Orientation-Based Patient Support Control Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient support systems in medical environments have complex and non-intuitive control systems, making it difficult to accurately position patients for procedures like radiotherapy.
Innovation Solution
A patient support system with a control unit that determines movement direction based on the orientation of a longitudinal axis, allowing for linear and rotational movements along specific axes, using a sliding input device and toggle switch, and incorporating ultrasound, RFID, or inertial measurement devices for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a complex control system is used to manipulate the patient support, then the functionality and precision of positioning are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit's functionality changes dynamically based on its orientation. The control unit can control movement along different axes (first axis, second axis, third axis) depending on how it is oriented relative to the patient support. This dynamic adaptation allows a single control unit to provide precise control for multiple positioning scenarios without requiring multiple specialized controls, thereby maintaining precision while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically determines which movement axis to control based on its own orientation. The system includes sensors that detect the control unit's orientation and automatically activate the appropriate control functionality without requiring the user to manually select or configure control modes. This self-service mechanism simplifies the user interface while maintaining precise positioning capability.
2Device complexity
If multiple control functions are integrated into a single control unit, then the device complexity is reduced, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring the control state increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical orientation detection mechanisms with sensor-based detection systems. Sensors (such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, or magnetic sensors) are used to detect the control unit's orientation in three-dimensional space. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while providing accurate, real-time orientation data that enables the system to automatically activate the appropriate control functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed as a universal control device that can perform multiple functions depending on its orientation. A single control unit with sensors and programmable logic can detect orientation, determine which axis should be controlled, and activate the appropriate control functions. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate control devices needed while maintaining precise control capability.
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 system simplifies patient positioning by allowing intuitive control of the patient support's movement and rotation, enhancing precision and ease of use during medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The inertial measurement device may comprise one or more of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a compass and a magnetometer
Implementation Method 2
The inertial measurement device may comprise one or more of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a compass and a magnetometer
Implementation Method 3
The inertial measurement device may comprise one or more of an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a compass and a magnetometer
Implementation Method 4
The at least one transmitter may comprise an ultrasound transmitter, infrared transmitter and/or an RFID transmitter and the at least one receiver may comprise an ultrasound receiver, an infrared receiver and/or an RFID receiver
Implementation Method 5
The at least one transmitter may comprise an ultrasound transmitter, infrared transmitter and/or an RFID transmitter and the at least one receiver may comprise an ultrasound receiver, an infrared receiver and/or an RFID receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A patient support system, comprises a patient support having a base and an upper surface, the upper surface moveable relative to the base in a direction along at least one of a first axis, a second axis orthogonal to the first axis, and a third axis orthogonal to the first and second axes; and a control unit for controlling movement of the upper surface, the control unit defining a longitudinal axis. The direction of movement of the upper surface relative to the base is determined by the orientation of the longitudinal axis of the control unit relative to the patient support.