Modular Device Locking Mechanism for Secure Medical Module Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular medical devices in intensive care settings face challenges in ensuring secure, vibration-proof, and impact-resistant module locking mechanisms that prevent accidental removal or disruption, particularly in mobile or emergency contexts, while maintaining uninterrupted signal transmission and moisture sealing.
Innovation Solution
A manually actuated locking device with a pivoted fastening element and detection system that requires a deliberate sequence of actions to release the module, incorporating a disk with engagement recesses and magnetic sensors to trigger alarms and shut down the module, ensuring secure locking and release mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple locking mechanism is used, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability is worsened due to risk of accidental removal
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by triggering an alarm and shutting down the module before the module is actually removed. When the locking element is actuated, the control unit receives a signal and executes shutdown procedures (saving patient data, stopping measurements) before physical removal occurs, preventing harmful effects of abrupt interruption
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback through an alarm signal that warns the operator when a module is being removed. The control unit detects the actuation of the locking element and generates an audible and/or visual alarm to notify the operator, allowing them to prevent accidental removal by returning the locking element to its initial position
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is used, then reliability is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element serves multiple functions: it mechanically secures the module to the base unit, acts as a trigger for the control unit to initiate shutdown procedures, and serves as a trigger for the alarm system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the mechanical locking function with the control signal trigger function into a single integrated system. The locking element's movement simultaneously performs mechanical retention and electrical signaling to the control unit, merging structural and control functions
3Reliability
If module removal is restricted, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares for removal by executing shutdown procedures before the module is actually detached. The control unit saves patient data, stops measurements, and prepares the module for removal, allowing the operator to easily remove the module afterward without worrying about data loss or system errors
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 high functional reliability by preventing incorrect operation and ensuring uninterrupted module functionality, meeting stringent mechanical and operational requirements for medical devices, while simplifying the locking and release process.
Implementation Method 1
a detector or detecting means are provided for detecting at least the first end position and the intermediate position of the actuating device
Data Source
AI summary
A modular device, including a base unit with a plurality of module sockets and a number of modules that can be detachably connected to the module socket as well as a control unit for the connected modules, and the module sockets have manually actuatable locking devices for the modules. The locking devices include a manually actuated actuating device, which can be pivoted around a pivot axis from a first end position through an intermediate position into a second end position and which locks the module in the first end position and release the module in the second end position, and have a detector for detecting at least the first end position and the intermediate position of the actuating device.