Overbed table
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing overbed tables are difficult for bedridden individuals to operate and require significant time for caregivers to adjust, as they are mechanically complex and often require manual effort, limiting their usability and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An automated overbed table apparatus featuring a rechargeable battery-powered system with a linear motor actuator and servomechanism, allowing for electronic control of table positioning and rotation via a remote control device, including a base support frame with casters, a telescoping column, and a control processor for efficient and lightweight operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If mechanical operation systems are used for overbed tables, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the table is difficult to operate for bedridden persons and requires significant manual effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation systems with an automated electronic control system featuring electric motors, a microprocessor, and wireless communication. The bedside table is now controlled electronically through wireless transmission rather than manual mechanical manipulation, solving the problem of difficult operation for bedridden persons while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Device complexity
If manual adjustment mechanisms are used, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity and service time are reduced due to requiring caregiver intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service capability allowing bedridden persons to independently adjust the bedside table position, angle, and height through wireless control from their bedside. This eliminates the need for caregiver intervention, increasing productivity by freeing up 20-30 minutes of caregiver time per adjustment while maintaining relatively simple device architecture through modular electronic components.
3Ease of operation
If automated electronic systems are implemented, then the ease of operation and productivity improve, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by integrating multiple capabilities into a single electronic control system: wireless communication, motor control, position sensing, and user interface functions are combined in one microprocessor-based controller. This universal approach improves ease of operation and productivity while managing device complexity through consolidation rather than separate systems for each function.
4Strength
If heavy mechanical structures are used, then the stability and support capability are improved, but the ease of movement and repositioning are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the bedside table structure adjustable and reconfigurable through electronic control. The table can dynamically change its position, height, and angle to adapt to different user needs and bed configurations. This dynamic capability provides both structural support when needed and ease of repositioning through motorized adjustment, resolving the contradiction between strength and ease of movement.
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 automated system reduces caregiver time spent on adjusting the table by approximately 20-30 minutes, enabling bedridden patients to independently adjust the table for various uses, enhancing usability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A linear motor is positioned in the motor housing with a linear motor actuator projecting through the opening and into the telescoping housing wherein an extension member of the linear motor actuator is attached at a top end to a slidable table column member
Implementation Method 2
a servomechanism attached in the servo housing positioned for a rotating shaft of the servomechanism to engage a circular bracket attached adjacent to a first end of a table wherein the circular bracket is rotatably engaged with the servo housing
Implementation Method 3
The rechargeable battery is in electrical communication with a control processor of a control panel attached adjacent the first end of the table, to the linear motor and to the servomechanism
Data Source
AI summary
An overbed table may have a base support frame with at least three casters and a rechargeable battery. A motor housing with a top wall having an opening may be attached to the base support and a telescoping column that is hollow tubular is attached at a bottom end to the motor housing over the opening to extend upwardly. A linear motor is positioned in the motor housing with a linear motor actuator projecting through the opening and into the telescoping housing wherein an extension member of the linear motor actuator is attached at a top end to a slidable table column member of the telescoping housing. Servo housing is attached at a top end of the slidable table column member with a servomechanism attached in the servo housing positioned for a rotating shaft of the servomechanism to engage a circular bracket attached adjacent to a first end of a table wherein the circular bracket is rotatably engaged with the servo housing. The rechargeable battery is in electrical communication with a control processor of a control panel attached adjacent the first end of the table, to the linear motor and to the servomechanism.