Patient Support Table With Nested Drive Handle and Stable Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient support apparatuses, such as surgical tables, face challenges in accurately measuring changes in weight distribution, are cumbersome to maneuver, and can be unstable and expensive to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A modular system comprising a platform supported by a support column and a base with drive wheels and load sensing/floor lift mechanisms, allowing for precise positioning and movement of the patient while ensuring stability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If permanent handles are mounted in the head or foot section to assist maneuvering, then ease of operation is improved, but the overall length of the table is extended and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle assembly is nested within the head or foot section of the table, allowing it to be stored inside the table structure when not in use. This eliminates the need for external permanent handles that would extend the table length, while still providing maneuvering assistance when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly is made movable between a stowed position (within the table) and a deployed position (extending outward for grasping). This dynamic configuration allows the table to maintain a compact length during storage and transport while providing ease of maneuvering during operation.
2Ease of operation
If hydraulic columns with telescoping block sections are used to raise and lower the patient support platform, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing cost increases and reliability deteriorates due to oil leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic system is replaced with a mechanical linkage system consisting of telescoping block sections that use mechanical interlocking rather than fluid pressure. This substitution eliminates oil leakage risks while maintaining the ability to raise and lower the platform smoothly.
Solution Approach 2:
The support column is divided into multiple telescoping block sections that can extend and retract relative to each other. This segmented mechanical structure provides controlled platform height adjustment without requiring hydraulic fluids, thereby improving reliability.
3Ease of operation
If telescoping block sections with oil in the hydraulic system are used, then ease of operation is improved, but harmful factors increase due to potential oil leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic system using oil is completely replaced with a dry mechanical linkage system using telescoping blocks. This eliminates the source of harmful oil leakage while preserving the smooth platform adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical linkage components are designed as simple, maintenance-free elements that do not require lubricating fluids. This approach eliminates ongoing maintenance needs and prevents harmful leakage, though individual components may be simpler and potentially replaceable.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for supporting or positioning a patient before, during, or after a medical procedure can include a platform configured to support at least a portion of a patient. A support column can be positioned beneath the platform. A base can be positioned beneath the support column and configured to support the support column. The base can include at least one drive wheel configured to contact a ground surface and move the platform with respect to the ground surface. A drive assist user interface module can be operatively connected to the at least one drive wheel. The drive assist user interface module can be configured to permit an operator of the system to selectively control movement of the at least one drive wheel. The drive assist user interface module can be part of or be attached to an attachment that includes a plate having a top surface. In one configuration, the top surface of the plate can be configured to extend parallel with a top surface of the platform when the attachment is attached to the platform.