Patient Support Release Interlock for Inverted and Loaded Detachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient positioning support systems lack a fail-safe mechanism to prevent improper disconnection of patient support structures from the base structure, which can lead to accidental falls or injuries during medical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A fail-safe release mechanism is introduced, featuring a two-part interlock system that includes a direct mechanical link and a software-synchronized mechanism, preventing the release of one part before the other, and is dependent on the orientation and load of the patient support structure, ensuring secure attachment even when the patient is upside down, and includes a hand-held pendant for operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a removable connection system is used to allow easy assembly and disassembly of patient support structures, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to risk of improper disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The system requires preliminary verification of connection status through indicators (visual, audible, or tactile) before allowing release. The interlock mechanism performs preliminary checks to ensure proper engagement before permitting disassembly, preventing improper disconnection while maintaining ease of operation when correctly performed.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system incorporates feedback mechanisms including visual indicators, audible signals, or tactile cues that provide real-time information about connection status. This feedback ensures operators can verify proper engagement before and during assembly/disassembly operations, enhancing both reliability and ease of operation.
2Productivity
If a simple release mechanism is used for quick detachment, then productivity is improved, but reliability worsens due to lack of fail-safe protection
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism incorporates preliminary verification steps that must be completed before detachment is permitted. Indicators show connection status and the system requires specific actions to be taken in sequence, ensuring safety while maintaining efficient operation when properly executed.
Solution Approach 2:
The release mechanism is segmented into distinct sequential steps with clear indicators for each stage. This segmentation allows for quick, standardized operations when performed correctly while built-in verification at each stage prevents improper disconnection, balancing productivity and reliability.
3Reliability
If an interlock system requiring sequential release is implemented, then reliability is improved by preventing improper disconnection, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical interlock systems with electronic or software-based control mechanisms. Sensors, microprocessors, and control algorithms manage the sequential release requirements, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining or enhancing reliability through programmable safety logic and automated verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed to be universal, handling multiple functions including monitoring connection status, providing user feedback, controlling sequential release, and preventing improper disconnection through a single integrated platform. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity compared to dedicated mechanical mechanisms for each function.
4Reliability
If software-controlled release mechanisms are used to synchronize interlock release, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to reduced manual control
Solution Approach 1:
The software-controlled system performs self-verification of connection status and automatically manages the release sequence. The system monitors itself, detects improper conditions, and controls the timing and sequence of releases without requiring complex manual coordination, actually simplifying operator interaction while enhancing reliability through automated synchronized release.
Data Source
AI summary
A fail-safe release mechanism for use with patient positioning support apparati having a base structure and a patient support structure, to prevent collapse of the patient support during disconnection of the patient support structure from the base structure.