Quick Release Camera System for Grossing Station
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autopsy and grossing stations lack a handheld, integrated imaging system that allows for flexible camera positioning and easy image capture, requiring manual movement of the subject or use of separate cameras for different angles and types of images.
Innovation Solution
A grossing station with a quick release camera system that can be detached from an interlocking mechanism and positioned by hand at any angle, featuring a self-retracting mechanism for automatic return to a stationary position, and integrated with a switch for capturing still pictures, video recordings, and dictation, with storage capabilities on the station or cloud systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed camera system is used in prior art autopsy stations, then the camera structure is simple and stable, but the camera cannot be positioned flexibly to capture images from different angles and the subject must be moved to photograph different spots
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed camera system into a movable one. The camera is mounted on a track system that allows it to be positioned at different locations along the autopsy table, and can be tilted to various angles. This dynamic positioning capability enables flexible image capture without requiring subject movement, while the track-based mounting provides structural guidance that maintains reasonable system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system is segmented into multiple independent components: the camera unit itself, the track mounting system, the tilting mechanism, and the quick-release interface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the camera can be easily removed and repositioned, the track provides stable mounting, and the tilting mechanism enables angle adjustment without affecting other parts of the system.
2Ease of operation
If a separate camera is brought into the lab for taking images in prior art, then the camera can be positioned flexibly, but the integration with the grossing station is lost and requires additional manual setup
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the camera system with the grossing station by integrating the camera mounting directly into the autopsy table structure via tracks and overhead supports. This combination allows the camera to be permanently associated with the work station while maintaining positioning flexibility. The quick-release mechanism further enhances this integration by allowing rapid attachment and detachment without requiring complex setup procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system is pre-integrated into the grossing station structure during manufacturing, with tracks and mounting points already in place. This preliminary integration eliminates the need for manual setup when bringing the camera into the lab - the camera is already positioned and configured to work with the specific autopsy table, saving significant setup time while maintaining operational flexibility.
3Ease of operation
If the camera is made handheld and detachable for intuitive positioning, then the ease of operation is improved, but the camera requires a quick release mechanism that increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-release mechanism is designed to be self-service in nature - it allows the operator to quickly detach and reattach the camera using simple manual actions without requiring tools or complex procedures. The mechanism likely involves a latch or snap-fit system that can be engaged and disengaged with one hand, providing intuitive handheld positioning while keeping the added complexity minimal through self-contained design.
Data Source
AI summary
A grossing station comprising a table and a hood connected to the table. The grossing station also comprises a quick release camera system secured to a surface of the hood, wherein the quick release camera system is detachable from the hood for close up angles and zoomed location still or video images of the body or material being examined on a surface of the grossing station.