Variable Geometry Bed Surface for Patient Repositioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solutions for preventing pressure wounds in bedridden patients are inefficient, as they often require multiple caregivers and significant physical effort to turn and reposition patients, and existing technologies do not adequately address the need for frequent position changes to prevent pressure wounds, leading to potential discomfort and increased risk of wounds.
Innovation Solution
A variable geometry support surface that can change shape to turn and centralize a patient using gravity, with a movement control system and position detection, allowing for automatic or manual control to reposition the patient without physical restrictions, thereby reducing pressure points and enhancing comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual turning methods are used with multiple caregivers, then patient repositioning can be achieved, but the physical effort required by caregivers increases and the frequency of position changes decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The support surface automatically performs patient repositioning through its variable geometry mechanism, eliminating the need for manual intervention by caregivers. The system serves itself by detecting patient position and autonomously adjusting the support surface to change patient positioning, thereby increasing the frequency of position changes without additional physical effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of caregivers physically turning patients with an automated mechanical system. The support surface uses a controlled geometry-changing mechanism (including panels, hinges, and actuators) to automatically reposition the patient, substituting human physical effort with an automated mechanical装置.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the support surface is made rigid for structural stability, then manufacturing is simpler, but the ability to change geometry for patient repositioning is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The support surface is divided into multiple segmented panels that can independently move relative to each other. These panels are connected through hinges or joints, allowing each segment to adjust its position while maintaining overall structural integrity. This segmentation enables geometry changes for patient repositioning without requiring a completely complex redesign of the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The support surface transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic adjustable structure. The panels and hinges are designed to provide controlled movement and adaptability, allowing the support surface to change its geometry dynamically in response to patient positioning needs while maintaining sufficient structural stability during operation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If frequent patient repositioning is implemented to prevent pressure wounds, then pressure wound risk decreases, but the workload of patient attendants increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors and detection mechanisms that monitor patient position, pressure distribution, and movement status. This feedback information is processed by a control system that automatically adjusts the support surface geometry to maintain optimal positioning and prevent pressure wounds, reducing the need for complex manual monitoring and intervention by attendants.
Solution Approach 2:
The support surface system performs multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables patient repositioning, monitors patient status through integrated sensors, and controls geometry changes automatically. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate devices and manual operations into a single integrated system, reducing overall complexity despite the advanced capabilities.
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 solution effectively reduces the risk of pressure wounds by allowing for frequent and comfortable repositioning of patients, minimizing physical effort required by caregivers and enhancing patient comfort, while also reducing the risk of injury to caregivers.
Implementation Method 1
a variable geometry surface attached to the frame; a movement control system varying shape of the variable geometry surface... the patient being turned by gravity on the concave surface
Data Source
AI summary
Device and method for turning a bedridden and immobile patient from left to right and vice-versa. It lessens the risk pressure wounds (bed wound, pressure sore). The device comprises a support surface having a variable geometry to create concave surfaces along the bed. The lowermost zone is formed to the left or to the right of the spine of the patient. Under the effect of gravity, the patient is turned towards the lowermost zone, softly. Once turned, the device also allows the centralisation of the patient towards the middle of the frame. The device may also laterally extend to give more space to a turned patient. By combining the shape change with a timer system, corporal pressure zones of the patient are cyclically displaced. It allows the turning of the patient based on current standards of care.