Wireless Patient Repositioning Control With Ratcheted Sheet Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for repositioning patients on patient support apparatuses, such as hospital beds, require manual effort and can be cumbersome, especially for larger patients, often necessitating multiple caregivers and potentially straining the bed's weighing system during non-use.
Innovation Solution
A wireless-controlled pull-up-in-bed system that includes a retractor, tether, and sheet attachment device with a ratchet mechanism and roller, allowing for controlled repositioning of patients using a sheet, reducing manual effort and minimizing interference with the bed's weighing system during non-use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual repositioning methods are used, then caregivers can reposition patients, but the process becomes labor-intensive and increases injury risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical repositioning with an automated mechanical system consisting of a motorized reel, tether, and draw sheet. The motorized reel automatically winds the tether to pull the patient along the bed, eliminating the need for caregivers to manually grip and pull the patient, thereby reducing labor intensity while maintaining repositioning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a draw sheet as an intermediary element between the patient and the repositioning system. The tether attaches to the draw sheet, which in turn contacts the patient, allowing the motorized system to move the patient indirectly. This intermediary approach enables controlled, gentle movement while protecting both the patient and the mechanical system
2Extent of automation
If automated repositioning systems are implemented, then labor requirements are reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the repositioning system into distinct functional modules: a motorized reel unit for automated tether winding, a tether for force transmission, a draw sheet for patient contact, and a ratchet mechanism for controlled movement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, making the overall automated system more manageable and easier to implement
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet mechanism provides automatic one-way locking without requiring active control or monitoring. Once the motorized reel winds the tether to move the patient, the ratchet automatically maintains the new position without needing continuous power or intervention. This self-locking feature reduces the complexity of control systems while maintaining automated functionality
3Reliability
If patients are moved manually, then repositioning can be performed, but safety risks increase for both patients and caregivers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual handling with a motorized reel system that provides controlled, consistent force through the tether and draw sheet. This eliminates the unpredictable forces and potential for caregiver injury associated with manual lifting and pulling, while also preventing patient discomfort from rough handling
Solution Approach 2:
The draw sheet acts as a cushioning intermediary between the mechanical tether system and the patient's body. It distributes the pulling force across a larger surface area of the patient, preventing concentrated pressure points and skin damage, while also protecting the patient from the direct mechanical action of the reel and tether
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
Enables efficient and controlled repositioning of patients with reduced manual effort, minimizing strain on the bed's weighing system and allowing for wireless operation of various bed functions, enhancing patient care and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The sheet attachment device may include a ratchet mechanism which permits rotation of the roller relative to the U-shaped frame in a first rotational direction and impeding rotation of the roller in a second, and opposite direction
Implementation Method 2
The release mechanism may be biased toward the engaged position by a spring
Implementation Method 3
In other embodiments, a wrap spring may be provided to lock the roller from rotating relative to the frame
Implementation Method 4
The retracting pin may be configured to engage an edge of a lug on a headboard of the patient support apparatus to retain the sheet attachment device onto the headboard
Implementation Method 5
The roller may have a pliable external surface to provide improved gripping of the sheet to the roller during engagement of the sheet and roller
Data Source
AI summary
A patient support apparatus comprising a wireless control system is provided. The wireless control system includes a device for sending a wireless signal, a receiver for receiving the wireless signal, and circuitry for processing the wireless signal. The circuitry may have a learn mode in which a device is associated with the control signal to the exclusion of commands from other devices not associated with the circuitry. Also, the device may transmit a wireless signal redundantly over a plurality of frequencies. The control system may choose a signal frequency and receiver combination to maintain a quality signal. The device may be limited provide commands to operate a function of the patient support apparatus only when the function has been enabled through a sequence of input activations. The wireless control system is capable of controlling any of a number of functions associated with the patient support apparatus. Illustratively, the control system operates a patient repositioning apparatus. The repositioning apparatus includes a retractor, a tether coupled to the retractor and configured to be retracted by the retractor, and a sheet attachment device coupled to the tether opposite the retractor, the sheet attachment device configured to engage a sheet on the patient support apparatus. The sheet attachment device includes a user interface configured to provide wireless inputs to the retractor. The retractor includes a controller configured to receive inputs, process the inputs, and provide outputs to activate the retractor.