Dual-Column Surgical Table Rotation Unlock and Caster Braking
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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 braking system and linkage mechanism that allows for controlled movement and locking of the caster wheels, enabling precise adjustment and stabilization of the patient support surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a surgical table allows adjustment of the table prior to and during surgery, then patient positioning capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple adjustment functions (rotation, elevation, positioning) into a single integrated table structure that can be controlled through unified mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatile patient positioning capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical table employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the table to be easily reconfigured between different positions (prone, supine, lateral) during surgery, enabling adaptability without requiring complex fixed-position structures for each configuration
2Reliability
If a brake drive with linear actuator is used to control caster braking, then casting stability control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake drive system incorporates a release assembly with spring-loaded mechanisms that automatically engage and disengage brake elements, allowing the system to self-regulate caster stability without requiring complex external control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism acts as an intermediary between the linear actuator and the brake elements, translating linear actuator motion into rotational motion of the brake elements through a coupling shaft and release assembly, simplifying the overall control architecture
3Measurement precision
If a linkage mechanism is used to transfer linear actuator motion to braking element, then motion control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling shaft serves as an intermediary component that receives linear motion from the linear actuator through the release assembly and converts it into rotational motion of the brake elements, providing precise motion control through a simple mechanical transformation
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism employs periodic engagement and disengagement of the release assembly with the coupling shaft, allowing controlled transfer of motion in discrete steps that enhance precision while keeping the mechanism simple
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
Facilitates easy and precise adjustment of the patient support surface, ensuring proper patient positioning and stability during surgery, while also allowing for manual release in case of power failure.
Implementation Method 1
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.
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.