Medical Equipment Carrier Handle for One-Hand Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing carrying devices with height-adjustable brackets and self-locking pneumatic springs require two hands for operation, as one hand is needed to swivel the device mount and the other to actuate the pushbutton to release the spring, which is inefficient, especially when combined with a supply unit for medical devices.
Innovation Solution
A carrying device with a handle at the supply unit that includes an electric release element connected to a transmission means, such as a pneumatic piston or solenoid valve, allowing one-hand operation by actuating the valve to release the self-locking pneumatic spring, eliminating the need for additional force and enabling ergonomic operation with the thumb.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a self-locking pneumatic spring with a manually actuated pushbutton is used, then the bracket can be positioned at a desired height, but two hands are required for operation (one to swivel the device mount and one to actuate the pushbutton)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the swiveling function and the height adjustment function into a single integrated operation. The release element is integrated into the handle, allowing both swiveling and releasing the pneumatic spring to be performed with one hand through a single rotational motion of the handle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a release element as an intermediary mechanism between the user's manual input and the pneumatic spring. This release element, when actuated by rotating the handle, triggers the valve to open and release the pneumatic spring, enabling one-hand operation while maintaining the self-locking function.
2Ease of operation
If a hydraulic system with a hydraulic line is used to release the pneumatic spring, then one-hand operation is enabled, but the system becomes suitable only for small pneumatic springs due to force transmission limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hydraulic system with a direct mechanical linkage system. The release element is mechanically connected to the valve through a linkage mechanism that translates the rotational motion of the handle into linear motion to open the valve. This mechanical substitution eliminates the force transmission limitations of hydraulic lines while enabling one-hand operation.
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
Enables one-hand operation of the height-adjustable bracket, simplifying the adjustment process and improving ergonomics, as the electric actuation of the valve abolishes the self-locking function without requiring special force, enhancing usability, especially in medical settings.
Implementation Method 1
an opposing force means in the form of a pneumatic spring is provided, which ensures that the height of the object being carried can be set in a predetermined position
Implementation Method 2
An electric release element is connected to the handle in one assembly unit. A transmission means for actuating the valve is operatively connected between the electric release element and the valve
Data Source
AI summary
A carrying device for medical devices provides simple adjustment operation. The carrying device has a height-adjustable bracket (1) designed in the form of a parallelogram cranking mechanism with a self-locking pneumatic spring (13). A supply unit (21) for medical devices is arranged at one end of the bracket (1). A handle (22) with an electric release element (23) is arranged at the supply unit (21). A valve, which releases the blocking function, is opened within the pneumatic spring (13) during the actuation of the release element (23).