Suspended Medical Device Latch Positioning With Vibration Buffering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current positioning systems for suspended medical devices face low precision due to sensor limitations and mechanical vibrations, which can damage the system and interfere with medical operations.

Innovation Solution

A positioning system incorporating a latch assembly connected to a positioning adjustment block via buffer springs, providing stable and accurate positioning by using an electromagnet and compression spring mechanism, along with a buffer device to absorb impacts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a sensor and braking device are used for trolley positioning, then the mechanical structure is simplified, but the positioning precision is low and alignment is inaccurate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemechanical structureVSAvoidpositioning precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the sensor-based control system with a mechanical latch structure that directly achieves precise positioning through physical engagement between the latch and positioning blocks, eliminating the need for complex sensing and braking control systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The positioning system is divided into discrete positioning blocks at specific locations (chest position, under-bed position) that can be independently engaged by the latch mechanism, allowing precise positioning at predetermined locations without complex continuous control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Manufacturing precision

If a latch structure is used for mechanical positioning, then positioning accuracy is increased, but mechanical vibrations are generated that can damage the system and interfere with medical operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidmechanical vibrations

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates buffering structures (elastic elements, shock-absorbing materials) between the latch assembly and the trolley, and between the positioning blocks and the ceiling rail, to absorb impact energy before it propagates through the system, thereby reducing vibrations while maintaining positioning accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces buffering elements as intermediary components between the rigid mechanical parts (latch, positioning blocks, trolley) to decouple the direct mechanical connection, allowing the positioning function to be maintained while vibration transmission is reduced

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 system achieves stable and accurate positioning of medical devices, reducing mechanical vibrations and enhancing operational safety for medical procedures.

Implementation Method 1

The latch assembly may include an electromagnet, a latch, and a compression spring

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnet: Electromagnet

Implementation Method 2

The buffer device may comprise buffer springs. The latch assembly may be connected to the positioning assembly through two buffer springs on two sides

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8342469B2Positioning system for a suspended medical device

Publication Date: 2013.01.01 SHENZHEN MINDRAY BIO MEDICAL ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A positioning system for a suspended medical device includes a positioning adjustment block fixed on a ceiling rail, a latch assembly, and a positioning assembly fixed on a trolley. The latch assembly is in a snap fit with the positioning adjustment block, and the latch assembly is connected to the positioning assembly through buffer springs.