Processor controlled surgical step stool with automatic height adjustment, vaccum attachment, and electronic foot switches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgical stools are non-adjustable, unstable, and require multiple units to accommodate height and equipment needs, leading to workplace hazards and contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A motorized, processor-controlled surgical step stool with adjustable height and suction mechanism for stability, integrated foot switch holders, and wireless control for ergonomic positioning and sterility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple non-adjustable step stools are stacked to achieve required height and platform space, then surgeons can access equipment and maintain ergonomic positioning, but the setup becomes unstable and creates workplace hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The step stool incorporates motorized height adjustment capability, allowing it to dynamically adapt to different surgeon heights and surgical requirements. The automated adjustment mechanism eliminates the need for manual stacking of multiple static stools, providing a single stable platform that can change height as needed while maintaining stability through controlled motorized extension rather than precarious stacking.
Solution Approach 2:
The step stool includes automated height adjustment functionality that operates without manual intervention. The system can autonomously extend or retract to the required height based on pre-programmed settings or user input, eliminating the need for staff to manually move and stack multiple stools, thereby reducing workplace hazards and improving reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple step stools are combined to accommodate height and platform space needs, then surgeons can control multiple pedal switches, but staff must repeatedly move and stack the stools creating contamination risks
Solution Approach 1:
The step stool is designed with a large, versatile platform that can accommodate multiple pedal switches and various surgical equipment simultaneously. The motorized height adjustment and extended platform surface allow a single stool to fulfill the functions previously requiring multiple stacked stools, eliminating the need for staff to repeatedly reposition equipment and reducing contamination risks from encroaching on the sterile field.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated height adjustment and platform extension capabilities allow the step stool to adapt to different surgical configurations without manual intervention. The system can autonomously configure the platform size and height to accommodate different numbers and types of pedal switches, eliminating the need for staff to manually move and restack stools, thereby reducing contamination risks.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed-height step stools are used, then manufacturing is simple, but they cannot be adjusted to optimize visualization and equipment use for different surgeons
Solution Approach 1:
The step stool incorporates motorized height adjustment mechanisms that allow it to dynamically change height to suit different surgeon requirements. While this adds manufacturing complexity compared to fixed-height stools, the automated system provides significant benefits in adaptability and ergonomics. The motorized components enable precise height control and storage in multiple positions, making the stool adaptable to various surgical scenarios and surgeon preferences.
Solution Approach 2:
The step stool features variable height parameters that can be adjusted according to different surgical needs and surgeon characteristics. The motorized adjustment system allows the height parameter to be changed dynamically, providing optimization for visualization and equipment access. This parameter variability is controlled through automated mechanisms that maintain manufacturing feasibility while delivering superior adaptability.
4Ease of operation
If pedal switches are placed on step stools, then surgeons can control equipment, but accidental kicks and cord tangling occur
Solution Approach 1:
The step stool incorporates automated height adjustment and platform stabilization features that maintain optimal pedal switch positioning without manual intervention. The motorized system can detect and correct minor displacements, and the enlarged platform provides ample space for secure pedal placement with integrated cord management features that prevent tangling, maintaining equipment control reliability throughout the surgical procedure.
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
Provides stable, ergonomic support with reduced contamination risk by allowing precise height adjustment and secure placement, minimizing the need for manual adjustments and reducing clutter.
Implementation Method 1
a motorized bottom suction device (130) configured to create a partial vacuum to prevent movement of the step stool
Data Source
AI summary
Operating room tables have limited height adjustment capability. To adequately treat a patient, surgeons often have to risk back injury and/or stand on rickety piles of prior art step stools, which is unsafe and can compromise sterility. Here, a computer-processor-controlled, motorized, surgical step-platform device is disclosed. The device is configured to have dimensions similar to a step stool. The device is configured to easily slide across a floor to an operating table. Then, often by remote control from a Smartphone, the device can vacuum affix itself into position and automatically raise between 5 to 18 inches above the floor. The device has sophisticated rechargeable battery power management and further accommodates wired, and wireless foot switches to control nearby surgical equipment.