Patient examination system

A patient examination system including a frame assembly, one or more motion-controlling assemblies connected to the frame assembly for moving one or more selected movable portions of the frame assembly, and a patient support assembly. The patient support assembly includes a seat subassembly including a seat cushion, a back subassembly, a footrest subassembly including a footrest cushion, and a cover element covering a top side of the seat cushion and an external side of the footrest cushion. The cover element has an exposed surface for engagement with the patient. The seat subassembly includes the seat cushion and is secured to the upper element of the frame assembly. The frame assembly is configured to support the seat subassembly relative to the floor in a lowered position thereof, in a raised position thereof, in intermediate seat positions therebetween, and in Trendelenburg positions.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a patient examination system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

As is well known in the art, two separate items of clinical furniture are needed in order to accommodate the variety of positions which may be requested of a patient. In the prior art, an examination table is used to support the patient in prone, supine, or side-lying positions. An examination chair typically is used to support the patient in a seated or semi-supine position. The need to have two separate items of furniture has a number of disadvantages, e.g., a room in which the patient is examined is usually required to be sufficiently large to accommodate the two furniture items, as well as other equipment.

Legislation in various jurisdictions has imposed a number of requirements on furniture and equipment used in connection with medical care. For example, in the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) imposes a number of requirements, and in the prior art, compliance with certain of the requirements in regard to clinical furniture has been found to be challenging.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

For the foregoing reasons, there is a need for a patient examination system that overcomes or mitigates one or more of the defects or disadvantages of the prior art. Such defects or disadvantages are not necessarily included in those described above.

In its broad aspect, the invention provides a patient examination system including a frame assembly, one or more motion-controlling assemblies connected to the frame assembly for moving one or more selected movable portions of the frame assembly, and a patient support assembly. The patient support assembly includes a seat subassembly including a seat cushion, a back subassembly, a footrest subassembly including a footrest cushion, and a cover element covering a top side of the seat cushion and an external side of the footrest cushion. The cover element has an exposed surface for engagement with the patient. The seat subassembly includes the seat cushion and is secured to the upper element of the frame assembly. The frame assembly is configured to support the seat subassembly relative to the floor in a lowered position thereof, in a raised position thereof, in intermediate seat positions therebetween, and in Trendelenburg positions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the attached drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding elements throughout. Reference is first made toFIGS. 1A-18to describe an embodiment of a patient examination system of the invention indicated generally by the numeral20. As will be described, the patient examination system for locating a patient (not shown) above a floor “F” supporting the patient examination system20. In one embodiment, the patient examination system20preferably includes a frame assembly22(FIGS. 1B, 3B, 3C, 5B, 5C) having one or more lower elements24(FIGS. 3B, 5B) at least partially defining a lower side26of the frame assembly22that is located proximal to the floor “F”. Preferably, the patient examination system20also includes one or more motion-controlling assemblies28(FIG. 5B) connected to the frame assembly22for moving one or more selected movable portions30of the frame assembly22relative to the floor “F”. It is also preferred that the selected movable portions30include an upper element32defining an upper side34of the frame assembly22that is located distal to the floor “F”. As will be described, the upper element32preferably is movable by the motion-controlling assembly28, relative to the lower element24.

As can be seen inFIGS. 3B and 5B, the patient examination system20preferably also includes a patient support assembly36including a seat subassembly38having a seat cushion40with a top side59thereof, a back subassembly42having a back cushion44, and a footrest subassembly46having a footrest cushion48with an external side63thereof. The patient examination system20preferably also includes a cover element50that covers the top side59of the seat cushion40and the external side63of the footrest cushion48. The cover element50preferably has an exterior surface52facing away from the top side59and the external side63, when the cover element50is positioned on the seat cushion40and on the footrest cushion48. It will be understood that the patient engages the exterior surface52of the cover element50when supported by the patient examination system20, unless an additional layer of material, e.g., paper (not shown), is located between the patient and the exterior surface52.

It is preferred that the seat subassembly38is secured to the upper element32of the frame assembly22, to locate the top side59of the seat cushion40distal to the upper element32. The frame assembly22is configured to move the seat subassembly38between a lowered position thereof (FIG. 1A) and a raised position thereof (FIG. 4), to at least one intermediate seat positions therebetween, and to locate the seat subassembly in one or more Trendelenburg positions (FIG. 9A).

The back subassembly42preferably is connected with the upper element32by a back linkage subassembly54(FIGS. 3D, 5E). The back linkage subassembly54is configured to move the back subassembly42relative to the frame assembly22between an upright position thereof (FIG. 1A) and a horizontal position thereof (FIG. 3A), to one or more intermediate back positions therebetween, and to locate the back subassembly in one or more Trendelenburg positions (FIG. 9A).

It is also preferred that the footrest subassembly46is connected to the upper element32of the frame assembly22by a footrest linkage subassembly56(FIGS. 3D, 5C, 5E). The footrest linkage subassembly56supports the footrest cushion48to locate the external side63of the footrest cushion48distal to the footrest linkage subassembly56(FIGS. 3C, 5C). The footrest linkage subassembly56preferably is configured to move the footrest subassembly46between a retracted position thereof in which the footrest cushion48is positioned orthogonally to the floor “F” to partially define a first gap “G1” between the seat cushion40and the footrest cushion48(FIGS. 4, 6A, 6B), and an extended position thereof (FIGS. 3C, 5A-5D), in which the external side63of the footrest cushion48is aligned with the top side59of the seat cushion40, to partially define a second gap “G2” between the seat cushion40and the footrest cushion48.

The cover element50preferably extends continuously over the top side59of the seat cushion40and the external side63of the footrest cushion48to bridge the first gap “G1” when the footrest subassembly46is in its retracted position, and to bridge the second gap “G2” when the footrest subassembly46is in its extended position.

As noted above, the cover element50covers the top side59of the seat cushion40, and the external side63of the footrest cushion48. The cover element50also covers the gap between the seat cushion40and the footrest cushion48, which varies between the relatively small gap “G1” and the comparatively larger gap “G2”, depending on whether the footrest subassembly46is in its retracted position or its extended position. The cover element50is important because it enables the user to clean the cover element50relatively easily. Because the cover element50covers the top side59and the external side63and the gaps “G1”, “G2”, cleaning the patient examination system20, if necessary, is relatively simplified.

As can be seen inFIGS. 2B and 2C, in one embodiment, the seat cushion40preferably extends between an inner end65thereof located adjacent to the back cushion44, and an outer end67that is located proximal to the footrest cushion48. The footrest cushion48extends between an inner end69thereof that is proximal to the outer end67of the seat cushion40, and an outer end71thereof that is located distal to the outer end67of the seat cushion40. Preferably, the cover element50extends over the top side59of the seat cushion40and over the external side63of the footrest cushion48, from the inner end65of the seat cushion40to the outer end71of the footrest cushion48.

As can be seen inFIGS. 2B and 2C, the cover element50preferably extends between a first end75thereof and a second end77thereof. Preferably, the first end75is secured to the seat cushion40at the inner end65of the seat cushion40. Those skilled in the art would be aware of suitable fastening means for fastening the first end75to seat cushion40at the inner end65.

It is also preferred that the cover element50covers the outer end71of the footrest cushion46. Preferably, the second end77is secured to the footrest cushion48at the outer end71of the footrest cushion48. In one embodiment, the second end77may be secured to an internal side79of the footrest cushion48. As can be seen inFIG. 2C, the internal side79preferably is positioned opposite to the external side63of the footrest cushion48. Those skilled in the art would be aware of suitable fastening means for fastening the second end77to the footrest cushion48so that the cover element50covers the external side63and the outer end71of the footrest cushion48.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the upright position of the back subassembly preferably is not orthogonal to the floor “F”. The upright position is any suitable generally upright position. For example, the upright position may be at approximately 80° relative to the floor “F”.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the one or more motion-controlling assemblies28may include any suitable means for initiating movement controllable by an operator or, if preferred, by the patient for precise positioning of certain portions of the patient examination system20, to locate the patient in one or more selected positions. In one embodiment, the motion-controlling assembly28preferably is configured to move the upper element32vertically relative to the floor between lowered and raised positions thereof (FIGS. 3A, 5A). For example, inFIG. 3B, the frame assembly22is shown in a retracted condition, in which the upper element32is positioned proximal to the lower element24. InFIGS. 5B and 5C, the frame assembly22is shown in an extended condition, in which the upper element32is positioned distal to the lower element24. It will be understood that the frame assembly22may be moved to a number of intermediate conditions, in which the upper element32is located between its raised and lowered positions. As can also be seen, e.g., inFIG. 9B, the frame assembly22is also movable to Trendelenburg conditions, in which the upper element32is positioned to define an acute angle between the upper element32and the floor “F”. From the foregoing, it can be seen that the vertical movement of the upper element32causes corresponding vertical movement of the seat subassembly38, the back subassembly42, and the footrest subassembly46.

Those skilled in the art would be aware of suitable motion-controlling assemblies. For instance, in one embodiment, the motion-controlling assembly may include one or more suitable motors “M” operatively coupled with a telescoping ram subassembly “R” (FIG. 5C). The motion-controlling assembly28preferably also includes one or more suitable controllers “Q” (FIGS. 1A, 5A).

For instance, inFIGS. 3B and 5C, it can be seen that, when the frame assembly22is moved from its retracted condition (FIG. 3B) to its extended condition (FIG. 5C), the upper element32is moved vertically upwardly, in the direction indicated by arrow “A” inFIG. 3B. Similarly, when the frame assembly22is moved from its extended condition (FIG. 5C), to its retracted condition (FIG. 3B), the upper element32is vertically lowered, as indicated by arrow “B” inFIG. 5C.

As noted above, the seat cushion40, the back linkage subassembly54, and the footrest linkage subassembly56are all mounted to the upper element32. Accordingly, those skilled in the art would appreciate that movement of the upper element32also causes corresponding movement of each of the seat subassembly38, the back subassembly42, and the footrest subassembly46.

As is known, in a Trendelenburg position, the patient is positioned with the pelvis higher than the head. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that, in order for the patient examination system20to be configured in a Trendelenburg position, for example, as shown inFIGS. 9A-9D, the upper element32is positioned at one or more acute angles relative to the lower element24.

From the foregoing, it can be seen that the patient examination system20may be configured in a variety of selected states. For instance, inFIG. 1A, the system20is configured in a first sitting state, in which the patient is supported in a lowered sitting position. InFIG. 4, the system20is configured in a second sitting state, in which the patient is supported in a raised sitting position. It will be understood that the system20may be configured in a variety of intermediate positions, e.g., vertically intermediate between the lowered and raised seat cushion positions illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 4respectively.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the reconfiguration of the system20from the first sitting state to the second sitting state, is the result of the frame assembly22being moved from its retracted condition (in which the seat subassembly38is in its lowered position) to its extended condition (in which the seat subassembly38is in its raised position).

It will be understood that the back cushion44is positionable in a horizontal position of the back subassembly42(FIG. 3A), in which the back cushion44is horizontal, or substantially horizontal (e.g., substantially parallel to the upper element32), and the upright position of the back subassembly42(FIG. 1A), in which the back cushion44is positioned to define an acute angle between the back cushion44and the upper element32. As noted above, the back subassembly42may be at approximately 80° to the floor “F” when it is in the upright position. As can be seen inFIGS. 3D and 5E, the back cushion44preferably is connected to the upper element32by the back linkage subassembly54.

It will be understood that the upper element32may include a number of discrete elongate elements (“U1”-“U4”) that are secured together (FIG. 5E). Similarly, the lower element24may include discrete elements (“L1”-“L4”) that are secured together (FIG. 5E). The frame assembly22preferably also includes the movable portions30or intermediate elements that are located generally between the lower and upper elements24,32, to connect the lower and upper elements24,32. The intermediate elements30preferably are configured to provide parallel linkages or such other arrangements as are suitable to position the upper element32as desired relative to the lower element24, using the one or more motion-controlling assemblies28. As can be seen, e.g., inFIG. 5E, in one embodiment, the motion-controlling assembly28preferably includes the motor “M” mounted to the lower element and the telescoping ram “R” that is connected to the upper element32, for vertical movement of the upper element32relative to the lower element24. The frame assembly may include a second motion-controlling assembly28′, as can be seen inFIGS. 3D, 5B-5F, 9B, and 9C.

In one embodiment, the patient examination system20preferably additionally includes a left arm assembly58and a right arm assembly60positioned on opposite sides of the seat subassembly38(FIG. 8). Preferably, each of the left and the right arm assemblies58,60are secured to opposite sides of the lower element24of the frame assembly22.

As can be seen, e.g., inFIGS. 4, 5A, and 9D, in one embodiment, each of the left and right arm assemblies58,60preferably includes only one body portion61.

However, in an alternative embodiment, it is preferred that each of the left and right arm assemblies58,60includes a lower portion62secured to the lower element24of the frame assembly22, and an upper portion64movable relative to the lower portion62between an aligned position thereof, in which the upper portion64is at least partially vertically aligned with the lower portion62above the lower portion62, and a non-aligned position thereof (FIG. 8), in which the upper portion64is at least partially located beside the lower portion62. Preferably, the upper portion64is movable between the aligned and non-aligned positions by pivoting about an axis of rotation “X” (FIG. 8). Each of the left and right arm assemblies58,60preferably includes a hinge subassembly80configured for rotation of the upper portion64about the axis “X” defined by the hinge subassembly80. As an example, inFIG. 8, the upper portion64of the right arm assembly60is shown in the non-aligned position thereof, and the upper portion64of the left arm assembly58is shown in the aligned position thereof.

The advantage of the left and right arm assemblies58,60including respective upper and lower portions is that this arrangement facilitates generally horizontal movement of the patient onto and from the patient examination system20. Specifically, and as can be seen inFIGS. 7 and 8, when the seat subassembly38is in the lowered position thereof and the upper portion64is in the non-aligned position thereof, the patient is substantially horizontally movable over the lower portion62.

For instance, the patient may be moved in the direction indicated by arrow “Y” inFIG. 8onto the cover element50on the seat cushion40. The patient may be moved in the direction indicated by arrow “Z” inFIG. 8, from the cover element50on the seat cushion40. Such movement from the seat cushion40may be, for example, onto another support device (not shown).

As illustrated inFIG. 8, in one embodiment, the upper portion64preferably includes an upper portion body66having an upper portion mating surface68and the lower portion62preferably includes a lower portion body70having a lower portion mating surface72that is formed to mate with the upper portion mating surface68when the upper portion64is in the aligned position. Preferably, when the upper portion64is in the non-aligned position and the seat subassembly38is in the lowered position, the upper portion mating surface68and the lower portion mating surface72are laterally aligned with each other, and also aligned with at least part of the exposed surface52of the cover element50. In one embodiment, the upper portions64may each include an armrest element73(FIG. 7) defining a gap “W” between the armrest element73and the upper portion body66.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that, in practice, there may be situations where the only feasible movement onto the seat subassembly, or from the seat subassembly, would be substantially horizontal. In order to control movement of the upper portion, a latch assembly74preferably is located in each of the left and right arm assemblies58,60(FIG. 10). It is preferred that the latch assembly74is movable between locked and unlocked conditions thereof, as will be described. Preferably, the latch assembly74is configured to secure the upper portion64in the aligned position when the latch assembly74is in the locked condition, and the latch assembly74is also configured to permit the upper portion64to move to the non-aligned position when the latch assembly74is in the unlocked condition.

The latch assembly74that is mounted in the upper and lower portion bodies66,70of the right arm assembly60is illustrated inFIGS. 10-18. It will be understood that the latch assembly74that is mounted in the left arm assembly58is the mirror image thereof.

In one embodiment, the latch assembly74preferably includes an upper plate76secured to the upper portion body66, and a lower plate78secured to the lower portion body70. It is also preferred that the upper plate76and the lower plate78define the axis of rotation “X” therebetween.

The latch plates76that are mounted to the upper portions64of each of the left and right arm assemblies can be seen, for example, inFIG. 7.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that, in one embodiment, the axis of rotation “X” preferably is also defined by the hinge subassembly80that is at least partially located between the upper and the lower plates76,78. The hinge subassembly80is omitted fromFIGS. 10-18for clarity of illustration. It will be understood that the hinge subassembly80may be in any suitable form. Those skilled in the art would be aware of suitable forms of hinge subassemblies.

In one embodiment, the latch assembly74preferably includes an activation element82mounted to the lower plate78and rotatable about an activation element axis84(FIG. 11). As can be seen inFIG. 10, the activation element82preferably includes a first arm86and a second arm88. Preferably, the latch assembly74also includes a latch element90pivotally mounted to the second arm88and pivotable about a latch element axis92that is parallel to the activation element axis84(FIG. 11). The activation element82preferably is movable between a first position (FIG. 10), in which the latch assembly74is in the locked condition and the first arm86is positioned pointing at least partially upwardly, and a second position (FIG. 12), in which the latch assembly74is in the unlocked condition and the first arm86is positioned pointing at least partially downwardly. As will be described, movement of the activation element82from the first position to the second position thereof causes the latch assembly74to move from the locked condition to the unlocked condition thereof.

The direction of rotation of the activation element82from the first position to the second position is indicated by arrow “C” inFIG. 10.

When the upper portion64is in the aligned position (i.e., aligned vertically with the lower portion62), movement of the activation element82from the second position thereof to the first position thereof moves the latch assembly74from its unlocked condition to its locked condition. The direction of rotation of the activation element82from the second position to the first position is indicated by arrow “D” inFIG. 12.

The latch assembly74is shown in its locked condition inFIGS. 10, 11, and 15. When the latch element90is in a locked position thereof, the latch assembly74is in its locked condition. From the foregoing, it can be seen that, when the latch assembly74is in the locked condition thereof, the upper portion64is locked in the aligned position thereof relative to the lower portion62. For example, inFIGS. 7 and 8, the upper portion64of the left arm assembly58is locked in the aligned position thereof relative to the lower portion62of the left arm assembly58. For illustrative purposes, inFIGS. 7 and 8, the latch assembly74of the right arm assembly60is in the unlocked condition, which permits the upper portion64of the right arm assembly60to be in the non-aligned position relative to the lower portion62of the right arm assembly60.

It will be understood that certain elements are omitted fromFIG. 15in order to show the location of the latch element90in relation to the upper plate76, when the latch element90is in its locked position.

Similarly, the latch assembly74is shown in its unlocked condition inFIGS. 12, 13, 14, and 17. When the latch element90is in an unlocked position thereof, the latch assembly74is in its unlocked condition. It will also be understood that certain elements are omitted fromFIGS. 13 and 17in order to show the location of the latch element90in relation to the upper and lower plates76,78, when the latch element90is in its unlocked position.

As can be seen, e.g., inFIGS. 10 and 12, the latch element90preferably is moved from the locked position thereof (FIG. 10) to the unlocked position thereof (FIG. 12) by rotation of the activation element82from the first position to the second position thereof respectively. The latch element90preferably is moved from the unlocked position thereof to the locked position thereof by rotation of the activation element82from the second position to the first position thereof.

As can be seen inFIG. 18, the latch element90preferably includes a hook portion94that engages with a stop96mounted to the upper plate76, when the activation element82is in the first position thereof, and when the upper portion64is in the aligned position thereof. It will be understood that the upper plate76is omitted fromFIGS. 15-18for clarity of illustration. (As noted above, when the activation element82is in the first position thereof, the latch element90is in the locked position thereof.) Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the stop96may have any suitable configuration. As can be seen inFIGS. 16C and 16D, in one embodiment, the stop96preferably comprises a stop frame98that includes a lower ledge101with which the hook portion94is engageable. Preferably, the lower ledge101partially defines an opening103in the stop frame98.

In one embodiment, the hook portion94preferably includes a hook body105and a point region107extending from the body105, to define a protruding region109that is protruding or proud relative to a recessed region111, that extends from the point region107toward the body105. The recessed region111is partly defined by an edge113. It will be understood that, when the hook portion94engages the lower ledge101, the edge113engages the lower ledge101, and the protruding region109tends to hold the hook portion94engaged with the stop96. Preferably, when the edge113engages the lower ledge101, the point region107at least partially extends into the opening103(FIG. 15)

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the hook portion94and the lower ledge101are configured and positioned relative to each other so that, when the latch element90is in its locked position, the hook portion94is unlikely to be inadvertently removed from engagement with the lower ledge101, e.g., if the upper portion64is jarred by an object striking it.

As can be seen inFIGS. 10, 11, and 15, when the activation element82is in the first position thereof, the first arm86preferably is in an uppermost position thereof. Also, and as can be seen inFIGS. 12, 13, 14, and 17, when the activation element82is in the second position thereof, the first arm86preferably is in a lowermost position thereof. In addition, however, the first arm86preferably is positionable at a first arm intermediate position, between the uppermost and lowermost positions thereof, as can be seen inFIGS. 16A-16D. When the first arm is in the first arm intermediate position, the latch element90is located by the activation element82in an intermediate position thereof in which the hook portion94is disengaged from the stop96, and positioned above the lower portion62.

As can be seen inFIGS. 15 and 16B, in which the latch element90is shown in the locked position and the intermediate position thereof respectively, when the latch element90is moved from the locked position to the intermediate position, the hook portion94is pivoted slightly upwardly, as indicated by arrow “E” inFIG. 16B. This upward pivoting movement is needed for disengagement so that the protruding region109can clear the lower ledge101, thereby disengaging the edge113from the lower ledge101.

It will be understood that the upper plate76is omitted fromFIGS. 16A-16Dfor clarity of illustration. It can be seen, e.g., inFIG. 16Bthat when the activation element82is in the intermediate position thereof, the hook portion94of the latch element90is located in the upper portion64, even though the hook portion94is disengaged from the stop96at that point.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that, because the lower plate78and the upper plate76preferably are mounted inside the lower portion body70and the upper portion body66respectively, it is preferred that the lower portion body70includes an opening114through which the first arm86partially protrudes, so that the operator may have access to the first arm86, to move the first arm86as needed.

As can be seen inFIGS. 11 and 14, in one embodiment, it is preferred that the lower portion body70includes a front exterior surface element115in which the opening114is formed. Preferably, the first arm86extends between an inner end119(FIG. 10) at which the first arm86is connected to the second arm88, and an outer end121(FIG. 14) that is distal to the second arm88. It is also preferred that the outer end121extends from the lower portion body70through the opening114to expose a terminal portion123of the outer end121(FIG. 14). As can also be seen inFIG. 14, in one embodiment, the terminal portion123preferably includes a knob or similar element, to enable the operator to easily grasp the terminal portion123.

In one embodiment, the latch assembly74preferably also includes a key element125connected to the lower plate78(FIG. 11) and slidably engaged in a slot127in the latch element90, for guiding the latch element90along a predetermined path as the latch element90is moved between the locked and unlocked positions thereof (FIGS. 10, 13).

Preferably, the latch assembly74additionally includes a resilient element129(FIG. 11) for biasing the latch element90to the locked position thereof when the activation element82is in the first position, and also for biasing the latch element90to the unlocked position thereof when the activation element82is in the second position thereof.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that this is achieved by utilizing an over-center linkage arrangement. Preferably, the resilient element129is a helical compression spring (FIGS. 11, 13, 16C). It is also preferred that the latch assembly74includes a biasing pin element131extending between inner and outer ends133,135thereof (FIG. 13). The biasing pin element131preferably is rotatably mounted to the lower plate78at its inner end133, and rotatably mounted at its outer end135, via a rod “T” (FIG. 11), to the second arm88of the activation element82. Preferably, the rod “T” defines the latch element axis92. As can be seen inFIG. 11, the helical compression spring129preferably is positioned on the biasing pin element131for engaging a first end137of the helical compression spring129with a pin element body139located at the inner end133of the biasing pin element, and for engaging a second end141of the helical compression spring129with the rod “T” (FIG. 11), and thereby indirectly with the second arm88of the activation element82. As a result, the helical compression spring129urges the second arm88in a first direction (indicated by arrow “K” inFIG. 10) to hold the latch element90in the locked position thereof when the activation element82is in the first position thereof, and the helical compression spring129urges the second arm88in a second direction (indicated by arrow “H” inFIG. 12) that radially diverges from the first direction, to hold the latch element90in the unlocked position thereof when the activation element82is in the second position thereof.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that, when the first arm86is in the first arm intermediate position, the latch assembly74is not biased to its locked condition, or to its unlocked condition. Because the spring129is relatively less compressed between the rod “T” and the pin element body139when the activation element82is in the intermediate position thereof, the activation element82can relatively easily be moved therefrom to its first or second positions.

As can be seen inFIGS. 11 and 16C, the rod “T” preferably is positioned substantially orthogonally to the second arm88, and also to the lower plate78. It is also preferred that the rod “T” is pivotably mounted to a lower end143of the latch element90(FIG. 14), so that movement of the second arm88causes corresponding movement of the lower end143of the latch element90. The biasing pin element131is pivotably mounted to a pivot pin145that is mounted to the lower plate78(FIGS. 11, 16C).

As can be seen, e.g., inFIG. 2A, in one embodiment, the footrest subassembly46preferably includes an auxiliary footrest cushion147, supported by an auxiliary footrest linkage149. The auxiliary footrest linkage is connected to the footrest linkage subassembly56.

From the foregoing, it can be seen that the patient examination system20meets a number of the guidelines provided pursuant to the ADA.

Some of the guidelines provided pursuant to the ADA are discussed below.A. Back Recline: The system20provides a motorized recline with infinite stops to full flat (horizontal) position, with the patient's head and back supported through the entire range of incline, as recommended pursuant to the ADA.B. Ottoman: As noted above, the system20preferably includes a motorized ottoman (i.e., the footrest subassembly46) with infinite stops to full flat (horizontal) position.C. Sleep Position: The patient examination system20provides a fully flat sleep surface “S” at a relatively low height above the floor “F” (FIG. 3B). For example, in one embodiment, the sleep surface “S” may be at a minimum19″ height, adjustable higher by motorized lift. The minimum distance151of the sleep surface “S” above the floor “F” (FIG. 3B) preferably is not more than 19″. For the purposes hereof, it is understood that the sleep surface “S” includes the exposed surface52of the cover element50and an outer surface “J” (FIGS. 3B, 5C) of the back cushion44.D. Exam Position: The patient examination system20provides a motorized lift with up to 400 lb. capacity, with infinite stops to full flat (horizontal) exam position to a maximum of 32″ in height. The distance153of the sleep surface “S” above the floor “F” (FIG. 5C) preferably is up to 32″.E. Seated Transfer Height: In the system20, this is a 19″ minimum above the floorF. Seated Transfer Surface: Preferably, the seated transfer surface is a minimum of 30″ wide×21.5″ deep.G. Transfer Arms: As noted above, the upper portions64of the left and right arm assemblies58,60are hinged to permit unobstructed transfer.H. Armrests: These serve as transfer support and rail within reach of transfer surface and respectively resist vertical and horizontal forces of 250 lbs.I. Base: As can be seen inFIG. 3B, the system20provides for a clearance distance “P” above the support surface “F” that is relatively large. Preferably, the clearance distance “P” is a minimum of 6″. This enables a portable patient lift to be accommodated.J. Stirrups: The system20includes optional removable stirrups155(FIG. 6), to provide a method for supporting, positioning and securing the patient's legs.K. Stirrup Storage: The system20includes built-in stirrup storage at the rear of unit.L. Continuous Footrest: A cushioned footrest (i.e., the footrest subassembly, and the seat subassembly) includes the cover element50having a single surface from the back of the seat to the bottom of the footrest cushion48.M. Controller: The controller “Q” may include a pendant control accessible by the patient and the operator, and also a separate lift button for controlling vertical movement.N. Power Connection Device: The system20may include a power connection device, which may include a USB port.O. Optional Steel Legs or Independently Locking Casters: As illustrated, the legs include casters. It will be understood that the legs may, optionally, not include casters.P. Optional Push Bar: As can be seen inFIG. 1A, the system20may include a push bar157positioned on the back subassembly42.Q. Armrests: The armrests73of the left and right arm assemblies58,60may be upholstered, urethane, or have solid surfaces.

Another embodiment of the patient examination system220of the invention is illustrated inFIGS. 19A-27B. As can be seen inFIGS. 19A-22B, the patient examination system220preferably includes a frame assembly222(FIG. 20B) supporting a patient support assembly236. The frame assembly222extends between front and back ends200F,200B thereof.

The patient support assembly236preferably includes a seat subassembly238including a seat cushion240with a top side259thereof, a back subassembly242including a back cushion244, and a footrest subassembly246including a footrest cushion248with an external side263thereof. An upper element232of the frame assembly222supports the seat subassembly238. As can be seen inFIG. 21D, the frame assembly222preferably includes a back linkage subassembly254for supporting the back subassembly242, and a footrest linkage subassembly256for supporting the footrest subassembly246. The patient support assembly236preferably also includes a foot support subassembly281(FIG. 19A).

It is also preferred that the patient examination system220includes a cover element250, for covering the top side259of the seat cushion240and also for covering the external side263of the footrest cushion248.

The frame assembly222preferably includes a lower element224and a number of intermediate elements230connecting the lower element224and the upper element232. The patient examination system220preferably also includes a motor or similar means (not shown), for moving the upper element232and/or the back linkage subassembly254. Preferably, the motor is controlled by a suitable controller “2Q”.

The intermediate elements230preferably are configured to provide parallel linkages or such other arrangements as are suitable to position the upper element232as desired relative to the lower element224, using the motor. The footrest linkage subassembly256preferably is mounted to the upper element232(FIG. 21D), so that vertical movement of the upper element232, which supports the seat subassembly238, causes corresponding movement of the footrest subassembly246.

Accordingly, the motor is suitably connected with the back linkage subassembly254and the upper element232that are respectively connected with the back subassembly242and the seat subassembly238, for controlling movement thereof, to locate the back subassembly242, the seat subassembly238, and the footrest subassembly246in selected positions relative to each other, as described above. Such positions include the Trendelenburg positions (not shown inFIGS. 19A-27B). Because those skilled in the art would be aware of suitable linkage assemblies and motors for movement of the portions of the patient examination system220, further description thereof is unnecessary.

Preferably, the patient examination system220also includes left and right arm assemblies258,260, as will be described.

It is also preferred that the foot support subassembly281includes a support frame283(FIG. 19C), which is secured to the frame assembly222at the front end200F thereof (FIG. 20B). As can be seen inFIG. 19C, the foot support subassembly281preferably includes step elements287A,287B, mounted to the support frame283. Preferably, the step elements287A,287B are positionable in the foot support subassembly281to partially support the patient.

It is preferred that the step elements287A,287B are movable between closed positions (FIG. 19C) and open positions (FIG. 19A) thereof. It will be understood that, when the patient is sitting in the patient examination system220, the patient may choose to rest the patient's feet on one or both of the step elements287A,287B, in their closed positions. Alternatively, and as can be seen inFIG. 19A, when the patient is sitting in the patient examination system220and the seat subassembly238is in its lowered position, the patient may prefer to have the step elements287A,287B in the open positions thereof, to enable the patient to put the patient's feet directly on the floor.

As can be seen inFIG. 20C, the cover element250preferably has an exterior surface252that faces away from the top side259and the external side263, when the cover element250is positioned on the seat cushion240and the footrest cushion248. The cover element250also has an interior surface283that engages the top side259and the external side263, when the cover element250is positioned on the seat cushion240and on the footrest subassembly246(FIG. 20D).

As can be seen inFIGS. 20C-20E, the cover element250preferably extends between first and second ends275,277thereof. It is preferred that, when the cover element250is positioned on the seat cushion240and the footrest cushion246the top side259thereof and the external side263thereof, the first end275is attached to an inner end265of the seat cushion240, and the second end277is attached to an outer end271of the footrest cushion248(FIG. 20B). In one embodiment, the cover element250preferably covers the outer end271, as well as the top side259and the external side263(FIG. 21D).

Those skilled in the art would be aware of suitable devices for fastening the first end275of the cover element250to the inner end265of the seat cushion240, and for fastening the second end277to the outer end271of the footrest cushion248. Alternatively, the second end277may be secured to an internal side279of the footrest cushion248(FIG. 21D). The cover element250may include two side flaps289(FIG. 20D) which may be respectively pushed between the arm assemblies258,260and the seat cushion240, along sides of the seat cushion240, to help keep the cover element250in position covering the top side259and the external side263. The cover element250covers the entire top side259of the seat cushion240, between the armrest assemblies258,260.

It will be understood that the cover element250preferably is removable from the seat cushion240and the footrest cushion248, e.g., for cleaning thereof, or repair thereof.

The cover element250may be made of any suitable material, or materials. In one embodiment, for example, as illustrated inFIG. 20F, the cover element250preferably includes outer, middle, and inner layers202,204,206. The layers202,204,206preferably include any suitable material or materials, attached to each other in any suitable manner. For example, in one embodiment, the outer layer202preferably is a vinyl material, the middle layer204preferably is a foam material, and the inner layer206preferably is a suitable backing material. It is also preferred that the outer layer202has a relatively high coefficient of friction, to minimize the possibility that the patient may slide when located on the cover element250.

It will be understood that a portion “XS” of the back cushion244(FIG. 19B) tends to be compressed against the inner end265of the seat cushion240, when the back subassembly242is in its upright position. It will also be understood that, inFIG. 20B, the portion “XS” of the back cushion244is omitted, for clarity of illustration. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that, as a practical matter, when the back subassembly is in the upright position thereof, the portion “XS” is compressed due to its engagement with the inner end265of the seat cushion240, and the part of the seat cushion240near the inner end265may also be compressed due to its engagement with the back cushion244.

As can be seen inFIG. 22B, it is preferred that the back subassembly242extends between inner and outer ends208,210. The inner end208is located proximal to the inner end265of the seat cushion240, and the outer end210is located distal to the inner end265. Preferably, the back subassembly242is wider at the inner end208thereof than at the outer end210thereof.

In one embodiment, the back subassembly242preferably includes a tapered portion “V” thereof, extending between a tapered portion interior end “TPI” and the outer end210of the back subassembly242(FIG. 22B). Preferably, the tapered portion “V” is gradually tapered from the tapered portion interior end “TPI” to the outer end210of the back subassembly242. Due to the tapered portion “V”, the outer end210is narrower than the inner end208. As can be seen inFIG. 22B, the advantage of the tapered back subassembly242is that the tapering in the region proximate to the outer end210permits health care providers (not shown) to be positioned in proximity to the patient's head and upper body. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the tapered portion “V” is particularly helpful in this regard when the back subassembly242is positioned horizontal, or approximately horizontal, as shown inFIG. 22B.

It will be understood that the arm assemblies258,260are attached to the frame assembly222. The left and right arm assemblies258,260preferably are positioned on opposite sides of the seat subassembly238. Preferably, each of the arm assemblies258,260is attached to the lower element224of the frame assembly222(FIG. 20B).

The arm assemblies258,260are also configured to enable health care providers to be positioned proximate to the patient. Each of the arm assemblies258,260preferably includes an armrest body270and an armrest element273that is movable relative to the armrest body270between an engaged position thereof (FIG. 23A) and an elevated position thereof (FIG. 23C), in which the armrest element273is located at a preselected height above the armrest body270. As will be described, the armrest element273is also positionable in intermediate positions between the lowered and raised positions.

As will be described, the armrest assembly260is illustrated in detail inFIGS. 23A-26. It will be understood that the armrest assemblies258,260preferably are the mirror images of each other. Accordingly, only the armrest assembly260is described in detail. InFIGS. 19A, 20A, and 21A-21C, the armrest element273of the right armrest assembly260is shown in the engaged position thereof, and the armrest element273of the left armrest assembly258is shown in the elevated position thereof, solely for clarity of illustration. It will be understood that the armrest elements273are positioned independently of each other.

As can be seen inFIGS. 24A-24C, the arm assembly260preferably includes a height adjustment device212(FIGS. 24A-26) that is controllable to move the armrest element273relative to the armrest body270. Preferably, the armrest element273is vertically movable between the engaged position thereof and the elevated position thereof by the height adjustment device212, which connects the armrest element273and the armrest body270.

Those skilled in the art would be aware of suitable height adjustment devices. In one embodiment, the height adjustment device212preferably is a pneumatic gas lift cylinder, as shown inFIGS. 24A-24C. In the height adjustment device212as illustrated, the device212preferably includes an activation lever216that may be used to activate the device, e.g., to cause the device to lift the armrest element273to its raised position, or to an intermediate position between the raised and lowered positions, or which may be used to lower the armrest element273, if a force is exerted downwardly on the armrest element273when the device212is activated. The activation lever216is shown in the neutral position thereof inFIG. 24A, and the activation lever216is shown in its activating position (in which vertical movement of the armrest element273may occur) inFIGS. 24B and 24C. Because pneumatic gas lift cylinders are known, further description thereof is unnecessary.

As can be seen inFIGS. 23A-26, the height adjustment device212preferably is mounted in the armrest body270. Preferably, the height adjustment device212is mounted in a bracket217(FIG. 26) that is secured in the body270, and sleeves218A,218B guide a movable part “PT” of the height adjustment device212in its vertical travel relative to the body270. It is also preferred that the armrest element273includes a plate “PL”, to which an upper end of the sleeve218B may be secured (FIG. 26).

From the foregoing, it can be seen that the armrest assemblies258,260have the advantage that, regardless of whether the armrest element273is in the engaged position or the elevated position or in one of the intermediate positions therebetween, the overall horizontal width “WH” of each of the armrest assemblies258,260is the same. (It will be understood that the overall horizontal width “WH” does not include the activation lever216, which extends a small distance horizontally beyond the body270(FIG. 23B).) Those skilled in the art would appreciate that, because the overall horizontal width “WH” is the same regardless of the position of the armrest element273relative to the armrest body270, health care providers can stand relatively close to the patient.

Preferably, when the seat subassembly238is in the lowered position thereof and the armrest element273is in the engaged position thereof, an upper surface299of the armrest element273is at least partially horizontally aligned with a portion “SP” of the exterior surface252of the cover element250(FIG. 21B) that is located above the top side259of the seat cushion240. It will be understood that this enables the patient to be moved laterally (while in a sitting position) onto or from the patent examination system20from or onto another supporting device (not shown), e.g., a wheelchair.

The patient examination system220preferably also includes a headrest subassembly291mounted to the back subassembly242, for locating a head rest293thereof generally proximal to the outer end210of the back subassembly242. As can be seen inFIGS. 27A and 27B, the headrest assembly291preferably includes a bracket “N” mounted to the back subassembly242and a support post subassembly295that is mounted in a bracket “N”. The head rest293preferably is mounted to a distal end “DE” of the support post subassembly295. Preferably, the support post subassembly295is movable relative to the bracket “N” between a first position thereof (FIG. 27A), in which the head rest is located adjacent to the outer end210, and a second position thereof (FIG. 27B), in which the head rest is spaced apart from the outer end of the back subassembly242by a predetermined distance “DX” (FIG. 27B).

The bracket “N” is configured to permit the support post subassembly295to be located as required, for positioning the head rest293in a selected position relative to the outer end210of the back rest subassembly242.

In one embodiment, the support post subassembly295preferably includes an intermediate bar297and first and second pivot pins “2HRP1”, “2HRP2”, spaced apart from each other by the intermediate bar297. It will be understood that the intermediate bar297is pivotable about the first pivot pin “2HRP1” and the head rest293is pivotable about the second pivot pin “2HRP2”, to permit adjustment of the position of the head rest293relative to the outer end210of the back subassembly242as required for the patient's comfort. The support post subassembly295also includes a post295A, one end of which is mounted in the bracket “N”. The first pivot pin “2HRP1” is mounted at the other end of the post295A.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention can take many forms, and that such forms are within the scope of the invention as claimed. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.