Powered Patient Support Apparatus with Force-Sensing Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing powered patient support apparatuses are difficult to maneuver, especially in tight spaces or with heavy loads, due to the weight and bulk of the apparatus and the patient, making it challenging for caregivers to move them efficiently.
Innovation Solution
The patient support apparatus features improved controls with multiple touch points allowing caregivers to move the apparatus in various directions from anywhere around its perimeter, combined with motorized steerable wheels that adjust direction based on user input, enhancing control and maneuverability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a powered wheel is added to assist movement, then the apparatus can move heavier loads and overcome inclines, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the powered wheel mechanism with the existing patient support apparatus frame, integrating the motor and wheel assembly into the overall structure. This merging approach adds the necessary powered movement capability while minimizing the increase in device complexity by sharing structural components and control systems.
2Strength
If the apparatus is made more robust to handle heavy patients, then the strength increases, but the weight of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by utilizing high-strength, low-weight materials and optimizing the structural design to achieve maximum strength-to-weight ratio. The frame and support structures are engineered with adjusted parameters for material properties and geometric configurations that provide necessary strength while minimizing added weight.
3Device complexity
If traditional manual wheeling is used, then the device complexity remains low, but the ease of operation deteriorates when moving heavy loads or through tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The powered wheel system enables the apparatus to move itself autonomously by detecting the caregiver's pushing or pulling force on the handrail and automatically activating the motor to assist movement. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex manual steering mechanisms while significantly improving ease of operation for heavy loads and tight spaces.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the apparatus is designed for stability to support patients, then the stability increases, but the ease of operation in tight spaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the powered wheel system that adapts to different operational conditions. The system automatically adjusts motor torque, speed, and steering response based on the caregiver's input force and the spatial constraints encountered, allowing the apparatus to maintain stability during patient support while becoming more agile and easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Data Source
AI summary
Powered patient support apparatuses—such as beds, cots, stretchers, or the like—include a plurality of user controls that allow a caregiver to control the steering and/or driving of one or more powered wheels from multiple different locations around the patient support apparatus (e.g. head end, foot end, and/or the sides). The control is carried out by force sensors that detect both an orientation of the applied forces and a magnitude of the applied forces. Translational and/or rotational movement is effectuated, depending upon the magnitude and direction of the forces, as well as the physical location of the applied force relative to a reference point on the patient support apparatus, such as the center. One or more object sensors may also be included in the patient support apparatus to assist in steering and/or navigating.