Adjustable Standing Platform With Wireless Foot Pedals for Surgical Ergonomics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgeons in operating theaters face challenges with fixed height standing platforms, unsecured and non-ergonomic foot pedals, and issues related to wired pedals, which affect their ability to maintain optimal positioning and control surgical instruments effectively.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable standing platform with wireless foot pedal controls that allows height adjustment and secure, ergonomic positioning, eliminating the need for wires by using a movable platform with removable foot pedal controllers in wireless communication with remote base units, and a flexible outer element that expands and contracts with the platform.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If fixed height standing platforms are used, then platform stability is improved, but surgeon adaptability to different heights and procedures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The platform height is made adjustable through an actuator mechanism that allows the platform to move between extended and retracted positions. This dynamic adjustment capability enables surgeons to adapt the platform height to their individual needs and different surgical procedures while maintaining stability when locked in position.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform's height parameter can be changed on-demand by the surgeon using foot pedals. The actuator mechanism modifies the platform's vertical position parameter, allowing adaptation to different surgeon heights and procedural requirements without compromising structural stability.
2Ease of operation
If foot pedals are placed on the platform, then surgical instrument control is improved, but platform surface area availability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The foot pedals are extracted from the traditional floor position and relocated to the platform surface. This extraction allows surgeons to control surgical instruments while standing on the platform, improving ease of operation. The pedals are positioned to minimize surface area occupation while remaining accessible to the surgeon's feet.
3Ease of operation
If wired foot pedals are used, then device control functionality is improved, but tripping hazards and operational safety deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting wires are extracted from the system by implementing wireless communication between the foot pedals and the surgical instruments. This eliminates tripping hazards and safety concerns associated with wires running across the operating floor while maintaining full device control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical wire connection system is replaced with a wireless communication system. The foot pedals communicate with surgical instruments through wireless signals, eliminating the need for physical wire connections and associated safety hazards.
4Ease of manufacture
If standard platform heights are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but surgeon comfort and operational effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing multiple fixed-height platforms for different surgeon sizes, a single platform design with dynamic height adjustment capability is created. The actuator mechanism allows the platform height to be adjusted to match individual surgeon preferences, improving comfort without requiring multiple platform variants.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform is designed with universal adaptability through height adjustment, allowing a single platform design to serve surgeons of various heights. The foot pedal control system provides multi-functionality, enabling both platform height adjustment and surgical instrument control from the same interface.
5Stability of the object's composition
If foot pedals occupy large platform surface area, then pedal stability is improved, but surgeon ergonomic positioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The foot pedals are designed with localized placement on the platform surface, positioned in areas that provide stability while maintaining ergonomic access for the surgeon. The pedal design concentrates the necessary control functionality in compact form factors that occupy minimal surface area.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a system and method for an adjustable standing platform for a person. The adjustable standing platform includes a base structured and arranged to be disposed upon a support surface with a movable platform disposed above and generally parallel to the base, the movable platform having at least one removable foot pedal controller providing at least a portion of a standing area, each removable foot pedal controller in wireless communication with at least one associated remote base unit. An actuator couples the movable platform to the base, the actuator structured and arranged to move the movable platform generally towards or away from the base. A flexible outer element substantially enclosing the adjustable standing platform, the flexible outer element structured and arranged to expand and contract as the movable platform moves relative to the base. An associated method of providing and using the adjustable standing platform is also provided.