Patient support apparatus including stabilizing mechanism
US5402543A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 26, 1993 |
| Grant date | Apr 4, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 26, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61G7/0519
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A patient support apparatus such a surgical table or a stretcher is provided. The apparatus includes a top assembly for supporting a patient in a variety of selected positions. The top assembly is supported by first and second hydraulic column assemblies which are, in turn, mounted to a base assembly. A stabilizing mechanism is provided for exerting a constant downward force upon the hydraulic column assembly supporting the head end of the top assembly. The stabilizing mechanism counteracts the lifting force at the head end of the apparatus when a patient's weight is located at or beyond the foot end thereof. The stabilizing mechanism includes a gas spring which is mounted to the base assembly and a cable connected between the base assembly and top assembly. The gas spring exerts a constant force upon the cable in all elevational positions of the top assembly.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.