Patient Head Positioning Joints with Remote Release Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical head positioning devices require multiple team members for adjustments, are time-consuming, and often offer only discrete adjustability, leading to suboptimal positioning.
Innovation Solution
A device with joints that can be locked and unlocked by a single operator, featuring a release system with an operator interface for supporting the head's weight, and a coupling mechanism for secure attachment of accessories, allowing continuous adjustability and single-person operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple team members are used to operate adjustments on existing positioning devices, then the positioning can be achieved with multiple adjustment capabilities, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires several people to participate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple adjustment functions into a single integrated device that can be operated by one person. The positioning device integrates head support, positioning adjustments, and securing mechanisms into one unified system, eliminating the need for multiple team members to operate separate adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables a single operator to perform all positioning adjustments independently. The operator can support the patient's head and make adjustments simultaneously using the integrated controls, making the system self-sufficient without requiring additional personnel.
2Device complexity
If existing positioning devices offer discrete adjustability, then the device structure can be simplified, but the positioning precision becomes suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates continuous adjustment mechanisms that allow smooth, incremental positioning rather than discrete steps. The device enables dynamic adjustment of head position along multiple axes with fine control, achieving precise positioning while maintaining manageable device complexity through well-engineered adjustment mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If the operator interface is located near the joints, then the control mechanism can be simplified, but the operator cannot support the weight of the body part during adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the operator interface (handle) at a location that serves as both a control point and a support point. The handle acts as an intermediary that transmits operator force to the adjustment mechanisms while simultaneously providing a surface for the operator to support the patient's head weight during positioning adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
A device 50 for supporting and positioning a part of a patient's body includes at least two joints 62, 64, 66 each having a locked state and an unlocked state and a release system for allowing an operator to select between the locked state and the unlocked state. The release system has an operator interface remote from the joints and at a location that enables the operator to support the weight of the body part while at least one of the joints is in the unlocked state.