Patient support apparatus having an integrated limb compression device
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient support apparatuses, such as beds, face issues with the placement and operation of limb compression devices, which can lead to tripping hazards and inefficient use of space, as well as a lack of integration with other bed features, resulting in suboptimal compression therapy delivery.
Innovation Solution
A patient support apparatus with a frame, control circuitry, and a footboard that houses a compression module, allowing for integrated pneumatic and electrical communication, wireless power and data transfer, and adjustable therapy parameters based on patient position and bed configuration, enhancing the safety and effectiveness of limb compression therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the control box is hung on the footboard, then the compression device can be easily accessed, but the control box may slip off and create safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The control box is integrated into the footboard structure, merging two previously separate components. The control box is received within a dedicated space in the footboard and secured with fasteners, eliminating the need to hang it separately while maintaining accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The control box is nested within the footboard structure, fitting into a specifically designed space. This nesting arrangement allows the control box to be housed securely within the footboard while maintaining easy access for operation.
2Use of energy by moving object
If long power cords are routed from the control box to power outlets, then power can be delivered to the device, but tripping hazards and obstructions are created
Solution Approach 1:
The power cord routing is extracted from the problematic area near the foot of the bed. The electrical cable passes through the footboard structure internally, removing the visible power cord from the floor area where it would create tripping hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The footboard acts as an intermediary structure that provides an internal pathway for the electrical cable. Instead of running the cord across the floor, the footboard mediates the power connection by housing the cable within its structure.
3Area of stationary object
If the compression module is integrated into the footboard, then space is optimized and safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression device is segmented into modular components: the compression module, control box, and electrical cable. This segmentation allows each component to be independently designed and then integrated into the footboard, managing complexity through modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
The footboard is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a structural support element and as an integrated housing for the compression device components. This universal design consolidates multiple functions into a single structure, optimizing space while managing complexity through unified design.
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 solution provides a safer, more integrated, and adaptable limb compression therapy system by eliminating tripping hazards, optimizing space usage, and varying therapy parameters based on patient status and bed configuration, thereby improving patient care.
Implementation Method 1
The compression module is operable to inflate and deflate a compression sleeve worn on a limb of a patient
Implementation Method 2
During operation of the compression module to inflate the compression sleeve, air may move from ambient surroundings into the first interior region of the footboard through the second opening and air may move into the second interior region in the housing of the compression module through the at least one first opening
Data Source
AI summary
A patient support apparatus includes a frame having a patient support deck. A footboard is removably coupled to the frame. A compression therapy module is located inside the footboard or is mounted to a foot section of the frame. A sleeve port is pneumatically coupled to the compression therapy module and is located on the foot section. The sleeve port is configured for attachment to at least one tube extending from a compression sleeve worn on a limb of a patient. Control circuitry is coupled to the frame and is operable to control functions of the patient support apparatus and to control the compression therapy module. A graphical display screen is coupled to the control circuitry and displays user inputs that are selected to control functions of the patient support apparatus and the compression therapy module.