Automated X-ray Cassette Mover for Bedside Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for positioning X-ray cassettes in healthcare settings, particularly in ICU environments, require manual effort from caregivers, leading to strain and equipment damage, and lack efficient automation for precise placement behind patients.
Innovation Solution
A patient support apparatus with an integrated X-ray cassette mover, utilizing electric motors, threaded lead screws, and sensors to automate the positioning of X-ray cassettes relative to patients, ensuring accurate placement behind the patient's back for chest X-rays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual methods are used to position the X-ray cassette behind the patient's back, then the procedure can be completed, but caregiver strain and equipment wear increase due to the force required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical system with an automated mechanical system. A motorized actuator positioned at the foot of the bed automatically moves the X-ray cassette from a storage position to a position behind the patient's back, eliminating the need for caregivers to manually lift and position the heavy cassette while moving the patient.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the X-ray positioning to be performed automatically without human physical intervention. The motorized mechanism independently handles the cassette positioning task, freeing caregivers from this physically demanding routine task.
2Reliability
If manual positioning is used, then the X-ray cassette can be placed, but mattress cover tears or damaged cassettes occur from the force required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the high-force manual insertion method with a low-force automated mechanical system. The motorized actuator gently pushes the cassette into position behind the patient's back, eliminating the high insertion forces that cause mattress cover tears and cassette damage.
3Ease of operation
If automated positioning is implemented, then caregiver strain is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized actuator serves multiple functions: it stores the X-ray cassette when not in use, positions the cassette behind the patient's back for imaging, and can potentially retrieve the cassette after use. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by consolidating multiple manual tasks into a single automated device.
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 caregiver strain and equipment wear by automating the X-ray cassette placement process, ensuring precise positioning and reducing manual force requirements, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
threaded lead screws
Implementation Method 2
threaded lead screws
Data Source
AI summary
A patient support apparatus includes a frame supporting a surface for a patient to lie on and an X-ray cassette mover coupled to the frame under the surface of the patient and adapted to receive an X-ray cassette. The patient support apparatus also includes one or more sensors located along the frame to sense a position of the patient on the surface and a controller in communication with the sensors and the X-ray cassette to determine the position of the patient on the surface and to position the X-ray cassette mover relative to the patient. The X-ray cassette mover provides a direct reference to the position of the X-ray cassette under the surface of the patient.