Medical Support Arm Linkage for Constant Device Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical device pedestals do not allow easy adjustment or locking of medical devices like retina scanners, leading to user fatigue and inconvenience during long procedures.
Innovation Solution
A system with a base, actuator, linkage, and locking mechanism that maintains the medical device's orientation constant while allowing easy raising and lowering, using a gas cylinder and timing link to rotate the support arm and maintain parallel orientation relative to the base.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing medical device pedestals are used, then the device structure is simple, but the practitioner experiences fatigue and inconvenience when holding the device for long periods
Solution Approach 1:
The pedestal incorporates a support arm that can dynamically adjust between extended and retracted positions, allowing the medical device to be positioned at different heights and locations. This dynamic capability enables the device to adapt to different operational needs while maintaining stability when positioned, thereby improving ease of operation without requiring overly complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the position of the support arm, reducing the need for manual intervention. The mechanism self-regulates to maintain the medical device at the desired position, freeing the practitioner from continuous manual adjustment and reducing fatigue during long procedures.
2Reliability
If existing pedestals without locking mechanisms are used, then the structure remains simple, but the device cannot be securely fixed at various positions
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism utilizes a cam-based system that converts rotational motion into linear locking action. This mechanical substitution provides reliable positioning at various heights through a compact design, achieving high reliability without requiring complex electronic or hydraulic systems.
3Ease of operation
If the medical device is held manually for long periods, then no additional positioning mechanisms are needed, but user fatigue increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The pedestal system segments the positioning function into distinct components: the support arm for height adjustment, the locking mechanism for position fixation, and the mounting interface for device attachment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing the overall effort required to position and maintain the medical device during prolonged procedures.
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
Reduces user fatigue by enabling effortless adjustment and locking of medical devices, ensuring constant orientation and reducing the effort required to position them during procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a gas cylinder configured to transition between an extended state and a retracted state
Implementation Method 2
a timing link having a first end pivotably connected to the base and a second end coupled to the support arm
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a base, and an actuator having a first end and a second end. The system also includes a shaft configured to rotate relative to the base, and a drive link fixed to the shaft. The system further includes a support arm. A first end of the support arm being fixed to the shaft such that rotation of the shaft causes commensurate rotation of the support arm. The system also includes a timing link having a first end pivotably connected to the base and a second end opposite the first end. Additionally, the system includes a mount coupled to the second end of the timing link. The mount is configured to maintain a substantially constant orientation relative to the base as the support arm transitions between a raised position and a lowered position.