Spring Arm Linkage With Fine Load Adjustment for Wider Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pendant systems in medical settings have limited range of motion and versatility in accommodating devices of varying sizes and weights, restricting the positioning of diagnostic equipment and other healthcare devices.
Innovation Solution
A fixed positioning mechanism for spring arms comprising a base link, load link, and transfer link with fine and coarse adjustment mechanisms, allowing a wide range of motion and precise weight balancing, enabling the spring arm to move up to 120 degrees and accommodate a variety of device loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional spring arm mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the range of motion is limited and cannot accommodate devices of varying sizes and weights
Solution Approach 1:
The spring arm mechanism is divided into multiple independent links (base link, load link, transfer link) that can move relative to each other, enabling a wider range of motion while maintaining structural manageability through modular segmentation
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism incorporates both coarse adjustment (compression member) and fine adjustment (fine load adjustment) features in a single integrated structure, allowing it to accommodate devices of varying weights and positions through multiple adjustment stages, achieving multi-functionality
2Ease of operation
If the spring arm is designed for wide range of motion, then positioning flexibility is improved, but maintaining stable positioning and balancing varying weights becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism transitions from a static spring arm to a dynamic system with multiple adjustable links, where the fine load adjustment and compression member allow real-time adaptation to different device weights and positions, maintaining stability through dynamic reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism changes physical parameters (preload force, link positions) through coarse and fine adjustments to adapt to different device weights, enabling stable positioning across a wide range of conditions by modifying structural parameters
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustment mechanisms are added for precise weight balancing, then device accommodation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fine load adjustment mechanism is nested within the load link structure, and the compression member is integrated into the transfer link, creating a compact nested arrangement that provides multiple adjustment capabilities without proportionally increasing overall complexity
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 mechanism provides enhanced flexibility and positioning capabilities, allowing the spring arm to support a wide range of devices with precise weight adjustment, exceeding the limitations of prior art systems by enabling a 120-degree range of motion and ensuring stable device positioning.
Implementation Method 1
a spring situated over said rod assembly
Implementation Method 2
the gravitational force acting on the device will be balanced by the spring
Data Source
AI summary
A fixed positioning mechanism for a spring arm of a pendant system comprises a base link, a load link, and a transfer link. The base link and transfer link share a first pivot. The load link comprises a fine load adjustment adjacent the first pivot. A second pivot at the fine load adjustment. The transfer link comprises a slidable rod assembly having a first end and a second end, a spring situated over the rod assembly, and a third pivot mounted on the first end. The load link comprises a curved or offset body such that rotation of the transfer link below horizontal allows the base link to intersect a plane defined by the second and third pivot.