Mattress having selectable patient weight valve, inductive power, and a digital x-ray cassette
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current patient support systems face challenges in managing pressure relief for varying patient weights and require efficient power transmission for embedded sensors, while in-bed x-ray procedures are cumbersome and pose risks to caregivers due to manual handling and cleaning issues.
Innovation Solution
A patient support apparatus with a foam frame and bladder assembly featuring selectable pressure relief valves and inductive power transmission for embedded electronic components, including a digital x-ray cassette, which automatically adjusts pressure based on patient weight and wirelessly powers sensors within the mattress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single fixed pressure relief valve is used in the bladder assembly, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot provide optimal pressure relief for patients of different weight ranges
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static single-pressure valve to a dynamic multi-pressure valve system where the relief pressure can be changed based on patient weight. The control system automatically selects the appropriate pressure threshold from multiple available valves, allowing the mattress to adapt its pressure relief characteristics to match different patient weights and medical conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the pressure parameter by providing multiple pressure relief valves with different predetermined pressure thresholds. The control system selects which valve to activate based on detected patient weight, thereby changing the pressure relief parameter to match the patient's needs without requiring manual adjustment or complex mechanical mechanisms.
2Reliability
If cables or wires are used to power sensors inside the mattress, then power transmission is reliable, but the cables are subject to fatigue and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical cable-based power transmission system with a wireless power transmission system. This eliminates the physical cables that are subject to fatigue, wear, and damage from movement, while maintaining reliable power delivery to the sensors and other electronic components embedded in the mattress.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary wireless power transmission mechanism (such as inductive coupling or electromagnetic field transmission) to transfer power through the mattress structure without physical contact. This intermediary approach allows power to be delivered reliably without the mechanical constraints and failure modes of wired connections.
3Ease of operation
If an x-ray sleeve is used to facilitate in-bed x-ray, then cassette insertion is easier, but cleaning and disinfection become problematic according to FDA guidance
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the x-ray cassette from the sleeve and integrates it directly into the mattress structure. This eliminates the need for a separate sleeve that would require cleaning and disinfection, while maintaining easy access for cassette insertion and removal through the mattress's built-in mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the x-ray cassette housing with the mattress structure, combining two previously separate components (mattress and x-ray equipment) into a single integrated unit. This integration eliminates the cleaning issues associated with sleeves while preserving the ease of operation benefits, as the cassette can still be accessed through the mattress's designed interface.
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 solution provides enhanced pressure relief and comfort for patients across different weight ranges, reduces caregiver injury by simplifying in-bed x-ray procedures, and addresses cleaning and disinfection concerns through wireless power and data transmission.
Implementation Method 1
An inductive power transmitter may be coupled to the frame. An inductive power receiver may be positioned within the interior of the mattress and electrically coupled to the electronic component. The inductive power transmitter may transmit a power signal to the power transceiver to supply power to the electronic component.
Data Source
AI summary
A patient support apparatus may include a foam frame defining a space. A bladder assembly may be positioned in the space. The bladder assembly may include a plurality of foam filled bladders. Each of the foam filled bladders may be interconnected by a manifold. A plurality of mutually exclusively selectable pressure relief valves may be provided to release air from the bladder assembly.