Siderail Wireless Power Interface for Bedside Device Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing person-support apparatuses, such as hospital beds, lack efficient methods for charging electronic devices brought by patients, as they often require manual recharging and do not offer wireless power transmission options.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a power communication device into the siderail of a person-support apparatus that can communicate power both wiredly and wirelessly to devices, including a siderail communication system with inductive coils and various interfaces for data and power transmission, allowing for the charging of devices without physical connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual recharging is used for electronic devices, then device charging is possible, but user convenience deteriorates and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic wireless charging where the electronic device charges itself when placed on the support surface, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The power transmission automatically activates when a device is detected and continues until charging is complete.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical plugging and cable handling with wireless electromagnetic field-based power transmission. The inductive charging system uses electromagnetic induction to transfer power without physical contact, substituting the mechanical charging process.
2Ease of operation
If wireless power transmission is implemented, then charging convenience is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support surface is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a mechanical support structure and a wireless power transmission interface. The same surface that supports the patient also contains the power transmission coils, eliminating the need for separate charging infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the support structure and power transmission system into a single integrated unit. The coils and power transmission components are embedded within the siderail structure, merging two separate systems (mechanical support and wireless charging) into one unified device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If power communication device is added to siderail, then power transmission capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power transmission system is divided into modular components including separate coils, control circuits, and integration layers that can be manufactured independently and then assembled into the final siderail unit, simplifying the manufacturing process.
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 power transmission to electronic devices, enhancing the usability of person-support apparatuses by providing wireless charging capabilities and reducing the need for manual recharging, thus improving the user experience.
Implementation Method 1
a siderail communication system with inductive coils and various interfaces for data and power transmission, allowing for the charging of devices without physical connection
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 wirelessly to a device in communication therewith.