An Adaptable Transport Backboard.
This project answers the question of how might inclusively accommodate bariatric and tall-stature patients in emergency patient extrication?
The backboard features a set of flaps and an extendable headrest. The flaps provide for the ability to fit wider patients onto the board, while the extendable headrest lets the board bear taller individuals.
Team Members: Erica Martelly, Kara Nickolich, and Chaitanya Singh.
Current Backboards have an outdated design.
The backboard design has remained largely the same since the 1970s when it was first introduced, and has not been updated to meet the needs of the growing, modern population. Due to a lack of redesign, EMTs are more likely to be injured on the job due to overexertion. Likewise, larger patients are at higher risk of slippage due to small surface area of the board.
Our Redesign
Top View
Dimensions: 72” long, 18” wide (folded), extendable headrest to 79” using telescoping poles.
Prototype shown is a look-like model made from laser cut ABS at 1/8 scale.
Bottom View
Ribbing on bottom is 2.5” from ground to allow for adequate clearance when lifting. It also allows for a “sled-like” motion up and down the stairs.
FEA
A 440 lb patient requires the full width of the backboard. Four EMTs are holding the handholds at the top and bottom of the board. The design supports patients up to 6’7” tall and 600 lbs.
Double action hinges allow 360° motion to allow for various arrangements in tight spaces.
Hinges were attached to different thermoplastics. Top material: ABS plastic, middle material: Polycarbonate, bottom material: Polyethylene.