NZ272899A - Transporting apparatus for bed ridden patient with lift platform adjustable to two or more positions - Google Patents

Description

2 esst) 8 E »* / /r > O r ** IN \ Ti| 29 AUG 19S6 » PATENTS form NO, 5 l. ^ ... • '• * Fee No. 4: $260.00 PATENTS ACT 1953 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION After Provisional No: 272899 Dated: 30 August 1995 James & Wells Ref: 10957/8 TRANSPORTING APPARATUS I Garth Mervyn Spooner, a New Zealand citizen of 544 Lowe Street, Hastings, New Zealand hereby declare the invention for which I/We pray that a patent may be granted to me/us, and the method by which it is to be performed to be particularly described in and by the following statement: 1 27289 TRANSPORTING APPARATUS technical field This invention relates to transporting apparatus.

In particular, it is envisaged that the transporting apparatus will be most commonly used by a single care giver to transport bed ridden patients to and from their beds.

In addition, the shape of the transporting apparatus may be transformed into the configuration of a chair to enable bed ridden patients to be 10 transported to a flushing toilet, or meal table as required.

However, the present invention could have applications outside this field. background art A number of devices are available for supporting, lifting and carrying bed ridden patients to and from their beds.

Wheelchairs are an example of such apparatus. Wheelchairs enable an otherwise immobile person to be transported to a toilet, for bathing, or for moving the person in and out of a motor vehicle.

Other apparatus for transporting bed ridden patients include a variety of mobile frames to which may be mounted a table or bracket construction 20 (as in New Zealand Patent No. 42815), or a series of shaped detachable arms (as in New Zealand Patent Nos. 109170, 111349), or tynes (as in New Zealand Patent No. 146580). Typically, the table, bracket, detachable arms, or tynes are placed on or against a bed in such a manner that the bed 2 272 ridden person can be moved from the bed onto the table, bracket, detachable arms, or tynes without being lifted. The apparatus and the supported person can then be moved away from the bed, or returned to the bed, as required. Such apparatus may incorporate a means of raising 5 and lowering the table, bracket, arms, or tynes to a height required to enable a bed ridden person to be lifted away from a bed, or lowered onto the bed.

Yet other transporting apparatus may involve moving belts (such as in New Zealand Patent Nos. 158257 and 162700) for moving otherwise 10 immobile patients to or from a bed without substantially changing the position of the patient's body. The invention New Zealand Patent No. 158257 enables a patient to be transferred from the ground to a stretcher, while that of New Zealand Patent No. 162700 may be used to change the sheet under a patient lying in the bed.

Other transporting apparatus may be adjustable, such that a flat stretcher, or bed may be converted into a seat, as with New Zealand Patent Nos. 120986 and 219939. The shape of the stretcher, or bed may be changed from a horizontal position through a number of configurations via a motor, or rotatable handle attached to a screwed rod, until a fully sitting 20 up position is achieved. Pivotal attachment of one section of the stretcher to another, enables the stretcher to be transformed from a horizontal structure to a seat.

Wheels or castors are also a typical feature of such transporting apparatus. 3 * J 7 f C/ L U However, there are problems associated with the use of the above mentioned transporting apparatus. For example, wheelchairs are typically used merely to transport an otherwise immobile person from one location to another. Where a person is required to be transported 5 from a bed, there is an added difficulty involved in moving the person from the bed into the wheelchair.

Where the person is particularly incapacitated, or obese, it may not be possible for a single care giver to manoeuvre that person from a bed into a wheelchair. Accordingly, in such situations, it may be necessary for two 10 or more care givers to be involved in transporting the bed ridden person to and from the bed. The use of a wheelchair for transporting a bed ridden person to and from the bed is therefore inefficient, labour intensive, and is unsuitable where only one care giver is available at any one time.

Problems are also encountered when using a transporting apparatus 15 which comprises a frame on which is mounted a table, bracket, detachable arms, or tynes. Such apparatus is typically adapted to be placed on or against a bed in such a manner that the bed ridden person can be moved from the bed onto the table, bracket, detachable arms or tynes. However, such apparatus does not typically incorporate a means 20 by which the transporting apparatus may grip or lock onto the bedding, or the bed, to facilitate loading and unloading of the person onto and off the transporting apparatus.

Therefore, it may again be necessary for two or more care givers to be involved in transporting a bed ridden patient to and from the bed. 25 Accordingly, where more than one care giver is involved, transporting a bed ridden patient to and from the bed becomes labour intensive, and is 4 n f. - 2/ c b more difficult to accomplish where only one care giver is available at any one time.

Further, the designs of transporting apparata such as are discussed in New Zealand Patent Specification Nos. 42815,109170,111349 and 146580 5 are such that once the bed ridden person is lifted onto the apparatus, the person is maintained in a horizontal, (lying) position.

These forms of transporting apparata do not incorporate any means whereby the shape of the transporting apparatus may be altered to a configuration which enables the bed ridden patient to be manoeuvred to a 10 sitting position. Accordingly, such transporting apparatus is therefore not suitable for also being used to enable the bed ridden person to comfortably use a toilet or bathing area, or sit at a meal table as required. Further, the limited space and design of toilet and bathing areas, either in the home or in a hospital, would render such transporting apparatus 15 impractical.

Yet other transporting apparata which include moving belts (as in New Zealand Patent Nos. 158257 and 162700) are typically bulky and are not designed to be converted into a seat. Accordingly, such transporting apparata are similarly unsuitable for enabling a bed ridden person to use 20 a toilet or bathing area, or sit at a table. Again, the size and design of the transporting apparatus operate against the transporting apparatus from being able to straddle a toilet, or fit into the relatively small spaces generally allocated to toilets and bathing areas within a home or hospital.

The forms of transporting apparata which are capable of being converted 25 from a horizontal position into a seat Eire also not entirely suitable for transporting a bed ridden person to and from their bed, particularly 2 / • L ! I ■ / 4L Q ^ where the person is required to be transported to a toilet or bathing area. Typically, the seats of such transporting apparata are not modified to enable the person to remain on the transporting apparatus while using a toilet, or when being bathed. Also, the design of the frame of such 5 transporting apparatus may prevent the transporting apparatus from completely straddling a toilet.

In addition, same adjustable transporting apparatus (such as in New Zealand Patent Nos. 120986 and 219939) also lack a means whereby the apparatus may be raised to the level of the person's bed to enable the bed 10 ridden person to be transported to and from the bed.

Other transporting apparata which are capable of being converted into a seat, may incorporate a lifting means, and also be suitable for transporting a bed ridden person to and from a toilet or bathing area (such as in New Zealand Patent No. 198743). Nevertheless, such 15 transporting apparata typically lack a means by which the transporting apparatus may grip or lock onto the bedding or the bed. Accordingly, the ability of a single care giver to safely and easily load and unload a bed ridden person onto the transporting apparatus reduced.

Again, such transporting apparatus requires that more than one care 20 giver be available for moving a bed ridden person onto and off the transporting apparatus. Accordingly, the use of such apparatus may be labour intensive and may therefore, be impractical in situations where the bed ridden person is being cared for within their own home, and where there may be only one care giver available. 6 27 28 In addition, most of the types of transporting apparatus discussed above, while mobile, lack a means by which the wheels of the transporting apparatus are able to be locked. Therefore, the operation of loading and unloading a bed ridden person onto or off the transporting apparatus may 5 be awkward for a single care giver who not only has to handle the bed ridden person, but also must attempt to maintain the stability and position of the transporting apparatus relative to the bed. t Therefore, it is often necessary for more than one care giver to be available to move a bed ridden person onto and off such transporting 10 apparatus.

Accordingly, the inability to lock the wheels of the transporting apparatus, again makes the use of such transporting apparatus labour intensive, or impractical in situations where there is only one care giver available.

It is an object of the present invention to address the foregoing problems or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only.

Disclosure of Invention According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided transporting apparatus capable of being operated by one person, .for transporting a bed ridden person between a bed and a variety of locations, wherein the transporting apparatus includes: 7 272 8 a) a lower frame incorporating lockable motion-facilitating apparatus, capable of moving the transporting apparatus across a surface; b) lifting apparatus capable of lifting an upper frame through a range of elevations; and wherein c) the upper frame incorporates adjustable supporting apparatus capable of supporting the bed ridden person in at least two positions; and d) at least one gripping apparatus capable of maintaining the transporting apparatus in close contact with the side of a bed.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of using transporting apparatus for transporting a bed ridden person between a bed and a variety of locations, substantially as described above including the steps of: a) operating the lifting apparatus of the transporting apparatus to lift the upper frame relative to the lower frame; and b) moving the transporting apparatus alongside the bed, via use of the lockable motion-facilitating apparatus such that the lower frame extends beneath the bed and the upper frame extends over the bed; and c) locking the multiple motion-facilitating apparatus to prevent movement of the transporting apparatus; and 8 27 d) enabling at least one gripping apparatus of the upper frame to grip the bed thereby maintaining the transporting apparatus in close contact with the bed; and e) loading the bed ridden person onto the supporting apparatus of the 5 upper frame, and f) loosening the motion-facilitating apparatus and gripping apparatus to enable'the transporting apparatus to be moved away from the bed; and g) adjusting the supporting apparatus of the upper frame to a position 10 for transporting the bed ridden person to a variety of locations, after which h) returning the bed ridden person to the bed by repeating (a) to (d) inclusive above and characterised by the transporting apparatus being capable of being 15 operated by one person.

For ease of reference, the transporting apparatus shall now be referred to as a trolley, although it should be appreciated that use of this term is not intended to be seen as limiting.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the trolley is capable of 20 being operated by one person in a home care or hospital care situation.. The ability of the trolley to be used by one person to transport a bed ridden patient between the bed and a variety of locations obviates the need to have additional personnel available to assist with movement of the bed ridden person to and from a toilet, bathing area, meal table, and so forth. 9 2728 The lower frame of the trolley is preferably substantially U-shaped. This substantially U-shaped design enables the trolley to straddle a toilet bowl, a table support, and so forth without the trolley frame impeding accessibility by an otherwise bed ridden person to these locations.

The substantially U-shaped lower frame includes two substantially horizontal side members being attached to, and connected by, a substantially horizontal back member being substantially perpendicular to both of the side members.

However, in other embodiments of the present invention the lower frame 10 of the trolley may be substantially V-shaped, or be otherwise suitably shaped to enable access by the bed ridden person, to a range of locations.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the structure of the lower frame is substantially square-shaped in cross-section. This substantially square-shaped, cross-sectional feature contributes to the strength of the lower frame. The strength of the lower frame is particularly important bearing in mind the range of weights of people likely to be carried by the trolley. However, the lower frame may be otherwise suitably configured in cross-section such as being substantially triangular, and so forth, to similarly contribute to the strength of the trolley.

Preferably, the lower frame of the trolley is further strengthened by additional brace supports, between either or both of the side members of the lower frame and the back member of the lower frame. Arrangement of the additional brace supports is such that the brace support does not 25 interfere with the accessibility of the trolley to a toilet, meal table, and so forth. 272 The lower frame of the trolley also preferably incorporates multiple motion-facilitating apparatus, lifting apparatus, stabilising apparatus, and at least one vertical member.

For ease of reference, the motion-facilitating apparatus shall now be 5 referred to as castors, although it should be appreciated that use of this term is not intended to be limiting. While castors are the motion-facilitating apparatus incorporated into preferred embodiments of the present invention, any suitable motion-facilitating apparatus may be used with the present invention, such as wheels, a continuous track, and so 10 forth.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the lower frame of the trolley incorporates six castors - three castors per side member. Incorporation of multiple castors contributes to the ease with which the trolley may be moved, particularly where heavier bed ridden people are 15 being carried by the trolley, or where the trolley is pushed across carpets. However, in other embodiments of the present invention the number of castors on each side member of the trolley's lower frame may be more or less than six. In addition, castors may be incorporated into the back member of the lower frame of the trolley.

Preferably, the castors are attached to the lower frame of the trolley via a bracket, or flange plate with bolts to firmly fix the castors to the lower frame. However, in other embodiments the castors of the trolley may incorporate a shaft which is inserted into a complementary cavity in the underside of the lower frame of the trolley. This alternate mechanism of 25 attachment of the castors to the lower frame of the trolley may be preferable where the castors are required to be easily removed and 11 27 replaced in situations where the efficiency of movement of the castors deteriorates over time and with use.

The castors of the trolley are preferably capable of finding and moving in any direction. This ability of the castors to find and move in any direction 5 improves the ease of handling of the trolley when the trolley is laden with a bed ridden person. Accordingly, changes in direction of the trolley may be accomplished with minimum effort by the care giver pushing the trolley.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the castors located at 10 the rear of the trolley, closest to the person pushing the trolley, are capable of being locked. This ability to lock the rear castors of the trolley ensures that the trolley is maintained in a stable position during loading and unloading of a bed ridden onto and off the trolley.

However, in other embodiments of the present invention, the means by 15 which movement of the trolley may be locked may be incorporated into other features of the trolley. Other features may include having a separate arm attached to either or both of the side members or back member of the lower frame such that the arm is able to contact the surface of the ground in a manner which prevents the trolley from 20 moving forward and/or backward, or the trolley may incorporate trolley-to-floor locking tumblers, and so forth.

For ease of reference the stabilising apparatus of the trolley shall now be referred to as foot supports, although it should be appreciated that use of this term is not intended to be seen as limiting. 12 272899 In one preferred embodiment of the present invention the lower frame of the trolley incorporates at least two foot supports. These foot supports enable a person on the trolley to have each foot supported during transportation to a toilet, and table, and so forth. Primarily, the foot 5 supports protect the person's feet from catching on doorways, castors, other furniture, and so forth, while the person is being transported on the trolley. f Further, the foot supports may also be used by an operator of the trolley to apply additional weight to further stabilise the trolley during loading and 10 unloading of a bedridden person onto or off a trolley; or to assist in movement of the trolley when carrying a bedridden person; or for when the trolley is required to be manoeuvred within a confined space.

Preferably, the trolley incorporates two foot supports situated at either end of the back member of the lower frame, for ease of accessibility of the foot 15 supports for the person being transported on the trolley. While the primary function of foot support is to keep the feet within the frame area, to prevent feet hitting doorways, furniture, and so forth, the foot supports may also be used to rest a person's feet on when the person is being transported on the trolley.

The availability of two foot supports also enables the operator of the trolley to choose which foot support is most convenient for the operator to use when stabilising the trolley during loading and unloading, or manoeuvring when controlling or manoeuvring the trolley at any particular time or in any location. 13 27 £ b However, other embodiments of the invention may incorporate only a single horizontal foot support attached between the vertical members of the trolley. Alternately, the foot supports, may be situated at any other point along the back member, or side members of the trolley.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention one end of the foot support is attached to the back member of the lower frame, while the other end of the foot support is free and is substantially angled diagonally across, and in line with, the longitudinal axis of the back member of the lower frame of the trolley. This arrangement of the foot support enables 10 the feet of a bed-ridden person to be more easily positioned into or removed from the foot support without the foot support impeding foot access.

In other embodiments however, the foot supports may be otherwise configured such as being a single horizontal bar, or may be arcuate, V-shaped, and so forth, to completely surround the person's foot. These 15 alternative shaped foot supports may be particularly useful where an operator uses the foot support to provide additional leverage to manoeuvre the trolley. Further, both ends of the foot support may be attached to the lower frame of the trolley.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention two vertical members 20 are fixedly attached to either end of the back member of the lower frame of the trolley. These vertical members operate to support the upper frame and the supporting apparatus of the trolley.

In other embodiments of the present invention, the vertical member nay be positioned at other locations along the back member or side members 25 of the lower frame. Alternately, there may be a single central vertical member, which may or may not also incorporate diagonal supports from 14 27 O o the vertical member to the back member of the lower frame, for additional strength.

Further, instead of two independent members, or a single vertical member, the trolley may incorporate an arcuate member attached at both 5 ends to the back member of the lower frame, and which extends vertically from the back member to support the upper frame of the trolley. Any other suitable means may be used for attaching and supporting the upper frame to the trolley. ' In other preferred embodiments the back member of the lower frame may 10 incorporate at least one fixed protrusion over which vertical members may be telescopically fitted. Alternately, each side member of the lower frame may incorporate one or more fixed protrusions to which vertical members may be telescopically or removably attached.

In some embodiments of the present invention the vertical member(s) of 15 the trolley may also incorporate steering apparatus.

For ease of reference the steering apparatus shall now be referred to as a handlebar, although use of this term is not intended to be limiting.

The handlebar of the trolley is preferably attached to each of the vertical members of the trolley in the form of a single bar extending in a 20 substantially horizontal plane between and beyond the vertical members. Having the handlebar as a single bar provides additional strength to the handlebar, particularly where the trolley is used to transport heavy people. However, the trolley may incorporate more than one handlebar, each handle being attached to one of the vertical members of the trolley, or 25 the bandlebar(s) may be an integral part of the vertical members of the trolley, and so forth. 27 In preferred embodiments of the present invention the handlebar of the trolley is straight. However, in other embodiments of the present invention the handlebar may be suitable contoured, to enable the operator to more efficiently grip the handlebar, and manoeuvre the trolley.

Preferably, the handlebar(s) of the present invention includes a hand grip portion to enable the operator of the trolley to more firmly grip the handlebar(s), thereby ensuring greater control of the trolley by an operator and accordingly, the safety of a bed ridden person being transported on the trolley.

For ease of reference the lifting apparatus shall now be referred to as a jack, although use of this term is not to be seen as limiting this specification.

In one preferred embodiment the jack is a hydraulic jack. While reference is made to this embodiment throughout the specification, such 15 reference should not be seen as limiting as other preferred embodiments incorporate a motor driven lifting unit.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the hydraulic jack is mounted to a bracket on the lower frame of the trolley. The bracket provides additional height and support for the hydraulic jack. However, 20 in other embodiments of the present invention the hydraulic jack may be mounted directly onto the lower frame of the trolley.

The bracket also enables the hydraulic jack to be positioned forward of the back member. This arrangement is required to balance the lifting forces of the hydraulic jack against a load supported on the supporting 25 apparatus of the trolley. Nevertheless, this slightly forward position of the 16 272 hydraulic jack still allows the lower and upper frame of the trolley to be inserted under and over a bed or toilet.

Preferably, the hydraulic jack is centrally positioned along the back member of the lower frame of the trolley. This central positioning 5 enables the lifting force of the hydraulic jack to be applied to the central axis of the load bearing upper frame, for maximum efficiency of lifting.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the hydraulic arm of t the hydraulic jack is raised and lowered via a lever. However, in other embodiments of the present invention the hydraulic arm of the 10 hydraulic jack may be otherwise raised and lowered, ; uch as by use of a foot controlled pedal, via electric circuitry, be motor driven and so forth.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the hydraulic jack raises and lowers the upper frame of the trolley relative to the lower frame. The upper frame is raised and lowered relative to the lower frame 15 to enable the upper frame and the supporting apparatus attached to the upper frame to be raised up to and above the level of a bed. Raising the upper frame at least up to the height of the bed enables a person to be more easily transferred between the trolley, and a bed.

Preferably, the upper frame of the trolley also incorporates a substantially 20 vertical back panel. Incorporating a back panel into the upper frame not only provides additional strength to the upper frame, but also provides support to a portion of the body of the bed ridden person being carried by the trolley. However, in other embodiments of the present invention the back panel may be otherwise removably mounted to the upper frame, or 25 may be substantially contoured to complement the contours of a person's body, and so forth. 17 ITc ) 0 In preferred embodiments of the present invention the supporting apparatus of the trolley incorporates three substantially separate, but interconnected portions. The three portions comprise two side portions, and a central portion. Having three substantially separate, but inter 5 connectable panels enables the supporting apparatus to achieve a range of configurations to support the person being carried by the trolley.

The central portion of the supporting apparatus, attached to the upper frame, is fixed in a substantially horizontal plane. Having the central portion of the supporting apparatus maintained in a substantially 10 horizontal plane, enables a bed ridden person to be more easily loaded onto or off the trolley.

For ease of reference, the portions of the supporting apparatus shall now be referred to as side panels and central panel, although use of these terms is not intended to be limiting.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the two side panels are each pivot illy attached to the central panel by hinges which enable the side panels to be moved through a vertical plane to achieve a range of elevations between being folded down along side the trolley; or folded up substantially perpendicular to the central panel; or folded across and over 20 the central panel for storage.

Preferably, the two side panels have substantially the same, or similar dimensions as the central panel. Having the two side panels substantially the same dimensions as the central panel enables the three panels of the supporting apparatus to optimally support a person being 25 transported by the trolley. Further, when all three panels are aligned in a substantially horizontal plane to a bed ridden person is able to lie flat on IS 272 o Q the supporting apparatus, with a minimum of discomfort and be supported along substantially their entire body length. In addition, having the two side panels substantially the same dimensions as the central panel enables the two side panels to be adjusted relative to both the 5 central panel and the other side panel to configure the supporting apparatus into the shape of a chair, with either side panel operating as a back support, or both side panels operating as side supports to a person sitting on the trolley. t In preferred embodiments of the present invention the side panels are 10 able to be maintained in a substantially horizontal plane with the central panel via bracing apparatus. For ease of reference the bracing apparatus shall now be referred to as a bracket, although it should be appreciated that use of this term is not intended to be limiting.

Preferably, the bracket capable of supporting the side panels of the trolley 15 in a substantially horizontal plane with the central panel of the trolley is pivotally attached at one end to a vertical member of the trolley.

The opposite end of the bracket preferably incorporates a hook which is hooked over a pin which extends from a portion of the side panel of the trolley. When a side panel is required to be raised or lowered, the bracket 20 is unhooked from the side panel. However, in other embodiments of the present invention any other suitable means of attaching the bracket to the side panel may be used.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the central panel incorporates an aperture. Having the central panel incorporating an 25 aperture enables the trolley to be used to transport a bed ridden patient to use a toilet, without having to move the person off the trolley. 19 27; i~fc However, the central panel of other preferred embodiments of the present invention may lack an aperture. Instead, the arrangement of elongated side panels, in combination with a central panel of reduced dimensions, may result in an arrangement such that a gap exists between the two 5 side panels. This gap essentially operates the same as would an aperture in the central panel described above.

Preferably, the panels of the supporting apparatus incorporate gripping apparatus. Having gripping apparatus incorporated into the panels of the supporting apparatus enables the bed to be gripped during loading 10 and unloading of a bed ridden person onto or off the trolley, without the trolley moving away from the side of the bed.

Preferably, the gripping apparatus of the panels of the supporting apparatus consist of a downward paddle on the leading edge of one or more panels, which grips the bedding when the upper frame is lowered 15 onto the bed.

However, in other embodiments of the present invention additional paddles may be situated behind the leading paddle, and appropriately spaced from that leading paddle, to provide a better grip. Similarly, other suitable gripping apparatus may be incorporated into one, or more of the 20 panels of the supporting apparatus.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention an optional arm rail may be added to the central panel, or vertical members of the trolley, to further support a person being carried by the trolley.

The arm rail may be attached by bolts to whichever portions of the trolley 25 it is connected to; or the arm rail may be otherwise suitably attached, such as by being simply fitted into guides or slits appropriately positioned 27289 on the respective structures on the trolley to which it is to be attached, and so forth.

Further, attachment of the arm rail to the central panel and one of the side panels may be reversible to enable a bed-ridden person to be loaded 5 onto the trolley from either side of the bed as required.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention the trolley is made from metal. Metal is durable, hard wearing, capable of withstanding a f range of weights, and may be moulded, cut and welded to the required shape. However, other embodiments of the present invention may be 10 made of other suitable materials such as fLbreglass, and so forth. In addition, the trolley may incorporate particular features which may be made of other suitable materials. For example, the castors may be made of thermoplastics material, or rubber; the hand grips of the handlebar may be made of rubber, cork, or thermoplastics material; the foot supports 15 may be made of thermoplastics materials, as may be the arm rests, and so forth. brief description of drawings Further aspects of the present invention will become .apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only and with 20 reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a diagrammatic front view of the transporting apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 2 is a diagrammatic perspective view of the transporting 25 apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present 21 27289 invention, and Figure 3 is a diagrammatic perspective view of the transporting apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Best Modes for Carrying ottt the i With reference to the Figures by way of example only, there is provided transporting apparatus generally indicated by arrow 1, capable of being operated by one person, for transporting a bed ridden person between a bed and a variety of locations.

The transporting apparatus 1 includes a lower frame 2, which incorporates multiple, lockable, castors 3. The castors 3 are capable of moving the transporting apparatus 1 across a surface.

The transporting apparatus 1 also includes lifting apparatus 4 capable of lifting an upper frame 5 through a range of elevations.

The upper frame 5 incorporates adjustable supporting apparatus 6, capable of supporting an otherwise bed ridden person in a variety of positions. At least one portion 7 of the supporting apparatus 6 includes an aperture 8.

The supporting apparatus 6 includes at least one gripping apparatus 9 20 capable of maintaining the transporting apparatus 1 in close contact with the side of the bed.

For ease of reference the transporting apparatus 1 and lifting apparatus 4 shall now be referred to the trolley 1 and hydraulic jack 4 respectively. 22 27 However, it should be appreciated that use of these terms is not intended to be seen as limiting.

As illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, the lower frame 2 of the trolley 1 is preferably U-shaped. This U-shape enables the trolley 1 to straddle a 5 toilet bowl, a table support and so forth.

The U-shaped lower frame 2 is comprised of two side members 10 being attached to, and connected by, a substantially horizontal back member 11. t The back member 11 is substantially perpendicular to each of the two side members 10.

In cross-section, the lower frame 2 is substantially square-shaped 12. These square-shaped side members 10 and back member 11 of the lower frame 2 contribute to the strength of the trolley 1.

In addition, the lower frame 2 is further strengthened by additional brace supports 13 located between the side members 10 of the lower frame 2 and 15 the back member 11 of the lower frame 2.

The lower frame 2 of the trolley 1 incorporates the castors 3, a hydraulic jack 4 and two vertical members 14.

In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the lower frame 2 of the trolley 1 incorporates six castors 3 - three castors 3 per side member 20 10. Incorporation of multiple castors 3, contributes to the ease of movement of the trolley 1 across carpet and other floorings or surfaces. The castors 3 of the trolley 1 are capable of finding any direction which also contributes to the ease of movement of the trolley 1. 23 272 Preferably, the rear castors 3 of the trolley 1 are capable of being locked to ensure that the trolley 1 is maintained in a stable position during loading and unloading of a bed ridden person onto and off the trolley 1.

Figure 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present 5 invention. The lower frame 2 of the trolley 1 remains the same as in Figures 1 and 2. However, the lower frame 2 in Figure 3 also incorporates two foot supports 15, which enable an operator of the trolley 1 to stabilise the trolley 1. The two foot supports 15, are situated at either end of the back member 11 of the lower frame 2.

The foot supports 15 are substantially angular, such that one end of the foot support 15 is attached to the back member 11 of the lower frame 2, while the other end of the foot support 15 is substantially free, and in line with the longitudinal axis of the back member 11 of the lower frame 2. This arrangement of the foot support 15 enables a bed-ridden person to 15 use the foot support 15 during transportation on the trolley 1. This keeps the person's feet in a safe position, preventing contact with doorways and furniture. The person's foot could otherwise be hurt without foot supports. Further, the arrangement of the foot supports enables an operator's foot to be easily placed into and removed from within the foot 20 support 15 should the operator need a point of extra leverage when trying to manoeuvre the trolley.

The hydraulic jack 4 is mounted to a bracket 16 on the lower frame 2 of the trolley 1. The bracket 16 provides additional height and support for the hydraulic jack 4. 24 27289 The hydraulic jack 4 is centrally positioned along and slightly forward of the back member 11 of the lower frame 2 of the trolley 1. This positioning enables the lifting force of the hydraulic jack 4 to be applied to the central axis of the load bearing upper frame 5, for maximum efficiency of lifting, 5 and operates to counterbalance weight applied to the supporting apparatus 6 of the trolley 1.

The hydraulic jack 4 is capable of raising and lowering the upper frame 5 f of the trolley 1 relative to the lower frame 2 (as illustrated in Figure 2 by arrow 24). Accordingly, the upper frame 5 and supporting apparatus 6 10 may be raised up to and above the level of a bed to enable a person to be moved between the trolley 1 and a bed with ease.

The hydraulic arm or ram 17 (as shown in Figure 3) of the hydraulic jack 4, may be raised and lowered via a lever 18.

The two vertical members 14 of the trolley 1 may either be fixedly attached 15 to either end of the back member 11 of the lower frame 2 of the trolley 1 with the upper frame 5 being movable vertically up and down the vertical members 14 via the hydraulic jack 4, or (as shown in Figures 1 to 3) fixed protrusions 19 may extend vertically from the back -member 11 of the lower frame 2, and slide telescopically into complementary cavities of the 20 vertical members 14 of the upper frame 5, such that the vertical members 14 also move up and down when the hydraulic arm of the hydraulic jack 4 is raised or lowered.

The vertical members 14 operate to support the upper frame 5 and the supporting apparatus 6 of the trolley 1. 27 The vertical members 14 may also incorporate a handlebar 20, as shown in Figure 3. The handlebar 20 is a single, straight bar 20 attached at 21 to each of the vertical members 14. The handlebar 20 also includes hand grips 22 placed at each end of the handlebar 20.

The hand grips 22 enable the operator of the trolley 1 to more firmly grip the handlebar 20, thereby ensuring greater control of the trolley 1 and accordingly, the safety of a bed ridden person being transported on the trolley 1.

The structure of the handlebar 20 also enables a person being carried on 10 the trolley to grip the inner section of the handlebar 20 (the section between each of the handgrips 22).

The upper frame 5 of the trolley 1 also incorporates essentially vertical back panel 23, along with a substantially horizontal central portion 7 of the supporting apparatus 6. In Figure 3, additional support is provided 15 for the supporting apparatus 6 via a triangular gusset 34 which contributes to supporting the weight of a person carried on the trolley 1.

The supporting apparatus 6 of the trolley 1 includes three substantially separate but interconnected portions. The three portions of the supporting apparatus 6 comprise two side panels 25 and a central panel 20 7.

In Figures 1 and 2, the two side panels are each pivotally attached to the central panel by hinges 26, which enable the side panels to be moved through a vertical plane, illustrated by arrow 27 to achieve a range of elevations. The range of elevations can be seen in Figure 2 where the side 25 panels 25 may be folded down along side the trolley (as indicated by arrow 26 2 •'HOC 32, or folded up substantially perpendicular to the central panel (as shown by arrow 29 in Figure 2), or folded across the central panel 7 of the trolley 1 for storage.

However, in other preferred embodiments (as shown in Figure 3) the side 5 panels 25 may be fixedly attached to the central panel 7. In Figure 3, the side panels 25 are substantially angled towards the central panel 7 to provide maximum support for a person supported by the supporting apparatus 6 having that cdnfiguration.

In Figures 1 and 2, the two side panels 25 have substantially the same 10 dimensions as the central panel 7. Accordingly, when aligned in a substantially horizontal plane (as shown in Figure 1) the two side panels 25 aligned with the central panel 7 enables a person to be optimally supported when a person is first moved onto the trolley 1 from the bed and is in a substantially flat, horizontal position. Further, when a person is 15 being transported by the trolley 1, on the supporting apparatus 6, the two side panels 25 are able to be adjusted relative to the central panel 7 to configure the supporting apparatus 6 into the shape of a chair (as partially illustrated in Figure 2).

When the two side panels 25 are adjusted relative to the central panel 7, to 20 configure the supporting apparatus 6 into the shape of a chair, one side panel 25 may operate as a back support (as shown in Figure 2) with the fixed back panel 23 operating as a side support to a person sitting on the trolley 1.

Either of the two side panels 25 may be raised to operate as a back support, 25 depending upon the orientation of a person on the supporting apparatus 6 (as shown in Figure 2). 27 27 o The side panels 25 of the supporting apparatus 6 are able to be maintained in a substantially horizontal plane with the central panel 7 via a bracket 27.

The bracket 27 is pivotally attached at one end 28 (such as via a clevis 5 joint), to a vertical member 14 of the trolley 1. The opposite end of the bracket 27 incorporates a hook, which is hooked over a pin extending from the side panel 25 of the trolley 1. When the side panel 25 is required to be raised or lowered, the bracket 27 is unhooked from the side panel 25.

The central panel 7 of the supporting apparatus 6 also incorporates an 10 aperture 8, which enables the trolley 1 to be used to transport a bed ridden patient to use a toilet, without having to move the person off the trolley 1.

However, in other preferred embodiments of the present invention (as shown in Figure 3) the central panel 7 may lack an aperture 8. Instead, the arrangement of elongated side panels 25, illustrated in Figure 3, in 15 combination with a central panel 7 of reduced dimensions, may result in an arrangement such that a gap 29 exists between the two side panels 25. This gap 29 serves the same function as would the aperture 8 in the central panel 7 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2.

The supporting apparatus 6 also incorporates gripping apparatus 9. The 20 gripping apparatus 9 are located at the leading edge of the side panels 25 (in Figures 1 to 3), as well as the leading edge of the central panel 7.

The gripping apparatus 9 enables the bed, or bedding to be gripped during loading and unloading of a bed ridden person onto or off the trolley 1, without the trolley 1 moving away from the side of the bed. 28 27 L. 0 Secondary gripping apparatus 33 may be fitted behind the first gripping apparatus 9 to further improve the gripping action on the bedding.

The gripping apparatus 9 essentially consists of a downward paddle 9 on the leading edge of the panels 25 and 7 of the supporting apparatus 6.

To ensure greater support of a person carried on the trolley 1, an optional arm rail 30 (as shown in Figure 2) may be attached to the trolley 1. f This arm rail 30 also incorporates a hook to hook around the gripping apparatus 9 of the side panel 25 which has been raised to a vertical position as a back support. By hooking the arm rail 30 onto the gripping 10 apparatus 9 of the raised side panel 25, the raised side panel 25 is retained in a position as a back support.

The arm rail 30 can be interchangeably fitted to the panels of the supporting apparatus 6 to correspond with the positioning of the person on the trolley 1 which in turn is dependent on the side of a bed from which 15 the person is transferred onto the trolley 1.

The trolley 1 enables a single care giver to transport a heavy person between the bed and a flushing toilet, meal table, and se forth, as required. Embodiments of the trolley 1 shown in Figures 1, 2 and 3 enable a person to be loaded onto the trolley 1 from either side of the bed.

In some embodiments the panels of the supporting apparatus 6 and the arm rail 30 may be upholstered for added comfort.

The dimensions of the trolley 1 are such that the trolley 1 is able to easily be moved throughout a standard house or rest home. 29 27 Q The trolley 1, illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, enables a person with limited control over legs and torso, to be loaded onto the trolley 1 from either side of a bed. The person would travel side saddle on the trolley 1. The detachable arm rail 30 provides additional support to the person.

For trips other than going to the toilet, the aperture 8 may be covered with a cover plate, to improve the comfort of the person sitting on the trolley 1.

When loading the trolley 1, the upper frame 5 is raised relative to the lower frame 2. The trolley 1 is then pushed towards the bed, such that the lower frame 2 passes below the bed, and the upper frame 5 is 10 substantially over the top of the bed.

The upper frame 5 is then lowered onto the bed, where the gripping apparatus 9 and secondary gripping apparatus 33 engages with the bedding to contribute to the stability of the trolley 1 during loading of the person from the bed onto the trolley 1.

The person is transferred onto the supporting apparatus 6 of the trolley 1, by rolling the person onto the trolley 1.

The upper frame 5 is then raised relative to the bed via the hydraulic jack 4 to enable the trolley 1 to be moved away from the bed. The person lying on the supporting apparatus 6 of the trolley 1 is then manoeuvred into a 20 sitting position by adjustment of the side panels 25 of the supporting apparatus 6.

The arm rail 30 is then added to the trolley to provide extra support for the person. 27 o The trolley 1 illustrated in Figure 3 enables a person with more mobility and ability to control parts of the body, to be transported around.

When a person is loaded onto the embodiment of the trolley 1 shown in Figure 3, the person is initially raised relative to the bed by being 5 positioned onto a pillow. The upper frame 5 of the trolley 1 is raised relative to the lower frame 2 of the trolley 1 via the hydraulic jack 4.

As the trolley 1 is pushed towards the bed, the lower frame 2 passes beneath the bed, and the elongated side panels 25 of the supporting apparatus 6 pass over the bed on either side of the pillow on which the 10 person is sitting.

The upper frame 5 is then lowered onto the bed, by adjusting the hydraulic jack 4. The gripping apparatus 9 and secondary gripping apparatus 33, of the elongated side panels 25, grip the bedding to stabilise the trolley 1 during the process of loading the person onto the trolley 1.

The person is then required to grip the handlebar 20, while at the same time the care giver slides the person from the pillow onto the supporting apparatus 6.

The persons feet are then placed onto or within the foot supports 15.

The upper frame 5 is then raised relative to the bed via the hydraulic jack 20 4 to enab' e the trolley 1 to be moved away from the bed.

Unloading of the person from the trolley back onto the bed is achieved by reversing the order of the steps described above. 31 2728 Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof as defined in the appended claims. 32

Claims (4)

1. 272899 WHAT I CLAIM IS: 1. Transporting apparatus capable of being operated by one person, for transporting a bed ridden person between a bed and a variety of locations, wherein the transporting apparatus includes: a lower frame incorporating lockable, motion-facilitating apparatus capable of moving the transporting apparatus across a surface, lifting apparatus capable of lifting an upper frame through a range of elevations, said upper frame incorporating adjustable supporting apparatus capable of supporting the bed ridden persotot^e$kj^£p^d$£fy proximity to a bed.
2. 2. Transporting apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein the lower frame of the transporting apparatus is substantially U-shaped.
3. 3. Transporting apparatus as claimed in claim 2 wherein the substantially U-shaped lower frame is comprised of two side members attached to, and connected by, a substantially horizontal back member, the arrangement being such that the back member is substantially perpendicular to each of the two side members.
4. 4 A transporting apparatus as claimed in an one of the preceding claims wherein the lower frame of the transporting apparatus 20 JAN 1998 there also being included at least one gripping a ' r engaging with and maintaining the supporting apparatus inTlTrae 33 272899 incorporates multiple motion-facilitating apparata, stabilising at least one apparatus and at least one vertical member. Transporting apparatus as claimed in claim 4 wherein the lower frame of the transporting apparatus incorporates six motion-facilitating apparata, such that there are three motion-facilitating apparata per each side member. Transporting apparatus as claimed in either claim 4 or claim 5 wherein at least two of the motion-facilitating apparata are capable of being locked to prevent movement of the transporting apparatus. Transporting apparatus as claimed in claim 6 wherein motion facilitating apparata towards the rear of the transporting apparatus are capable of being locked to maintain the transporting apparatus in a strJble position during the loading and unloading of a bed ridden person onto and off the transporting apparatus. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 7 wherein the motion-facilitating apparata are castors. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 7 wherein the lower frame incorporates two stabilising apparata. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 4 through 9 wherein a stabilising apparatus comprises a foot support capable of contributing to the stabilisation of a person being carried on the transporting apparatus. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 4 through 10 wherein the stabilising apparatus assists to enable the operator of the transporting apparatus to stabilise the transporting 34 272899 apparatus during unloading, loading, and manoeuvring of the transporting apparatus. 12. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the lower frame of the transporting apparatus incorporates two vertical members. 13. Transporting apparatus as claimed in claim 12 wherein the vertical members are telescopically attached to portions of the t lower frame. 14. Transporting apparatus as claimed in either claim 12 or claim 13 wherein the vertical members of the lower frame of the transporting apparatus operate to support the upper frame and the supporting apparatus of the transporting apparatus. 15. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 14 wherein the vertical member(s) incorporates steering apparatus. 16. Transporting apparatus as claimed in claim 15 wherein the steering apparatus is a handle bar. 17. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the lifting apparatus of the transporting apparatus is mounted on the lower frame. 18. Transporting apparatus as claimed in claim 17 wherein the lifting apparatus is centrally positioned along the back member of the lower frame of the transporting apparatus to apply lifting force to the central axis of the load bearing upper frame for maximum efficiency of lifting of the upper frame and to counter-balance a 35 272 weight applied to the supporting apparatus of the transporting apparatus. Transporting apparatus as claimed in claim 18 wherein the lifting apparatus is capable of raising and lowering the upper frame of the transporting apparatus relative to the lower frame of the transporting apparatus to enable the upper frame to be raised up to and above the level of a bed. Transporting apparatus as claimed in either claim 18 or claim 19 wherein the lifting apparatus can be operated manually, hydraulically, or be motorised. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 20 wherein the lifting apparatus is a jack. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the upper frame of the transporting apparatus incorporates a substantially vertical back panel to support a portion of the body of a person being carried by the transporting apparatus. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the supporting apparatus of the upper frame comprises three substantially separate, but interconnected portions. Transporting apparatus as claimed in claim 23 wherein the substantially separate, interconnected portions of the supporting apparatus comprise at least two side portions and a central portion. 36 272899 Transporting apparatus as claimed in claim 24 wherein the side portions of the supporting apparatus are able to be moved through a range of elevations to achieve a range of configurations to more fully support a person being carried by the transporting apparatus. Transporting apparatus as claimed in either claim 24 or claim 25 wherein the side portions of the supporting apparatus are able to be maintained in a substantially horizontal plane with the central 9 portion in one configuration, via bracing apparatus. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 23 to 26 wherein the central portion of the supporting apparatus incorporates an aperture. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 23 to 26 wherein the central portion of the supporting apparatus is of reduced dimensions, relative to the side portions, such that a gap exists between the central portion and the side portions. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the supporting apparatus incorporates gripping apparatus to grip a bed during unloading and loading of a bed ridden person onto or off the transporting apparatus without the transporting apparatus moving away from the bed. Transporting apparatus as claimed in claim 29 wherein the gripping apparatus comprises at least one downwardly configured paddle positioned towards the leading edge of either or both the side portion(s) and central portion of the supporting apparatus. 37 2728 Transporting apparatus as claimed in either claim 29 or claim 30 wherein the gripping apparatus grips the bed when the upper frame incorporating the supporting apparatus is lowered onto a bed. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the supporting apparatus of the transporting apparatus is able to receive an optional arm rail to further help support a person being carried by the transporting apparatus. Transporting apparatus as claimed in claim 32 wherein the optional arm rail is attached to either or both the central portion and the vertical member(s) of the transporting apparatus after a person is loaded onto the transporting apparatus. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the apparatus can be configured such that the person carried on the transporting apparatus is able to be transported in a number of positions including sitting side saddle, facing the direction of travel, or facing backwards to the direction of travel of the transporting apparatus. Transporting apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the dimensions of the transporting apparatus enable the transporting apparatus to access a variety of locations within a standard house, rest home, or hospital. A method of using transporting apparatus for transporting a bed ridden person between a bed and a variety of locations, substantially as described above including the steps of: 38 2728 operating lifting apparatus of the transporting apparatus to lift an upper frame of the transporting apparatus relative to a lower frame; and moving the transporting apparatus alongside a bed, via use of motion-facilitating apparata such that the lower frame extends beneath the bed and the upper frame extends over the bed; and locking the multiple motion-facilitating apparatus to prevent movement of the transporting apparatus; and enabling at least one gripping apparatus of the upper frame to grip the bed thereby maintaining the transporting apparatus in close proximity to the bed; and loading the bed ridden person onto supporting apparatus of the upper frame, and unlocking the motion-facilitating apparatus and raising the gripping apparatus to enable the transporting apparatus to be moved away from the bed; and adjusting the supporting apparatus of the upper frame to a position for transporting the bed ridden person to a variety of locations, after ■which returning the bed ridden person to the bed by repeating steps (a) to (d) inclusive above and characterised by the transporting apparatus being capable of being operated by one person. 39 2 *7 n i c a 37. A method as claimed in claim 38 wherein a person initially loaded onto the substantially horizontal supporting apparatus is able to be manoeuvred into a Bitting position by adjustment of the side portions of the supporting apparatus into the shape of a chair. 38. A method as claimed in either claim 36 or claim 37 in which said transporting apparatus is as claimed in any one of claims 1 through 35. 39. A transporting apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to and as illustrated by the accompanying drawings. 40. A method of using a transporting apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to and as illustrated by the accompanying drawings. GARTH MERVYN SPOONER by his Attorneys END OF CLAIMS 'finuaa1 JAMES & WET,1,8 v 29 AUG 1996 './ 40