Storable patient lift and transfer apparatus

Abstract

A portable lifting apparatus for lifting and transferring of patients for use in combination with a sling or the like support. The apparatus consists of an upright tower-like base unit with a lower base section and a vertically extending armature with a hingably mounted lifting boom. The apparatus can be placed into an operational position in a minimal amount of time by lifting of the boom and deployment of the support legs. The boom would incorporate a lifting mechanism consisting of an electrically driven linear actuator, and/or a hydraulic or pneumatic piston. Deployment status might be verified by readouts on a centralized control panel or remote control unit. Wheels under the base unit might be controllably driven to aid in moving the lifting apparatus in either a stowed or deployed position. In a retracted state, the apparatus can be stored in a small area such as a closet having a footprint no larger than the size of the base unit. Portability is provided by wheels under the base unit and extended support legs.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.