Patient Support Pump Assembly Nested Within Existing Footprint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient support apparatuses face challenges in integrating a pump system that does not expand the footprint, allowing for easy movement and compatibility with various spaces while maintaining operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A pump assembly is designed to fit within the existing footprint of the patient support apparatus, positioned above the deck surface and supported by a pole or frame, with a user interface for control, and tubing for fluid communication with fluid receiving elements like bladders, allowing for inflation and deflation without increasing the apparatus's dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pump system is integrated into the patient support apparatus, then fluid supply capability is improved, but the footprint of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump is positioned within the existing footprint by nesting it in the space between the deck surface and the barrier (headboard or footboard). The pump housing is received by a pump support structure that attaches to the barrier, effectively nesting the pump system within the existing apparatus boundaries rather than adding external components.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump is positioned in a raised position relative to the deck surface, utilizing the vertical dimension between the deck and barrier. This vertical placement allows the pump to be integrated without increasing the horizontal footprint, transforming the problem from a 2D footprint constraint to a 3D spatial utilization solution.
2Area of stationary object
If the pump is positioned close to the deck surface, then the footprint is minimized, but accessibility and maintenance become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The pump support structure allows the pump to be positioned at an optimal height that balances footprint minimization with accessibility. The support structure can be adjusted or designed to provide easy access for maintenance while keeping the pump within the footprint boundaries.
3Reliability
If the pump housing is large, then the pump components are well-protected and easily accessible, but the footprint of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump housing is nested within the space defined by the deck surface and barrier, utilizing the existing vertical space rather than expanding horizontally. This nesting approach protects the pump components while maintaining the original footprint dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump housing provides adequate protection for pump components while being compact in design. The housing is sized to fit within the available space between the deck and barrier, providing necessary protection without excessive size that would increase the footprint.
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 enables the patient support apparatus to maintain its original footprint, facilitating easy movement and compatibility with smaller spaces, while providing efficient fluid supply to bladders for patient support and comfort features like low air loss and turning therapy.
Implementation Method 1
a pump operable to supply air to a fluid receiving element, such as a bladder, through a tube
Data Source
AI summary
A patient support apparatus including a removable pump assembly that substantially fits within an existing footprint of the patient support apparatus and does not substantially expand the footprint of the patient support apparatus.