Patient Table Guide Layout for Off-Center Load Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tables for supporting patients, particularly those with telescoping extensions, lack stability and are prone to tipping or tilting under off-center loads due to inadequate spacing adjustment mechanisms between the tabletop and base units.
Innovation Solution
The table incorporates first and second adjustment units with a guide unit positioned between them, allowing for precise control of spacing and guiding movement, ensuring that at least 50% of the guide unit is between the adjustment units, thereby enhancing stability by maintaining balance even with off-center loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the guide unit is positioned between the first and second adjustment units, then the stability of the table is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide unit acts as an intermediary element positioned between the first and second adjustment units. It provides a structured path for movement while distributing mechanical loads across multiple points, thereby enhancing stability without requiring complex reinforcement of individual components. The guide unit mediates the interaction between the adjustment units and the tabletop, ensuring controlled movement and load distribution.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the spacing between the first adjustment unit and the longitudinal end of the base is reduced, then the stability against tipping movements is improved, but the adjustment range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into multiple independent adjustment units distributed along the base. By having at least a first and second adjustment unit, the system can maintain a compact overall spacing for stability while each individual unit retains its full adjustment capability. The segmented approach allows the tabletop to be adjusted at multiple points, effectively increasing the total adjustment range without requiring increased spacing between units.
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
This configuration achieves a stable and inexpensive construction that prevents tipping or tilting, ensuring the table remains stable even when partially extended or loaded unevenly, with a reduced risk of instability during use, such as in medical procedures like MRI scans.
Implementation Method 1
The first adjustment unit (14) includes a first and a second lead screw or threaded spindle (38, 40) and a drive (32) such as a motor.
Data Source
AI summary
A table for supporting a recumbent patient includes at least one tabletop unit, at least one ground contact unit for supporting the tabletop unit, a first and at least one second adjustment unit for changing a spacing between the ground contact unit and the tabletop unit, and at least one first guide unit for guiding movement of the tabletop unit relative to a the ground contact unit, where at least a part of the guide unit is disposed between the first and the at least one second adjustment unit.