Motorized overbed table for beds and recliners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals with upper extremity mobility impairments face significant challenges in accessing and using mobile devices while in bed due to the lack of adjustable and independently deployable bed tables, limiting their independence and productivity.
Innovation Solution
A motorized overbed table system with multiple degrees of freedom, featuring articulating arms, motorized wheels, and a control system with sensors, allowing users to independently position and store devices without physical effort, and enabling fine positional adjustments for enhanced usability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing mechanically operated overbed tables are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but individuals with upper extremity mobility impairments cannot independently adjust height or angle or retrieve items
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an automated robotic system featuring motorized articulating arms, height adjustment, and rotation capabilities. The robotic arm can be controlled via remote control, voice commands, or eye-tracking technology, allowing individuals with upper extremity mobility impairments to independently position tables, devices, and items without physical effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements multiple degrees of freedom with motorized articulating arms that can adjust height, angle, and position dynamically. The table surface can be positioned at various heights and angles, and the entire assembly can be rotated or moved along rails, providing adaptive positioning that responds to user needs rather than requiring manual mechanical adjustment.
2Ease of operation
If manual overbed tables are used, then the device is simple and cost-effective, but rolling it out of the way is challenging especially on carpet or with obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual rolling mechanisms with motorized mobility systems. The robotic arm assembly can be automatically positioned and moved along floor or ceiling-mounted rails using electric motors, eliminating the need for manual rolling. Obstacle detection sensors and automated navigation capabilities allow the system to navigate around obstacles without user intervention.
3Ease of operation
If existing overbed tables are pushed out of the way, then accessibility is improved, but it becomes even more difficult to reach the table to retrieve items later
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm assembly provides dynamic reach capabilities with multiple degrees of freedom, allowing the table surface to be positioned within easy reach of the user at any time. The system can automatically extend or retract the table surface to appropriate distances, ensuring items remain accessible without requiring the user to reach forward or strain.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automated item retrieval capabilities where the robotic arm can automatically pick up, hold, or present items to the user without manual intervention. The table surface can be positioned and held in optimal positions for viewing or interaction, and items can be automatically returned to designated locations.
4Productivity
If individuals with UEMIs use bed rest to prevent pressure sores, then health complications are reduced, but independence and productivity are significantly restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic arm assembly replaces all manual physical effort required for table and device manipulation. Individuals can control the position, height, and orientation of tables and devices using remote controls, voice commands, or eye-tracking technology, completely eliminating the need for upper extremity strength or dexterity while maintaining full independence.
Data Source
AI summary
An overbed table apparatus comprising a rail system and a first arm coupled to the rail system, comprising an extension portion configured to move along a first axis. An end effector can be coupled to the extension portion, wherein the end effector is perpendicularly oriented from the first arm. A first motor assembly can be configured to actuate a first actuator, wherein the first end of the first actuator is coupled to a first end of the first arm and the second end of the first actuator is coupled to the extension portion, wherein the first motor assembly and first actuator are configured to move the extension portion along an axis. A second motor assembly coupled to the end effector. The second motor assembly can be configured to rotate the end effector 360 degrees around an axis. The apparatus can include a control system to operate the apparatus.