Stryker Corporation
Patient Transport Apparatus For Transporting A Patient Over Disturbances In Floor Surfaces

Abstract:

A patient transport apparatus for moving a patient from one location to another. The patient transport apparatus comprises a suspension system to limit discomfort to the patient when the patient transport apparatus moves over disturbances in floor surfaces. The suspension system comprises suspension devices such as a spring and/or a damper. The suspension system is operable in an energy-absorbing mode in which the suspension system absorbs energy as wheels move over the disturbances during transport or a lockout mode in which the suspension system is relatively more rigid as compared to the energy-absorbing mode. A control system operates to place the suspension system in one of the modes.