IV Stand Quick-Release Casters and Anti-Rotation Pole Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional IV stands have permanently fixed casters that become defective due to wear and tear, leading to mobility issues, delayed replacement, and increased risk of patient injury and medical costs, as well as entanglement of IV tubes due to rotating pole sections.
Innovation Solution
The IV stand features releasably coupled casters using quick-release members that can be replaced without tools, and a design that prevents relative rotation between pole sections to prevent tube entanglement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If casters are permanently fixed to the pole base via nuts and bolts, then the IV stand structure is stable and strong, but the casters cannot be quickly replaced when defective
Solution Approach 1:
The caster assembly is divided into separable components: a caster body and a mounting mechanism. The caster can be quickly detached from the pole base by releasing a locking mechanism, allowing rapid replacement without tools. This segmentation enables the caster to be replaced independently while maintaining structural integrity during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The caster mounting system transitions from a static permanent fixation to a dynamic releasable connection. The mounting mechanism includes movable locking elements that can be engaged or disengaged as needed, allowing the system to adapt between stable operation mode and quick replacement mode based on operational needs.
2Stability of the object's composition
If casters are permanently fixed to the pole base, then the IV stand maintains structural stability, but replacement requires sending the stand to a maintenance department with tools
Solution Approach 1:
The IV stand incorporates a self-service caster replacement mechanism that allows end-users to replace defective casters without requiring maintenance personnel or specialized tools. The quick-release mechanism enables any user to perform the replacement by simply operating the release lever or button, significantly reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pole sections can rotate relative to one another, then the IV stand is flexible and adjustable, but IV tubes become entangled around the pole
Solution Approach 1:
The pole sections incorporate a mechanism that prevents rotation before tube entanglement can occur. Anti-rotation elements such as splines, keys, or interlocking features are built into the pole section joints, allowing vertical adjustment while blocking any rotational movement that would cause IV tubes to wrap around the pole and become entangled.
Data Source
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AI summary
An intravenous stand (10) for supporting one or more intravenous fluid containers, comprising: a hanger (18) configured to support the one or more intravenous fluid containers; an upper pole (16b) having a first end and a second end, the first end of the upper pole (16b) being coupled to the hanger (18); a lower pole (16c) having a first end and a second end; an insert (66) configured to couple the second end of the upper pole (16b) to the first end of the lower pole (16c), the insert (66) having a shape configured to prevent rotational movement between the upper pole (16b) and the lower pole (16c); a base (12) coupled to the second end of the lower pole (16e); and a plurality of casters (14) releasably coupled to the base (12).