Patent Publication Number: US-10314754-B2

Title: Patient care and transport assembly

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This Application is a Continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 12/849,197 filed on Aug. 3, 2010. Application Ser. No. 12/849,197 claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 61/231,450 filed on Aug. 5, 2009, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention discloses a versatile patient care and transport assembly, particularly suited for general transport use within a hospital or like setting. More specifically, the assembly is multi-functional and includes a patient support frame constructed of multiple sections, each including pluralities of individual patient sensors, and which can be cooperatively tilted or otherwise inter-articulated to a variety of support positions. Other features include the provision of pull-out/expandable side and end railings for patient safety. Power (i.e. quick rechargeable battery system) and drive components are incorporated into a base module upon which the patient support module is mounted in multiple elevatable and/or deflectable fashion. Also provided is paired side-by-side docking of two identical assemblies such as for facilitate patient transfer and in order to drastically reduce the risks associated with handling of patients by caregivers. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The prior art is well documented with examples of mobile bed and chair transports, such as for use in hospitals or other medical care giving facilities for efficiently moving patients. A shortcoming of the existing art has been the ability to integrate into a single and multi-functional assembly the features of powered transport, bed/chair convert-ability and adjustability for moving patients. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention discloses a versatile patient care and transport assembly, particularly suited for general transport use within a hospital or like setting. More specifically, the assembly is multi-functional and includes a patient support frame constructed of multiple sections, each including pluralities of individual patient sensors, and which can be cooperatively tilted or otherwise inter-articulated to a variety of support positions. Other features include the provision of pull-out/expandable side and end railings for patient safety. Power and drive components are incorporated into a base module upon which the patient support module is mounted in multiple elevatable and/or deflectable fashion. Also provided is paired side-by-side docking of two identical assemblies such as to facilitate patient transfer and in order to drastically reduce the risks associated with handling of patients by caregivers. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Reference will now be made to the attached drawings, when read in combination with the following detailed description, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of the patient support and transport assembly in an extended and horizontal support position; 
         FIG. 2  is a partially exploded view of  FIG. 1 , with the sensor housed and patient support cushions removed, and depicting the plurality of intermediate support portions sandwiched between the upper cushions and the underlying patient support frame; 
         FIG. 3  is a further partially assembled view illustrating, in retracted position, the expandable side and end railings associated with the patient support surface; 
         FIG. 4  is a further exploded view of the patient support sub-assembly combining the features respectively depicted in  FIGS. 1-2 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a succeeding illustration to  FIG. 1  and depicting the side and end railings in first linearly extended positions through the side slot of each cushion housing; 
         FIG. 6  is a succeeding perspective illustration to  FIG. 5  and showing the outermost articulating portion of each slide-out railing in an upwardly pivoted position; 
         FIG. 7  is a further succeeding illustration to  FIG. 6  and depicting the pivotally adjustable head and foot located display screens, combined with the side illustrated diagnostic or support components pivotally or otherwise supported upon selected railings in the engaged position; 
         FIG. 8  is a side view of the patient support and transport assembly in a first non-limiting and non-planar articulating configuration enabled by electric actuators which engage the various patient support sections interconnected along articulating joints; 
         FIG. 9  is a succeeding illustration to  FIG. 8  and depicting a pair of lower/end most support sections in further articulated positions, as well as showing the application of a flex covering or sheath applied over the pairs of cross-extending telescoping subassemblies which extend upwardly from a traversable base module, the telescoping subassemblies engaging, in articulating fashion, underside locations of the patient support frame; 
         FIG. 10  is a further side illustration of the assembly in an intermediate collapsed position and which further depicts the ability of the side located telescoping sub-assemblies to selectively elevate/lower the patient support frame relative to the base module; 
         FIG. 11  is a yet further fully collapsed illustration of the assembly and illustrating a minimum overall height such as which facilitates each of storage during periods of non-use; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective illustration similar to  FIG. 1  and illustrating the patient support sections in a further inter-articulating arrangement which includes lateral (width extending) separation of the pair of lower/end most support sections in further articulated and leg supporting positions; 
         FIGS. 13 and 14  further succeed  FIG. 12  and illustrate further lateral/articulating positions established by the leg support sections, such as in a maternal birthing position; 
         FIG. 15  is a side view and  FIG. 16  a corresponding top view of the patient support and transport assembly in the reconfigured birthing or other medically related or benefitting position of  FIG. 14  and depicting a pair of side disposed slide out trays in engaged position; 
         FIGS. 17-19  are end view illustrations of the patient support assembly and depicting reverse (side) tilted positions of the patient support surface which are enabled by selective actuation of the side supporting pairs of cross-extending telescoping subassemblies, these further articulating relative to underside supporting locations of the patient support frame; 
         FIG. 20  is a succeeding illustration in perspective similar to that shown in  FIG. 9  and depicting the assembly in an operator and pedestal supported transport position; 
         FIG. 21  is a succeeding and enlarged partial illustration of  FIG. 20  and illustrating a pair of (head) end located twist grip throttles which, in combination with repositioning of a central and head located rotated screen which exhibits touch functionality, provides the operator with maneuverability of the self-propelled assembly and which can further integrate a camera or other sensor based collision avoidance system; 
         FIG. 22  is a plan view of the patient support frame; 
         FIG. 23  is an underside perspective of the patient support frame in  FIG. 22  and further illustrating both the articulating nature of the underside frame engagement of the crosswise extending and lifting/lowering telescoping subassemblies, as well as the configuration of the electric actuators in combination with additional telescoping and pivotally interconnecting components for achieving inter-articulating support between the individual patient support cushions/sections; 
         FIG. 24  is a partial perspective of a portion of the frame with propulsion system associated with the powered and mobile base in a first linear drive position, as well as a side located docking subassembly for inter-engaging first and second identical assemblies; 
         FIG. 24A  is a first exploded view of the propulsion system; 
         FIG. 24B  is a further enlarged and rotated exploded view of the propulsion system and which further illustrates the retractable pin and arcuate track defined between the top and outer plates for accomplishing the 90° rotation of the propulsion system between forward drive and lateral docking positions; 
         FIG. 25  is a successive view to  FIG. 24  and illustrating the propulsion unit in a second position linearly advanced and rotated (0°) turn position for facilitate sideways/docking motion of the patient support and transport assembly; 
         FIG. 26  is a further skeletal perspective of the base and illustrating a variety of drive components including such as multi-function electronic boxes, oxygen tank, connection cables, etc., and further depicting a plurality of corner located and outer passive rollers for assisting in multi-direction traverse-ability of the assembly; 
         FIG. 27  is an overhead schematic view of the base and illustrating a number of the drive components identified in  FIG. 26  along with the multi-position adjustability of the propulsion unit between linear and lateral drive positions; 
         FIG. 28  is an enlarged partial perspective of the sub-systems components as arranged within the base; 
         FIG. 29  is a sectional perspective of a selected patient support cushion with vertically adjustable cushioning sensors; 
         FIG. 30  is a succeeding exploded view of the support cushion and illustrating the multiple smart sensors arranged upon an interior mounting plate, which is in turn secured in sliding fashion over a pair of rails associated with the patient support frame; 
         FIG. 31  is a schematic view of a pair of assemblies arranged in a side-by-side and docked configuration, enabled by the docking component associated with a side location of a first selected assembly and which is upwardly rotated to an engaged position with an opposing side of the second assembly; 
         FIGS. 32-34  depict, from an end view, a succession of patient transfer configurations between a pair of docked assemblies, such including the ability to pivot the first and second patient support surfaces about linear horizontal axis&#39;, either respective of one another to facilitate turning of the patient during transfer or in unison to effect sliding transfer between the support assemblies; and 
         FIGS. 35A and 35B  collectively represent a top level control schematic describing the functionality of the present assembly. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     As will be described in furthering detail with reference to each of the illustrations, the present invention discloses a versatile patient support system, such as for use with hospitals, nursing/patient care facilities and other applications. A patient support sub-assembly is supported atop a transport base and incorporates a variety of motion and articulation features that provide ease of use and drastically reduce the risks associated with handling of patients by caregivers. 
     More specifically, the assembly is multi-functional, modularized (i.e. plug-play) able to custom configure and includes a patient support frame constructed of multiple sections, each including pluralities of individual patient sensors, and which can be cooperatively tilted or otherwise inter-articulated to a variety of support positions. Other features include the provision of pull-out/expandable side and end railings for patient safety. 
     Power and drive components are incorporated into a base module upon which the patient support module is mounted in multiple elevatable and/or deflectable fashion. Also provided is paired side-by-side docking of two identical assemblies such as for facilitate patient transfer and in order to drastically reduce the risks associated with handling of patients by caregivers. 
     The patient transport assembly is generally shown in a fully assembled and maximum vertically extended patient support surface position, at  10  in  FIG. 1 . A component containing and powered base  12  is provided and includes a three dimensional body exhibiting a flattened rectangular configuration with a specified thickness. The body is supported upon a plurality of outer (typically four and may in non-limiting fashion be individually motor driven) castors or rollers  14 ,  16 ,  18  and  20  (see also  FIG. 31 ), each of these being pivotally supported at a generally outer corner location of a structural frame, and as best depicted by sides  22  and  24  and interconnected ends  26  and  28  in  FIG. 26 . As further shown, any suitable supporting bracketry can be employed for traversably supporting the base, and such as depicted by horizontal extending and spacing brackets as at  30  in  FIG. 26  for selected roller  14  as well as underside attaching bracket  32  for further selected roller  16 . In this fashion, the outer rollers provide passive and multi-directional traverse-ability of the assembly. 
     As best shown in the skeletal view of  FIG. 26 , the base  12  integrates a variety of drive components including such as multi-function electronic boxes  34 ,  36 ,  38  and  40 , oxygen tank  42  (or other fluid pressurized tank also contemplated to include hydraulics or other fluids), connection cables and associated windup housing  44  with externally accessible plug adaptor  45  secured to an end of a power cord retractable from said housing  44  and such as which can engage a suitable input location (see further at  47  in  FIG. 26 ) to operably tether the motion of both first and second patient support surfaces associated with a pair of docked assemblies (see also  FIG. 34 ) in a manner to facilitate patient transfer. Otherwise, the arrangement and type of powered components associated with the base is understood to be easily modifiable and with the understanding that additional or other components can be integrated into the assembly without departing from the scope of the invention. 
     As shown, the boxes  34 ,  36 ,  38  and  40  are housing units embedded in the base chassis. They are plug-play by nature and contain various sub-systems to operate the product. In one non-limiting application, selected ones of the boxes  34 - 40  can be labeled as:
         a) Main Electronic Control Unit (i.e. ECU)—acts as the brain of the product and coordinates/manipulates/orchestrates all automated functions;   b) Main Central Processing Unit (i.e. CPU)—processes all the functions activities;   c) Battery System—contains all the powertrain system. It houses the battery pack, BMS, invertor/convertor, junction box and charger for a 48V system;   d) Auxiliary Unit—contains the black recorder (to register all the operations carried out by the caregiver/patient/specialist), contain communication systems (i.e. WiFi, Bluetooth, radio) to connect with the institute&#39;s network.       

     In one application, the internal communication protocol established between the black boxes is coordinated via a CAN bus system. Each wire/cable used is shielded to avoid EMF/EMI interface. The drive train of the product (i.e. steering/braking/acceleration/de-acceleration) can further be enabled via a bi-wire system. 
     It is also noted that the storage tank is embedded in the chassis along with a retractable power cord and data-communication cable (i.e. used when the patient is being transferred and allows two beds to communicate during transfer (see as again identified at  44  and  45  in  FIG. 26 ). In this fashion, the assembly can operate in a network centric fashion in which the drivetrain is based on an electric or other suitable motor design (i.e. two motors coupled together and attached to drive wheels. The motor allows for travel forward/reverse/side to side and zero turn features and it is also understood that an alternate drivetrain design can be substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. This can further include, without limitation, any drive system integrating a single motor controlling all the wheels, a pair of motors controlling the front and rear wheels, respectively, or a system with four motor for each of the wheels. 
     A propulsion unit, generally depicted at  46 , is provided and includes a pair of opposite end supported drive wheels  48  and  50  (see as best shown in  FIG. 24 ). The propulsion unit  46  is shown in a forward drive position in  FIG. 24 , and in which it is at a generally rear-most aligned location relative to the spaced apart rollers  14  and  20 . A pair of interior spaced and linear extending rails  52  and  54  are built into the frame extending between end  26  and an intermediate inner and width extending support  56  as depicted in  FIG. 26 . 
     The rails  52  and  54  exhibit a generally polygonal (square) shape in cross section, again  FIG. 24 , and each includes an inner projecting ledge, further at  58  and  60 , which is designed to seat and traversably support an outer facing recess or slot associated with each of a pair of flanges  62  and  64  secured to a top of the propulsion unit  46 . In this manner, the propulsion unit  46  can be repositioned both linearly along the rails  52  and  54  (see intermediate linearly displaced position  46 ′ in  FIG. 27 ) as well as being further linearly/interiorly displaced and rotated to a 0 degree position as depicted at  46 ″ (see each of  FIGS. 25 and 27 ) at which the propulsion unit is reconfigured at a generally intermediate and sideways rotated position in order to enable the base  12  to be laterally displaced, this such as during docking with a second similarly constructed assembly and as will be described in further detail with reference to  FIGS. 31-34 . 
     The construction of the propulsion unit  46  is further such that the upper end supporting flanges  62  and  64  are mounted to a top plate  66  ( FIGS. 24-25 ) which is non-rotatable but traversable along the rails  52  and  54  between the initial  46 , first linearly displaced  46 ′ and second displaced/rotated  46 ″ positions. An inner perimeter defining circular profile is formed in the top plate  66  and is generally hidden in the series of assembled views  24 - 27  of the propulsion unit. 
     An outer plate  68  (see again  FIGS. 24-25 ) includes a top plate  70  which seats upwardly through the inner profile of the top plate  66  in a supported and rotational manner. The outer plate  68  in turn supports the associated components of the propulsion unit, including the outer wheels  48  and  50  and associated drive and control features for operating the unit  46 , this further depicted in  FIGS. 24-25  as integrated into a housing  72  rotatably mounted with and supported underneath the outer plate  68  in non-interfering fashion with the inner rails  52  and  54  and the remaining frame of the base, and with the housing  72  connected to the power supply integrated into the base. 
       FIG. 24A  is a first exploded view of the propulsion system, with succeeding  FIG. 24B  a further enlarged and rotated exploded view of the propulsion system. Additional to the features previously identified, a retractable pin assembly is provided and which (as best shown in  FIG. 24B ) includes a main upper cylindrical shaped body  47 , an intermediate annular ledge  49  and a downwardly and reduced diameter seating portion  51 . 
     As shown, the pin assembly seats in projecting fashion through an edge proximate location of the top plate  66  defined by an inner annular/perimeter extending wall  53  which supports an end face of the annular ledge  49  and permits the reduced diameter pin to extend there through into aligned engagement with a first like shaped aperture  55  established at a first location of the outer plate  68 . Upon upwardly retracting/unseating the pin assembly, the outer plate  68  is unlocked from the top plate  66  and is permitted to be rotatably actuated 90° to a crosswise position (see also  FIG. 25 ) at which the pin  51  is reseated downwardly into a second aperture  57  in the outer plate  68 . 
     As further shown, an array of pins  59  surrounds and seats circumferentially through perimeter aperture locations  61  within the annular ledge  49  and additional aligning locations  63  surrounding the perimeter location  53  in the top plate  66 . Any suitable power elevating or retractable input, such as including an EM (electromagnet) or other suitable structure, can be employed for elevating the pin assembly such that the lower/reduced diameter portion  51  retracts from engagement with the either of the apertures  55  or  57  in the outer plate  68 , and to thereby permit the outer plate to rotate between the operating positions depicted in  FIG. 27 . 
     Assembly of the outer plate  68  to the underneath located drive housing  72  is facilitated by first and second identical pluralities of bolts  65  and washers  67  which seat through aperture arrays  69  and  71  at locations approximate opposite sides of the outer plate  68 . As best shown in  FIG. 24B , the bolts  65  (which can be threaded along their stems) can rotatably inter-engage additional interiorly threaded locations associated with interior apertures  73  exhibited upon opposing upper faces of both first and second side locations of the drive housing  72 . 
     The top plate  70  is best shown in  FIG. 24B  and includes a circular array of recesses  75 . A circular projection  77  associated with the outer plate  68  includes an aligning array of recesses  79  such that bolts  81  secure the top plate  70  in overlaying fashion upon an central and inner rim  83  of the top plate  66  with the circular projection  77  seating within the rim  83 . A bearing collar  85  is shown and is sandwiched under the top plate  70  and coaxially between the annular projection  77  and the inner rim  83  to provide reinforcing and rotational support during actuation. Additional fasteners  87  and  89  mount inner rail receiving portions  91  and  93  to the upper end supporting flanges  62  and  64 , see additional aperture patterns  95  and  97  in  FIG. 24B , for receiving the frame supported rails  52  and  54 . 
     In this fashion, the propulsion unit operates to selectively drive the base along with its outer (passive) rollers  14 - 20  and in either or both longitudinal or lateral (crosswise) directions. An elongated and “U” profile guide  74  is provided (see  FIGS. 26-27 ) extending underneath the rails  52  and  54  from the rear end  26  to the intermediate and crosswise extending inner frame support  56 , this in order to guide the rotation motion of the drive wheels  48  and  50  of the propulsion unit to the 0 degree docking position of  FIG. 27 . 
     As best depicted in the partial perspectives of  FIGS. 24-25 , this in combination with the schematic of  FIG. 31 , a docking subassembly is generally shown at  76  and is supported in proximity to a selected side  22  of the frame. The docking subassembly includes an electric motor  78 , such as secured by an associated bracket to an exterior surface of the frame  22 . A chain drive  80  ( FIG. 25 ) extends from a take-off shaft of the motor and engages a gear  82  mounted to a linear extending shaft  84 . 
     Although not shown, the shaft  84  is rotatably supported by suitable bracketry or like supports along proximate side locations of the frame. Also secured to the shaft  84  are a pair of “L” shaped and angled docking claws  86  and  88  which are actuated (see as best shown in  FIG. 31 ) in a substantially ninety degree range so that the outer angled portions of the claws  86  and  88  are rotated, to positions  86 ′ and  88 ′, in order to engage inner facing locations of an opposing side frame portion (such as at  24  associated with an identically configured patient transport assembly as referenced at  31 ) in a side-by-side docking protocol as depicted in  FIGS. 31-34 . Also, and following a description of the remaining structure of the patient transport assembly, this including the patient support subassembly, a more detailed description will be provided of the various patient transfer protocols associated with succeeding illustrations  FIGS. 32-34 . 
     As will be described in combination with the succeeding description of the telescoping lifts and interconnecting and inter-articulating planar support sections which collectively define the patient support surface, the base  12  provides a weighted and very low center of gravity pedestal necessary for both supporting the patient and permitting reconfiguring of the patient support surface in each of horizontal/planar ( FIGS. 1-7 ) and tilted ( FIGS. 17-19 ) positions, and in addition to various inter-articulating ( FIGS. 8, 9 and 12-16 ) positions. As further illustrated throughout the drawings, first and second pairs of crosswise supported and telescoping lift cylinders are provided in pivotally supported and first and second side proximate positions of the base. These are depicted by a first pair of telescoping or otherwise extensible supports  90  and  92 , located in opposing and crosswise fashion proximate the side  22 , and by a second similarly arranged pair of telescoping or like extensible supports  94  and  96  located proximate the other side  24  and in generally longitudinally aligning fashion with the first pair of telescoping supports. 
     As best shown by a comparison of  FIG. 26  with  FIG. 1  et seq., each of the telescoping supports includes an outer tubular portion (again depicted by each of  90 - 96 ), each of which are pivotally secured at  98 ,  100 ,  102  and  104  (see  FIG. 26 ) to inside frame locations of the base. Hidden from view in  FIG. 26  are the inner and extensible tubular portions and which are best depicted at  106 ,  108 ,  110  and  112  in  FIG. 12 . 
     Fluid lines (not shown) extend within the interior of the frame structure from the pressurized air tank  42  to a communicating location with each of the telescoping supports  90 ,  92 ,  94  and  96  and, in combination with associated electrical/pneumatic switches, cause the telescoping supports to be selectively or cooperatively actuated in a number of different possible configurations as will be subsequently described. It is further noted that the pressurized tank  42  is designed in one variant to hold an inert fluid that reacts to electrical pulses which in turn changes a support profile associated with the surface supporting cushions and sensors further described in reference to  FIGS. 29-30 . 
     As again shown in  FIG. 26 , each extending end of the inner tubular portions  106 ,  108 ,  110  and  112  is configured with an articulating permitting fitting, see further at  114 ,  116 ,  118  and  12 . A patient support frame is generally referenced in plan view in  FIG. 22  and includes a plurality of interconnecting support sections, these including a main upper body section  120 , intermediate section  122 , and pairs of lower leg sections  126  &amp;  128  and  130  &amp;  132 . 
     As best shown in the underside perspective of the patient support frame in  FIG. 22 , the articulating nature of the underside frame engagement of the crosswise extending and lifting/lowering telescoping subassemblies is depicted by the articulating relationship (interpreted to include both pivotal and eccentric motion when required) established between the upper end extending fittings  114 ,  116 ,  118  and  120  of the telescoping tubular supports and respective engagement locations with the intermediate patient support section  122  and upper support section  120 . Each of the individual frame sections  120 - 130  further includes a grid or other configured arrangement of inter-supporting members, as again best shown in  FIG. 22 . 
     Also depicted are pluralities of electric actuators in combination with additional telescoping and pivotally interconnecting components for achieving inter-articulating support between the individual patient support cushions/sections. Referring to  FIGS. 22 and 23  collectively, these are depicted by electric actuators  132  and  134  with corresponding telescoping/driving cylinders or supports  136  and  138  for pivotally re-adjusting the upper body frame section  120  relative to the mid-section  122 . The pairs of leg support frame sections  124 / 126  and  128 / 130  are either inter-articulated or collectively actuated by additional located actuators  140  &amp;  142  and  144  &amp;  146 , these along with corresponding drive cylinders  148 ,  150 ,  152  and  154 . 
     As best shown again with reference to the underside perspective view of  FIG. 23 , each actuator and drive cylinder subassembly includes a two piece telescoping body including inner and outer tubular sections similar to that associated with the main telescoping lifts  90 - 96  and  106 - 112 . As further shown, opposite ends of each of the inner and outer tubular members are pivotally mounted to locations associated with succeeding patient support sections (see for example at  156  and  158  for selected cylinder  150  in  FIG. 23 ), such that pressurization of the drive cylinder  150  by the proximately mounted actuator  142  will cause a desired degree of bi-directional separation (in or out) in order to pivotally inter-adjust the patient support frame sections in any of a number of desired configurations as illustrated throughout the drawings. 
     Also depicted at  160  and  162  in  FIG. 23  are articulation joints established between selected frame support sections  122  and  128  and between  128  and  130 . Additional joints are provided at the extending edge interfaces between each of frame section and, as shown in the plan view of  FIG. 22 , this includes additional articulation joints  164  (between sections  128 / 130 ),  166  (between leg support sections  128 / 130 ),  166  (between intermediate section  122  and leg section  124 ) and at  168  (between leg support sections  124 / 126 ). On this point, it is noted that the hinge or joint  160  between upper section  120  and intermediate section  122  is continuous, whereas the individual hinge pairs  162 / 164  and  166 / 168  established between the leg support frame sections  124 / 126  and  128 / 130  enable the leg sections to be additionally and selectively inter-articulated in the fashion shown in  FIGS. 12-16 , this in one notable application to provide a maternity/birthing support platform. 
     For purposes of ease of clarity and presentation, a processor and appropriate input is associated with the electronic boxes and cabling to the various frame components, as well as for actuating the several patient frame support sections individually or collectively. Such a process and input controls is understood to operate in any of a number of defined fashions, such as remotely or wirelessly via a hand-held unit, however is also understood to include a hardwired control scheme easily accessed and operable from an access location associated with the patient support sub-assembly. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 3 , a plurality of expandable side and end railings are supported upon the patient support frame sections and are depicted in first retracted positions. Viewing  FIG. 3  in combination with  FIGS. 5-7 , these include side railings  170 ,  172  and  174  on one side and  176 ,  178  and  180  on the other (these corresponding with patient frame sections  120 ,  122  and  124 / 128 ). Front end  182  and rear end  184  pull out rail sections are further shown, with the end railing  184  being configured as a pair of identical split sections owing to the ability to separate the leg support sections as shown in  FIG. 12 . 
     The pull out side and end railings each include upper and lower sections which are hingedly interconnected and which are supported in retracting fashion relative to a plurality of frame covering sections shown at  186  and  188  (for frame section  120 ), at  190  for frame section  122 , at  192  for frame section  128 ,  194  for frame section  124 , at  196  for frame section  130  and at  198  for frame section  126 . As best shown in  FIG. 2 , each of the under surface frame covering sections  186 - 198  exhibiting a rectangular upper surface with a plurality of apertures for installing over the frame sections  120 - 130 . 
       FIG. 4  best illustrates one arrangement in which the side railings  170 - 174  &amp;  176 - 180  and end railings  182 / 184  are supported atop the under frame sections  120 - 130 , with the covering sections  186 - 198  sandwiching the rails and further which permit the pull-out railings to be extended outwardly ( FIG. 5 ) and subsequently pivoted upwardly ( FIG. 6 ) along articulating hinges separating the upper patient restraint sections and lower connecting sections associated with each railing. Although not shown, a suitable locking structure can be employed for fixing the railings in their fully engaged positions of  FIGS. 6-7 . 
       FIGS. 1 and 4-7  depict a plurality of surface supporting cushion sections  200 ,  202 ,  204 ,  206 ,  208 ,  210  and  210  which generally align with and secure over the various frame covering sections  186 - 198 , underneath located pullout side  170 - 174  &amp;  176 - 180  and end  182 / 184  rails, and under-supporting frame sections  120 - 130 . As shown, cushion sections  200 / 202  and frame covering sections  186 / 188  overlay upper patient frame section  120 , with remaining cushion sections  204 - 212  corresponding with frame covering sections  190 - 198  and frame sections  122 - 130 . 
       FIG. 29  is a sectional perspective of a selected patient support cushion  206 , and which exhibits a generally rectangular and three dimensional configuration with a depth extended outer lip  214  which is configured to include a horizontal slot (see inner perimeter surface  216 ) for permitting extraction therethrough of the associated side pull out drawer or railing  174 . An extension lock button  218  is depicted and permits pull-out extension of the selected rail  174  in the manner previously described. 
     As also depicted in succeeding exploded view of  FIG. 30  is an exploded view of the cushion  206  and within which is supported a plurality of individual patient support (smart) sensors  220 ,  222 ,  224 , et seq. The sensors are secured upon a durable aluminum mounting plate  226  over which is assembled the cushion  206 , which further can exhibit a plasticized or like durable construction and which includes a pre-molded underside profile or seat  228  as shown in partial cutaway and which permits an uppermost portion of each sensor to project through an aperture  230 ,  232 ,  234  et seq. configured in the upper surface of the cushion  206 . As will be further described in additional detail, the smart panels (i.e. mattress) and the associated sensors assist in reducing or eliminating muscle atrophy, poor blood circulation and bed sores so to reduce blood clots. 
     As further shown, the sensors are internally spring loaded or otherwise individually pressurized such that an uppermost portion of each projecting above the apertures in the cushion is vertically displaceable (see bidirectional arrow  236  in  FIG. 29 ) in a fashion which provides a measure of patient support and cushioning. Additionally, the sensors can incorporate various types of smart technology and may interface with processor inputs either on-board the patient transfer assembly or remotely activated (such as again wirelessly) for providing such as massage, therapeutic or other suitable functionality. 
     In one embodiment, the surface technology employed with the present invention is made of up modularized smart panels (or zones). These panels are designed to be “plug and play” in nature and to be attached to the articulating frame of the device. The panels contain all sensors receivers and embedded electronics (i.e. these being “sandwiched” together). 
     In a further desired configuration, the panels are secured with a quick-disconnect/release connector to the chassis. All data (such as is collected in real time) from the sensors is transmitted to an associated central processing unit (CPU) via a communication network. Although not shown, the sensors as described herein are arrayed in such a fashion that they are embedded by a medical grade inflatable bladder-like material, with the bladder operable to inflate/deflate via a number of known technologies including but not limited to electro-magnetic technology. The individual sensor containing panels (or cushions) as described herein can be programmed to work in sequences or randomly to change the profile of the panel when critical events occur. In application, a standard bed sheet can be fitted over the top surface defined by the collective panels. 
     Additional considerations include the sensors being multi-functional in nature and which can provide output directed relating to any or all of measurement, pressure (provides data on load/force and firmness of the panel and determine if patient is out of bed/fallen or tipped out) and temperature (provides climate data to adjust a panel temperature (increase heat or cool as needed for patient comfort and senses a patient&#39;s body temperature). Capabilities of the sensors can further include load cells which operate in aggregation in order to measure a weight of the patient in bed. 
     Additional sensor functionality and capability envisions the integration of moisture sensors (such as reading and outputting a signal correlated to a humidity input and provides data on the moisture in the panel created by the patient). Motion sensors can also be incorporated and which read such as vibration (provides automated stimulation), tilt+angular+pitch+roll (i.e. MEMS sensor system to control COG) and friction (provide data for patient transfer). Level sensors can also be utilized to measure such as a fluid level in the storage tank and which are utilized in combination with motion sensors placed on each bed railing for indicating movement of the bed rails. 
     Although not shown, a suitable wiring or contact structure can be employed for independently or cooperatively actuating or taking readings from any number of sensors, which are further designed to be easily removable or replaceable from the mounting plate  226  and this can include integration of snap-in connections or other quick connect structure. Also not shown is the provision of a flexible and fluid protection membrane which can be applied over the patient supporting arrangement of cushions such as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     A pair of supporting rails are shown at  238  and  240  for mounting atop such as a selected one of the covering sections  192  and as best shown in  FIG. 4 . Each of the rail exhibits a laterally extending lip or ledge (see at  242  and  244  for rails  238  and  240 ) for providing sliding support of seating interior facing recess profiles  246  and  248  associated with parallel and end extending pedestal locations associated with the mounting plate  226 . Without limitation, the support plates, associated sensors, and outer cushions can be mounted in other configurations not shown in order to provide adequate patient support and to permit a cushion sub-assembly to be quickly detached from the patient support frame for ease of servicing or replacement of components. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 1 , the telescoping and patient lift supports can be further assisted by the incorporation of one or more auxiliary and reinforcing lift cylinders, and such as further being referenced at  250  in pivotally mounted fashion to both a recessed location of the base  12  and the indicated telescoping lift  96 . The top surface configuration of the base  12  further exhibits a pair of side disposed and linearly extending channels (see inner surfaces  252  and  254 ) which seat the cross wise extending tubular supports  90 / 92  and  94 / 96  when collapsed from their most upright extended position ( FIG. 1  which represents the patient support surface at a height typically but not limited to 42″ from a ground surface) to a fully collapsed and non-use or storage position shown in  FIG. 11  in which retracted and lowered tubular supports are seated within the recessed extending sides of the base  12  and the top surface of the patient support sub-assembly is reconfigured to a minimal height (such as typically but not limited to 12″ from the ground supporting surface). 
       FIGS. 9-10  further depict a stretch fabric  256  of suitable construction which can be installed between the underside of the patient support frame and the upper surface of the base  12 , such as shown in reference to selected pair  94  and  96  of cross wise extending telescoping supports, and which provides advantages including both neatness of appearance as well as helping to prevent interference of outside objects with the path of travel of the supports. It also provides a water tight membrane to allow for standard “wash down” procedures. A dual position tilt pedal  258  (see  FIG. 1 ) is further depicted and which can provide either powered or manual pivoting of the patient support surface in the succession of end views shown in  FIGS. 17-19 , and in which the multi-articulating aspects of the tubular supports are shown with respect to their underside engagement with the patient support frame sections. 
     A pedestal support location  260  is provided upon the base  12  and, upon converting the patient support surface to the configuration depicted in  FIG. 20  (in which upper frame section  120  and supporting cushions  200  and  202  are angled upwardly with respect to the middle frame section  122  and with the lower leg supporting sections  124 - 130  and associated supporting cushion sections  206 - 212  being either angled downwardly as further shown at  206 ′ and  208 ′ in  FIG. 9  or maintained level with the middle section  122 ), an operator  2  (in phantom) can step onto the platform  260  and grip a pair of twist grip throttles  262  and  264  which extend in angular fashion relative to supporting locations  266  and  268  configured at the end of the upper body frame section  120 . 
     An operator screen  270  is depicted, located between the twist grip throttles  262  and  264  and which is rotatable from an initial position shown in  FIG. 1  to provide an operator screen display for enabling the user to propel the assembly. As an aside, and referring to  FIG. 7 , secondary tilt screens are shown at  272  and  274  mounted to the lower end located pull out rail  184  and which can be cooperatively wired into the electrical architecture (or wirelessly communicated) associated with the patient support assembly and associated diagnostic tools. Additional non-specific examples of diagnostic tools are also depicted in  FIG. 7  at  276  and  278  and which, in a patient examination mode provide a variety of diagnostic and monitoring functionality to the assembly and to existing caregiver diagnostic equipment (not shown) wirelessly or via network connection. 
       FIG. 21  is a succeeding and enlarged partial illustration of  FIG. 20  and again illustrates the pair of (head) end located twist grip throttles  262  and  264  which, in combination with repositioning of a central and head located rotated screen  270  which is further depicted in a mode which exhibits touch functionality, provides the operator  2  with maneuverability of the self-propelled assembly. This is accomplished by the operator  2  accessing a software program, protocol and/or associated mobile application, which exhibits each of drive D, reverse R and maneuver M modes, these further capable of being selectively activated utilizing touch screen technology or the like. 
     In one non-limiting application, forward propelling motion of the assembly is accomplished by twisting both grip throttles  262  and  264  evenly and in the same (forward) direction. Left/right motion is further envisioned as accomplished by modifying the degree of twist of each of the throttles  262 / 264 , such as either individually or with respect to each other. A collision avoidance system (not shown) can be integrated into the assembly such as utilizing cameras or other proximity sensing technology and in order to reduce the incidences of collisions. 
     The progression of views depicted from  FIGS. 12-16  illustrate further the lateral/articulating positions established by the leg support sections, such as in a maternal birthing position, with  FIG. 15  being a side view and  FIG. 16  a corresponding top view of the patient support and transport assembly in the reconfigured birthing position of  FIG. 14  and depicting a pair of side disposed slide out trays  174  and  180  in engaged position. As previously described, the patient support functionality includes the ability to activate the individual actuators and drive cylinders associated with the varied and inter-articulating patient support sections in any manner desired in order to reconfigure the patient support from the flat configuration of  FIG. 1  to any (inter) adjusted position such as depicted. 
     As further previously described,  FIGS. 17-19  are end view illustrations of the patient support assembly and depicting reverse (side) tilted positions of the patient support surface which are enabled by selective actuation of the side supporting pairs of cross-extending telescoping subassemblies, these further articulating relative to underside supporting locations of the patient support frame. 
       FIG. 31  again is a schematic view of a pair of assemblies  10  and  10 ′ arranged in a side-by-side and docked configuration, enabled by the docking component  76  associated with a side location of a first selected assembly and which is upwardly rotated to an engaged position with an opposing side of the second assembly (e.g. such as again gripping an inside of the side extending frame of the second assembly  10 ′). A cable  280  is shown which extends between connection locations  44  and  44 ′ associated with the patient assemblies  10  and  10 ′, and which provides an optional attachment for cooperatively slaving the motion of the patient support surfaces in order to effect patient transfer. 
       FIGS. 32-34  depict, from an end view, a succession of patient transfer configurations between a pair of docked assemblies, such including the ability to pivot the first and second patient support surfaces about linear horizontal axes, either respective one another to facilitate turning of the patient during transfer or in unison to effect sliding transfer between the support assemblies. Patient transfer can also include such techniques as turning the patient  4  in the manner depicted. Referring again to  FIG. 34 , the secondary patient support surface can be slaved to the pivoting of the main support surface (again such as through the use of the slaving cable  280  which can connect to input locations of the assemblies via a flip up door  282  or the like), this in order to slide the patient from the first support surface to the second such surface. 
       FIGS. 35A and 35B  collectively represent a top level control schematic describing the functionality of the present assembly according to one non-limiting variant and which designates, at  284 , a suitable processor designated as a master controller unit (MCU) which controls all input and output functions associated with the operation of the various componentry associated with the present system. The MCU  284  interfaces with three main sub-systems, which are segregated into each of a chassis system layout  286 , a drive system layout  288  and an energy storage system  290 . 
     Addressing first the chassis system layout  286  in  FIG. 35A  (such as is associated with various componentry in use with the patient support subassembly), data storage information is collected via a black box recorder  292  which interfaces with the MCU  284 . The recorder  292  interfaces in two way communicating fashion with a wireless router receiver  294 , which in turn communicates with a Bluetooth® enabled component  296 , each of these likewise communicating with the MCU  284 . 
     An AM/FM Radio module  298  is depicted (this providing RAM memory storage in communication with the MCU  284 ), as is a CPU Diagnostic Memory/Storage component  300  which is in two way communication with the aforementioned black box recorder  292 . An OBD Diagnostics port  302  is in further two way communication with the CPU unit  300  and in turn outputs to each of a CAN BUS or other suitable Diagnostics component. 
     A fluid storage tank  304  (see also fluid tank  42  in  FIG. 26 ) is in two way communication with the MCU  284  and in turn interfaces with a temperatures sensor  306  and pressure sensor  308 . A bladder panel  310  is in like two way communication with the MCU  284  and in turn interfaces with each of a heat exchange unit  312 , weight sensor  314  and actuators (mini)  316 . 
     Proceeding to a further explanation of the drive system layout  288  as shown in  FIG. 35B  (see also various descriptions of power drive module  46  in  FIGS. 24-27 ), direct outputs from the MCU  284  are provided to each of the E. Brakes  318  and  320  (termed brake request outputs), as well as to wheel speed sensors  322  and  324  (via speed monitoring signals). A hub motor  326  is provided in communication with each of an emergency shutoff (brake resistor)  328  and a motor controller unit  330 . The hub motor  326  engages, via a planetary gear/power splitter  332 , with each of front wheel drive motor  334  and rear wheel drive motor  336  via laterally extending drive shafts, these in turn communicating in two way fashion with the afore mentioned wheel speed sensors  322  and  324  in direct communication with the MCU  284 . 
     The front  334  and rear  336  wheel and drive motors each interface with a pair of assembly supporting free wheels (auto rotator wheels) and which are shown by free wheels  338  and  340  associated with front drive wheel  334  and additional free wheels  342  and  344  associated with rear wheel drive motor  336 . Braking structure can be incorporated into each of the free wheels and is depicted further by brake by wire components  346 ,  348 ,  350  and  352  integrated in two way communicating fashion with each of the wheels  338 ,  340 ,  342  and  344 , respectively. 
     Energy storage system  290  set forth in  FIG. 35A  (such as controlling the portable power supply associated with the multi-functional patient transport assembly) integrates a safety system layout having a battery management system (BMS)  354  and a charge port/unit monitor  356 , each of these being in direct two way communication with the MCU  284 . A battery system  358  (such as rated at 48V DC) is in communication with the BMS  354  and in turn provides suitable voltage conversion to each of DC/AC inverter  360  and DC/DC converter  362 . An AC/DC charger component  364  is likewise in two way communication with the charge port/unit monitor  356  and in turn is established in communication (ground, neutral and phase) with a 1-Phase 230V AC wall input  366 . 
     A fourth and separate human interface system again shown in  FIG. 35A  (HMI monitor)  368  is provided and includes an instrument panel surface  370  in communication with the MCU  284 , and in turn communicating in two way fashion with a front display monitor  372  (see also at  270  and which can provide numerous and varied output functionality not limited to the drive assist mode of  FIG. 21 ). Additional outputs from the MCU  284  extend directly to each of a control panel  374  (such as which can be provided by a portable electronic tablet such as an IPad®), an E panel display  376  and a display interface  378 , the latter including two way speed monitor communication with a speed gauge  380 . 
     An associated method is also disclosed for transferring a patient between first and second patient transport assemblies and includes the steps of maneuvering a first self-powered and roller supported patient support assembly into a side-by-side arrangement with a second similarly configured assembly, docking the first and second assemblies together, orienting a first movable patient support surface associated with the first assembly relative to a second patient support surface of the second assembly, and moving a patient supported upon the first support surface to the second support surface. Additional method steps also include rotating a pair of angled docking claws secured at spaced locations along a shaft associated with a side extending location of the first assembly to engage opposing locations of the second patient transport assembly. 
     Other steps include further orienting the first and second patient support surfaces by pivoting each of the surfaces into any of a common plane or inter-angular relationship. Additional steps include utilizing a blanket extending underneath the patient for effectuating any of pulling/sliding or turning/rotating motion as shown during moving to said second assembly. 
     Having described our invention, other and additional preferred embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains, and without deviating from the scope of the appended claims. This can include reconfiguring the pairs of telescoping supports from that shown and in order to establish any type of sliding or other articulating motion relative to each of the lower base and upper patient underside/frame support locations, this in order to raise, lower, tilt or otherwise reconfigure the patient support surface. 
     It is also envisioned that the electric actuators and associated cylinders for inter-articulating the patient support sections can be either reconfigured, substituted by other structure or removed from certain variants of the assembly. Additional variants can also contemplate the base being redesigned or simplified to include only passive roller support (without the powered drive module) and further in which much of the on-board controls and power supplies are removed and congregated to a remote attachable module.