Incubator Side Panel Latch Assembly for Secure Partial Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current incubator systems have movable side panels that can be propped up in an unlatched position, posing a risk of accidental opening and potential harm to neonates due to indicators being missed by caregivers, leading to inadequate protection.
Innovation Solution
A side panel latch assembly with a primary and secondary latch mechanism that ensures the side panel remains latched even in partially open positions, preventing unintended opening by engaging both latches through a single action.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single latch mechanism is used for the side panel, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of securing the side panel in closed positions deteriorates because the panel can be propped up in unlatched positions
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is divided into two independent latch members (first and second latch members) that can engage with corresponding catches separately. This segmentation allows each latch to independently secure the side panel at different positions, preventing the panel from being propped up in unlatched positions while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
2Reliability
If multiple latch members are added to prevent intermediate positions, then the reliability of side panel security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple latch members are integrated into a single latch assembly that moves as one unit. The first and second latch members are both coupled to the same actuator, allowing them to be engaged or disengaged simultaneously through a single action. This merging approach maintains reliability through multiple engagement points while minimizing complexity by avoiding separate control mechanisms for each latch
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a latch mechanism prevents intermediate positions, then the safety of the neonate is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates because the latch must be fully released to open
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed so that actuating the single latch member performs the preliminary action of disengaging both latch members simultaneously. This preliminary action prepares the side panel for opening by ensuring both latches are fully released before the panel can be moved to an intermediate or open position, maintaining safety while simplifying the user action to a single intuitive motion
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
Prevents the side panel from remaining in an intermediate, unlatched position, ensuring the neonate's safety by maintaining a secure closure until fully opened, reducing the risk of accidental opening.
Implementation Method 1
one or more bias springs are positioned between the latch base and the latch lever to bias the latch lever into an upper, latched position
Data Source
AI summary
A neonatal incubator system includes an enclosure having side panels that create a chamber that receives an infant. At least one of the side panels is movable between an upright closed position and a retracted open position. A side panel latch assembly is positioned to permit and prevent movement of the movable side panel between the open and closed positions. The side panel latch assembly includes a movable latch lever having a primary latch member and a secondary latch member that are spaced from each other. The primary latch member engages a first catch on a latch receptable to hold the side panel latch assembly in the latched position. The secondary latch member engages a second catch on the latch receptacle when the side panel is partially open. The primary and secondary latch members move together with the latch lever to release both the primary and secondary latch members.