Synthesisation of design features for multifunctional stretcher concepts

Abstract

A stretcher is a lightweight and portable apparatus used to facilitate the movement of patients who require medical care. While its design and functions have been known to man for over 600 years, there is still much room for improvement with regard to comfortability, mobility and ergonomics aspects. This study aims to synthesise design features from patents, journals and products for the conceptualisation of multifunctional stretchers. Based on the conceptual synthesis of this study, if a stretcher is redesigned to be foldable, then less storage space would be required, thus allowing the paramedic or medical person to store more stretchers and attend to multiple patients at a time. In comparison to a regular stretcher, a foldable stretcher would not only be smaller and more portable but would also help medical personnel reach the patient in a timelier manner. A reduction in response time for emergency medical services might increase the survival rate among patients who are in critical conditions. In the aspect of multifunctionality, the medical person may also be able to respond to different types of medical transportation needs. Multifunctional stretchers can increase the versatility of emergency medical service teams in adapting to different situations at a reduced cost.

Keywords:

• Stretcher
• multifunctional
• conceptualisation
• design features
• ergonomics

Acknowledgement

This study was part of the main author’s final year project for his B.Eng. (Hons) Mechanical degree. The researchers would like to thank the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Multimedia University, for allowing this study to be carried out. The researchers would also like to thank Mr. Kian Siong Jee for providing some useful comments during the main author’s project presentation. Lastly, the researchers thank Ms. Chiew Fen Ng and Ms. Isma Suhaila Ismail for their constructive criticism of the manuscript.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflict of interest.