Modular Surgical System With Detachable Columns for Device Passage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional spine tables with a cross tube require significant space, are difficult to position in smaller operating rooms, and pose challenges in passing devices under the table during procedures, while also being cumbersome to store due to non-separable columns and the need for outlet access.

Innovation Solution

A modular surgical system with telescopic columns and adaptable table tops, allowing for separate storage and power/communication systems, enabling adjustable height and tilt control via wireless communication between components, and compatibility with various table types.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a cross tube is used to connect columns for stability, then structural stability is improved, but space occupation increases and device passage is blocked

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidspace occupation

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The table is divided into separate modular columns that can be independently positioned and stored. Each column is a self-contained unit with its own stability mechanism, eliminating the need for a connecting cross tube and allowing flexible arrangement in the operating room.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If columns are made non-separable for structural integrity, then structural strength is improved, but storage flexibility deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidstorage flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The column assembly is segmented into detachable components: the main column, the cross tube, and the table top. Each component maintains its structural integrity independently while allowing flexible reconfiguration and storage arrangements when disconnected.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Stability of the object's composition

If the table is kept at full length for stability, then structural stability is improved, but storage space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidstorage space

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The table structure is segmented into separate columns that can be stored independently in a compact configuration. When assembled, the columns provide full-length stability; when stored, they occupy minimal space as separate units without requiring the full extended length.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If a cross tube is installed for power and communication, then system functionality is improved, but device passage capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem functionalityVSAvoiddevice passage capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The cross tube is segmented into a detachable component that can be removed when device passage is required. Power and communication connections are maintained through alternative means such as wireless communication or connections at the column bases, allowing the cross tube to be absent during procedures requiring device passage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3960142B1Modular surgical system

Publication Date: 2025.08.27 ALLEN MEDICAL SYST INC

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AI summary

A modular surgical system comprises a portable column (12) having an adaptor (30), and a control system configured to communicate with remote devices (60). The control system is further configured to control the adaptor (30). The adaptor (30) is configured to couple the column (12) to a table top (14). The control system is configured to control the table top (14) coupled to the adaptor (30).