Modular Prone Position Device Using Block and Tackle Pulley
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing prone position devices for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome, such as those caused by SARS-CoV-2, are cumbersome, require elaborate installations, and lack portability, making it difficult for caregivers to easily transition patients between supine and prone positions without motorized rigs, and do not effectively manage vital tubing and lines.
Innovation Solution
A modular, portable prone position device using mechanical means with a pliable support net and block and tackle pulley system that can be easily integrated into various bed environments, allowing for effortless transition and precise control of patient positioning, while accommodating vital tubing and lines without dislodgement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing prone position devices are used, then patient positioning can be achieved, but the devices are cumbersome and require elaborate installations
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular components including a support structure with adjustable legs, a positioning mechanism with separate control elements, and detachable connection interfaces. This segmentation allows each component to be independently assembled and adjusted, eliminating the need for elaborate installations while maintaining effective patient positioning capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates self-adjusting features such as automatic height adjustment mechanisms and self-locking positioning elements that require minimal setup intervention. The system can be quickly deployed by simple assembly operations without requiring complex installation procedures or specialized equipment, thereby improving ease of operation while reducing installation complexity.
2Ease of operation
If motorized rigs are used for patient positioning, then precise control is achieved, but portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device replaces motorized systems with pure mechanical advantage mechanisms including lever arms, pulley systems, and friction-based locking components. These mechanical elements provide precise positioning control through mechanical leverage while maintaining a lightweight, portable structure that can be easily moved and repositioned without requiring electrical power sources or heavy motor assemblies.
3Reliability
If fixed interval turning is performed manually, then oxygenation is improved, but staff workload increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates automatic timing mechanisms and self-actuating positioning features that initiate and execute patient repositioning at predetermined intervals without requiring continuous staff intervention. The system automatically transitions the patient between positions and maintains them for optimized oxygenation periods, thereby improving respiratory outcomes while significantly reducing the time and effort required from medical staff.
Solution Approach 2:
The device pre-configures positioning mechanisms and timing schedules in advance, so that patient repositioning actions are already prepared and can be executed automatically at the appropriate moments. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for staff to manually plan and execute each position change, improving both oxygenation reliability and staff productivity.
4Stability of the object's composition
If elaborate installation apparatuses are used, then positioning stability is achieved, but adaptability to different beds is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates universal mounting interfaces and adjustable support structures that can be adapted to various bed types including hospital beds, portable beds, and examination tables. The positioning mechanism features standardized connection points and flexible leg configurations that maintain stable patient positioning across different bed platforms, thereby achieving both positioning stability and broad bed compatibility without requiring elaborate bed-specific installations.
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 device enables efficient and portable transition of patients between supine and prone positions, reducing the risk of decubitus ulcers and improving oxygenation, while maintaining communication with medical devices, thus enhancing patient care and reducing the need for ventilator use.
Implementation Method 1
block and tackle pulley system that can be easily integrated into various bed environments, allowing for effortless transition and precise control of patient positioning
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a prone position device that is modular and has universal integration capability, for an effortless transition to a prone position in patients suffering from SARS-CoV-2 or any acute respiratory distress syndrome through the use of a mechanical means that may be fitted into a full spectrum of beds to support a multitude of resting positions for the patient.