Powered Bed Transport Controls for Safe Speed and Direction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient bed transport systems face challenges in controlling speed and direction, particularly in crowded areas, and require training to operate safely, posing risks to healthcare professionals.
Innovation Solution
A bed transport system with a drive system coupled to the bed frame, featuring vertical control arms and handles with switches to control direction, speed, and power application, allowing for easy and safe operation with minimal training, including a lockout switch for safety and optional features like navigation lights.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If push-pull type controls are used for bed transport, then the bed can be moved in forward and reverse directions, but the speed control becomes difficult and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical push-pull control system with an electrically-controlled drive system. The drive system uses an electric motor coupled to a drive wheel that contacts the floor, allowing precise electronic control of speed and direction. Switches on the control handle enable independent control of motor speed and direction, eliminating the difficulty of speed control and safety risks associated with manual push-pull mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If joystick assembly is used for controlling direction and speed, then precise control is achieved, but training and practice are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control functions into separate, clearly-labeled switches on the control handle. One switch controls motor speed while another controls direction, and a third controls power application. This segmentation makes the control system more intuitive and easier to operate without extensive training, as each switch has a dedicated function rather than requiring coordinated joystick manipulation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If powered drive system is added to the bed, then movement capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides powered movement in forward and reverse directions, enables precise speed control, and can be manually positioned by releasing the brake. The control handle integrates multiple switches for different functions, and the system can operate in both automated and manual modes, reducing overall system complexity through multi-functionality.
4Reliability
If vertical control handles are used, then operation safety is improved, but control mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional horizontal control handle design to a vertical orientation. The control handle extends vertically from the control arm, with switches arranged on the vertical handle. This inversion improves safety by preventing inadvertent activation and providing a more ergonomic grip, while the switch arrangement on the vertical handle keeps the control mechanism relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for a bed transport. The system may include a drive system configured to couple to a bed frame and to provide powered movement of the bed frame. The system may also include a substantially vertical control arm and a control handle coupled to the control arm. The system may also comprise a switch on the control handle, and the switch may be configured to control a function of the drive system.