GB2420323A

GB2420323A - Securing stretcher in rear of ambulance

Info

Publication number: GB2420323A
Application number: GB0516486A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Shahid Saleem; David Whyman
Original assignee: Ferno UK Ltd
Current assignee: Ferno UK Ltd
Priority date: 2004-10-19
Filing date: 2005-08-11
Publication date: 2006-05-24
Anticipated expiration: 2025-08-11
Also published as: GB2420323B; GB0423185D0; GB0516486D0

Abstract

The present invention provides a restraining arrangement to removably restrain stretchers within the rear of an ambulance. Ambulances are provided with tracks 32, 34, 36 in order to support seats to the floor 11. The restraint arrangement comprises a front restraining apparatus 17 and a rear restraining apparatus 19. Each restraining apparatus comprises two securement devices 18 that are coupled together and engage with the pair of tracks 32, 34, 36. Each securement device 18 comprises quick release securement means to secure the respective restraining apparatus 17, 19 to the tracks 32, 34, 36. The present invention provides a quick and easy method of reconfiguring the arrangement of apparatus supplied within the rear of an ambulance.

Description

RESTRAINING APPARATUS MD METHOD

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a restraint arrangement for support apparatus, a method of restraining support apparatus, a vehicle including a restraint arrangement and a method of reconfiguring support apparatus within a vehicle and, in particular, relates to a restraint io arrangement for support apparatus in a vehicle and a method of restraining support apparatus in a vehicle.

Background to the Invention

Support apparatus in the form of stretchers and the like are removably secured within ambulances and emergency vehicles (for example, patient transport service vehicles) in order for the stretchers to be safely secured with the ambulance but the stretcher is also quickly and easily retrained or removed as is necessary for emergency situations.

The present restraining apparatus is generally bolted to the floor or chassis of the ambulance in order to be safe and secure. However, this results in the restraining apparatus being time consuming to remove. For example, the configuration within the rear of an ambulance may need to be altered. In one situation, the ambulance may require no stretcher but may need several safely restrained seats or wheelchairs. Accordingly, the reconfiguration of the rear of the ambulance may be time consuming. In addition, the securement elements of the restraining apparatus may be subject to wear and tear as they are removed and resecured.

It is an aim of the present invention to overcome at least one problem associated with the prior art whether referred to herein or otherwise.

Summary of the Invention

io According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a restraint arrangement for support apparatus, the arrangement comprising restraining apparatus comprising a restraining device which is arranged to releasably restrain a part of the support apparatus, the restraining apparatus further comprising a first securement device which is arranged, in use, to releasably secure the restraining apparatus to a first track and a second securement device which is arranged, in use, to releasably secure the restraining apparatus to a second track.

Preferably the first securement device is coupled to the second securement device.

preferably, the restraining device is arranged to restrain a central part of the support apparatus. Preferably the restraining device is arranged to restrain a part of the support apparatus which locates along a central longitudinal axis of the support apparatus.

preferably, the restraint arrangement is arranged, in use, to restrain the support apparatus to a support surface.

Preferably the support surface comprises a surface within a vehicle.

preferably the restraint arrangement is arranged, in use, to restrain the support apparatus within a vehicle and preferably within a vehicle for transporting patients.

The vehicle may comprise an emergency vehicle and preferably comprises an ambulance.

The support apparatus may comprise medical support apparatus.

The support apparatus may comprise a stretcher.

The support apparatus may comprise support apparatus for a medical incubator.

Preferably support apparatus comprises wheeled support apparatus.

Preferably the first securernent device comprises a quick release mechanism. Preferably the securement device comprises a quick release mechanism.

The restraining device may comprise a quick release mechanism.

Preferably the restraining apparatus comprises a securerrtent element which is arranged, in use, to engage a part of the track. preferably the securement element comprises a lug. Preferably the securement element is arranged, in use, to project into a recess provided in the track. The recess may comprise two opposed arcuate surfaces. The recess may comprise a part cylindrical recess. Preferably the restraining apparatus comprises four securement elements each of which locates towards a corner of the restraining apparatus.

The restraining apparatus may comprise a fixing plate.

Preferably the restraining device is secured to the fixing plate and preferably is permanently secured or mounted to the fixing plate. The restraining device may be welded to the fixing plate.

preferably the fixing plate couples the first securement device to the secured securement device.

preferably the fixing plate extends between the first securement device and the second securement device.

The fixing plate may comprise a first opening and a second opening in order for the first securement device and the second securement device to locate therein.

The first securement device may be secured to the fixing plate and preferably is permanently secured or mounted to the fixing plate. The first securement device may be welded to the fixing plate.

The second securement device may be movable relative to the fixing plate. The second securement device may comprise a securement member which is arranged to prevent or enable movement of the second securement device relative to the fixing plate. preferably the second securement device is movable on the fixing plate to enable the lateral separation distance of the first securement device and the second securement device to be adjustable.

The second securement device may be movable relative to the fixing plate in order to move the second securerrtent device to be parallel or (slightly) non-parallel to the first securement device. The second securement device may be movable by substantially U to 6 mm relative to the first securement device.

The first securement device may locate adjacent to a first lateral side of the restraining device and the second securement device may locate adjacent to a second lateral side of the restraining device. Preferably the lateral separation distance of the first securement device relative to the second securement device is adjustable.

The first securement device may locate towards a first longitudinal end of the restraining apparatus relative to the restraining device and the second securement device may locate towards a first longitudinal end of the restraining apparatus relative to the restraining device.

The securement device may be secured to the fixing plate and preferably is permanently secured or mounted to the fixing plate. The securement device may be welded to the fixing plate.

The or each track may comprise a channel having an entrance region (which may be defined by a first flange and a second flange) and a retaining region. The first flange and the second flange may comprise opposing arcuate surfaces which may define partial cylindrical recesses which may be spaced along the longitudinal length of the or each track.

The securement device may comprise a first plate and a second plate which may have a first engagement flange and a second engagement flange respectively provided thereon.

The engagement flange may be provided towards or at a lower end of the respective plate. Preferably the first plate and the second plate are bias or resiliently arranged towards a first inner position. Preferably in the inner position the engagement flanges of the plates can be inserted through the entrance region of the track in order to locate in the retaining region. Once in the retaining region an actuating member may cause the first plate and second plate (or at least the engagement flanges thereof) to move outwardly relative to each other in order for the securement device to be in a secured position.

preferably in the secured position the plates (and in particular the engagement flanges thereof) cannot pass through the entrance region and in particular the engagement flanges are arranged to co-operate with and/or abut an underside surface of the first flange and second flange of the respective track.

preferably the actuating member is arranged to be moved by a first handle. A second handle may be arranged, in use, to prevent movement of the first handle.

The restraint arrangement may comprise first restraining apparatus and second restraining apparatus. The first restraining apparatus may comprise front restraining apparatus to restrain a front part of the support apparatus and the second restraining apparatus may comprise rear restraining apparatus to restrain a rear part of the support apparatus.

Preferably the first restraining apparatus is arranged to be spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the tracks relative to the second restraining apparatus.

Preferably the restraint arrangement comprises first restraining apparatus and second restraining apparatus.

preferably the first restraining apparatus is arranged, in use, to restrain a part of a front end of the support apparatus. Preferably the second restraining apparatus is arranged, in use, to restrain a part of a rear end of the support apparatus.

preferably the restraining device of the first restraining apparatus comprises a retaining element which is arranged to co-operate with a part of the front end of the support apparatus.

preferably the retaining element is permanently secured to the restraining apparatus and preferably the retaining element is not movable relative to the restraining apparatus. The retaining element preferably comprises an engagement surface or co-operation surface which is arranged to retain a part of the support apparatus and preferably retains a tube or frame member of the support apparatus. preferably the retain element co-operates or engages the support apparatus to prevent or restrict vertical upwards movement of the support apparatus (preferably the front end of the support apparatus) and/or co-operates or engages the support apparatus to prevent or restrict lateral movement of the support apparatus (preferably the front end of the support apparatus) Preferably the restraining device of the second restraining apparatus comprise a retaining element which is movable in order to selectively engage or release a part of the rear end of the support apparatus. The movement may be manually actuated and preferably is arranged to engage the support apparatus through movement of the support apparatus relative to the retaining element and preferably is arranged to release the support apparatus through manual movement (or electrical movement) of an actuating member. The actuating member may comprise a pedal and preferably comprises a foot pedal. The restraining device of the second restraining apparatus may comprise a plurality of retaining elements.

The restraining device may comprise auxiliary retaining means comprising one or more (for example, two) co- operating elements which may oppose the retaining element(s) in the restrained configuration.

preferably the retaining element(s) (and/or co-operating elements) comprise engagement or co-operation surfaces which is arranged to retain a part of the support apparatus and preferably retains a tube or frame member of the support apparatus. preferably the retaining element(s) (and/or co-operating elements) co-operates or engages the support apparatus to prevent or restrict (vertical) upwards movement of the support apparatus (preferably the rear end of the support apparatus) and/or co-operates or engages the support apparatus to prevent or restrict lateral movement of the support apparatus (preferably the rear end of the support apparatus) Preferably the first track is parallel to the second track. Preferably the first track is laterally spaced from the second track. The first track may be laterally spaced from the second track by substantially 200mm.

preferably the first track is laterally spaced from the second track by substantially 255mm.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of restraining support io apparatus comprising releasably securing a first securement device of a restraining apparatus within a first track and releasably securing a second securement device of the restraining apparatus within a second track and releasably restraining support apparatus with a restraining device of the restraining apparatus.

The method may comprise restraining a stretcher within a vehicle.

The method may comprise restraining the support apparatus in a first longitudinal direction and preferably in a second longitudinal direction.

preferably the method may comprise restraining the support apparatus in a first lateral direction and preferably in a second lateral direction.

The method may comprise restraining the support apparatus against upwards movement.

The method may comprise restraining the support apparatus against rotational movement.

The method may comprise restraining a central part of the support apparatus and preferably a part of the support apparatus located along a central longitudinal axis of the support apparatus.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle comprising a restraint arrangement whereon the restraint arrangement is in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention.

The vehicle may comprise an emergency vehicle.

The vehicle may comprise an ambulance.

The vehicle may comprise a patient transport service vehicle.

Preferably the restraint apparatus is in a rear of the vehicle, for example in a rear compartment.

The vehicle preferably comprise a first track, a second track and a third track.

preferably the vehicle comprises two pairs of tracks and, in which a lateral separation distance of the first pair of tracks is greater than a lateral separation distance of the second pair of tracks.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of reconfiguring an arrangement of support apparatus within a vehicle comprising releasably restraining support apparatus with a restraint arrangement in which the restraint arrangement is in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention.

The method may comprise releasing a seat from a track and releasably securing support apparatus within a first track and a second track.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings that follow, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of part of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 2a is a perspective view of one embodiment of part of front restraining apparatus engaged with part of a stretcher.

Figure 2b is a side view of one embodiment of part of front restraining apparatus engaged with part of a stretcher.

Figure 3a is a perspective view of a stretcher and part of one embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 3b is a perspective view of a stretcher and part of one embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of part of one embodiment of rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 5 is a perspective view of part of a preferred embodiment of a track.

Figure 6 is a cross-section of part of one embodiment of a securement device.

Figure 7 is a plan view of a vehicle floor having one embodiment of front restraining apparatus and rear restraining apparatus secured within one pair of tracks.

Figure 8 is a plan view of part of one embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 9 is a side view of part of one embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 10 is a plan view of a fixing plate of one embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 11 is a plan view of part of one embodiment of rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 12 is a side view of part of one embodiment of rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 13 is a plan view of a fixing plate of one embodiment of rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 14 is a plan view of one embodiment or rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 15 is a side view of one embodiment rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 16 is a plan view of a vehicle floor having another embodiment of front restraining apparatus and rear restraining apparatus secured within another pair of tracks.

Figure 17 is a plan view of part of another embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 18 is a side view of part of another embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 19 is a rear view of part of another embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 20 is a plan view of a fixing plate of another embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 21 is a plan view of part of another embodiment of rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 22 is a front view of part of another embodiment of rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 23 is a side view of part of another embodiment of rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 24 is a plan view of a fixing plate of another embodiment of rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 25 is a plan view of a vehicle floor showing the location of front restraining apparatus and rear restraining apparatus secured within one pair of tracks.

Figure 26 is a plan view of a vehicle floor, including one pair of tracks and an alignment jig.

Figure 27 is a plan view of one embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 28 is a view from below of one embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 29 is a side view of one embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 30 is a view of one end of one embodiment of front restraining apparatus.

Figure 31 is a plan view of one embodiment of rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 32 is a view from below of one embodiment of rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 33 is a side view of one embodiment of rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 34 is a view of one end of rear restraining apparatus.

Figure 35 is a view from below of one embodiment of a securement device.

Figure 36 is a plan view of one embodiment of a securement device.

Figure 37 is a side view of one embodiment of a securement device.

Figure 38 is an end view of one embodiment of a securement device.

Figure 39 is an end view of one embodiment of a securement device.

Figure 40 is a plan view of a vehicle floor having one embodiment of front restraining apparatus and rear restraining apparatus secured within one pair of tracks.

Figure 41A to 41E show one embodiment of front restraining apparatus being secured to a pair of tracks.

Figure 42 is a plan view of a second embodiment of a securement device.

Figure 43 is a side exploded view of a second embodiment of a securement device.

Figure 44 is a cross-section through one embodiment of a track.

Figure 45 is a plan view of a second embodiment of a track.

Figure 46 is a cross-section of a second embodiment of a track.

Description of the Preferred Embodiments

As shown in Figure 7 and Figure 16, the present invention provides a restraining arrangement 10 to removably restrain support apparatus and, in particular restrains the support apparatus to the floor 11 of a vehicle. The restraining apparatus 10 is particularly for use within the rear of emergency vehicles and more particularly within the rear of ambulances and patient transfer service vehicles and especially to restrain stretchers 15 therein.

Ambulances may be provided with tracks 32, 34, 36. Such tracks 32, 34, 36 are used to support a seat to the floor 11 of an ambulance (for example, see GB 2 347 615) . A single support is used to support the seat and enables the seat to be positioned and secured at different positions along the track 32, 34, 36.

In the present invention, the tracks 32, 34, 36 are provided as two pairs of tracks (32, 34), (34, 36) in the floor 11 of the ambulance. The first pair of tracks comprise a first track 32 and a second track 34 which are parallel and spaced laterally apart by 255mm, as shown in Figure 7, Figure 16, Figure 25, Figure 26 and Figure 40.

The tracks 32, 34 are positioned to ensure that a socket or arcuate surface 38 (cylindrical recess) is adjacent tracks 32, 34 are in line with each other. In order to ensure this a jig 33 is used. Each track 32, 34 has end caps 35 secured thereto and each track 32, 34 is cut to leave one socket position visible before a first fixing hole 37 for the track, as shown in Figure 26. The floor 11 of the ambulance also comprises a third track 36 spaced from the second track 34 in order to form a second pair of parallel, laterally spaced tracks in the rear of the ambulance. The second pair of tracks 34, 36 are spaced apart by 200mm.

As shown in Figure 5, Figure 7 and Figure 16, the track 32, 34, 36 includes arcuate shaped edges 38 such that two arcs 38 of a circle are located opposite each other on opposite edges 42, 44 of the track 32, 34, 36. The track 32, 34, 36 and into a retaining region provides a groove or channel which comprises a mouth or entrance region defined by two opposing edges 42, 44, as shown in Figure 5. As shown in Figure 6, in use, a part of a securement device comprising two plates 46, 48 is arranged to project into the groove of the track 32, 34, 36 and, once located therein, the plates 46, 48 are caused to move apart in order for a part of each plate to locate under the edges 42, 44. In one embodiment, each plate 46, 48 has an outwardly extending flange 47, 49 which are arranged to project under a respective edge 42, 44 of the track 32, 34 to secure the securement device within the track 32, 34, 36. As previously explained, GB 2 347 619 describes one such example of a securement device and another example is the Millennium System of NMI Safety Systems Limited. In the prior art, the securement device are not coupled together and may be prone to failures and weaknesses.

Another embodiment of a track 32 is shown in Figure 44 and Figure 46. Again, the track 32 provides edges 42, 44 in order for outwardly extending flanges to be engaged therebelow. The track 32 also comprises a shaped lower surface and shaped walls. The width of the slot between the two respective edges is substantially 11mm and provides a slot having a depth of substantially 10mm (9.7mm) . The track is formed of aluminium.

Yet a further track 32 is shown in Figure 45 and Figure 46. Again the track provides sockets and arcuate shaped portions together with engagement edges 42, 44. The circular/arcuate shaped portions form part of a circle having a diameter of substantially 20mm. The track is formed of aluminium and may be formed from 12 foot long aluminium sections. This track is specially designed for the device of NMI Safety Systems Limited. However, this track can also be used for alternative securement devices as will be described later. Accordingly, the track of Figure 44 can be used interchangeably with the track of Figure 45 and Figure 46 and similarly, different securement devices can be used with each track.

Accordingly, even after the tracks have been fitted to the vehicle the track can accommodate different securement devices.

The restraint arrangement 10 comprises a first or front restraining apparatus 17 and a second or rear restraining apparatus 19.

The opposing arcuate shaped surfaces 38 define a partial cylindrical recess into which securement means in the form of lugs 40 or studs (as shown in Figure 1, Figure 2a, Figure 3a and 3b and Figure 4) can locate. This securement permits or inhibits movement of the securement apparatus longitudinally along the tracks 32, 34, 36 which is not effectively provided by the previous described securement method. The restraining apparatus 17, 19 comprises four lugs 40 located towards each corner on the underside of a respective fixing plate 20, 30. Two of the lugs 40 on one side of the fixing plate 20, 30 may be laterally movable within a slot in order to adjust the lateral separation distance between the lugs 40 on the other side of the fixing plate 20, 30. This enables the restraining apparatus 17, 19 to be used with pair of tracks 32, 34, 36 having slightly differing widths and in particular, ensure a good securement by ensuring the lugs locate within a respective recess. This may also io compensate for the engineering tolerances of the recesses during manufacture. The or each lug 40 may comprise a boss which is secured by a screw member. The or each lug extends through a respective aperture 27 or slot 29.

In particular, each securement device 18 may be mounted on a mounting plate. The mounting plate may have the lugs 40 secured thereto. In one securement device 18, the securement device 18 project through an opening 21 and the two securement lugs 40 project through corresponding apertures 27, see Figures 10, 13, 20 and 24. The second securement device is arranged to project through another opening 23 whilst the two lugs 40 provided on the respective mounting plate project through slots 29. The opening 23 is laterally wider than the corresponding opening 21. In particular, the opening 23 and corresponding slots 29 enable the second securement device to move laterally away from or towards the first securement device. The first securement device 18 is effectively fixed relative to the fixing plate. The second securement device includes securement means in order to prevent or allow movement of the second securement device relative to the fixing plate and the first securement device. The securement means comprises a first and second securement member which may be provided on screw threads co-operating with the mounting plate and/or lugs 40. Once tightened this prevents movement and when released allows movement. In use, the second securement device may be allowed to move during location of the securement device and lugs within the corresponding track. Once correctly located the securement member may be tightened to correctly and securely retain the second securement device to the fixing plate. This arrangement may allow the lateral separation distance to be adjustable by approximately +3mm and - 3mm from a central axis.

The present invention provides a restraint arrangement 10 for restraining support apparatus to a securement surface 11. In this preferred embodiment, as herein described by way of example only, the support apparatus comprises a stretcher 15 which is to be releasably restrained to the floor 11 in the rear of an ambulance.

The restraint arrangement 10 comprises front restraining apparatus 17 to restrain the front (head) end of the stretcher 15 and rear restraining apparatus 19 to restrain the rear (foot) end of the stretcher 15 as shown in Figure 3a. In an alternative arrangement, the stretcher may be arranged to be restrained facing the other direction, as shown in Figure 3b. One example is described in EP 1 378 220. Each restraining apparatus 17, 19 comprises a restraining device 12, 22 and two securement devices 18.

As shown in Figures 1 to 4, and 7 to 10 and 27 to 30 the front restraining apparatus 17 includes a fixing plate 20 on to which the restraining means in the form of a restraining device 12 is secured and preferably the restraining device 12 is welded thereto. The front restraining apparatus 17 includes securement means to releasably secure the front restraining apparatus 17 in a pair tracks 32, 34, 36. The securement means comprises a securement device 18 (and preferably two identical securement devices 18) comprising quick release securement means each comprising two spaced apart plates 46, 48 each having engaging flanges 47, 49 at the lower and thereof as shown in Figure 6 and Figure 35 to 39. The securement device 18 comprises a device modified from the NMI Millennium locking device (NMI Safety System Limited). As previously mentioned, once the lower edges 47, 49 of the plates 46, 48 are inserted in the groove of the track 32, 34, 36 and the flanges 47, 49 are below the inwardly extending edges 42, 44 of the track 32, 34, 36, the plates 46, 48 are moved or forced apart against a bias in order to be secured in the track 32, 34, 36. The securement device 18 is secured to the fixing plate 20 which has an opening defined 19 therein in order for the handles 60, 62 of the securement device 18 tobe manually operated from above and for the plates 46, 48 to extend downwardly therefrom. The fixing plate 20 has two openings 21, 23 in order for two such securement devices 18 to be provided for the front restraining apparatus 17.

The securement device 18 comprises a first handle 60 which moves an actuating element in order to force the plates 46, 48 apart. The handle 60 is rotated about a pivot in order to move the actuating element downwardly between the plates 46, 48 apart and to move the plates 46, 48. Once the first handle 60 has fully moved to a downward position, a second handle 62 (or handle cover) is moved about a pivot in an opposing direction to the first handle in order for the handle 62 and/or an abutment surface thereof to locate and retain the first handle 60 in the lowered and actuated position. Accordingly, the second handle 62 provides a "fail-safe" mechanism to prevent the first handle rising and inadvertently or accidentally releasing the restraining apparatus 17, 19. The second handle 62 may comprise locking means or a locking element to lock the second handle in the lower position.

The operation of one securement device 18 for securing front restraining apparatus 17 is shown in Figures 41A to 41F. Firstly, the lugs or pegs 40 are correctly located into the sockets provided in the tracks. The first handle is then rotated about its pivot in order to lock the restraining device to the track. The second handle 62 (the locking handle) is then rotated in order to prevent rotation of the first handle 60.

As shown in Figures 1, 2a, 2b, 3a and 7 to 10 and 27 to 30 in the preferred embodiment, the front restraining apparatus 17 comprises a first securement device 18 located towards a first lateral side of the front restraining apparatus 17 and a second securement device 18 located towards a second lateral side. The first securement device is arranged to secure within a first track 32, 34, 36 whilst the second securement device 18 is arranged to secure within a second track 32, 34, 36. The use of two opposing securement devices 18 coupled by a fixing plate 20 significantly increases the stability and strength of the securement force when compared to the use of only a single securement device 18. Furthermore, the fixing plate 20 includes securement elements comprising four downwardly extending lugs 40 which are arranged to locate and engage in the partial cylindrical recess provided in the track 32, 34, 36. The lugs 40 are spaced apart in order to co-operate with the partial cylindrical recesses. This prevents or inhibits movement of the restraining apparatus 10 along the longitudinal direction of the tracks 32, 34, 36 and also prevents or inhibits rotation of the restraining apparatus 10 over the surface 11 of the ambulance floor.

The securement devices 18 are arranged to locate on both lateral sides of the restraining device 12. This reduces the moments between the retaining element 14 and the securement devices 18. However, in one embodiment the securement devices 18 may be located closer together and possibly partially below the retaining element 14, as shown in Figures 16 to 20. This enables the width of the restraining apparatus 17 to be relatively narrow and is primarily for use with narrow tracks, for example tracks having a lateral separation of 200mm.

The front restraining apparatus 17 provides a retaining element 14 which is permanently secured to the fixing plate. The retaining element 14 provides a surface to co- operate and/or abut a part 16 (preferably a tube or frame member) of the front of the stretcher 15. The retaining element 14 prevents or restricts lateral movement and upwards movement of the front of the stretcher 15 relative to the floor 11 of the ambulance. The retaining element comprises outwardly tapering engagement surfaces which may co-operate with two side frames 31 members and a lower frame member 16 of the front of the stretcher 15. The retaining element 14 locates through two brackets 200, 202 provided at the head end of the stretcher 15 as shown in Figure 2b. The retaining element 14 (or spike) locates in an aperture or opening provided by the base frame of the stretcher at the head end. The first bracket 200 retains the stretcher base at the head end whilst the second bracket 202 retains the stretcher top at the head end.

The retaining element 14 is arranged to restrain or retain a part of the support apparatus located along the longitudinal central axis of the stretcher. The forces from the central axis will be substantially evenly distributed to the first securement device and first track and the second securement device and the second track.

As shown in Figures 4, 7 and 11 to 15 and 31 to 34 the rear restraining apparatus 19 comprises a fixing plate 30 having a restraining device 22 mounted thereon. The fixing plate 30 also comprises two securement devices 18 located on the lateral sides of the fixing plate 30 either side of the restraining device 22. Again, the first securement device 18 (including lugs 40) is laterally movable relative to the second securement device through the enlarged opening 23 and slots 29.

The restraining device 22 comprises a plurality of retaining elements 24 in order to engage a part 26 (preferably a frame member or tube) of the rear of the stretcher 15. The rear restraining device is arranged to restrain a part of the stretcher which locates along the central longitudinal axis of the stretcher. This effectively substantially evenly distributes the forces from the stretcher to the first securement device and the first track and to the second securement device and the second track. The retaining elements 24 are movable and selectively engage and release the rear part 26 of the stretcher 15. The retaining elements are resiliently bias such that the part 26 of the stretcher 15 may cause the retaining elements 24 to move downwardly before moving upwardly in order to engage the stretcher 15. The retaining elements 24 can then be moved by a foot pedal 28 in order to move downwardly in order for the stretcher 15 to be moved out of engagement within the restraint arrangement 10. In one embodiment the engagement and release mechanism may be electrically actuated. The rear restraining device 19 may include auxiliary retaining elements 25 or co-operating elements which work in co- operation with the retaining elements 24 to restrict or prevent movement of the stretcher 15 primarily along the longitudinal extend of the tracks 32, 34, 36.

In one embodiment the securement devices 18 are located on the fixing plate 30 on either lateral side of the restraining device, as shown in Figures 4, 7 and 11 to 15.

This arrangement is particular for use with a track separation of 255mm.

In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 16 and 21 to 24 the securement devices 18 are located or positioned on the fixing plate 30 towards one longitudinal end of the fixing plate 30 such that the restraining device 22 locates to the rear of the securement devices 18. This arrangement is particularly useful for a pair of tracks which are relatively narrow for example 200mm.

In use, the front restraining apparatus 17 is releasably secured in the tracks 32, 34, 36 using the quick release mechanisms of the securement devices 18 together with the securement lugs 40 engaging in the part cylindrical recesses. The rear restraining apparatus 19 can then be positioned at a set or pre-selected distance from the front restraining 17. Again, the rear restraining apparatus 19 is secured in the pair of tracks 32, 34, 36 using two securement devices 18 and four securement lugs 40.

A front part 16 of the stretcher 15 is then arranged to engage and cooperate with the retaining element 14 provided by the front restraining device 12. A rear part 26 of the stretcher 15 is also engaged by retaining elements 24 provided by the rear restraining device 22.

The rear restraining device 22 comprises a quick release mechanism which is arranged to move the or each retaining element 24 out of engagement with the stretcher 15 in order for the stretcher 15 to be quickly and easily removed. The quick release mechanism may comprise a pedal 28 in order to movably move the or each retaining element 24 into or out of engagement with the stretcher 15.

Alternatively, the quick release mechanism may comprise electrically powered means in order to move the retaining elements 24. The initial engagement of the stretcher 15 by the retaining elements 24 of the rear restraining device 22 may be automatic such that a part of the stretcher 15 moves the retaining elements 24 against a bias which, once the part 26 of the stretcher 15 has passed over the retaining elements 24, urges the retaining elements 24 into a retaining position. The movement also simultaneously causes a front part of the stretcher to engage with the front retaining element 14.

The stretcher 15 can therefore be quickly and easily engaged and restrained by the restraint arrangement 10.

Similarly, the stretcher 15 can be quickly and easily removed from the restraint arrangement 10. The restraint arrangement 10 can also be quickly and easily released from the tracks 32, 34, 36 in order for the rear of the ambulance to be reconfigured, for example, in order for a plurality of seats to be located in place of the stretcher 15.

It can be seen that the present invention provides a quick and easy method of reconfiguring the arrangement of apparatus supported within the rear of an ambulance. This may be particularly advantageous in the situation where the ambulance incorporates a number of seats for the occupants and one of the occupants (for example, an elderly person) is suddenly taken ill. The ambulance may be storing a stretcher 15 which can then be quickly and easily installed in order for almost immediate use by the sick or ill occupant.

As shown in Figure 42 and Figure 43, an alternative embodiment of a securement device 18 comprises an elongate body member 70 having a number of securement lugs or projections which project downwardly from the body member 70. The securement lugs 72 or feet are spaced in order to locate within the sockets or cylindrical recesses provided by a track. The securement device 18 comprises one (or more) movable lugs 74 which can extend away or retract towards the lower side of the main body member 70. The movable lug 74 is connected to a locking plunger 76 which extends and retracts the movable lug 74 and locks the movable lug 74 in a lower or raised position. The locking plunger 76 is surrounded by an anti-rattle device.

All of the lugs 72 are spaced apart to be inserted through and into the sockets of the track. However, the movable plunger is offset from the lugs 72 such that the movable lug 74 and the lugs 72 cannot simultaneously be inserted into or out of the sockets.

In use, the movable lug 74 is in a raised position (i.e. towards the underside of the body member) . The lugs 72 are then aligned with the sockets in the track and inserted therethrough. The securement device is then moved along the track (preferably forwards along the track) until the movable lug 74 is aligned with a socket.

In this position flanges 73 provided on the lower ends of the lugs 72 locate underneath respective edges 42, 44 provided by the track. The plunger then moves the movable foot 74 downwardly which causes the upper surfaces of the flanges 73 to engage with the undersides of the respective edges 42,44. The securement device is thereby engaged in the track.

In order to release the securement device the movable foot 74 is retracted and the securement device is moved (preferably rearwardly) along the track until the lugs 72 are aligned with respect sockets. The securement device 18 can then be released and removed from the track.

This securement device is suitable for the tracks previously described and as shown in Figures 5, 44, 45 and 46. In particular, the securement device can be used with the track designed for the Millennium System of NMI Safety Systems Limited.

Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s) . The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features

disclosed in this specification (including any

accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

Claims 1. A restraint arrangement for support apparatus, the arrangement

comprising restraining apparatus comprising a restraining device which is arranged to releasably restrain a part of the support apparatus, the restraining apparatus further comprising a first securement device which is arranged, in use, to releasably secure the restraining apparatus to a first track and a second securement device which is arranged, in use, to releasably secure the restraining apparatus to a second track.
2. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 1 in which the first securement device is coupled to the second securement device.
3. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 in which the restraint arrangement is arranged, in use, to restrain the support apparatus to a support surface.
4. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 3 in which the support surface comprises a surface within a vehicle.
5. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 4 in which the vehicle comprises an ambulance.
6. A restraint arrangement according to any preceding claim in which the support apparatus comprises a stretcher.
7. A restraint arrangement according to any preceding claim in which the first securement device comprises a quick release mechanism.
8. A restraint arrangement according to any preceeding claim in which the restraining apparatus comprises a securement element which is arranged, in use, to engage a part of the track.
9. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 8 in which the securement element is arranged, in use, to project into a recess provided in the track.
10. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 9 in which the recess comprises two opposed arcuate surfaces.
11. A restraint arrangement according to any preceding claim in which the restraining apparatus comprises four securement elements each of which locates towards a corner of the restraining apparatus.
12. A restraint arrangement according to any preceding claim in which the restraining apparatus comprises a fixing plate.
13. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 12 in which the fixing plate couples the first securement device to the secured securement device.
14. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 12 or Claim 13 in which the second securement device is movable relative to the fixing plate.
15. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 14 in which the second securement device is movable on the fixing plate to enable the lateral separation distance of the first securement device and the second securement device

to be adjustable.
16. A restraint arrangement according to any preceding claim in which the first securement device locates adjacent to a first lateral side of the restraining device and the second securement device locates adjacent to a second lateral side of the restraining device.
17. A restraint arrangement according to any preceding claim in which the first securement device locates towards a first longitudinal end of the restraining apparatus relative to the restraining device and the second securement device locates towards the first longitudinal end of the restraining apparatus relative to the restraining device.
18. A restraint arrangement according to any preceding claim in which the or each track comprises a channel having an entrance region defined by a first flange and a second flange and a retaining region.
19. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 18 in which the first flange and the second flange comprise opposing arcuate surfaces which define partial cylindrical recesses which are spaced along the longitudinal length of the or each track.
20. A restraint arrangement according to any preceding claim in which the securement device comprises a first plate and a second plate which have a first engagement flange and a second engagement flange respectively provided thereon.
21. A restraint arrangement according to any preceding claim in which the first plate and the second plate are bias or resiliently arranged towards a first inner position.
22. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 21 in which in the inner position the engagement flanges of the plates can be inserted through the entrance region of the track in order to locate in the retaining region.
23. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 22 wherein once in the retaining region an actuating member causes the first plate and second plate (or at least the engagement flanges thereof) to move outwardly relative to each other in order for the securement device to be in a secured position.
24. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 23 in which the actuating member is arranged to be moved by a first handle.
25. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 24 in which a second handle is arranged, in use, to prevent movement of the first handle.
26. A restraint arrangement according to any preceding claim in which the restraint arrangement comprises first restraining apparatus and second restraining apparatus.
27. A restraint arrangement according to Claim 26 in which the first restraining apparatus comprises front restraining apparatus to restrain a front part of the support apparatus and the second restraining apparatus comprises rear restraining apparatus to restrain a rear part of the support apparatus.
28. A restraint arrangement according to any preceding claim in which the first track is parallel to the second track.
29. A method of restraining support apparatus comprising releasably securing a first securement device of a restraining apparatus within a first track and releasably securing a second securement device of the restraining apparatus within a second track and releasably restraining support apparatus with a restraining device of the restraining apparatus.
30. A method according to Claim 29 in which the method comprises restraining a stretcher within a vehicle.
31. A vehicle comprising a restraint arrangement wherein the restraint arrangement is in accordance with any one of Claims 1 to 28.
32. A method of reconfiguring an arrangement of support apparatus within a vehicle comprising releasably restraining support apparatus with a restraint arrangement in which the restraint arrangement is in accordance with any one of Claims 1 to 28.
33. A method according to Claim 32 in which the method comprises releasing a seat from a track and releasably securing support apparatus within a first track and a second track.
34. A restraint arrangement for support apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to, and as shown in, any of the accompanying drawings.
35. A method of restraining support apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to, and as shown in, any of the accompanying drawings.
36. A vehicle comprising a restraint arrangement substantially as herein described with reference to, and as shown in, any of the accompanying drawings.
37. A method of reconfiguring an arrangement of support apparatus within a vehicle substantially as herein described with reference to, and as shown in, any of the accompanying drawings.