Ceiling Patient Lift Receiving Module With Friction-Locking Door

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional receiving modules for patient lift systems are difficult to efficiently interchange motor units and lack enhanced safety features to secure the motor unit within the module.

Innovation Solution

A receiving module with a housing, a pivotable door, a slider element, and a counter support that allows for easy motor unit replacement and self-securing, featuring a friction point to lock the door to the track in the open position, preventing inadvertent unlocking.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional receiving modules are used, then the structure is simple, but the motor unit replacement is difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotor unit replacementVSAvoidreceiving module structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The receiving module is divided into distinct functional components: a housing structure, a door assembly with brake mechanism, and a motor unit interface. This segmentation allows the motor unit to be independently removed and replaced without affecting other components, enabling quick motor unit replacement while maintaining a manageable overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The door is pre-configured with a brake mechanism that automatically engages when the door is opened. This preliminary action of pre-positioning the brake ensures that the receiving module is automatically secured to the track before motor unit removal begins, eliminating the need for separate braking operations and simplifying the replacement process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If conventional receiving modules are used, then the structure is simple, but the motor unit interchangeability is inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotor unit interchangeabilityVSAvoidreceiving module structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The receiving module housing and door assembly are designed as universal components that can accommodate multiple different motor unit types. The standardized interface and mounting structure allow any motor unit meeting the specifications to be installed in the same receiving module, enabling efficient interchangeability across different motor units while using a single receiving module design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If conventional receiving modules are used, then safety features are minimal, but the structure is simpler

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotor unit securingVSAvoidreceiving module structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The brake mechanism is merged with the door assembly, so that the door serves dual functions: providing access to the motor unit and actuating the brake mechanism. When the door is opened, it automatically engages the brake to secure the receiving module to the track. This merging of functions enhances safety by ensuring the brake is always engaged when the door is open, without requiring separate brake actuators or complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The brake mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the door movement. As the door is opened during motor unit removal, the door's motion automatically engages the brake pads with the track, securing the receiving module without requiring external power or manual braking action. This self-service braking enhances reliability while avoiding complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Loss of time

If motor unit replacement is simplified, then the replacement time is reduced, but the risk of inadvertent unlocking increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotor unit replacement timeVSAvoidinadvertent unlocking
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The brake mechanism is pre-positioned and automatically engaged when the door is opened, before any motor unit manipulation occurs. This preliminary braking action ensures the receiving module is secured to the track before the motor unit is removed or installed, preventing inadvertent movement or unlocking during the replacement process while maintaining a quick and simple replacement procedure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Facilitates quick and secure motor unit replacement while ensuring the module remains stable and locked in place during the process, enhancing safety and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

friction point to lock the door to the track in the open position, preventing inadvertent unlocking

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP3618794B1Receiving module for ceiling patient lift system
Publication Date: 2025.10.01 ARJO IP HLDG AB
  • EP3618794B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3618794B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3618794B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A receiving module for a ceiling patient lift including a housing defining an internal cavity configured to hold a motor unit, a door hingedly connected to a side face of the housing, the door movable between an open position and a closed position, a slider element operatively connected to the housing, at least one retaining member connected to the slider element and slidably receiving in a side face of the housing, at least one counter support provided on an upper surface of the housing, and at least one ramp member provided in the internal cavity of the housing.