Hose-Mounted Switch for Bedside Pump Control in Patient Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current air supply pumps for patient transfer mattresses are bulky, pose tripping hazards, and divert caregivers' attention from patients due to the location of the power switch, and lack features for infection control in healthcare environments.
Innovation Solution
A portable pump apparatus with a hose-mounted power switch, wheels for mobility, and a hose cover to maintain caregiver attention and prevent contamination, allowing the pump to be used under a bed and reducing the risk of accidental activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the power switch is mounted on the pump body, then the pump can be controlled, but the caregiver must move away from the bedside, diverting attention from the patient
Solution Approach 1:
The power switch is separated from the pump body and mounted on the hose instead. This segmentation allows the switch to be positioned within the caregiver's reach at the bedside while the pump remains in its operational location, eliminating the need to move away from the patient.
Solution Approach 2:
The hose acts as an intermediary element that carries the power switch to a location convenient for the caregiver. The hose serves as a medium to transmit both air and control functionality to the bedside area without requiring the pump itself to be moved.
2Productivity
If the pump is placed on the floor, then it can operate the transfer mattress, but it creates a tripping hazard and interferes with the caregiver's task
Solution Approach 1:
The pump is equipped with wheels that allow it to be dynamically repositioned. During patient transfer operations, the pump can be moved to an elevated position on a stand or cart, removing it from the floor to eliminate tripping hazards while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump is transitioned from a floor-level position to an elevated position using a stand or cart. This vertical dimension change removes the pump from the floor plane where it would create tripping hazards, while still allowing hose connection and operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a long hose is used to connect the pump to the transfer mattress, then the pump can be positioned away from the patient, but the switch becomes difficult to reach
Solution Approach 1:
The hose serves as an intermediary that brings the power switch to the caregiver's location at the bedside. By mounting the switch on the hose rather than the pump body, the caregiver can access the switch through the hose's length without needing to reach the pump itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The control function is segmented from the pump body and placed on the hose. This allows the hose to act as a control extension, bringing the switch within the caregiver's reach while the pump remains positioned for optimal operation.
4Area of stationary object
If the pump is positioned away from the bedside, then floor space is freed, but the caregiver cannot react quickly to patient shifts or falls
Solution Approach 1:
The power switch is segmented from the pump body and placed on the hose at the bedside. This allows the pump to be positioned away from the bedside to free up floor space, while the switch remains accessible to the caregiver for immediate control.
Solution Approach 2:
The hose acts as an intermediary that connects the remotely positioned pump to the bedside area. It transmits both air and control signals, allowing the caregiver to operate the pump from the bedside without the pump itself needing to be close to the patient.
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
Enhances safety and efficiency in patient care by keeping caregivers focused on the patient, reducing the risk of injury, and providing a sanitary barrier against contamination.
Implementation Method 1
a pump configured for moving air
Data Source
AI summary
A pumping apparatus includes a pump configured for moving air, a housing supporting and at least partially containing the pump, and an air output that includes a hose having a first end connected to the housing and in communication with the pump, such that the pump is configured to move air through the hose, and a second end configured for allowing air to exit the hose, wherein the hose has a length defined between the first and second ends. A switch is mounted on the hose and located along the length of the hose, and the switch is configured for controlling operation of the pump. The switch is located a distance from the second end of the hose that is less than 50% of the length of the hose.