Dual-Column Surgical Table Brake Linkage for Precise Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgical tables and other patient support apparatuses are often difficult to adjust prior to and during surgery, which can hinder proper patient positioning and stability.
Innovation Solution
A patient support apparatus featuring a caster with a brake drive and linkage system that allows for easy adjustment and locking of the table, enabling precise positioning and movement of patients during surgical procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a surgical table uses a traditional braking system, then the table can be locked in position, but the table becomes difficult to adjust prior to and during surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The braking system transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic adjustable state through the linear actuator. The linkage mechanism allows the brake to dynamically respond to actuator movement, enabling smooth transitions between locked and unlocked positions without manual force or complex procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical braking systems with an actuated system. The linear actuator uses motorized or powered movement to control the brake, substituting manual mechanical adjustment with automated actuation. This allows precise control of the braking element's position through the linkage mechanism.
2Measurement precision
If a surgical table uses a complex adjustment mechanism, then precise positioning is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage serves as an intermediary mechanism between the linear actuator and the brake. It translates the linear motion of the actuator into the appropriate movement of the braking element, providing precise control without requiring a complex direct connection. The linkage acts as a mechanical translator that simplifies the overall control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The braking system is segmented into distinct functional components: the linear actuator for powered movement, the linkage for motion transmission, and the braking element for position locking. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system precision and reducing complexity through modular design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a surgical table allows adjustment during surgery, then patient positioning flexibility is improved, but the stability and security of patient support may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The braking system provides self-service functionality by automatically maintaining the locked position through the actuator's positioning action. Once the actuator moves to the desired position, the linkage automatically engages the brake to hold that position stable without requiring continuous input or additional stabilization mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter of the brake from a fixed locked state to a controllable positioned state. The linear actuator modifies the brake's engagement parameter dynamically, allowing the system to transition between high-stability locked positions and adjustable positions as needed during surgical 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
The system facilitates efficient and precise adjustment and locking of the patient support apparatus, ensuring stable and secure patient positioning throughout surgical operations.
Implementation Method 1
The brake drive may include a mount and a linear actuator coupled to the mount. The linear actuator may move from a retracted position to an extended position relative to the mount.
Implementation Method 2
The linkage may include a spring coupled to the shaft and the mount. The spring may be configured to move the shaft when the shaft is released from the linear actuator by the release assembly.
Implementation Method 3
a braking element movable from a disengaged position allowing rotation of the wheel relative to the stem to an engaged position blocking the wheel from rotation relative to the stem
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical patient support includes a foundation frame, a support top, and a brake system. The foundation frame includes a first column and a second column. The support top is coupled to the first column and the second column for rotation about a top axis extending along the length of the support top. A single-handle unlock for the support top is also provided.