Patient body weight sensing on surgical table

Abstract

A patient operating table includes a patient support mattress for supporting a body weight of a patient. The base frame supports a patient support mattress. A plurality of caster assemblies are connected to the base frame. Each caster assembly includes at least one caster and a strain sensor plate having a first load-bearing side and a second load-bearing side, the first load-bearing side including a flexible spring having an annular shape located at least partially within an outer edge of the strain sensor plate. The first load-bearing side is operably coupled to the at least one caster and the second load-bearing side is operably coupled to the base frame support. Thus, the weight applied from the base frame is transferred from the second load-bearing side to the first load-bearing side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a patient table with a weight sensing system. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a strain sensor plate coupled to a caster. The present disclosure also relates to determining the patient's weight based on the magnitude of displacement or deformation of the strain sensor plate. Background Art

[0002] In many medical settings, it is necessary to accurately monitor the weight of a patient who is restrained to a support surface (e.g., a bed, an operating table, a surgical table, etc.). Observation of weight can be used for dosage, administration of other substances, and medical considerations. In addition, monitoring of changes in a patient's weight can be used to determine various medical conditions, such as fluid retention, dehydration, blood loss, etc.

[0003] The importance of accurately monitoring the weight of a patient restrained on a support surface has led to the emergence of various prior art techniques. For example, U.S. Patent No. 7,472,440 describes a weight monitoring system for a patient support surface, the weight monitoring system including a load cell mounted on casters, the load cell providing a current or voltage output proportional to the weight supported. Although weight monitoring systems can accurately obtain and record weight and weight changes in some cases, there are also some disadvantages. For example, certain types of load cells may be prone to failure, abnormality or degradation, and there are different situations where the load cell readings may be inaccurate. For example, if the patient support surface is inclined, the patient's weight may not be evenly distributed between two or more load cells, resulting in inaccurate weight measurements.

[0004] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a strain sensor plate with an improved structure and a system for ensuring accurate weight measurement in different scenarios. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a patient operating table includes a patient support mattress for supporting the weight of a patient. A base frame supports the patient support mattress. A plurality of caster assemblies are connected to the base frame. Each caster assembly includes at least one caster and a strain sensor plate, the strain sensor plate having a first load-bearing side and a second load-bearing side, the first load-bearing side including a flexible spring having an annular shape at least partially located within an outer edge of the strain sensor plate. The first load-bearing side is operably connected to the at least one caster, and the second load-bearing side is operably connected to the base frame support. Therefore, the weight applied from the base frame is transferred from the second load-bearing side to the first load-bearing side.

[0006] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a caster assembly for a patient operating table includes at least one caster and a caster housing having a base connection portion. A strain sensor plate has a first load-bearing side connected to the base connection portion and a second load-bearing side for connecting to a provided base frame. The strain sensor plate defines a plate opening. A brake lever is movable in a vertical direction within the plate opening.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for obtaining a patient's weight using a patient operating table includes a first step of determining whether the patient operating table is tilted below a threshold value using a level sensor to obtain an accurate measurement. Then, a relative displacement between a first load-bearing side and a second load-bearing side is measured using a strain gauge to form a baseline displacement. Next, the patient is placed on a support mattress of the patient operating table. Then, a further relative displacement between the first load-bearing side and the second load-bearing side is measured using a strain gauge. Then, the patient's weight is obtained based on the further relative displacement.

[0008] According to another related aspect of the present disclosure, a patient operating table includes a patient support mattress configured to support a patient's weight. A base frame is configured to support the patient support mattress. A plurality of caster assemblies are connected to the base frame. Each caster assembly includes at least one caster, a strain sensor plate defining a recess, and a control unit located in the recess and configured to determine a displacement of the strain sensor to obtain the patient's weight.

[0009] These and other features, advantages and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by referring to the following description, claims and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] In the attached picture:

[0011] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of an operating table according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the operating table including a weight sensing system disposed between a plurality of caster assemblies;

[0012] Figure 2 is a top perspective view of a caster assembly according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 3 is a top perspective view of a strain sensor plate according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 4 is a bottom perspective view of a strain sensor plate according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 5 is a bottom perspective view of a caster assembly according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 6is a top plan view of a caster assembly according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 7 is a bottom perspective view of a caster assembly with the caster removed and showing a brake lever according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 8 is a side view of a brake lever according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0019] Fig. 9 schematically illustrates a weight sensing system according to one aspect of the present disclosure; and

[0020] Fig.10 A method of obtaining a patient's weight according to one aspect of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The embodiment shown in the drawings is a combination of method steps and device components related to a patient operating table with a weight sensing system. Accordingly, conventional symbols are used in the drawings to represent device components and method steps as appropriate, and only specific details related to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure are shown to avoid confusing the subject matter of the present disclosure by redundantly describing details that a person of ordinary skill in the art would understand after reading the specification. In addition, similar reference numerals in the specification and drawings represent similar elements.

[0022] For the purpose of this specification, the terms "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "front", "rear", "horizontal", "vertical" and their derivatives shall refer to Figure 1 The disclosure shown. Unless otherwise stated, the term "front" shall refer to the surface closest to the intended viewer and the term "rear" shall refer to the surface farthest from the intended viewer. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure may assume various alternative orientations unless otherwise expressly stated. It should also be understood that the specific structures and processes shown in the drawings and described in the specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined by the appended claims. Therefore, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments of the present disclosure should not be considered limiting unless otherwise expressly stated in the claims.

[0023] The terms "includes," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, i.e., a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only those elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element followed by "includes...", without more limitations, does not exclude the existence of other identical elements in those processes, methods, articles, or apparatuses that include that element.

[0024] First refer to Figure 1, reference numeral 10 generally represents a patient operating table. The patient operating table 10 includes a patient support mattress 12 and a mattress support frame 14 that supports and positions the patient support mattress 12. In some embodiments, the patient support mattress 12 includes two or more (e.g., three, four, five, or six) cushions 16, and the mattress support frame 14 may include two or more sub-support frames 18 (e.g., three, four, five, or six). The sub-support frames 18 may be operably connected by a connecting rod 20, which allows the articulation between adjacent sub-support frames 18 to position the patient in different directions. The patient operating table 10 also includes a base frame 22, which includes a plurality of caster assemblies 24, which allow the patient operating table 10 to travel between different locations in a medical institution (e.g., along the X-axis and the Z-axis). The central base 26 operably connects the base frame 22 to the mattress support frame 14. The central base 26 can be vertically (e.g., along the Y-axis) adjustable between various positions to accommodate the needs of the caregiver. More specifically, the center base 26 can include a series of telescopically adjustable sleeves 28. In some embodiments, the center base 26 is centrally connected to the base frame 22 between the caster assemblies 24 and centrally connected to the mattress support frame 14 so that the patient's center of gravity is substantially aligned therewith. In some embodiments, a center wheel (not shown) can be located below the center base 26 to facilitate movement around the medical facility. The center wheel can be self-driven via a motor to assist in movement along the X-axis and Z-axis, etc. The center wheel can be moved between an operating position that supports at least a portion of the patient's weight and a storage position that is a certain distance from the floor of the medical facility and does not support the patient's weight.

[0025] Continue to refer to Figure 1, the patient operating table 10 includes a weight sensing system 30, which includes a plurality of caster assemblies 24. The weight sensing system 30 accurately obtains the weight of the patient located on the patient operating table 10 and transmits the obtained weight, thereby allowing the caregiver to choose to perform subsequent operations such as determining a dosage regimen. The weight sensing system 30 may further include a monitor 32 (e.g., a tablet computer, a display, a personal electronic device, etc.), which is paired with the patient operating table 10 in a wired or wireless configuration to display the obtained weight. It is envisioned that the monitor 32 can be configured to transmit the obtained weight to other components in the medical institution. For example, the monitor 32 can be configured to transmit the obtained weight to a medical record database. In some embodiments, the patient support mattress 12 may include a mark 34 aligned with the central base 26. The mark 34 can serve as a reminder for the caregiver to align the patient with the patient support mattress 12 so that the patient's center of gravity (e.g., below and near its navel) is substantially aligned with the mark 34, thereby also aligned with the central base 26. The weight sensing system 30 may further include one or more level sensors 35 to determine whether the caster assembly 24 is located on a flat, non-inclined surface (e.g., along a plane defined by an X-axis and a Z-axis). In some embodiments, the one or more level sensors 35 may include an accelerometer adjacent to each caster assembly 24. For example, the level sensors 35 may be located inside or on each caster assembly 24, inside or on a corner of the base frame 22, inside or on the center base 26, and / or inside or on the mattress support frame 14. As will be described in more detail herein, when the caster assembly 24 is located on an uneven surface, such as a slope, non-planar terrain, etc., the weight sensing system 30 may be configured to take into account the uneven distribution of weight to one or more specific caster assemblies 24.

[0026] Now refer to Figure 2 , an exemplary structure of the caster assembly 24 is provided. It should be understood that each caster assembly 24 can have the same features, components, materials and functions. The caster assembly 24 includes at least one caster 36 (e.g., a pair of casters) and a caster housing 38. The caster housing 38 includes a front fender portion 40 and a rear fender portion 42, which together protect the at least one caster 36 and provide vertical clearance. The caster housing 38 may also include a divider 44 located between each caster 36. Each caster 36 is connected to the divider 44 for rotation. The caster housing 38 also includes a base connection portion 46 for operably connecting to the base frame 22. The caster housing 38 and the caster 36 can be rotatably connected relative to the base frame 22 (e.g., parallel to the Figure 1The strain sensor plate 48 is connected to the base connection portion 46 of the caster housing 38. The strain sensor plate 48 defines a plate opening 50. On the side of the strain sensor plate 48 opposite the caster housing 38, an inner collar 52 is aligned with the plate opening 50.

[0027] Continue to refer to Figure 2 , the table lift connector 56 is operably connected to the inner collar 52. In some embodiments, the table lift connector 56 introduces fluid into the caster assembly 24 via a fluid circuit (e.g., a hydraulic circuit, a pneumatic circuit, etc.). More specifically, the inner collar 52 defines a collar opening 54, and the caster housing 38 defines a housing opening that is aligned with both the collar opening 54 and the plate opening 50. The brake lever 58 ( Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 ) is movable (e.g., via a fluid circuit) through each plate opening 50 and collar opening 54 until it contacts the floor of the medical facility and lifts the other components from the patient table 10 to a parked position. In the parked position, a caregiver can transfer a patient to or from the patient table 10 or otherwise perform certain tasks without moving the patient table 10. The inner collar 52 may include an outwardly flared portion 53 toward its bottom surface. In some embodiments, the brake lever 58 may include a fixed portion 57 ( Figure 7 ) and a movable portion 59 that extends and contracts (e.g., telescopically) relative to the fixed portion 57 via operation of a fluid circuit.

[0028] Now refer to Figure 3 , a strain sensor plate 48 is shown. The strain sensor plate 48 includes an outer plate edge 60, which partially defines a first load-bearing side 62 and a second load-bearing side 64 offset from the first load-bearing side 62 in a horizontal direction (e.g., X-axis). The caster housing 38 is operably coupled to the first load-bearing side 62, and the base frame 22 is operably coupled to the second load-bearing side 64. Therefore, strain is applied between the first load-bearing side 62 and the second load-bearing side 64, and increases when the patient's weight increases. By measuring the strain difference before and after the patient is placed thereon, the patient's accurate weight can be obtained. Similarly, changes in strain can indicate changes in the patient's weight.

[0029] Continue to refer to Figure 3 , the outer panel edge 60 can define a Norman window type shape, which can also be described as a combination of a semicircular and a rectangular shape. In some embodiments, the first load-bearing side 62 defines a semicircular portion of the outer panel edge 60, and the second load-bearing side 64 defines at least a portion of the rectangular portion of the outer panel edge 60. The rectangular portion of the outer panel edge 60 can define a pair of rounded corners opposite the semicircular portion of the outer panel edge 60. The strain sensor plate 48 includes an upper surface 66 ( Figure 3 ) and the lower surface 68 ( Figure 4 ). The first load-bearing side 62 may include a flexible spring 70 located within the outer plate edge 60. The flexible spring 70 includes an outer spring edge 72 that at least partially defines a channel 74 extending through the upper surface 66 and the lower surface 68. The channel 74 may be curved. The flexible spring 70 also includes an inner spring edge 76 that at least partially defines the plate opening 50. In addition, the strain sensor plate 48 may include an inner plate edge 78 that, together with the outer spring edge 72, defines the channel 74. The outer spring edge 72, the inner plate edge 78, and the channel 74 defined therebetween may be symmetrical about a centerline "CL" that extends centrally through the first load-bearing side 62 and the second load-bearing side 64. In some embodiments, the strain sensor plate 48 as a whole is also symmetrical about the centerline "CL".

[0030] The outer spring edge 72 can be partially circular, and the inner spring edge 76 can be substantially circular and extend around the central axis A, so that the flexible spring 70 is at least partially annular in shape. For example, the outer spring edge 72 can extend from a coextensive portion 80 connected to an arm 81 of the first load-bearing side 62 along an independent portion 82. The independent portion 82 can extend circumferentially between 180° and 360°. In one example, the independent portion 82 extends more than 270° relative to the central axis A. In other words, the at least partially annular flexible spring 70 can also be defined as a horseshoe shape. The width of the flexible spring 70 between the outer spring edge 72 and the inner spring edge 76 can be substantially uniform, except for the widened portion 84, wherein each widened portion 84 defines one or more holes 86 (e.g., a pair of holes) for connection. The widened portion 84 can be defined by the outer spring edge 72 and be semicircular, with the hole 86 being substantially located in the center between the outer spring edge 72 and the inner spring edge 76. The coextensive portion 80 can also define one or more holes 86 (e.g., a pair of holes) for connection. In some embodiments, the holes 86 defined by the coextensive portion 80 are closer to each other than the relative spacing between the holes 86 defined by the widened portion 84. In some embodiments, the inner plate edge 78 includes a groove 88 adjacent to the widened portion 84. In some embodiments, the space between the outer spring edge 72 and the inner plate edge 78 (e.g., the channel 74) is substantially uniform around the independent portion 82, but includes a larger spacing between the widened portion 84 and the groove 88. The channel 74 may include a pair of opposing ends 90 at the coextensive portion 80, wherein the spacing between the outer spring edge 72 and the inner plate edge 78 is greater than the other portions of the channel 74 but less than the spacing between the widened portion 84 and the groove 88.

[0031] Refer again Figure 2, the flared portion 53 of the inner collar 52 is located on the independent portion 82. The outer surface of the flared portion 53 can be located inside the inner plate edge 78. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the flared portion 53 is located between the inner spring edge 76 and the inner plate edge 78. In other embodiments, the outer surface of the flared portion 53 is located between the inner spring edge 76 and the outer spring edge 72. Therefore, the weight applied to the inner collar 52 from the patient operating table 10 can cause the second load-bearing side 64 to bend (i.e., displace) relative to the flexible spring 70. In some embodiments, the flared portion 53 can be rigidly fixed to one or both of the flexible spring 70 and the fixed portion 57 of the brake lever 58. In this way, the weight sensing system 30 can be able to obtain the patient's weight when the brake lever 58 is in the parked position (e.g., the weight applied to the flexible spring 70 via the flared portion 53) and the unparked position (e.g., the weight applied to the flexible spring 70 via the caster 36).

[0032] The second load-bearing side 64 may also define one or more holes 86 (e.g., two pairs of holes) to facilitate connection. In some embodiments, the hole 86 is located next to each groove 88 on one side of the centerline "CL", and the hole 86 is located next to each fillet of the outer plate edge 60. The recess 92 may be at least partially located between the holes 86 defined by the second load-bearing side 64. The recess 92 may be defined by the upper surface 66. A control unit 94 (e.g., a microcontroller) is located in the recess 92 so that its top surface is flush with or slightly recessed from the upper surface 66. At least one strain gauge 96 is operably connected to the control unit 94 via at least one conductor 98 (e.g., a conductive line or wire). The strain gauge 96 may include a pair of strain gauges 96 located between the outer plate edge 60 and the inner plate edge 78. For example, each strain gauge 96 is located on the arm 81 of the second load-bearing side 64 on the opposite side of the independent portion 82 of the flexible spring 70. More specifically, each strain gauge 96 may be aligned with the widened portion 84. The at least one strain gauge 96 may be configured to measure a force applied thereto, a magnitude of displacement of the arm 81 relative to the independent portion 82 of the flexible spring 70 , or the like.

[0033] Now refer to Figure 4 , showing the lower surface 68 of the strain sensor plate 48. The lower surface 68 can define a control housing 100, which extends therefrom to accommodate a control unit 94 that is thicker than the distance between the upper surface 66 and the lower surface 68. In some embodiments, the upper surface 66 and the lower surface 68 are planar and parallel. In other embodiments, the upper surface 66 and the lower surface 68 are planar and parallel, except for the control housing 100. In other embodiments, the thickness defined by the flexible spring 70 is less than the thickness defined by the second load-bearing side 64 ( Figure 2). The strain sensor plate 48 may be an integrally formed unit except for the control unit 94, the at least one strain gauge 96, and the at least one conductor 98. In some embodiments, the strain sensor plate 48 is formed via a stamping process. In some embodiments, the strain sensor plate 48 is formed of a material containing iron and carbon with one or more other metals or non-metals.

[0034] Reference now Figures 6 to 8 , further showing the caster assembly 24. The outer collar 102 is disposed on the inner collar 52, and the flexible spring 70 is clamped in the outer collar 102 ( Figure 7 ) and the base connecting portion 46 of the caster housing 38. Thus, in some embodiments, the flexible spring 70 remains constant and displacement occurs primarily in the arm 81 of the second load-bearing side 64. The base frame 22 includes a frame lower surface 104 that can define a bracket-type shape with a flat corner 106 and a side wall 107 that extends downwardly along the flat corner 106 to define a recess. A connector plate 108 can be located on the second load-bearing side 64 and connected thereto by a fastener 109 in each hole 86. Figure 7 The caster assembly 24 is shown with at least one caster 36 removed. The brake lever 58 may include an adjustable boot 114 that is adjustable in a vertical direction (eg, Y-axis). Figure 8 The brake lever 58 is further shown. The outer collar 102 can include a bottom flange 116 that defines a recess 112.

[0035] Reference now Figure 7 and Figure 8 , showing additional features of the outer collar 102 and the connector plate 108. The connector plate 108 can define an elliptical shape that is substantially aligned with and follows at least a portion of the outer plate edge 60 and the inner plate edge 78. The connector plate 108 and the flat corner 106 can further define a hole so that the fastener 109 extends through the connector plate 108, the flat corner 106 and the second load-bearing side 64. The outer collar 102 can define a fluid channel 110 that is in fluid communication with the table lift connection 56. The outer collar 102 can further define a substantially circular outer surface having a recess 112. In some embodiments, the connector plate 108 is at least partially located in the recess 112. The outer collar 102 can further include a hole 86 substantially aligned with the hole 86 on the first load-bearing side 62 (e.g., the flexible spring 70 and the coextensive portion 80) so that the fastener 109 can be connected thereto.

[0036] Fig. 9The control system 150 of the weight sensing system 30 is schematically shown. The control system 150 may include an electronic control unit (ECU) 152. The ECU 152 may be a plurality of ECUs 152, such as the control unit 94, or may be a global ECU 152 that communicates with the control unit 94 by wire or wireless communication. The ECU 152 may include a processor 154 and a memory 156. The processor 154 may include any suitable processor to support the weight sensing system. Additionally, or alternatively, the ECU 152 may include any suitable number of processors other than the processor 154. The memory 156 may include a single disk or multiple disks (e.g., a hard disk drive), and include a storage management module that manages one or more partitions within the memory 156. In some embodiments, the memory 156 may include flash memory, semiconductor (solid-state) memory, etc. The memory 156 may include a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or a combination thereof. The memory 156 may include instructions that, when executed by the processor 154, cause the processor 154 to perform at least the functions associated with the components of the weight sensing system 30. Thus, at least one strain gauge 96, at least one level sensor 35, and monitor 32 may be controlled and / or receive instructions from ECU 152. Thus, memory 156 may include software 158, displacement model 160 (i.e., in the case of patient weight gain), baseline displacement data 162 (i.e., in the case of patient weight gain), parameter data 164, and user preference data 166.

[0037] Continue to refer to Fig. 9, the weight sensing system 30 can be configured to perform the method steps described herein. For example, the displacement model 160 can include a conversion of the displacement of the strain sensor plate 48 to accurately obtain the patient's weight. The parameter data 164 can include horizontal information, such as whether the caster assembly 24 obtained from at least one horizontal sensor 35 is located on an inclined or non-inclined surface (e.g., along a plane defined by an X-axis and a Z-axis). The parameter data 164 can also include a first threshold tilt angle between two or more caster assemblies 24, where the patient's weight cannot be accurately obtained (e.g., 5 degrees or more, 10 degrees or more, 15 degrees or more, or 20 degrees or more). Therefore, if the tilt angle is higher than the first threshold, the ECU 152 can generate a visual or audible warning (e.g., via a monitor). In a similar manner, the parameter data 164 can further include a second threshold tilt angle associated with a tilt risk. The second threshold tilt angle can be associated with the extension of the center base 26, the weight obtained by the strain sensor plate 48, etc. In the case where there is a tilt angle but is lower than the first threshold tilt angle, the coefficient can be used with the displacement model 160 based on the tilt angle. The user preference data 166 may include, for example, communicating the obtained patient weight, using the obtained patient weight to generate a recommended dosage regimen, monitoring the patient's weight and generating a warning when weight loss or gain is associated with blood loss or fluid accumulation, etc. The baseline displacement data 162 may be monitored to determine whether the magnitude of the displacement remains consistent. For example, if the baseline displacement data 162 changes over repeated use, the software 158, displacement model 160, and parameter data 164 may be updated.

[0038] Fig.10A method 200 for obtaining a patient's weight is shown. In step 202 of method 200, at least one strain sensor plate 48 is positioned between a base frame 22 and casters 36 of a patient operating table 10. Step 202 may include step 204, wherein the strain sensor plate 48 is positioned between the base frame 22 and each of a plurality of casters 36. Next, in step 206, each caster 36 is connected to a first load-bearing side 62 of the strain sensor plate 48, and the base frame 22 is connected to a second load-bearing side 64 of the strain sensor plate 48. In some embodiments, the first load-bearing side 62 and the second load-bearing side 64 may be offset from each other. In step 208, the intermediate wheels are retracted (e.g., to a stowed position) such that the full weight of the patient operating table 10 rests on the plurality of casters 36. In step 210, method 200 includes determining whether the floor surface is flat (e.g., using one or more level sensors). In step 212 of method 200, if the floor surface exceeds a threshold level (e.g., by a degree that would render the patient's weight inaccurate and / or by a degree that would place the patient table 10 at risk of tilting), a warning is generated. If it is determined that the floor surface exceeds the threshold level, the patient table 10 is repositioned in step 214 before moving to step 216. If it is determined that the floor surface is within the threshold level, or after the patient table is repositioned in step 214, in step 216, the relative displacement between the first load-bearing side 62 and the second load-bearing side 64 is then measured using the strain gauge 96 to form a baseline displacement. In step 218, the patient is placed (e.g., on the center) on the support mattress 12 of the patient table 10. Next, in step 220, a further relative displacement between the first load-bearing side 62 and the second load-bearing side 64 is measured using the strain gauge 96. In step 222, the patient's weight is obtained based on the relative displacement. Then, in step 224, the obtained patient weight is communicated (e.g., via a monitor) within a single time stamp or a time period. Finally, in step 226, the caregiver may reference the obtained patient weight to obtain information related to at least one of dosing regimen, blood loss, and / or other procedures in which patient weight or monitoring changes in patient weight is of benefit to care.

[0039] The patient operating table 10 and its components can be configured to perform the functions and methods described herein. For example, the weight sensing system 30 can be configured to determine the inclination of the patient operating table 10 (e.g., via the level sensor 35). The weight sensing system 30 can be further configured to determine whether the inclination is higher than a first threshold value of the inclination angle or a second level of the inclination angle (e.g., via the level sensor 35 and the parameter data 164). If the inclination of the patient operating table 10 is higher than the first threshold value of the inclination angle, the weight sensing system 30 can be further configured to generate a request to reposition the patient operating table 10. If the inclination of the patient operating table is higher than the second threshold value of the inclination angle, the weight sensing system 30 can be further configured to generate a warning to ensure and stop the movement of the patient operating table 10. The weight sensing system 30 can be further configured to obtain the patient's weight (e.g., via the strain sensor plate 48 and / or the strain gauge 96). The weight sensing system 30 can be further configured to recommend a solution or generate a warning based on the obtained weight or the obtained weight change over a period of time (e.g., via the monitor 32). Accordingly, the present invention fully supports these and other structural and non-structural functions as described herein.

[0040] The disclosure described herein is further summarized in the following paragraphs and is further characterized by any and all combinations of the various aspects described therein.

[0041] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a patient operating table includes a patient support mattress for supporting the weight of a patient. A base frame supports the patient support mattress. A plurality of caster assemblies are connected to the base frame. Each caster assembly includes at least one caster and a strain sensor plate, the strain sensor plate having a first load-bearing side and a second load-bearing side, the first load-bearing side including a flexible spring having an annular shape at least partially located within an outer edge of the strain sensor plate. The first load-bearing side is operably connected to the at least one caster, and the second load-bearing side is operably connected to the base frame support. Therefore, the weight applied from the base frame is transferred from the second load-bearing side to the first load-bearing side.

[0042] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a strain sensor plate includes a strain gauge for measuring a magnitude of displacement.

[0043] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the strain sensor plate defines a recess. A control unit in operable communication with the strain gauge is located in the recess.

[0044] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the strain sensor plate includes a lower surface and an upper surface. The lower surface defines a control housing extending therefrom to at least partially define a recess. The control unit is flush with or recessed from the upper surface.

[0045] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the strain gauge includes a pair of strain gauges positioned symmetrically from a centerline of the strain plate.

[0046] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first load-bearing side and the second load-bearing side are offset from each other in a horizontal direction.

[0047] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the flexible spring is located completely within the outer edge of the strain sensor plate.

[0048] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the flexible spring includes a separate portion defining an annular shape, the separate portion extending from a coextensive portion of the strain sensor plate and defining a curved channel within an outer edge.

[0049] According to another aspect of the present invention, the first load-bearing side and the second load-bearing side are integral.

[0050] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the strain sensor plate is symmetrical along a centerline extending through the first load-bearing side and the second load-bearing side.

[0051] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a patient operating table includes a monitor in communication with the strain sensor board for presenting a unit of weight applied from a first load-bearing side to a second load-bearing side.

[0052] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, one or more level sensors are located on or in a patient operating table.

[0053] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the one or more level sensors include a plurality of accelerometers.

[0054] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a caster assembly for a patient operating table includes at least one caster and a caster housing having a base connection portion. A strain sensor plate has a first load-bearing side connected to the base connection portion and a second load-bearing side for connecting to a provided base frame. The strain sensor plate defines a plate opening. A brake lever is movable in a vertical direction within the plate opening.

[0055] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a strain sensor plate includes a flexible spring that defines a plate opening.

[0056] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a strain sensor plate includes a strain gauge.

[0057] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for obtaining a patient's weight using a patient operating table includes a first step of determining whether the patient operating table is tilted below a threshold value using a level sensor to obtain an accurate measurement. Then, a relative displacement between a first load-bearing side and a second load-bearing side is measured using a strain gauge to form a baseline displacement. Next, the patient is placed on a support mattress of the patient operating table. Then, a further relative displacement between the first load-bearing side and the second load-bearing side is measured using a strain gauge. Then, the patient's weight is obtained based on the further relative displacement.

[0058] According to another related aspect of the present disclosure, a method of obtaining a patient's weight using a patient operating table includes the step of determining a dosage regimen with reference to the obtained patient's weight.

[0059] According to another related aspect of the present disclosure, a method of obtaining a patient's weight using a patient operating table includes the following steps, wherein at least one level sensor is used to determine whether the patient operating table is located on a floor surface having a threshold level so that obtaining the patient's weight is accurate.

[0060] According to another related aspect of the present disclosure, a patient operating table includes a patient support mattress configured to support a patient's weight. A base frame is configured to support the patient support mattress. A plurality of caster assemblies are connected to the base frame. Each caster assembly includes at least one caster, a strain sensor plate defining a recess, and a control unit located in the recess and configured to determine a displacement of the strain sensor to obtain the patient's weight.

[0061] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to generate the obtained patient weight on the monitor.

[0062] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a strain sensor includes a first load-bearing side and a second load-bearing side, wherein the second load-bearing side is configured to be displaced from the first load-bearing side in relation to a patient's weight.

[0063] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first load-bearing side includes a flexible spring operably connected to at least one caster. The flexible spring is configured to facilitate displacement between the first load-bearing side and the second load-bearing side.

[0064] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, at least one level sensor is configured to determine whether the patient table is located on a floor surface having a threshold level such that obtaining the patient's weight is accurate.

[0065] It should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the construction of the present disclosure and other components is not limited to any particular material.Other exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure described herein may be formed from a variety of materials unless otherwise specified herein.

[0066] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its variations) refers generally to the direct or indirect coupling of two (electrical or mechanical) components to one another. Such coupling may be fixed in nature or movable in nature. Such coupling may be achieved by the two (electrical or mechanical) components being integrally formed as a single unitary body with any other intermediate members or by the two components. Unless otherwise stated, such coupling may be permanent in nature or removable or releasable in nature.

[0067] It should also be noted that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the present disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments are only illustrative. Although the present disclosure only details several embodiments of the present innovation, it is easy for those skilled in the art to understand after reading the present disclosure that many modifications (such as changes in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportion, parameter values, installation arrangement, materials, color, direction, etc. of various elements) can be made without substantially deviating from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter. For example, an element shown as integrally formed can be composed of multiple parts, an element shown as multiple parts can also be integrally formed, the operation of the interface can be reversed or can be changed in other ways, the length or width of the structure and / or components or connectors or other elements of the system can be variable, and the nature or number of adjustment positions set between elements can be variable. It should be noted that the elements and / or components of the system can be composed of any variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability in any variety of colors, textures and combinations. Accordingly, all these modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovation. Without departing from the spirit of the present innovation, other replacements, modifications, changes and omissions can be made to the design, operating state and arrangement of the expected and other exemplary embodiments.

[0068] It should be understood that any of the above processes or above process steps can be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes only and should not be interpreted as limiting.

Claims

1. A patient operating table, comprising: a patient support mattress for supporting the patient's weight; a base frame supporting the patient support mattress; as well as A plurality of caster assemblies connected to the base frame, each caster assembly comprising: at least one caster; as well as A strain sensor plate having a first load-bearing side and a second load-bearing side, wherein the first load-bearing side includes a flexible spring having an annular shape at least partially located within an outer edge of the strain sensor plate, wherein the first load-bearing side is operably coupled to the at least one caster, and the second load-bearing side is operably coupled to the base frame support, wherein weight applied from the base frame is transferred from the second load-bearing side to the first load-bearing side.

2. The patient operating table of claim 1, wherein the strain sensor plate comprises a strain gauge for measuring the magnitude of displacement.

3. The patient operating table of claim 2, wherein the strain sensor plate defines a recess and a control unit in operable communication with the strain gauge is located in the recess.

4. A patient operating table according to claim 3, wherein the strain sensor plate includes a lower surface and an upper surface, the lower surface defining a control housing extending therefrom to at least partially define the recess, wherein the control unit is flush with or recessed from the upper surface.

5. A patient operating table according to any one of claims 2 or 3, wherein the strain gauge comprises a pair of strain gauges positioned symmetrically from a centerline of the strain plate.

6. A patient operating table according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first load-bearing side and the second load-bearing side are offset from each other in a horizontal direction.

7. A patient operating table according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible spring is located completely within the outer edge of the strain sensor plate.

8. A patient operating table according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible spring comprises a separate portion defining the annular shape, the separate portion extending from a coextensive portion of the strain sensor plate and defining a curved channel within the outer edge.

9. A patient operating table according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first load-bearing side and the second load-bearing side are integral.

10. A patient operating table according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the strain sensor plate is symmetrical about a centre line extending through the first load-bearing side and the second load-bearing side.

11. A patient operating table according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: A monitor in communication with the strain sensor board is configured to present a unit of weight applied from the first load-bearing side to the second load-bearing side.

12. A patient operating table according to any preceding claim, further comprising one or more level sensors.

13. A patient operating table according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more level sensors comprise a plurality of accelerometers.

14. A caster assembly for a patient operating table, comprising: at least one caster; A caster housing including a base connection portion; a strain sensor plate having a first load-bearing side connected to the base connection portion and a second load-bearing side for connecting to a provided base frame, wherein the strain sensor plate defines a plate opening; as well as A brake rod is movable in a vertical direction within the plate opening.

15. The caster assembly of claim 14, wherein the strain sensor plate includes a flexible spring, the flexible spring defining the plate opening.

16. The caster assembly of claim 15, wherein the strain sensor plate includes an outer edge, the flexible spring being located within the outer edge.

17. A castor assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the strain sensor plate comprises a strain gauge.

18. A method for obtaining a patient's weight using a patient operating table, the method comprising the steps of: using a level sensor to determine whether the patient table is tilted below a threshold to obtain an accurate measurement; measuring a relative displacement between the first load-bearing side and the second load-bearing side using a strain gauge to form a baseline displacement; placing a patient on a support mattress of said patient operating table; measuring a further relative displacement between the first load-bearing side and the second load-bearing side with the strain gauge; and The patient's weight is obtained based on the further relative displacement.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising determining a dosage regimen with reference to the obtained patient's weight.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, further comprising: At least one level sensor is used to determine whether the patient table is located on a floor surface having a threshold level such that obtaining the patient's weight is accurate.

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