Patent ID: 6098216
Filing Date: 2000-08-08
Classification: A61G

Abstract:
A convertible patient transport apparatus, comprising:(a) a frame assembly adapted for supporting a patient;(b) a plurality of bent pivot legs attached to said frame assembly and mounted on respective wheels for rolling movement of said transport apparatus over a supporting surface, each of said pivot legs comprising a vertical upper portion, an intermediate portion formed at an angle to said upper portion, and a vertical lower portion formed with said intermediate portion;(c) said frame assembly comprising an upper frame structure attached to said pivot legs, and a lower frame structure attached to said pivot legs and vertically spaced below said upper frame structure; and(d) actuating means for pivoting said legs between an open position, wherein a distance between the lower portions of laterally adjacent ones of said plurality of legs is increased, and a closed position, wherein the distance between the lower portions of laterally adjacent ones of said plurality of legs is reduced, such that:i. in the open position, a width of said transport apparatus is expanded to move said frame assembly over a bed of the patient; andii. in the closed position, the width of said transport apparatus is narrowed.