Sterile Operating Table Extension via Rotating Support Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for extending operating tables to accommodate surgical support devices like knee positioners require additional sterilization steps when positioning within the sterile field, which is inconvenient and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A removable flat table extension is attached to the operating table via a support mechanism that allows the extension to be positioned within the sterile field, using a semicircular extension with apertures and threaded support bars to rotate and secure the extension beneath the operating table, enabling the placement of surgical support devices like knee positioners without compromising sterility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a portable table assembly is positioned outside the operating table sterile field, then the extension is readily accessible, but the surgical support devices cannot be placed within the sterile field without additional sterilization

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAccessibility of extensionVSAvoidPlacement within sterile field

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support mechanism includes a first clamp attachable to the operating table, a first vertical post, a first crossbar, and a second clamp, allowing modular assembly. This segmentation enables flexible positioning of the extension table to accommodate both sterile and non-sterile requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the extension is attached within the sterile field, then surgical support devices can be positioned without additional sterilization, but the attachment mechanism must maintain sterility

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovePlacement within sterile fieldVSAvoidMaintenance of sterility

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The sterile drape is positioned over the operating table support leg. The clamp attaches to the support leg outside the sterile field, while the extension table extends into the sterile field. The drape acts as a barrier maintaining sterility while enabling attachment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the extension is made removable and adjustable, then flexibility in positioning is improved, but the complexity of the support mechanism increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovePositioning flexibilityVSAvoidSupport mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The first vertical post and second vertical post have adjustable heights. The first crossbar can be positioned at different locations along the first vertical post. The clamps can be attached at various points on the operating table, providing dynamic adjustability for different surgical needs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8132278B1Sterile operating table extension

Publication Date: 2012.03.13 INNOVATIVE MEDICAL PRODS

AI summary

A flat table extension is removably attached to one end of an operating table via a support mechanism that is connected with one of the operating table support legs.The support mechanism includes a pair of support posts, one of which is rotated from a first position parallel with the operating table to a second position lower than the operating table to lower the table extension as required.