GB2628124A

GB2628124A - Stretcher

Info

Publication number: GB2628124A
Application number: GB2303722.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Elliott Ryan
Original assignee: British Rescue Group
Current assignee: British Rescue Group
Priority date: 2023-03-14
Filing date: 2023-03-14
Publication date: 2024-09-18
Also published as: WO2024189357A1; GB202303722D0

Abstract

A stretcher for transporting a subject comprising an elongate rigid support bar and a flexible support sheet 6 for supporting an injured person wherein a first edge 6a of the flexible sheet is connectable to the rigid support and a second edge 6b of the flexible support is releasably connectable to the rigid support and the second edge of the flexible support can be connected to the rigid support without disconnecting the first edge. The flexible sheet 6 wraps around a user and hangs from the single support pole. The rigid support may be telescopic and have sections with a circular cross section. It can be plastic reinforced with carbon fibre and the sheet a fabric made from fibres such as polyethylene. The first edge 6a of the flexible support may have a sleeve 12 and the second 6b hook and loop attachments. The flexible sheet may also have opening 40a for access.

Description

STRETCHER

The present invention relates to a stretcher for use when carrying a subject. The stretcher may advantageously be used to transport a subject over a wide range of different terrains.

It should be noted that throughout this specification, reference is made to a subject' or to 'subjects' to describe the person or people transported using the stretcher. It is to be understood that devices and methods embodying the present invention are applicable to any people including but not limited to those who are unwell, injured, ill, wounded or the like. In the interests of clarity and brevity, the term subject, as used in this specification, is to be interpreted broadly to cover all people who are transported using the stretcher.

It should also be noted that the devices and methods embodying the present invention are not restricted to use on one particular type of terrain, and may be employed to transport subjects in other locations and situations including, but not limited to disaster zones, hazardous zones, conflict zones, rubble, snow, natural terrain, synthetic terrain or the like. In the interests of clarity and brevity, the term terrain', as used in this specification, is to be interpreted broadly to cover all locations or situations, in which a subject can be physically transported.

Stretchers are used to transport subjects either out of harmful situations or to locations where medical care can be provided. The stretcher is generally carried by other people, for example one or more person at either end or either side of the stretcher. Stretchers can come in a variety of designs depending on the application. Some stretchers are formed from a rigid board, typically plastic, with a number of straps for securing the subject. The rigid plastic board may be formed into an ergonomic shape to cradle the subject and may comprise handles around the edge for ease of lifting and carrying. Another type of lightweight or portable stretcher comprises two rigid poles between which a support member is held. The support member can be made of fabric or plastic sheet, can be flexible and can be attached to the poles, for example by a number of loops. In order to improve the portability of these stretchers, some sections may be dismantled or folded to reduce their size when not in use. In order to transport subjects, stretchers generally require two or more people to lift and support the stretcher. The subject may be secured to the stretcher with the use of straps. The handles or poles provide lifting points for raising and carrying the subject.

Stretchers have widespread application and are used in a number of situations. They are the primary method of transporting a subject by foot in order to move them to a more suitable location for receiving medical attention. A common example of the use of stretchers is to transport injured or unwell subjects from one location to a vehicle such as an ambulance. Within the ambulance the subject can be tended to whilst being transported to a medical centre such as a hospital. Another common application of stretchers is in a rescue scenario. In some circumstances it may not be possible to bring an ambulance or other rescue vehicle close to a subject, for example due to the terrain or location preventing vehicular access. Therefore, the subject is placed on a stretcher and carried by a number of people on foot to the vehicle for treatment and/or transport to a medical facility.

Some scenarios involve a high number of subjects requiring attention. One example of this is in a disaster relief zone. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes and tsunamis can have devastating effects on highly populated areas. This often results in numerous casualties and many people require rescue or medical attention. In this case a stretcher is often used to transport subjects to medical facilities or to move them from hazardous areas. This can often require transporting the subject over difficult terrain, for example rubble and debris. A similar circumstance is in a region where conflict has caused the destruction of populated areas or the injury of civilians and military personnel. In these situations, there is a need to quickly transport subjects out of harm or to medical facilities, therefore a lightweight, compact and highly portable stretcher is required.

It is often the case that injured people require careful handling in order to reduce the chance of further harm. Some injuries can be worsened by incorrect handling of the subject and can lead to further complications. Many stretchers have straps to secure the subject to the main body of the stretcher. This ensures minimal movement of the subject in relation to the stretcher during transit. However, because of the generally rigid nature of the stretcher body of many stretchers, the whole assembly can still be knocked or shaken during transit. This can cause discomfort to the subject and may slow the pace at which the stretcher can be moved. In some circumstances, delays can be detrimental to the health of the subject, particularly if their condition is deteriorating.

In many circumstances quick retrieval and transport of a subject is required, either due to the condition of the subject and/or because they are in a hazardous environment. Lightweight, portable stretchers that are quick to assemble are best suited to this task.

It can also be of advantage for the stretcher to have a flexible support member for the subject to lie on. This can improve comfort and reduce shaking and knocking of the subject during transit. In certain examples, the subject lies on a flexible support member hanging suspended below a pair of poles. Gravity ensures that the subject is kept level as the terrain is traversed and the likelihood of shaking the subject is reduced.

Suitable stretchers for performing this task are known in the art, however they are less common than rigid stretchers. GB544906A discloses an example of a known stretcher comprising a central longitudinal strip of flexible material and a plurality of laterally extending strips of flexible material attached to and adapted to support the central strip. The ends of the laterally extending strips are detachably connected to a set of poles.

In one embodiment of the invention disclosed in GB544906A the ends of the laterally extending strips are provided with loops and are brought in line above the body of a subject lying on the central strip. A single pole is threaded through the loops. This enables the stretcher to be suspended from a single pole with the subject securely held against falling therefrom. This is considered particularly advantageous when the subject has to be lowered or raised a considerable height.

This method for carrying a subject has a number of disadvantages. Firstly, the stretcher is assembled from numerous components which increases the complexity of manufacture and assembly. The central longitudinal strip and the plurality of laterally extending strips are required to be assembled beneath the subject whilst they are in a recumbent posture. This does not provide a quick means of positioning the subject on the stretcher and could increase the risk of subsequent injury.

Secondly, the central longitudinal strip and the plurality of laterally extending strips are not compact and cannot easily be reduced in size or volume for ease of transport. The multiple components of the stretcher are separate when not in use and while flexible, are not collapsible in any manner. Therefore, the stretcher is not portable and easy to transport when not in use. The user could require additional materials such as bindings or a carrying bag in order to transport the various components of the stretcher.

Finally, the stretcher requires the use of at least one pole detachably connected to the ends of the laterally extending strips. The or each pole must extend at least the full length of the central longitudinal strip in order to fully support the person. In one embodiment of the stretcher of GB544906A the longitudinal length of each pole is reduced by the use of two poles on either side, however this introduces more components to the assembly and further hinders the portability of the stretcher.

There therefore remains a need for an improved stretcher and method for transporting a subject. Specifically, there remains a need for a stretcher which can be used in a reliable and safe method for quickly securing and transporting a subject, whilst substantially maintaining the safety, comfort and position of the subject during transit. More specifically, there remains a need for a stretcher that is lightweight and portable when not in use.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a stretcher assembly for securing and transporting a subject, the stretcher assembly comprising: an elongate rigid support member; and a flexible support member for supporting the subject having a first edge and a second edge, the first and second edges extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rigid support member; wherein the first edge of the flexible support member is connectable to the rigid support member; and wherein the second edge of the flexible support member is releasably connectable to the rigid support member; in use the flexible support member being connected at its first edge to the rigid support member, releasably connected at its second edge to the rigid support member and extending around the subject being carried on the stretcher; wherein the second edge of the flexible support member may be connected to and released from the rigid support member without disconnecting the first edge of the flexible support member from the rigid support member and, preferably, without moving the rigid support member relative to the first edge of the flexible support member.

The stretcher assembly of the present invention offers a number of advantages over prior art stretchers and methods for transporting subjects.

Firstly, the stretcher does not require numerous complex components. A user is only required to perform a basic assembly to connect one edge of the flexible support member to the rigid support member. This simple and fast assembly allows the user to set up the stretcher on location and quickly position subjects for transport.

In some hazardous environments or situations when the subject's condition is rapidly deteriorating, efficiency and speed are critical. The simple assembly of the stretcher and efficient transport of the subject could aid in removing the subject from a hazardous situation and/or allow them to receive medical attention sooner.

Secondly, the user only requires the stretcher assembly to transport the subject. No other equipment is required and the present invention comprises a compact and complete solution to aid in the transport of a subject over a range of different terrains.

Further, the stretcher assembly of the present invention is lightweight and portable. Whereas some stretchers can be relatively large and heavy, the present invention comprises a lightweight and portable stretcher that can be arranged when not in use to be compact for ease of transport.

Finally, when a subject is transported on the stretcher assembly according to the present invention, they are securely suspended above the ground with the flexible support member hanging from the rigid support member and extending on either side of the subject as well as beneath the subject. In this position the force of gravity keeps the subject level, for example when rough terrain is being traversed. This reduces the likelihood of shaking and knocks to the stretcher assembly and maintains a comfortable position for the subject.

The stretcher assembly of the present invention, comprises a rigid support member. In use, the rigid support member extends longitudinally along the length of the stretcher assembly and supports the weight of the subject being carried on the stretcher assembly. Portions of the rigid support member provide a handle for the users bearing the stretcher to hold. In particular, the rigid support member has a first handle portion at a first end thereof and a second handle portion at a second end thereof.

The rigid support member may have any configuration that is suitable for supporting weight, more specifically the weight of a subject being carried on the stretcher assembly. In particular, the rigid support member is suitable for supporting the weight of a subject lying in a recumbent position.

The rigid support member is therefore preferably at least the length of the average subject to be carried, when the stretcher assembly is assembled and the subject is lying in the stretcher assembly. More particularly, the rigid support member has a length such that the first and second handle portions extend beyond the head and feet of the subject being carried.

The rigid support member may have any suitable length that allows the subject to be carried by two stretcher bearers, with one at each end of the stretcher. The length of the rigid support member may be least 0.7 m, more preferably at least 1 m, still more preferably at least 1.5 m, more preferably still at least 2 m. The rigid support member may be up to 3 m in length, more preferably up to 2.75 m, still more preferably up to 2.5 m. In one preferred embodiment, the length of the rigid support member is from 2 to 2.75 m, preferably from 2.2 to 2.5 m, especially about 2.4 m. References herein to the 'length' of the rigid support member are to its length when in use.

The rigid support member may be formed from any suitable material. In one preferred embodiment, the rigid support member is formed from fibre reinforced plastic. Suitable fibre reinforced plastics include plastic reinforced with glass fibres and, more preferably, fibre reinforced plastic with a high strength to weight ratio, such as plastic reinforced with carbon fibres. The rigid support member may alternatively be formed from any suitable metal including steel, such as stainless steel, and, more preferably lighter metals, such as aluminium and its alloys. The rigid support member may, as another alternative, be formed from any other suitable non-metallic materials, for example wood, plastics and composite materials.

The rigid support member may have a consistent cross section along its entire length. The cross section may be any two-dimensional shape including but not limited to a circle, triangle, square, rectangle, or any other polygon. In one preferred embodiment the cross section of the rigid support member is substantially the same along the entire length of the rigid support member, more preferably circular along its entire length. A circular cross section presents a number of advantages during the use of the stretcher assembly. In having a circular cross section, the rigid support member is cylindrical in form. This provides a smooth rounded surface for the user to grip which provides comfort and ease of handling for the user. Circles are known in the art to be relatively strong shapes when used in load bearing members. Therefore, a circular cross section provides strength to the rigid support member when the weight of a subject is suspended on the stretcher assembly. Circles have infinite rotational symmetry; therefore, the rigid support member can function exactly as intended when rotated at any angle about its longitudinal axis.

The rigid support member may be solid. More preferably, the rigid support member is hollow along a major portion, still more preferably all, of its length. The rigid support member may be tubular with a cross section, preferably circular, such that it has an inner diameter and outer diameter with a substantially constant wall thickness along its entire length. This offers a number of advantages to the user when transporting a subject on the stretcher assembly. Provided the wall thickness of the rigid support member is sufficient to bear the weight of the subject, the overall mass of the stretcher assembly is greatly reduced by employing the tubular configuration. Therefore, the rigid support member is lighter and more portable whilst retaining a sufficient diameter for a comfortable grip and sufficient strength for supporting the subject. In addition, the hollow interior of the rigid support member provides a space for storing other components of the stretcher, in particular the flexible support member, as described in more detail below.

The rigid support member may have any suitable outer diameter. The rigid support member may have an outer diameter of at least 0.02 m, more preferably at least 0.03 m. In one preferred embodiment, the rigid support member has an outer diameter of about 0.05 m.

In embodiments in which the rigid support member is hollow or tubular, the wall thickness of the rigid support member may be any suitable thickness. The wall thickness will be determined at least in part by the material from which the rigid support member is formed.

The rigid support member may consist of a single component along its entire length. More preferably, the rigid support member comprises a plurality of sections that may be interconnected to form an elongate rigid support member of the required length. The rigid support member may comprise at least two sections, more preferably at least three sections. In one preferred embodiment, the rigid support member comprises four sections. In use, the sections are arranged end-to-end to form the rigid support member.

The rigid support member preferably comprises a plurality of sections in an arrangement that may be dismantled or collapsed such that the assembly can be arranged to be compact and portable when not in use. Considering one preferred embodiment of the present invention wherein the rigid support member comprises a tubular body with a circular cross section, the rigid support member may comprise a plurality of elongate cylindrical sections.

Each section making up the rigid support member may be connected to other sections when the rigid support member is assembled. A number of arrangements for forming the connection between adjacent sections of the rigid support member are known in the art that are suitable for providing a non-permanent connection between two or more sections, such as two or more sections of a cylindrical body. One such arrangement employs tubular sections, for example having a circular cross section, and comprises a portion at a first end of a first section having an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of a portion at a first end of a second section.

In use, the end portion of the first end of the first section is inserted into the end portion of the first end of the second section and the two sections preferably secured together, for example by one or more of a threaded connection, a clamp, a pin or by the use of friction. Alternatively, adjacent sections of the rigid support member may be connected end to end by a sleeve extending over the end portions of both sections, and/or by a connector extending within the end portions of the adjacent sections. Again, the sections may be fastened together in this fashion using a number of methods including but not limited to spring loaded pin connections, friction, threaded fittings, clamps or the like.

In one preferred embodiment the rigid support member comprises an arrangement of a plurality of sections that may be collapsed to reduce the length of the rigid support member when not in use. In one preferred embodiment, the rigid support member comprises a plurality of sections arranged in a telescopic fashion, such that one or more sections of the rigid support member is housed within an adjacent section.

When dismantled or collapsed the rigid support member is preferably substantially shorter in length than when fully extended. Specifically, when dismantled or collapsed, the length of the rigid support member may be less than 2.4 m, more preferably less than 2 m, more preferably still less than 1.5 m. In one preferred embodiment the length of the rigid support member is 0.7 m, when all the sections are dismantled or collapsed. In this respect, the length' of the rigid support member when dismantled is a reference to the length of the longest section or a reference to the length of the rigid support member when in the collapsed state.

The stretcher assembly further comprises a flexible support member. The flexible support member is in the form of a sheet of flexible material. In use, the subject being carried on the stretcher lies on the flexible support member and is held within the flexible support member, while the stretcher is being carried by the stretcher bearers, in particular with the flexible support member extending beneath and around on both sides of the subject.

The flexible support member has a first edge and a second edge. In use, the first and second edges extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stretcher assembly. The flexible support member preferably further has a first end and a second end, each extending between the first and second edges. The flexible support member is preferably elongate, that is, it has a length greater than its width. Preferably the flexible support member has a length that is sufficient to accommodate the subject to be carried, more preferably a length sufficient to carry the subject with all parts of the subject held within the flexible support member.

In use, the first edge of the flexible support member is connected to the rigid support member. The second edge of the flexible support member is releasably connected to the rigid support member. In particular, the second edge may be connected and disconnected from the rigid support member without disconnecting the first edge from the rigid support member. This has the advantage of facilitating the use of the stretcher and reducing the number of steps required to recover a subject onto the stretcher and unload the subject. Preferably, the arrangement is that the second edge of the flexible support member may be connected to and disconnected from the rigid support member without needing to move the rigid support member relative to the first edge of the flexible support member. Again, this provides significant advantages when using the stretcher assembly, in particular reducing the number of operations required. This in turn reduces the time needed to recover and deliver a subject.

The flexible support member may have any suitable shape. Preferably, the flexible support member is square or rectangular, more preferably rectangular. In a preferred embodiment, the length of the rectangular flexible support member extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rigid support member and the width of the rectangular flexible support member extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rigid support member.

The length of the flexible support member may be least 0.7 m, more preferably at least 1 m, more preferably still at least 1.2 m, still more preferably at least 1.5 m, especially at least 1.7 m. The length of the flexible support member may be up to 2.75 m in length, more preferably up to 2.5 m, still more preferably up to 2.25 m. In one preferred embodiment, the length of the flexible support member is from 1.5 to 2.5 m, preferably from 1.75 to 2.25 m, especially about 2 m. References herein to the length' of the flexible support member are to its length parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stretcher assembly when in use.

The width of the flexible support member may be least 0.5 m, more preferably at least 0.75 m, more preferably still at least 1 m, still more preferably at least 1.2 m, especially at least 1.5 m. The width of the flexible support member may be up to 2.25 m in length, more preferably up to 2 m, still more preferably up to 1.75 m. In one preferred embodiment, the width of the flexible support member is from 1.25 to 2 m, preferably from 1.5 to 1.8 m, especially about 1.7 m. References herein to the 'width' of the flexible support member are to its width perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the stretcher assembly when in use.

The flexible support member has an aspect ratio, that is, the ratio of its length to its width. The aspect ratio may be less than 1, equal to 1 or greater than 1. The aspect ratio of the flexible support member is preferably from 0.5, more preferably from 0.7, still more preferably from 0.9, more preferably still from 1, especially from 1.1. The aspect ratio may be up to 3, more preferably up to 2.5, still more preferably up to 2, more preferably still up to 1.5, especially up to 1.3. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the aspect ratio of the flexible support member is from 0.9 to 1.4, preferably from 1 to 1.3, especially from 1.175 to 1.2.

The flexible support member may be formed from any suitable flexible material to support the subject and is preferably in the form of a sheet of flexible material. In one preferred embodiment, the flexible support member is in the form of a single sheet of flexible material. The flexible support member is preferably formed from fabric, more preferably a fabric formed from synthetic fibres. Suitable synthetic fibres include plastic fibres, for example polyolefin fibres, such as polypropylene and more preferably polyethylene. The flexible support member may alternatively be formed from other suitable fabrics including but not limited to fabric formed from natural fibres, such as cotton and hemp, and other synthetic fibres, for example polyesters, acrylics and polyamides, such as nylon.

The flexible support member is connected to the rigid support member during use of the stretcher assembly. More particularly, the flexible support member is connected at or along its first edge to the rigid support member, passes around the subject being carried and is releasably connected at or along its second edge to the rigid support member.

Preferably, the flexible support member is releasably connected to the rigid support member at or along both the first edge and the second edge.

The connection between the first edge of the flexible support member and the rigid support member may be achieved in any suitable manner. The flexible support member may be permanently connected to the rigid support member along its first edge. A permanent connection between the first edge of the flexible support member and the rigid support member may be formed, for example by bonding the edge portion of the first edge of the flexible support member either directly or indirectly to the rigid support member, such as with a suitable adhesive. Alternatively or in addition, the first edge of the flexible support member may be connected to the rigid support member by a mechanical fixture, such as rivets.

The flexible support member is preferably releasably connectable to the rigid support member at or along its first edge. A releasable connection between the first edge of the flexible support member and the rigid support member may be formed in any suitable manner. For example, the releasable connection may be formed using one or a plurality of sleeves formed in the edge portion or extending from the edge of the flexible support member. In use, the stretcher assembly is assembled by inserting the rigid support member into the one or more sleeves at or extending from the first edge of the flexible support member, preferably with the end portions of the rigid support member extending therefrom to provide handle portions. Alternative releasable connection systems include fastenings, such as buckles, hooks, clips, ropes, straps or cords.

In one preferred embodiment, the flexible support member is releasably connectable to the rigid support member along its first edge with the releasable connection formed in the edge portion of the flexible support member. In particular, the material along the first edge portion of the flexible support member is folded back onto itself and secured, such that a sleeve of material is formed along the first edge, preferably with an inner diameter substantially equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the rigid support member. The first edge may be provided with one such sleeve, preferably along substantially its entire length, or with two or more such sleeves spaced along the first edge. The connection of the edge portion of the first edge of the flexible support member to the flexible support member to form the sleeve may be permanent. The permanent connection to form the sleeve may be provided by any suitable method including but not limited to adhesives, mechanical fastenings such as staples or rivets, or more preferably a sewed connection such as stitching. Alternatively, the connection may be releasable to form a releasable sleeve that may be opened and closed as required. Suitable releasable connection means are known and include hook-and-loop fastener material.

The second edge of the flexible support member is releasably connectable to the rigid support member. The second edge of the flexible support member may be provided with a releasable connection to secure the second edge of the flexible support member directly or indirectly to the rigid support member. For example, the releasable connection may connect the second edge of the flexible support member to the rigid support member directly by a suitable connection method. A variety of suitable connection methods may be used including but not limited to releasable mechanical fastenings, such as buckles, clips, hooks or clamps and flexible fastenings such as, straps, rope or wire.

Alternatively, the releasable connection may connect the second edge of the flexible support member to the rigid support member directly in a similar manner described above to connect the first edge of the flexible support member to the rigid support member. In this embodiment, one or more releasable sleeves are provided at the second edge of the flexible support member in the manner as previously described, preferably at least two sleeves spaced apart along the second edge of the flexible support member.

In one embodiment, one or a plurality of sleeves are provided along the first edge of the flexible support member and one or a plurality of sleeves are provided along the second edge of the flexible support member. In use, the rigid support member is inserted through each of the sleeves at the edges of the flexible support member, such that the one or more sleeves at the second edge interlock with the one or more sleeves at the first edge in an alternating pattern. The one or more sleeves on the second edge of the flexible support member are preferably able to be opened to release the second edge from the rigid support member without disconnecting the first edge of the flexible support member from the rigid support member or moving the rigid support member in relation to the first edge. Preferably, the one or more sleeves on the second edge of the flexible support member comprise releasable connections to the second edge portion, such that they can be opened and released from the rigid support member. Suitable connections include releasable fastenings such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snap fasteners, studs, straps and buckles.

In another alternative embodiment, the second edge of the flexible support member may be releasably connected to the rigid support member indirectly, for example via a connection between the second edge and the flexible support member itself, preferably by having the second edge releasably connected to the edge portion at the first edge of the flexible support member. This connection is preferably provided at or adjacent the first edge of the flexible support member. Suitable releasable connections include hook-and-loop fasteners, zipper fasteners, snap fasteners, buttons and laces. Hook-and-loop fasteners are known in the art and in one preferred embodiment of the present invention a hook-and-loop fastener is provided to releasably connect the second edge of the flexible support member to the first edge portion of the flexible support member, which is connected to the rigid support member, thereby indirectly connecting the second edge to the rigid support member.

In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flexible support member comprises a single body with a first edge and a second edge. However, as an alternative, the flexible support member may comprise a plurality of similar or identical sections, each with a first edge and a second edge, spaced along the length of the flexible support member. In use, the plurality of flexible support member sections combine to provide support along the length of the subject, preferably with adjacent sections being disposed to provide a substantially continuous support surface, more preferably with adjacent sections abutting each other. The connection between each of the respective first and second edges of each of the sections and the rigid support member may be substantially the same as previously discussed.

In some circumstances it may be necessary to administer medical care to a subject as they are being transported on the stretcher. This can include but is not limited to provision of oxygen via an oxygen mask, provision of pain relief medication, hydration of the subject, monitoring of vital signs and conversation with the subject.

In order to allow the aforementioned medical care to be performed, one or a plurality of openings may be provided in the flexible support member. In use, the subject is placed on the flexible support member such that the or each opening is adjacent the part of the subject requiring attention, most preferably the head of the subject. The or each opening may be any suitable shape such as a circle, square, or more preferably a rectangle. In one preferred embodiment a first opening is provided in the flexible support member located such that, when the stretcher is in use and the subject is supported on the flexible support member, the face of the subject is accessible through the opening from a first side of the stretcher assembly. A second opening is preferably provided in the flexible support member located such that, when the stretcher is in use the face of the subject is accessible from a second side of the stretcher assembly, opposite the first opening on the first side. Preferably, in embodiments where the opening is rectangular, each opening has a length that is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rigid support member and a width that is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rigid support member.

Preferably, each opening has a length and a width with respective dimensions of at least 0.25 m and 0.1 m, more preferably at least 0.3 m and 0.12 m, more preferably still at least 0.4 m and 0.16 m. In one preferred embodiment each opening has a length of 0.5 m and a width of 0.2 m.

In use, when the stretcher assembly is not being used to transport a subject, the flexible support member may be placed into a stored position. In the stored position, the flexible support member may be wrapped around the rigid support member. Alternatively, the flexible support member may be disconnected from the rigid support member at its first edge and placed into a stored position. For example, the flexible support member may be wrapped around the rigid support member or, more preferably, stowed within the rigid support member. This arrangement provides a secure manner of storing the flexible support member, together with the rigid support member, while also protecting the flexible support member from damage.

In one embodiment of the present invention, when the stretcher assembly is in use, the rigid support member is extended and the flexible support member is suspended from the rigid support member. When not in use the rigid support member is dismantled or collapsed, for example in a telescopic fashion, to reduce its length. The flexible support member is disconnected at its second edge and may be partially or completely disconnected at its first edge and then folded and/or rolled around the collapsed rigid support member. In one preferred embodiment the flexible support member is entirely disconnected at its second edge and its first edge. The flexible support member may then be folded and/or rolled and inserted inside the dismantled or collapsed rigid support member. This serves to store the flexible support member securely and improve the portability of the stretcher assembly when not in use.

In one embodiment according to the present invention, the rigid support member is longer than the length of the flexible support member. When assembled and in use the flexible support member is connected substantially centrally on the rigid support member such that the end portions of the rigid support member extend beyond the ends of the flexible support member. In this way, the end portions of the rigid support member provide handle portions for the stretcher bearers to grip when raising, transporting and lowering the stretcher assembly. According to one preferred embodiment of the present invention the length of the rigid support member is 2.4 m and the length of the flexible support member is 2 m. Therefore, the length of each of the handle portions is approximately 0.2 m, when in use.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only, having reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a stretcher assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention, showing the stretcher assembly in a collapsed and portable arrangement; Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the stretcher assembly with a subject positioned in a recumbent position on the flexible support member; and Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of the stretcher assembly in use with a subject being transported by two stretcher bearers.

Turning now to Figure 1, there is shown a perspective view of a stretcher assembly, according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The stretcher assembly is shown in a stowed condition. The stretcher assembly, generally indicated as 2, comprises a rigid support member 4 and a flexible support member 6.

The rigid support member 4 comprises four tubular sections 4a to 4d collapsed in a telescopic fashion, such that each of the tubular sections 4b, 4c, 4d extends within the adjacent section and within the outermost tubular section 4a. When extended and locked in the extended position, the four sections 4a to 4d form the rigid support member 4. The sections 4a to 4d are locked in the extended position by pins 5.

In the stowed condition, the flexible support member 6 is folded and/or rolled and inserted into the tubular body of the innermost tubular section 4d. Figure 1 illustrates the stretcher assembly 2 when not in use and arranged to be stored and transported.

Turning now to Figure 2, there is shown a perspective view of the stretcher assembly 2 in a condition to receive a subject 20. The flexible support member 6 has been removed from within the rigid support member 4 and the rigid support member 4 has been extended to its operating length. The flexible support member 6 is a generally rectangular sheet of flexible material, in particular a polyethylene material. The flexible support member 6 has a first edge 6a and a second edge 6b along its major edges, extending parallel with the longitudinal axis of the rigid support member 4 and the stretcher assembly 2.

In the position shown in Figure 2, the first edge 6a of the flexible support member 6 is releasably connected to the rigid support member 4. The connection is provided by a stitched sleeve 12 formed from the edge portion at the first edge 6a of the flexible support member 6, such that the inner diameter of the sleeve 12 is substantially equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the rigid support member 4.

End portions 14a, 14b of the rigid support member 4 extend from each end of the sleeve 12 and provide handles for the rigid support member 4 to be gripped by stretcher bearers, as shown in Figure 3 and described hereinbelow.

It can be seen from Figure 2 that the subject 20 is positioned in a recumbent position on the flexible support member 6. Once the subject 20 is positioned on the flexible support member 6 as shown, the second edge 6b of the flexible support member 6 is brought around and over the subject 20 and releasably connected indirectly to the rigid support member 4, as indicated by the arrows. In particular, the second edge 6b of the flexible support member 6 is brought over the subject 20 and is secured to the edge portion adjacent the first edge 6a of the flexible support member 6 by a hook-and-loop fastener 22 along the second edge 6b. With the second edge 6b of the flexible support member 6 connected to the rigid support member 4, the stretcher assembly 2 and the subject 20 may be lifted using the handle portions 14a, 14b.

Turning now to Figure 3, there is shown a perspective view of the stretcher assembly 2 in use with the subject 20 being transported by two stretcher bearers 32a and 32b. The flexible support member 6 secures and supports the subject 20 during transit, in particular extending beneath and around the subject 20, while hanging from the rigid support member 4. Gravity ensures the subject 20 remains level in a recumbent position on the flexible support member 6. The stretcher bearers 32a, 32b support the weight of the stretcher assembly 2 and the subject 20 by gripping and raising the rigid support member 4 using the handle portions 14a, 14b.

As shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3, a first rectangular opening 40a is provided in the flexible support member 6 and a second rectangular opening 40b is provided in the flexible support member 6. The subject 20 is positioned on the flexible support member 6 with their head adjacent the openings 40a and 40b, such that medical attention can be provided to the subject 20 during transit. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 3, oxygen is provided to the subject 20 via an oxygen mask.

The preferred embodiment according to the present invention, as shown in Figures 1 to 3, is used in the field according to the following method: When not in use and as the stretcher bearers 32a, 32b travel to the subject 20 to be recovered, the stretcher assembly 2 is arranged in the stowed condition, as shown in Figure 1. When the subject 20 is located and reached, the stretcher assembly 2 can be assembled accordingly. The flexible support member 6 is removed from inside the rigid support member 4 and unfolded and/or unrolled. The rigid support member 4 is extended and inserted through the sleeve 12 provided on the first edge 6a of the flexible support member 6. The subject 20 is positioned on the flexible support member 6 as shown in Figure 2. The second edge 6b of the flexible support member 6 is passed over the subject 20 and attached indirectly to the rigid support member 4 as indicated by the arrows in Figure 2, using the hookand-loop fastener 22.

It will be noted that the second edge 6b of the flexible support member 6 may be connected indirectly to the rigid support member 4, by attaching the second edge 6b to the edge portion adjacent the first edge 6a without detaching the first edge 6a from the rigid support member 4 or moving the rigid support member 4 relative to the first edge 6a or the flexible support member 6. The second edge 6b may be disconnected from the rigid support member 4 in a similar manner once transport of the subject 20 is completed.

The stretcher assembly 2 is then raised by the stretcher bearers 32a, 32b as shown in Figure 3. The subject 20 is suspended from the rigid support member 4, supported by the flexible support member 6 and transported by the stretcher bearers 32a, 32b, as shown in Figure 3. Medical attention, can be provided to the subject 20 during transit via the openings 40a and 40b in the flexible support member 6 positioned close to the head of the subject 20, as shown in Figure 3.

Once the subject 20 has reached the destination, for example a safe location where appropriate medical treatment can be provided, the stretcher assembly 2 may be dismantled and returned to the stowed condition shown in Figure 1 by reversing the procedure set out above.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A stretcher assembly for securing and transporting a subject, the stretcher assembly comprising: an elongate rigid support member; and a flexible support member for supporting the subject having a first edge and a second edge, the first and second edges extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rigid support member; wherein the first edge of the flexible support member is connectable to the rigid support member; and wherein the second edge of the flexible support member is releasably connectable to the rigid support member; in use the flexible support member being connected at its first edge to the rigid support member, releasably connected at its second edge to the rigid support member and extending around the subject being carried on the stretcher; wherein the second edge of the flexible support member may be connected to and released from the rigid support member without disconnecting the first edge of the flexible support member from the rigid support member.
2. The stretcher assembly according to claim 1, wherein the second edge of the flexible support member may be connected to and released from the rigid support member without moving the rigid support member relative to the first edge of the flexible support member.
3. The stretcher assembly according to either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the rigid support member comprises a plurality of sections.
4. The stretcher assembly according to claim 3, wherein the sections of the rigid support member are arranged in a telescopic arrangement.
5. The stretcher assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the rigid support member is circular in cross section along a portion of or all of its length.
6. The stretcher assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the rigid support member is formed from a material comprising fibre reinforced plastic, metal, wood, plastic, composite materials or combinations thereof.
7. The stretcher assembly according to claim 6, wherein the rigid support member is formed from a material comprising plastic reinforced with carbon fibres.
8. The stretcher assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the rigid support member comprises one or more handle portions to be gripped by one or more stretcher bearers, when in use.
9. The stretcher assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the flexible support member consists of a single sheet of material.
10. The stretcher assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the flexible support member comprises fabric formed from natural fibres, fabric formed from synthetic fibres or combinations thereof
11. The stretcher assembly according to claim 10, wherein the flexible support member comprises polyethylene fabric material.
12. The stretcher assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the flexible support member has a length and a width; wherein the aspect ratio of the length to the width may be less than 1, equal to 1 or greater than 1.
13. The stretcher assembly according to claim 12, wherein the aspect ratio of the flexible support member is from 1 to 1.3.
14. The stretcher assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first edge of the flexible support member is releasably connectable to the rigid support member.
15. The stretcher assembly according to claim 14; wherein the connection comprises a sleeve formed from the edge portion of the first edge of the flexible support member, in use the sleeve receiving the rigid support member.
16. The stretcher assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the releasable connection between the second edge of the flexible support member and the rigid support member is formed from a hook-and-loop fastener.
17. The stretcher assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the second edge of the flexible support member is indirectly connectable to the rigid support member.
18. The stretcher assembly according to claim 17, wherein the second edge of the flexible support member is connectable to the edge portion at the first edge of the flexible support member.
19. The stretcher assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the flexible support member comprises one or more openings, such that medical attention can be provided to the subject when the stretcher assembly is in use and the subject is supported on the flexible support member.
20. The stretcher assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the flexible support member can be stored inside the rigid support member when not in use.