eFX Paramedic Seat | 2022-2023

Designers: Luc Bourgeois, Brio Innovation, Laval, Quebec, Canada
Manufacturer: Demers Braun Manufacturier d'Ambulances Inc., Beloeil, Quebec, Canada

The self-locking ambulance seat offers a unique solution to improve the safety and efficiency of paramedics. With a mandate to create the ultimate work environment for paramedics, Brio innovation first analyzed a multitude of emergency real life scenarios, ranging from benign to life-threatening situations. The finding was striking: Most of seats currently offered in the industry do not provide the mobility needed to treat patients comfortably and efficiently.

Demers Ambulances and Brio Innovation challenged the existing paradigms and the status quo by designing a self-locking, high-mobility action seat that allows the paramedics to perform their care maneuvers while remaining seated and restrained. This new system empowers them to move fluidly with their legs, while keeping their hands free. It offers an increased range of motion, improving access to the patient and the necessary medical equipment.
An evaluation prototype for ergonomics confirmed Brio hypotheses during tests conducted with users of various morphologies. A saddle-shaped seat ensures stability and control during travel.

The seat is very compact and comfortable. On a more technical aspect, a major challenge was to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. The engineering team at Demers Ambulances developed the aluminum base featuring double linked interdependent pivots. The seat is equipped with a 4-point belt and is self-locking in case of impact. Control buttons are strategically positioned at the front of the seat and behind the headrest to lock and unblock the motion if desired. A lever under the front of the seat allows for additional fore and aft adjustments. Its small footprint is a major asset for moving around the cabin and cleaning quickly between jobs.

Brio Innovation has created a contrast between the fluid lines of cushions and the structured lines of the shell, which represent a protective element.
This seat bears a modern and elegant attitude. The contours were slimmed down, conveying a sense of lightness while perfectly integrating the seat into the limited space of the ambulance. The neutral color of the whole translates the intention to harmonize and soften the packed space of the ambulance. Simplifying the life of the paramedics is ensuring a quality of care to the patients. This seat is a paradigm shift for the industry and Brio Innovation is proud to have contributed to this meaningful project that will enhance the efficiency and safety of paramedics, these modern heroes.