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Media
Source:
FLC Mid-Atlantic Region Website |
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| About the Technology: |
 SFC Eric Smeed of the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research (USAISR)
has developed a patent-protected metal framework that attaches to evacuation litters and holds individual pieces of medical equipment needed for optimal patient transport. The Special Medical Emergency Evacuation Device (SMEED) stabilizes a variety of medical devices, such as ventilators and oxygen cylinders, replacing the traditional method of attaching such equipment directly to the transported patient. Lightweight and adjustable, the 14-inch by 22-inch SMEED adapts
for use in any Department of Defense medical vehicle. |
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| Applications: |
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Military and Commercial Significance: |
| SFC Smeed invented the critical care platform specifically to lessen the discomfort of burn victims during medical transport. Enthusiastic responses from those testing his prototype convinced Smeed that the creation had greater lifesaving potential through technology transfer. The Army physical therapist refined his design through several
prototypes, while searching for development funding that ultimately came
from the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Development Activity. The Army subsequently patented the device and in 2002 awarded a Small Business Innovation Research contract and exclusive license agreement to Impact
Instrumentation, Inc. of New Jersey. The company further developed the
technology, manufacturing a commercial product now on the market.
The U.S. military has purchased hundreds of the company’s SMEED
platforms, currently used by medical units deployed in Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. |
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The commercialization exemplifies the military goal of technology transition, moving a military-designed technology to private industry for development and eventual government purchase for general military use. The SMEED solves critical problems of limited time and space typical in combat and other disaster situations. It eliminates the need to fasten uncomfortable equipment directly to Special Medical Emergency Evacuation Device (SMEED) Department of Defense U.S. Army Institute
of Surgical Research patients and gives health care providers
a clear view of any readout monitors on attached medical devices. As
patients are transferred from point of injury to various care centers, delicate equipment can be quickly exchanged or added as needed. The SMEED technology expedites the evacuation of wounded soldiers, preserving lives and safeguarding military resources. |
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| Industry Contact: |
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Government Contact: |
Impact Instrumentation, Inc
P.O. Box 508
West Caldwell, NJ 07007-0508
Telephone: (973) 882-1212
Country: USA
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United States Army Institute of Surgical Research
3400 Rawley E. Chambers Avenue
Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234-6315
Telephone: (210) 916-3219
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