Coordinated User Input Devices for Patient Transport Drive Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional patient transport apparatuses face challenges in accessibility and usability of user input devices, particularly when the drive wheel is inaccessible due to the device's location, such as when the head end is against a wall, making it difficult for caregivers to operate the apparatus without exerting substantial force.
Innovation Solution
The patient transport apparatus incorporates a drive wheel assembly with a lift actuator and a powered drive system, along with user interfaces like handles and throttles that can be accessed from various locations, allowing for easier movement and control, including the use of touch sensors and indicators to select active throttles and coordinate multiple user input devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the user input device is located at the head end of the patient transport apparatus, then the powered drive system can be controlled, but the device becomes inaccessible when the head end is against a wall
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into multiple independent user input devices distributed at different locations on the patient transport apparatus. Instead of having a single input device at the head end, the patent provides input devices at both the head end and foot end, allowing caregivers to operate the apparatus from either location depending on spatial constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the control interface from a single-point location (head end only) to multiple spatial dimensions by placing input devices at both ends of the apparatus. This dimensional expansion allows caregivers to access controls from various positions around the apparatus, not just from the front.
2Ease of operation
If multiple user input devices are provided for controlling the drive wheel, then accessibility is improved, but coordination between devices is required to prevent conflicting commands
Solution Approach 1:
The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the state of each user input device and the current operation mode. The processor detects which device is actively being used and adjusts system responses accordingly, providing feedback to ensure coordinated operation and prevent conflicting commands from multiple input devices.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple user input devices are designed with identical functionality and control capabilities, allowing either device to independently control the powered drive system. This universal design ensures that both input devices can perform the same functions without requiring complex differentiation or specialized coordination protocols.
3Force
If the drive wheel is used to move the patient transport apparatus down long hallways, then movement assistance is provided, but the apparatus may experience 'dog tracking' without proper steering control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the drive wheel function with the steering control system by integrating the powered drive system with the existing caster wheel steering mechanism. This integration ensures that when the drive wheel provides powered movement assistance, the steering system remains coordinated and responsive, preventing dog tracking by maintaining proper alignment between drive force and directional control.
Data Source
AI summary
A patient transport apparatus transports a patient over a floor surface. The patient transport apparatus includes a support structure and a drive wheel assembly having at least one drive wheel, a powered drive system coupled to the at least one drive wheel, and at least two user input devices. The apparatus also includes a controller coupled to the powered drive system and user input devices configured to determine which one of the user input devices is active and operable to cause the powered drive system to rotate the drive wheel and to maintain the other user input device as inactive, or passive.