Method and apparatus for upgrading a patient support apparatus to include an integrated patient therapy device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Patient support apparatuses, such as beds, face challenges with limb compression devices due to the risk of control boxes slipping off and long power cords posing tripping hazards, which increase labor and costs for caregivers while reducing patient comfort.
Innovation Solution
A therapy system integrated with a patient support apparatus that includes a frame, a main controller, a user interface, an air system with a source of pressurized air, and a distribution manifold, allowing for the pneumatic therapy device to be stored within the bed and powered independently, reducing the need for external power cords and improving safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a separate control box is provided for the compression sleeve, then the pneumatic components can be housed separately, but the control box can slip off the footboard and requires long power cords that pose tripping hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the control box into the patient support apparatus frame, merging previously separate components (control box, air system, power supply) into a unified integrated system. This eliminates the risk of the control box slipping off and removes the need for long external power cords, as the system draws power directly from the patient support apparatus.
2Ease of operation
If a separate control box is hung on the footboard, then the pneumatic components are accessible, but long power cords are required to route from the foot end to power outlets
Solution Approach 1:
The control box and power supply are integrated into the patient support apparatus frame, eliminating the need for long external power cords. The system draws power directly from the integrated power supply within the frame, removing the tripping hazard while maintaining component accessibility through the frame's design.
3Loss of time
If the control box is stored separately within the healthcare facility, then it can be kept when not in use, but this increases labor for caregivers and reduces patient comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The control box is permanently integrated into the patient support apparatus frame, eliminating the need for separate storage and retrieval operations. This integration reduces caregiver labor and improves patient comfort by maintaining a consistent, accessible therapy system without interruptions for storage or setup.
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 integrated system enhances caregiver efficiency, reduces healthcare costs, and improves patient comfort by eliminating tripping hazards and providing a compact, self-contained pneumatic therapy solution.
Implementation Method 1
an air system supported on the frame, the air system including a source of pressurized air, a distribution manifold
Data Source
AI summary
A therapy system includes a patient support apparatus and a pneumatic therapy device that is coupleable to the patient support apparatus. The therapy device may receive power and air flow from the patient support apparatus.