A Novel Approach to Patient Transfer: Multi-Fold Wheelchair cum wheeled Stretcher/Bed Integration

Abstract

Efficient and safe patient transfer remains a critical challenge in healthcare settings, particularly for individuals with limited mobility or genetic disorders such as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). To address the difficulties faced by nursing staff during patient transportation and handling, this research presents the design and fabrication of a multi-fold convertible wheelchair-stretcher. The proposed system employs a chain and rod mechanism to enable seamless transformation between wheelchair and stretcher modes. When actuated, the mechanism raises the footrest to seat level while simultaneously lowering the backrest, creating a flat, stretcher-like platform. Reversing the mechanism returns the device to its wheelchair configuration. The compact, foldable design ensures adaptability for both hospital environments and in-home care, offering enhanced convenience, safety, and mobility

Introduction

The development of multi-functional, affordable, and adaptable assistive mobility devices is crucial, especially in resource-limited areas like rural healthcare centers and disaster zones. Traditional wheelchairs and stretchers are often expensive, bulky, and lack versatility in emergencies. To address this, the text proposes an innovative Electric Wheelchair Cum Stretcher made primarily from scrap materials such as discarded bicycles, hospital trolleys, and electric motors. This sustainable, low-cost design aligns with frugal engineering principles by reducing environmental waste and manufacturing costs.

The device can easily convert between a wheelchair and a stretcher via an electric motor-driven mechanism using a chain and sprocket transmission, allowing patient transport and stabilization with motorized propulsion and reclining features. The frame is made from mild steel pipes and reused parts, designed for durability and modularity.

The literature review highlights prior work on manual and electric wheelchair-stretcher hybrids focusing on ergonomics, space efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The proposed system improves upon these by integrating electric actuation and maximizing use of recycled components, making it ideal for rural clinics, ambulances, and home care where traditional equipment may be impractical.

Key technical specs include a 12V brushed DC motor with worm gear reduction, steel chain drives, and a chassis designed to support a 60 kg user. The estimated cost of the prototype is under ?5,000, largely due to repurposing scrap materials, ensuring economic feasibility for low-income settings.

Conclusion

The integration of a multi-fold wheelchair cum wheeled stretcher/bed presents a transformative step forward in the realm of rural healthcare mobility solutions. By combining multiple patient handling devices into a single, foldable unit—designed with affordability, simplicity, and ease of use in mind—this approach directly addresses the pressing challenges of space constraints, limited medical infrastructure, and scarcity of trained caregivers often found in rural and resource-limited settings. The proposed design, which utilizes repurposed components and a mechanically efficient folding mechanism, not only offers practical functionality but also aligns with the principles of sustainable engineering. It empowers caregivers to perform patient transfers with minimal physical effort and improves the safety, dignity, and comfort of immobile individuals. In essence, this research reinforces the potential of frugal innovation and human-centered design in bridging the gap between healthcare demand and accessibility in underserved communities. Future enhancements, such as motorized actuation or smart monitoring capabilities, can further extend its utility in both pre-hospital and in-facility care scenarios.

References

[1] e. Jyothish K Sunny, \"Design and Fabrication of Stretcher Cum Wheel,\" IJIRST –International Journal for Innovative Research in Science & Technology, pp. 647-653, April 2016. [2] P. A. e. al, A Guide to Wheelchair Selection: How to Use the ANSI/RESNA Wheelchair Standards to Buy a Wheelchair, Washington: Paralyzed Veterans of America, 1994. [3] S. M. A. N. B. M. Mohit Kumar, \"Design and Development of Wheelchair Cum Stretcher Mechanism,\" iJRASET-International Journal for Research in Applied Science and Engineering Technology, vol. 10, no. VII, p. 2078–2084, 2022. [4] Y. K. ,. H. S. Siddhant Pawar, \"Design and Analysis of Electric Wheelchair cum Stretcher,\" IOSR Journal of Mechanical and Civil Engineering (IOSR-JMCE), vol. 18, no. 3, pp. 16-29, 2021. [5] U. T. A. D. P. P. S. P. N.S.Patil, \"A Review of Design and Fabrication of Wheelchair cum Bed,\" IJSRD - International Journal for Scientific Research & Development, vol. 8, no. 12, pp. 99-100, 2021

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Mrs. Shraddha Gupte, Mr. Rohan Gupte, Mr. Shubham Sawant. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.