patient transport device 100 with a chuck 150 wrapped around the patient transport device 100. During operation, a clean cloth called chuck 150 is wrapped around the patient transport device 100. The edges of the chuck 152 are generally collected by a worker on one side of the human. The chuck 150 is then pulled along the edge. Humans can be pushed to help other workers move or transfer the patient from one surface to the other. Pushing humans increases stress. Workers generally have to bend forward, push and pull, which also causes stress on the worker that can lead to injury. At the end of this use, the chuck 150 is placed in the laundry room, washed and reused.

FIG. 3 is a top view of a patient transport system 300, such as that used to move a patient or object from a first surface 301 to a second surface 302, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 4 is a top view of a patient transport system 300, such as that used to move a patient or object from a first surface to a second surface using a continuous belt, according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 5 is used to move a patient or object from the first surface 301 to the second surface 302, with both the continuous belt 330 and a portion of the support system 400 removed, according to an exemplary embodiment. It is a top view of the patient transportation system 300. Specifically, the end cap and side cap of the housing have been removed from FIG. The bridge cover material has also been removed from Figure 5. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the patient transport system along line 5-5 of FIG. 3 according to an exemplary embodiment. The patient transport system 300 will be further described here with reference to FIG. 3-6.

Looking now at FIG. 6, in some exemplary embodiments, the support structure 400 of the patient transport system 300 also includes a bottom cover 621 attached to supports 412, 414, 416. The cover 621 is also positioned within the housing 310. The cover 621 acts to guide the continuous belt 330. Cover 621 also prevents continuous belts from catching supports 412, 414, 416. The support system 400 includes a bridge 420, which can be thought of as a frame covered by a bridge cover 421 and a bridge cover 621. In another embodiment, the support system can be made of solid material. In yet another embodiment, the number of supports forming the frame can be varied. In addition, different types of materials can be used for bridge cover 421 and bridge cover 621. The bridge cover 421 is on one side of the supports 412, 414, 416 and the bridge cover 621 is on the other side of the supports 412, 414, 416.

In one exemplary embodiment, the continuous belt 330 is made of an elastomeric material to cushion the impact of the transferred object. The continuous belt 330 must be thin enough to fit between the space between the roller 320 and the edge 311 and the space between the roller 322 and the edge 312 of the housing 310. The thickness of the belt 330 shall allow the belt to bend. In other words, the belt material 330 must be flexible enough to wrap around most of the rollers 320, 322 and the support system 400. If the object is a human, the elastomeric material of the continuous belt 330 cushions the patient during transfer. In another embodiment, a thinner cloth-like material is used in the continuous belt 330. Note that any kind of material can be used that is flexible enough and thin enough to fit between the rollers and the edges of the housing.

The continuous belt 330, when made of an elastomeric material, fits the object to some extent during transport. When the object to be transferred is a human or animal, the suitability of the belt provides the animal or human with some comfort. The continuous belt must be thin enough to remain separated from the housing during the operation of the continuous belt. The continuous belt must also be thin enough to allow the use of the chuck. If the continuous belt is too thin, the belt can be captured, for example, in the housing. If the continuous belt is too thick, it allows the continuous belt to be used, but can prevent the device from operating when the chuck is used. In one embodiment, the first and second elongated rollers 320, 322 are inward with respect to the first edge or side edge cap 311 and the second edge or side edge cap 312 of the housing 310, respectively. Positioned.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3-6, the first edge or side edge cap 311 of the housing 310 includes a transition region 611 between the lower portion of the housing 310 and the supporting surface or the surface of the bridge 420. .. The second edge or side edge cap 312 of the housing 310 also includes a transition area 612 between the lower portion of the housing 310 and the supporting surface or the surface of the bridge 420. The transition region can be made in any number of shapes. As is most often seen in FIG. 6, the first transition region 611 and the second transition region 612 have a triangular cross-sectional shape. The triangular shape allows the housing 310 of the system 300 to be placed near an object and slightly wedged into space. The less tilt between the edge or end caps 311, 312 of the housing 310 and the bottom of the housing 314, the gentler the transition areas 611, 612. Transition areas 611, 612 are generally longer, with a gentler slope. The transport device 300 will be wider with a transition area with a gentler slope. The width of the transport device 300 is one consideration in the design of the device. Other design considerations can be human comfort when the human is an object, or the bulkiness of the device 300 when handled by hospital personnel in the operating room or around the hospital.

FIG. 18A shows a perspective exploded view of another exemplary embodiment of the patient transport device 1800. FIG. 18B shows an end view of another exemplary embodiment of the patient transport device 1800. FIG. 18C shows a top view of another exemplary embodiment of the patient transport device 1800. The patient transport device 1800 is further detailed here with reference to all of FIGS. 18A, 18B and 18C. The patient transport system 1800 includes a housing 1810 that is sized to span the distance between the first surface and the second surface. The housing 1810 includes a first elongated frame member or side cap 1811, a second elongated frame member or side cap 1812, a first end cap 1813, and a second end cap 1814. The end caps 1813, 1814 adhere to the first and second elongated frame members or side caps 1811, 1812 to form the housing 1810. The housing 1810 is made strong enough to be strong enough not to fail over a distance somewhat shorter than the length of the end caps 1813, 1814. The housing 1810 holds the bridge 1840, which is made of a material strong enough to hold the patient. The bridge 1840 includes an upper bridge cover 1842 and a bottom bridge cover 1844. A plurality of truss members are located between the top bridge cover 1842 and the bottom bridge cover 1844, including truss members 1845, 1846, and 1847. In this exemplary embodiment, the truss member is part of the base material of the truss member. The truss members provide strength without making the bridge 1840 overly heavy. Bridge 1840 can be made of metal, plastic, fiberglass, or equivalent. Bridge 1840 can also be made of a composite of several materials or additional materials. Note that the side caps 1811 and 1812 also include a truss system, as shown in Figure 18A. In another embodiment, the side caps 1811 and 1812 are made of solid material.

The patient transport system 1800 also has a first elongated roller 1820 positioned along a first elongated frame member or first side cap 1811 of the housing 1810 and a second elongated frame member or second of the housing 1810. Includes a second elongated roller 1822, located along the second side cap l812. The patient transport system 1800 also includes a set of four connector plates. Two of the connector plates are shown in Figure 18A as elements 1831 and 1832. They are most closely spaced relative to the end cap 1813. It should be understood that there is an additional connector plate located near the end cap 1814. One connector plate 1831 is attached to one end of the side cap 1811 and another connector plate is attached to the other end of the side cap 1811. Similarly, there are two connector plates, including the connector plate 1832, which are attached to the end of the side cap 1812. The rollers 1820 and 1822 are rotatably attached to the two connector plates. The end caps 1813 and 1814 are also attached to the connector plate in one embodiment. For example, the end cap 1813 attaches to the connector plates 1831 and 1832. The frame or enclosure 1810, bridge 1840, and connector plate form the support system 1830 for patient transport system 1800. In one embodiment, the bridge 1840 is attached to the end caps 1813 and 1814. In another embodiment, the end caps 1813, 1814 include a recess for receiving the end of the bridge. In this way, the bridge does not need to be connected by hardware, but can simply slide into an opening or recess in the end caps 1813, 1814.

As shown in FIG. 18B, the continuous belt 1850 covers and fits the rollers 1820, 1822, the top bridge cover 1842, and the bottom bridge cover 1844. The continuous belt 1850 is positioned in a transport relationship with respect to the first roller 1820 and the second roller 1822, and with respect to the bridge 1840. Since FIG. 18B is an exploded view, the belt is shown separately from the rollers 1820, 1822, top bridge cover 1842, and bottom bridge cover 1844. As shown in FIG. 18C, the first roller 1820, the second roller 1822, and the bridge 1840 are positioned within the continuous belt 1850. One part of the continuous belt 1850 carries an object (not shown), while another part of the continuous belt 1850 passes through the housing 1810. The continuous belt 1850 passes through the top bridge cover 1842, the bottom bridge cover 1844 of the bridge 1840, and the rollers 1820, 1822 while inside the housing 1810. The continuous belt 1850 passes through the housing 1810 and does not come into contact with the main surface from which or to which the patient is transferred. As the continuous belt is moved to transfer the object, the continuous belt 1850 passes through the support structure 1830, specifically the covers 1844, 1842 and rollers. The materials used to form the top bridge cover 1842 and bottom bridge cover 1844 include, in some embodiments, materials that reduce the friction generated between the covers 1842, 1844 and the belt 1850.

Looking here at Figure 18B, the patient transport device 1800 is assembled and covers 1844. The end cap 1813 has been removed to more clearly show the truss members of the bridge 1840 used to support 1842. Truss members and covers are made of materials suitable for transporting patients. Of course, safety factors can be incorporated into the design.

Figure 18C shows a fully assembled patient transport device 1800. The continuous belt is cut along the length so that multiple parts of the support system 1830 are shown.

FIG. 7 shows a partially cut perspective view of the disposable chuck 700 according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 8 shows a bottom view of the disposable chuck 700 according to an exemplary embodiment. During operation, the chuck 700 is used to provide additional cushioning material and to provide a clean surface on which objects are transported. The chuck can also be disposable and include an absorbent material in the embodiments shown. In another embodiment, the chuck is formed from a permanent material and is adapted to accept an absorbent material. The absorbent material will absorb the fluid, which can be produced or derived from an object such as a patient. Any kind of absorbent material can be used. There is a limit to the thickness of the chuck 700. When used, the chuck 700 fits into the space between the outer surface of the continuous belt 330 when positioned on one of the rollers 320, 322 and the edges 311, 312 of the housing, respectively. Must. The thickness is represented by the variable "t" shown in FIG. The chuck 700 has a width W. The width W is smaller than the width of the continuous belt 330. The width of the chuck 700 cannot be wider than the continuous belt 330, or the chuck 700 will bind the transport device 300 together. Looking at FIG. 7, the chuck 700 includes a bottom layer 710, an absorption layer 720, and a top layer 730. The various layers 710, 720, and 730 are made of clean material. The various layers may also be made of disposable material. The top layer 730 will be permeable or allow fluid to move to the absorption layer 720. The chuck 700 also includes a first edge 711 and a second edge 712. In one embodiment, edges 711, 712 are perforated or have markings from a perforated connection to another chuck. FIG. 8 shows that the bottom layer 710 includes an adhesive strip 810 towards one edge, such as edge 711 of the chuck 700. The adhesive strip 810 can be a single elongated strip or form an elongated adhesive strip near the edge 711. It can be several smaller strips, arranged end-to-end. In another embodiment, the adhesive strip can be a plurality of strips or a plurality of elongated strips in the vicinity of one of the edges 711 of the chuck 700. In one embodiment, the strips can be parallel to each other and parallel to the edge 711. The adhesives used are generally removable types of adhesives, such as those used on Post-It® notes from Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing (St. Paul, MN). Is. The peelable adhesive will allow the strip to be applied to the surface and removed without leaving any adhesive residue on the surface. In yet another embodiment, the adhesive strip is covered with a piece of material to seal the adhesive until it is exposed for use. The material is a type that can be peeled off and pasted. The chuck 700 can be collected in one place along one of the edges 711, 712 and used to move an object such as a patient. In one embodiment, the chuck 700 may include a handle opening. A peelable type of adhesive, such as an adhesive similar to that used on Post-It® notes from MN). The peelable adhesive will allow the strip to be applied to the surface and removed without leaving any adhesive residue on the surface. In yet another embodiment, the adhesive strip is covered with a piece of material to seal the adhesive until it is exposed for use. The material is a type that can be peeled off and pasted. The chuck 700 can be collected in one place along one of the edges 711, 712 and used to move an object such as a patient. In one embodiment, the chuck 700 may include a handle opening. A peelable type of adhesive, such as an adhesive similar to that used on Post-It® notes from MN). The peelable adhesive will allow the strip to be applied to the surface and removed without leaving any adhesive residue on the surface. In yet another embodiment, the adhesive strip is covered with a piece of material to seal the adhesive until it is exposed for use. The material is a type that can be peeled off and pasted. The chuck 700 can be collected in one place along one of the edges 711, 712 and used to move an object such as a patient. In one embodiment, the chuck 700 may include a handle opening.

FIG. 19 shows a bottom view of the disposable chuck 1900 according to another exemplary embodiment. The disposable chuck 1900 is similar to the disposable chuck 700. Rather than repeating all the similarities, the discussion below will place the highest priority on the major differences between the disposable chuck 700 and the disposable chuck 1900. The chuck 1900 contains a second piece of adhesive 1910 that can be removed during the initial loading of the chuck 700 onto the patient transfer device, or later if necessary. In some cases, the second piece of adhesive may not be used at all.

FIG. 9 shows roll 930 of wall-mounted bracket 900 and chuck 700 for patient transport device 300 according to an exemplary embodiment. FIG. 10 is an end view of the wall-mounted bracket 900 for the patient transport device 300 and the roll 930 of the chuck 700 according to an exemplary embodiment. The details of the wall-mounted bracket and the roll 930 of the chuck 700 are further detailed here with reference to both FIGS. 9 and 10. The wall-mounted bracket 900 is mounted or mounted on a substantially vertical surface such as a wall 902. The wall bracket 900 has an upper portion 910 and a lower portion 912. The upper portion 910 is substantially parallel to the lower portion 912. The lower portion 910 is adjacent to the wall 902. The lower portion 912 is attached to the wall via any kind of fastening device such as lug bolts, screws, or equivalents. The lower portion 912 can be attached using an adhesive. In some embodiments, both an adhesive and one or more fasteners are used to attach the lower portion 912 of the wall bracket 900 to the wall 902. When attached, the top 910 is free and separated from the wall at a distance greater than the width of the patient transport device 300. The patient transport device can then be housed along the wall, resulting in a minimal footprint. The patient transport device 300 also does not interfere with the ground. In many cases, the floor is kept clean, so moving the patient transport device off the floor helps in that it does not need to be moved to clean the room. The wall bracket 900 can be used in any type of room, including operating rooms, hospital rooms, or corridors near multiple hospital rooms. The device can also be used in ambulances or helicopters, or transport vehicles such as rescue vessels. The roll of the chuck 700 is stored above the wall-mounted bracket 900. The chuck 700 is formed on the roll 930 and can be easily deployed. The patient transport device 300 is removed. Chuck on perforated edge such as edge 712 It is torn off the roll along. Adhesives can then be used to removably attach the chuck 700 to the belt 330 of the transport device 300. Of course, in other embodiments, the chuck 700 may be attached to the patient transport device 300 before being removed from the storage spot of the wall-mounted bracket 900. In one embodiment, the upper portion 910 is attached to the lower portion by a spring hinge 914. The spring hinge 914 makes it possible to provide a substantially vertical working surface for the patient transport device 300 as the upper portion 910 bends and the chuck is loaded onto it. After the chuck 700 is loaded onto the patient transport device 300, the spring hinge 914 returns the upper portion 910 to a position close to the wall on which the wall bracket 900 is mounted. In yet another embodiment, the rolls of the chuck can be placed or mounted in the housing. The housing can be mounted on a suitable surface. The housing protects the roll of the chuck 700.

FIG. 17 shows another embodiment of the wall-mounted bracket 1700 for the patient transport device 300 and the roll 930 of the chuck 700, according to an exemplary embodiment. The wall-mounted bracket 1700 is mounted in a vertical orientation. The space in the operating room is valuable. The vertical orientation of the wall-mounted bracket 1700 provides less footprint with respect to the operating room floor. In this way, the wall-mounted bracket 1700 will allow space for other equipment to be placed within the operating room. In this embodiment, the roll 930 of the chuck 700 is also mounted vertically. It should be recognized that the roll 930 of the chuck 700 can also be mounted horizontally. In fact, in various exemplary embodiments, one of the wall brackets or rolls can be mounted substantially horizontally and the other of the wall brackets or rolls can be mounted substantially vertically. it can. In each of the various embodiments, the wall brackets 900, 1700 are provided with a set of contacts for a contact charger. The patient transport device 300 will have a corresponding set of contacts that contacts the set of contacts associated with the device 300. The contacts will be used to recharge the motor inside the device 300. Similarly, the device 300 and wall-mounted bracket can also include a non-contact charging system that can be used to charge the motor associated with the device 300. In one embodiment, the non-contact charging device will include a set of coils associated with the patient transport device 300 and another set of coils associated with the wall bracket 1700. The alternating current passed through the coil in the wall bracket will induce the alternating current in the coil of the transport device. They can be rectified and used to charge storage devices such as batteries. In such an embodiment, there are no electrical contacts, which is advantageous when the operating room involves the use of flammable gases and equivalents. In another embodiment, a wall-mounted bra The ket can be provided with electrical contacts that come into contact with the patient transport device so that it can be charged when placed inside the wall-mounted bracket 1700. The wall-mounted bracket 1700 includes an upper portion 1710 and a lower portion 1712. In one embodiment, the upper portion 1710 is attached to the lower portion 1712 by a spring hinge 1714. The spring hinge 1714 makes it possible to provide a substantially vertical working surface for the patient transport device 300 as the upper portion 1710 bends and the chuck is loaded onto it. After the chuck 700 is loaded onto the patient transport device 300, the spring hinge 1714 returns the upper portion 1710 to a position close to the wall on which the wall bracket 1700 is mounted.

FIG. 11 shows a flow diagram of Method 1100 for operating a patient transport device and chuck according to an exemplary embodiment. The patient transport device 300 is removed from the wall bracket 1110 and the chuck 700 is removed from the roll of the chuck 1112. Chuck 700 is applied to the continuous belt 330 of the patient transport device 1114. Applying the chuck to a continuous belt involves removing a peel-off type cover from the adhesive strip and placing the chuck's adhesive strip on the continuous belt of the patient transport device. In general, the adhesive strip will be applied to the belt near the rim, which will first be placed under the patient. The belt is moved to place a portion of the chuck into the opening between the housing 310 and the edge of the belt 330, as depicted by 1116. This can be referred to as loading the chuck onto the patient transfer device 1116. The object to be moved is then rolled away from the patient transfer device 1118, the patient transfer device is placed adjacent to the object to be moved 1120, and then the object is rolled back onto the patient transfer device. Will be 1122. Here, the patient or other object is partially above the patient transfer device. The object can then be placed on a continuous belt and the chuck can be pulled and the object pushed to transfer the object from the first surface to the second surface 1124. At least a portion of the chuck contacts the continuous belt. The object continues to be moved until it is above the second surface 1126. The object can then be tilted or rolled away from the patient transfer device 1128, then the patient transfer device can be removed 1130, and the object can be rolled onto a second surface 1132. ..

FIG. 12 shows a complementary sheet 1200 that can be used to add strength to the chuck 700 during patient transfer, according to an exemplary embodiment. When an object is heavy or exceeds a certain weight, the chuck 700 may not be able to withstand the tensile force required to move the object. As a result, the thicker and stronger material Sheet 1200 complements and augments the system. As shown, the sheet is a relatively thin and sturdy plastic sheet sized to fit on continuous belts 330, 1850. During operation, the seat 1200 fits between the chuck 700 and the continuous belts 330, 1850. The sheet is positioned there when it is determined that an object, such as a heavy patient, can be large enough so that only the tensile force on the chuck 700 can break the chuck 700. The seat 1200 is made of sturdy plastic that is unlikely to tear and can be gripped and moved. In one exemplary embodiment, the sheet 1200 is made of polyethylene, having a thickness of about 20 mils. As shown, the sheet 1200 has a first edge 1201 and a second edge 1202. The seat 1200 can have a first set of hand-held portions 1211 located near the first edge 1201 and a second set of hand-held portions 1213 near the second edge 1202. In another embodiment, the sheet can include a foam material. The foam material provides additional cushioning for the object during transport. In some embodiments, the foam is added to the sheet 1200 to provide a composite sheet that is both strong and cushioning. In another embodiment, the sheet may be made entirely of foam material.

In some embodiments, the patient transport device 300 comprises a drive mechanism 1210. FIG. 13 shows a schematic diagram of a transport device 1200 with a drive system 1210 according to an exemplary embodiment. The drive mechanism includes, in one embodiment, an electric motor 1210 such as a brushless induction motor. The electric motor swivels the shafts 1212 and 1212', which are connected to at least one of the elongated rollers 320, 322. The shafts 1212 and 1212'turn to drive the rollers 320 and 322. The shafts 1212, 1212'swing in one direction to rotate the roller in the first direction and in the other direction to rotate the roller in the opposite direction. In one embodiment, the shafts 1212, 1212'are connected so that the rollers 320, 322 can rotate freely in preference to the drive motor 1210. In one embodiment, motor 1210 includes a set of gearboxes with pawls used to drive the shaft in the first direction. If the rollers are swiveled faster than the drive speed, the pawl simply rides in adjacent drive positions to allow the rollers to rotate freely in the drive direction. This is useful when the drive mechanism is not moving fast enough and people who monitor the transfer of objects in an emergency or the like want to expedite the transfer. In addition, if there is a power loss, it is necessary to move the object. As discussed above, the patient transport device is bidirectional because the shafts 1212, 1212'can be driven in the first and second directions. Of course, the second direction can be the opposite or opposite of the first direction. It is considered that the sensor can be used to automatically determine in which direction the rollers are driven. In one embodiment, an accelerometer can be used to detect tilt and to detect which side of the patient transport device 300 first contacts the surface. This will generally indicate aspects of the patient transport device 300 placed beneath the patient. In another embodiment, patient transport A stress or strain gauge is provided on each edge of the device 300. Stress or strain gauges can be used to detect forces such as the patient's partial weight on one edge of the patient transport device. In either embodiment, the patient is detected using a strain gauge, or the tilt of the device 300 is detected so that the top or outer surface of the continuous belt is positioned on the surface of the device 300. Driven away from the patient to move. In some embodiments, inertial activation is used to determine the direction in which the belt is driven. Note that one or more of these types of sensors can be combined to form a more robust system.

In one embodiment, the electric motor is powered by a battery. In one exemplary embodiment, the wall bracket may include a charger that charges the battery by inductive technology. Of course, the motor in the patient transfer device 1200 is an induction motor. The charger is located in the wall bracket 900 and is positioned in a charging relationship with the motor in the patient transfer device 1200. The induction contact point is located within the patient transfer device. The battery in the patient transfer device 1200 is then charged whenever the patient transfer device is placed in the wall-mounted bracket 900. Therefore, the battery 1220 will be charged and ready when the patient transfer device is needed. After use, the patient transfer device 1200 is placed in a wall-mounted bracket and recharged. In another embodiment, the charger can also be placed in the wall near the wall bracket. In yet another embodiment, the wall bracket 900 includes a series of stops that correctly position the patient transfer device with respect to the wall bracket so that the charger in the wall bracket can charge the battery 1220.

FIG. 14 is a schematic representation of a control system that acts in response to a set of sensors associated with a transport device 1200, according to an exemplary embodiment. The patient transport device 1200 includes a controller 1310 for controlling the electric motor 1210 used to drive the patient transport device 1200. The patient transfer device 1200 also includes sensors such as sensor 1311 and sensor 1312. Sensor 1311 is associated or positioned on or within the first edge of the patient transfer device housing. The sensor 1312 is associated or positioned on or within the second edge of the housing of the patient transfer device 1200. Sensors 1311, 1312 are used to detect the position of the object being transported. Sensors 1311, 1312 can be any type of sensor, including optical sensors, thermal sensors, gyro sensors, inertial sensors, or strain gauges, or equivalents. An optical sensor detects an object in response to a reduced amount of light generated by one sensor compared to another optical sensor. The strain gauge will detect the weight added to the enclosure in the area of the sensor location. The heat sensor can detect the heat of an object, for example, if the object is a human being. The gyro sensor senses the axial position of a portion of the patient transport device 1200. The inertial sensor detects the start of movement or the stop of movement. Sensors 1311 and 1312 can be used to control the movement or drive of the continuous belt 330 so that the patient transport device is easy to use for hospital personnel who use the device to transport the patient. Of course, more than two sensors can be used in other embodiments.

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram of method 1500 for controlling the movement of the belt and for driving the belt, according to an exemplary embodiment. If the chuck 700 is placed on a belt near the edge, the rollers will be swiveled towards the edge to push the chuck 700 into the enclosure 1510. The controller 700 detects the movement and direction of the rollers for this operation 1512 and can set the rollers to be driven in the direction opposite to the chuck pushing direction 1514. For ease of discussion, assume that the edge carrying the sensor 1311 will be the edge that will be initially placed near the object to be moved. The object is typically rolled off the edge. For example, if the patient is a moving object, the patient is turned sideways 1516. The rim is placed adjacent to the object to be moved and then rolled over the rim and over the sensor 1311. The position of the patient is sensed 1518. If the sensor 1311 is an optical sensor, a signal indicating a lack of light or a sharp drop in the amount of light is sent to the controller 1310. The controller 1310 can then drive the rollers to move the belt 330 away from the sensor 1311 as depicted by reference number 1520. In some embodiments, the controller may need to detect the lack of light for a set amount of time before actually moving. This would prevent detecting an object in the absence of such an object (such as a user placing his hand on sensor 1311). In one embodiment, sensor 1311 can be compared to sensor 1312. If the two detect equal levels of light, the room will simply be dark. In another embodiment, the sensor can be a stress / strain gauge. If the object is rolled over the edge containing the sensor 1311, the stress / strain gauge will detect the additional weight on the frame or part of the frame in the vicinity of the sensor 1311. Sensor 1311 also has an object on the frame Thermal or warm objects can also be detected to determine if there is. Once an object is detected, the drive system 1210 drives the rollers away from the edge with the sensor 1311. The drive system 1210 will drive the rollers to move the object 1522 and then stop driving the object 1524. There are many options for stopping the rollers. For example, in one embodiment, the drive system 1210 moves the rollers to move the object until the sensor 1312 detects the object by lack of light, weight gain, or by sensing heat with the sensor 1312. Will drive. In one embodiment, the drive system 1210 can continue to drive the belt for a set amount of time or for a set distance. In yet another embodiment, the belt can be driven until the lack of weight, increased light or heat is no longer detected by the sensor 1312. In yet another embodiment, the driver 1210 stops when the load required to drive the belt increases, which causes the object to travel to the second surface and is now on the second surface. Indicates that it is partially stationary on top. The horizontal component of the force required to overcome the friction on the second surface will increase the load on the motor. The motor associated with the drive system can then be stopped. The object can be rolled or tilted 1526, the patient transfer system can be removed 1527, and can be placed back into the wall-mounted bracket for recharging 1528. Will drive the rollers to move the object until the sensor 1312 detects the object by lack of light, weight gain, or by sensing heat with the sensor 1312. In one embodiment, the drive system 1210 can continue to drive the belt for a set amount of time or for a set distance. In yet another embodiment, the belt can be driven until the lack of weight, increased light or heat is no longer detected by the sensor 1312. In yet another embodiment, the driver 1210 stops when the load required to drive the belt increases, which causes the object to travel to the second surface and is now on the second surface. Indicates that it is partially stationary on top. The horizontal component of the force required to overcome the friction on the second surface will increase the load on the motor. The motor associated with the drive system can then be stopped. The object can be rolled or tilted 1526, the patient transfer system can be removed 1527, and can be placed back into the wall-mounted bracket for recharging 1528. Will drive the rollers to move the object until the sensor 1312 detects the object by lack of light, weight gain, or by sensing heat with the sensor 1312. In one embodiment, the drive system 1210 can continue to drive the belt for a set amount of time or for a set distance. In yet another embodiment, the belt can be driven until the lack of weight, increased light or heat is no longer detected by the sensor 1312. In yet another embodiment, the driver 1210 stops when the load required to drive the belt increases, which causes the object to travel to the second surface and is now on the second surface. Indicates that it is partially stationary on top. The horizontal component of the force required to overcome the friction on the second surface will increase the load on the motor. The motor associated with the drive system can then be stopped. The object can be rolled or tilted 1526, the patient transfer system can be removed 1527, and can be placed back into the wall-mounted bracket for recharging 1528. can do. The object can be rolled or tilted 1526, the patient transfer system can be removed 1527, and can be placed back into the wall-mounted bracket for recharging 1528. can do. The object can be rolled or tilted 1526, the patient transfer system can be removed 1527, and can be placed back into the wall-mounted bracket for recharging 1528.

In the above, one control method is discussed. Note that other control methods are possible. For example, a sensor capable of detecting a horizontal surface may be used. The patient transfer device can be placed on the first and second surfaces and can be substantially horizontal. The chuck 700 can be attached to the belt. When the patient or object is turned sideways, the patient transfer device is typically tilted slightly with the lower end closest to the patient or object. Sensing the tilt towards the edge can be a signal driving the rollers in the direction towards the patient to load the chuck 700. The rest of the control methods discussed above can then be implemented as discussed above.

The above describes a system that will work with some sensors. It is considered that inputs to the controller can be generated to use other sensors and enhance usability for hospital staff or other people who use the patient transfer system. For example, gyro technology can also be used to detect certain conditions. A gyro sensor can be used to detect a substantially horizontal state, such as when the patient transfer device is placed between the first and second surfaces. Once leveling is detected, the drive system can be enabled or turned on to prepare for use. Using gyro technology, the device can also be disabled or turned off when it is determined to be at an angle greater than a selected threshold, such as 30 degrees, with respect to a horizontal plane or horizon. The horizontal plane can also be used to generate inputs to enable and disable the device. The sensor can also provide an input that automatically shuts off the device when it is in a wall-mounted bracket.

FIG. 16 outlines a computer device for a machine in an exemplary electronic form of Computer System 2000, within which a set of instructions for causing the machine to perform the methods discussed above, according to an exemplary embodiment. The figure is shown. In various exemplary embodiments, the machine can operate as a stand-alone device or be connected to other machines (eg, networked). In a network connection deployment, the machine can operate as a server or client machine in a server-client network environment or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. Machines include personal computers (PCs), tablet PCs, set-top boxes (STBs), personal digital assistants (PDAs), mobile phones, and portable music players (eg Moving Picture Experts Group Audio Layer). 3 (Portable hard drive audio devices such as (MP3) players), web appliances, network routers, switches, bridges, or a set (sequential or different) instructions that identify the actions taken by the machine. It can be any possible machine. Moreover, although only a single machine is illustrated, the term "machine" is also a set (or set) to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein. It shall be construed to include any set of machines that execute the instructions individually or jointly.

An exemplary computer system 2000 is a processor or multiple processors 2002 (eg, central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), arithmetic logic unit, or all) that communicate with each other over bus 2008. , As well as main memory 2004 and static memory 2006. The computer system 2000 can further include a video display unit 2010 (eg, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT)). The computer system 2000 also includes an alphanumeric input device 2012 (eg keyboard), a cursor control device 2014 (eg mouse), a disk drive unit 2016, a signal generation device 2018 (eg speaker), and a network interface device 2020. And include.

The disk-driven unit 2016 employs, or utilizes, one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein by a set of instructions and data structures (eg, instructions 2024). Includes a computer-readable medium 2022 stored on it. Instruction 2024 can also be present entirely or at least partially in main memory 2004 and / or in processor 2002 during its execution by computer system 2000. The main memory 2004 and the processor 2002 can also constitute a machine-readable medium.

Instruction 2024 also utilizes one of several well-known transfer protocols (eg, Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), CAN, Serial, or Modbus) via network interface device 2020. It can be transmitted or received via network 2026. For example, an application called an app, Apple It can be used with handheld devices such as the iPhone® available from Computer, and it is considered that various radiotelephone carriers can be employed as interfaces for controlling patient transfer devices. Other smartphones can also be provided with applications that can be used to control patient transfer devices. For example, a mobile phone application can be used to enable or turn on the device and issue certain commands required to move an object. In essence, the application can be used to convert a mobile phone or smartphone into a remote control. Of course, a dedicated remote control can also be provided for the patient transport device. Although the computer-readable medium 2022 has been shown to be a single medium in an exemplary embodiment, the term "computer-readable medium" stores one or more instructions and provides the instructions in a computer-readable form. Should be interpreted as including a single medium or multiple media (eg, centralized or distributed databases, and / or associated caches and servers). The term "computer-readable medium" also causes a machine to perform one or more of the methodologies of the present application, which is capable of storing, encoding, or executing a set of instructions for execution by a machine. , Or any medium capable of storing, encoding, or executing data structures utilized or associated with such a set of instructions. The term "computer-readable medium" is therefore construed to include, but is not limited to, solid state memory, optical or magnetic media, tangible forms, and signals that can be read or perceived by a computer. And. Such media are, but are not limited to, hard disks, floppy (registered trademark) disks, flash memory cards, digital video disks, and LA It can also include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), and equivalents. The computer system or part of the computer system can be used as controller 1310 in the drive system of the patient transfer device. In addition, the patient-driven system can be provided with any kind of link for receiving a signal via a link such as an internet link, an RF link, an infrared link, or an equivalent.

The exemplary embodiments described herein are in an operating environment with computer-executable instructions (eg, software) installed on a computer, in hardware, or in a combination of software and hardware. Can be implemented. Modules as used herein can be hardware, or hardware that includes circuits that execute instructions. Computer-executable instructions can be written in a computer programming language or embodied in firmware logic. Written in a programming language that conforms to recognized standards, such instructions can be executed on different hardware platforms for interfaces to different operating systems. Computer software programs for implementing this method include, but are not limited to, hypertext markup language (HTML), dynamic HTML, extended markup language (XML), extended style sheet language (XSL), and document style. Semantics Designated Language (DSSSL), Cascading Style Sheet (CSS), Synchronized Multimedia Integrated Language (SMIL), Wireless Markup Language (WML), Java®, Jini^TM, C, C ++, Perl, UNIX® Shell, Visual Basic or Visual Basic Scripting, Virtual Reality Markup Language (VRML), ColdFusion^TM, Or any number of suitable programming languages such as other compilers, assemblers, interpreters, or other computer languages or platforms.

This is a detailed description of some exemplary embodiments of the invention contained within the disclosed subject matter. Such inventions, where more than one is actually disclosed, are not intended to limit the scope of the present application to any single invention or concept of the invention, but merely for convenience here. The term "invention" can be referred to individually and / or collectively. A detailed description will be made in reference to the accompanying drawings which form a portion thereof and show some specific embodiments of the present invention, including preferred embodiments, as an example, but not a limitation. These embodiments will be described in sufficient detail to allow one of ordinary skill in the art to understand and implement the subject matter of the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the subject matter of the invention. Thus, although specific embodiments are illustrated and described herein, any sequence calculated to achieve the same objective may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. The present disclosure is intended to cover all possible adaptations or variations of various embodiments. A combination of the above embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon scrutiny of the above description.