Siderail Power Communication Interface for Wireless Device Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing person-support apparatuses, such as hospital beds, lack efficient power communication solutions to charge electronic devices brought by patients, limiting their functionality and convenience.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a power communication device within the siderail assembly that can communicate power wirelessly or through a connector, allowing for charging of devices without physical connection, enhancing the functionality of person-support apparatuses by providing power and data transmission capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a power communication device is integrated into the siderail assembly, then power and data transmission capabilities are provided to electronic devices, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power transmission and data communication functions into a single integrated power communication device within the siderail assembly. This merging of multiple functions (power delivery, data transmission, and device charging) into one unified interface reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby providing versatile power and data transmission capabilities while managing system complexity through integration rather than addition of separate systems
Solution Approach 2:
The power communication device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can transmit electrical power to electronic devices, communicate data between the siderail system and connected devices, and serve as a universal charging interface for various electronic devices. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require separate power outlets, data ports, and charging components, thus improving adaptability while containing complexity through consolidated design
2Ease of operation
If wireless power communication is implemented, then convenience is improved by eliminating physical connections, but reliability may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an intermediary approach by providing both wireless power communication capability and traditional wired connector options within the same siderail assembly. The wireless function serves as the primary convenient interface, while the wired connector acts as a reliable backup or alternative mode. This intermediary solution allows the system to achieve ease of operation through wireless convenience while maintaining reliability through the availability of established wired connection methods when needed
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 convenient and efficient charging of electronic devices, improving the usability and convenience of person-support apparatuses by providing a seamless power and data communication system, enhancing the user experience and device functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a power communication device configured to communicate power wirelessly to a device in communication therewith
Data Source
AI summary
A siderail assembly for a person support apparatus comprises a siderail body, a grip portion, and a power communication device. The siderail body includes a front surface, a back surface, and a side surface extending between the front surface and the back surface. The side surface defines a perimeter of the siderail body. The grip portion includes a siderail opening through a portion of the siderail body. The grip opening has an upper grip opening portion that cooperates with the side surface to define a grip. The power communication device is configured to communicate power to a device.