PROTOTYPE-2

The second prototype of Stretch-Chair is an advanced and a more polished version of its first prototype. Lightweight composite materials were implemented in the construction to reduce the overall bulk of the equipment and to increase its structural rigidity.

Improvements and features added :

• Usage of composite materials- carbon-fiber-reinforced aluminum* for the lower frame and chassis to cut down on weight while maintaining structural rigidity.

• Collapsible armrests and support handles to facilitate easy and hassle-free shifting and movement of patients.

• Foldable base legs to facilitate easy ingress and reduce the overall footprint of the equipment when kept in ambulance.

• Unique and simple locking mechanism to provide various recline angles to patients as per their need and comfort.

• Additionally, hydraulic struts were installed to support the mechanism.

• Implementing a linear locking mechanism to lock the leg rest in horizontal position when the equipment is in stretcher mode.

• Bigger wheels being moved outwards, thereby providing a much stable and wider base as compared to the previous model.

• Addition of extra set of legs to the back-rest assembly to distribute the weight of the patient evenly.

• Addition of foldable footrests to the leg-rest.

Scope of Improvement:

• Reduction and optimization in the overall size and working of the locking mechanism.

• Making the equipment more stair-friendly by implementing some stair climbing mechanism.

• Making all the conversion processes automatic (with help of actuators).

Sketches:

Group4_StretChair.pdf

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