X-ray Table Mat with Embedded Grip Elements
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray table supports and repositioning aids are not suitable for use as both transport mats and X-ray table covers due to their design, which either leaves traces on X-ray images or poses disinfection challenges, and lack the necessary strength and handling features for efficient patient transfer.
Innovation Solution
A transport and support mat with a flat, closed design featuring integrated grip elements along its longitudinal edges, made from materials like textile, PU, or PVC, which allows for easy cleaning and disinfection, and includes a sliding underside for precise positioning, while being free of metallic elements and cavities to prevent image interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If repositioning aids with loops or handles are used for transporting patients, then ease of operation is improved, but ease of manufacture and cleaning are worsened due to dirt and germs getting stuck in the loops and handles
Solution Approach 1:
The handle elements are completely inserted within the cover and completely surrounded by the cover, removing the harmful feature of exposed loops and handles that trap dirt and germs, while retaining the functional benefit of patient transport capability
Solution Approach 2:
The cover acts as a continuous flexible shell that completely encloses the handle elements, creating a smooth, disinfectable surface without openings or recesses where contaminants could accumulate
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional X-ray table pads are designed as flat closed mats, then ease of manufacture and cleaning are improved, but ease of operation is worsened due to lack of handles for transporting or moving the patient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges two previously separate functions into one unified mat: the X-ray table cover function and the patient transport function, by integrating handle elements within the flat closed mat structure
Solution Approach 2:
The mat is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it serves as a flat closed cover for easy cleaning, provides integrated handles for patient transport, and maintains homogeneous structure for X-ray compatibility
3Measurement precision
If conventional X-ray table supports are designed to be homogeneous, then measurement precision is improved for X-ray imaging, but ease of operation is worsened due to lack of reinforcing structures for patient transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The mat has different local properties: the main surface remains homogeneous for X-ray compatibility, while localized handle elements provide reinforcing structures for patient transfer without compromising overall homogeneity
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a transport and/or support mat for use in the medical or care sector, in particular an X-ray table mat, comprising a planar shape extending along a longitudinal and transverse axis, which has a planar upper surface and a planar lower surface; wherein the outer surface of the shape is formed exclusively by a completely closed covering. The transport and/or support mat according to the invention is characterized in that, at two opposite edges extending along the longitudinal axis, raised grip elements are incorporated within the covering, opposite the area of the shape between the edges, which are completely embedded within and fully enclosed by the covering.