Comparison of trunk mechanics and spatiotemporal outcomes in caregivers using a robotic assisted transfer device and a mobile floor lift

Assisted transfers place physical and mental strain on caregivers, potentially leading to short-term strain and chronic back pain. Mobile transfer lifts are suggested to reduce the load on caregivers' backs and provide safety for longer-distance transfers. The study compares a Robotic Assisted Transfer Device (RATD) with a mobile floor lift to see if the RATD can reduce harmful postures and expand transfer workspaces. The design and usability of a RATD indicates design driven mobility advantages over clinical standard mobile floor lifts due to its ability to expand the workspace while further reducing risk factors for low back pain.

• 1
  Caregivers using the RATD showed significantly smaller ranges of trunk flexion-extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation compared to using a mobile floor lift.
• 2
  The RATD required significantly less distance to cover the transfer compared to the mobile floor lift.
• 3
  The RATD demonstrated lower average instantaneous velocity and acceleration compared to the mobile floor lift.