Operating Table Component Communication Module for Collision Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current operating table control systems fail to recognize attached components accurately, limiting the usable range of movement due to worst-case configuration assumptions, which can lead to collisions and restricted functionality.
Innovation Solution
A component with a communication module and detection device that autonomously transmits information about itself and attached components, using a switch to activate the communication module and a low-energy transmission unit, allowing the control system to determine the exact configuration and range of movement without collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the control system uses worst-case configuration assumptions to ensure safety, then collision avoidance is guaranteed, but the usable range of movement is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using detection devices (switches) to sense the actual configuration of attached components and transmitting this information back to the control system. This allows the control system to adjust the virtual collision-free movement space based on real-time component detection rather than relying on static worst-case assumptions, thereby expanding the usable range of movement while maintaining collision avoidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining multiple virtual collision-free movement spaces corresponding to different component configurations. Before the operating table is used, the control system determines which configuration is actually present and selects the appropriate pre-calculated movement space, enabling optimal range of motion from the start without needing to restrict movement based on unknown configurations.
2Ease of manufacture
If passive radio identification elements are used for component detection, then procurement costs are reduced, but the detection reliability may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated system: the detection device (switch) physically integrated with the component, the communication module for data transmission, and the power supply device. This integration ensures reliable detection through direct physical contact (switch activation) while keeping costs low by using simple, proven technologies rather than complex active RFID systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
A component (2) of an operating table (1) is provided. The component (2) comprises a communication module (3) for transmitting information of the component (2), wherein the communication module (3) comprises: a memory device (11) configured to store information of the component (2), a transmission unit (12) configured to transmit at least a part of the information of the component (2), and a power supply device (13) configured to supply the transmission unit (12) with energy.