Pivot Jaw Strap Clamp for One-Handed Rail Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rail clamps are unable to securely attach straps to the side rail of an operating table at any point along its length, require two-handed operation, and fail to prevent patient slippage during surgical procedures, especially in angled positions, leading to potential tissue and nerve damage.
Innovation Solution
A clamp assembly that can be single-handedly operated and securely attaches to the rail at any point, featuring a pivot jaw assembly and swivel screw mechanism to clamp straps to the rail, ensuring patient stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional rail clamps are used to secure straps to the side rail, then the device structure is simple, but the clamp cannot attach at any point along the rail and requires two-handed operation
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly incorporates a pivot jaw assembly that can rotate between open and closed positions, allowing the operator to easily open the jaw with one hand to engage the rail, then tighten the strap. The dynamic positioning capability enables single-handed operation while maintaining secure attachment at any rail location.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly is divided into distinct functional components: a body portion with a channel, a pivot jaw assembly with clamping surfaces, and a swivel screw mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling easy assembly and disassembly for single-handed operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional rail clamps are used, then the device is simple to manufacture, but the clamp cannot securely attach straps at any point along the rail length
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is designed as a universal attachment device that can secure straps at any position along the entire length of the side rail. The body portion with its channel and the pivot jaw assembly create a standardized interface that accommodates various strap positions, making the device versatile for different patient positioning requirements.
3Reliability
If straps are secured using conventional methods, then the setup is simple, but patient slippage occurs during steep Trendelenburg positions
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is designed to pre-load and securely clamp the strap to the rail before the surgical procedure begins. The pivot jaw assembly, when tightened, creates a firm mechanical connection that prevents any movement or slippage of the patient during steep Trendelenburg positions, ensuring reliable positioning throughout the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The swivel screw mechanism incorporates a swivel foot with a spherical interface that allows for angular adjustment and secure engagement with the rail. This curved, spherical connection provides superior mechanical advantage and prevents slippage under the gravitational forces experienced during steep Trendelenburg positioning.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional clamps are used, then the device is simple, but patient re-positioning is required during surgical procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is designed to maintain its clamping force automatically once tightened, with the pivot jaw assembly and swivel screw mechanism creating a self-locking effect. This allows the patient position to be maintained throughout the entire surgical procedure without requiring additional operation or adjustment, providing long-duration stable positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping device configured to secure a strap to a rail of a support table or operating table is provided, which prevents the patient from slipping, provides optimal patient stability when the table is placed in angle positions, and eliminates patient re-positioning during surgical procedure. The clamping device includes a body portion having a plurality of rail arms that form a rail channel, the clamping device including a pivot jaw assembly with jaw rail flange portions coupled to sides of the body portion. The pivot jaw is configured for sterilizability and to be operated with one hand. The rail arms further include a strap channel configured to hold a strap disposed around the side rail, and to secure the strap to the rail using a clamp bar via force exerted on rail and jaw flange portions of the clamp assembly, to effectively clamp the strap to the table.