Patient Support Armrest Pivot Joint with Tension-Loaded Fastener
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient support apparatuses lack a mechanism to efficiently move an armrest out of the way for lateral patient transfer or to accommodate different reclined positions, which can hinder access and safety during patient handling.
Innovation Solution
A patient support apparatus with an articulatable arm that can move between an armrest position and raised positions, optionally coupled with the backrest section, and equipped with a locking mechanism to secure the arm in place, allowing it to pivot and move with the backrest when reclined, thus facilitating access and transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the armrest is fixed in place, then patient support and stability are improved, but access for lateral patient transfer is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest is designed as a dynamic component that can pivot between a lowered armrest position (providing support) and a raised position (clearing the path for lateral transfer). The arm assembly rotates about a pivot axis, allowing it to adapt its position based on patient needs - remaining stable during seating but moving out of the way during transfer operations
2Ease of operation
If the armrest moves completely out of the way, then access for lateral transfer is improved, but patient support during seated position is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest dynamically transitions between two distinct positions: a lowered position that provides support contact for seated patients, and a raised position that completely clears the lateral path for transfer. The pivot mechanism enables this dynamic repositioning while maintaining structural integrity in both states
3Stability of the object's composition
If the arm is rigidly mounted to the seat section, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to different positions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The arm assembly is mounted to the seat section via a pivot connection that allows rotational movement about a pivot axis. This dynamic mounting provides structural stability when the arm is in the lowered armrest position while enabling adaptability to move to raised positions for lateral transfer, accommodating different operational requirements
4Ease of operation
If the arm pivots freely without locking, then ease of movement is improved, but positioning precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The arm assembly incorporates a self-latching mechanism with a latch member and engagement feature that automatically locks the arm in its lowered armrest position when properly positioned. The latch member engages with an engagement feature on the seat section, providing precise positioning and stable locking without requiring external intervention, while still allowing easy manual movement between positions
Data Source
AI summary
A patient support apparatus includes a frame, a stationary member mounted relative to the frame, a movable member having a pivot member rotatably mounting the movable member about the stationary member, and a fastener securing the pivot member to the stationary member. The patient support apparatus also includes a joint between the pivot member and the stationary member, which is configured to apply a tension force on the fastener.