IV Pole Integrated DC Power Distribution and Hinged Clamp
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current IV pole designs require multiple AC power lines and transformers, leading to a cluttered and dangerous environment during patient movement, as they need to be carefully disconnected and reconnected, wasting time and increasing the risk of power loss.
Innovation Solution
An IV pole with integrated AC/DC power conversion and DC power distribution along its length, featuring a hinged clamp that secures IV devices to the pole and connects them directly to the DC power network, eliminating the need for AC/DC conversion at individual endpoints, reducing clutter and simplifying the process of moving IV devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple AC power lines and transformers are used to power individual IV devices, then each device can be powered independently, but the environment becomes cluttered and dangerous during patient movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple AC power lines and individual transformers into a single integrated DC power distribution system. The IV pole includes a power supply unit with AC to DC converter and DC distribution rails that provide centralized power to multiple IV devices, eliminating the need for separate power connections for each device and reducing environmental clutter.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated DC power distribution system serves multiple IV devices simultaneously through a single power source. The DC distribution rails can power infusion pumps, IV bags, and other medical devices along the pole, making the power system universal and adaptable to various device configurations without requiring multiple separate power lines.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple AC power lines and transformers are used for each IV device, then power can be supplied to individual features, but time is lost during patient movement due to disconnection and reconnection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual power connections into a single integrated DC power distribution system. Instead of disconnecting and reconnecting multiple separate power lines and transformers during patient movement, the centralized DC system allows for rapid power redistribution along the distribution rails, significantly reducing the time required for patient relocation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple AC power lines and transformers are used, then individual IV devices can be powered, but the system complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple AC power lines and individual transformers into a single integrated power supply unit with centralized AC to DC conversion. This merging reduces the total number of components while maintaining the capability to power multiple individual IV devices through the DC distribution rails, thereby reducing system complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If AC power lines are used for each IV device, then devices can be powered independently, but safety risks increase during patient movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate AC power connections into a single integrated DC power distribution system. This consolidation reduces the number of connection points that could accidentally slip or become disconnected during patient movement, thereby improving reliability and safety while maintaining independent device operation through the DC distribution rails.
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
This solution reduces the time and risk associated with moving IV devices by consolidating power management, minimizing heat and noise, and eliminating the need for multiple power connections, thus enhancing safety and efficiency in hospital settings.
Implementation Method 1
a power converter disposed in the base portion, distribution rails respectively electrically coupled to the power converter
Data Source
AI summary
An intravenous (IV) pole assembly includes a non-conductive support element, distribution rails respectively disposed along a length of the non-conductive support element and a clamping element. The distribution rails are respectively configured for power distribution along the length of the non-conductive support element. The clamping element includes a hinged clamp, which is attachable to the non-conductive support element at an attachment point defined along the length of the non-conductive support element, and a connector by which power is selectively transmittable from the distribution rails to a powered device supportable on the hinged clamp.