Articulating Arm Electromagnetic Brakes for Stable Medical Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ceiling-mounted medical service systems lack quieter, stronger, and more reliable braking systems, and require simpler and safer installation methods without increasing weight or footprint, while also facilitating multi-dimensional leveling and modular components.
Innovation Solution
The system employs electromagnetic brake assemblies with ring-shaped permanent magnets and coil systems for controlled rotation, combined with a modular design featuring articulating arms and couplers for easy assembly and adjustment, allowing for multi-directional movement and reduced maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional braking systems are used in ceiling-mounted medical service systems, then the system structure is simpler, but the braking performance is weaker and less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical braking systems with electromagnetic brake assemblies that use electromagnetic fields to provide braking force. The electromagnetic brakes include permanent magnets and coil systems that generate magnetic fields to control rotation, eliminating the need for complex mechanical friction-based braking mechanisms while improving reliability and braking strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating principle of the braking system from mechanical friction to electromagnetic interaction. By using permanent magnets and electric coils to generate controlled magnetic fields, the system achieves stronger and more reliable braking performance through electromagnetic force parameters rather than mechanical contact parameters.
2Ease of operation
If modular design with articulating arms is used, then installation and maintenance become easier, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the medical service system into modular components including articulating arms, couplers, and electromagnetic brake assemblies. Each component can be independently installed, adjusted, and maintained. The articulating arms are segmented into multiple sections that can be assembled in sequence, simplifying installation while providing flexible positioning capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular articulating arm design incorporates universal couplers and standardized connection interfaces that can accommodate different configurations and service requirements. The same basic modular components can be assembled in various arrangements to suit different installation locations and clinical needs, reducing the variety of unique parts required.
3Measurement precision
If electromagnetic brake assemblies with permanent magnets and coils are used, then braking control precision is improved, but the weight of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses electromagnetic fields instead of mechanical forces to achieve braking control, allowing for precise control through electrical parameter adjustment. The electromagnetic brake assemblies use permanent magnets and coil systems where braking force can be precisely controlled by varying the electrical current, providing superior control precision compared to mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic brake assemblies are strategically positioned at specific joints of the articulating arms where braking control is most needed. The permanent magnets and coil systems are localized to these critical points, providing precise braking control only where required rather than throughout the entire system, thereby minimizing overall weight increase.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multi-dimensional leveling capability is added, then the adaptability of the system improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates multi-dimensional leveling capability through adjustable articulating arm joints that can be positioned in multiple directions. The electromagnetic brake assemblies enable dynamic adjustment and locking of the arms at various angles and positions, allowing the system to adapt to different installation configurations and maintain proper leveling across multiple dimensions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a stable, quieter, and more reliable braking system that simplifies installation and maintenance, enabling multi-dimensional leveling and repositioning while minimizing weight and footprint, ensuring safer operation and reduced risk of damage from accidental impacts.
Implementation Method 1
electromagnetic brake assemblies with ring-shaped permanent magnets and coil systems for controlled rotation
Implementation Method 2
electromagnetic brake assemblies with ring-shaped permanent magnets and coil systems for controlled rotation
Data Source
AI summary
A modular ceiling-mounted medical services system including a vertical column supported by an articulating arm assembly. Rotational joints connect the column to the lower arm, the lower arm to the upper arm, and the upper arm to the ceiling mount. Rotational movement at each of the joints is controlled by an electrically-released electromagnetic brake, and all of the brakes may be controlled by a switch panel on the column. Thus, the entire assembly is held in place until the switch is activated. Slight hand pressure is sufficient to operate the switch while simultaneously pushing or pulling the column into the desired position. The service lines that supply the outlets in the column all pass through large central openings in the brakes.