LOCATION DETECTION SYSTEM FOR A PATIENT HANDLING DEVICE

Location detection systems are provided for determining the location of patient handling devices in a healthcare facility. In one embodiment, the location detection system comprises a locator fixed in each zone of each room in the facility. The locator includes at least one infrared transmitter for transmitting a unique location identifier to a receiver mounted on the patient handling device. A communication module transmits the unique location identifier from the patient handling device to a network utilized by the healthcare facility for the management of patient, personnel, and equipment information. A processing station located on the network processes the unique location identifier to ultimately determine the room and zone location of the patient handling device. The processing station may include a graphical user interface on a touch-screen display for reviewing and manipulating the location information.

Movable siderail apparatus for use with a patient support apparatus

The present invention provides a movable siderail apparatus (5) for use with a patient support apparatus. The siderail apparatus (5) is configured to move the siderail body (14) associated therewith in a clock-type swing movement relative to the patient support apparatus. Two or more support arms (20) are disposed between the intermediate frame or the deck support of the patient support apparatus and the siderail body (14), each support arm (20) having two pivots (30, 40), a first (40) rotatably connecting it to the intermediate frame or deck support and a second (30) rotatably connecting it to the siderail body (14), thereby enabling the siderail body (14) to be raised or lowered vertically by a rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the patient support apparatus. In a first preferred embodiment, the angles defined between each support arm (20) and a lower edge of the siderail (9) are substantially obtuse during rotational movement of the siderail (9). In a second ...

Patient support apparatus with lift system

A patient support apparatus includes a base, a patient support, and a lift mechanism wherein the lift mechanism is coupled to the patient support by at least one upper pivot connection. The upper pivot connection includes an elongated slot and a pin captured in the elongated slot to form a sliding pivot axis, with the sliding pivot axis traveling along the elongated slot when the lift mechanism raises or lowers the patient support.

Diagnostic and control system for a patient support

The present invention provides a diagnostic and control system for a patient support, wherein the patient support includes one or more of a plurality of electronic elements. Such elements may include load sensors, tilt sensors, actuators for adjusting patient support angles, in addition to other electronic elements. The diagnostic and control system can enable the specific control of each of these electronic element for desired operation thereof and further can enable monitoring of the operating conditions of these electronic elements and additional patient support conditions.

Hospital patient support

The patient support with a head end and a foot end comprises a lying surface supported by a frame system. It also comprises a pair of head end siderails, a pair of foot end siderails, a headboard, a footboard, a power system and a communication system. The frame system comprises a lying surface support moveably connected to a load frame by an articulation system providing means for pivoting sections of the lying surface support relative to the load frame, a head end support arm pivotally attached to the head end of the load frame, a mobile frame translationally attached to foot end of the load frame, an intermediate frame being operationally connected to the load frame by a plurality of load cells and movably connected to a base frame by an elevation system, the elevation system providing a means for raising and lowering the intermediate frame relative to a base frame, the base frame being supported on the floor by a plurality of caster wheels, including a drive wheel operatively connected to assist in movement of the patient support. A communication system is also provided to communicate with and control various functions of the patient support.

LOCKING MECHANISM FOR SLIDING DOOR SYSTEM

The locking mechanism is adapted to a door system having a door unit slidably mounted to a door frame to open and close by sliding longitudinally along the door frame. The locking mechanism includes: a pivoting member pivotally mounted to one of the door frame and the door unit for pivoting about a pivot axis, and a hook member spaced apart from the pivot axis such that the hook member can pivot about the pivot axis via the pivoting member; and a guide member secured to the other one of the door frame and the door unit, the guide member having a channel formed therein to receive the hook member when the pivoting member is moved toward the guide by said sliding of the door, and subsequently maintain engagement with the hook member.

Location detection system for a patient handling device

A location detection system for a facility includes a patient handling device with a communication module with a unique ID, a locator fixed relative to the handling device for transmitting a unique location identifier corresponding to the location of the handling device, and a receiver mounted to the patient device for receiving the unique location identifier. A processing station remote from the handling device and the locator receives the unique location identifier and the unique ID and further correlates the unique ID with a patient supported by the handling device wherein the processing station can track the handling device and the patient supported thereby such that the location of the patient and handling device can be determined and monitored remotely from the handling device.

Ergonomic control apparatus for a patient support apparatus

The present invention provides a control apparatus that can be ergonomically and movably connected to a patient support apparatus. The control apparatus comprises a control module which is operatively coupled to the patient support apparatus and can provide a means for controlling the plurality of patient support apparatus functions. The control module is adapted for connection to a housing and the housing is movably connected to the patient support apparatus by a coupling device. The coupling device enables the relative movement of the housing and as such the control module relative to the patient support apparatus. In this manner access to the control module, and therefore to the functionality of the patient support apparatus, can be provided independent of the configuration of the patient support apparatus.

Hospital bed

A patient support apparatus includes a deck, a plurality of side rails, a control panel, and a plurality of subsystems, such as a bed exit system that detects when a patient may exit from the support apparatus, or a lifting mechanism to raise and lower the deck. A controller is in communication with the control panel and is adapted to monitor conditions regarding the side rails and/or the other subsystems. At least one lamp is also provided on the patient support apparatus that is adapted to be illuminated in a first manner when a plurality of monitored conditions remain in a desired state, and in a second manner when at least one of the plurality of monitored conditions changes to an undesired state.

PATIENT SUPPORT WITH IMPROVED CONTROL

A patient support apparatus includes a patient support surface, a plurality of caster wheels supporting the patient support surface on a floor or ground surface, a brake for manually braking at least one caster wheel of the plurality of caster wheels, and a handle or pedal for manually operating the brake, with the handle or pedal at least having a brake position. The patient support apparatus also includes an electrical actuator configured to couple to the brake and to selectively output a driving force and a user interface in communication with the electrical actuator. In response to input at the user interface, the electrical actuator generating the driving force to actuate the brake to thereby brake the at least one caster wheel, and wherein the driving force of the actuator moves the handle or pedal to the brake positon when the actuator actuates the manually operable brake to brake the caster wheel.

HOSPITAL BED

A method of actuating a manually operable brake on a caster wheel of a patient support apparatus to stop motion of the apparatus includes electrically coupling the control system of the patient support to an actuator at the patient support, generating actuating signals with the control system based on input at the patient support apparatus, transmitting the actuating signals to the actuator to thereby actuate the actuator to output a driving force, and mechanically coupling the driving force of the actuator with the manually operable brake to thereby actuate the manually operable brake and thereby brake the caster wheels.

LOCATION DETECTION SYSTEM FOR A PATIENT HANDLING DEVICE

A location detection system for a facility includes a patient handling device with a communication module with a unique ID, a locator fixed relative to the handling device for transmitting a unique location identifier corresponding to the location of the handling device, and a receiver mounted to the patient device for receiving the unique location identifier. A processing station remote from the handling device and the locator receives the unique location identifier and the unique ID and further correlates the unique ID with a patient supported by the handling device wherein the processing station can track the handling device and the patient supported thereby such that the location of the patient and handling device can be determined and monitored remotely from the handling device. 1. A location detection system for a facility , said location detection system comprising:a patient handling device having a support surface for supporting a patient and being mobile for positioning at a location in the facility, said patient handling device further having circuitry for controlling one or more sensing, motor or therapy functions of said patient handling device and having a unique patient handling device ID, and said patient handling device including a network interface;a location transmitting device spaced from the patient handling device for communicating a unique location identifier corresponding to the location of said patient handling device to said patient handling device;wherein said circuitry is operable to send patient handling device status data, and said circuitry is operable to send said unique patient handling device ID and the unique location identifier from said patient handing device by way of said network interface.2. A location detection system as set forth in claim 1 , further comprising a remote computer that is operable to receive said unique patient handling device ID and the unique location identifier from said network interface and is operable to ...

Patient support apparatus with braking system

A patient support apparatus includes a patient support surface, a manually operable brake operatively associated with the patient support surface, a manual brake activation handle or pedal for manually operating the manually operable brake, and an electrically powered actuator. The actuator is mechanically coupled to the manually operable brake and to the manual brake activation handle or pedal, and actuates the manually operable brake and moves the manual brake activation handle or pedal from a first position to a second portion in response to a signal at the patient support apparatus.

Ergonomic control apparatus for a patient support apparatus

The present invention provides a control apparatus that can be ergonomically and movably connected to a patient support apparatus. The control apparatus comprises a control module which is operatively coupled to the patient support apparatus and can provide a means for controlling the plurality of patient support apparatus functions. The control module is adapted for connection to a housing and the housing is movably connected to the patient support apparatus by a coupling device. The coupling device enables the relative movement of the housing and as such the control module relative to the patient support apparatus. In this manner access to the control module, and therefore to the functionality of the patient support apparatus, can be provided independent of the configuration of the patient support apparatus.

Location detection system for a patient handling device

Location detection systems are provided for determining the location of patient handling devices in a healthcare facility. In one embodiment, the location detection system comprises a locator fixed in each zone of each room in the facility. The locator includes at least one infrared transmitter for transmitting a unique location identifier to a receiver mounted on the patient handling device. A communication module transmits the unique location identifier from the patient handling device to a network utilized by the healthcare facility for the management of patient, personnel, and equipment information. A processing station located on the network processes the unique location identifier to ultimately determine the room and zone location of the patient handling device. The processing station may include a graphical user interface on a touch-screen display for reviewing and manipulating the location information.

System for detecting and monitoring vital signs

A system and method for determining and monitoring various characteristics of a patient positioned on a patient support apparatus, such as a bed, stretcher, or cot, is disclosed. The system and method involve monitoring the forces exerted by the patient on one or more force sensors, which may be load cells on the support apparatus. These force sensors will detect vibrations that correspond to various conditions of the patient, including the patient's heart rate, breathing rate, and/or the seizure status of a patient. These vibrations may be analyzed, such as by Fast Fourier Transforms, in order to determine the various conditions of the patient.

HOSPITAL BED

A patient support apparatus includes a deck, a plurality of side rails, a control panel, and a plurality of subsystems, such as a bed exit system that detects when a patient may exit from the support apparatus, or a lifting mechanism to raise and lower the deck. A controller is in communication with the control panel and is adapted to monitor conditions regarding the side rails and/or the other subsystems. At least one lamp is also provided on the patient support apparatus that is adapted to be illuminated in a first manner when a plurality of monitored conditions remain in a desired state, and in a second manner when at least one of the plurality of monitored conditions changes to an undesired state. 1. A patient support apparatus comprising:a deck for supporting a patient;a plurality of side rails movable between raised and lowered positions;a lifting mechanism adapted to raise and lower said deck;a bed exit system adapted to detect a patient's exit from the patient support apparatus;a control panel including a first control for controlling movement of said deck;a lamp; anda controller in communication with said control panel via a controller area network (CAN), said controller adapted to monitor conditions regarding at least two of said bed exit system, said lifting mechanism, and said plurality of side rails; said controller further adapted to illuminate said lamp in a first manner if all of the monitored conditions remain in a desired state and in a second manner if any one or more of the monitored conditions change out of the desired state.2. The apparatus of wherein said controller is adapted to monitor conditions regarding all three of said bed exit system claim 1 , said lifting mechanism claim 1 , and said plurality of side rails.3. The apparatus of further including:a plurality of wheels adapted to allow said patient support to roll; anda brake for resisting movement of at least one of said plurality of wheels;wherein said controller is further adapted ...

Location detection system for a device

A location detection system includes a device that is mobile for positioning at a location and has a unique device ID. The device also has circuitry for controlling one or more functions of the device and includes a network interface. A location transmitting device is provided that is spaced from the device for communicating a unique location identifier corresponding to the location of the device to the device. The circuitry is operable to send device data, the unique device ID, and the unique location identifier from the device by way of the network interface.

SYSTEM FOR DETECTING AND MONITORING VITAL SIGNS

A system and method for determining and monitoring various characteristics of a patient positioned on a patient support apparatus, such as a bed, stretcher, or cot, is disclosed. The system and method involve monitoring the forces exerted by the patient on one or more force sensors, which may be load cells on the support apparatus. These force sensors will detect vibrations that correspond to various conditions of the patient, including the patient's heart rate, breathing rate, and/or the seizure status of a patient. These vibrations may be analyzed, such as by Fast Fourier Transforms, in order to determine the various conditions of the patient.

Location detection system for a patient handling device

A location detection system for a facility including a patient handling device for supporting a patient and being mobile for positioning at a location in the facility, a locator fixed relative to the patient handling device for transmitting a unique location identifier corresponding to the location of the patient handling device, and a processing station remote from the patient handling device and the locator for receiving the unique location identifier such that the location of the patient handling device can be determined and monitored remotely from the patient handling device. The system further includes a receiver mounted to the patient handling device for receiving the unique location identifier from the locator and a communication module with a unique ID for the patient handling device mounted to the patient handling device and in communication with the receiver and transmitting the unique ID and the unique location identifier received by the receiver from the patient handling device ...

PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS WITH BRAKING SYSTEM

A patient support apparatus includes a patient support surface, a manually operable brake operatively associated with the patient support surface, a manual brake activation handle or pedal for manually operating the manually operable brake, and an electrically powered actuator. The actuator is mechanically coupled to the manually operable brake and to the manual brake activation handle or pedal, and actuates the manually operable brake and moves the manual brake activation handle or pedal from a first position to a second portion in response to a signal at the patient support apparatus. 1. A method of actuating a brake on a caster wheel of a patient support apparatus to stop motion of the apparatus , the patient support apparatus including a support frame and a plurality of caster wheels supporting the frame , a patient support surface supported by the support frame , a manually operable brake for manually braking one or more of the caster wheels , and a manual brake activation handle or pedal for manually operating the manually operable brake , the patient support apparatus further including an actuator for selectively outputting a driving force and a control system , said method comprising:electrically coupling the control system to the actuator;generating an actuating signal with said control system;transmitting the actuating signal to the actuator to thereby actuate the actuator to generate a driving force;mechanically coupling the actuator with the manually operable brake wherein the driving force generated by the actuator actuates the manually operable brake to thereby brake the caster wheel; andmechanically coupling the actuator with the manual brake activation handle or pedal wherein the driving force of the actuator moves the manual brake activation handle or pedal between a first position and a second position when the actuator actuates the manually operable brake to brake the caster wheel.2. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising indicating ...

HOSPITAL BED

A patient support apparatus includes a frame, with a barrier, and a patient support surface supported in the frame. The apparatus further includes a control system with a controller, which is incorporated into the surface or the frame, and which is in communication with at least one functional component associated with the surface or the frame for controlling or monitoring the functional component. The control system further includes a touch-screen display in communication with the controller for controlling the functional component, which is positioned in the barrier between the exterior and interior side of the barrier wherein the display is incorporated into the barrier and accessible at the exterior or interior side for access by a user. The display is configured to allow the user to select the functional component and control or monitor a function associated with the selected functional component and includes a touch-selectable icon at the display representative of a function associated ...

VIBRATING PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS WITH A RESONANT REFERENCING PERCUSSION DEVICE

A vibrating patient support apparatus has a resonant referencing percussion device preferably located internally to a cover of a mattress of the apparatus. The percussion device delivers a percussion or vibration at a controlled operating frequency that is preferably slightly less than a resonant frequency located internal to the mattress of the apparatus. With the various weight distributions of a patient, the device is capable of determining the ever shifting resonant frequency via control signals received by a controller from a pressure sensor or accelerometer of the device. Because the operating frequency is slightly less than the natural resonating frequency, energy of the system is conserved. Because the operating frequency is not the controller calculated resonant frequency, wear on the device and potential damage is minimized.

Hospital bed

A method of actuating a manually operable brake on a caster wheel of a patient support apparatus to stop motion of the apparatus includes electrically coupling the control system of the patient support to an actuator at the patient support, generating actuating signals with the control system based on input at the patient support apparatus, transmitting the actuating signals to the actuator to thereby actuate the actuator to output a driving force, and mechanically coupling the driving force of the actuator with the manually operable brake to thereby actuate the manually operable brake and thereby brake the caster wheels.

Hospital bed

A patient support apparatus may include a base frame, lift arms, an intermediate frame, a deck support having three articulating sections, a brake system, various drive motors, actuators, and sensors, at least one power source, communication devices, and at least one controller, wherein the lift arms, articulating sections, drive motors, brake system, and actuators may be controlled from the at least one controller and in response to signals received by the various sensors, while storing data internally and/or sending data to a remote location.

Hospital bed

A patient support apparatus includes a frame, with a barrier, and a patient support surface supported in the frame. The apparatus further includes a control system with a controller, which is incorporated into the surface or the frame, and which is in communication with at least one functional component associated with the surface or the frame for controlling or monitoring the functional component. The control system further includes a touch-screen display in communication with the controller for controlling the functional component, which is positioned in the barrier between the exterior and interior side of the barrier wherein the display is incorporated into the barrier and accessible at the exterior or interior side for access by a user. The display is configured to allow the user to select the functional component and control or monitor a function associated with the selected functional component and includes a touch-selectable icon at the display representative of a function associated with the selected component, and with the icon operable to adjust the function of the selected component.

Diagnostic and control system for a patient support

The present invention provides a diagnostic and control system for a patient support, wherein the patient support comprises one or more of a plurality of electronic elements including for example, load sensors, tilt sensors, actuators for adjusting patient support angles and the like, in addition to other electronic elements for example. The diagnostic and control system according to the present invention can enable the specific control of each of these electronic element for desired operation thereof and further can enable the monitoring of the operating conditions of these electronic elements and additional patient support conditions. The diagnostic and control system further enables the evaluation and determination of the existence of one or more faults relating to the operation of the patient support and the respective one or more electronic elements, for example the existence of a fault can be conveyed to an operator in a form of an error message. The diagnostic and control system can subsequently evaluate the detected fault and can determine for example a cause thereof and a potential remedy. In this manner the diagnostic and control system according to the present invention can provide the evaluation of the detected fault and subsequently provide the operator or technician with a remedy for the fault detected, thereby reducing the downtime of a patient support including the diagnostic and control system according to the present.

HOSPITAL BED

A patient support apparatus may include a base frame, lift arms, an intermediate frame, a deck support having three articulating sections, a brake system, various drive motors, actuators, and sensors, at least one power source, communication devices, and at least one controller, wherein the lift arms, articulating sections, drive motors, brake system, and actuators may be controlled from the at least one controller and in response to signals received by the various sensors, while storing data internally and/or sending data to a remote location.

Hospital patient support

The patient support with a head end and a foot end comprises a lying surface supported by a frame system. It also comprises a pair of head end siderails, a pair of foot end siderails, a headboard, a footboard, a power system and a communication system. The frame system comprises a lying surface support moveably connected to a load frame by an articulation system providing means for pivoting sections of the lying surface support relative to the load frame, a head end support arm pivotally attached to the head end of the load frame, a mobile frame translationally attached to foot end of the load frame, an intermediate frame being operationally connected to the load frame by a plurality of load cells and movably connected to a base frame by an elevation system, the elevation system providing a means for raising and lowering the intermediate frame relative to a base frame, the base frame being supported on the floor by a plurality of caster wheels, including a drive wheel operatively connected ...

PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS WITH LIFT SYSTEM

A patient support apparatus includes a base, a patient support, and a lift mechanism wherein the lift mechanism is coupled to the patient support by at least one upper pivot connection. The upper pivot connection includes an elongated slot and a pin captured in the elongated slot to form a sliding pivot axis, with the sliding pivot axis traveling along the elongated slot when the lift mechanism raises or lowers the patient support. 1. A patient support apparatus comprising:a base;a patient support; anda lift mechanism to raise or lower said patient support relative to said base, said lift mechanism having a first pair of lift arms and a second pair of lift arms, said first pair of lift arms pivotally coupled to said patient support by a first pair of upper pivot connections, said second pair of lift arms pivotally coupled to said patient support by a second pair of upper pivot connections, each of said first and second pair of lift arms pivotally mounted to said base, said first pair of lift arms being independent from said second pair of lift arms, and at least one pivot connection of said first pair of upper pivot connections including an elongated slot and a pin captured in said elongated slot to form a sliding pivot axis, wherein said sliding pivot axis travels along said elongated slot when said lift mechanism raises or lowers said patient support relative to said base.2. The patient support apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said elongated slot comprises a linear slot.3. The patient support apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said patient support comprises a frame and said elongated slot is positioned at said frame.4. The patient support apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein each of said first pair of upper pivot connections includes an elongated slot and a pin captured in a respective elongated slot to form said sliding pivot axis for each of said first pair of lift arms.5. The patient support apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising ...

Patient support surface with turn-assist

A patient support apparatus includes a support surface, which includes at least one fluid bladder and a recess, and a fluid delivery system configured to deliver fluid to the bladder, with at least a portion of the fluid delivery system being located in the recess. The fluid delivery system includes a pump having a fluid output and a fluid input. The apparatus further includes a chamber wall that defines a chamber in fluid communication with the fluid input or output of the pump, with the chamber wall absorbing vibration from the pump when the pump is operated to output fluid at its fluid output.

MOVABLE SIDERAIL APPARATUS FOR USE WITH A PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS

The present invention provides a movable siderail apparatus (5) for use with a patient support apparatus. The siderail apparatus (5) is configured to move the siderail body (14) associated therewith in a clock-type swing movement relative to the patient support apparatus. Two or more support arms (20) are disposed between the intermediate frame or the deck support of the patient support apparatus and the siderail body (14), each support arm (20) having two pivots (30, 40), a first (40) rotatably connecting it to the intermediate frame or deck support and a second (30) rotatably connecting it to the siderail body (14), thereby enabling the siderail body (14) to be raised or lowered vertically by a rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the patient support apparatus. In a first preferred embodiment, the angles defined between each support arm (20) and a lower edge of the siderail (9) are substantially obtuse during rotational movement of the siderail (9). In a second ...

PATIENT SUPPORT SURFACE WITH TURN-ASSIST

A patient support apparatus includes a support surface, which includes at least one fluid bladder and a recess, and a fluid delivery system configured to deliver fluid to the bladder, with at least a portion of the fluid delivery system being located in the recess. The fluid delivery system includes a pump having a fluid output and a fluid input. The apparatus further includes a chamber wall that defines a chamber in fluid communication with the fluid input or output of the pump, with the chamber wall absorbing vibration from the pump when the pump is operated to output fluid at its fluid output.

HOSPITAL BED

A patient support apparatus includes a deck, a plurality of side rails, a control panel, and a plurality of subsystems, such as a bed exit system that detects when a patient may exit from the support apparatus, or a lifting mechanism to raise and lower the deck. A controller is in communication with the control panel and is adapted to monitor conditions regarding the side rails and/or the other subsystems. At least one lamp is also provided on the patient support apparatus that is adapted to be illuminated in a first manner when a plurality of monitored conditions remain in a desired state, and in a second manner when at least one of the plurality of monitored conditions changes to an undesired state.

Hospital bed

A patient bed includes a base, a patent support supported by the base, and a control system. The patient support includes a pivotal head-end section, with the control system including an actuator to pivot the head-end section and being adapted to control the speed of the actuator and, further, to selectively increase the speed of the actuator to pivot the head-end section at a greater speed.

Hospital bed

A patient bed includes a base, a patent support supported by the base, and a control system. The patient support includes a pivotal head-end section, with the control system including an actuator to pivot the head-end section and being adapted to control the speed of the actuator and, further, to selectively increase the speed of the actuator to pivot the head-end section at a greater speed.

DOOR ACTUATORS, INTEGRATED DOOR ACTUATOR AND METHOD OF OPERATING A DOOR ACTUATOR OF A TRANSIT VEHICLE

The door actuator generally has a receiving structure having a door carriage path; a first coil assembly and a second coil assembly both being mounted to the receiving structure along a common coil assembly plane and being longitudinally spaced from one another along the door carriage path by a spacing distance; and a door carriage being slidingly received by the receiving structure, the door carriage having a plurality of alternate-pole magnets provided along a magnet plane being parallel and spaced apart from the coil assembly plane, the first and second coil assemblies being operable to move the door carriage back and forth between the two ends of the rail. 143-. (canceled)44. A door actuator , comprising:a receiving structure having a door carriage path;a first coil assembly and a second coil assembly, both being mounted to the receiving structure along a common coil assembly plane and being longitudinally spaced from one another along the door carriage path by a spacing distance; anda door carriage being slidingly received by the receiving structure, the door carriage having a plurality of alternate-pole magnets provided along a magnet plane being parallel and spaced apart from the coil assembly plane, the first and second coil assemblies being operable to move the door carriage back and forth between the two ends of the rail.45. The door actuator of claim 44 , wherein the spacing distance is at least one of equal and smaller than a length of the door carriage.46. The door actuator of claim 44 , wherein the spacing distance is at least six inches.47. The door actuator of claim 44 , wherein a length of the door carriage is about 18 inches.48. The door actuator of claim 44 , wherein each of the first and second coil assemblies has a coil casing and a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart coils received in the coil casing.49. The door actuator of claim 48 , wherein an inter-coil spacing distance between two adjacent ones of the longitudinally spaced apart coils ...

Door actuators, integrated door actuator and method of operating a door actuator of a transit vehicle

The door actuator generally has a receiving structure having a door carriage path; a first coil assembly and a second coil assembly both being mounted to the receiving structure along a common coil assembly plane and being longitudinally spaced from one another along the door carriage path by a spacing distance; and a door carriage being slidingly received by the receiving structure, the door carriage having a plurality of alternate-pole magnets provided along a magnet plane being parallel and spaced apart from the coil assembly plane, the first and second coil assemblies being operable to move the door carriage back and forth between the two ends of the rail.

LOCATION DETECTION SYSTEM FOR A PATIENT HANDLING DEVICE

A location detection system for a facility including a patient handling device for supporting a patient and being mobile for positioning at a location in the facility, a locator fixed relative to the patient handling device for transmitting a unique location identifier corresponding to the location of the patient handling device, and a processing station remote from the patient handling device and the locator for receiving the unique location identifier such that the location of the patient handling device can be determined and monitored remotely from the patient handling device. The system further includes a receiver mounted to the patient handling device for receiving the unique location identifier from the locator and a communication module with a unique ID for the patient handling device mounted to the patient handling device and in communication with the receiver and transmitting the unique ID and the unique location identifier received by the receiver from the patient handling device ...

Hospital bed

A patient support apparatus includes a deck, a plurality of side rails, a control panel, and a plurality of subsystems, such as a bed exit system that detects when a patient may exit from the support apparatus, or a lifting mechanism to raise and lower the deck. A controller is in communication with the control panel and is adapted to monitor conditions regarding the side rails and/or the other subsystems. At least one lamp is also provided on the patient support apparatus that is adapted to be illuminated in a first manner when a plurality of monitored conditions remain in a desired state, and in a second manner when at least one of the plurality of monitored conditions changes to an undesired state.

LOCATION DETECTION SYSTEM FOR A DEVICE

A location detection system includes a device that is mobile for positioning at a location and has a unique device ID. The device also has circuitry for controlling one or more functions of the device and includes a network interface. A location transmitting device is provided that is spaced from the device for communicating a unique location identifier corresponding to the location of the device to the device. The circuitry is operable to send device data, the unique device ID, and the unique location identifier from the device by way of the network interface.

Locking mechanism for sliding door system

The locking mechanism is adapted to a door system having a door unit slidably mounted to a door frame to open and close by sliding longitudinally along the door frame. The locking mechanism includes: a pivoting member pivotally mounted to one of the door frame and the door unit for pivoting about a pivot axis, and a hook member spaced apart from the pivot axis such that the hook member can pivot about the pivot axis via the pivoting member; and a guide member secured to the other one of the door frame and the door unit, the guide member having a channel formed therein to receive the hook member when the pivoting member is moved toward the guide by said sliding of the door, and subsequently maintain engagement with the hook member.

METHOD OF ADJUSTING A HEIGHT OF A CAR FLOOR PLANE OF A RAILROAD CAR AND HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM

There is provided a method of adjusting a height of a car floor plane of a railroad car relative to a platform of a train station. The method includes, using a height adjusting system mounted to an exterior side of the railroad car adjacent the car floor plane, emitting a first ultrasonic beam towards the platform of the train station and monitoring a reflection of the first ultrasonic beam; and generating a first signal based on said monitoring the reflection of the first ultrasonic beam. The method includes, using a processor, operating an actuator of a suspension system of the railroad car to adjust the height of the car floor plane to a height of the platform of the train station based on the generated first signal. 1. A method of adjusting a height of a car floor plane of a railroad car relative to a platform of a train station , the method comprising: emitting a first ultrasonic beam towards the platform of the train station and monitoring a reflection of the first ultrasonic beam;', 'generating a first signal based on said monitoring the reflection of the first ultrasonic beam; and, 'using a height adjusting system mounted to an exterior side of the railroad car adjacent the car floor plane,'}using a processor, operating an actuator of a suspension system of the railroad car to adjust the height of the car floor plane to a height of the platform of the train station based on the generated first signal.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said emitting the first ultrasonic beam further comprises emitting the first ultrasonic beam outwardly from the railroad car and parallel to the car floor plane.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein said emitting the first ultrasonic beam further comprises emitting the first ultrasonic beam parallel to and below the car floor plane claim 1 , the car floor plane and a first plane of the first ultrasonic beam having a first vertical offset below or equal to an eighth of an inch.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first signal is ...

Location detection system for a patient handling device

Location detection systems are provided for determining the location of patient handling devices (22) in a healthcare facility. In one embodiment, the location detection system (20) comprises a locator (52) fixed in each zone (A, B) of each room (Room 1) in the facility. The locator (52) includes at least one infrared transmitter (56) for transmitting a unique location identifier to a receiver (54) mounted on the patient handling device (22). A communication module (48) transmits the unique location identifier from the patient handling device (22) to a network (32) utilized by the healthcare facility for the management of patient, personnel, and equipment information. A processing station (50) located on the network (32) processes the unique location identifier to ultimately determine the room and zone location of the patient handling device (22). The processing station (50) may include a graphical user interface on a touch-screen display for reviewing and manipulating the location information.

Sea urchin gonad extraction system, device and method

Le système d'extraction comprend : des moyens de serrage; des moyens d'ouverture et de fermeture permettant la fermeture des moyens de serrage pour saisir un oursi n avec un côté postérieur orienté vers le haut à une hauteur prédéterminée dans une zone de serrage, et l'ouverture des moyens de serrage dans une zone d'expulsion; des moyens d'entraînement pouvant déplacer les moyens de serrage de la zone de serrage à la zone d'expulsion; une zone de découpe où l'orientation de l'oursin est inversée et où l'oursin est mainten u par les moyens de serrage avec la face antérieure vers le haut où le côté antérieur de l'oursi n est découpé à une distance donnée de la hauteur de serrage; et des moyens d'extraction des gonades localisés entre la zone de découpe et la zone d'expulsion. Le dispositif d'extraction pour s a part utilise un impact pour extraire les gonades de l'oursin.

Location detection system for a patient handling device

Movable siderail apparatus for use with a patient support apparatus

The present invention provides a movable siderail apparatus (5) for use with a patient support apparatus The siderail apparatus (5) is configured to move the siderail body (14) associated therewith in a clock-type swing movement relative to the patient support apparatus Two or more support arms (20) are disposed between the intermediate frame or the deck support of the patient support apparatus and the siderail body (14), each support arm (20) having two pivots (30, 40), a first (40) rotatably connecting it to the intermediate frame or deck support and a second (30) rotatably connecting it to the siderail body (14), thereby enabling the siderail body (14) to be raised or lowered vertically by a rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the patient support apparatus Pn a first preferred embodiment, the angles defined between each support arm (20) and a lower edge of the siderail (9) are substantially obtuse during rotational movement of the siderail (9) Pn a second preferred embodiment, a guiding mechanism (110) is operatively connected to the cross-member (70) and two or more lower pivots (40), such that the guiding mechanism (110) provides means for lateral movement of the siderail (9) toward and away from the support apparatus

Location detection system for a patient handling device

Location detection systems are provided for determining the location of patient handling devices (22) in a healthcare facility. In one embodiment, the location detection system (20) comprises a locator (52) fixed in each zone (A, B) of each room (Room 1) in the facility. The locator (52) includes at least one infrared transmitter (56) for transmitting a unique location identifier to a receiver (54) mounted on the patient handling device (22). A communication module (48) transmits the unique location identifier from the patient handling device (22) to a network (32) utilized by the healthcare facility for the management of patient, personnel, and equipment information. A processing station (50) located on the network (32) processes the unique location identifier to ultimately determine the room and zone location of the patient handling device (22). The processing station (50) may include a graphical user interface on a touch-screen display for reviewing and manipulating the location information.

High-power modulator

A high-power modulator includes a plurality of means for limiting voltage and a plurality of controllable switches. Each of the switches is connected in parallel with a different one of the voltage limiting means to form a plurality of parallel pairs. Each of the parallel pairs is connected to each other in a series combination. A first parallel pair in the series combination can be connected to a main power source, and a last parallel pair in the series combination can be connected to a load. Each of the switches is switchable from an off or open position to an on or closed position. With the switch in the off position, voltage applied by the main power source which is above a first predetermined voltage results in current provided by the main power source being conducted through the voltage limiting means and a corresponding voltage potential drop across the voltage limiting means being substantially independent of the current conducted therethrough, and voltage applied by the main power source which is below the first predetermined voltage results in current provided by the main power source being substantially prevented from passing through the voltage limiting means. With the switch in the on position, current provided by the main power source is substantially all conducted through the switch and a voltage potential drop across the voltage limiting means is substantially zero. When voltage applied by the main power source is below a second predetermined voltage, a ratio of switches in the on position to those in the off position determines a total voltage potential drop across the series combination and thus the voltage applied to the load.

Vibrating patient support apparatus with a resonant referencing percussion device

A vibrating patient support apparatus has a resonant referencing percussion device (86) preferably located internally to a cover (24) of a mattress (22) of the apparatus. The percussion device (86) delivers a percussion or vibration at a controlled operating frequency (108, 114) that is preferably slightly less than a resonant frequency (104, 112) located internal to the mattress of the apparatus. With the various weight distributions of a patient, the device is capable of determining the ever shifting resonant frequency (104, 112) via control signals received by a controller (72) from a pressure sensor or accelerometer of the device. Because the operating frequency (108, 114) is slightly less than the natural resonating frequency (104, 112), energy of the system is conserved. Because the operating frequency is not the controller calculated resonant frequency, wear on the device and potential damage is minimized.

Movable siderail apparatus for use with a patient support apparatus

The present invention provides a movable siderail apparatus (5) for use with a patient support apparatus. The siderail apparatus (5) is configured to move the siderail body (14) associated therewith in a clock-type swing movement relative to the patient support apparatus. Two or more support arms (20) are disposed between the intermediate frame or the deck support of the patient support apparatus and the siderail body (14), each support arm (20) having two pivots (30, 40), a first (40) rotatably connecting it to the intermediate frame or deck support and a second (30) rotatably connecting it to the siderail body (14), thereby enabling the siderail body (14) to be raised or lowered vertically by a rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the patient support apparatus.

Apparatus and method for deriving power for switching a switch from voltage across the switch

Apparatus and related method for deriving, from voltage across a power switch, power for a gate drive which opens and closes the power switch in response to a control signal includes a first voltage converter connected in parallel with the power switch and a series combination also connected in parallel with the power switch. The first voltage converter converts a high input voltage which appears across the power switch when the power switch is open to a low output voltage. The series combination includes a second voltage converter for receiving the low output voltage from the first voltage converter, converting it, and providing the converted voltage to the gate drive. The series combination also includes a high-voltage switch, connected in series with the second voltage converter, for opening and closing when the power switch is opened and closed by the gate drive in response to the control signal. The high-voltage switch provides to the second voltage converter a low input voltage which appears across the power switch when the power switch is closed, and the second voltage converter converts the low input voltage and provides the converted voltage to the gate drive.

Location detection system for a patient handling device

Hospital patient support

The patient support with a head, end and a foot end comprises a lying surface supported by a frame system. It also comprises a pair of head end siderails, a pair of foot end siderails, a headboard, a footboard, a power system and a communication system. The frame system comprises a lying surface support moveably connected to a load frame by an articulation system providing means for pivoting sections of the lying surface support relative to the load frame, a head end support arm pivotally attached to the head end of the load frame, a mobile frame translationally attached to foot end of the load frame, an intermediate frame being operationally connected to the load frame by a plurality of load cells and movably connected to a base frame by an elevation system, the elevation system providing a means for raising and lowering the intermediate frame relative to a base frame, the base frame being supported on the floor by a plurality of caster wheels, including a drive wheel operatively connected to assist in movement of the patient support. A communication system is also provided to communicate with and control various functions of the patient support.

A patient support surface with turn-assist

A patient support apparatus includes a support surface, which includes at least one fluid bladder and a recess, and a fluid delivery system configured to deliver fluid to the bladder, with at least a portion of the fluid delivery system being located in the recess. The fluid delivery system includes a pump having a fluid output and a fluid input. The apparatus further includes a chamber wall that defines a chamber in fluid communication with the fluid input or output of the pump, with the chamber wall absorbing vibration from the pump when the pump is operated to output fluid at its fluid output.

Hospital bed

A patient support surface with turn-assist

door actuators, integrated door actuator and method of operating a vehicle door actuator in transit

a presente invenção refere-se a um acionador de porta que geralmente possui uma estrutura de recepção com um caminho do carrinho para porta; um primeiro conjunto de bobinas e um segundo conjunto de bobinas ambos sendo montados na estrutura de recepção ao longo de um plano do conjunto de bobinas comum e estando espaçados longitudinalmente um do outro ao longo do caminho do carrinho para porta por uma distância de espaçamento; e um carrinho para porta sendo recebido de forma deslizante pela estrutura de recepção, o carrinho para porta possuindo uma pluralidade de ímãs de polos alternados providos ao longo de um plano magnético sendo paralelo e espaçado do plano do conjunto de bobinas, os primeiros e segundos conjuntos de bobinas estando operáveis para mover o carrinho para porta da frente e para trás entre as duas extremidades do trilho. The present invention relates to a door driver which generally has a receiving structure with a cart-to-door path; a first set of coils and a second set of coils both being mounted on the receiving frame along a plane of the common coil set and being longitudinally spaced from each other along the door carriage path by a spacing distance; and a door carriage being slidably received by the receiving structure, the door carriage having a plurality of alternating pole magnets provided along a magnetic plane being parallel and spaced from the plane of the coil assembly, the first and second sets. of coils being operable to move the cart to front and back door between the two ends of the rail.

A patient support surface with turn-assist

A patient support apparatus includes a support surface, which includes at least one fluid bladder and a recess, and a fluid delivery system configured to deliver fluid to the bladder, with at least a portion of the fluid delivery system being located in the recess. The fluid delivery system includes a pump having a fluid output and a fluid input. The apparatus further includes a chamber wall that defines a chamber in fluid communication with the fluid input or output of the pump, with the chamber wall absorbing vibration from the pump when the pump is operated to output fluid at its fluid output.

Diagnostic and control system for a patient support

The present invention provides a diagnostic and control system for a patient support, wherein' the patient support comprises one or more of a plurality of electronic elements including for example, load sensors, tilt sensors, actuators for adjusting patient support angles and the like, in addition to other electronic elements for example. The diagnostic and control system according to the present invention can enable the specific control of each of these electronic element for desired operation thereof and further can enable the monitoring of the operating conditions of these electronic elements and additional patient support conditions. The diagnostic and control system further enables the evaluation and determination of the existence of one or more faults relating to the operation of the patient support and the respective one or more electronic elements, for example the existence of a fault can be conveyed to an operator in a form of an error message. The diagnostic an control system can subsequently evaluate the detected fault and can determine for example cause thereof and a potential remedy. In this manner the diagnostic and control system according to the present invention can provide the evaluation of the detected fault an subsequently provide the operator or technician with a remedy for the fault detected, thereby reducing the downtime of a patient support including the diagnostic and control system according to the present.

Hospital patient support

Door actuators, integrated door actuator and method of operating a door actuator of a transit vehicle

The door actuator generally has a receiving structure having a door carriage path; a first coil assembly and a second coil assembly both being mounted to the receiving structure along a common coil assembly plane and being longitudinally spaced from one another along the door carriage path by a spacing distance; and a door carriage being slidingly received by the receiving structure, the door carriage having a plurality of alternate-pole magnets provided along a magnet plane being parallel and spaced apart from the coil assembly plane, the first and second coil assemblies being operable to move the door carriage back and forth between the two ends of the rail.

Standortdetektionssystem für eine patiententransportvorrichtung

Locking mechanism for sliding door system

The locking mechanism is generally adapted to a door system having a door unit slidably mounted to a door frame to open and close by sliding longitudinally along the door frame. The locking mechanism has : a pivoting member pivotally mounted to one of the door frame and the door unit for pivoting about a pivot axis, and a hook member spaced apart from the pivot axis such that the hook member can pivot about the pivot axis via the pivoting member; and a guide member secured to the other one of the door frame and the door unit, the guide member having a channel formed therein to receive the hook member when the pivoting member is moved toward the guide by said sliding of the door, and subsequently maintain engagement with the hook member.