Detachable Table Top Segments for Medical Procedure Tables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical procedure tables are inefficient due to the need for multiple tables and heavy, cumbersome solid tops that require significant effort and time to change, limiting their use in procedures requiring different table configurations, such as lumbar and cervical surgeries.
Innovation Solution
A medical procedure table with detachable table top segments that can be easily positioned and locked into place along the table spars, allowing for customizable surfaces and quick conversion between open and solid top configurations, facilitated by lightweight design and automatic locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a solid table top is used for cervical procedures, then the table provides adequate support for supine patients, but the table cannot be used for lumbar procedures requiring open top configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The table top is divided into multiple detachable segments that can be independently attached or removed. Each segment can be separately positioned along the table spars, allowing the table to be quickly reconfigured from solid top to open top configuration by simply removing the segments rather than rotating the entire table.
Solution Approach 2:
The same table structure can accommodate both cervical procedures (with solid top segments attached) and lumbar procedures (with segments removed), eliminating the need for separate specialized tables. The spars and locking mechanisms provide universal support for both configured states.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a removable solid table top is used, then the table can be converted between open and solid top configurations, but the top is heavy and requires two people to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The table top is segmented into smaller, lighter sections that can be individually handled by a single operator. Each segment weighs significantly less than a complete solid top, eliminating the need for two-person handling while maintaining the ability to create a solid top configuration when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The table top structure changes from a single heavy solid piece to multiple lightweight segments. This parameter change in mass and configuration allows one person to easily attach and detach segments while still achieving the desired solid top configuration for cervical procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a removable table top is used, then the table configuration can be changed, but the locking mechanisms require coordinated effort to release and secure
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanisms are designed to automatically engage with the spars when a table top segment is placed in position. The segments self-lock into place without requiring manual coordination between multiple people to align and secure the connections, significantly simplifying the attachment process.
Solution Approach 2:
Complex multi-step mechanical locking systems are replaced with simpler automatic engagement mechanisms. The locking features automatically grip the spars as the segment is seated, eliminating the need for coordinated manual operation of multiple locking points.
4Area of stationary object
If carbon-fiber table top overlays are used, then the table top becomes solid for small sections, but the sections are limited to small areas and do not lock into place
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of limited small overlays, the table top is constructed from segmented sections that can cover the entire table length when needed. Each segment is designed with locking features that securely attach to the spars, providing both comprehensive coverage and reliable attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The table top segments automatically lock into place on the spars through self-engaging locking mechanisms. This self-locking feature ensures secure attachment without requiring additional fastening steps, providing both full-coverage capability and reliable attachment.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical procedure table has a plurality of removable table top segments, each having a substantially planar top surface and downwardly-extending lips defining channels for removably seating the table top segment over corresponding parallel spars supported by the base of the table. Each table top segment can be attached at a desired position along the length of spars to create a customizable top surface for the medical procedure table, while the lips constrain lateral movement of the table top segment. Each table top segment also includes locking mechanisms that automatically grip the spars between the locking mechanisms and the lips as the table top segment is seated over the spars. These locking grip mechanisms can be manually released to reposition or remove the table top segment.