Patent Description:
Hospital equipment is often adjustable to conform to the individual attributes of a given patient or use. For example, a hospital bed is adjustable to help move a patient into or out of a bed or have handles that is configured to assist in the movement of patients. Also for example, a hospital bed is configured to maintain a patient in the bed during periods when the patient is unattended, e.g., during the night. Other equipment such as various types of hospital furniture is similarly adjustable.

To monitor a patient's interaction with equipment during periods when the patient is unattended, such as during the night or during periods when hospital personnel are not in a room with a patient, equipment include monitoring devices to identify unsuitable equipment configurations. For example, a hospital bed include a device to identify generally unsuitable configurations for the bed.

Conventional systems, however, typically do not provide sufficient information regarding patient use of equipment to attending staff. For example, in the case of a hospital bed, conventional indicators do not provide a care worker with sufficient information regarding hospital equipment with respect to varying conditions of various patient types such as, for example, information regarding both more able and less able patients. <CIT> discloses a hospital bed that includes a base, a patient support system with pivotal sections (head-end, seat section, foot section), and an advanced control system. The control system features actuators that can adjust the position of these sections while allowing users to selectively increase speed for rapid adjustments when necessary. It also incorporates sensors to monitor angles and loads on various components to enhance functionality and safety.

The present disclosure is directed to overcoming the problems set forth above.

In one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a patient handling apparatus is provided which comprises one or more sensors detecting a configuration of the patient handling apparatus, and an indicator device operatively associated with the one or more sensors. The indicator device comprises a user interface allowing input of patient type information, wherein the patient type information is a stable patient type or an unstable patient type relating to a degree and/or level of patient mobility and an indicator that issues a status notice based on the entered patient type information and the detected configuration of the patient handling apparatus sensed by the one or more sensors, wherein a resultant output status notice is a suitable-for-patient status or an unsuitable-for-patient status. The patient handling apparatus further comprises a plurality of casters and one or more brakes selectively braking the plurality of casters, wherein at least one of the sensors comprises a brake sensor for detecting whether the plurality of casters are locked by one or more brakes, wherein the indicator comprises a brake indicator that issues a brake status notice, and wherein the indicator device is configured as a portable, hand held device detachably coupled to one or more portions of the patient handling apparatus.

In another exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a bed system, comprising a bed, an actuator disposed at the bed configured to adjusting the bed system, one or more sensors detecting a configuration of the bed and an indicator device operatively associated with the one or more sensors and mountable to the bed. The indicator device having an input device that inputs a patient type to the indicator device, wherein the patient type information is an all-patient type, a stable patient type or an unstable patient type relating to a degree and/or level of patient mobility, and an indicator that outputs a status to a user. The indicator outputs the status to the user based on the patient type information, and a configuration of the bed that is detected by one or more sensors, wherein a resultant output status is a suitable-for-patient status or an unsuitable-for-patient status. The bed system further comprising a plurality of casters, and one or more brakes selectively braking the plurality of casters. At least one of the sensors comprises a brake sensor for detecting whether the plurality of casters are locked by the one or more brakes. The indicator comprises a brake indicator that issues a brake status notice, and wherein the indicator device is configured as a portable, hand held device detachably coupled to one or more portions of the bed.

The invention is further set out in the appended set of claims.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary system <NUM>. System <NUM> is any suitable equipment system for a hospital or similar facility (e.g., a long term care facility, a nursing home, a residence, a rehabilitation facility, or a psychiatric facility) such as, for example, a patient care apparatus, patient handling equipment, patient transfer apparatus and systems, a hospital bed, long term care beds, a patient lifter, standing aids, or other hospital furniture such as a patient examining chair, furniture for use in a medical procedure, a restraining device for a patient, a physical therapy device, or any other suitable hospital, rehabilitation, and/or long term care equipment. System <NUM> include a plurality of adjustable features for patient comfort.

System <NUM> include a plurality of casters <NUM> that is locked by one or more brakes <NUM>, respectively. System <NUM> also include a frame <NUM>. Frame <NUM> is any suitable frame such as, for example, a height adjustable frame for raising and lowering the bed and a patient supported thereon. For example, frame <NUM> is a bed frame such as, for example, a hospital bed frame or a frame for a long term care bed. Also, for example, frame <NUM> is a bed frame that is selectively adjustable between a substantially horizontal position and an inclined position. For example, an upper portion of frame <NUM> corresponding to an upper portion of a patient's body, (e.g. backrest or torso portion of the bed frame), is selectively raised so that an upper portion of frame <NUM> is inclined from a horizontal plane (e.g., so that an upper portion of a patient's body is inclined such as, for example, for patients for whom remaining in a horizontal position is unsuitable). As schematically illustrated in <FIG>, an upper portion <NUM> of frame <NUM> is inclined at any suitable angle "A" from a horizontal position such as, for example, between about <NUM> degrees and about <NUM> degrees, or e.g. about <NUM> degrees. In one embodiment, system <NUM> is a bed or mattress with multiple patient support sections (e.g. head/back rest section, seat section, leg section and foot section) and/or multiple corresponding sections of bed frame <NUM>, one or more or all of which is movably adjustable relative to one another, thus for example, allowing a back rest section to pivot and move between a substantially horizontal to a substantially, vertical seated position and various inclined angles there between. In another embodiment, system <NUM> include an inflatable mattress with multiple inflatable cells and/or multiple inflatable bed sections for support a patient. Referring back to <FIG>, system <NUM> also include a first set of side rails <NUM> (e.g., panels) that is moveable between upper and lower positions and/or a middle position. System <NUM> also include a second set of side rails <NUM> that is disposed at either side of system <NUM>. For example, one or more side rails <NUM> is disposed at a patient head end of system <NUM> (e.g., in the case that system <NUM> is a hospital bed or a bed for a similar facility such as the ones disclosed above). Side rails <NUM> is also movable between a lower position and an upper raised position as illustrated in <FIG>. In one embodiment, side rails <NUM> is movable between a raised uppermost position, middle/mid-raised position and lower position. Side rails <NUM> and side rails <NUM> is used, for example, to secure and maintain a patient safely on an upper surface of system <NUM>.

System <NUM> also include a headboard <NUM> and a foot rest <NUM> (for example, when system <NUM> is a hospital bed or other similar type of hospital equipment or equipment, e.g., for long term care or physical rehabilitation). Headboard <NUM> and foot rest <NUM> is substantially stationary (e.g., not movable or configurable). It is also contemplated that system <NUM> also have movable and/or configurable headboards and/or foot rests.

System <NUM> include electrically, hydraulically, and/or pneumatically operated actuators <NUM> and <NUM>. For example, actuators <NUM> and <NUM> is integrated as part of frame <NUM> and/or side rails <NUM> and <NUM>, or provided externally to one or more elements of system <NUM>. Actuators <NUM> and <NUM> of system <NUM> facilitate an operation of system <NUM>. For example, actuators <NUM> and <NUM> operate to adjust a height of system <NUM> and/or a position of side rails <NUM> and/or side rails <NUM>. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, actuator <NUM> selectively control an inclination of system <NUM>, and move upper portion <NUM> to be at a desired angle "A" from a horizontal plane (e.g., a substantially flat floor). Actuators <NUM> and <NUM> is any suitable actuators for adjusting equipment. In another exemplary embodiment, actuators <NUM> (e.g. pump, exhaust and/or valve actuators) control inflation and/or deflation of one or more inflatable cells and/or inflatable sections of a mattress.

System <NUM> include a plurality of sensors <NUM> for sensing and detecting the position and/or properties of system <NUM> and its components. For example, sensors <NUM> sense a position of casters <NUM>, brakes <NUM>, frame <NUM>, bed side rails <NUM> and/or side rails <NUM>. In one embodiment, one or more sensors <NUM> is positioned to detect whether casters <NUM> are raised or lowered, the locked or unlocked position and/or state of brakes <NUM>, the height of bed frame <NUM> and/or the position of one or more sections of a bed or bed frame <NUM> (e.g. lowered or elevated backrest section, seat section, leg section and/or foot section), and the elevated and/or lowered position of side rails <NUM>, <NUM>. In another embodiment, sensors <NUM> is used to provide information regarding a state of operation or a characteristic of a component of system <NUM>, such as the inflated and/or deflated state, degree of inflation and/or deflation, the rate of inflation and/or deflation of a mattress or portion thereof (e.g. select inflatable cells of a mattress, turning bladders, backrest section, seat section, leg section and/or foot section), rate of air flow through a mattress or coverlet, etc. Sensors <NUM> is any suitable device for sensing a position and/or operation of elements of system <NUM> such as, for example, an active transducer, a passive transducer, a pressure sensor, magnet and hall sensors, and/or a bidirectional sensor. Sensors <NUM> is disposed at one or more locations of system <NUM> so as to provide measurements and other information, for example, for use in providing a medical professional or other caregiver data used for ascertaining a configuration of system <NUM>. For example, sensors <NUM> provide output that is used to notify personnel of either suitable or unsuitable configurations of system <NUM> in relation to various patients.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary indicator device <NUM>. Indicator device is any suitable device for providing information (e.g., output from sensors <NUM> and/or other sources) as to a configuration of system <NUM>. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, indicator device <NUM> is a configuration indicator for providing an indication of the state of configuration of system <NUM> such as, for example, a hospital bed indicator, patient support indicator, a patient handling equipment indicator, a hospital furniture indicator, a patient transfer system indicator, a patient lifter and/or hoist indicator, or any other suitable type of indicator used in a hospital or similar facility (e.g., for equipment used for physical rehabilitation, long term care, psychiatric care, or a residence). Indicator device <NUM> include a housing <NUM> (e.g., any suitable housing or casing for an indicator device). Housing <NUM> include an attachment portion <NUM>, which for example is a separate component or an integral part of housing <NUM>. For example, attachment portion <NUM> is formed integrally with housing <NUM> as a part of the housing <NUM> itself. Attachment portion <NUM> is, for example, a hook, clamp, clasp, snap, magnet, opening, connector, or other element suitably structured to be mounted on system <NUM> for attaching indicator device <NUM> to a portion of system <NUM>. Attachment portion <NUM> include a hook or other opening <NUM> that is wide enough to accommodate a portion of the various elements of system <NUM>. For example, attachment portion <NUM> is dimensioned to fit a width of a portion of frame <NUM>, a rail attached to system <NUM>, a portion of foot rest <NUM>, a portion of headboard <NUM>, and/or a portion of side rails <NUM> and <NUM>. Attachment portion <NUM> is, for example, adjustable to fit varying dimensions of different portions of system <NUM>. For example, attachment portion <NUM> is an adjustable hook. In an exemplary embodiment, indicator device <NUM> and housing <NUM> is portable. For example, housing <NUM> is sized so that it can be held and easily carried or moved by hand by a user. For example, housing <NUM> is about the size of a person's hand or is sized to be larger than a user's hand (but may still be, for example, portable). It is also contemplated that in one embodiment, housing <NUM> is substantially stationary (for example, substantially fixed in place at a given location of system <NUM>).

Indicator device <NUM> is operatively associated with and sensors <NUM>, and/or controller <NUM> and/or system <NUM>. In one embodiment, indicator device <NUM> include a coupling element that couples indicator device <NUM> electrically to sensors <NUM> and/or a controller <NUM>. Controller <NUM> is any suitable control device for controlling operation of system <NUM> such as, for example, a control device including a central processing unit and other suitable elements for receiving input and generating output (e.g., a processing unit or any other suitable type of automated and/or computer controller for facilitating automated control). Controller <NUM> is disposed at a portion of system <NUM> such as, for example, at frame <NUM> or any other suitable location of system <NUM>. Indicator device <NUM>, sensors <NUM>, and controller <NUM> is coupled by any suitable technique such as, for example, a wireless coupling (e.g., one including a transceiver) or a cable such as for example, an electrical cable. For example, indicator device <NUM> and sensors <NUM> is coupled via electrical lines to controller <NUM> that is disposed on frame <NUM>. For example, indicator device <NUM>, sensors <NUM>, and controller <NUM> is coupled by a cable connection that reduce an amount of wireless noise that might potentially interfere with other equipment disposed in a vicinity of system <NUM>. Also, for example, indicator device <NUM>, sensors <NUM>, and controller <NUM> is coupled by any suitable technique for ensuring a reliable link between sensors <NUM>, indicator device <NUM>, and controller <NUM>.

Housing <NUM> have any suitable structure or size for allowing indicator device <NUM> to be moved by personnel using system <NUM> (e.g., medical personnel or other care givers) and placed in positions on system <NUM> that is convenient for attending personnel and is seen when a patient is left alone (e.g., during a period when a patient is resting or sleeping). For example, indicator device <NUM> is positioned at or near a location of system <NUM> that is close to a doorway or facing a front portion of a screen or other device for providing privacy (e.g., a curtain, divider, or other device affording privacy to a patient or other user of system <NUM>). Also, for example, indicator device <NUM> is placed at any location of system <NUM> visible to attending personnel such as, for example, frame <NUM>, side rails <NUM>, side rails <NUM>, headboard <NUM>, foot rest <NUM>, handle or any other suitable location of system <NUM>. In one embodiment, indicator device <NUM> is coupled to, latch on, hang on an edge or upper surface of frame <NUM>, side rails <NUM>, side rails <NUM>, headboard <NUM>, foot rest <NUM>, handle or exposed ledge of system <NUM>.

Indicator device <NUM> include one or more light units <NUM>. Light unit <NUM> is used to indicate a state of configuration of system <NUM>. Light unit <NUM> include a first indicator element <NUM> that is an integral portion of housing <NUM> or a separate component that encircles first display elements <NUM> and second display elements <NUM> (or a single display element or any other suitable number of display elements) at a front and/or a rear side of housing <NUM>. In one embodiment, first indicator element <NUM> is configured as a lighting element, such as LED lights and/or other light source, and is illuminated when indicator device <NUM> is in operation. For example, first element <NUM> project different colors or flashing colors corresponding to different states of system <NUM>, clearly notifying a user as to a state of system <NUM> and/or communicating alarm notices/alerts. In one embodiment, first indicator element <NUM> encircle one or more display elements <NUM>, <NUM> forming a single display. In one embodiment, the display elements <NUM>, <NUM> include and/or is configured as, for example, one or more display screens and/or any suitable number of LEDs, lamps or other light elements and sources for illumination elements or surfaces disposed in any suitable arrangement for providing notification to attending personnel. Light unit <NUM> also include a second indicator element <NUM> that is an integral portion of housing <NUM> or a separate component that is disposed at a bottom portion of housing <NUM>. Second indicator element <NUM> is configured to direct light generated by light unit <NUM> downwardly when indicator device <NUM> is in use. For example, in one embodiment, second indicator element <NUM> is configured as a lighting element, such as LED lights or other light source. In one embodiment, the display, display elements, first indicator element <NUM> and/or second indicator element <NUM> include and/or is configured as lighting elements which illuminate, project colored and/or flashing lights to notify a user as to a state of system <NUM> and/or alert/alarm condition; these display, display elements and/or first indicator element <NUM> coordinate light projections, simultaneously project light and/or independently project light relative to one another.

Indicator device <NUM> also include an input unit <NUM>. Input unit <NUM> is any suitable unit for a user of indicator device <NUM> to provide input, such as system <NUM> and/or patient data, to indicator device <NUM> such as, for example, a button console, a keypad, a touchscreen, or any other suitable unit for receiving data from a user based on tactile, visual, audio, or any other suitable technique for providing input.

As discussed above, light unit <NUM> include one or more or a plurality of LEDs, lamps or other light elements and sources. These light sources of light unit <NUM> is operated in a plurality of modes. For example, light unit <NUM> operate to indicate a suitable and/or unsuitable configuration of system <NUM> (e.g., a suitable-for-patient status or an unsuitable-for-patient status). For example, light unit <NUM> is formed of one or more LEDs, lamps or other light elements and sources. Also for example, light unit <NUM> generate light of any suitable wavelength such as, for example, a plurality of different colors including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet, and white. For example, light unit <NUM> include a plurality of lights including green, yellow, amber, and or red lights. The lights also be able to flash and project lights of different patterns.

Light unit <NUM> is configured in any suitable shape or configuration such as, for example, a square pattern, a circular configuration, a linear configuration, a striped configuration, and/or a polygonal shape. Light unit <NUM> include one or more LEDs, lamps, light elements or sources configured to direct light downwardly (with respect to a longitudinal direction of indicator device <NUM>, such as in a direction moving away from element <NUM>) from at least one light element. Light unit <NUM> include one or more LEDs, lamps and light elements configured to direct light in a lateral direction from the sides of indicator device <NUM> in a sideways direction, upward from indicator device <NUM>, frontwards (e.g., forwardly) from indicator device <NUM>, rearwards from indicator device <NUM>, diagonally from indicator device <NUM>, or any other suitable direction from indicator device <NUM>. For example, light unit <NUM> is configured to direct light sideways and/or upwardly from indicator device <NUM>, and/or frontwards and/or downwards.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an indicator device. Indicator device 30a is generally similar to indicator device <NUM>. Indicator device 30a include a second display element 44a and an input unit 46a that is the same or generally similar to second display element <NUM> and input unit <NUM>, respectively. Indicator device 30a is an exemplary indicator device for a bed (e.g., for use in a hospital, physical therapy center, long term care facility, residence, psychiatric care center, rehabilitation center, and/or any other suitable location for providing an indicator device for a bed). As illustrated in <FIG>, second display element 44a include a brake indicator <NUM> that illuminate when brakes are applied (e.g., when brakes <NUM> are applied), a side-panel position indicator <NUM> that illuminate when side panels are raised and/or lowered (e.g., when side rails <NUM> and/or side rails <NUM> are raised), a bed height indicator <NUM> that illuminate when the bed/system <NUM> is in a raised and/or lowermost position (e.g., when frame <NUM> is in an uppermost and/or lowermost position), a patient-exit indicator <NUM> that illuminate when system <NUM> is in a configuration in which a user exit and/or step off of system <NUM> (e.g., in the case that system <NUM> is a bed, patient-exit indicator <NUM> indicate that it is a suitable time for a patient to leave the bed, for example when frame <NUM> is in its lowest position and side rails <NUM>, <NUM> are in their lowered positions) or that a patient has actually exited system <NUM> (e.g., sensor <NUM> is a pressure sensor or any other suitable sensor for detecting that a patient has exited system <NUM>), and a backrest-inclination indicator <NUM> (e.g., a bed inclination indicator) that indicate when frame <NUM> is in an angled configuration exceeding a predetermined threshold (e.g., when a portion of frame <NUM> corresponding to an upper portion of a patient's body is angled greater than a threshold angle from a horizontal plane such as, for example, <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, <NUM> degrees, or <NUM> degrees). Brake indicator <NUM>, side-panel position indicator <NUM>, bed height indicator <NUM>, patient-exit indicator <NUM>, and/or backrest-inclination indicator <NUM> provide attending personnel (e.g., a nurse or other care personnel) with an indication of the state of each of the configurable elements of system <NUM> (e.g., with respect to the activities of a patient or other user of system <NUM>). Brake indicator <NUM>, side-panel position indicator <NUM>, bed height indicator <NUM>, patient-exit indicator <NUM>, and/or backrest-inclination indicator <NUM> provide output based on a configuration of system <NUM> sensed by one or more sensors <NUM> and a patient type input to input unit 46a as described below. In other embodiments, indicator device 30a also include a mattress inflation and/or deflation indicator providing a user with an indication of mattress pressure in one or more sections of the mattress (e.g. seat section of the mattress) or the rate of inflation/deflation of one or more mattress sections; patient turning indicators to provide notice when turning bladders are activated to assist with turning of a patient; and/or air flow indicator for determining the rate of air flow through a mattress (such as a low air loss mattress) or coverlet.

As illustrated in <FIG>, input unit 46a, e.g. user interface, include a first input device <NUM>, a second input device <NUM>, and third input device <NUM>. Input devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is any suitable type of switch for allowing a user to input information to input unit 46a such as, for example, push-button switches, dials, levers, or touchscreen devices. First input device <NUM> is used by an operator to set parameters for system <NUM> when system <NUM> is not being moved between different locations or positions (e.g., in the case when system <NUM> is substantially stationary such as, for example, when system <NUM> is a bed for accommodating a patient therein). For example, first input device <NUM> is activated for a situation applicable to all users or patients (e.g., a universal setting, or an all-patient type setting). For example, when first input device <NUM> is activated, indicators <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> all illuminate to indicate a suitable condition (e.g., green) to attending personnel or is not illuminated at all. Also, for example, when first input device <NUM> is activated, brake indicator <NUM> illuminate as unsuitable (e.g., red or other color denoting unsuitability) when brakes <NUM> are off (e.g., and brake indicator <NUM> illuminate as suitable when brakes <NUM> are on and system <NUM> is locked in a substantially stationary position).

Second input device <NUM> is used by an operator to set system <NUM> into a configuration deemed suitable for a first category or type of user of system <NUM>. For example, second input device <NUM> is used to set system <NUM> into a configuration deemed suitable for a patient who is unlikely to fall out of system <NUM> unintentionally (e.g., a user who is in generally good or fair physical condition such as, for example, a patient who is sufficiently stable to be able to get into and out of system <NUM> unaided for the case in which system <NUM> is a bed, e.g., a stable patient type). For example, second input device <NUM> allow for an indication of a suitable bed configuration even when one or more of the features of system <NUM> is disengaged, such as for example when side rails <NUM> and/or side rails <NUM> are in a lowered or disengaged position. For example, when second input device <NUM> is activated, brake indicator <NUM> is illuminated to display an unsuitable configuration (e.g., red) when one or brakes <NUM> are unlocked (e.g., it is deemed unsuitable for even healthy users to exit system <NUM> when the brakes are off), but display a suitable configuration (e.g., green) when all of brakes <NUM> are locked. For example, when second input device <NUM> is activated, side-panel position indicator <NUM> is not illuminated or is illuminated to display a suitable configuration (e.g., green) when one or more side rails <NUM> and <NUM> are either in a raised or lowered position. Similarly, when second input device <NUM> is activated, bed height indicator <NUM> is not illuminated or be illuminated to display a suitable configuration (e.g., green) when frame <NUM> is either in a raised or lowered position. It is also contemplated that when second input device <NUM> is activated and frame <NUM> is in a raised position, bed height indicator <NUM> is illuminated to display an unsuitable configuration (e.g., red). Also for example, when second input device <NUM> is activated, patient-exit indicator <NUM> is not illuminated or remain in a suitable configuration (e.g., green illumination) deeming it suitable for healthy patients to climb on or off system <NUM> at any time. Further for example, when second input device <NUM> is activated, backrest-inclination indicator <NUM> is not illuminated or remain in a suitable configuration (e.g., green illumination) deeming it suitable for healthy patients to be at any suitable inclination angle "A" illustrated in <FIG>.

Third input device <NUM> allow an operator to configure system <NUM> for a user generally associated with higher levels of instability and uncertainty (e.g., an unstable patient type). For example, third input device <NUM> configure system <NUM> for use by a user who is relatively more likely than other users to fall out of system <NUM> unintentionally or who is otherwise too unstable to be able to get into or out of system <NUM> unaided. In a setting activated by third input device <NUM>, system <NUM> is deemed to be in a suitable configuration only when most or all of the features of system <NUM> are engaged (e.g., all of the features of system <NUM> designed to help maintain a user within or on system <NUM> are engaged such as, for example, side rails <NUM> and side rails <NUM> being in an upright and locked position). For example, when system <NUM> is a bed, all of the features of system <NUM> designed to maintain a patient in bed is activated based on an operator activating third input device <NUM>. Accordingly, when third input device <NUM> is activated, brake indicator <NUM> is illuminated to be suitable (e.g., green) when brakes <NUM> are on but is illuminated to be unsuitable (e.g., red) when brakes <NUM> are off, side-panel position indicator <NUM> is illuminated to be suitable (e.g., green) when side rails <NUM> and <NUM> are in an upright position but is illuminated to be unsuitable (e.g., red) when one or more side rails <NUM> and <NUM> are in an unlocked or lowered position, bed height indicator <NUM> is illuminated to be suitable (e.g., green) when frame <NUM> is in a lowermost position but is illuminated to be unsuitable (e.g., red) when frame <NUM> is in any position other than a lowermost position, and patient-exit indicator <NUM> is illuminated to be unsuitable at any time that one or more sensors <NUM> detect that a patient is exiting or has exited system <NUM>. Also, when third input device <NUM> is activated, backrest-inclination indicator <NUM> is illuminated to be suitable (e.g., green) when angle "A" is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (e.g., about <NUM> degrees, about <NUM> degrees, about <NUM> degrees, or about <NUM> degrees) and is illuminated to be unsuitable (e.g., red) when angle "A" is below the predetermined value (e.g., indicating to attending personnel that a patient should remain in an inclined position instead of a flat position).

First input device <NUM>, second input device <NUM>, and third input device <NUM> is operatively associated with and/or operate in conjunction with controller <NUM>, indicator device 30a, and/or sensors <NUM> to cause, for example, the LEDs, lamps or other light elements or sources of light unit <NUM> and second display element <NUM> to illuminate to indicate whether the bed is in the configuration suitable for meeting the respective criteria of first input device <NUM>, second input device <NUM>, and/or third input device <NUM>. For example, when system <NUM> is deemed to be configured in an appropriate manner, light unit <NUM> illuminate in a first mode (for example, light unit <NUM> illuminate in green, white, purple, blue, or another predetermined color, or in a steadily-lit manner). Also, for example, when system <NUM> is deemed to be configured in an inappropriate manner, light unit <NUM> illuminate in a second mode (for example, light unit <NUM> illuminate in a different color, e.g. red, orange, yellow, or other predetermined color, or in a flashing manner). Further, for example, light unit <NUM> is designed to illuminate in any manner that would intuitively notify attending personnel as to the status of the configuration of system <NUM> (for example, a red flashing mode of illumination intuitively notify attending personnel of an inappropriate configuration of system <NUM>, while a steady green mode of illumination intuitively notify attending personnel of an appropriate configuration of system <NUM>). Indicator device 30a additionally include audio features to provide further notification to attending personnel in suitable situations. For example, when system <NUM> is employed in a facility for psychological treatment, indicator device 30a include audio features that provide notification to attending personnel of an inappropriate configuration of system <NUM> (such as, for example, a high-pitched audio alert to notify attending personnel of an inappropriate configuration).

Display elements <NUM>, <NUM>, brake indicator <NUM>, side-panel position indicator <NUM>, bed height indicator <NUM>, patient-exit indicator <NUM>, and/or backrest-inclination indicator <NUM> is illuminated similarly as described above with reference to light unit <NUM>. For example, brake indicator <NUM> is illuminated when one or more brakes <NUM> have been applied. Also, for example, side-panel position indicator <NUM> is illuminated when side rails <NUM> and/or side rails <NUM> are raised. Further, for example, bed height indicator <NUM> is illuminated when system <NUM> is in a lowermost position. Additionally, for example, patient-exit indicator <NUM> is illuminated when system <NUM> is deemed to be in a configuration suitable for a patient to be moved onto or off of system <NUM>. Also, for example, brake indicator <NUM>, side-panel position indicator <NUM>, bed height indicator <NUM>, patient-exit indicator <NUM>, and/or backrest-inclination indicator <NUM> is of a type that illuminate in different colors (for example, they is illuminated red when an associated feature of system <NUM> is not in an inputted or indicated configuration, or green when an associated feature of system <NUM> matches an inputted or indicated configuration). Also, for example, brake indicator <NUM>, side-panel position indicator <NUM>, bed height indicator <NUM>, patient-exit indicator <NUM>, and/or backrest-inclination indicator <NUM> is configured to illuminate only at times when the bed is sensed to have been actuated into a configuration associated with those indicators. In tandem with indicators <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM> being illuminated, light unit <NUM> also be illuminated to provide a consistent notification to attending personnel based on the illumination of the indicators (e.g., light unit <NUM> disposed on any portion of indicator device <NUM> is illuminated to provide notification to attending personnel located at a significant distance away from system <NUM>).

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary configuration of system <NUM> deemed suitable for a user such as, for example, a stable patient (e.g., a relatively healthy patient who is able to maintain a position on system <NUM>). In addition to indicator device <NUM> and/or indicator device 30a, a second indicator device <NUM> is provided that is positioned for use by a patient utilizing system <NUM>. Accordingly, a patient is allowed to use indicator device <NUM> to control and/or provide input to system <NUM> similarly to as described above with reference to indicator device <NUM> and indicator device 30a. Also, for example, a patient is provided instead with a different controller configured to control some features of system <NUM>, but not all of the features described above with reference to indicator device <NUM> and indicator device 30a. Further, for example, a patient is provided with no indicator device or controller for controlling system <NUM>.

In the configuration illustrated in <FIG>, light unit <NUM> emit a green light indicative of an appropriate configuration (e.g., a suitable bed configuration), for example with frame <NUM> being in a lowered position, brakes <NUM> being applied, and at least one of side rails <NUM> and side rails <NUM> being in a lowered position. Also, for example, indicator device <NUM> and/or indicator device <NUM> indicate that system <NUM> is in a suitable or appropriate configuration when only one of (for example, each of) side rails <NUM> and side rails <NUM> is lowered and the other is raised, only side rails or side panels on one side of system <NUM> are lowered, both side rails <NUM> and side rails <NUM> are lowered, or all side rails on all sides of system <NUM> are lowered (e.g., when system <NUM> is in a lowered position, for example). Also, for example, indicator device <NUM> is configured to emit a warning sound when system <NUM> is in this configuration, serving as a notification to medical personnel or attending personnel such as a care giver that a patient has initiated a given configuration and therefore the patient's use of system <NUM> should possibly be monitored. Accordingly, indicator device <NUM> (and/or indicator device 30a and indicator device <NUM>) provide functionality by allowing system <NUM> to be set into a configuration (e.g., by using input unit <NUM>) in which one or more of the features of system <NUM> is, for example, lowered or otherwise deactivated. In particular, this setting allow a user (e.g., who is physically able) to get off or onto system <NUM> when one or more of side rails <NUM> and/or side rails <NUM> is lowered without indicator <NUM> providing notification (e.g., notification of an inappropriate configuration by providing illumination as described above or by raising an alarm). Further, system <NUM> help to substantially prevent a patient who is relatively unstable or not physically able from climbing off of system <NUM> (e.g., by providing notification to attending personnel via indicator device <NUM>).

<FIG> illustrates a similar configuration of system <NUM> as <FIG>, but with indicator device <NUM> being set for a patient who is relatively unstable (e.g., relatively unhealthy or not physically able). For example, this configuration is associated with a configuration of system <NUM> in which third input device <NUM> has been activated. In this setting, light unit <NUM> emit a warning light (for example, a red or amber illumination notifying attending personnel that one or more of side rails <NUM> and/or side rails <NUM> is in a lowered position, because there is a patient who is not physically stable in system <NUM>). Indicator device <NUM> cause light unit <NUM> to emit a green light (e.g., or other color indicating for example suitability) when it is determined that: brakes <NUM> are applied, frame <NUM> is in a lowered position (e.g., a lowermost position), the majority of side rails <NUM> and side rails are in raised positions (e.g., at least three out of four of side rails <NUM> and side rails <NUM>), and an exit alarm is activated (e.g., an audio warning device included, for example, as part of indicator device <NUM>, frame <NUM>, and/or any other suitable portion of system <NUM>). For example, in the case in which system <NUM> is a bed such as a hospital bed, indicator device <NUM> cause light unit <NUM> to emit a green light only, for example, when system <NUM> is sensed to be in an appropriate setting for a physically unstable patient (e.g., all of the appropriate features suitable to be activated for that patient are activated).

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary system 10b. System 10b is a system for assisting a user's movement in a hospital or other care facility such as, for example, a patient lifting system or a patient hoist. System 10b is, for example, a lifting device for assisting a patient into or out of a bed or other piece of equipment.

Exemplary system 10b include a mast 70b that is mounted on a chassis 72b. Chassis 72b include a plurality of chassis legs 73b for stabilizing system 10b (e.g., stabilizing legs). A plurality of casters 74b is mounted on chassis 72b, for example at distal ends of legs 73b, allowing users and/or attending personnel to move system 10b as desired. Brakes 76b is disposed at respective casters 74b to selectively lock casters 74b and substantially prevent a movement of system 10b. A patient interface 78b (e.g., a patient support interface) also be mounted to mast 70b, and is used for securing a patient to system 10b during transport (e.g., via straps or other attachments for holding a patient). An indicator device 30b is attached to any suitable portion of system 10b, such as a member 80b or handle. Indicator device 30b is disposed at any other location of system 10b such as, for example, mast 70b, chassis 72b, or patient interface 78b. System 10b also include one or more actuators 27b, sensors 29b, and a controller 35b that operate generally similarly to actuators <NUM>, sensors <NUM>, and controller <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates exemplary indicator 30b. Indicator 30b include a second display element 44b that is generally similar to second display element 44a, and an input unit 46b that is generally similar to input unit 46a. As illustrated in <FIG>, second display element 44b include a plurality of indicators that is generally similar to the indicators of second display element 44a. For example, second display element 44b include a brake indicator 52b that illuminate when brakes are applied (e.g., when brakes 76b are applied), an interface-loaded indicator 54b that illuminate when a patient has been loaded on patient interface 78b, a mast-raised indicator 56b (e.g., a mast-height indicator) that illuminate when mast 70b is extended or raised to a predetermined length or height (e.g., when mast 70b is raised to a height of, for example, <NUM> centimeters or more, <NUM> centimeters or more, <NUM> centimeters or more, or <NUM> centimeters or more), a chassis-legs-locked indicator 58b that illuminate when chassis legs 73b are in a closed position (e.g., chassis legs 73b are in a closed and/or locked position that further stabilize a vertical orientation of system 10b), a standstill-time indicator 59b that illuminate when system 10b is in a stationary position for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., about <NUM> minutes, or about <NUM> minutes) but brakes 76b have not been activated, and an interface-connected indicator 61b that illuminate when patient interface 78b is suitably connected to mast 70b (e.g., when a solid, reliable connection is made between patient interface 78b and mast 70b). For example, interface-connected indicator 61b indicate that slings, safety belts and other components used to secure a patient to patient interface 78b are attached correctly (e.g., by illuminating to indicate suitability) or incorrectly (e.g., by illuminating to indicate unsuitability). Also, for example, second display element 44b include a battery-status indicator 63b that illuminate based on a battery level status of a power source of system 10b (e.g., illuminating to indicate suitability when battery power is sufficient and/or illuminating to indicate unsuitability when battery status is low). Brake indicator 52b, interface-loaded indicator 54b, mast-raised indicator 56b, chassis-legs-locked indicator 58b, standstill-time indicator 59b, interface-connected indicator 61b, and/or battery-status indicator 63b provide attending personnel (e.g., a nurse or other care personnel) with an indication of the state of each of the configurable elements of system 10b (e.g., with respect to the activities of a patient or other user of system 10b). Brake indicator 52b, interface-loaded indicator 54b, mast-raised indicator 56b, chassis-legs-locked indicator 58b, standstill-time indicator 59b, interface-connected indicator 61b, and/or battery-status indicator 63b provide output based on a configuration of system 10b sensed by one or more sensors 29b and a patient type inputted to input unit 46b.

As illustrated in <FIG>, input unit 46b include a first input device 60b, a second input device 62b, and a third input device 64b that is generally similar to the input devices of input unit 46a. Similar to first input device <NUM>, first input device 60b is used by an operator to set parameters for system 10b when system 10b is not being moved between different locations or positions (e.g., in the case when system 10b is substantially stationary). For example, first input device 60b is activated for a situation applicable to all users or patients (e.g., a universal setting, or an all-patient type setting). For example, when first input device 60b is activated, indicators 52b, 54b, 56b, 58b, 59b, 61b, and 63b all illuminate to indicate a suitable condition (e.g., green) to attending personnel or is not illuminated at all. Also, for example, when first input device 60b is activated, brake indicator 52b illuminate as unsuitable (e.g., red or other color denoting unsuitability) when brakes 76b are off (e.g., and brake indicator 52b illuminate as suitable when brakes 76b are on and system 10b is locked in a substantially stationary position). Also, for example, battery-status indicator 63b illuminate as unsuitable when a battery or power source of system 10b is low and illuminate as suitable when a battery or power source of system 10b has sufficient reserve power.

Second input device 62b work in conjunction with indicators 52b, 54b, 56b, 58b, 59b, 61b, and/or 63b in a manner similar to second input device <NUM> and the indicators of second display element 44a. For example, when second input device 62b is activated (e.g., for a user who is in generally good or fair physical condition), indicators 52b, 54b, 56b, 58b, 59b, 61b, and/or 63b generally remain in a suitable configuration (e.g., illuminating green or other color denoting suitability), or is not be illuminated at all, except in a number of situations. For example, when second input device 62b is activated, brake indicator 52b is illuminated as unsuitable (e.g., red or other color denoting unsuitability) when all brakes 76b are off, mast-raised indicator 56b is illuminated as unsuitable when a certain length or height is exceeded (e.g., when the height is in excess of <NUM>, in excess of <NUM>, or in excess of <NUM>, for example), and interface-connected indicator 61b is illuminated as unsuitable when one or more sensors 29b detect that a reliable connection has not been established. Also, for example, battery-status indicator 63b illuminate as unsuitable when a battery or power source of system 10b is low and illuminate as suitable when a battery or power source of system 10b has sufficient reserve power.

Third input device 64b work in conjunction with indicators 52b, 54b, 56b, 58b, 59b, 61b, and/or 63b in a manner similar to third input device <NUM> and the indicators of second display element 44a. For example, when third input device 64b is activated (e.g., for a user who is in generally poor physical condition), indicators 52b, 54b, 56b, 58b, 59b, 61b, and/or 63b illuminate in a suitable configuration (e.g., illuminating green or other color denoting suitability) in only a number of situations. For example, when third input device 64b is activated, brake indicator 52b is illuminated as suitable when (e.g., green or other color denoting suitability) when all brakes 76b are on, interface-loaded indicator 54b is illuminated to alert attending personnel (e.g., as yellow or some other suitable color denoting that particular attention should be paid) whenever a patient is loaded on patient interface 78b, mast-raised indicator 56b is illuminated as unsuitable when a certain length or height is exceed (e.g., when the height is in excess of, for example, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>), standstill-time indicator 59b is illuminated as suitable when system 10b has remained stationary but brakes 76b have not been applied for less than a predetermined amount of time (also, e.g., after one minute, two minutes, four minutes, five minutes, <NUM> minutes, or some other predetermined time interval, the illumination change from suitable to unsuitable), and interface-connected indicator 61b is illuminated as unsuitable when one or more sensors 29b detect that a reliable connection has not been established. Also, for example, when third input device 64b is activated, chassis-legs-locked indicator 58b is illuminated as suitable when chassis legs 73b are closed or locked in position to increase the stability of system 10b. For most or all other configurations of system 10b when third input device 64b is activated, one or more indicators 52b, 54b, 56b, 58b, 59b, 61b, and/or 63b is illuminated to indicate an unsuitable configuration (e.g., reflecting the generally more demanding parameters associated with a relatively weak or frail patient), and light unit <NUM> also be illuminated to similarly indicate an unsuitable configuration. Also, for example, battery-status indicator 63b is illuminated to indicate an unsuitable configuration when a battery or power source of system 10b is low and illuminate as suitable when a battery or power source of system 10b has sufficient reserve power. In tandem with indicators 52b, 54b, 56b, 58b, 59b, 61b, and/or 63b being illuminated, light unit <NUM> also be illuminated to provide a consistent notification to attending personnel based on the illumination of the indicators (e.g., light unit <NUM> disposed on any portion of indicator device 30b is illuminated to provide notification to attending personnel located a significant distance away from system 10b).

The exemplary disclosed device and system provide an indicator device <NUM> that can be positioned in various locations on a system <NUM>, for example suitably within view of attending personnel such as medical personnel or caretakers who are not in immediate or close vicinity of the system. The exemplary disclosed device and system also provide a setting function that gives an indication of suitability (e.g., based on user attributes such as, for example, patient health) when one or more of the features of system <NUM> is in a deactivated condition (e.g., when one or more side rails <NUM> or side rails <NUM> is lowered to enable the patient to get into or off system <NUM> unaided, or when a frame <NUM> is in a lowered or lowermost position). Also for example, system <NUM> provide an integrated notification system that provides individual monitoring of various parameters as well as monitoring and indication of an overall system status.

It is contemplated that any number or combination of appropriate system features is provided in conjunction with exemplary disclosed system <NUM>, depending on a functionality of various exemplary embodiments of system <NUM>. For example, system <NUM> have a plurality of configurations suitable for various types or categories of patients.

Claim 1:
A patient handling apparatus (<NUM>, 10b) comprising:
one or more sensors (<NUM>, 29b) detecting a configuration of the patient handling apparatus, and
an indicator device (<NUM>, 30a, 30b, <NUM>) operatively associated with the one or more sensors, the indicator device comprising:
a user interface (<NUM>, 46a, 46b) allowing input of patient type information, wherein the patient type information is a stable patient type or an unstable patient type relating to a degree and/or level of patient mobility; and
an indicator (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, 44a, 44b) that issues a status notice based on the entered patient type information and the detected configuration of the patient handling apparatus sensed by the one or more sensors,
wherein the resultant output status notice is a suitable-for-patient status or an unsuitable-for-patient status;
wherein, the patient handling apparatus further comprises
a plurality of casters (<NUM>, 74b) and one or more brakes (<NUM>, 76b) selectively braking the plurality of casters,
wherein at least one of the sensors (<NUM>, 29b) comprises a brake sensor for detecting whether the plurality of casters are locked by one or more brakes,
wherein the indicator (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, 44a, 44b) comprises a brake indicator (<NUM>, 52b) that issues a brake status notice, and
wherein the indicator device (<NUM>, 30a, 30b, <NUM>) is configured as a portable, hand held device detachably coupled to one or more portions of the patient handling apparatus.