Single-Column Patient Positioning Structure for Stable Articulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surgical tables with sliding chest platforms risk dislodging tracheal tubes and introducing pressure points on patients' heads during articulation, posing safety hazards and complications.
Innovation Solution
A surgical table with a single column support structure featuring a rigid outer frame and an articulating inner frame, coupled via a sliding and pivoting hinge, allows the patient's upper body to remain stationary while articulating, eliminating the need for a sliding chest platform and minimizing the risk of tube dislodgement and pressure points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a sliding chest platform is used to articulate the surgical table, then the table can be positioned in different orientations, but the patient's torso moves along the table causing tracheal tube dislodgement and pressure points on the head
Solution Approach 1:
The surgical table is divided into two independent support columns: a first support column that remains stationary to hold the patient's head and upper torso, and a second support column that articulates to position the patient's lower body. This segmentation allows table articulation while keeping the patient's head stationary, preventing tracheal tube dislodgement and pressure points.
2Device complexity
If a single column support structure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to articulate the patient support structure may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single support column is designed with dynamic articulation capability, allowing it to pivot and translate to different positions. The column can articulate the patient support structure into various orientations (Trendelenburg, reverse Trendelenburg, lateral positions) while maintaining structural integrity, thus providing versatility without requiring multiple static columns.
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
The solution ensures stable patient positioning with reduced risk of equipment dislodgement and pressure points, enhancing safety and operational efficiency during surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The hinge is configured to translate during pivoting in order to compensate for the movement associated with the bending of the patient's body
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical table for supporting a patient over a floor and including a base assembly, a support column assembly and a patient support structure. The base assembly supported on the floor and including a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a member extending along a base longitudinal axis between the first and second ends. The support column assembly moveably coupled with the base assembly and configured to translate between the first and second ends of the base assembly along the member extending therebetween, the support column assembly being the only support column assembly coupled with the base assembly. The patient support structure including a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends, the second end of the patient support structure supported off of the support column assembly in a cantilevered fashion.