18625646. SYSTEM AND METHOD OF BRAKING FOR A PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS simplified abstract (Stryker Corporation)
Contents
SYSTEM AND METHOD OF BRAKING FOR A PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
William Dwight Childs of Plainwell MI (US)
SYSTEM AND METHOD OF BRAKING FOR A PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18625646 titled 'SYSTEM AND METHOD OF BRAKING FOR A PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUS
Simplified Explanation:
The patent application describes a patient support apparatus with a base that can move across a floor surface. It includes an auxiliary wheel support structure with non-castered wheels, a drive mechanism, and a braking system to control the movement of the apparatus.
- The patient support apparatus has a base with caster wheels for movement.
- An auxiliary wheel support structure is attached to the base to support non-castered wheels.
- A drive mechanism with a motor can drive the auxiliary wheel.
- A braking system with brake members can apply braking force to decelerate the auxiliary wheel.
- The braking system can synchronize the braking forces applied to multiple auxiliary wheels.
Key Features and Innovation:
- Incorporates non-castered auxiliary wheels for additional support and control.
- Drive mechanism powered by a motor for efficient movement.
- Braking system for precise control and deceleration of the auxiliary wheels.
- Synchronization of braking forces for multiple auxiliary wheels for consistent movement.
Potential Applications:
- Medical facilities for patient transport.
- Rehabilitation centers for patient support during therapy.
- Nursing homes for assisting elderly patients.
- Home care settings for mobility support.
Problems Solved:
- Enhanced mobility and control of patient support apparatus.
- Improved safety and stability during patient transport.
- Efficient braking system for controlled movement.
- Synchronization of braking forces for consistent performance.
Benefits:
- Increased maneuverability and control.
- Enhanced safety and stability for patients.
- Improved efficiency in patient transport.
- Consistent performance with synchronized braking forces.
Commercial Applications:
Patient support apparatus for medical facilities and rehabilitation centers.
Questions about Patient Support Apparatus:
1. How does the braking system work in synchronizing the braking forces for multiple auxiliary wheels? 2. What are the potential market implications for this innovative patient support apparatus?
Original Abstract Submitted
A patient support apparatus includes a base having a length and including a plurality of caster wheels enabling movement of the patient support apparatus across a floor surface. An auxiliary wheel support structure is secured to the base and rotatably supports at least one non-castered auxiliary wheel. A drive mechanism including a motor may be configured to drive the auxiliary wheel. A braking system including at least one brake member may be configured to apply a braking force to decelerate the auxiliary wheel and is movable between a first position wherein the at least one brake member is disengaged from the auxiliary wheel and a deployed position wherein the at least one brake member is frictionally engaged with the auxiliary wheel to restrict rotation of the auxiliary wheel. The braking system may be configured to synchronize the braking forces applied to first and second auxiliary wheels.
