Pivoting Footrest Extension for Patient Table Lowering
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient tables lack efficient mechanisms for lowering to accommodate patients from wheelchairs and do not provide adequate support for varying patient sizes, with footrest extensions often interfering with the lowering process.
Innovation Solution
A patient table with a pivotally mounted footrest extension that can be securely locked in both patient-supporting and stowed positions, featuring a spring-loaded plunger mechanism and bumpers to prevent inadvertent actuation, and a switch to prevent table-floor contact during lowering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a footrest extension is attached to provide support for lower extremities when the table is in the raised position, then patient support capability is improved, but the footrest extension interferes with lowering the table to a wheelchair accessible position
Solution Approach 1:
The footrest extension is designed to be movable between a deployed position (coplanar with the leg section) and a stowed position (pivoted 180 degrees up under the leg section). This dynamic configuration allows the footrest to adapt between providing patient support and clearing the path for table lowering, resolving the contradiction between support capability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The footrest extension is separated from the main table structure through a pivotal connection, allowing it to be independently positioned. This segmentation enables the footrest to be moved out of the way during table lowering while remaining attached for patient support during elevated positions.
2Reliability
If a lock mechanism is provided to secure the footrest in operable and stowed positions, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism utilizes the footrest's own weight and position to automatically engage the locking sockets. When the footrest is in either the deployed or stowed position, gravity causes it to naturally settle into the locking position, eliminating the need for manual locking operations and reducing complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
A spring-loaded plunger acts as an intermediary between the footrest and the locking sockets. The plunger automatically engages with the sockets to secure the footrest in position, providing reliable locking without requiring complex manual mechanisms. The spring provides the necessary force for engagement while allowing easy release when needed.
3Ease of operation
If the footrest is made movable to clear the lowering path, then ease of operation is improved, but the risk of inadvertent actuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
Bumpers are positioned adjacent to the lock release mechanisms to prevent inadvertent actuation. These bumpers create a physical barrier that must be deliberately overcome, providing preliminary protection against accidental release while allowing intentional operation when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded plunger mechanism provides a cushioning effect that requires deliberate force to compress and release the lock. This beforehand cushioning prevents accidental disengagement while allowing easy intentional operation, as the spring naturally returns to its locked position after release.
4Reliability
If a switch is added to prevent inadvertent contact of the table with the floor, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch mechanism utilizes the footrest's own movement as the actuating force. When the footrest is moved to the stowed position, it automatically engages the switch, which then controls the table lowering mechanism. This self-service approach provides safety without requiring external sensors or complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The switch function is merged with the footrest positioning mechanism. The same physical movement that stows the footrest also activates the safety switch, combining two functions into a single mechanical action and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining safety.
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
Enables easy patient transfer by allowing the table to be lowered without footrest interference, providing adjustable support for different patient sizes while preventing accidental table contact with the floor.
Implementation Method 1
The lock includes a spring-loaded plunger engageable in sockets formed in the linkage interconnecting the footrest and leg section
Data Source
AI summary
A vertically moveable patient table is provided with a footrest extension that may be locked in either an operative, extended position or a stowed position beneath an adjacent leg section of the table. In the stowed position the footrest extension actuates a switch which permits the table to be moved freely up and down. However, when the footrest extension is in any position other than stowed, movement of the table is restricted to prevent accidental contact of the footrest extension with a floor or other supporting surface as the table is lowered.