Medical Device Locking System with Automatic Security Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
In medical settings, there is a risk of accidentally detaching medical devices from holding structures due to the need for attentive monitoring and control of multiple interconnected devices, which can lead to human error and improper removal of functioning equipment.
Innovation Solution
A locking system comprising a first manual control mechanism for retaining medical devices and a security lock controlled by an automatic device, which can be overridden by a second manual mechanism to ensure safe and intentional removal, preventing accidental disconnection by requiring voluntary action from medical staff.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manual control mechanism is used to retain the medical device on the holding structure, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to human error in removing devices
Solution Approach 1:
An automatic security lock acts as an intermediary between the manual control mechanism and the medical device retention. The security lock receives control signals from the electronic control unit and mechanically prevents the first retaining lock from being actuated when the device should not be removed, thus eliminating human error while preserving manual operation capability when appropriate
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic control unit automatically controls the security lock based on the operational status of the medical device without requiring human intervention. The system self-monitors whether the device should be retained or removed and automatically engages or disengages the security lock accordingly, eliminating the need for human judgment and reducing errors
2Reliability
If a security lock controlled by automatic device is added, then the reliability is improved by preventing human error, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic control unit that already exists for controlling the medical device operation is made multi-functional by adding the capability to control the security lock. The same electronic control unit monitors device status and controls both the medical device operation and the retention locking mechanism, eliminating the need for a separate control system and reducing overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The security lock control function is merged with the existing electronic control unit of the medical device. The control signals for the security lock are integrated into the existing control architecture, combining multiple functions (device operation control and retention locking control) into a single control system, thereby reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall system
3Adaptability or versatility
If a second manual control mechanism for circumventing security lock is provided, then the adaptability is improved for emergency removal, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second manual control mechanism is designed to directly counteract the security lock's retaining action in emergency situations. When activated, it mechanically overrides the security lock's engagement with the first retaining lock, providing a direct counter-action that releases the device immediately without requiring sequence of operations or additional authorization steps
Data Source
AI summary
A locking system for locking a medical device at a holding structure, the medical device and the holding structure each provided with retaining structures which can cooperate with one another. The locking system includes a retaining lock for retaining the medical device when connected to the holding structure and being movable by a first manual control mechanism between a retaining position, in which the lock retains the medical device on the holding structure, and a free position, in which the lock does not retain the medical device on the holding structure. The locking system also includes a security lock which is movable by an automatic control device between active and inactive positions. The security lock, in the active position, prevents the medical device from being removed from the holding structure. In the inactive position, the security lock does not prevent the medical device from being removed from the holding structure.