Grossing station system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autopsy and grossing stations are often fixed at a single height, lack ventilation systems, and do not have integrated formalin storage or eco-friendly refill systems, leading to ergonomic issues and inefficient energy use.
Innovation Solution
A grossing station with an adjustable height, integrated blower and ventilation system, a filter hour meter, eco mode, remote warning system, low CFM warning, configurable alarms, touch screen controller for redundancy, improved lighting, and a formalin refill system that allows for easy and automatic refilling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the grossing station is fixed at a single height, then the structure is simple and stable, but it causes ergonomic issues for users of various heights
Solution Approach 1:
The grossing station table top is made adjustable in height through a mechanical lifting mechanism that allows the table to be raised or lowered to accommodate users of different heights, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to user needs
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the ventilation system runs continuously, then odor control is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ventilation system operates periodically rather than continuously, using sensors to detect when odors are present and activating the blower only when needed, thereby maintaining effective odor control while significantly reducing energy consumption during periods when ventilation is not required
3Ease of manufacture
If filters are replaced based on fixed time intervals, then maintenance is simplified, but unnecessary replacements increase cost and waste
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a filter hour meter that provides real-time feedback on actual filter usage based on ventilation operation hours, allowing filters to be replaced based on actual need rather than fixed schedules, thus reducing unnecessary replacements and waste while maintaining proper filtration
4Device complexity
If manual monitoring of formalin levels is used, then the system is simpler, but productivity decreases due to frequent manual checks
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates an automatic formalin level monitoring system with sensors that detect when formalin levels are low and trigger refilling operations automatically, eliminating the need for manual monitoring and allowing the system to service itself, thereby maintaining simplicity while improving productivity
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 solution provides an ergonomic and efficient grossing station that conserves energy, reduces unnecessary filter replacements, and ensures reliable operation with customizable alerts and automatic formalin refilling, enhancing user experience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an air system that includes an air intake and air exhaust vents that may also include filters and the like to constantly clean the air and reduce odors from the autopsy table and surrounding environment
Implementation Method 2
a filter hour meter that acts in real time
Implementation Method 3
a low CFM warning system, such that the grossing station monitors the air flow rate in cubic feet per minute (CFM) and allows for the user to input a lower threshold that may set an alarm if the CFM drops below the low limit
Data Source
AI summary
A grossing station comprising a table and an overhead hood connected to the table. The grossing station further comprising a plurality of interchangeable plates arranged in a trough of the table and a lift system connected to the table. The grossing station also comprises a touch screen controller arranged on a surface of the station, wherein the touch screen controller is in communication with at least one manual toggle switch for overriding an electronic control and monitoring system if a system failure occurs within the grossing station.