Fail-safe release mechanism for use with patient positioning support apparati
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient positioning support systems lack a fail-safe mechanism to prevent improper disconnection of patient support structures from the base structure, which can lead to accidental collapse and patient injury due to incorrect pin removal sequences during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A fail-safe release mechanism featuring a two-part interlock system, including a direct mechanical link and software-synchronized mechanism, that ensures the base structure and patient support structure attachments are not released until a specific sequence is followed, with the weight of the patient enhancing the attachment strength and preventing accidental disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple pin connection system is used to attach patient support structure to base structure, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to risk of improper disconnection sequence
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into two distinct interlocks: a first interlock connecting the base structure to the connection subassembly, and a second interlock connecting the connection subassembly to the patient support structure. This segmentation allows independent control and status monitoring of each connection point, ensuring proper sequence and preventing accidental disconnection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates status indication mechanisms that provide real-time feedback on the state of each interlock. This feedback enables operators to verify connection status before proceeding with disconnection, ensuring the correct sequence is followed and preventing improper release that could lead to patient support structure collapse.
2Reliability
If a two-part interlock system with sequence control is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the connection system into two distinct, independently controllable interlocks with clear status indication, the complexity is managed through modular design. Each interlock can be designed and operated independently, making the overall system more understandable and controllable despite the increased number of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system requires preliminary verification of interlock status through indication mechanisms before allowing disconnection. This preliminary action ensures that operators confirm the correct sequence is being followed, adding a safety layer that prevents improper disconnection without requiring complex active control systems.
3Reliability
If mechanical links and software synchronization are used to control release sequence, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The interlock system is designed to control itself through mechanical interdependencies and status indications. The first interlock cannot be released until the second interlock is properly disengaged, and the status indication system automatically informs operators of the correct sequence, reducing the need for complex software control and manual verification procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The status indication mechanisms provide preliminary information to operators about the state of each interlock, enabling them to proceed with disconnection in the correct sequence without requiring complex software instructions or manual checking procedures. This preliminary visual feedback simplifies the operator's task while ensuring reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A fail-safe release mechanism for use with patient positioning support apparati having a base structure and a patient support structure, to prevent collapse of the patient support during disconnection of the patient support structure from the base structure.