Patient Couch Locking Structure for Any-Position Travel Hold
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking mechanisms for patient couches, such as brake apparatuses and detent apparatuses, either require large installation space, are expensive, or are limited to locking at defined intervals, making it difficult to lock the couch in any travel position.
Innovation Solution
A locking structure with two interlocking elements, each having teeth that offset by half or odd multiples of the grid dimension, allowing locking in any position by coordinating the teeth of both elements to block movement in both directions, facilitated by a toggle lever actuation and spring mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a brake apparatus with brake disk and brake shoes is used, then locking can be achieved in any travel position, but large installation space is required and the moment of inertia increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into two separate locking elements, each with their own teeth and actuation mechanism. This segmentation allows for a more compact design compared to a single large brake apparatus, while still achieving locking capability in any travel position through the coordinated action of both elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional brake disk and brake shoe mechanical system with a toothed wheel and locking element system. This substitution reduces the moment of inertia and installation space while maintaining the ability to lock in any position, as the toothed engagement provides direct mechanical locking without requiring large friction surfaces.
2Device complexity
If a detent apparatus with spring-loaded detent and toothed wheel is used, then the structure is simple and inexpensive, but locking is only possible at intervals defined by the grid dimension
Solution Approach 1:
The locking elements are designed to be movable between engaged and disengaged positions, allowing dynamic adjustment. The two locking elements can be independently actuated to engage with different teeth on the toothed wheel, enabling locking at any position along the travel path rather than at fixed intervals only.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of locking interval from fixed (defined by single tooth pitch) to variable (defined by coordinated positions of two locking elements). By having two locking elements with offset tooth patterns, the system can lock at any position that corresponds to a tooth alignment, effectively providing continuous locking capability along the travel path.
3Device complexity
If a single locking element is used, then the structure is simple, but locking in any position cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the limitation of a single locking element by introducing a second locking element with offset tooth positioning. This extraction of the single-element constraint allows the system to achieve locking in any travel position, as the two elements collectively cover the entire travel range with their combined tooth engagement capabilities.
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
Enables reliable locking of the patient couch in any travel position without the need for large installation space or expensive components, reducing operational inertia and ensuring secure positioning.
Implementation Method 1
spring mechanism
Implementation Method 2
toggle lever actuation
Data Source
AI summary
An additional body of an apparatus is mounted on a base body of the apparatus and is movable along a path. Arranged on the base body is a locking structure. Arranged on the additional body is a toothed element. The locking structure and toothed element interact to block movement of the additional body.