Control device for a two-column spinal operating table

Abstract

This invention relates to a control device for a two-column spinal operating table. A patient support device includes a support base and a lifting system, the lifting system including a first lifting column connected to the support base and a second lifting column spaced apart from and connected to the support base. The lifting system is configured to support a patient support member above a floor beneath the patient support device and to rotate the patient support member about an axis extending through the first and second lifting columns.

Description

[0001] This Chinese patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 758,668, filed February 14, 2025, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to patient support devices, such as those for supporting a patient in different positions. More specifically, it relates to operating tables for positioning and repositioning a patient during spinal surgery, for example, to provide adjustability in the coronal plane. However, the invention is also applicable to other types of patient support devices, such as hospital beds, home care beds, X-ray tables, treatment supports, wheelchairs, etc. Background Technology

[0003] Conventional patient support devices can be configured to rotate, tilt, and / or lift the frame or patient support relative to the base. This movement allows surgeons or other healthcare providers easier access to the desired area of ​​the patient positioned on the patient support. Movement of the patient support device can be controlled via a remote control or other user interface, and the position and status of the patient support device can be indicated by status lights on the remote control or a panel on the patient support device. It is still desirable to provide additional interfaces for controlling the operation of the patient support equipment and to provide indicators to allow users to quickly understand the position and status of the patient support device by viewing indicators on or near the patient support device controls.

[0004] In addition, patient support devices may include casters for moving the patient support device within a hospital facility. Each caster includes a wheel and a braking element that can move between a braking position and a released braking position to prevent or allow the wheel to roll and facilitate movement of the patient support device. Some patient support devices include controls and actuation features for electronically braking and releasing the braking element of the casters. However, if the patient support device is without power, it is desirable to provide a manual option to operate the braking element. Therefore, a braking system that allows for electric operation when power is available while also allowing for the option to manually release the braking element (e.g., if power is unavailable) remains necessary. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention includes one or more and / or the features described in the appended claims, which may constitute patentable subject matter individually or in any combination.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, a patient support device includes a support base; a first lifting column and a second lifting column supported by the support base; and a patient support member. The second lifting column is spaced apart from the first lifting column. The patient support member extends between and is connected to the first and second lifting columns. The patient support member is rotatable about an axis extending between the first and second lifting columns.

[0007] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the heights of the first and second lifting columns are adjustable to position the axis horizontally above the floor beneath the support base, with a vertical distance between them. In some embodiments, the vertical distance may be equal to or less than 900 mm.

[0008] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the first lifting column may include at least three telescopic sections and an actuator configured to adjust the height of the first lifting column. The second lifting column may include at least three telescopic sections and an actuator configured to adjust the height of the second lifting column.

[0009] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the height of the first lifting column and the height of the second lifting column can be adjusted relative to the support base so that the axis is tilted to be non-parallel to the floor.

[0010] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the heights of the first and second lifting columns may be adjustable to position the axis horizontally on the floor, with a vertical distance of 800 mm or less between them. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the heights of the first and second lifting columns may be adjustable to position the axis horizontally above the floor below the base, with a vertical distance of 1200 mm or more between them.

[0011] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the heights of the first and second lifting columns may be adjustable such that the ratio between the highest and lowest vertical distances may be greater than or equal to 1.5:1. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the ratio may be greater than or equal to 1.6:1.

[0012] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the support base may have a top surface vertically spaced from the floor by a height equal to or less than 250 mm. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the heights of the first and second lifting columns may be adjustable relative to the base, such that the ratio between the height of the horizontally positioned axis from the floor and the height of the base from the floor may vary between at least 3.5:1 and 5:1.

[0013] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the patient support device may further include casters coupled to a base and an electric actuator. The casters may be configured to move the patient support device relative to the floor, and the electric actuator may be coupled to the base and configured to move the casters between a released braking position and a braking position.

[0014] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the patient support device may include a light system. This light system may be configured to display light indicating that the casters are in a braked position or a released position.

[0015] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the light system may be configured to illuminate the floor. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the light may be a first color in response to the casters being in a released position, and the light may be a second color different from the first color in response to the casters being in a braked position.

[0016] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the patient support device may further include an accessory rail coupled to the first column. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the accessory rail may include a first track body extending laterally away from the first lifting column. The first track body may be configured to define a first channel extending rearwardly into the first track body and a second channel extending forwardly into the first track body.

[0017] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the accessory rail may include a second rail body extending forward and rearward from an end of the first rail body. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the first rail body may be formed to include an elongated groove extending through the first rail body and leading to a first channel and a second channel.

[0018] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the patient support device may further include an extension. The extension may extend between and interconnect a first base and a second base included in the support base, for moving the support base between an unfolded position and a folded position, wherein in the unfolded position the first base and the second base are spaced apart by a first distance, and in the folded position the first base and the second base are spaced apart by a second distance less than the first distance.

[0019] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the extension may include a first tube coupled to a first base, a second tube coupled to a second base and disposed within the first tube to allow telescopic movement of the first and second tubes, and a locking unit. The locking unit may be configured to move between a locking arrangement and an unlocking arrangement, in which relative movement between the first and second tubes is prevented, and in the unlocking arrangement, relative movement between the first and second tubes is allowed to allow movement of the support base between a folded position and an unfolded position.

[0020] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the first tube may include a tube body and a strip coupled to the tube body. A locking unit may be configured to selectively move the strip relative to the tube body of the first tube to apply a clamping force to the second tube and prevent relative movement between the first and second tubes. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the tube body and the strip of the first tube may be integrally formed.

[0021] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the locking unit may include a first mounting plate coupled to the tube body, a second mounting plate coupled to the free end of the strip, and a pedal assembly. The pedal assembly may be configured to selectively move the second mounting plate relative to the first mounting plate to apply a clamping force to the second tube.

[0022] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the pedal assembly may include a pin, a cam body, and a foot pedal. The pin may be coupled to a second mounting plate. The cam body may be pivotally coupled to the pin and engage a first mounting plate. The foot pedal may be coupled to the cam body and configured to rotate the cam body relative to the first mounting plate such that the pin moves a second plate toward and away from the first mounting plate.

[0023] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the patient support device may further include a rotation indicator coupled to the first lifting column. The rotation indicator may be configured to display information indicating the angle of rotation of the patient support member about an axis. The rotation indicator may include a gauge rail and a pointer that moves relative to the gauge rail in response to rotation of the patient support member about the axis.

[0024] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the gauge guide may be formed to define a pointer display opening and a guide groove, the pointer display opening exposing the pointer to the user. The pointer may include: a pointer body extending into the guide groove to slide along the guide groove; and a marker coupled to the pointer body and arranged such that at least a portion of the marker is visible to the user through the pointer display opening.

[0025] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the rotation indicator may include a slide bar configured to rotate about an axis. The slide bar may engage with a pointer to move the pointer in a guide slot in response to rotation of the patient support member about the axis, thereby indicating to the user the angle of rotation of the patient support device about the axis.

[0026] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, a sliding rod extends cantileveredly from a first end connected to a first lifting column. The sliding rod may be configured to rotate in response to rotation of the patient support member to a second end extending into the pointer body, such that the pointer body can slide freely along the sliding rod as the sliding rod causes the pointer body to move in the gauge slot.

[0027] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, a rotary indicator may be attached to the top surface of the first lifting column. When viewed from the top surface of the first lifting column looking downwards, the user can see the gauge guide and markings.

[0028] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the patient support device may include a controller, which includes a processor and a memory device. The memory device may contain instructions executable by the processor to move a first lifting column and a second lifting column from a first arrangement to a second arrangement, wherein in the first arrangement, a first axis of the first lifting column coupled to the patient support is at a first height, and a second axis of the second lifting column coupled to the patient support is at a second height different from the first height, and in the second arrangement, the first axis is at a third height and the second axis is at a third height.

[0029] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, when executed by a processor, instructions may cause a first lifting column to move a first shaft from a first height to a third height, and simultaneously cause a second lifting column to move a second shaft from a second height to a third height.

[0030] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the third height is located between the first height and the second height. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the third height is approximately midway between the first height and the second height.

[0031] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, when executed by a processor, instructions may also cause the first and second lifting columns to rotate the patient support member about an axis relative to the lifting system to a predetermined orientation. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the first aspect, the predetermined orientation may be a zero-degree position in which the patient support member is configured such that the patient supported thereon is arranged in an upward or downward orientation.

[0032] According to a second aspect of the invention, a patient support device includes a support base, a lifting system, and an extension. The support base includes a first base and a second base spaced apart from the first base. The lifting system includes a first lifting column connected to the first base and a second lifting column connected to the second base. The first and second lifting columns are configured to rise and fall independently relative to the support base. The extension extends between and interconnects the first and second bases. The extension is configured to move the support base between an unfolded position and a folded position, wherein in the unfolded position the first base and the second base are spaced apart by a first distance, and in the folded position the first base and the second base are spaced apart by a second distance less than the first distance.

[0033] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the second aspect, the extension includes a first tube coupled to a first base, a second tube coupled to a second base and disposed within the first tube to allow telescopic movement of the first and second tubes, and a locking unit. The locking unit may be configured to move between a locking arrangement and an unlocking arrangement, in which relative movement between the first and second tubes is prevented, and in the unlocking arrangement, relative movement between the first and second tubes is allowed to move the support base between a folded position and an unfolded position.

[0034] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the second aspect, the first tube may include a tube body and a strip coupled to the tube body. A locking unit may be configured to selectively move the strip relative to the tube body of the first tube to apply a clamping force to the second tube and prevent relative movement between the first and second tubes. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the second aspect, the tube body and the strip of the first tube are integrally formed.

[0035] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the second aspect, the locking unit may include a first mounting plate coupled to the tube body, a second mounting plate coupled to the free end of the strip, and a pedal assembly. The pedal assembly may be configured to selectively move the second mounting plate relative to the first mounting plate to apply a clamping force to the second tube.

[0036] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the second aspect, the pedal assembly may include a pin coupled to a second mounting plate, a cam body pivotally coupled to the pin and engaging a first mounting plate, and a foot pedal coupled to the cam body. The foot pedal may be configured to rotate the cam body relative to the first mounting plate, such that the pin moves the second plate toward and away from the first mounting plate.

[0037] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the second aspect, the patient support device may include a patient support member. The patient support member may extend between and be coupled to a first lifting column and a second lifting column. The patient support member may rotate about an axis extending between the first and second lifting columns.

[0038] According to a third aspect of the invention, a patient support device includes a support base, a lifting system, and an accessory guide rail. The support base includes a first base and a second base spaced apart from the first base. The lifting system includes a first lifting column coupled to the first base and a second lifting column coupled to the second base. The first and second lifting columns are configured to rise and fall independently relative to the support base. The accessory guide rail is coupled to the first lifting column and configured to support accessory components removably coupled to the accessory guide rail.

[0039] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the third aspect, the accessory rail may include a first rail body extending laterally away from the first lifting column. The first rail body may be configured to define a first channel extending rearwardly into the first rail body and a second channel extending forward into the first rail body.

[0040] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the third aspect, the accessory rail may include a second rail body. The second rail body may extend forward and backward from an end of the first rail body.

[0041] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the third aspect, the first track body may be formed to include an elongated groove. The elongated groove may extend through the first track body and lead to a first channel and a second channel.

[0042] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the third aspect, the first lifting column may include a first telescopic section and a second telescopic section. The first telescopic section may be connected to a first base. An accessory rail may be connected to one side of the second telescopic section.

[0043] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the third aspect, the patient support device may include a patient support member extending between and connected to a first lifting column and a second lifting column. The patient support member is rotatable about an axis extending between the first and second lifting columns.

[0044] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a patient support device includes a support base, a lifting system, and a caster brake status indication system. The support base includes a first base and a second base spaced apart from the first base. The first base includes casters having wheels and braking elements, and an electric actuator operatively connected to the braking elements of the casters to move the braking elements between a braking position and a released braking position, preventing rotation of the wheels in the braking position and allowing rotation of the wheels in the released braking position. The lifting system includes a first lifting column coupled to the first base and a second lifting column coupled to the second base. The first and second lifting columns are configured to rise and fall independently relative to the support base. The caster brake status indication system illuminates light indicating whether the braking element is in the released braking position or the braking position.

[0045] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the fourth aspect, the caster brake status indication system can illuminate the floor beneath the patient support device. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the fourth aspect, the light can be a first color in response to the braking system being in the released position. In response to the braking system being in the braking position, the light can be a second color different from the first color.

[0046] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a patient support device includes a support base, a lifting system, a patient support member, and a rotation indicator. The lifting system includes a first lifting column coupled to the support base and a second lifting column spaced apart from and coupled to the support base. The first and second lifting columns are configured to rise and fall independently relative to the support base. The patient support member extends between and is coupled to the first and second lifting columns to move vertically therewith. The patient support member rotates about an axis extending between the first and second lifting columns. The rotation indicator is coupled to the first lifting column and configured to display information indicating the angle of rotation of the patient support member about the axis. The rotation indicator includes a gauge rail and a pointer that moves relative to the gauge rail in response to rotation of the patient support member about the axis.

[0047] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the fifth aspect, the gauge rail may be formed to define a pointer display opening and a guide groove, the pointer display opening exposing the pointer to the user. The pointer may include: a pointer body extending into the guide groove to slide along the guide groove; and a marker coupled to the pointer body and arranged such that at least a portion of the marker is visible to the user through the pointer display opening.

[0048] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the fifth aspect, the rotation indicator may include a sliding rod configured to rotate about an axis. The sliding rod may engage with a pointer to move the pointer in a guide slot in response to rotation of the patient support member about the axis, thereby indicating to the user the angle of rotation of the patient support device about the axis.

[0049] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the fifth aspect, the sliding rod may extend cantilevered from a first end to a second end. The first end may be connected to a first lifting column and configured to rotate in response to rotation of the patient support member. The second end may extend into the pointer body such that the pointer body can slide freely along the sliding rod as the sliding rod causes the pointer body to move in the gauge slot.

[0050] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the fifth aspect, a rotary indicator may be attached to the top surface of the first lifting column. When viewed from the top surface of the first lifting column looking downwards, the user can see the gauge guide and markings.

[0051] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, a patient support device includes a support base, a lifting system, a patient support member, and a controller. The support base includes a first base and a second base spaced apart from the first base. The lifting system includes a first lifting column coupled to the first base and a second lifting column coupled to the second base. The first and second lifting columns are configured to rise and fall independently relative to the support base. The patient support member extends between and is coupled to a first axis of the first lifting column and a second axis of the second lifting column to move vertically therewith. The patient support member rotates about an axis extending through the first and second axes of the first and second lifting columns. The controller includes a processor and a storage device. The storage device includes instructions executed by the processor to move the first and second lifting columns from a first arrangement to a second arrangement, wherein in the first arrangement the first axis is at a first height and the second axis is at a second height different from the first height, and in the second arrangement the first axis is at a third height and the second axis is at a third height.

[0052] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the sixth aspect, the third height may be between the first height and the second height. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the sixth aspect, the third height may be approximately midway between the first height and the second height.

[0053] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the sixth aspect, when executed by a processor, instructions may cause the first and second lifting columns to rotate the patient support member about an axis relative to the lifting system to a predetermined direction. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the sixth aspect, the predetermined direction may be a zero-degree position in which the patient support member is configured such that the patient supported thereon is arranged in an upward or downward orientation.

[0054] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the sixth aspect, when executed by a processor, instructions may cause a first lifting column to move a first shaft from a first height to a third height, and simultaneously cause a second lifting column to move a second shaft from a second height to a third height.

[0055] According to a seventh aspect of the invention, a method of operating a patient support device includes moving a first lifting column relative to a support base connected to the first lifting column to a first height; moving a second lifting column relative to a support base connected to the second lifting column to a second height different from the first height, so as to tilt a patient support member connected to the first and second lifting columns relative to the floor; and simultaneously moving each of the first and second lifting columns to a third height different from the first and second heights, so as to level the patient support relative to the floor.

[0056] In some embodiments of the method of the seventh aspect, the method includes rotating the patient support member about an axis extending through the first and second lifting columns from a first angle to a second angle different from the first angle. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the seventh aspect, the method may include rotating the patient support member from the second angle to a third angle corresponding to a zero-degree position, in which the patient support member is configured such that the patient supported thereon is arranged in an upward or downward orientation.

[0057] In some embodiments of the method of the seventh aspect, rotating the patient support from the second angle to the third angle can be performed simultaneously with moving each of the first and second lifting columns to the third height.

[0058] According to an eighth aspect of the invention, a patient support device includes a caster, a brake actuator, and a linkage. The caster includes a support rod, a wheel coupled to the support rod for rotation about a wheel axis relative to the support rod, and a braking element. The braking element is movable from a released braking position, allowing rotation of the wheel relative to the support rod, to a braking position, preventing rotation of the wheel relative to the support rod. The brake actuator includes a mounting base and a linear actuator coupled to the mounting base and movable relative to the mounting base between a retracted position and an extended position. The linkage is configured to transmit motion of the linear actuator to the braking element, causing the braking element to move between a released braking position and a braking position. The linkage includes a shaft assembly, a clutch assembly, and a manual release assembly. The shaft assembly is coupled to the braking element. The clutch assembly is configured to rotate relative to the mounting base about a clutch axis via the linear actuator to move the braking element between a released braking position and a braking position via the shaft assembly. The manual release assembly is connected to the clutch assembly and the shaft assembly and is configured to operably disengage the linear actuator from the shaft assembly and bias the shaft assembly to move the braking element to the released position in response to manual activation of the manual release by the user.

[0059] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the clutch assembly is movable between an engaged arrangement and a disengaged arrangement. In the engaged arrangement, the clutch can be rotated by a linear actuator to transmit motion from the linear actuator through the shaft assembly to a braking element, thereby moving the braking element between a released braking position and a braking position. In the disengaged arrangement, the shaft assembly is operatively disengaged from the linear actuator.

[0060] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the clutch assembly may include a clutch shaft, a first clutch plate, and a second clutch plate. The clutch shaft is rotatable about a clutch axis and is coupled to a shaft assembly to move therewith. The first clutch plate may be coupled to a linear actuator and is arranged to selectively rotate about the clutch axis relative to the clutch shaft. The second clutch plate may be coupled to the clutch shaft to rotate therewith and is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the second clutch plate is rotatably engaged with the first clutch plate, such that the clutch assembly transmits motion from the linear actuator through the first clutch plate, the second clutch plate, and the clutch shaft to the shaft assembly. In the disengaged position, the second clutch plate is rotatably disengaged from the first clutch plate, such that the second clutch plate and the shaft assembly are free to move relative to the first clutch plate and the linear actuator.

[0061] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the eighth aspect, the second clutch disc may be axially movable relative to the clutch shaft along the clutch axis to move between an engaged position and a disengaged position.

[0062] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, one of the first and second clutch plates may be formed to define a recess therein. The other of the first and second clutch plates may be formed to include a protrusion extending into the recess to rotatably engage the first and second clutch plates in response to the second clutch plate being in an engaged position, and the protrusion being spaced apart from the recess to rotatably disengage the second clutch plate from the first clutch plate in response to the second clutch plate being in a disengaged position.

[0063] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the clutch may further include a key. The key interlocks the second clutch disc with the clutch shaft while allowing the second clutch disc to slide axially relative to the clutch shaft.

[0064] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the manual release assembly may include a plunger movable relative to the mounting base, a clutch release fork coupled to the clutch assembly, and a clutch release link. The clutch release link may be coupled to the plunger and the clutch release fork, and may be configured to, in response to a user pulling the plunger, cause the clutch release fork to move the clutch assembly and operatively disengage the linear actuator from the shaft assembly.

[0065] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, a clutch release fork may be engaged with a second clutch plate. The clutch release fork may be configured to selectively move the second clutch plate axially away from the first clutch plate in response to a user pulling a plunger, rotatably disengaging the first clutch plate from the second clutch plate.

[0066] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the eighth aspect, the clutch release fork may be biased to cause the second clutch plate to engage with the first clutch plate.

[0067] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the clutch release linkage may include a first linkage and a second linkage. The first linkage may be pivotally connected to a plunger and rotatable about an axis of the first linkage. The second linkage may be pivotally connected to the first linkage and the clutch release fork and rotatable about an axis of the second linkage, such that pulling the plunger causes the first linkage to rotate the second linkage about an axis of the second linkage, and moves the clutch release fork and the second clutch plate away from the first clutch plate.

[0068] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the first rod may be formed to include an elongated slot, and the second rod may include a rod body and a pin extending through the rod body and the elongated slot to engage the second rod with the first rod. The elongated slot may allow limited movement of the first rod relative to the second rod to allow the plunger to return to its initial position after being pulled when the second clutch disc disengages from the first clutch disc.

[0069] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the manual release assembly may include a brake release lever assembly coupled to the shaft assembly and the base of the patient support device. The brake release lever assembly may be configured to cause the shaft assembly to move the braking element toward an unbraked position.

[0070] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the brake release lever assembly may include a first brake release lever and a first biasing member. The first brake release lever may be pivotally coupled to a base and a shaft assembly and is configured to rotate about an axis of the first brake release lever. The first biasing member may be coupled to the first brake release lever and the base to bias the first brake release lever such that the first brake release lever causes the shaft assembly to move the braking element toward a release position.

[0071] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the brake release lever assembly may include a second brake release lever and a second biasing member. The second brake release lever may be pivotally coupled to a base to rotate about a second brake release lever axis and coupled to a first brake release lever. The second biasing member may be coupled to the base and the second brake release lever to cause the second brake release lever to inhibit movement of the first brake release lever.

[0072] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the first brake release lever may include a first curved elongated slot, and the second brake release lever may include a second curved elongated slot. The brake release lever assembly may include a first pin extending through the first curved elongated slot and the second brake release lever, and a second pin extending through the second curved elongated slot and into the base.

[0073] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the patient support device includes a second caster having a second wheel and a second braking element movable between a released braking position and a braking position. The shaft assembly may include a first caster brake link coupled to the first braking element, a second caster brake link coupled to the second braking element and operatively coupled to a linear actuator, and a cam coupled to one of the first and second caster brake links. The first caster brake link may be selectively movable relative to the second caster brake link. The cam may be configured to engage with the other of the first and second caster brake links to selectively cause the first caster brake link away from the second caster brake link.

[0074] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the eighth aspect, the patient support device may include a caster brake status indication system. The caster brake status indication system may illuminate light indicating whether the braking element is in the released or braking position.

[0075] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the caster brake status indication system can illuminate light onto the floor beneath the patient support device. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the light can be a first color in response to the braking system being in the released position, and the light can be a second color different from the first color in response to the braking system being in the braking position.

[0076] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eighth aspect, the brake actuator may include a travel stop. The travel stop may be fixed relative to the mounting base, and the travel stop is configured to limit the maximum extension of the linear actuator.

[0077] According to a ninth aspect of the invention, a method of operating a braking system on a patient support device includes: extending a linear actuator to rotate a clutch about an axis and causing a shaft assembly to move a caster brake of a caster to a braking position and prevent rotation of the caster wheel; disengaging a first clutch disc and a second clutch disc of the clutch assembly to operably disengage the shaft assembly from the linear actuator; and automatically moving the shaft assembly in response to disengaging the first clutch disc and the second clutch disc to release the braking of the caster brake.

[0078] In some embodiments of the method of the ninth aspect, the method may include retracting a linear actuator to rotate a first clutch plate. The method may include, after an automatic moving shaft assembly, moving a second clutch plate to engage with the first clutch plate to connect the first and second clutch plates.

[0079] In some embodiments of the method of the ninth aspect, disengaging the first clutch disc from the second clutch disc may include moving a plunger operatively coupled to the second clutch disc from a first position to a second position. In some embodiments of the method of the ninth aspect, the method may include moving the plunger from the second position toward the first position without engaging the second clutch disc with the first clutch disc before retracting the linear actuator.

[0080] In some embodiments of the method of the ninth aspect, the method may include engaging a linear actuator with a travel stop. The travel stop prevents the linear actuator from extending to a fully extended position.

[0081] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, a method for synchronizing the caster brakes of a patient support device includes moving a first caster brake link to a first predetermined position to unlock the first caster brake; moving a second caster brake link relative to the first caster brake link to a second predetermined position to unlock the second caster brake; while the first caster brake and the second caster brake remain unlocked, applying a first force to the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link to cause the first caster brake link to move away from the second caster brake link; and while applying the first force to the first caster brake link, fixing the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link together so that they move together with the second caster brake link.

[0082] In some embodiments of the method of the tenth aspect, the second caster brake link may include a shaft and a cam coupled to the shaft. Applying a first force to the first and second caster brake links may include engaging the first caster link with the cam such that the cam causes the first caster brake link to move away from the shaft.

[0083] In some embodiments of the method of the tenth aspect, the cam may include a washer and a fastener. The washer may have an eccentric profile that engages with the first caster brake linkage. The fastener may connect the washer to the shaft.

[0084] In some embodiments of the method of the tenth aspect, one of the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link may be formed as defining an elongated slot. Securing the first caster brake link to the second caster brake link may include clamping the first caster brake link to the second caster brake link with a fastener that extends through the elongated slot and the other of the first and second caster brake links.

[0085] In some embodiments of the method of the tenth aspect, the method may include temporarily restricting the movement of the first caster brake link away from the first predetermined position after the first caster brake link has been moved to the first predetermined position and before a first force is applied to the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link. In some embodiments of the method of the tenth aspect, the method may include releasing the restriction on the movement of the first caster brake link away from the first predetermined position after the first caster brake link is connected to the second caster brake link.

[0086] In some embodiments of the method of the tenth aspect, the first caster brake link may include a first shaft and a first pivot connector, the first pivot connector being pivotally connected to the first shaft and connected to a first caster brake. The second caster brake link may include a second shaft and a second pivot connector, the second pivot connector being pivotally connected to the second shaft and connected to a second caster brake.

[0087] In some embodiments of the method of the tenth aspect, the method may include pivotally coupling an actuator to an actuator mount and operably coupling the actuator to a first caster brake link. In some embodiments of the method of the tenth aspect, the method may include applying a second force to the actuator mount before applying a first force to the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link, to cause the actuator mount to move away from one of the first caster brake and the second caster brake and toward the other of the first caster brake and the second caster brake.

[0088] In some embodiments of the method of the tenth aspect, the method may include securing the actuator mount to the base of the patient support device. The securing of the actuator mount to the base may be performed before applying a first force to the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link.

[0089] According to an eleventh aspect of the invention, a patient support device includes a first caster and a second caster, a brake actuator, and a linkage. The first caster includes a first wheel and a first braking element, the first wheel being configured to rotate about a first wheel axis, and the first braking element being movable from a released braking position allowing rotation of the first wheel about the first wheel axis to a braking position preventing rotation of the first wheel relative to the first wheel axis. The second caster includes a second wheel and a second braking element, the second wheel being configured to rotate about a second wheel axis, and the second braking element being movable from a released braking position allowing rotation of the second wheel about the second wheel axis to a braking position preventing rotation of the second wheel relative to the second wheel axis. The brake actuator includes a mounting base and a linear actuator coupled to the mounting base. The linear actuator is movable relative to the mounting base between a retracted position and an extended position. The linkage is configured to transmit motion of the linear actuator to the first and second braking elements, causing the first and second braking elements to move between a released braking position and a braking position.

[0090] The linkage includes a shaft assembly having a first caster brake link coupled to a first braking element, a second caster brake link coupled to a second braking element and operably coupled to a linear actuator, and a cam coupled to one of the first and second caster brake links. The first caster brake link is selectively movable relative to the second caster brake link. The cam is configured to engage with the other of the first and second caster brake links to selectively cause the first caster brake link away from the second caster brake link.

[0091] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the eleventh aspect, the cam may include a washer and a fastener. The washer may have an eccentric profile that engages with another of the first and second caster brake links. The fastener may connect the washer to one of the first and second caster brake links.

[0092] In some embodiments of the patient support device in the eleventh aspect, one of the first and second caster wheel brake links may be formed as defining an elongated slot. The shaft assembly may include a fastener extending through the elongated slot and into the other of the first and second caster wheel brake links to connect the first and second caster wheel brake links.

[0093] In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eleventh aspect, the first caster brake link may include a first axle and a first fork pivotally connected to a first braking element. The second caster brake link may include a second axle and a second fork pivotally connected to a second braking element. In some embodiments of the patient support device of the eleventh aspect, the first and second caster brake links may be biased to move the braking element toward a released position.

[0094] In some embodiments of the patient support device according to the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh aspects, the patient support device further includes a remote control detachably coupled to one of the first and second pillars, and a panel fixed to one of the first and second lifting pillars. Each of the remote control and the panel has multiple buttons thereon. The heights of the first and second lifting pillars are adjustable to position an axis horizontally above the floor below the support base, with a vertical distance between them. The buttons on the remote control and the panel are each configured to adjust the height of the first and second lifting pillars, and the rotation of the patient support member about this axis.

[0095] In some embodiments of the method of the ninth aspect, the method further includes adjusting the position of one of the first lifting column, the second lifting column, and the patient support in response to receiving a first input from a remote operator, and adjusting the position of one of the first lifting column, the second lifting column, and the patient support in response to receiving a second input from a panel fixed to one of the first and second columns.

[0096] According to a twelfth aspect of the invention, a patient support device includes a support base, a first lifting column and a second lifting column spaced apart from the first lifting column, a patient support member, and a user interface. The first and second lifting columns are supported by the support base. The patient support member extends between and is connected to the first and second lifting columns. The patient support member is rotatable about an axis extending between the first and second lifting columns. The user interface includes a remote control and a panel, the remote control including a plurality of buttons, and the panel being fixed to one of the first and second columns and including a plurality of buttons. The plurality of buttons on the remote control and the plurality of buttons on the panel are each configured to adjust one or more of the height of the first column, the height of the second column, and the rotation of the patient support member about the axis.

[0097] Additional features, alone or in combination with any other one or more features (such as those listed above and / or those listed in the claims), may comprise patentable subject matter and will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments, which exemplify the best mode for implementing the currently perceived embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0098] For a detailed description, please refer in particular to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0099] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of a patient support device, which includes a base frame and a top of a patient support member supported on the base frame to rotate about an axis.

[0100] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a patient support device shows that the columns in the patient support device can be raised and lowered individually to raise, lower, and tilt the top of the patient support.

[0101] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A A schematic diagram of the top of the patient support component of the patient support device, showing that the top of the patient support component can rotate about an axis between multiple positions;

[0102] Figure 2 yes Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a patient support device;

[0103] Figure 3 Is Figure 1A An elevation view of a remote control operator configured to control the operation of a patient support device, which is included in the patient support device.

[0104] Figure 4 It is located in Figure 1A A top view of the patient support device's base frame on the columns and a panel constructed to provide an additional interface for controlling the operation of the patient support device.

[0105] Figure 5 This is a sectional view of one of the columns in the basic frame of the patient support device, used to show the rotation system and the rotation indicator used to provide information to the user of the patient support device indicating the rotation angle of the top of the support.

[0106] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A perspective view of a rotating indicator, which includes a marker configured to slide in a guide rail and is visible through a window in a panel on top of a column of a patient support device;

[0107] Figure 7 It is a perspective view of one of the columns in the patient support device. The column has a panel on its top surface, an accessory rail is connected to the side of the column, and a remote control is supported on the accessory rail.

[0108] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Enlarged view of the side of the column and the accessory guide rail;

[0109] Figure 9A yes Figure 8 A perspective view of an accessory guide rail, the accessory guide rail having a first track body in which an elongated groove is formed and a second track body extending perpendicularly away from the end of the first track body;

[0110] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A The front view of the accessory guide rail;

[0111] Figure 9C yes Figure 9A Top view of the accessory guide rail;

[0112] Figure 9D yes Figure 9A Side view of the accessory guide rail;

[0113] Figure 9E yes Figure 9A Rear view of the accessory guide rail;

[0114] Figure 10 yes Figure 1A A front view of a patient support device, the basic frame of which includes columns and a support base beneath the columns, and has a light system for displaying light indicating the braking status of the casters of the support base;

[0115] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of a light emitter included in the light system, shown by removing the cover of the support base; the light emitter is configured to guide light through a window connected to the lower side of the support base and onto the floor below the patient support device.

[0116] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the supporting base, used to show the light emitter that guides light through the window and onto the floor to indicate the braking status of the casters;

[0117] Figure 13 It is a bottom-view perspective view of a window connected to a cover on a supporting base and configured to allow light from a light emitter to pass through it.

[0118] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Another 3D view of the window;

[0119] Figure 15 It is a perspective view of a locking unit and an extension with a telescopic tube that allows the base of the supporting base to move relative to each other between a folded position and an unfolded position. The locking unit is configured to selectively prevent relative movement of the tubes to maintain the folded or unfolded position.

[0120] Figure 16It is a side view of one of the tubes in the extension, the tube having a tube body and a strip cut from the tube body and connected to a locking unit to selectively apply compressive force to another tube in the extension;

[0121] Figure 17 This is a sectional view of the locking unit, showing the first mounting plate, second mounting plate, pin, and cam body of the locking unit;

[0122] Figure 18 It is a perspective sectional view of the locking unit and the extension, used to show the strip connection between the locking unit and the tube to control the movement of the strip, thereby selectively tightening and loosening the strip in response to the compressive force applied to the inner tube of the extension;

[0123] Figure 19 This is a side view of a portion of the patient support device at its lowest position;

[0124] Figure 20 It is similar to Figure 19 A side view of a portion of the patient support device, with the patient support device at its highest position;

[0125] Figure 21 This is an elevation view of the support base of the patient support device, with the cover removed to show the braking system in the patient support device;

[0126] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 A top view of the support base, with the cover removed to reveal the braking system of the patient support device;

[0127] Figure 23A This is a side view of a braking system connected to the base of a patient support device, with the braking system in the locked position, and including a brake actuator, a clutch assembly, and a manual release assembly.

[0128] Figure 23B This is an enlarged view of a portion of the manual release assembly, showing the braking system moving midway between the braking and release positions, indicating that the biasing member in the manual release assembly inhibits movement and reduces hard braking of the braking system.

[0129] Figure 24 yes Figure 23A Side view of the braking system in the unlocked position;

[0130] Figure 25 This is an exploded perspective view of a clutch assembly included in the braking system of a patient support device, the clutch assembly including, among other things, a clutch shaft, a first clutch disc, and a second clutch disc configured to selectively disengage the first clutch disc.

[0131] Figure 25AThis is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a clutch assembly constructed for use in a braking system of a patient support device;

[0132] Figure 26 yes Figure 25 Exploded elevation view of the clutch assembly;

[0133] Figure 26A yes Figure 25A Exploded elevation view of the clutch assembly;

[0134] Figure 27 It is a perspective view of a clutch assembly included in a braking system within a patient support device, arranged in conjunction with a linear brake, wherein a linear actuator extends to move the clutch assembly to a shaft assembly and brake a caster brake on a support base of the patient support device.

[0135] Figure 28 It is arranged in conjunction with a linear brake. Figure 27 A perspective view of the clutch assembly of the central braking system, wherein the linear actuator retracts to move the clutch assembly shaft assembly and release the brake on the caster brake on the support base of the patient support device;

[0136] Figure 29 This is a top view of the manual release assembly and clutch assembly in the support base of the patient support device, wherein the manual release assembly is not activated such that the clutch assembly engages between the linear actuator and the braking element of the caster and is configured to transmit motion between the linear actuator and the braking element of the caster to brake and release the brake on the caster.

[0137] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 A top view of the manual release assembly and clutch assembly, wherein the plunger of the manual release assembly has been pulled to activate the manual release assembly and has disengaged the clutch assembly to disengage the linear actuator from the brake element of the caster, thereby allowing the manual release assembly to release the brake on the caster.

[0138] Figure 31 It is similar Figure 30 A top view of the manual release assembly and clutch assembly, wherein the plunger of the manual release assembly has been released such that the biasing member causes the plunger to move toward its initial inactive position and causes the clutch assembly to move toward the engagement arrangement while remaining disengaged, so that the clutch assembly is ready to engage in response to movement of the linear actuator.

[0139] Figure 32 yes Figure 30 An enlarged view of the manual release assembly and the clutch assembly, wherein the manual release assembly is activated to put the clutch assembly in a disengaged arrangement;

[0140] Figure 33 yes Figure 31 An enlarged view of the manual release assembly and clutch assembly, wherein the plunger of the manual release assembly is released after the manual release assembly is activated to put the clutch assembly in a disengaged arrangement (but biased towards an engaged arrangement, and ready to re-engage in response to the retraction of the linear actuator).

[0141] Figure 34 This is a cross-sectional view of the braking system in the support base of the patient support device, with the linear actuator in the fully deployed position so that the clutch assembly engages the travel stop to prevent the linear actuator from over-deploying.

[0142] Figure 35 It is an enlarged 3D view of the brake assembly, in which the brake element of the caster is in the released position;

[0143] Figure 36 It is a cross-sectional view of one of the casters in the patient support device. The braking element of the caster includes a hex bolt, and the braking system includes a fork connected to one end of the hex bolt for moving the hex bolt between a braking position and a released braking position, and also includes a retaining screw for preventing rotation of the hex bolt during braking system calibration.

[0144] Figure 37 This is a cross-sectional view of a linear actuator and mounting base for a brake actuator located within a support base of a patient support device. The mounting base is connected to a plate of the support base via fasteners, and the braking system includes a jack screw for positioning the mounting base relative to the plate during braking system calibration; and

[0145] Figure 38 This is a cross-sectional view of a shaft assembly of a braking system located in a support base of a patient support device. The shaft assembly includes a first shaft and a second shaft, the second shaft being connected to the first shaft via fasteners in slots to allow restricted movement of the shafts for calibration of the braking system. Detailed Implementation

[0146] Patient support device 10 for supporting the patient during surgery is shown. Figure 1A The patient support device 10 illustratively includes a base frame 12 and a patient support member 14. The base frame 12 rests on a floor 16 and is configured to suspend the patient support member 14 above the floor 16 at several different locations, such as... Figure 1B and Figure 1C As shown. Therefore, depending on the specific surgical procedure to be performed on the patient, the patient undergoing surgery can be moved to several different positions and orientations together with the patient support 14.

[0147] The basic frame 12 includes a support base 21 and a lifting system 23, which is connected to the support base 21 and configured to raise and lower the patient support 14 relative to the support base 21, such as... Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown. In the illustrative embodiment, the support base 21 and the lifting system 23 are provided by the first column 24, the second column 26, the extension 28, and the control system 30, as illustrated. Figure 1A As shown. Each column 24, 26 includes a base 31 and a rising column 32 extending upward from the corresponding base 31, as... Figure 1A As shown. In an illustrative embodiment, the base 31 of the first column 24, the base 31 of the second column 26, and the extension 28 cooperate to provide a support base 21. Each base 31 includes a horizontal top plate 51, a vertical lower plate 53 extending downward from the horizontal top plate 51, and a cover 55 connecting the top plate 51 to receive the lower plate 53. In an illustrative embodiment, the lifting column 32 of the first column 24, the lifting column 32 of the second column 26, and the control system 30 cooperate to provide a lifting system 23. In an illustrative embodiment, the patient support device 10 can support a patient weighing up to 650 pounds. In the exemplary patient support device 10 of the present invention, the first column 24 is a head-end column, and the second column 26 is a foot-end column.

[0148] The patient support 14 is connected to the base frame 12 via a yoke 20 between columns 24 and 26. The patient support 14 and the yoke 20 are configured to rotate relative to the base frame 12 about a pivot axis 22, as... Figure 1A Arrow 27 is shown in the middle and in Figure 1C The patient support 14 is further illustrated in the schematic diagram. A pivot axis 22 extends parallel to the length of the patient support 14 and is spaced apart from the length of the patient support. The pivot axis 22 extends through the lifting column 32 of the first column 24 and the lifting column 32 of the second column 26. Therefore, the patient can be rotated before or during the surgical procedure. In some embodiments, the patient support 14 can rotate 360 ​​degrees about the pivot axis 22 and remain in place at the rotated position. Figure 1B As shown, by raising and lowering the lifting columns 32 of columns 24 and 26 relative to each other, the pivot axis 22 can be tilted relative to the floor 16. The patient support 14 can be tilted and rotated, and remains in place in a tilted and rotated arrangement.

[0149] Each lifting column 32 includes a lower portion 34, a middle portion 36 vertically movable along the lower portion 34, and an upper portion 38 vertically movable along the middle portion 36 (as indicated by arrow 39, to raise and lower each end of the patient support 14). In other words, each lifting column 32 includes at least three telescopic sections and an actuator configured to adjust the height of the lifting column 32. Therefore, the surgeon can decide to raise, lower, or tilt the patient before or during the surgical procedure. In other embodiments, the lifting column 32 includes at least two telescopic sections or at least one cantilevered lifting arm.

[0150] In addition, each column 24, 26 of the patient support device 10 includes a pair of casters 33, 35 that engage with the floor 16, such as Figure 1A As shown. All casters 33, 35 are selectively released to allow the patient support device 10 to roll along the floor 16 to different operating rooms or storage rooms within the medical facility. However, during surgical procedures, the patient support device 10 can be held in place relative to the floor 16 by braking the casters 33, 35 to minimize unnecessary patient movement during the procedure.

[0151] Extension 28 extends between posts 24 and 26 and includes a first tube 41 and a second tube 42, the second tube 42 being configured to extend or retract relative to the first tube 41, such as... Figure 1A As indicated by arrow 43. The telescoping of tubes 41 and 42 allows columns 24 and 26 to move between an extended position and a folded position. In the extended position, columns 24 and 26 are spaced apart to support the patient support 14 therebetween. In the stored position, columns 24 and 26 move toward each other, thereby reducing the space occupied by the base frame 12. In the illustrative embodiment, the first tube 41 is connected to the base 31 of the head column 24, and the second tube 42 is connected to the base 31 of the foot column 26. Tubes 41 and 42 can have any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as, but not limited to, circular, square, semi-circular, I-beam, etc.

[0152] The control system 30 is configured to control the movement of the patient support device 10. Specifically, the control system 30 guides the rotation of the patient support 14 about the pivot axis 22, the movement of the upper 38, middle 36 and lower 34 of each lifting column 32 to raise and lower the ends of the patient support, and the degrees of freedom of the casters 33, 35 to roll along the floor 16.

[0153] The control system 30 includes a controller 40, a user interface 44, a rotation system 46, a lifting drive 48, and a braking system 50, such as... Figure 2Schematic illustration. Controller 40 is electrically connected to user interface 44, rotation system 46, lifting actuator 48, and braking system 50. User interface 44 may include display 52 and user input 54, configured to allow surgeons to guide the operation of the base frame systems 46, 48, 50 and receive information about the base frame systems 46, 48, 50. Rotation system 46 is configured to provide electrically driven rotation and manual rotation of patient support 14 about pivot axis 22. Lifting actuator 48 is configured to provide electrically driven movement of upper section 38, middle section 36, and lower section 34 to raise and lower the ends of patient support 14. Braking system 50 is configured to provide electrically driven braking and brake release of casters 33, 35, and allows manual release of the brakes on casters 33, 35 in the event of a power failure.

[0154] In some embodiments, the control system 30 includes a communication interface 37 connected to the controller 40. The communication interface 37 communicates with a remote computer device via a communication infrastructure, such as an Ethernet network of the medical facility where the patient support device 10 is located, and via a communication link. In this document, the remote computer device is sometimes simply referred to as a "computer." For example, a computer may be part of a surgical computer system, a maintenance computer system, or an electronic medical record (EMR) system. However, communication between the communication interface 37 of the patient support device 10 and other computers used in the medical facility is also within the scope of this invention.

[0155] The control system 30 of the patient support device 10 also includes an angle sensor 117, a pair of height sensors 119, and a pair of braking sensors 121, each of which communicates with the controller 40, such as Figure 2 As shown. Angle sensor 117 is included in the rotation system 46 and is configured to detect the angle of the patient support 14 relative to the ground. Height sensor 119 is included in the lift actuator 48 and is configured to detect the height of either end of the patient support 14 based on the amount of lifting applied to the columns 24, 26. Brake sensor 121 is included in the braking system 50 and is configured to detect the position of the linkage 214 to determine the braking state of the casters 33, 35.

[0156] Figure 2The controller 40, schematically shown, illustratively includes a memory 56 containing instructions, a clock 57, and a processor 58 coupled to the clock 57 and memory 56 to execute the instructions stored therein. The memory 56 may be implemented as or otherwise include one or more memory devices or data storage locations, including, for example, dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), mask read-only memory (ROM) devices, erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM) devices, flash memory devices, and / or other volatile and / or non-volatile memory devices. The processor 58 may be implemented as any type of processor capable of executing instructions stored in the memory 56. The illustrative processor 58 is a single-core processor, but in other embodiments, a processor with multiple cores may be used.

[0157] like Figure 1A As shown, the user interface 44 of the illustrative embodiment includes a remote control 60 and a panel 61. The display 52 and inputs 54 of the user interface 44 may be provided by indicators, lights, and buttons on the remote control 60 and panel 61. The remote control 60 is illustratively coupled to the first post 24 via an extendable cord 64 and is removably supported on an accessory side rail 150 located along the right side 63 of the upper portion 38 included in the first post 24. In other embodiments, the remote control 60 may be wireless. The panel 61 is illustratively mounted to the top side 65 of the upper portion 38 included in the first post 24. The patient support 14 may be controlled by either or both of the remote control 60 and panel 61. In other words, the patient support 14 can be adjusted using the remote control 60 and then later adjusted using the panel 61 during the same operation, or vice versa.

[0158] like Figure 3 As shown, the remote control 60 includes buttons 67-75. In an illustrative embodiment, buttons 67-75 are electromechanical push-button switches arranged adjacent to icons indicating the associated movement type, and each button is labeled with an indicator to suggest the direction of movement activated by pressing the corresponding button. In other embodiments, the remote control 60 may include a GUI interface, such as an LCD screen with menus and / or touch-sensitive areas, to implement the described functions.

[0159] Buttons 67 and 68 are configured to activate the rotation system 46, causing the patient support 14 to rotate about the pivot axis 22, as shown. Figure 1CAs shown. Button 69 is configured to activate actuator 49 of lifting drive 48 to simultaneously raise the upper portion 38 and middle portion 36 of the first column 24 and the second column 26 relative to the lower portion 34 of the second column 24. Button 70 is configured to activate actuator 49 of lifting drive 48 to simultaneously lower the upper portion 38 and middle portion 36 of the first column 24 and the second column 26 relative to the lower portion 34 of the second column 24.

[0160] Figure 3 The button 71 on the remote control 60 is configured to tilt or lean the patient support 14 toward or to the Trende-Lombard position by activating the actuator 49 included in the lift actuator 48, thereby raising the upper 38 and middle 36 of the second column 26 relative to the lower 34 of the second column 26 and lowering the lower 38 and middle 36 of the first column 24 relative to the lower 34 of the first column, thereby rotating the patient support 14 such that the pivot axis 22 is not parallel to the floor 16. Figure 1B As shown. Button 72 is configured to tilt the patient support 14 toward the Trende-Lombard position or to the reverse Trende-Lombard position by activating the actuator 49 included in the lift actuator 48, thereby lowering the upper portion 38 and middle portion 36 of the second column 26 relative to the lower portion 34 and raising the upper portion 38 and middle portion 36 of the first column 24 relative to the lower portion 34, thereby rotating the patient support 14 such that the pivot axis 22 is not parallel to the floor 16.

[0161] Figure 3 The button 73 on the remote control 60 is configured to level the patient support 14 by raising or lowering the upper 38 and middle 36 of the first and second pillars 24 and 26 relative to the lower 34 of the second pillar 24 and 26, thereby moving the patient support 14 to a horizontal position relative to the floor 16 in the horizontal plane. In an illustrative embodiment, when the button 75 is pressed, the pillars 24 and 26 each move to approximately the midpoint of their current height difference range. As an example, if the patient support 14 is in the Trend-Lombard position and the button 75 is activated, the first pillar 24 rises to approximately the midpoint between the current height of the first pillar 24 and the current height of the second pillar 26, and the second pillar 24 lowers to approximately the same midpoint height. In other embodiments, the first pillar 24 may move while the second pillar 26 remains at its current height, the second pillar 26 may move while the first pillar 24 remains at its current height, or the first and second pillars 24 and 26 may move relative to each other by other unequal amounts. In response to the activation of button 73, columns 24 and 26 automatically move to approximately equal or identical heights. As a result, axis 22 extends approximately horizontally relative to floor 16.

[0162] In the illustrative embodiment, activating button 73 also causes the rotation system 46 to automatically center the patient support 14. In other words, the rotation system 46 rotates the patient support 14 about axis 22 to bring the patient support 14 to a centered (zero-angle) position. In this position, the patient is typically facing upwards or downwards. In this embodiment, the movement of the height of the columns 24, 26 and the rotation of the patient support 14 occur simultaneously. In some embodiments, the height may be changed before rotating the patient support 14, or the patient support 14 may be rotated first, and then the height of the columns 24, 26 may be changed to bring the patient support 14 horizontal.

[0163] Button 74 is configured to raise the patient leg support 14, which has a pivotable leg support, from a lowered position to an elevated position. Button 74 is configured to lower the patient leg support 14, which has a pivotable leg support, from an elevated position to a lowered position.

[0164] Figure 3 The button 76 on the remote control 60 is configured to lock the braking system 50 simultaneously in response to being pressed and optionally held down for a predetermined period of time, thereby simultaneously locking each of the casters 33, 35 included in the first pillar 24 and the second pillar 26. Activating the button 76 causes the brake lock indicator 82 on the panel 61 to illuminate a first color or otherwise indicate that the braking system 50 is locked. Illustratively, the first color is green. Buttons 77 and 78 are configured to unlock the braking system 50 simultaneously in response to being pressed and optionally held down for a predetermined period of time, thereby simultaneously unlocking each of the casters 33, 35 included in the first pillar 24 and the second pillar 26. Activating the buttons 77 and 78 causes the brake unlock indicator 82 on the panel 61 to illuminate a second color or otherwise indicate that the braking system 50 is unlocked. Illustratively, the second color is orange.

[0165] like Figure 4 As shown, panel 61 includes indicator lights 79-82, 98, 99 (which display status information related to the base frame 12 and patient support 14), and a rotation indicator 83 indicating the rotation angle of the patient support 14. Panel 61 also includes buttons 84-97 for controlling the lift actuator 48 and the braking system 50. In an illustrative embodiment, panel 61 includes a GUI with an LCD for displaying information and / or a touchscreen for displaying information and receiving user input. Panel 61 may include a cover with buttons and a polymer insulating layer located between the cover and a metal or other structure of the first post. The polymer insulating layer prevents electrical short circuits between the buttons and the first post.

[0166] When the controller 40 determines that the base frame 12 requires maintenance, the maintenance indicator 98 illuminates, indicating the maintenance status. When the maintenance indicator 98 is illuminated, all power-driven functions of the base frame 12 can be disabled. When the control system 30 receives power from an external power source (not shown) and the battery level indicator 99 displays the battery level, the battery level indicator 99 illuminates. When the braking system 50 is released, allowing the casters 33 and 35 to roll freely along the floor 16, the brake indicator 82 may display a first color or remain off, indicating the braking status, and may display a second color or illuminate in response to the braking system 50 being in the braking position.

[0167] When the remote control 60 is activated for control, the suspension control indicator 80 can be illuminated. When the rotation system 46 is configured to allow manual rotation of the patient support 14 about the pivot axis 22, the flip indicator 81 illuminates, thus indicating the rotation status. The rotation indicator 83 indicates the rotation angle of the rotation system 46, thereby displaying the rotation angle status of the patient support 14 relative to the base frame 12. In the illustrative embodiment, the rotation indicator 83 is analog, but in some embodiments it may be a digital indicator.

[0168] Power button 84 turns the control system 30 on and off. Panel lock button 85 locks the activation of the buttons on panel 61. Buttons 86 and 87 provide functions similar to buttons 67 and 68 on remote control 60. Buttons 88 and 89 provide functions similar to buttons 69 and 70 on remote control 60. Buttons 90 and 91 provide functions similar to buttons 71 and 72 on remote control 60. Buttons 92 and 93 provide functions similar to buttons 74 and 75 on remote control 60. Button 94 provides a function similar to button 73 on remote control 60. Button 97 locks casters 33 and 35, similar to button 76; buttons 95 and 96 provide caster unlocking functions similar to buttons 77 and 78 on remote control 60.

[0169] Memory 56 includes instructions executable by processor 58 to perform functions associated with buttons 67-77 and 84-97. Regarding leveling buttons 73 and 94, the instructions cause the first and second lifting columns 32 to move from a first arrangement to a second arrangement, in which the first drive shaft 110 of the rotation system 46 is at a first height and the second drive shaft 114 is at a second height different from the first height, and in the second arrangement, the first shaft 110 is at a third height and the second shaft 114 is at a third height. In an illustrative embodiment, the third height is between the first and second heights. The third height may be substantially midway between the first and second heights. The instructions also cause the first and second lifting columns 32 to rotate the patient support 14 about axis 22 to a predetermined orientation relative to the lifting system 23. In an illustrative embodiment, the predetermined orientation is a zero-degree position, in which the top of the support is configured to allow the patient supported thereon to be oriented in an upward or downward arrangement. In an illustrative embodiment, the changes in the height and rotation angle of the patient support 14 occur simultaneously.

[0170] A rotation system 46 for rotating the patient support 14 relative to the base frame 12 is housed in the columns 24, 26 of the base frame 12 and connected to the patient support 14, such as... Figure 2 As schematically shown, the rotation system 46 is housed in the first and second lifting columns 32 of columns 24, 26. The rotation system 46 can operate in a power-driven mode to rotate the patient support 14 about the pivot axis 22 in response to a user pressing one of the buttons 67, 68 on the remote control 60 or one of the buttons 86, 87 on the panel 61. Therefore, the user can rotate the patient without adjusting the mechanical lock or manually controlling the patient's tilt. Alternatively, in manual mode, the rotation system 46 allows the patient support 14 to be manually rotated relative to the base frame 12 about the pivot axis 22.

[0171] Rotation system 46 includes a rotation driver 108, a drive shaft 110 configured to be operatively coupled to patient support 14, and a drive connector 112, such as Figure 2As shown. Drive coupling 112 connects the rotary actuator 108 to the drive shaft 110 when the rotary system 46 is in energized mode, and disconnects the rotary actuator 108 from the drive shaft 110 when the rotary system is in manual mode. The rotary actuator 108, drive shaft 110, and drive coupling 112 are included within the lifting column 32 of the first column 24. The rotary system 46 also includes a shaft 114 included within the lifting column 32 of the second column 26 and configured to be operatively coupled to the patient support 14, and an axle brake 116 illustratively coupled to the shaft 114. The patient support device 10 includes a yoke 20 (sometimes referred to as an "H" frame) coupled between the rotary system 46 of the base frame 12 and the patient support 14, as shown. Figure 1A As shown. The yoke 20 connects shafts 110 and 114 to the patient support 14.

[0172] The rotary actuator 108 includes a linear actuator 120 and a rotary arm 122 coupled to the linear actuator 120, such as Figure 5 As shown. Linear actuator 120 extends and retracts in response to user operation of buttons 67, 68 on remote control 60 and buttons 86, 87 on panel 61. Linear actuator 120 also extends and retracts in response to operation of buttons 73, 94 to level the patient.

[0173] The rotation indicator 83 is operably connected to the rotation arm 122, such as Figure 5 As shown. The rotary indicator 83 is configured to display information indicating the angle of rotation of the patient support 14 about axis 22. The rotary indicator 83 is attached to the top surface of the lifting column 32 of the first column 24. The rotary indicator 83 includes a gauge guide 126, a pointer 128, and a sliding rod 130, as shown. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown. Gauge rail 126 defines the path of movement of pointer 128. Pointer 128 is visible to the user through opening 132 on panel 61 and moves along the path of gauge rail 126 to indicate the rotation angle of patient support 14 in response to rotation of patient support 14 about axis 22. Panel 61 and / or gauge rail 126 include marks or scale lines at predetermined positions such that the relative positions of pointer 128 and the marks indicate the rotation angle to the user. Such scales can be marked with numbers or other symbols indicating the rotation angle. Slide bar 130 is operatively coupled to rotating arm 122 and rotates together with rotating arm 122.

[0174] The gauge rail 126 is formed to define a pointer display opening 132 that exposes the pointer 128 to the user and a guide slot 134. The gauge rail 126 is fixed to the lifting column 32, and the guide slot 134 extends laterally along a linear path. The illustrative guide slot 134 extends into the proximal and distal ends of the gauge rail 126. The gauge rail 126 also includes an opening 136 that opens into the guide slot 134 to receive the pointer 128. The pointer 128 includes a pointer body 138 extending into the guide slot 134 to slide along it, and a marker 140 coupled to the pointer body 138 and arranged such that at least a portion of the marker 140 is visible to the user through the opening 132. The pointer 128 further defines a cavity that receives a portion of a sliding rod 130. In the illustrative embodiment, first and second pins 142 extend into the cavity to engage with the sliding rod 130. In other embodiments, the slider 130 may act on other parts, features, or walls of the pointer 128.

[0175] The sliding rod 130 is configured to rotate about axis 22 and engage with pointer 128, causing pointer 128 to move in guide groove 134 in response to rotation of patient support 14 to indicate to the user the angle of rotation of patient support 14 about axis. The sliding rod 130 extends in a cantilever relationship from a first end 144 connected to the rotating arm 122 of the first lifting column 32 to a second end 146 in a cavity of pointer body 138. The second end 146 engages pin 142 or other structure of marker 140 to cause marker 140 to slide along the path of guide groove 134.

[0176] During use of the patient support device 10, the actuator 120, in response to input from the user, causes the rotating arm 122 to rotate to rotate the patient support 14, or the rotating arm 122 can be manually operated. The rotation of the rotating arm 122 causes the sliding rod 130 to rotate about axis 22, and causes the mark 140 to slide in the guide groove 134 of the gauge rail 126. As the sliding rod 130 rotates along an arc, and the portion of the mark 140 engaging the sliding rod 130 slides relative to it, the rotational motion of the sliding rod 130 is transmitted to the mark 140 and translated into linear motion of the mark 140. Based on the linear motion of the mark 140 along the guide groove 134, the scale lines on the panel 61 or the gauge rail 126 are calibrated to correspond to the angles of the patient support 14. For example, the spacing between adjacent scale lines can decrease as the scale lines move laterally away from the center (zero position) of the guide groove 134. In other words, the spacing between the 30-degree and 45-degree rotation scale lines can be smaller than the spacing between the 0-degree and 15-degree rotation scale lines. The reverse rotation of the rotating arm 122 causes the sliding rod 130 to move the mark 140 in the opposite direction along the guide groove 134 toward the center of the groove 134. If further rotation occurs, it causes the mark to move laterally beyond the center of the guide groove 134.

[0177] The lifting column 32 of the first column 24 further includes an accessory guide rail 150 connected to the side wall of the lifting column 32, such as... Figures 7-9D As shown. The accessory rail 150 is fixed to the lifting column 32 and is configured to support accessory components on the lifting column 32 in a removable connection relationship. Accessory components may include a remote control 60, surgical instruments, and support structures such as a worktable, tray, additional rails, etc. The accessory rail 150 includes a first rail body 152 extending laterally away from the first lifting column 32 and a second rail body 154 extending longitudinally away from the ends of the first rail body 152, such as... Figures 9A-9D As shown. The first guide rail body 152 is formed to define a first channel 156 extending rearward into the first guide rail body 152 and a second channel 158 extending forward into the first guide rail body 152.

[0178] The first guide rail body 152 is formed to include one or more elongated slots 160 that penetrate the first guide rail body 152 and lead to the first channel 156 and the second channel 158. In an illustrative embodiment, the one or more elongated slots 160 include two slots spaced apart from each other in a laterally direction. The elongated slots 160 extend into the first guide rail body 152 in a front-rear direction, completely penetrating the first guide rail body 152. The accessory guide rail 150 is coupled to the side of the retractable upper section 38 of the lifting column 32.

[0179] The patient support device 10 includes a caster brake indicator system 162, which is configured to illuminate light indicating the braking status of casters 33 and 35, such as... Figures 10-14 As shown below, each caster 33, 35 includes a support rod 312, a wheel 316, and a braking element 318. The wheel 316 is coupled to the support rod 312 to rotate about an axle relative to the support rod 312. The braking element 318 is movable from a released braking position, which allows the wheel 316 to rotate relative to the support rod 312, to a braking position, which prevents the wheel 316 from rotating relative to the support rod 312. A caster brake indication system 162 illuminates one or more lights to indicate that the braking element 318 is in a braking position and / or a released braking position. The braking system 50 is configured to move the braking element 318 between the braking position and the released braking position and illustratively includes a linear actuator 218 that drives the movement of the braking element 318.

[0180] The caster brake indication system 162 includes a light emitter 164 and a window 166, such as Figure 11As shown. A light emitter 164 is coupled to a vertical plate 53 and electrically connected to and via a controller 40 to a braking system 50. The light emitter 164 includes at least one light source and is configured to excite and illuminate light to provide a sign 165 indicating that the caster brake is engaged or disengaged. The at least one light source may include a single light source providing one or more different colors or multiple light sources providing different colors. A window 166 is coupled to a cover 55 and is translucent or transparent to allow light to be emitted by the light emitter 164 through the window 166. In an illustrative embodiment, the light emitter 164 and the window 166 are configured to illuminate the floor below the patient support device 10 with light to provide a sign 165 indicating the status of the caster brake.

[0181] Light emitter 164 is configured to emit a first color in response to braking element 318 being in a braking position, and to emit a second color in response to braking element 318 being in a released position. The second color is different from the first color. As an illustrative example, the first color may be yellow, amber, orange, or red, and the second color may be green. In some embodiments, light emitter 164 is configured to illuminate light to provide a mark 165 in response to braking element 318 being in either the released or braking position only. In some embodiments, light emitter 164 or window 166 includes a mark provided thereon, such that light illuminates the floor with the mark. For example, mark 165 may be colored as described above and / or may also display symbols, text, shapes, etc., in the illuminated area.

[0182] Window 166 is located at the nearest end of base 31 and approximately midway between casters 33 and 35, as shown. Figure 10 As shown. Therefore, light is emitted and illuminates the area of ​​floor 16 located in front of the first pillar 24, as... Figure 1A and Figure 12 As shown. Window 166 has an upper surface 168 and a lower surface 170, as... Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown. The lower surface 170 includes a protrusion 172 extending through an opening in the cover 55 and a mounting surface 174 extending along the protrusion 172. The window 166 includes a fastener 176 extending through the lower surface 170 and the upper surface 168 to engage the window 166 with the cover 55. The window 166 is formed to include a recess 178 extending toward the upper surface 168 into the lower surface 170 and receiving a large portion of the fastener 176 therein.

[0183] The extension 28 extends between the first base 31 of the first column 24 and the second base 31 of the second column 26, and connects them to each other, as shown in the figure. Figure 1AAs shown in FIG1, the extension 28 is configured to allow the support base 21 to move between an unfolded position in which the first base 31 and the second base 31 are spaced apart by a first distance, and a folded position in which the first base 31 and the second base 31 are spaced apart by a second distance less than the first distance.

[0184] The extension 28 includes a locking unit 180 configured to allow and prevent movement of the extension 28 between an unfolded position and a folded position, such as... Figures 15-18 As shown. The locking unit 180 is configured to move between a locking arrangement and an unlocking arrangement. In the locking arrangement, relative movement between the first tube 41 and the second tube 42 of the extension 28 is prevented. In the unlocking arrangement, relative movement between the first tube 41 and the second tube 42 is allowed to move the support base 21 between a folded position and an unfolded position.

[0185] Locking unit 180 is connected to first tube 41, such as Figure 16 As shown. The first tube 41 includes a tube body 182 and a strip 184 connected to the tube body 182. The tube body 182 is cut to form the strip 184, such that the tube body 182 and the strip 184 are integrally formed. The locking unit 180 is configured to selectively move the strip 184 relative to the tube body 182 of the first tube 41 to apply a clamping force to the second tube 42 and prevent relative movement between the first tube 41 and the second tube 42.

[0186] Locking unit 180 includes a first mounting plate 186, a second mounting plate 188, and a pedal assembly 190, such as Figure 15 , Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown. A first mounting plate 186 is fixedly connected to the tube body 182 of the first tube 41. A second mounting plate 188 is connected to the free end of a strip 184 to allow the strip 184 to move relative to the tube body 182. A pedal assembly 190 is connected to the first mounting plate 186 and the second mounting plate 188 to selectively move the second mounting plate 188 relative to the first mounting plate 186, thereby causing the strip 184 to apply a clamping force to the second tube 42 and prevent movement between the first tube 41 and the second tube 42.

[0187] The pedal assembly 190 includes a pin 192 coupled to a second mounting plate 188, a cam body 194 coupled to the pin and configured to move the pin 192, and a foot lever 196 configured to control the movement of the cam body 194, such as... Figure 17 and 18As shown. Pin 192 extends through the second mounting plate 188 and is connected to the second mounting plate 188 via a nut, threaded connection, welding, etc. Pin 192 extends through the first mounting plate 186 and is freely movable relative to the first mounting plate 186. Thus, the movement of pin 192 causes the second mounting plate 188 and strip 184 to move relative to the first mounting plate 186 and tube 182. Cam body 194 is pivotally connected to pin 192 and engages with the first mounting plate 186. Cam body 194 has a cam surface with a first portion 197 arranged to engage the first mounting plate 186 and move pin 192 to cause the second mounting plate 188 to move toward the first mounting plate 186 and apply compressive force to the second tube 42 to lock the extension 28.

[0188] The cam surface has a second portion 198, which is arranged to engage the first mounting plate 186 and allow the pin 192 to move, causing the second mounting plate 188 to move away from the first mounting plate 186 and reducing or eliminating the compressive force on the second tube 42 to unlock the extension 28 and allow its movement. A foot pedal 196 is coupled to the cam body 194 and configured to rotate the cam body 194 relative to the first mounting plate 186. The foot pedal 196 has a first pedal and a second pedal spaced apart from the first pedal. A user can press each of the first and second pedals to rotate the foot pedal 196 and the cam body 194 about an axis to change the portions 197, 197 of the cam surface engaging with the first mounting plate 186, thereby locking and unlocking the locking unit 180.

[0189] The height of the patient support device 10 is adjustable to raise and lower the patient support member 14, such as... Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown. The retractable lifting column 32 of the first column 24 and the second column 26 is configured to minimize the height of the patient support 14 when the patient support device 10 is in its lowest position compared to a conventional patient support device, while providing the desired height in the raised position. In the illustrative embodiment, the minimized lowest position and the desired raised position height are provided by three or more retractable segments 34, 36, 38 of the lifting column 32.

[0190] The base height d1 is defined as the vertical distance between the upper surface of the horizontal top plate 51 included in the base 31 of each column 24, 26, such as... Figure 19 and Figure 20As shown. In both the lowered and raised positions of the lifting column 32 of the lifting system 23, the base height d1 remains constant. In an illustrative embodiment, the base height d1 is approximately 246 mm or less. In an illustrative embodiment, the base height d1 is approximately 250 mm or less. In an illustrative embodiment, the base height d1 is approximately 200 mm or less. In an illustrative embodiment, the base height d1 is approximately 300 mm or less.

[0191] The workbench height d2 is defined as the vertical distance between the floor 16 and the upper surface of the frame 15 included in the patient support 14, which is connected to the lowest connection point of the yoke 20, such as... Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown. In an illustrative embodiment, with the lifting column 32 of the lifting system 23 in the lowered position, the platform height d2 is approximately 560 mm or less. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the lowered position, the platform height d2 is approximately 600 mm or less. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the lowered position, the platform height d2 is approximately 580 mm or less. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the lowered position, the platform height d2 is approximately 550 mm or less.

[0192] In illustrative embodiments, with the lifting column 32 in the raised position, the table height d2 is approximately 1060 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the table height d2 is approximately 900 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the table height d2 is approximately 950 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the table height d2 is approximately 1000 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the table height d2 is approximately 1050 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the table height d2 is approximately 1100 mm or greater.

[0193] The pivot height d3 is defined as the vertical distance between the floor 16 and the pivot 22 of the axes 110 and 114 that pass through the rotation system 46, such as... Figure 19 and Figure 20As shown. When columns 24 and 26 are in the lowered and raised positions, pivot 22 is generally horizontal. In an illustrative embodiment, in the lowered position of the lifting column 32 of the lifting system 23, the pivot height d3 is approximately 790 mm or less. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the lowered position, the pivot height d3 is approximately 800 mm or less. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the lowered position, the pivot height d3 is approximately 850 mm or less. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the lowered position, the pivot height d3 is approximately 900 mm or less. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the lowered position, the pivot height d3 is approximately 750 mm or less. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the lowered position, the pivot height d3 is approximately 700 mm or less.

[0194] In illustrative embodiments, in the raised position of the lifting column 32 of the lifting system 23, the pivot height d3 is approximately 1290 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the pivot height d3 is approximately 1300 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the pivot height d3 is approximately 1350 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the pivot height d3 is approximately 1400 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the pivot height d3 is approximately 1250 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the pivot height d3 is approximately 1200 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the pivot height d3 is approximately 1100 mm or greater.

[0195] The column top height d4 is defined as the vertical distance between the highest points of floor 16 and the top sides 65 of columns 24 and 26, such as... Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown. In an illustrative embodiment, in the lowered position of the lifting column 32 of the lifting system 23, the column top height d4 is approximately 790 mm or less. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the lowered position, the column top height d4 is approximately 920 mm or less. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the lowered position, the column top height d4 is approximately 950 mm or less. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the lowered position, the column top height d4 is approximately 1000 mm or less. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the lowered position, the column top height d4 is approximately 900 mm or less.

[0196] In an illustrative embodiment, in the raised position of the lifting column 32 of the lifting system 23, the column top height d4 is approximately 1420 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the column top height d4 is approximately 1450 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the column top height d4 is approximately 1500 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the column top height d4 is approximately 1400 mm or greater. In some embodiments, when the lifting column 32 is in the raised position, the column top height d4 is approximately 1350 mm or greater.

[0197] The heights of the first and second lifting columns of the lifting system 23 are adjustable such that the ratio between the highest vertical distance of the pivot height d3 corresponding to the raised position of the lifting system 23 and the lowest vertical distance of the pivot height d3 corresponding to the lowered position of the lifting system 23 is greater than or equal to 1.5:1. In some embodiments, the ratio is greater than or equal to 1.3:1. In some embodiments, the ratio is greater than or equal to 1.6:1. In some embodiments, the ratio is greater than or equal to 2:1. In some embodiments, the ratio is less than or equal to 2:1.

[0198] The heights of the first and second lifting columns 32 of the lifting system 23 are adjustable relative to the base 31, such that when the lifting system 23 moves between a lowered position and a raised position, the ratio between the pivot height d3 and the base height d1 when the pivot 22 is horizontally oriented relative to the floor 16 is variable between at least 3.5:1 (in the lowered position) and 5:1 (in the raised position). For example, in the lowered position, the ratio may be approximately 3.5:1 or less, and in the raised position, the ratio may be approximately 5:1 or greater.

[0199] In some embodiments, when the lifting system is in the lowered position, the ratio between the pivot height d3 and the base height d1 is approximately 3.2:1. In some embodiments, when the lifting system is in the lowered position, the ratio between the pivot height d3 and the base height d1 is approximately 2.33:1. In some embodiments, when the lifting system is in the lowered position, the ratio between the pivot height d3 and the base height d1 is approximately 4:1. In some embodiments, when the lifting system is in the lowered position, the ratio between the pivot height d3 and the base height d1 is approximately 3.5:1.

[0200] In some embodiments, when the lifting system is in the raised position, the ratio between the pivot height d3 and the base height d1 is approximately 7:1. In some embodiments, the ratio between the pivot height d3 and the base height d1 is approximately 3.66:1. In some embodiments, the ratio between the pivot height d3 and the base height d1 is approximately 5:1. In some embodiments, the ratio between the pivot height d3 and the base height d1 is approximately 4.66:1.

[0201] The braking system 50 for holding the patient support device on the floor 16 includes a brake actuator 212, casters 33, 35, and a link 214 for each of the first base 31 of the first column 24 and the second base 31 of the second column 26. Figure 2 The diagram is shown schematically, and as follows Figures 21-38 The components of one base 31 are illustrated below. For ease of description, only the components of the other base are further described below; the components of the other base are substantially similar to those described below. Therefore, the following description applies to each of the components included in base 31.

[0202] Brake actuator 212 is coupled to controller 40 and configured to actuate braking system 50 between a braking position and a released braking position in response to user input such as buttons 76-78 and 95-97 on remote control 60 and panel 61. Link 214 is coupled between brake actuator 212 and casters 33, 35. Link 214 is configured to transmit motion of brake actuator 212 to braking element 318 of casters 33, 35 to move braking element 318 between a released braking position and a braking position. Link 214 is further configured to allow the user to manually release braking system 50 to move braking element from the braking position to the released braking position. Manual release of the brake allows the user to move patient support device 10 in the event of power failure, emergency, or equipment malfunction.

[0203] Brake actuator 212 includes a mounting base 216 and a linear actuator 218, such as Figures 21-2 As shown in Figure 3, mounting base 216 is connected to a lower plate 53 included in one of columns 24 and 26 and supports linear actuator 218. Linear actuator 218 is pivotally connected to mounting base 216 by bolts and extends or retracts in response to user input to remote control 60 or panel 61. Linear actuator 218 is further operatively connected to linkage 214 to selectively drive linkage 214 to move.

[0204] The linear actuator 218 is sized and energized to move the braking element 318 from the released braking position to the braking position in less than approximately 2 seconds, and from the braking position to the released braking position in less than approximately 2 seconds. The linear actuator 218 can also be sized and energized to move the braking element 318 from the released braking position to the braking position in less than approximately 4 seconds, and from the braking position to the released braking position in less than approximately 4 seconds. The linear actuator 218 can also be sized and energized to move the braking element 318 from the released braking position to the braking position in less than approximately 3 seconds, and from the braking position to the released braking position in less than approximately 3 seconds. The linear actuator 218 can be sized and energized to move the braking element 318 from the release position to the braking position in less than about 1.75 seconds, and to move the braking element 318 from the braking position to the release position in less than about 1.75 seconds.

[0205] Mounting base 216 includes mounting body 220, one or more fasteners 222 and set screw 224, such as Figures 35-37 As shown. Fastener 222 extends into a retainer on mounting body 220 and plate 53 or lower plate 53 to engage mounting body 220 with plate 53. Mounting body 220 is pivotally engaged with linear actuator 218 and provides engagement functionality to secure linear actuator 218 to lower plate 53. Set screw 224 engages with lower plate 53 or other retainers on lower plate 53 and is configured to selectively engage mounting body 220 during, for example, brake system 50 calibration, as described in further detail below.

[0206] The mounting body 220 is formed to define a hole 228 for receiving fasteners 222 and linear actuator bolts, such as Figure 37 The cross-sectional view is shown. In the illustrative embodiment, the hole 228 is threaded. The lower plate 53 (or other fasteners on the lower plate 53) is formed to include an elongated slot 59 extending through the lower plate 53. A fastener 222 extends through the elongated slot 59 and into the mounting body 220 to engage the mounting body 220 with the lower plate 53. The elongated slot 59 allows the mounting body 220 to move laterally relative to the lower plate 53, for example, during calibration. The fastener 222 is used to prevent movement of the mounting body 220 relative to the lower plate 53. In other embodiments, the mounting body 220 is formed with an elongated slot, and / or the lower plate 53 is formed with a threaded hole or a smooth hole.

[0207] Casters 33 and 35 both include a support rod 312, a hub 314, and a wheel 316, such as Figure 24As shown. Support rod 312 is connected to the lower plate 53 of one of the columns 24 and 26. Hub 314 and wheel 316 are connected to support rod 312 to pivot about a vertical axis, allowing the caster to change direction relative to base 31. Wheel 316 is connected to hub 314 to rotate about a horizontal axis, allowing casters 33 and 35 to roll along floor 16.

[0208] Each of the four casters 33 and 35 also includes a braking element 318, such as Figure 21 , Figure 35 and Figure 36 As shown, and as Figure 2 The diagram is schematically shown. Each braking element 318 is movable between a released braking position and a braking position. In the released braking position, the braking element 318 allows the hub 314 and wheel 316 to pivot about a vertical axis and allows the wheel 316 to rotate about a horizontal axis. In the braking position, the braking element 318 prevents the hub 314 and wheel 316 from pivoting about a vertical axis and prevents the wheel 316 from rotating about a horizontal axis, thereby completely securing the casters 33, 35.

[0209] When the casters 33, 35 of the braking system 50 are driven to the braking or releasing position by the remote control 60 or panel 61, the braking elements 318 of all four casters 33, 35 engage to secure the casters 33, 35 or disengage to allow movement of the casters 33, 35. The securing of the casters 33, 35 prevents movement of the patient support device 10 relative to the floor 16 during surgery. In cases of significant power loss in the patient support device 10, the braking elements 318 of the casters 33, 35 can be moved to the released position via the manual release assembly 236 included in the linkage 214.

[0210] Link 214 is configured to convert the linear motion of brake actuator 212 into rotation of brake element 318, such that braking system 50, as shown in Figure 23 and Figure 24 The linkage 214 is driven between the braking position and the released braking position. The linkage 214 is also configured to manually release the casters 33, 35 from the brake actuator 212 and move the braking element 318 of the casters 33, 35 from the braking position to the released braking position, such that when the user manually releases the linkage 214, the braking system is in the released braking position, as shown. Figure 30 and Figure 32 As shown.

[0211] Linkage 214 includes shaft assembly 232, clutch assembly 234, and manual release assembly 236, such as Figures 21-24 As shown. The shaft assembly 232 is connected to the braking element 318 to allow the braking element 318 to move between a released braking position and a braking position. Figure 25As indicated by arrow 237, the clutch assembly 234 is configured to rotate about the clutch axis 235 relative to the lower plate 53 (or the mounting base 216 connected to the lower plate 53) via a linear actuator 218, thereby moving the shaft assembly 232 and, consequently, the braking element 318 between a released braking position and a braking position. A manual release assembly 236 is coupled to the clutch assembly 234 and the shaft assembly 232 and is configured to operably disengage the linear actuator 218 from the shaft assembly 232 in response to user manual activation of the manual release assembly 236, and bias the shaft assembly 232 to move the braking element to the released braking position, as shown below. Figure 31 and Figure 32 As shown.

[0212] The shaft assembly 232 of the connecting rod 214 includes a rod 238, a first fork 240, and a second fork 241, as shown in Figure 23 and Figure 24 As shown. Lever 238 is coupled to clutch assembly 234 and configured to move laterally relative to the lower plate 53 in response to the extension and retraction of linear actuator 218. Lever 238 can move along an arcuate path due to rotation of clutch assembly 234, wherein lever 238 generally remains horizontal to floor 16 during its travel. First fork 240 is pivotally coupled to lever 238 and brake element 318 of caster 35. Second fork 241 is pivotally coupled to lever 238 and brake element 318 of caster 33. Movement of lever 238 causes forks 240 and 241 to rotate brake element 318 and move brake element 318 between a braking position and a released position, as shown in Figures 23 and 244. Figure 24 As shown. In the illustrative embodiment, the shaft assembly 232 moves the two braking elements 318 of the casters 33 and 35 substantially simultaneously.

[0213] Rod 238 includes a first shaft 242 and a second shaft 243 connected to the first shaft 242, as shown in Figure 23 and Figure 24 As shown. A first shaft 242 and a first fork 240 cooperate to define a first caster brake link 244, and a second shaft 243 and a second fork 241 cooperate to define a second caster brake link 245. During operation of the braking system 50, the first shaft 242 and the second shaft 243 are fastened together to move together. However, the first shaft 242 and the second shaft 243 can selectively move relative to each other to adjust the length of a rod 238 used for calibration. The first caster brake link and the second caster brake link, and consequently the rod 238, are biased toward moving the braking element toward a release position. Both the first shaft 242 and the second shaft 243 can be made from a single component or multiple components joined together, for example, by welding or fasteners.

[0214] The shaft assembly 232 optionally includes a cam 246, which is coupled to one of the first caster brake link 244 and the second caster brake link 245, as shown below. Figure 35As shown. Cam 246 is configured to engage another of the first caster wheel brake link 244 and the second caster wheel brake link 245, to selectively cause the first caster wheel brake link 244 away from the second caster wheel brake link 245, for example, during brake system 50 calibration. Figure 24 and Figure 38 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the cam 246 is connected to the second shaft 243 of the second caster brake link 245 and can selectively urge the first shaft 242 and, consequently, the first caster brake link 244 away from the second shaft 243. In the illustrative embodiment, the cam 246 includes a washer 247 with an eccentric profile that engages the first caster brake link 244, and a fastener 248 that connects the washer 247 to the second caster brake link 245. In other embodiments, the cam 246 may be provided by other suitable alternative components in a cam or wedge shape.

[0215] like Figure 38 As shown in the cross-sectional view, one of the first caster wheel brake link 244 and the second caster wheel brake link 245 is formed to define one or more elongated slots 249. The shaft assembly 232 includes one or more fasteners 248, and one of the fasteners 248 extends through a corresponding one of the elongated slots 249 and into the other of the first caster wheel brake link 244 and the second caster wheel brake link 245 to engage the first caster wheel brake link 244 with the second caster wheel brake link 245. Figure 38 As shown, the first shaft 242 of the first caster brake link 244 is formed to include an elongated slot 249, and the second shaft 243 of the second caster brake link 245 is formed to be a circular hole. The elongated slot 249 assists in calibrating the braking system 50, as further described below.

[0216] like Figure 22 , Figure 27 and Figure 28 As shown, clutch assembly 234 is connected to the linear actuator 218 of brake drive 212 and the rod 238 of connecting rod 214. Clutch assembly 234 in Figure 27 and Figure 28 The joint arrangement shown and Figure 30 and Figure 32 The disengaged arrangements shown are movable. In the engaged arrangement, the clutch assembly 234 is rotatable via the linear actuator 218 to transmit motion from the linear actuator 218 to the braking element 318 via the shaft assembly 232, causing the braking element 318 to move between a released braking position and a braking position. In the disengaged arrangement, the clutch assembly 234 operatively disengages the shaft assembly 232 from the linear actuator 218.

[0217] Furthermore, the clutch assembly 234 includes a clutch shaft 250, a first clutch disc 252, and a second clutch disc 253, such as Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown. The clutch shaft 250 is rotatable about the clutch axis 235 and is connected to the shaft assembly 232 to move with it, as... Figure 25 As indicated by arrow 237. The clutch shaft 250 may be further supported or coupled to the manual release assembly 236. A first clutch disc 252 is coupled to a linear actuator 218 and is arranged to selectively rotate relative to the clutch shaft 250 about the clutch axis 235. In the illustrative embodiment, the clutch shaft 250 provides a support surface for the clutch disc 252. In other words, the first clutch disc 252 cannot directly rotate the clutch shaft 250. A second clutch disc 253 is coupled to rotate with the clutch shaft 250. The first clutch disc 252 includes a body and a lever arm extending from the body. The lever arm is coupled to the linear actuator 218 via a hole formed in the lever arm. The lever arm includes an arm coupled to the linear actuator and a protrusion extending from the arm, and is configured to abut a travel stop 288 to limit movement of the linear actuator 218, such as... Figure 34 As shown.

[0218] The second clutch disc 253 is movable between an engaged position (engaged arrangement) and a disengaged position (disengaged arrangement) of the clutch assembly 234. In the engaged position, the second clutch disc 253 is rotatably connected to the first clutch disc 252, allowing the clutch assembly 234 to transmit motion from the linear actuator 218 to the shaft assembly 232 via the first clutch disc 252, the second clutch disc 253, and the clutch shaft 250. In the disengaged position, the second clutch disc 253 is rotatably disengaged from the first clutch disc 252, allowing the second clutch disc 253 and, consequently, the shaft assembly 232, to move freely relative to the first clutch disc 252 and the linear actuator 218. In an illustrative embodiment, the second clutch disc 253 is axially movable relative to the clutch shaft 250 along the clutch axis 235 between the engaged and disengaged positions.

[0219] At least one of the first clutch plate 252 and the second clutch plate 253 is formed to define at least one recess 254 therein, and the other of the first clutch plate and the second clutch plate is formed to include at least one protrusion 255, such as Figure 25 and Figure 26As shown. At least one groove 254 may include a plurality of grooves 254, such as two, three, four, five, etc., and at least one protrusion 255 may include a plurality of protrusions, such as two, three, four, five, etc. Illustratively, the body of the first clutch plate 252 is formed to include at least one groove 254, and the number of grooves 254 is the same as the number of protrusions 255. In response to the second clutch plate 253 being in the engaged position, the protrusions 255 extend into the grooves 254 to rotatably connect the first clutch plate 252 and the second clutch plate 253, as... Figure 27 and Figure 28 As shown. In response to the second clutch plate 253 being in the disengaged position, the protrusion 255 and the groove 254 are spaced apart to rotatably separate the second clutch plate 253 from the first clutch plate 252, as shown. Figure 30 and Figure 32 As shown. In some embodiments, each of the first clutch plate 252 and the second clutch plate 253 is formed to include a groove 254 and a protrusion 255.

[0220] The clutch shaft 250 is connected to the rod 238 of the shaft assembly 232 via the coupling 256, such as Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown. A bushing can be used with the clutch shaft 250 to support the clutch shaft 250. The bushing can be separate or integrated with the clutch shaft 250. A coupling 256 is fixed to the clutch shaft 250 and pivotally coupled to a lever 238 so that the lever 238 moves in response to rotation of the shaft 250. The clutch assembly 234 includes one or more keys 257 that interlock the second clutch disc 253 to the clutch shaft 250 while allowing the second clutch disc 253 to selectively slide axially relative to the clutch shaft 250. In an illustrative embodiment, the key 257 is received in an aperture 258 formed in the clutch shaft 250 to interlock the key 257 to the clutch shaft 250. The second clutch disc 253 is formed to include a slot 259 formed in the inner diameter of the second clutch disc 253. The slot 259 interlocks with the key 257 to engage the second clutch disc 253 with the clutch shaft 250 for radial movement, while simultaneously allowing the second clutch disc 253 to move axially relative to the clutch shaft to engage and disengage with the first clutch disc 252. In some embodiments, the key 257 is interlocked with... Figure 25A and Figure 26A In the example embodiment shown, one of the clutch shaft 250 and the second clutch plate 253 is integrally formed. In some embodiments, the clutch shaft 250 is formed with a slot 259, and the second clutch plate 253 is formed with an orifice 258.

[0221] Clutch assembly 234 includes mounting plate 260 and pin 261, such as Figure 25 and Figure 26As shown. Mounting plate 260 is fixed to lower plate 53 and provides a support surface for clutch shaft 250. Pin 261 extends into first clutch disc 252 and linear actuator 218 to engage linear actuator 218 with clutch disc 252. Brake actuator 212 includes travel stop 288 fixed relative to mounting base 216, lower plate 53, or another fixing member on lower plate 53, such as... Figure 34 As shown. The travel stop 288 is configured to limit the maximum extension of the linear actuator 218. In an exemplary embodiment, the travel stop 288 includes a fastener extending through a support structure on the lower plate 53. The end position of the fastener can be adjusted relative to the lower plate 53 to change the permissible travel of the linear actuator 218. The travel stop 288 is configured to directly engage the first clutch disc 252 or a portion of the linear actuator 218 to prevent the linear actuator from extending beyond a predetermined position. Thus, the travel stop 288 prevents the linear actuator 218 from overextending beyond a point that would cause the linear actuator 218 to drive the clutch assembly 234 or shaft assembly 232 beyond its operable point and damage or impair the function of the braking system 50.

[0222] Another embodiment of clutch assembly 234' is as follows: Figure 25A and Figure 26A As shown. Clutch assembly 234' is substantially the same as the clutch assembly 234 described herein, with only significant differences shown and described herein. Furthermore, clutch assembly 234' includes a clutch shaft 250', a first clutch disc 252', and a second clutch disc 253'. Clutch shaft 250' is rotatable about a clutch axis 235 and coupled to shaft assembly 232 for movement therewith, as indicated by arrow 237. First clutch disc 252' is coupled to linear actuator 218 and configured to selectively rotate relative to clutch shaft 250' about clutch axis 235. Second clutch disc 253' is coupled to rotate with clutch shaft 250'. First clutch disc 252' includes a body and a lever arm extending from the body. First clutch disc 252' is formed to define a plurality of recesses 254' therein, and second clutch disc 253' is formed to include a plurality of protrusions 255', as shown... Figure 25A and Figure 26A As shown. The plurality of recesses 254' include five grooves, and the plurality of protrusions 255' include five protrusions. In response to the second clutch plate 253' being in the engaged position, the protrusions 255' are configured to extend into the recesses 254' to rotatably connect the first clutch plate 252' and the second clutch plate 253'.

[0223] The clutch shaft 250' is connected to the rod 238 of the shaft assembly 232 via a coupling 256. A bushing can be used with the clutch shaft 250' to support it. The clutch assembly 234' includes a key 257' that interlocks the second clutch disc 253' to the clutch shaft 250' while allowing selective axial sliding of the second clutch disc 253' relative to the clutch shaft 250'. The key 257' is integrally formed with the clutch shaft 250' as a single, one-piece component, such as... Figure 25A and Figure 26A As shown. The second clutch disc 253' is formed as a slot 259' formed in the inner diameter of the second clutch disc 253'. The slot 259' interlocks with a key 257' to engage the second clutch disc 253' with the clutch shaft 250' for radial movement, while allowing the second clutch disc 253' to move axially relative to the clutch shaft to engage or disengage with the first clutch disc 252'. The clutch assembly 234' also includes a mounting plate 260 and a pin 261, as shown. Figure 25A and Figure 26A As shown.

[0224] During operation with power on, the braking system 50 can be in the braking position or the braking position can be released, such as... Figure 23A and Figure 24 As shown. In the braking position, the linear actuator 218 is in the extended position, as... Figure 23A As shown. In response to user input to the remote control 60 or panel 61, the linear actuator 218 retracts, causing the first clutch plate 252 to rotate about the clutch axis 235. Since the second clutch plate 253 engages with the first clutch plate 252 via the biasing force of the biasing member 265, the first clutch plate 252 transmits rotational motion to the clutch shaft 250 via the second clutch plate 253 and key 257. The rotation of the clutch shaft 250 causes the lever 238 of the shaft assembly 232 to move laterally via the coupling 256, and moves the brake element 318 to the unlocked position. The lever 238 can move along an arcuate path in a first direction to unlock the brake element 318.

[0225] To brake the braking element 318 from the unlocked position, the linear actuator 218 retracts in response to user input to the remote control 60 or panel 61, causing the first clutch disc 252 to rotate about the clutch axis 235, as... Figure 24 and Figure 25As indicated by the middle arrow, since the second clutch plate 253 engages with the first clutch plate 252 via the biasing force of the biasing member 265, the first clutch plate 252 transmits rotational motion to the clutch shaft 250 via the second clutch plate 253 and key 257. Rotation of the clutch shaft 250 causes the lever 238 of the shaft assembly 232 to move laterally via the coupling 256, and moves the braking element 318 to the locked position. The lever 238 can move along an arcuate path in a second direction to lock the braking element 318.

[0226] Manual release assembly 236 includes a plunger 262, a clutch release fork 263, and a clutch release link 264, such as Figures 27-33 As shown. The plunger 262 is movable relative to the lower plate 53 and the mounting base 216 fixed to the lower plate 53, and is configured to be moved by the user to activate the manual release assembly to release the brake element 318 of the casters 33, 35 on one of the columns 24, 26. The clutch release fork 263 is connected to the clutch assembly 234 and the clutch release link 264 to move the second clutch disc 253 between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The clutch release link 264 is connected to the plunger 262 and the clutch release fork 263, and is configured to, in response to the user pulling the plunger 262 or otherwise activating the plunger 262 or other suitable alternative, cause the clutch release fork 263 to move the clutch assembly 234 and operatively disengage the linear actuator 218 from the shaft assembly 232.

[0227] The plunger 262 extends through the lower plate 53 of the cover 55 and the base 31, allowing a user to access the handle of the plunger 262 from the outside of the base 31. The plunger 262 includes a rod coupled to the handle and a biasing member disposed around the rod and configured to bias the plunger 262 to a retracted position, wherein the handle is close to the cover 55, such as... Figure 29 As shown. The end of the lever is pivotally connected to the clutch release link 264.

[0228] The clutch release fork 263 is pivotally connected to the clutch release link 264 and to the second clutch plate 253. In response to the user pulling the plunger 262, the clutch release fork 263 selectively moves the second clutch plate 253 axially away from the first clutch plate 252 to rotatably disengage the first clutch plate 252 from the second clutch plate 253, such as... Figure 30 and Figure 32As shown. The clutch release fork 263 may be coupled to the second clutch plate 253 via a retaining ring or other suitable alternative. The clutch assembly 234 includes a biasing member 265 disposed about the clutch shaft 250 and engaging the clutch release fork 263 and the clutch release link 264. The biasing member 265 biases the clutch release fork 263 to cause the second clutch plate 253 to engage with the first clutch plate 252.

[0229] The clutch release link 264 includes a first lever 266 pivotally connected to a plunger 262 via a coupling link 267, and a second lever 268 pivotally connected to the first lever 266 and the clutch release fork 263, as follows: Figures 29-33 As shown. The clutch release link 264 also includes a support 269 fixed relative to the lower plate 53 to support the second lever 268, the clutch shaft 250, and the biasing member 265. In response to movement of the plunger 262 relative to the lower plate 53, the first lever 266 is rotatable about a first lever axis 270. The second lever 268 is pivotally connected to the first lever 266 and the release fork 263 and is rotatable about a second lever axis 271. Thus, pulling the plunger 262 causes the first lever 266 to rotate the second lever 268 about the second lever axis 271, and moves the release fork 263 and the second clutch plate 253 away from the first clutch plate 252.

[0230] The first lever 266 and the second lever 268 can cooperate to provide a certain amount of free travel, allowing the plunger 262 to retract at least partially after being pulled. Therefore, while waiting for the braking system 50 to re-engage the clutch assembly 234 after manual release is activated, the length of the plunger 262 extending into space is less than its length in its fully extended position. Figure 30 and Figure 31 As shown, the first lever 266 is formed to include an elongated slot 272, and the second lever 268 includes a lever body 273 and a pin 274 extending through the lever body 273 and the elongated slot 272 to engage the second lever 268 with the first lever 266. When the second clutch disc 253 disengages from the first clutch disc 252, the elongated slot 272 allows limited movement of the first lever 266 relative to the second lever 268, allowing the plunger 262 to return to its initial position after being pulled.

[0231] As an example, Figure 31The manual release assembly 236 is shown after the plunger 262 is pulled to disengage the second clutch disc 253 from the first clutch disc 252, and then the plunger 262 is released such that the second clutch disc 253 moves toward the first clutch disc 252 (but remains disengaged from the first clutch disc 252) due to the biasing member 265, causing the plunger to return to its initial position after moving a first distance. The elongated slot 272 allows the first lever 266 to... Figure 31 The position of the piston 262 is further rotated relative to the second lever 268, thereby allowing the piston 262 to move further down the lower plate 53, while the second lever 268, clutch release fork 263 and second clutch plate 253 remain in their original positions.

[0232] Manual release assembly 236 includes a brake release lever assembly 275 configured to cause shaft assembly 232 to move brake element 318 toward a released brake position, such as... Figure 23A , Figure 23B and Figure 24 As shown. The brake release lever assembly 275 can suppress the movement of the shaft assembly 232, allowing the braking system 50 to operate without strong force or hard stop. The brake release lever assembly 275 is connected to the shaft assembly 232 and the lower plate 53 of the base 31 of the patient support device 10.

[0233] Brake release lever assembly 275 includes a first brake release lever 276 and at least one first biasing member 277, such as Figure 23A and Figure 24 As shown. A first brake release lever 276 is pivotally connected to the lower plate 53 of the base 31 and the second shaft 243 of the shaft assembly 232, and is configured to rotate about the axis of the first brake release lever. A first biasing member 277 is connected to the first brake release lever 276 and the lower plate 53 of the base 31 to bias the first brake release lever 276 such that the first brake release lever 276 causes the shaft assembly 232 to move the brake element 318 toward the brake release position. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one first biasing member 277 includes two biasing members. In embodiments with only one first biasing member 277, the aforementioned first biasing member 277 may be an omitted biasing member. Figure 23AAs shown, when the clutch assembly 234 is in the engaged position and the braking element 318 is in the braking position, the biasing member 277 causes the first brake release lever 276 to move the shaft assembly 232 toward the direction of unlocking the braking element 318; however, the biasing member 277 cannot overcome the linear actuator 218, so the braking element 318 remains braked. In response to the manual release 236 moving the clutch assembly 234 to the disengaged position, the shaft assembly 232 is operatively disengaged from the linear actuator 218, and the biasing member 277 causes the first brake release lever 276, and subsequently the shaft assembly 232, to move the braking element 318 to the unlocked position to unlock the casters 33, 35.

[0234] The brake release lever assembly 275 may include a second brake release lever 278 and a second biasing member 279 to suppress or regulate the speed of the first brake release lever 276 during a manual release event. This prevents the first brake release lever 276 from abruptly stopping or rapidly decelerating. The second brake release lever 278 is pivotally connected to the lower plate 53 of the base 31 to rotate about its axis. The second brake release lever 278 is connected to the first brake release lever 276 for limited relative movement between the two levers 276, 278. The second biasing member 279 is connected to the lower plate 53 of the base 31 and the second brake release lever 278 to suppress movement of the first brake release lever 276. The second brake release lever 278 and the second biasing member 279 bias the first brake release lever 276 in the opposite direction to the first biasing member 277. Compared to at least one first biasing member 277, the second biasing member 279 applies a smaller torque to the first brake release lever 276 via the second brake release lever 278.

[0235] The first brake release lever 276 is formed to include a first curved elongated groove 280, and the second brake release lever 278 is formed to include a second curved elongated groove 281, as shown below. Figure 23A , Figure 23B and Figure 24 As shown. The brake release lever assembly 275 also includes a first pin 283 passing through the first curved elongated slot 280 and the second brake release lever 278, and a second pin 284 passing through the second curved elongated slot 281 and extending into the lower plate 53 of the base 31. The first pin 283 extends through a circular hole in the second brake release lever 278, such that the pin 283 moves with the second brake release lever 278.

[0236] like Figure 23AAs shown, when the braking element 318 is locked, at least one first biasing member 277 causes the first brake release lever 276 to unlock the braking element 318 as described above. A second biasing member 279 causes the second brake release lever 278 to move in the opposite direction to the first brake release lever 276 until the second pin 284 engages the end of the second curved elongated groove 281 to prevent further movement of the second brake release lever 278. The first pin 283 is located between the ends of the first curved elongated groove 280, allowing the first brake release lever 276 to rotate a limited amount relative to the second brake release lever 278 before engaging it.

[0237] When the brake element 318 is in the process of moving from locked to unlocked due to manual release, the brake release lever assembly 275 moves the brake element 318 in a restraining manner, such as... Figure 23B As shown. In response to the manual release assembly 236 disengaging the clutch assembly 234, at least one biasing member 277 rotates the first brake release lever 276 (exemplarily clockwise) to cause the rod 238 of the shaft assembly 232 to move laterally and unlock the brake element 318. The first brake release lever 276 rotates a certain amount relative to the second brake release lever 278 until the first pin 283 reaches the end of the slot 280 and engages the first brake release lever 276. Thereafter, due to the second biasing member 279, the second brake release lever 278 applies resistance or a restraining force to the first brake release lever 276. In other words, the reaction force of the second biasing member 279 slows the rotation of the first brake release lever 276, thereby reducing the speed of the rod 238. Figure 23B As shown, during the initial timing of the unlocking movement, the second pin 284 may be located near the first end of the second slot 281.

[0238] When the braking element 318 is in such a state Figure 24 In the unlocked position, the first brake release lever 276 is biased counterclockwise. The first pin 283 engages the first brake release lever 276, causing the second brake release lever 278 to exert a reaction force on the first brake release lever 276 from the second biasing member 279. Furthermore, the force of the second biasing member 279 is less than the force of at least one first biasing member 277 and is configured to inhibit movement of the first brake release lever 276. In response to the brake element 318 being in the unlocked position, the second pin 284 may be partially positioned between the ends of the second slot 281.

[0239] When the braking system 50 is in the braking position, in order to manually release the casters 33 and 35 from the brake actuator 212, the user pulls the plunger 262, as follows: Figure 29 and Figure 30As shown. In response to the pullout of plunger 262, coupling link 267 rotates the first lever 266 about axis 270. Pin 274 engages the second lever 268, causing the second lever 268 to rotate about axis 271 and move the clutch fork 263 to move the second clutch disc 253 away from the first clutch disc 252 along clutch axis 235, as shown. Figure 32 As shown. The second clutch plate 253 separates from the first clutch plate 252, causing the protrusion 255 to move out of the recess 254. Therefore, the linear actuator 218 is operatively disengaged from the shaft assembly 232. The force of at least one biasing member 277 causes the first brake release lever 276 to rotate and move the rod 238 of the shaft assembly 232 to unlock the brake element 318. Optional second brake release lever 278 and second biasing member 279 inhibit the movement of the first brake release lever 276. Due to the misalignment of the protrusion 255 and the recess 254, the movement of the rod 238 causes the clutch shaft 250 and the second clutch plate 253 to rotate about the clutch axis 235, as... Figure 30 As shown.

[0240] In response to the user releasing the plunger 262, a biasing member disposed around the plunger 262 causes the plunger 262 to move back to its initial position, such as Figure 31 As shown. Therefore, the first lever 266 and the second lever partially rotate, allowing the biasing member 265 to push the second clutch plate 253 towards the first clutch plate 252. However, the protrusion 255 of the second clutch plate 253 is not aligned with the groove 254, causing the second clutch plate 253 to be not in an engaged arrangement with the first clutch plate 252, as... Figure 31 As shown. This contact prevents the manual release component 236 from fully returning to its original position. Figure 29 The initial inactive arrangement. In an exemplary embodiment, when the clutch plates 252, 253 remain in contact but disengaged, without rotating the second lever 268, the slot 272 allows the plunger 262 to move further to its initial position by allowing the first lever 266 to rotate about the axis 270 by an additional limited amount.

[0241] To engage clutch plates 252, 253 after a manual release event to allow for energized braking and de-energization, the linear actuator 218 retracts in response to user input to the remote control 60 or panel 61, causing the first clutch plate 252 to rotate relative to the second clutch plate 253 about the clutch axis 235 until the protrusion 255 is circumferentially aligned with the recess 254. Once aligned, the biasing member 265 automatically causes the second clutch plate 253 to move axially relative to the clutch axis 235 to the engaged position, in which the protrusion 255 is received in the recess 254, as... Figure 29As shown in the diagram, plunger 262, first lever 266, and second lever 268 return to their initial positions and are ready for another manual release. Once clutch assembly 234 re-engages, any further retraction or extension of linear actuator 218 will cause braking element 318 to be energized and locked or unlocked.

[0242] Reference Figures 35-38 The following describes a method for synchronizing the braking system 50 and braking element 318 of the patient support device 10. Fasteners 248 passing through the first caster brake link 244 and the second caster brake link 245 are loosened, moving the first caster brake link 244 to a predetermined position to unlock the first braking element 318 of the caster 35. The second caster brake link 245 is moved relative to the first caster brake link 244 to a predetermined position to unlock the second braking element 318 of the caster 33, as follows. Figure 24 As shown.

[0243] The relative movement of the first caster wheel brake link 244 and the second caster wheel brake link 245 away from a predetermined position is temporarily restricted. In an exemplary embodiment, the set screw 286 is tightened and used to temporarily restrict the rotation of the hexagonal bolt 287 to prevent movement of the first caster wheel brake link 244 and the second caster wheel brake link 245. Figure 35 and Figure 36 As shown, the first set screw 286 is tightened relative to the lower plate 53 of the base 31 of the patient support device 10 to engage the hex bolt 287 of the first braking element 318, thereby preventing the hex bolt 287 from rotating and holding the first caster brake linkage 244 in a predetermined position. The second set screw 286 is tightened relative to the base 31 of the patient support device 10 to engage the hex bolt 287 of the second braking element 318, thereby preventing the hex bolt 287 from rotating and holding the second braking element 318 in a predetermined position.

[0244] With the linear actuator 218 in the retracted position, a force is applied to the actuator mount 216 to move it away from caster 35 and toward the other caster 33. A slot 59 formed in the lower plate 53 of the base 31 allows the actuator mount 216 to move relative to the lower plate 53. Then, when a force is applied to the actuator mount 216, the actuator mount 216 is secured to the lower plate 53 of the base 31 of the patient support device 10 by tightening the fastener 222, as... Figure 37 As shown. In an exemplary embodiment, the set screw 224 extends through the base 31 of the patient support device 10 and engages the actuator mount 216 to apply force and move the actuator mount 216 away from the caster 35.

[0245] When the first and second brake elements 318 remain unlocked due to the set screw 286, force is applied to the first caster brake link 244 and the second caster brake link 245 to move the first caster brake link 244 away from the second caster brake link 245. Specifically, rotating the cam 246 causes the washer 247 to engage the first caster brake link 244, thus moving the first caster brake link 244 away from the second caster brake link 245. Figure 35 As shown.

[0246] While the force of the cam 246 is still applied to the first caster brake link 244 and the second caster brake link 245, the first caster brake link 244 is fixed to the second caster brake link 245 by tightening other fasteners 248, so that they can move together. After the first brake link 244 and the second brake link 245 are fixed together via the fasteners 248, the set screw 286 disengages from its engagement with the hex bolt 287 to release the restriction on the movement of the first caster brake link 244 and the second caster brake link 245. Thus, the first caster brake link 244 and the second caster brake link 245 can move freely together between the locked and unlocked positions to lock and unlock the brake element 318. The set screw 224 can remain in place or rotate away from the mounting base 216.

[0247] For purposes of illustration and description, the foregoing description of various embodiments and principles of the invention has been presented. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, while several inventive aspects and principles have been presented, they do not need to be used in combination, and various combinations of inventive aspects and principles are possible based on the various embodiments provided above. Therefore, the foregoing description is intended to include all possible alternatives, modifications, aspects, combinations, principles, and variations discussed or suggested herein, as well as all other contents falling within the principles, spirit, and broad scope of the various possible inventions disclosed herein and defined by the claims.

[0248] Embodiments of the present invention can be described with reference to the following numbered clauses:

[0249] 1. A patient support device, comprising:

[0250] Support base;

[0251] A first lifting column and a second lifting column spaced apart from the first lifting column, the first and second lifting columns being supported by a support base; and

[0252] A patient support extends between and connects to a first lifting column and a second lifting column, and the patient support is rotatable about an axis extending between the first and second lifting columns.

[0253] 1.1 The patient support device according to Clause 1, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the height of the first lifting column and the height of the second lifting column are adjustable to position the axis in a horizontal orientation above the floor below the support base, with a vertical distance between them equal to or less than 900 mm.

[0254] 2. The patient support device pursuant to Clause 1.1, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the first lifting column includes at least three telescopic sections and an actuator configured to adjust the height of the first lifting column, and the second lifting column includes at least three telescopic sections and an actuator configured to adjust the height of the second lifting column.

[0255] 3. The patient support device as described in Clause 2, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the height of the first lifting column and the height of the second lifting column are adjustable to position the axis horizontally above the floor with a vertical distance equal to or less than 800 mm.

[0256] 4. The patient support device as described in Clause 1.1, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the height of the first lifting column and the height of the second lifting column are adjustable to position the axis horizontally above the floor below the base, with a vertical distance of 1200 mm or greater.

[0257] 5. The patient support device according to Clause 1.1, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the height of the first lifting column and the height of the second lifting column are adjustable such that the ratio between the maximum vertical distance and the minimum vertical distance is greater than or equal to 1.5:1.

[0258] 6. The patient support device according to Clause 5, wherein the ratio is greater than or equal to 1.6:1.

[0259] 7. The patient support device as described in Clause 1.1, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the support base has a top surface that is vertically spaced from the floor at a height equal to or less than 250 mm.

[0260] 8. The patient support device according to Clause 7, wherein the height of the first lifting column and the height of the second lifting column are adjustable relative to the base, such that the ratio between the height of the axis from the floor and the height of the base from the floor in the horizontal orientation varies between at least 3.5:1 and 5:1.

[0261] 9. The patient support device pursuant to Clause 1.1, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the height of the first lifting column and the height of the second lifting column are adjustable relative to the support base so that the axis is tilted to be non-parallel to the floor.

[0262] 10. The patient support device according to Clause 1 or 1.1, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further includes casters coupled to the base and configured to move the patient support device relative to the floor, and an electric actuator coupled to the base and configured to move the casters between a released braking position and a braking position.

[0263] 11. The patient support device according to Clause 10 further includes a light system configured to display light indicating that the casters are in a braked position or a released position.

[0264] 12. The patient support device according to Clause 11, wherein the light system is configured to illuminate the floor with light.

[0265] 13. The patient support device according to Clause 11 or 12, wherein in response to the casters being in the released braking position, the light is a first color; and in response to the casters being in the braking position, the light is a second color different from the first color.

[0266] 14. The patient support device as described in Clause 1 or 1.1, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further includes an accessory rail coupled to the first column.

[0267] 15. The patient support device according to Clause 14, wherein the accessory rail includes a first rail body extending laterally away from the first lifting column, and the first rail body is formed to define a first channel extending rearward into the first rail body and a second channel extending forward into the first rail body.

[0268] 16. The patient support device according to Clause 15, wherein the accessory rail includes a second rail body extending forward and backward from an end remote from the first rail body.

[0269] 17. The patient support device according to any one of Clauses 15 and 16, wherein the first guide rail body is formed to include an elongated groove extending through the first guide rail body and leading to a first channel and a second channel.

[0270] 18. The patient support device according to Clause 1 or 1.1, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further comprising an extension extending between and interconnecting the first base and the second base included in the support base, for moving the support base between an unfolded position and a folded position, wherein in the unfolded position the first base and the second base are separated by a first distance; and in the folded position the first base and the second base are separated by a second distance less than the first distance.

[0271] 19. The patient support device according to Clause 18, wherein the extension includes a first tube coupled to a first base, a second tube coupled to a second base and disposed within the first tube, and a locking unit, the second tube allowing retractable movement of the first and second tubes, the locking unit being configured to move between a locking arrangement and an unlocking arrangement, in which relative movement between the first and second tubes is prevented; and in the unlocking arrangement, relative movement between the first and second tubes is permitted to allow movement of the support base between a folded position and an unfolded position.

[0272] 20. The patient support device according to Clause 19, wherein the first tube includes a tube body and a strip connected to the tube body, and the locking unit is configured to selectively move the strip relative to the tube body of the first tube to apply a clamping force to the second tube and prevent relative movement between the first tube and the second tube.

[0273] 21. The patient support device according to Clause 20, wherein the tube body and the strip of the first tube are integrally formed.

[0274] 22. The patient support device according to clause 20 or 21, wherein the locking unit includes a first mounting plate coupled to the tube body, a second mounting plate coupled to the free end of the strip, and a pedal assembly configured to selectively move the second mounting plate relative to the first mounting plate to apply a clamping force of the strip to the second tube.

[0275] 23. The patient support device according to Clause 22, wherein the pedal assembly includes a pin coupled to a second mounting plate, a cam body pivotally coupled to the pin and engaging a first mounting plate, and a foot pedal coupled to the cam body and configured to rotate the cam body relative to the first mounting plate such that the pin moves the second plate toward or away from the first mounting plate.

[0276] 24. The patient support device according to Clause 1 or 1.1, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, includes a rotation indicator coupled to a first lifting column and configured to display information indicating the angle of rotation of the patient support member about an axis, the rotation indicator including a gauge rail and a pointer that moves relative to the gauge rail in response to rotation of the patient support member about the axis.

[0277] 25. The patient support device according to Clause 24, wherein the gauge guide is formed to define a pointer display opening and a guide groove for exposing a pointer to a user, the pointer including a pointer body extending into the guide groove for sliding along the guide groove and a marker coupled to the pointer body, the marker being configured such that at least a portion of the marker is visible to the user through the pointer display opening.

[0278] 26. The patient support device according to Clause 25, wherein the rotation indicator further includes a sliding rod configured to rotate about an axis, the sliding rod engaging with a pointer such that the pointer moves in a guide groove in response to rotation of the patient support about the axis to indicate to the user the angle of rotation of the patient support device about the axis.

[0279] 27. The patient support device according to Clause 26, wherein a sliding rod extends from a first end to a second end in a cantilever relationship, the first end being connected to a first lifting column and configured to rotate in response to rotation of the patient support member, and the second end extending into a pointer body such that the pointer body slides freely along the sliding rod as the sliding rod causes the pointer body to move in a gauge slot.

[0280] 28. The patient support device according to any one of Clauses 24-27, wherein a rotary indicator is coupled to the top surface of the first lifting column such that the gauge guide and markings are visible to a user looking down from the top surface of the first lifting column.

[0281] 29. The patient support device according to Clause 1 or 1.1, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, further includes a controller, the controller including a processor and a storage device, the storage device including instructions executable by the processor to move a first lifting column and a second lifting column from a first arrangement to a second arrangement, wherein in the first arrangement a first axis of the first lifting column coupled to the patient support is at a first height and a second axis of the second lifting column coupled to the patient support is at a second height different from the first height; and in the second arrangement the first axis is at a third height and the second axis is at a third height.

[0282] 30. The patient support device according to Clause 29, wherein the third height is between the first height and the second height.

[0283] 31. The patient support device according to Clause 30, wherein the third height is approximately midway between the first height and the second height.

[0284] 32. The patient support device according to any one of Clauses 29-31, wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, further cause the first and second lifting columns to rotate the patient support member about an axis to a predetermined direction relative to the lifting system.

[0285] 33. The patient support device according to Clause 32, wherein the predetermined orientation is a zero-degree position, in which the patient support is configured to orient the patient supported thereon in an upward or downward arrangement.

[0286] 34. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 29-33, wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, further cause the first lifting column to move the first axis from a first height to a third height and simultaneously cause the second lifting column to move the second axis from a second height to a third height.

[0287] 35. A patient support device, comprising:

[0288] The support base includes a first base and a second base spaced apart from the first base;

[0289] A lifting system includes a first lifting column connected to a first base and a second lifting column connected to a second base, the first and second lifting columns being configured to rise and fall independently relative to a supporting base; and

[0290] An extension extends between and interconnects the first and second bases, serving to move the support base between an unfolded position and a folded position. In the unfolded position, the first and second bases are separated by a first distance; in the folded position, the first and second bases are separated by a second distance less than the first distance.

[0291] The extension includes a first tube connected to a first base, a second tube connected to a second base and disposed within the first tube to allow retractable movement of the first and second tubes, and a locking unit configured to move between a locking arrangement and an unlocking arrangement. In the locking arrangement, relative movement between the first and second tubes is prevented; in the unlocking arrangement, relative movement between the first and second tubes is allowed to allow the support base to move between a folded position and an unfolded position.

[0292] The first tube includes a tube body and a strip connected to the tube body. The locking unit is configured to selectively move the strip relative to the tube body of the first tube to apply a clamping force to the second tube and prevent relative movement between the first tube and the second tube.

[0293] 36. The patient support device described in Clause 35, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the tube body and the strip of the first tube are integrally formed.

[0294] 37. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 35 and 36, wherein the locking unit includes a first mounting plate coupled to the tube body, a second mounting plate coupled to the free end of the strip, and a pedal assembly configured to selectively move the second mounting plate relative to the first mounting plate to apply a clamping force of the strip to the second tube.

[0295] 38. The patient support device according to Clause 37, wherein the pedal assembly includes a pin coupled to a second mounting plate, a cam body pivotally coupled to the pin and engaging a first mounting plate, and a foot pedal coupled to the cam body and configured to rotate the cam body relative to the first mounting plate such that the pin moves the second plate toward or away from the first mounting plate.

[0296] 39. The patient support device according to any one of Clauses 25-38 further includes a patient support member extending between and connected thereto between the first and second lifting columns, the patient support member being rotatable about an axis extending between the first and second lifting columns.

[0297] 40. A patient support device, comprising:

[0298] The support base includes a first base and a second base spaced apart from the first base;

[0299] A lifting system includes a first lifting column connected to a first base and a second lifting column connected to a second base, the first and second lifting columns being configured to rise and fall independently relative to a supporting base; and

[0300] The accessory rail is connected to the first lifting column and is configured to support an accessory component that is removably connected to the accessory rail.

[0301] 41. The patient support device according to Clause 40, any other clause, or any combination of clauses, wherein the accessory rail includes a first rail body extending laterally away from the first lifting column, and the first rail body is formed to define a first channel extending rearwardly into the first rail body and a second channel extending forward into the first rail body.

[0302] 42. The patient support device according to Clause 41, wherein the accessory rail includes a second rail body extending forward and backward from an end remote from the first rail body.

[0303] 43. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 41 and 42, wherein the first guide rail body is formed to include an elongated groove extending through the first guide rail body and leading to a first channel and a second channel.

[0304] 44. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 40-43, wherein the first lifting column includes a first retractable section and a second retractable section, the first retractable section being connected to a first base, and an accessory rail being connected to one side of the second retractable section.

[0305] 45. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 40-44 further includes a patient support member extending between and connected thereto between the first lifting column and the second lifting column, the patient support member being rotatable about an axis extending between the first lifting column and the second lifting column.

[0306] 46. ​​A patient support device, comprising:

[0307] The support base includes a first base and a second base spaced apart from the first base. The first base includes a caster with a wheel and a braking element, and an electric actuator operatively connected to the braking element of the caster to move the braking element between a braking position that prevents rotation of the wheel and a release position that allows rotation of the wheel.

[0308] A lifting system includes a first lifting column connected to a first base and a second lifting column connected to a second base, the first and second lifting columns being configured to rise and fall independently relative to a supporting base; and

[0309] A caster brake status indicator system that illuminates light to indicate whether the brake element is in the released or braked position.

[0310] 47. The patient support device as described in Clause 46, wherein the caster brake status indicator system illuminates light onto the floor beneath the patient support device.

[0311] 48. The patient support device according to clause 46 or 47, wherein in response to the braking system being in the released position, the light is a first color; and in response to the braking system being in the braking position, the light is a second color different from the first color.

[0312] 49. A patient support device, comprising:

[0313] Support base;

[0314] The lifting system includes a first lifting column connected to a support base and a second lifting column spaced apart from the first lifting column and connected to the support base, the first lifting column and the second lifting column being configured to rise and fall independently relative to the support base;

[0315] A patient support extends between and connects to the first and second lifting columns to move vertically therewith; the patient support is rotatable about an axis extending between the first and second lifting columns; and

[0316] A rotary indicator, coupled to the first lifting column and configured to display information indicating the angle of rotation of the patient support about an axis, includes a gauge rail and a pointer that moves relative to the gauge rail in response to the rotation of the patient support about the axis.

[0317] 50. The patient support device according to Clause 49, wherein the gauge guide is formed to define a pointer display opening and a guide groove for exposing a pointer to a user, the pointer including a pointer body extending into the guide groove for sliding along the guide groove and a marker coupled to the pointer body, the marker being configured such that at least a portion of the marker is visible to the user through the pointer display opening.

[0318] 51. The patient support device according to Clause 50, wherein the rotation indicator further includes a sliding rod configured to rotate about an axis, the sliding rod engaging with a pointer such that the pointer moves in a guide groove in response to rotation of the patient support member about the axis to indicate to the user the angle of rotation of the patient support device about the axis.

[0319] 52. The patient support device according to Clause 51, wherein a sliding rod extends from a first end to a second end in a cantilever relationship, the first end being connected to a first lifting column and configured to rotate in response to rotation of the patient support member, and the second end extending into a pointer body such that the pointer body slides freely along the sliding rod as the sliding rod causes the pointer body to move in a gauge slot.

[0320] 53. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 49-52, wherein a rotary indicator is coupled to the top surface of the first lifting column such that the gauge guide and markings are visible to a user looking down from the top surface of the first lifting column.

[0321] 54. A patient support device, comprising:

[0322] The support base includes a first base and a second base spaced apart from the first base;

[0323] The lifting system includes a first lifting column connected to a first base and a second lifting column connected to a second base, the first and second lifting columns being configured to rise and fall independently relative to the supporting base;

[0324] A patient support extends and connects to the first axis of the first lifting column and the second axis of the second lifting column for vertical movement therefrom; the patient support is rotatable about an axis extending through the first axis of the first lifting column and the second axis of the second lifting column; and

[0325] The controller includes a processor and a storage device, the storage device including instructions executable by the processor to move a first lifting column and a second lifting column from a first arrangement to a second arrangement, wherein in the first arrangement the first axis is at a first height and the second axis is at a second height different from the first height; and in the second arrangement the first axis is at a third height and the second axis is at a third height.

[0326] 55. The patient support device according to Clause 54, wherein the third height is between the first height and the second height.

[0327] 56. The patient support device according to Clause 55, wherein the third height is approximately midway between the first height and the second height.

[0328] 57. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 54-56, wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, further cause the first and second lifting columns to rotate the patient support member about an axis to a predetermined direction relative to the lifting system.

[0329] 58. The patient support device according to Clause 57, wherein the predetermined orientation is a zero-degree position, in which the patient support is configured to orient the patient supported thereon in an upward or downward arrangement.

[0330] 59. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 54-58, wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, further cause the first lifting column to move the first axis from a first height to a third height and simultaneously cause the second lifting column to move the second axis from a second height to a third height.

[0331] 60. A method of operating a patient support device, the method comprising:

[0332] The first lifting column moves to a first height relative to the support base to which the first lifting column is connected;

[0333] The second lifting column is moved to a second height different from the first height relative to the support base connected to the second lifting column, so that the patient support member connected to the first and second lifting columns is tilted relative to the floor; and

[0334] Each of the first and second lifting columns moves simultaneously to a third height different from the first and second heights, so that the patient support is leveled relative to the floor.

[0335] 61. The method according to Clause 60 further includes rotating the patient support from a first angle to a second angle different from the first angle about an axis extending through the first and second lifting columns.

[0336] 62. The method according to Clause 61 further includes rotating the patient support from the second angle to a third angle corresponding to the zero-degree position, in which the patient support is configured to orient the patient supported thereon in an upward or downward arrangement.

[0337] 63. The method according to Clause 62, wherein rotating the patient support from the second angle to the third angle is performed simultaneously with moving each of the first and second lifting columns to the third height.

[0338] 64. A patient support device, comprising:

[0339] A caster includes a support rod, a wheel connected to the support rod for rotation about a wheel axis relative to the support rod, and a braking element movable from a released braking position that allows the wheel to rotate relative to the support rod to a braking position that prevents the wheel from rotating relative to the support rod.

[0340] A brake actuator, including a mounting base and a linear actuator coupled to the mounting base and movable relative to the mounting base between a retracted position and an extended position, and

[0341] A linkage configured to transmit motion of a linear actuator to a braking element to move the braking element between a release position and a braking position, the linkage including a shaft assembly coupled to the braking element, a clutch assembly configured to rotate the linear actuator relative to a mounting base about a clutch axis to move the braking element between the release position and the braking position via the shaft assembly, and a manual release assembly coupled to the clutch assembly and the shaft assembly and configured to operably disengage the linear actuator from the shaft assembly and bias the shaft assembly in response to manual activation by a user to move the braking element to the release position.

[0342] 65. The patient support device according to Clause 64, wherein the clutch assembly is movable between an engaged arrangement and a disengaged arrangement, wherein in the engaged arrangement the clutch is rotatable via a linear actuator to transmit motion from the linear actuator through the shaft assembly to a braking element to move the braking element between a released braking position and a braking position, and in the disengaged arrangement the shaft assembly is operatively disengaged from the linear actuator.

[0343] 66. The patient support device according to clause 64 or 65, wherein the clutch assembly includes a clutch shaft rotatably rotatable about a clutch axis and coupled to a shaft assembly for movement therewith, a first clutch disc coupled to a linear actuator and configured to selectively rotate about the clutch axis relative to the clutch shaft, and a second clutch disc coupled for rotation to the clutch shaft and movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, wherein in the engaged position the second clutch disc is rotatably coupled to the first clutch disc such that the clutch assembly transmits motion from the linear actuator to the shaft assembly via the first clutch disc, the second clutch disc, and the clutch shaft, and in the disengaged position the second clutch disc is rotatably disengaged from the first clutch disc such that the second clutch disc and the shaft assembly are freely movable relative to the first clutch disc and the linear actuator.

[0344] 67. The patient support device according to Clause 66, wherein the second clutch disc is axially movable relative to the clutch shaft along the clutch axis between an engaged position and a disengaged position.

[0345] 68. The patient support device according to clause 66 or 67, wherein one of the first clutch plate and the second clutch plate is formed as a recess defined therein, and the other of the first clutch plate and the second clutch plate is formed to include a protrusion that extends into the recess in response to the second clutch plate being in an engaged position to rotatably engage the first clutch plate and the second clutch plate, and is spaced apart from the recess in response to the second clutch plate being in a disengaged position to rotatably disengage the second clutch plate from the first clutch plate.

[0346] 69. The patient support device according to Clause 65, wherein the clutch further includes a key that interlocks the second clutch disc with the clutch shaft while allowing the second clutch disc to slide axially relative to the clutch shaft.

[0347] 70. The patient support device according to any one of Clauses 64 to 69, wherein the manual release assembly includes a plunger movable relative to the mounting base, a clutch release fork coupled to a clutch assembly, and a clutch release link coupled to the plunger and the clutch release fork and configured to move the clutch assembly and operably disengage the linear actuator from the shaft assembly in response to a user pulling the plunger.

[0348] 71. The patient support device according to Clause 70, wherein the clutch release fork is engaged with a second clutch plate and, in response to a user pulling a plunger, selectively moves the second clutch plate axially away from the first clutch plate to rotatably separate the first clutch plate from the second clutch plate.

[0349] 72. The patient support device according to Clause 71, wherein the clutch release fork is biased to cause the second clutch plate to engage with the first clutch plate.

[0350] 73. The patient support device according to clauses 70 to 72, wherein the clutch release link includes a first rod pivotally connected to a plunger and rotatable about a first rod axis, and a second rod connected to the first rod and the clutch release fork and rotatable about a second rod axis, such that pulling the plunger causes the first rod to rotate the second rod about the second rod axis, and moves the clutch release fork and the second clutch disc away from the first clutch disc.

[0351] 74. The patient support device according to Clause 73, wherein the first rod is formed to include an elongated slot, and the second rod includes a rod body and a pin extending through the rod body and the elongated slot to engage the second rod with the first rod, wherein the elongated slot allows limited movement of the first rod relative to the second rod to allow the plunger to return to its initial position after being pulled, while the second clutch plate disengages from the first clutch plate.

[0352] 75. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 64 to 74, wherein the manual release assembly includes a brake release lever assembly connected to the shaft assembly and the base of the patient support device and configured to cause the shaft assembly to move the brake element to a released position.

[0353] 76. The patient support device according to Clause 75, wherein the brake release lever assembly includes a first brake release lever and a first biasing member, the first brake release lever being pivotally connected to a base and a shaft assembly and configured to rotate about an axis of the first brake release lever, the first biasing member being connected to the first brake release lever and the base to bias the first brake release lever such that the first brake release lever causes the shaft assembly to move the braking element to a released braking position.

[0354] 77. The patient support device according to Clause 76, wherein the brake release lever assembly further includes a second brake release lever and a second biasing member, the second brake release lever being pivotally connected to the base to rotate about a second brake release lever axis and connected to the first brake release lever, the second biasing member being connected to the base and the second brake release lever to cause the second brake release lever to inhibit movement of the first brake release lever.

[0355] 78. The patient support device according to Clause 77, wherein the first brake release lever includes a first curved elongated groove, the second brake release lever includes a second curved elongated groove, and the brake release lever assembly further includes a first pin extending through the first curved elongated groove and the second brake release lever, and a second pin extending through the second curved elongated groove and into the base.

[0356] 79. The patient support device according to claims 64 to 78 further includes a second caster having a second wheel and a second braking element movable between a released braking position and a braking position. The shaft assembly includes a first caster brake link coupled to the first braking element, a second caster brake link coupled to the second braking element and operably coupled to a linear actuator, and a cam coupled to one of the first and second caster brake links. The first caster brake link is selectively movable relative to the second caster brake link, and the cam is configured to engage with the other of the first and second caster brake links to selectively cause the first caster brake link away from the second caster brake link.

[0357] 80. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 64 to 79 further includes a caster brake status indicator system that illuminates light indicating that the braking element is in a released or braked position.

[0358] 81. The patient support device according to Clause 80, wherein the caster brake status indicator system illuminates light onto the floor beneath the patient support device.

[0359] 82. The patient support device according to Clause 81, wherein in response to the braking system being in the released position, the light is a first color; and in response to the braking system being in the braking position, the light is a second color different from the first color.

[0360] 83. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 64 to 81, wherein the brake actuator includes a travel stop fixed relative to the mounting base, the travel stop being configured to limit the maximum extension of the linear actuator.

[0361] 83.1. The patient support device according to any one of Clauses 64 to 83 further includes a support base connected to casters, a first lifting column and a second lifting column spaced apart from the first lifting column, the first and second lifting columns being supported by the support base, and a patient support member extending between and connected to the first and second lifting columns, the patient support member being rotatable about an axis extending between the first and second lifting columns.

[0362] 84. A method of operating a braking system on a patient support device, the method comprising:

[0363] The linear actuator extends to rotate the clutch about the axis and cause the shaft assembly to move the caster brake to the braking position and stop the caster wheel from rotating.

[0364] The first clutch disc of the clutch assembly disengages from the second clutch disc to operably disengage the shaft assembly from the linear actuator, and

[0365] The shaft assembly is automatically moved in response to disengaging the first clutch disc from the second clutch disc, thereby releasing the caster brake.

[0366] 85. The method according to Clause 84 further includes retracting the linear actuator to rotate the first clutch disc and move the second clutch disc to engage with the first clutch disc, so as to engage the first clutch disc with the second clutch disc after automatically moving the shaft assembly.

[0367] 86. The method according to clause 84 or 85, wherein disengaging the first clutch disc from the second clutch disc comprises moving a plunger operably engaged with the second clutch disc from a first position to a second position.

[0368] 87. The method according to Clause 86 further includes moving the plunger from the second position to the first position without engaging the second clutch disc with the first clutch disc before retracting the linear actuator.

[0369] 88. The method according to any one of Clauses 84 to 87 further includes engaging the linear actuator with a travel stop to prevent the linear actuator from extending to the fully extended position.

[0370] 89. A method for synchronizing the caster brake of a patient support device, the method comprising:

[0371] The first caster wheel brake linkage moves to the first predetermined position to unlock the first caster wheel brake.

[0372] The second caster brake linkage moves relative to the first caster brake linkage to a second predetermined position to unlock the second caster brake.

[0373] A first force is applied to the first and second caster wheel brake links to move the first caster wheel brake link away from the second caster wheel brake link, while the first and second caster wheel brakes remain unlocked.

[0374] The first caster brake link is fixed to the second caster brake link so that it moves with the second caster brake link, while the first force is applied to the first caster brake link.

[0375] 90. The method according to Clause 89, wherein the second caster brake link includes a shaft and a cam coupled to the shaft, and applying a first force to the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link includes engaging the first caster brake link with the cam such that the cam causes the first caster brake link to move away from the shaft.

[0376] 91. The method according to Clause 90, wherein the cam includes an eccentrically profiled washer engaging the first caster brake linkage and a fastener connecting the washer to the shaft.

[0377] 92. The method according to any one of clauses 89 to 91, wherein one of the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link is formed to define an elongated slot, and securing the first caster brake link to the second caster brake link comprises clamping the first caster brake link to the second caster brake link with a fastener extending through the elongated slot and the other of the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link.

[0378] 93. The method according to any one of clauses 89 to 92 further includes temporarily restricting the movement of the first caster brake link away from the first predetermined position after the first caster brake link has been moved to the first predetermined position and before the first force is applied to the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link.

[0379] 94. The method according to Clause 93 further includes, after connecting the first caster brake link to the second caster brake link, releasing the restriction on the movement of the first caster brake link away from the first predetermined position.

[0380] 95. The method according to any one of clauses 89 to 94, wherein the first caster brake link includes a first shaft and a first pivot connector pivotally connected to the first shaft and connected to a first caster brake, and the second caster brake link includes a second shaft and a second pivot connector pivotally connected to the second shaft and connected to a second caster brake.

[0381] 96. The method according to any one of clauses 89 to 95 further includes pivotally connecting the actuator to the actuator mount and operably connecting the actuator to the first caster brake linkage.

[0382] 97. The method according to Clause 96 further includes applying a second force to the actuator mount before applying a first force to the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link, to cause the actuator mount to move away from one of the first caster brakes and the second caster brake and toward the other of the first caster brakes and the second caster brake.

[0383] 98. The method according to Clause 97 further includes securing the actuator mount to the base of the patient support device before applying a first force to the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link.

[0384] 99. A patient support device, comprising:

[0385] A first caster and a second caster, the first caster including a first wheel configured to rotate about a first wheel axis and a first braking element movable from a released braking position allowing the first wheel to rotate about the first wheel axis to a braking position preventing the first wheel from rotating relative to the first wheel axis, the second caster including a second wheel configured to rotate about a second wheel axis and a second braking element movable from a released braking position allowing the second wheel to rotate about the second wheel axis to a braking position preventing the second wheel from rotating relative to the second wheel axis.

[0386] A brake actuator, including a mounting base and a linear actuator coupled to the mounting base and movable between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the mounting base, and

[0387] A linkage is configured to transmit motion of a linear actuator to a first braking element and a second braking element to move the first braking element and the second braking element between a release braking position and a braking position. The linkage includes a shaft assembly having a first caster brake link coupled to the first braking element, a second caster brake link coupled to the second braking element and operably coupled to the linear actuator, and a cam coupled to one of the first and second caster brake links. The first caster brake link is selectively movable relative to the second caster brake link. The cam is configured to engage with the other of the first and second caster brake links to selectively cause the first caster brake link away from the second caster brake link.

[0388] 100. The patient support device according to Clause 99, wherein the cam includes an eccentrically profiled washer engaging with the other of the first and second caster brake links, and a fastener connecting the washer to one of the first and second caster brake links.

[0389] 101. The patient support device according to clause 99 or 100, wherein one of the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link is formed to define an elongated slot, and the shaft assembly further includes a fastener extending through the elongated slot and into the other of the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link to connect the first caster brake link to the second caster brake link.

[0390] 102. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 99 to 101, wherein the first caster brake link includes a first shaft and a first fork pivotally connected to a first braking element, and the second caster brake link includes a second shaft and a second fork pivotally connected to a second braking element.

[0391] 103. The patient support device according to any one of clauses 99 to 102, wherein the first caster brake link and the second caster brake link are biased to move the braking element to the release position.

[0392] 104. The patient support device according to Clause 1, 1.1, 39, 45, 49 or 54, any other clause, or any other combination of clauses, further comprising a remote control detachably coupled to one of the first and second columns and a panel fixed to one of the first and second lifting columns, each of the remote control and the panel having a plurality of buttons thereon, the height of the first and second lifting columns being adjustable to position an axis in a horizontal orientation above the floor below the support base, with a vertical distance between them, the buttons of the remote control and the buttons of the panel being respectively configured to adjust the height of the first and second lifting columns and the rotation of the patient support member about the axis.

[0393] 105. The method according to Clause 60 or any of the preceding method clauses further includes adjusting the position of one of the first lifting column, the second lifting column, and the patient support in response to receiving a first input from a remote operator, and moving the position of one of the first lifting column, the second lifting column, and the patient support in response to receiving a second input from a panel fixed to one of the first lifting column and the second lifting column.

[0394] 106. A patient support device, comprising:

[0395] Support base;

[0396] A first lifting column and a second lifting column spaced apart from the first lifting column, the first and second lifting columns being supported by a support base;

[0397] A patient support extends between and connects to the first and second lifting columns, and the patient support is rotatable about an axis extending between the first and second lifting columns; and

[0398] The user interface includes a remote control with multiple buttons and a panel fixed to one of the first and second lifting columns and having multiple buttons, wherein the multiple buttons of the remote control and the multiple buttons of the panel are respectively configured to adjust one or more of the height of the first lifting column, the height of the second lifting column, and the rotation of the patient support about an axis.

[0399] 107. The patient support device according to Clause 64 further includes a support base, a first lifting column and a second lifting column spaced apart from the first lifting column, and a patient support member extending between and connected to the first and second lifting columns, the first and second lifting columns being supported by the support base, the patient support member being rotatable about an axis extending between the first and second lifting columns, the height of the first and second lifting columns being adjustable to position the axis horizontally above the floor below the support base, with a vertical distance equal to or less than 900 mm.

[0400] 108. The patient support device according to Clause 107 further includes a remote control detachably coupled to one of the first and second columns and a panel fixed to one of the first and second lifting columns, each of the remote control and the panel having a plurality of buttons thereon, the height of the first and second lifting columns being adjustable to position an axis in a horizontal orientation above the floor below the support base, with a vertical distance between them, the buttons of the remote control and the buttons of the panel being respectively configured to adjust the height of the first and second lifting columns and the rotation of the patient support member about the axis.

[0401] 109. The patient support device according to Clause 107 further includes an accessory rail connected to the first column.

Claims

1. A patient support device, comprising: A caster wheel includes a support rod, a wheel connected to the support rod for rotation about a wheel axis relative to the support rod, and a braking element movable from a released braking position that allows the wheel to rotate relative to the support rod to a braking position that prevents the wheel from rotating relative to the support rod; A brake actuator includes a mounting base and a linear actuator coupled to the mounting base and movable relative to the mounting base between a retracted position and an extended position, and A linkage configured to transmit motion of the linear actuator to the braking element to move the braking element between a released braking position and a braking position, the linkage including a shaft assembly coupled to the braking element, a clutch assembly configured to rotate the linear actuator relative to the mounting base about a clutch axis to move the braking element between the released braking position and the braking position via the shaft assembly, and a manual release assembly coupled to the clutch assembly and the shaft assembly and configured to operably disengage the linear actuator from the shaft assembly and bias the shaft assembly in response to manual activation by a user to move the braking element to the released braking position.

2. The patient support device of claim 1, wherein the clutch assembly is movable between an engaged arrangement and a disengaged arrangement, wherein in the engaged arrangement the clutch is rotatable via the linear actuator to transmit motion from the linear actuator through the shaft assembly to the braking element to move the braking element between a released braking position and a braking position, and in the disengaged arrangement the shaft assembly is operatively disengaged from the linear actuator.

3. The patient support device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the clutch assembly includes a clutch shaft rotatably rotatable about the clutch axis and coupled to the shaft assembly for movement therewith, a first clutch disc coupled to the linear actuator and configured to selectively rotate about the clutch axis relative to the clutch shaft, and a second clutch disc coupled for rotation to the clutch shaft and movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, wherein in the engaged position the second clutch disc is rotatably coupled to the first clutch disc such that the clutch assembly transmits motion from the linear actuator to the shaft assembly via the first clutch disc, the second clutch disc, and the clutch shaft, and in the disengaged position the second clutch disc is rotatably disengaged from the first clutch disc such that the second clutch disc and the shaft assembly are free to move relative to the first clutch disc and the linear actuator.

4. The patient support device according to claim 3, wherein the second clutch disc is axially movable relative to the clutch shaft along the clutch axis between the engaged position and the disengaged position.

5. The patient support device of claim 3, wherein one of the first clutch plate and the second clutch plate is formed as a recess defined therein, and the other of the first clutch plate and the second clutch plate is formed to include a protrusion that extends into the recess in response to the second clutch plate being in the engaged position to rotatably engage the first clutch plate and the second clutch plate, and is spaced apart from the recess in response to the second clutch plate being in the disengaged position to rotatably disengage the second clutch plate from the first clutch plate.

6. The patient support device of claim 2, wherein the clutch further comprises a key that interlocks the second clutch disc with the clutch shaft while allowing the second clutch disc to slide axially relative to the clutch shaft.

7. The patient support device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the manual release assembly includes a plunger movable relative to the mounting base, a clutch release fork coupled to the clutch assembly, and a clutch release link, the clutch release link being coupled to the plunger and the clutch release fork and configured to, in response to a user pulling the plunger, cause the clutch release fork to move the clutch assembly and operably disengage the linear actuator from the shaft assembly.

8. The patient support device of claim 7, wherein the clutch release fork is coupled to the second clutch disc and, in response to a user pulling the plunger, selectively moves the second clutch disc axially away from the first clutch disc to rotatably separate the first clutch disc from the second clutch disc.

9. The patient support device of claim 8, wherein the clutch release fork is biased to cause the second clutch plate to engage with the first clutch plate.

10. The patient support device of claim 7, wherein the clutch release link comprises a first rod pivotally connected to the plunger and rotatable about a first rod axis, and a second rod connected to the first rod and the clutch release fork and rotatable about a second rod axis, such that pulling the plunger causes the first rod to rotate the second rod about the second rod axis and moves the clutch release fork and the second clutch disc away from the first clutch disc.

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