stretcher
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stretchers are uncomfortable for obese people and pregnant women in prone decubitus position, as they fail to adequately adjust to the patient's trunk shape, leading to discomfort and inefficiency in treatment.
Innovation Solution
A stretcher with a support element featuring pressure sensors that adjust the contact surface height based on pressure distribution, using inflatable pneumatic or concentric cushions, controlled by a compressor and valves or a pusher mechanism, to accommodate varying trunk shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed rigid stretcher surface is used, then the structural stability is maintained, but the comfort and adaptability for patients with different trunk shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the fixed rigid stretcher surface with a dynamic, adjustable support element that can change its shape and height. The support element incorporates pressure sensors and height adjustment mechanisms that allow it to adapt its configuration in real-time based on the patient's trunk shape, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that responds to patient needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the physical parameters of the support element, specifically its height and shape. The height adjustment device changes the vertical position of the contact surface, while the pressure sensor system detects pressure distribution to determine optimal adjustments. These parameter changes enable the support element to accommodate various trunk shapes and sizes.
2Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of support height is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation and treatment efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the feedback principle by incorporating pressure sensors that continuously monitor the pressure distribution between the support element and the patient's trunk. This pressure information is fed back to the control system, which automatically adjusts the height of the contact surface to optimize comfort and support. The feedback loop eliminates the need for manual trial-and-error adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the support element to automatically adjust its own height based on pressure sensor input. The system monitors the pressure distribution and autonomously modifies the contact surface height without requiring operator intervention, making the device self-regulating and responsive to patient needs in real-time.
3Measurement precision
If no pressure sensing system is used, then the device complexity is minimized, but the measurement precision of pressure distribution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the pressure sensing function into multiple discrete pressure sensors positioned at different locations on or within the support element. This segmented approach allows the system to detect pressure distribution across different zones of the patient's trunk, providing detailed spatial information about pressure points and areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical assessment of patient comfort with an electronic pressure sensing system. Instead of relying on operator observation or manual adjustment, the system uses electronic sensors to objectively measure pressure distribution and automatically translates this data into height adjustment commands, substituting mechanical intuition with precise electronic measurement and control.
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 stretcher provides improved ergonomics, reduces pressure on sensitive areas, and adapts to different trunk shapes and stages of gestation, enhancing comfort and treatment efficacy for obese, pregnant, and special needs patients.
Implementation Method 1
one or more pressure sensor/s, located in contact with the contact surface of the support element
Implementation Method 2
The support element may consist of an inflatable pneumatic cushion configured to be inflated with air
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
It has a resting surface (2) with an opening (3) in correspondence with the area intended to support the user's trunk, in which there is a support element which has a contact surface (6, 60). It also has a height adjustment device (5, 50) of the contact surface (6, 60) and pressure sensors (7) located at different points on the contact surface (6, 60), intended to detect the pressure exerted by the support element on different points on the user's trunk, and a control unit (8) which receives signals from the pressure sensors (7) and, depending on them, acts on the height adjustment device (5, 50), modifying the height of the contact surface (6, 60) to the shape of the user's trunk.