Fail-Safe Release Mechanism for 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 falls or injuries during surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A fail-safe release mechanism is introduced, featuring a two-part interlock system that includes a direct mechanical link and a software-synchronized mechanism, ensuring that the patient support structure can only be released when in a specific orientation or under increased load, thereby preventing accidental disconnection. This mechanism includes locking members and key members that engage and disengage in a specific order to secure the attachment between the base structure, connection subassembly, and patient support structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple connection mechanism is used to join patient support structure to base structure, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to risk of improper disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is divided into multiple independent locking components (first lock, second lock, interlock mechanism) that work together. Each component performs a specific function: the first lock provides initial securing, the second lock provides additional securing, and the interlock mechanism ensures proper sequencing. This segmentation allows the system to maintain reliability while remaining operable through modular, distinct actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlock mechanism requires that the second lock be engaged before the first lock can be disengaged. This preliminary action sequence ensures that the patient support structure is fully secured before allowing any release operation. The system prevents premature disconnection by making the first lock inoperable until the second lock is properly engaged, thus ensuring safety before ease of operation is activated.
2Reliability
If a fail-safe release mechanism with interlocks is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first lock and second lock mechanisms are merged into a single integrated connection assembly that joins the patient support structure to the base structure. The interlock feature is combined within this same assembly rather than being a separate system. This merging reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the reliability benefits of multiple locking stages and interlock sequencing.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlock mechanism is designed to automatically prevent disengagement of the first lock unless the second lock is engaged. The system self-regulates the operation sequence through mechanical interlocking, eliminating the need for external control systems, sensors, or complex electronic controls. This self-service approach ensures reliability through passive mechanical constraints rather than active control complexity.
3Reliability
If multiple locks with interlock are used, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The release operation is segmented into two distinct, sequential actions: first engaging the second lock, then disengaging the first lock. Each locking component has its own dedicated release mechanism that is simple to operate. This segmentation transforms a potentially complex multi-step release into two straightforward, intuitive actions that are easy to perform while ensuring proper sequencing for safety.
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
The fail-safe release mechanism effectively prevents improper disconnection of patient support structures, ensuring patient safety by requiring a specific sequence of actions and load conditions to release the attachment, thus reducing the risk of accidents during surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The software can operate an electronic release mechanism, such as by one or more solenoids
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.