Life Cart
Life Cart
Description
The concept of the “LIFE CART” is an improved hospital cart that could more easily be moved by one person. This ergonomic product could enhance patient safety and free up other healthcare workers for enhanced efficiency.
The “LIFE CART” consists of a medical cart designed to be operated by one healthcare worker. It is built on a chassis similar to that of a zero-turn mower. As such, it can maneuver within tight spaces to reduce collisions that may harm patient stability. A lightweight, durable, forklift system features a portable bed brace that allows patients to be evenly lifted or placed upon the bed without strain. It features power steering and a standing platform that allows healthcare workers to effectively control the bed while transporting the patient.
The “LIFE CART” incorporates various monitoring equipment that can be employed with a console. Included is an EKG, defibrillator, and means to monitor blood pressure, temperature and pulse. This practical cart also contains counterweight sensors that are used during extended lifting away from the cart to ensure the stability of the patient. LED lighting as well as a traffic audio monitor are equipped to alert other healthcare workers that the patient is in transit. The “LIFE CART” also incorporates a lightweight, durable fork system that extends outward similar to a forklift in order to connect to a body board that rests beneath the patient’s mattress. A window guard provides a barrier between the patient and transporter in order to reduce unnecessary exposure to airborne microbes. The body board, which can be positioned beneath any mattress, provides a slot entry for the forks to be inserted or retracted for proper and safe transportation of the patient and a smooth steering column that allows for enhanced control while steering the cart. The “LIFE CART” should not be moved at a high rate of speed, but at a steady, controlled movement in order to ensure safety.
In addition to the basic model of the “LIFE CART”, other design versions will be of use within surgical centers and for military missions. The surgical center model will be produced from a light weight and durable material that will be constructed for easy maneuverability within a surgical setting, therefore taking up less space. Surgical materials will easily be sanitized, within minutes. It is possible to tailor versions for surgical centers to suit the physician’s specific needs. Furthermore, the “LIFE CART” is constructed in sections that will allow this product to be broken down if the physician were to be transferred to a different facility. This would permit transportation of their equipment to their next destination without hassle.
The surgical center model of the “LIFE CART” contains autoclave drawers for convenient and organized storage of various surgical tools and equipment. Each drawer provides a systemic approach to keeping the tools and equipment sanitary during surgeries. As such, it reduces cross contamination during difficult medical procedures in which personnel work in tight spaces. LED lighting could be included and adjusted to suit the needs of the physician to provide the clearest view during medical procedures.
The version of the “LIFE CART” for military missions, (RETRIEVER), consists of a multi-terrain chassis system that features a durable as well as flexible suspension system that can be maneuvered upon difficult terrain in any combat setting. Full rubber tires are incorporated to reduce replacement issues. This model features a counter stabilizing system that ensures that the wounded soldier can remain as stable as possible when being retrieved from the field. In addition, an oxygen capsule ensures that the soldier will be enclosed within a free-flowing chamber so that he/she may receive a fresh supply of oxygen needed to maintain life sustainability until further evaluation and proper medical attention can be administered.
The military model of the “LIFE CART” features a bulletproof shield that provides additional cover for the soldier being extracted from a hostile environment. In addition, it contains robotic lifting arms designed to extend and get under the soldier to create some space between the soldier and the ground in order to slide a body board beneath for removal. A strapping mechanism secures the soldier in the correct position for transport.
Function and Appealing Features:
The “LIFE CART” fulfills the need for an improved means to transport and transfer patients in various healthcare facilities, surgical centers, and on military missions. The appealing features of the “LIFE CART” is its convenience, practical, versatility, and ease of use. This improved cart can be employed in various locations to provide enhanced patient safety especially in various areas with limited space. In addition, one person can operate the “LIFE CART”. This can free up other healthcare workers for more important patient needs. It may also allow bedding to be easily changed.
The “LIFE CART” contains power steering and a standing platform. An incorporated window guard provides a barrier between the patient and the transporter to reduce exposure to airborne microbes.
The military retriever model of the “LIFE CART” ensures that the wounded soldier will remain as stable as possible. This model will also feature the capability to be controlled remotely on the battlefield in an effort to ensure the safety of fellow soldiers.
Variation:
The potential exists for varying the production of the “LIFE CART” in ways which could make it more appealing to a wider range of end users. This could include producing this product in various sizes including models that may accommodate bariatric patients. We envision the “LIFE CART” being produced in a standard model, surgical center version, as well as in a model for retrieving soldiers on military missions.
Producibility:
Since the “LIFE CART” represents a modification of an existing product, it is readily producible.
The frame of the “LIFE CART” may be produced from durable, die-cast metal components or a durable, injection molded plastic. The mattress is manufactured from cloth and foam. The “LIFE CART” features a standard motor, the specially designed chassis, and the power steering column. Rubber wheels can be incorporated.
Packaging:
The “LIFE CART” is packaged in a corrugated cardboard, self-shipping box. The box is imprinted in one or more colors. A small pamphlet is included in each package giving detailed information for use, as well as warranty information. Cardboard inserts are inserted into the package to protect the product. Quantities of the packaged product are then palletized for the final shipment..
