Sliding Bracket Mechanism for Retractable Humidifier Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Humidification apparatuses in medical and surgical systems are often insecurely mounted, leading to safety hazards and operational inconveniences due to accidental dislodgment, obstruction, and damage when moved, as they are typically fixed on shelves which can be knocked or pulled, exposing heating elements and causing water spillage.
Innovation Solution
A bracket with a base member and a mounting member that is extensibly secured to a support structure via an extension mechanism, allowing the apparatus to be slidably mounted, featuring a cable guide to prevent obstruction, and adaptable to various mounting adapters for secure attachment to different surfaces, ensuring the apparatus can be easily extended or retracted for use and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the humidification apparatus is permanently attached to the shelf, then the apparatus is securely mounted and cannot be accidentally dislodged, but the apparatus obstructs medical personnel and prevents closure of instrument stand doors
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket enables dynamic positioning of the humidification apparatus through a sliding mechanism along the shelf. The apparatus can be moved between a retracted position (when not in use) and an extended position (when access is needed), transforming a static permanent mounting into a dynamic adjustable system that resolves the contradiction between secure mounting and ease of access
2Ease of operation
If the humidification apparatus is moved with the instrument stand, then the apparatus remains accessible, but the apparatus may be knocked or damaged during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding bracket mechanism allows the apparatus to be dynamically repositioned to a secure retracted position during instrument stand movement, reducing the risk of damage while maintaining accessibility during stationary use
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is segmented into a movable apparatus portion and a fixed bracket portion attached to the shelf. This segmentation allows the apparatus to be independently positioned - extended for access during stationary use, and retracted for protection during movement - resolving the contradiction between accessibility and stability
3Reliability
If additional shelving is added above and beside the humidification apparatus, then the apparatus is better supported, but access to the apparatus is impeded
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding mechanism allows the apparatus to be retracted into the available space within the shelving structure when not in use, maintaining full support from the shelving while eliminating obstruction to personnel movement and door closure
4Ease of operation
If the humidification apparatus is placed on a shelf, then the apparatus is easily accessible, but the apparatus may be knocked or pulled off exposing heating elements and causing water spillage
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket acts as an intermediary mounting mechanism between the shelf and the humidification apparatus. It provides secure attachment while allowing controlled movement, preventing accidental dislodgment and the associated safety hazards while maintaining accessibility
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic sliding mechanism allows the apparatus to be securely mounted when extended for access, and safely retracted when not in use, eliminating the safety hazards of exposed heating elements and water spillage while maintaining ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket for extensibly mounting a medical or surgical apparatus, and more particularly a humidification apparatus, to a support structure. The bracket comprises a base member securable to the support structure, a mounting member to which the humidification apparatus may be secured, and an extension mechanism moveably engaging the base member and the mounting member. The mounting member is reversibly extensible from a retracted position substantially proximate the base member to an extended position projecting beyond the base member. Also disclosed are a humidification apparatus and a support stand each comprising the extensible bracket.