Quick Release Module for Medical Tabletop with Anti-Disengagement Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical procedure tabletop modules lack a secure connection mechanism that prevents involuntary disconnection, especially in environments with high movement of personnel and equipment, which can lead to accidental disengagement during medical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A module with a sliding latch and latch activator mechanism that engages with a corresponding coupling section on the medical procedure tabletop, allowing for secure connection and reduced risk of involuntary disengagement by requiring the latch activator to be moved away from the tabletop to disengage, and incorporating a resilient member for self-locking and improved load distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional connection mechanism is used, then the module can be easily connected to the tabletop, but the connection is prone to involuntary disengagement due to movement of personnel and equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism incorporates a resilient member that continuously applies a locking force to maintain engagement between the module and tabletop. This preliminary anti-action prevents involuntary disengagement by counteracting forces that might otherwise cause separation during patient positioning or equipment movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static connection to a dynamic self-adjusting system. The resilient member allows the connection to adapt to movement and forces applied during medical procedures, maintaining secure engagement while accommodating the dynamic nature of the operating environment.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then the risk of involuntary disconnection is reduced, but the complexity of the connection mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock without requiring complex manual operations. The resilient member self-adjusts to maintain locking force, and the mechanism can be released with a simple actuator operation, eliminating the need for complex multi-step locking procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is extracted as a separate resilient member component rather than being integrated into a complex mechanical assembly. This modular approach simplifies the overall mechanism while maintaining secure locking capability through the dedicated function of the resilient member.
3Productivity
If the latch activator is positioned for easy access, then the module can be quickly released, but it becomes vulnerable to accidental activation by personnel moving around the tabletop
Solution Approach 1:
The latch activator is positioned in a specific location that balances accessibility with protection from accidental activation. The activator is placed where it can be easily reached by authorized personnel for quick release, while its design and positioning make it inaccessible to general movement in the operating area, thus preventing accidental activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism employs asymmetric design where the engagement direction is straightforward but the release direction requires deliberate action. The latch activator is positioned and configured so that accidental contact during normal operation cannot trigger release, while intentional activation by trained personnel remains quick and efficient.
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 a secure, quick, and easy connection to the medical procedure tabletop with reduced risk of involuntary disengagement, ensuring stability during procedures and supporting a safe working load of 300 kg while maintaining ease of handling and minimizing interference with medical operations.
Implementation Method 1
The coupling section comprises a resilient member configured to provide a locking force
Implementation Method 2
a sliding latch having a sliding extension substantially along the longitudinal axis
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a module connectable to a medical procedure tabletop, wherein the module includes a coupling section allowing for quick and safe connection and disconnection of the module to a medical procedure tabletop. The present disclosure further relates to a medical procedure tabletop having such a module.