Abstract:
A collapsible litter carrier apparatus, system and method. Generally, the litter apparatus includes a frame assembly having a plurality of hingedly connected, longitudinally adjacent sections that are foldable or collapsible, accordion-like, into a compact arrangement when the carrier is not in use or being stored. Releaseably attached to the frame assembly is a body-supporting bed or sheet. Additionally, the frame assembly is provided with a plurality of foldable handles that are hingedly connected to the outer corners of the extended frame.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENTS  
       [0001]    The present invention claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/121,224 filed on Dec. 10, 2008, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention relates generally to litter systems and devices for use in carrying patients or casualties, and, in particular, the invention relates to a collapsible litter device that employs a detachable bed. 
         [0003]    In both the medical and military fields, there is a need for means to immobilize and transport patients and casualties. For example, in modern rescue operations, those tasked with rescuing are frequently required to move patients up and down stairs or over uneven terrain for long distances, and under extreme environmental conditions. 
         [0004]    Numerous stretchers or litters have been proposed and made available for this purpose. Of the many different types of litters, collapsible litters are of particular interest based on their convenience and utility. The ability to collapse and fold litters into a compact package is advantageous for storing, handling and transporting litters that are not in use. Even more important than providing an easily collapsible litter, however, is to provide a litter that is sufficiently rigid and strong for all purposes. Accordingly, collapsible litters should not only be compact and lightweight for transporting purposes, but they must also be rigid and sturdy in the extended position. 
         [0005]    While there exist various designs for collapsible litters or carriers, each of these prior designs is problematic. Traditional, collapsible litters tend to be cumbersome and difficult to maneuver. These litters do not allow for the angulated movement necessary to transport a patient up and down a stair case. Many traditional litters require the attachment of a mobility device to facilitate in the transport of the patient. These litters, however, still fail to provide adequate means to secure the litter in an evacuation platform, such as a helicopter or ambulance, while the mobility device is attached. 
         [0006]    Some litters are easily collapsed, but experience mechanical or other problems when extended into a rigid structure for carrying a patient. Many collapsible litters fail to remain locked in an open or extended position. Other carriers are simply too cumbersome and difficult to transport or pack. Still others are constructed from materials that are too fragile or brittle for extreme or difficult conditions. The weight of prior litters is also a problem, especially in situations where the litters must be transported in a backpack over long distances and/or in extreme weather. 
         [0007]    Additional complications can occur if the patient or casualty has to be efficiently thermally insulated as well as immobilized. Furthermore, many of the known stretchers are uncomfortable to the patient. Oftentimes, the patient will face additional risk or injury if moved multiple times from the initial location of the injury. However, most litters are generally only useful for moving a patient from one location to another. Ultimately, the patient must be removed from the litter and placed on a different bed, such as a hospital bed. 
         [0008]    Prior litter systems have also exhibited problems when a patient or casualty is being transported from a place of contamination. These litters are not easily cleaned, and typically require that the patient or casualty be removed from the litter and that the litter be discarded. 
         [0009]    Accordingly, there exists a need for a litter that is effective in any and all medical and military situations. The present invention addresses this need through a collapsible litter that is compact, lightweight, and yet rigid and sturdy in the extended position. Furthermore, the litter of the present invention can be folded and unfolded with the utmost of ease under the most adverse conditions. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0010]    The following presents a simplified summary of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify key or critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention; its sole purpose is to present concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is subsequently presented. 
         [0011]    According to its major aspects and briefly stated, the present invention includes a collapsible litter carrier apparatus, system and method. Generally, the litter apparatus includes a frame assembly having a plurality of hingedly connected, longitudinally adjacent sections that are foldable or collapsible, accordion-like, into a compact arrangement when the carrier is not in use or being stored. Releaseably attached to the frame assembly is a body-supporting bed or sheet. Additionally, the frame assembly is provided with a plurality of foldable handles that are hingedly connected to the outer corners of the extended frame. 
         [0012]    The frame assembly can be conveniently extended and rigidly locked in an unfolded position for use. When extended to support a patient or casualty, the litter rigidly and safely locks into an unfolded position. Furthermore, the locking arrangement of the litter avoids accidental folding or collapse when a person is being supported by the litter. Only by purposeful release can the litter become folded or collapsed. 
         [0013]    In particular, the frame assembly of the litter system includes a first side member and a second side member interconnected by one or more spreader members for maintaining the side members in a laterally spaced arrangement when the litter is an unfolded position. In an extended position, the spreader extends transversely in relation to the longitudinally extending side members. Each of the first and second side members includes a pair of spaced apart, substantially parallel beams or poles that form the side edges of the unfolded litter. In an extended position, the parallel poles are arranged in a vertical or upright position so that one pole is positioned on top of or over the second, corresponding pole from the pair. 
         [0014]    In an exemplary embodiment, each of the frame poles is constructed from a plurality of pole members pivotally connected for moving between a folded configuration, wherein the pole members are generally stacked one upon the other, and an unfolded configuration, wherein the pole members are generally aligned end to end in a common or parallel plane to form each of the frame poles. Additionally, between each pair of poles are included a plurality of spaced apart cross beams that are hingedly connected to and span the pair of poles. The cross beams can be located at the juncture points between the plural pole members. 
         [0015]    Additionally, the substantially parallel poles of the side members can converge at opposing, outermost ends of the side members. In one embodiment, one of the pair of longitudinal poles can be curved at each of its opposing ends so that the one, curved pole converges with the other, substantially straight pole at each end of the pole. In another embodiment, both poles of each pair of poles can be curved so as to converge at the ends of the poles. Alternatively, the poles do not converge, and each of the parallel beams of the side members is substantially straight when the litter is extended. 
         [0016]    Resembling the structure of a ladder, each side member includes cavities defined by each pair of longitudinally extending poles and the cross beams. These cavities are dimensioned to receive the spreader members and handles when the litter is in a folded position. This feature of the present invention allows for the most compact, folded configuration of the litter to be achieved. 
         [0017]    Another feature of the present invention includes the use of a “split-beam” or pair of poles as side members for the frame assembly. The use of a top and bottom beam or pole rather than a single pole alleviates the need for including additional support, such as through the use of support legs, when the litter is in use, extended and resting on a bottom support such as the ground. By providing a pair of beams, rather than a single beam, the overall strength and rigidity of the litter is greatly enhanced. Moreover, the overall weight of the frame can be decreased without sacrificing strength even if traditional construction material are used such as a metal alloy. 
         [0018]    Although a number of different dimensions and features are contemplated, one embodiment of the spreader member connecting the first and second side members includes a first pair of converging cross bars coupled to a second pair of converging cross bars that are connected the converging ends through a coupling plate. Furthermore, the divergent ends of each pair of cross bars are hingedly connected to the first and second side members, respectively. In an unfolded configuration, the cross bars are arranged in a vertical or upright position transverse to the side members. Accordingly, one cross bar from each pair of cross bars is positioned on top of or over the second, corresponding cross bar from the pair. In one embodiment, the top cross bar of each pair of cross bars is hingedly connected to the top pole of each side member, while the bottom cross bar of each pair of cross bars is hingedly connected to the bottom pole of each side member when the litter is in an unfolded position. Additionally, the spreader member is lockable, and, optionally, it is lockable in a plurality of positions based on the need for space between the side members, as well as the preferred position of the spreader member for purposes of folding and unfolding the litter. 
         [0019]    At each end of the side members is included a foldable handle. Preferably, these handles are hingedly connected to the frame assembly between the pair of pole members of the side members. Additionally, the handles are rotatable and lockable and, optionally, they are lockable in a plurality of positions based on the need of the handles, as well as the preferred position of the handles for purposes of folding and unfolding the litter. 
         [0020]    The bed portion of the litter system includes a central bed section located between the side members of the frame assembly that extends in a longitudinal direction parallel to that of the side members when the litter is unfolded. The central bed portion includes a plurality of laterally extending panels or connecting members that are dimensioned to receive and wrap around the top, opposing frame poles of each of the first and second side members when the litter is unfolded. These panels can be releasable secured to the frame by any suitable means, including, but not limited to hook and loop fasteners, grommets, cords, and adhesive. Alternatively, the bed can further include one or more straps on the surface of the bed on which a patient or casualty rests. These straps can ensure that a patient is secured to the bed during transport. Additionally, the straps can be used to further secure the bed portion to the frame assembly. 
         [0021]    Another feature of the present invention includes the use of a removable bed that can be secured to the frame to ensure that a patient or casualty remains supported and safe throughout the transported. Because the bed is removable, it can be easily cleaned or discarded if it is no longer suitable for use. Moreover, the side panels of the bed can be used as a gripping means by medical personnel to safely lift and remove the patient from the frame assembly and thereafter place the patient on another bed, such as a hospital bed or gurney. This feature reduces the risk to the patient associated with transfers from multiple surfaces and places after an injury occurs. 
         [0022]    Other features and their advantages will be readily apparent to those skilled in decorative arts, techniques and equipment from a careful reading of the Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments, accompanied by the following drawings. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
         [0023]    In the drawings, 
           [0024]    FIG. I is a perspective view of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0025]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a bed portion of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0026]      FIG. 3A  is a perspective view of a frame assembly of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0027]      FIG. 3B  is a perspective view of a frame assembly of a collapsible litter and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0028]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a frame assembly of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0029]      FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a frame assembly of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0030]      FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a frame assembly of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0031]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a frame assembly of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0032]      FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a frame assembly of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0033]      FIG. 9  is a side, perspective view of a handle portion of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0034]      FIG. 10  is a side, perspective view of a handle portion of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0035]      FIG. 11  is a side, perspective view of a handle portion of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0036]      FIG. 12  is a side, perspective view of a handle portion of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0037]      FIG. 13  is a front, perspective view of a spreader member of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0038]      FIG. 14  is a top, perspective view of a spreader member of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0039]      FIG. 15  is a front, perspective view of a spreader member of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; and 
           [0040]      FIG. 16  is a front, perspective view of a spreader member of a collapsible litter system and apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT  
       [0041]    The present invention includes a collapsible litter system and apparatus, and method for folding and unfolding the collapsible litter. As shown in  FIGS. 1-3B , the litter system  10  includes frame assembly  12  having a first side member  14  and a second side member  16  interconnected by one or more spreader members  20  for maintaining the side members  14 ,  16  in a laterally spaced arrangement when the litter  10  is an unfolded position. The litter system  10  further includes a bed  18  that is releaseably attached to the frame assembly  12 , as well as a plurality of handles  40  that can be folded in numerous directions for convenient use, storage or collapsing of the litter  10 . 
         [0042]    When the litter  10 , and thereby the frame assembly  12 , is an unfolded position, the spreader member  20  extends in a transverse direction that is substantially orthogonal to the side members  14 ,  16 , which extend in a longitudinal direction. The first and second side members  14 ,  16  include a first and second pair of spaced apart, substantially parallel beams or poles,  22 ,  24 , respectively, that extend longitudinally to form the side edges of the unfolded litter  10 . In an extended position, each pair of parallel poles  22 ,  24  are arranged in a vertical or upright position so that one pole  23  of each pair, is positioned on top of or over the second, corresponding pole  25  from each pair. 
         [0043]    In an exemplary embodiment, each of the frame poles is constructed from a plurality of pole arms pivotally connected for moving between a folded configuration, wherein the pole arms are generally stacked one upon the other, and an unfolded configuration, wherein the pole arms are generally aligned end to end in a common or parallel plane to form each of the frame poles. 
         [0044]    In one embodiment, the top pole of the first pair of poles  22  is constructed from a plurality of pole arms  27   a - d  that are pivotally connected and coupled to the frame assembly  12 . The bottom pole of the first pair of poles  22  is also constructed from a plurality of pole arms  27   e - h  that are pivotally connected and coupled to the frame assembly  12 . Similarly, the top pole of the second pair of poles  24  is constructed from a plurality of pole arms  29   a - d  that are pivotally connected and coupled to the frame assembly  12 . The bottom pole of the second pair of poles  24  is also constructed from a plurality of pole arms  29   e - h  that are pivotally connected and coupled to the frame assembly  12 . 
         [0045]    Additionally, between each pair of poles are included a plurality of spaced apart cross beams  62  that are hingedly connected to and span the pair of poles  22 ,  24 . In particular, the cross beams  62  extend about perpendicularly from the bottom pole  25  to the top pole  27  of each pair of poles  22 ,  24 . The cross beams  62  are located at juncture points  64  between the plurality of pole arms,  27   a - d,    27   e - h,    29   a - d,  and  29   e - h,  respectively. For pivoting purposes, each juncture point  64  includes one or more hinges  200  that are coupled to the frame assembly  12 , and which are shown in more detail in  FIGS. 6-8 . 
         [0046]    Additionally, in one embodiment, the substantially parallel poles  22 ,  24  of the side members  14 ,  16  include curved members so that the poles appear to converge at opposing, outermost ends, including ends  50  and  52 , of the side members. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 3A-B , bottom poles  25  of each pair of poles  22 ,  24 , can be curved at each of its opposing ends,  50 ,  52 , so that the curved pole  25  approaches a convergence point with the other, substantially straight pole  23 . In particular, pole arms  27   e,    27   h,    29   e,  and  29   h,  can each be curved and positioned so as to approach a convergence point with pole arms  27   a,    27   d,    29   a,  and  29   d,  respectively. In another embodiment, not shown, each pole of each pair of poles  22 ,  24  can be curved so as to converge at the ends of the poles. Alternatively, the poles do not converge, and each of the poles of the side members  14 ,  16  is substantially straight when the litter  10  is extended. 
         [0047]    Resembling the structure of a ladder, each side member  14 ,  16 , includes cavities  60  defined by each pair of poles  22 ,  24  and the cross beams  62 . These cavities  60  are dimensioned to receive the spreader member  20  and handles  40  when the litter  10  is being collapsed and when the litter  10  is in a folded position. This feature of the present invention allows for the most compact, folded configuration of the litter  10  to be achieved. 
         [0048]    Another feature of the present invention includes the use of a “split-beam” or pair of poles  22 ,  24  as side members for the frame assembly. The use of a top and bottom beam or pole  25 ,  27 , rather than a single pole alleviates the need for including additional support, such as through the use of support legs, when the litter  10  is in use, extended and resting on a bottom support such as the ground. By providing a pair of beams  22 ,  24 , rather than a single beam, the overall strength and rigidity of the litter  10  is greatly enhanced. Moreover, the overall weight of the frame assembly  12  can be decreased without sacrificing strength even if traditional construction material are used such as a metal alloy. 
         [0049]    Although a number of different dimensions and features are contemplated, one embodiment of the spreader member  20  connecting the first and second side members  14 ,  16 , includes a first pair of converging cross bars  70  coupled to a second pair of converging cross bars  72  that are connected at converging ends  71  through a coupling plate  74 . Furthermore, the first and second pair of cross bars  70 ,  72  are pivotally connected to the side members  14 ,  16  at divergent ends  73 , respectively. In an unfolded configuration, the cross bars  70 ,  72  are arranged in a vertical or upright position and extend transversely in relation to the side members  14 ,  15 . Accordingly, one cross bar from each pair of cross bars is positioned on top of or over the second, corresponding cross bar from the pair. 
         [0050]    In one embodiment, the frame assembly  12  includes two spreader members  20 , wherein the top cross bar of each pair of cross bars  70 ,  72  of each member  20  is hingedly connected to the top pole  23  of each side member,  14 ,  16 , while the bottom cross bar of each pair of cross bars  70 ,  72  is hingedly connected to the bottom pole  25  of each side member  14 ,  16 , when the litter  10  is in an unfolded position. 
         [0051]    In an alternative embodiment, such as shown in  FIG. 3B , the spreader member  20 ′ includes a first cross bar  70 ′ coupled to a second cross bar  72 ′ through a coupling plate  74 ′. In particular, the cross bars  70 ′,  72 ′ extend transversely in relation to the side members  14 ,  16 , and are connected to opposing cross beams  62  of the first and second pair of poles  22 ,  24 . In this embodiment, two spreader members  20 ′, are connected to the frame assembly  12 . 
         [0052]    Additionally, the spreader member  20  or  20 ′ is preferably lockable, and, optionally, it is lockable in a plurality of positions based on the need for space between the side members,  14 ,  16  as well as the preferred position of the spreader member for purposes of folding and unfolding the litter. Preferably, the spreader member  20  or  21 ′ is only unlocked by purposeful release, such as through a detent means. 
         [0053]    Although numerous alternative locking means for the spreader member  20  are contemplated for use with the present invention, one embodiment can include a ratcheting mechanism that is generally represented in  FIGS. 13-16 . In particular, each pair of converging cross bars  70 ,  72  can be rotatably lockable at a plurality of increments, such as evenly spaced increments. To engage and rotate the cross bars  70 ,  72 , a detent  78  can be activated, such as by pressing down. This detent  78  releases the cross bars  70 ,  72 , from a locked position so that the cross bars  70 ,  72  move and rotate freely until the detent  78  is released and the cross bars  70 ,  72  are locked into place at a different increment. 
         [0054]    At each end of the side members  14 ,  16 , is included a foldable handle  40 . Preferably, these handles  40  are pivotally connected to the frame assembly  12  between each pair of poles  22 ,  24 , of the side members  14 ,  16 . Generally, each handle  40  can be fully rotatable about a vertical axis that is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the side members  14 ,  16 , when the litter  10  is in an unfolded position. In addition to being rotatable, the handles  40  are lockable and, optionally, they are lockable in a plurality of positions based on the need of the handles, as well as the preferred position of the handles  40  for purposes of folding and unfolding the litter. 
         [0055]    Although numerous alternative locking means for the handle  40  are contemplated for use with the present invention, one embodiment is generally represented in  FIGS. 9-12 . In this embodiment, handle  40  is pivotally connected to an axle  80  that is connected to top and bottom poles  23 ,  25  through a first and second coupling member  82 ,  84 , respectively. Additionally, axle  80  includes a spring  88  that forces the handle  40  in the direction of a detent  90 , which is connected to first coupling member  82  of the top pole  23 . This detent  90  corresponds to a plurality of notches  92  formed either integral with the handle  40  or in a coupling means connecting the handle  40  to the axle  80 . In use, the handle  40  remains in a locked position until a positive force is applied to the spring  88  so as to compress it sufficiently to release the detent  90  from the notch  92 . The handle  40  can then move and rotate freely until the spring  88  is released and the detent  90  engages a notch  92  at a different increment. The handle can be rotatable at evenly spaced increments, including increments that are spaced apart at about 90°. 
         [0056]    Also shown in  FIG. 9  is an alternative embodiment for the handle  40 , which includes a slot  100 . This slot  100  can be used in various applications, and especially during the transport of a patient. For example, a strap or cord can be threaded through this slot  100 , which can be included in each of the handles, so as to create an additional carrying or transporting means. When threaded through two handles  40  at one end of the litter  10 , medical personnel can form a carrying strap that can be worn by the personnel in an effort to free the hands of the personnel during the transport. In situations, such as combat situations, medical personnel ideally require the use of their hands, such as to carry defense weapons. Additionally, there may be situations in which only one medical personnel is able to carry the patient. The use of a carrying strap can facilitate the transport of a patient in these and other situations. 
         [0057]    The bed portion  18  of the litter system  10  includes a central bed section  110  located between the side members  14 ,  16 , of the frame assembly  12  that extends in a longitudinal direction parallel to that of the side members  14 ,  16 , when the litter  10  is unfolded. The central bed portion  110  includes a plurality of laterally extending panels  120  or connecting members that are dimensioned to receive and wrap around the top, opposing frame poles  23  of each of the first and second side members  14 ,  16  when the litter  10  is unfolded. These panels  120  can be releasable secured to the frame by any suitable means, including, but not limited to hook and loop fasteners, grommets, cords, and adhesive. In one embodiment, shown in  FIG. 2 , each side panel  120  can include a first and second attachment member  122 ,  124 . Along the first attachment member  122 , for example, can be include a series of hooks that correspond to a series of loops located on the second attachment member  124 . 
         [0058]    Alternatively, the bed can further include one or more straps  130  on the surface of the bed on which a patient or casualty rests. These straps  130  can ensure that a patient is secured to the bed during transport. Additionally, the straps  130  can be used to further secure the bed portion to the frame assembly. 
         [0059]    Another feature of the present invention includes the use of a removable bed  18  that can be secured to the frame  12  to ensure that a patient or casualty remains supported and safe throughout the transported. Because the bed  18  is removable, it can be easily cleaned or discarded if it is no longer suitable for use. Moreover, the side panels  120  of the bed  18  can be used as a gripping means by medical personnel to safely lift and remove the patient from the frame assembly and thereafter place the patient on another bed, such as a hospital bed or gurney. This feature reduces the risk to the patient associated with transfers from multiple surfaces and places after an injury occurs. 
         [0060]    A method of collapsing the litter  10  previously described is shown in  FIGS. 4-8 . For convenience and illustration purposes, the bed portion  18  of the litter system  10  is removed so that the various pivoting motions and frame orientations can be better understood. In a completely extended configuration, the collapse of the litter  10  can begin by positively releasing the lock on any and all spreader members  20 . Depending on the orientation of the litter  10 , the spreader member can be moved up or down with relation to the side members  14 ,  16 . Preferably, the frame assembly  12  can be flipped in orientation so that the top poles  23  of the side members rest on the ground or a bottom support. In this orientation, once the lock of each spreader member  20  is released, the spreader member  20  coupling plate  74  is moved in a vertical direction parallel to a vertical axis B and about perpendicular to a longitudinal axis A, so that the cross bars  70 ,  72  of the spreader member  20  can rotate about the coupling plate  74  and longitudinal axis A to move beneath the plate  74  and towards each other. 
         [0061]    Simultaneous to the movement of the cross bars  70 ,  72 , the side members  14 ,  16  are also rotated about longitudinal axis A and moved beneath the plate  74 , as the side members  14 ,  16  are coupled to the cross bars  70 ,  72 . As illustrated in  FIG. 4-5 , the side members  14 ,  16  begin in a vertical, upright position, in separate planes parallel to the vertical axis B, when the litter  10  is extended. Thereafter, the movement of the spreader  20  in a vertical direction causes the side members  14 ,  16 , to rotate about longitudinal axis A, and to end in a co-planar position, adjacent to each other, wherein each spreader  20  extends about perpendicularly from the horizontal plane defined by the side members  14 ,  16 . 
         [0062]    Once each spreader member  20  is in a fully upright position, shown in  FIG. 5 , the spreader member  20  is rotated about a transverse axis C moved down towards the cavities  60  formed by the parallel poles,  22 ,  24  and the cross beams  64 . Preferably, the cavities  60  are dimensioned to receive each spreader member  20  so that the spreader member  20  is co-planar and flush with the side members  14 ,  16 . At any time during the collapsing of the litter  10 , handles  40  can be rotated into the cavities  60 , respectively, so that the handle are also co-planar and flush with the side members  14 ,  16 . 
         [0063]    Once the frame assembly  12  is folded so that it is completely flat, with the side members  14 ,  16  in an adjacent, co-planar relation, and the handles  40  and spreader members  20  are contained within the cavities  60 . The accordion-like folding can begin, as shown in  FIGS. 6-8 . By folding the frame assembly  12  into the flat configuration shown in  FIG. 6 , the hinges  20  located at juncture points  64  can be aligned for pivoting purposes. Referring now to  FIGS. 7-8 , when the hinges  200  are in lateral alignment parallel to transverse axis C, the pole arms can be pivoted to draw them together to the folded configuration, resembling a compressed W shape. This compact structure can thereafter be placed into a carrying means, such as a back pack for convenient storage and transport. 
         [0064]    It should be noted that each separate component forming the embodiments of the litter  10  previously described are not specifically identified by a reference numeral. Most notably, the pole arms, handles, spreader member, cross bars, coupling plates and coupling members are hingedly linked. However, the particular features of the hinges  200  are not fully described, but are shown in the Figures. Any suitable hinge means is contemplated for use in connection with the various features and components of the litter system and apparatus  10 . Similarly, although certain exemplary embodiments of locking mechanisms are shown and described, it should be understood that these are merely examples to illustrate a suitable construction for the present invention. Many substitutions and alternative embodiments are contemplated. 
         [0065]    Additionally, various materials can be used to construct the frame assembly  12 , as well as the bed portion  18 . For example, the frame assembly can be made of an aluminum alloy or other metal alloy. The frame  12  can also be constructed from a carbon fiber composite, as well as a plastic material or composite. The bed portion  18  can made from any suitable, sturdy material, including woven, non-woven, or knitted fabric made of natural or synthetic materials. 
         [0066]    Those skilled in the art of litter systems and devices arts appreciate from the foregoing description of preferred embodiments that substitutions and modification can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention which is defined by the appended claims.