AU723884B3 - Medical instrument interface device - Google Patents

Description

AUSTRALIA

Patents Act 1990 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION FOR A PETTY PATENT

ORIGINAL

Applicant: ALARIS MEDICAL UK LTD Actual Inventor: David Franklin-Lees Address for Service: PATENT ATTORNEY SERVICES 26 Ellingworth Parade Box Hill Victoria 3128 Australia Title: MEDICAL INSTRUMENT INTERFACE DEVICE The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me/us:- MEDICAL DEVICE INTERFACE SYSTEM BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTON The invention relates generally to a medical device interface syscem, and more particularly, to an interface for securing a medical device to a mnounting device such as a rail or a pole. The invention futirher relates to instrumen~t docking devices providing power and electrical communications between an insI2rumenr, associated with the interface, and an external device.

In today's hospital environment, it is common for multiple medical devices, ie. syringe pumps, infusion pump;, vital signs monitoring devices, to be simultaneously used to treat and monitor an individual patient. In such situations- -the 1nstrurnenrts are typically secured to a mounting device positioned near the patienE. A commonly used znouhrlng device is a mounting rail or bar having standard height and depth dimensions. Typicall1y, such rails are mounted to the walls of a hospital room at various heights and run the entire length of the room.

The rails are spaced outward from the wall on spacers to allow for the placement of a fastening device between the wall and the back of the rail. A typical device for securing a medical device. to a mounting ragl Is an L-bracket and a screw clamp. The L-bracket is m ounted to the back of an instrument near the top and positioned such that when the instrument is mounted to the rail the bracket rests on the top and extends downward behind the back of the rail. The screw clamp is located on the rear of the instrument and is positioned such that when tightened the screw clamps against the back of the rail. This mounting device is somewhat inconvenient in that it requires the turning of a dlamp screw in space that is typically too small to comfortably accommodate hand movement.

Another commnon mounting device is a pole, such a free-stEanding pole or one associated with the patien t~s bed. P ole clamps have commonly been used and have been rigidly mounted to the backs of medical devices. However, unless they are configured to be movable out of the way, they can interfere with other mounting arrangements of the Ixstr=mert Such~ stationary clamps can also cau se inconvenience in handling and storage of the instrunent due to the pro crusion of *the dlamp. Hence those skilled in the art have recognized a need for a mnore varsatile pole clamp.

Once the medical devices are properly secured to a mounting device the lnstrumnents must be connected to a power outler. To this end, each individual power cord of each individual instrument is plugged into a power our-let located in. the wafl or ina a power strip extension cord having multiple power oudets.

*Providing power connections in this manner may be problemnatic in- that cables may become tangled thus rendering the 'tracing of an. individual cable to its associated outlet and the subsequent movemnent of an' individual instrument difficult. Safety issues also arise in thatrthe use of a power strip extension cord.

to accommodate multiple instruments may, cause a power outlet to be overloaded.

Furthermore, the more cables that are laying on a hospital floor, the higher the risk of eatanglement: with a patient or care provider. In addlition to the power cords, most medical devices also require or can accommodate a data commnunications connction to an external device such as'a computer. The connection of individual data communications cables to each device further increases the forgoing problems and difficulties.

Hence. those skilled in ifhe art have recognized. a need for an iaterface capable of mou nting an instrum-ent to either a mounring rail or a pole. The need has also been recognized for a docking station capable of accepting a plurality of instruments and providingpo'er and com-munications signals to the instruments through the docking, station instead of through individual cables. The present invention fulfills these needs and others.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION0 2S' Briefly and in general terms, the iavention is directed to a device interface system for securing a medical device to a mounting device such as a rail or a pole.

The invention is further directed to ani instrument docking device for providing power and electrical communications between an instrument, associated with the.

interface, and an external device.

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2a In a first aspect, the invention provides a medical device interface forming a part of a medical device housing, said interface for securing the medical device to a mounting rail mounted to a surface, said interface including a back panel; a first recess carried by the back panel, the first recess dimensioned to receive the mounting rail, and a rail cam rotatably mounted at the back panel and aligned with the first recess to receive and retain the mounting rail, the rail cam being biased to a closed position at which it would engage the mounting rail to hold the medical device firmly to the rail, the rail cam having at least two arms with guiding portions and sloping surfaces for rotating the cam against its bias to an open position upon a pre-engagement encounter with a mounting rail to allow the rail to enter the first recess and the cam to engage the rail, and upon engagement, permit the cam to return to its biased closed position at which it holds the medical device firmly to the rail.

The medical device interface can be in combination with a release lever coupled to the rail cam and positioned at an external location of the housing, the lever coupled to a release linkage whereby movement of the release lever causes the linkage to rotate the rail cam to its open position for disengagement from the mounting rail.

The medical device interface also can be in combination with an instrument alignment mounting member protruding rearward from the back panel that is shaped to automatically align components at the back panel with complementary components on a docking station.

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T1) Ini a detailed aspect of the interface,, [he Protruding portion further car-ries a circular cutout partially wihi the first recess, and the Tall cai-n i ncludes a circular camn base having a surface substantially flush with the first recess. The base is mounted for pivotal movement within the circular cutout. The rail cam r -further includes two opposing arms near the periphery of the tam base. The arms extend s ubstantially perpenidicular relative the surface of the camr base and each arm has an arm base defining a lockc siurface. The arms are positioned oni the can base such that the distance between the two lock sw-faces is large enough to receive the mounting rail, In a further detailed facet of the interface, each armx further include s a guiding, portion at the top of tlfe arm base for contacting the mouating rail during insertion of the ral cam onto the mounting rail and transferfing the force of contact with the mounting rail to the camn base to therein induce romdIon of the rail ca m.

In another de tailed facet, the mounting rail has a height and depth and the guiding portion of each rail-caxn arm includes a first portion sloping downward from a first height near the outer periphery of the arm base to a second height inward relative ri-e outer periphery of the armr base, The second height is less than the first height. The guiding portion further includes a second portion conciguous with the first portion and extending outward from the arm base above the lock surface. The distance between the cam- base and the bortom of the second portion is slightly greater than the depth nf the mounting rail and the distance between the ends of opposing second portions is less than the height of the monotming ralU.

In still another detailed aspect. the first recess includes a top region defined by at least one substantially planar top surface and an arcuate top surface, the arcuate top surface further defining an arcuate top region. The first recess further includes a bottom region defined by at least one substantially planar bottom surface and an arcuate bottom surface, the arcuate bottom surface further defining an arcuate bottom region. The rail cam has a closed/lock position during which the second portion of one of the arms is positioned above the at least one bottom surface and the second portion of the other arm is positioned below the at least one top surface, and the rail cam has an open/release position during which the second portion of one of the arms is positioned below the at least one bottom surface and the second portion of the other arm is positioned above the at least one top surface.

In a second facet, the invention relates to an interface device for securing an instrument to a docking station having a casing having at least one signal port and a mounting rail mounted within a recessed portion of the casing. The interface device includes a back panel forming part of an instrument housing for housing the instrument, a first portion protruding rearward from the back panel and a first recess carried by the protruding portion. The first recess is dimensioned to receive the mounting rail. The interface device further includes a rail cam rotatably mounted within the protruding portion and aligned with the first recess to receive and retain the mounting rail and at least one first-pordon signal port carried by the first portion. The first portion is dimensioned to fit within the recessed portion of the casing such that the rail cam is positioned to receive the mounting rail and the at least one first-portion signal port is aligned, in a complementary fashion, with the at least one casing signal port.

In a detailed facet, the interface device further includes a pole clamp assembly positioned near the first and second portions. The pole clamp assembly includes a pivot member moveable between a retracted position and an extended position and a post having an axis. The post is mounted to the pivot member for axial movement and mounted thereto such that when the pivot member is retracted the axis of the post is substantially parallel with the back panel and when the pivot member Is extended the axis of the post is substantially n"nnomndiri ar t the bha-k nanml. In annrher facet. the at least one first-portion electrical port includes a power inlet and the at least one casing electrical port includes a power outlet. In yet another detailed aspect, the casing includes a relay for controlling the application of power to the power outlet when activated and the first portion comprises a magnet positioned such that when the first portion is within the recessed portion of the casing the magnet activates the relay.

in further additional aspects, the at least one first-por-tion electrical port comprises a data communications port, the data coninunications port comprises an IR Fort and the casing and first-pordion comprise a plurality of complententary signal ports.

in a third aspect, the invention relates to a rail camn forming part of an inrumnaent housing for securing the instrument housing to a mounting rail having a height and depth and mounted co a surface. The rail cam includes a carn base having a surface. The base is mounted for pivotal Inovenlent relative the remainder of the instruinent housing. The rail carn further includes two opposing arms near the periphery of the carn base. The arm extending substantially perpendicular relative the surface of the camn bgse, each arm has an arm base defining a lock surface, The arms are positioned on dhe camn base su~ch that the distance between the two lock surfaces is substantially equal to the height of the mounting rail. The rail camn further Includes a guiding portion at the top of each arm base for contacting the mounting rail. during insertion of the rail cam onto the mounting rail and transferring the force of contact with the mounting rail to the cam base to therein induce rotation of the rail camn from a closed/lock position to a opened/receive position during which the rail cam receives the mounting rail and subsequently removing the force ]from. the cam base to allow rotation of the rail camn from the open/receive posicion to the dlosed/lock position during which the rail cam retains the mounting rail.

in a detailed aspect, the guiding portion includes a first portion sloping downward ftrm a first height nearthe outer periphery of the arm base to a second height inward relative the outer periphery of the arm base- The second height is less than the first height. The guilding portion further includes a second portion contiguous with the first portion that extends outward from the arm base a distance over the lock surface. The distance between the cam base and the bottom of the second portion is slightly greater than the depth of the mounting rail and the distance between the ends of opposing second portions is less tha the height of the mounting rail. In Enother detailed facet, the rail cam further S includes a lever coupled to the rail cam such that movement of the lever induces rotation of the rail cam between the closed/lock position and an openled/release, position during which the mounting rail may be removed from the rail cami, the opened/release position being substantially the same as the openedfreceive position.

In a fotuth facet, the invention relates to a docking station for accepting at leqst one instrument having a housing having a rail cam and a recess and at least one signal port. The docking station includes a casing having a plurality of fastening bars recessed a distance from the front of the casing, it docking tile secured to the fastening bars and a rail mounted on the docking tile and spaced a distance therefrom. The mounting rail is dimensioned to fit within the housing recess and the rail cam. The docking station further includes at least one signal port secured to the tile, A portion of the port protrudes forward from the tile and is aligned to couple with the at least one housing signal port when the mounting rail is within the housing recess and rail cam. The signal port fa~rther includes a portion protruding rearward from the rile for interfacing with a signal source.

In a detailed aspect, the fastening bars comprise channels running the length of the casing and the docking tile may be adjustably positioned along the length of the channels. In another detailed facet. the docking station further includes an electrical circuit mounted to Ehe rear of the docking tile. The electrical circuit provides electrical cornmurdication between the at least one tile signal port and an external electrical device. In yet another detailed aspect, a plurality of docking tiles are positioned adjacent each other along the length of the casing. The docking tiles are spaced apart to allow for the mounting of a plurality of instruments having a standard height.. In a more de tailed aspect, the docking station further includes spacing plates positioned between adjacent docking tiles to thereby -provide a docking station capable of accepting instruments of non-standard height. In still another detailed aspect the docking station Etuther comprises a base tile for providing signals to each of the pluxality of docing tiles.

In further additional facets of the docking station, the base tie includes a power inlet for receiving external power to be provided to each of the plurality of docking tiles arnd the base tile includes a data communication port for interfacing each of the plurality of docking tiles with an external coinputer system.

In a fifth facet, the invention relates to a docking tile for acceptin g an instrumenc having a housing havirig a rail cam and a recess anid at least one electrical port. The docking Eile includes a plate, a rail mounted on the plate and spaced a distance therefrom. The rail is dimrensioned to fit within the houising recess and the rail carn. The docking tile further includes at least one signal port secured to the plate. A portion of the port protrude; forward therefrom and Is aligned to couple with the at least one housing signal port when the rail is within the housing recess and the rail cam. The port -further includes a portion protruding rearward therefrom for interfacing withi a signal source, in a detailed aspect, the docking tile fter includes ant electrical circuit for providing electrical communication between the at least one tile signal port and an external electrical device. In more detailed facets, the at least one tile signal port is a, power inlet. In yet another detailed aspect, the electrical circuit includes a magnetic relay for feeding power to the power outlet when activated.

In additional facets, the at least one tile electrical port is a data communications port and the data communications port is an IR port.

In a sixth facet, the invention relates to a pole clamp assembly forrming panT of an Instrument housing having a back panel with a pole clarnp recess. The pole clamp assembly is for secuing the instruiment housing to a pole and includes a pivot member mnoveable between a retracted position and an extended position, The pole clamp asemnbly futher includes a post having an axis. The post is mounted to the pivot member for axial movement and mounted thereto such chat when the pivot member is retracted the aids of the post is substantially parallel with the back panel and when the pivot: memnberis extended the z.xis of the post is substantially perpendicular to the back panel. The post is dimensioned and oriented such that when the pivot member is in the retracted position a portion of the post ies within the pole clamp recess.

In a detailed aspect, the pole clamp recess is defined by a generally arcuate surface and the post includes a threaded stud and a handle having opposing curved sides shaped to substantially march the curvd shape of the arcuate surface. The handle is positioned at one end of the stud such that when the pivot member Is retracted a portion of the handle lies within the pole clamp recess, In a more detailed aspect, the handle fuirther includes opposing rounded edges, wherein upon the application of force to either of the rounded edges the handle is rotated such that one of the curved sides of the handle generally aligns wich the arcuate surface defining the pole damp recess. In another detailed facet, the pole clamp assembly further includes a bracket mounted cor the back panel. The bracket has a stud recess and the pivot member comprises a genierally L-shaped arm having a first leg and a second leg. The first leg is mounted to the bracket for pivotal movement and the second leg for accepting the stud. The second leg is positioned relative the first leg to extend into the area near the pole clamp recess such that a portion of the scud lies within the stud recess of the bracket.

In a seventh aspect, the invention relates to a device Interface for securing an instrument to a docking station having a casing having a mounting rail mounted within an alignment portion of the casing. The device interface includes an alignment member fonning part of an instrument housing for housing the instrument and a rail cam rotatably mounted to the instrument housing and configured to receive and retain the mounting rail. The alignment member interfaces with the alignment portion such rhat the rail cain is posirioned to r-eceivetie mounTing rail.

in a more detailed facet the alignament portion of the casing includes, a recess having a width and the alignment member includes at least one portion protruding from the 1nsvruenr housing having a width slightly less than the width of the recess.

These and other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, which illustrate by way of example the features of the invention, BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINS FIGURE 1 is an isometric view of a medical Interface system in accordance with the invention showing a plurality of medical devices, each of which is secured to a docking station by a medical device interface; FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the dncking station of FIG. 1I with the medical devices removed and having a casing with a plurality of docking riles recessed therein and a base tile; FIG. 3 is an isometric rear view of a medckal device having a medical device interface located at the rear of the instrument, the medical device interface having a rail cam assembly, a pole dlamp assembly, power connector, IR communications port, and an instrument alignment member, 1s FIG. 4a is an isometric view of the medical device of FIG- 3 secured to a mounting rail by the rail cm assembly withL pardions of the rail cut away for clarity; FIG. 0l is a plana view of the operation of the alignment mounting member at the back of the medical device of FIG. 3 interacting with the alignent recess of the docking station casing to properly and automatically align the power and communications devices of the instrument with those of the docking die.

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of the medical device of FIG. 3 secured to a pole by the pole dlamp assembly; FIG. 6 is a franc view of the base die of FIG. 2; FIG. 7 is ant isometric view of one of the docking tiles of FIG. 2; FiG. 8 is a side view of the docking tile of FIG. 7 showing a Mounting rail, power connector, signal ports and a c-Ircuit card mounted to* the back of the tie; FIG. 9 is a diagram of the circuit card of FIG. 8; FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a portion of the casing of FIG. 2; FIG. 11I is a plan-view of the casing of FIG. FIG. 12 depicts an alternate configuration of a docking station showing three docing tilesand a base tile; FIG. 13 depicts another alternate configuration of a docking station showing two verticald casings and an interconnecting horizontal casing located at and engaged with the tops of the vertical casings; FIG. 14 depicts another alternate configuration of a docking station having a stand; FIG. 15 depicts a docking station having a bag support for holding infusion fluid for use by one or more medical devices that may be mounted to the docking station; FIG. 16 is a view of the medical device interface of FIG. 3 as viewed from die outside of the medical device with portions of the rail camn cut away for claxity; FIG. 17 is a view of the medical device interface of FIG. 3 as viewed from 1S the inside of the mnedical device showing interconnection of the rail camn to an externally located cam control ]ever, and also showng the spring bias on the rail camn; FIGS. 18a and 18b are isometric views of the rail cam of FIG. 3; FIGS. 18c through 18e are a plan view, a front %dew and a side view, respectively, of the rail cam of FIGS. 18a and 18b; FIG. 19a is an isometric view of the pole clamp assembly of FIG. 3 in an opened position; FIG. 19b is an isometric view of the pole clamp assembly of FIG. 3 in a dosed position; FIG. 19c is a top view of the pole clamp assembly of FIG. -19a; and FIG. 19d is a top view of the pole clamnp assembly of FIG. 19b.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERR.ED EMB1ODIMENTS Turning now to the drawings, in which like reference numerals are used Eo designate like or corresponding elernencs among the several figues, in FIGS.

1-3 there is shown a medical device interface system 10 (F~IG. 1) used with a plurality of inidividuaI~medical devices 12. such as syringe infusion pumnps 14 and peristaltic infusion pumps 16. Each of the medical devices 12 is removably secured to a docking station 18 (FIG. 2) by a medical device interface 48 (FIG. 3) located at the rear of each device.

The docking station 18, as shown in FIG. 2, includes a plurality of docking tiles 20 and a base tile 22, each mounted to a casing 24. Each docking tile includes a mounting rail 26 mounted to a plate 28. The mounting rail 26 has standard height and depth dimensions. Also mounted to the plate 28 are a power outlet 30 and a data communications port 32 for interfacing with complementary power and data communications components located on the rear of the medical devices 12 (FIG. The docking tiles 20 include a fastener 34 in each corner of the plate 28 for mounting the docking tile to the casing 24.

The base die 22 includes a-main power inlet 36 and a main on/off switch 38 for connecting each of the docking tiles 20 with an external power source. In some embodiments, the base tile 22 further includes a data communications port 40 for connecting each of the docking tiles 20 with an external data communications device, such as a computer. The base die 22 is secured to the casing 24 via front panel fasteners 42. The inside region of the casing 24 and the docking tile plate 28 are dimensioned such that the plate fits within the casing.

With reference to FIG. 3, a medical device interface (MDI) 48 which in this case forms part of a medical device 12 housing is located at the rear of the device.

The mounting case 50 of the instrument has a back panel 76 on which is located the MDI 48. The MDI includes an instrument alignment mounting member 51, the purpose of which is to. automatically align the other components of the MDI with complementary components of the docking station or of another station. In this embodiment, the instrument alignment mounting membe'r 51 has a first portion 52 and a second porion 54, each protruding rearward from the back panel. The first protruding portion 52 includes a first recess 56 while the second protruding portion 54 includes second recess 58. Each recess 56, 58 is dimensioned to receive the mounting rail 26 (FIG. 2) of a docking tile The MDI 48 (FIG. 3) further incudes a rail cam 60 that is positioned within the first recess 56 and mounted therein for.rotation. The rail cam 60 is biased to a closed/lock position. The rail cam 60 includes two opposing arms 62, each having a base 78 and a guiding potion 64 on top of the base. Each gulding portion 64 has a sloping surface having a portion 80 that extends our over the base 78 of the arm. The arm bases 78 are spaced apart: a distance slightly greater S tha the height of a mounting rail, such that the mounting rail fits between the an=s. The space between the tips of the extension portions 80 is less than the height of the mounting rail.

The guiding portion 64 is sloped to receive the force of a mounting rail 26 during mounting and to induce rotation of the rail cam 60 against its spring bias to an open/receive position during which the mounting rail slips into the space -between the arm bases 80. Once the mounting rail 26 is positioned within the rail cam 60, the rail cam rotates back to its closed/lock position. In the dlosed/lock position of the rail cami 60, the extension portions 80 of the arms 78 are locared behind the mounting rail 26, thereby retaining the mounting -all within t~he rail carn and the first and second recesses S6, 58, The MDI 48 also includes a lever 66 po ;sitioned at the top of the mounting case 50. The lever 66 rotates the rail cam 60 from its closed/lock position against its spring bias to an open/release position during which the medical device 12 may be removed from the mounting rail 26. The open/release position and the open/receive position are identical. This position is sometimes referred to as the open/receive/release position. The MDI 48 further includes a power inlet 68 and a data commaunication port 70 which are aligned to commnicate with complementary power and data communications components located on the docking tiles 20 (FIG. 2).

Also included in the MDI 48 is a pole clamp assembly 72 which may be extended for purposes of securing the medical device 12 to a pole. The pole clamp assembly 72 includes an arm 82 and a threaded post 84. The arm 82 is pivotally mounted to the back panel 76 and moves between open and closed positions. The post 84 is attached to the armn 82 andc threadably mounted thereto for movemnent along the axis of the post. The pole clamp assembly 72 is positioned relative the fixst and second portions 52 and 54 such that When the pole clamp assembly is dlosed the post 84 is positioned in a recess between the two portions. when the pole clamp assembly 72 is opened, the post 84 is.

substantially perpendicular to the back panel 76. in this position, the post 84 may be rotated to tighten against a pole placed between the tip of the post and the back panel 76.

In operation, as shown in FIG. 4a, a medical device 12 is secured to a mounting rail 26 by visually aligning the first recess 56 and the second recess 58 with the mounting rail. Once aligned, the rail cam 60 is pushed against the mounting rail 26. The force of the mounting rail 26 againSE the guiding portions 64 of the rail cam 60 induce s roatidon of the rail camn such that the mounting rail slideq into the space between the am-L bases 78. Once the miounting rail 26 is" positioned within the rail cam 60, the cam returns to its closed/lock position and the extension portions 80 of the arms 62 hold the device 12 to the rail. If the mounting rail 26 is part of a docking station 18 (FIG. the power inlet 68 (FIG.

4) of the medical device 12 and the power oudtlz 30 (FIG. 2) of the docking tile interconnect. Likewise, the data commnunications ports 32, 70 of the two structures interface. To remove the medical device 12 from the rail cam, the lever 66 is activated to cause the rail cam to rotate toits open/release position during which time the ex tension portions 80 no longer retain the device to the mounting rail 26. Likewise, as shown in FIG. 4b, a medical device 12 is secured to a docking station 20 by visually aligning the alignment mounting member 51 of the device with the recess formed by the casing 24. Once aligned, the rail cam 60 is pushed agaiiqst the mounting rail 26 and secured thereto as just described with reference to FIG. 4a.

Alternacively, as shown in FIG. 5, the medical device 12 may be mounted to a pole 74 using the pole clamp assemibly 72. In order to do so, the arm 82 of the pole clamp assembly 72 is pivoted to its open position. Thie medical device' 12 is placed on the pole 74 such that the pole Lies in the area between the first and second portions 52, 54 of the MDI 48. The threaded post 84 is then rotat ed until the tip of the Post contacts the pole, thereby clamping the instrument 12 to the pole 74.

Following are further detailed descriptions of the docking station 18 (FIG.

2) and medical Interface device 48 (FIG. 3).

DockinZ Station As previously mentioned with reference to IVIG. 2, the docking station 18t includes a plurality of docking tiles 20 and a base tile 22, each mounted to a casing 24. The base tile 22 is typically positioned near the bottom of the docking station to provide for easy conn~ection wit~h power and data communications cables. The docking tiles 20 are positioned adjacent each other, one on top of the other or in a side-ky-side arrangement. The-docking tile 20 are dimenisioned such that when assembled they are'spaced apart a distance sufficient to accept a medical device 12 of standard height and/or width dimensions. Tile spacers (niot shown) may be positioned between adjacent docing tiles 20 in order to Increase che distance there between to allow for acceptance of non-standard dimensioned muedical -devices 12 without physical interference between the devices. The 1S docing station 18 may either be a "dumb" station, L. one which provides only power to the medical devices 12, or a "smart" station, i. one which provides both power and data communications to the medical devices. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2. the docking station 18 includes a vertical casing 44 and a horizoalg casing 46. The casings 44, 46 are joined together by a T-piece 47 that fits within the top of the vertical casing 44 and is fastened to the back of the horizontal casing 46. At each end of the horizontal casing 46 is a removable end cap 49.

As shown in FIG. 6, the base tile 22 includes a main power inlet 36 and an on/off switch 38 for interfacing each of the docking tiles 20 with an external power source. Power is provided to each docking tile 20 in a daisy chain manner through connection provided by adjacent tiles, as described ft-ther below. The base tile 22 includes a connection port through which an earth connection is made with the back of the. casing 24. In a smart docking station, the base tile 22 further includes a data communications poxt 40 for interfacing each of the docking tiles 20 with an external daia communications device, such as a computer. The base tile 22 coordinates data comwaunicadons with all Individual docking tiles 20 located in the docking station. Such communications5 may take the form of a central hospital computer moaltoring the status or location, or both, of an individual medical device mounted at the docking station. -In a preferred embodiment, the base tile 22 includes Ethernet circuitry for Intetfacing With an Ethernet system. Alternativ~ely, the base dile 22 may include the necessary interface for communicating with other devicei throughi an RS-232 bus or other similar bus configurations.

As shown in FIGS. 7-9, each docking tile 20 includes a standard size mounting rail 26 mounted to a square plate 28. The mounting rail 26 has a stadard height and depth. In a preferred embodiment the mounting rail 26 has a height of approximat ely 25mm and a depth of approximately 1xM~m. The mounting rail 26 is spaced a distance from the plate 28 by a plurality of spacers 1.00. The spacers 100 are dimensioned to position the mounting rail 26, relative the plate 28, such that during mounting, the plate does not contact the back surface of the first and second pomiorw 52, 54 (FIG. The spacers 100 thus ensue that the plate 28 does not inhibit movemenit of the mounting rail 26 into the first and second recesses 56, 58 and the rail camn Also mounted to the plate 28 (FIG. 7) are a plurality of Pignal ports, e. g., power outlet 30 and a data corumurtications port 32. The power outlet 30 is positioned on the plate 28 to align with a complementary power inlet 68 (FIG. 3) located on the rear of a medical device- During installation of a medical device 12 to a dlocking tile 20 (FIG. the complementary power components interconnect. -Likewise, the data communications port 32 is positioned on the plate 28 to align with a comuplementary data communications component (FIG. 3) located ont the rear of a media device 12. in a preferred embodiment, the complementary data couimuxi-lcation components are infrared ports.

A circuit card 102, as shown in FIGS. a and is mounted on the rear of the plate 28, The circuit card 102 carries a plurality of circuit components for connecting the signtal ports 30, 32 of individual docking tiles 20 to the corresponding signal ports on the base tile 22. With regard to power connecions.

each docking tie 20 rmceives power through the base tile 22.

Power lugs 104 located on the circuit card receive power from the base-tile power source via power cables 106. Adjacent docking tiles 20 are Interconnected in a daisy chain manner through the power cables 106. This power is provided to the power inlet 30 via relay 110. A4 cable 108 provides an earth connection to the casing 24 (FIG. The circuit card 102 also includes a relay 110 that is activated by a magnet 342 (FIG. 17) positioned within the medical device. When the medical device 12 is mounted on the docking tie 20, the magnet 342 activates a reed switch 122 wh~ch activates the relay 110 to allow for the application of power through the power outlet 30. Activation of the relay 110 is indicated by Illumination of a red LED 120 located on the circuit board 102 and visible at the front of rthe docking tile 20 (FIG. The LED 120 illuminates when the relay is activated. The relay 110 acts as it safety feature by blocking the power signal from the power outlet 30 in the absence of a medical device. Should the relay 110 fail and stick in the activated position, even upon removal of the niedical device 12 from the docking tile 20, the LED 120 Indicates the presence of power at the outlet 30. In a dumb docking station, the relay 110 is powered by a 12 volt dc: signal provided by power connectors 126. These pbwer connectors 126 receive power from the base tile 22. The power signal is passed through adjacent docking tiles 20 in a daisy chain manner. In a smart docking station the circuit card 102 further includes data communication connectors 112, These connectors 112 provide the de power signal to power the relay 110. These connectors 112 also communicate with a data cable 114 to provide an interface between the IR port 32 and the =~in data communications port 40 of the base tile 22. Adjacent docking tiles 20 are daisy chained together via connectors -112 to provide communication between each docking tile and the communications device connected to the base tile 22.

Each docking tile 20 is individually mounted to the docking station casig 24 (FIG. 2) by fasteners 34 located in each corner of the plate 28. Each fastener 34 includes a screw 116 and a square nur 118. The square nut 118 firs within the a square fastener channel located in the casing 24, as described harher below.

As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the dockng station casin 24 includes two sides 200. In a preferred emnbodimentt, the casin g 24 Is fonned of alumninuui.

This provides sru~ctural rigidiW to the casing and electromagnetic capability (EMC) shielding, e, electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection, as well as weighE reduction. The casing may, however, be made of a non-metallic material and EMI screening mounted to the inside to result in the same level of EMI protection as if the casing were made of metal. Each side 200 is substantially setni-circular in shape and Is hollow along its entire length. These hollow sides 200 provide rigidity to the casing 24 while at the same time reducing the weight.

An arced back panel 202 joins the two sides 200. At the junctions 204 of the back panel 202 and side 200 is a rear channel bar 206 that runs the entire length of the casing 24. Inserted witin each of the rear channel bars 206 is a channel plug strip 208 (FIG. 11). The channel plug strips 208, which may be formed of rubber, may be removed and a bracket (not shown) may be installed across the rear of the casing 24 for tuounting the casing~ to a wall or other suppoit medium.

On the inside of the casing 24 is a cenmerxcbanel bar 210. The center channel bar 210 receives the earth cable 108 (FIG.- 8) and thereby provides earth bonding. Also on the inside of the casing 24, near each of the vides 200 is a recess channel bar 212 that runs the entire length of the casing 24. The recess channel bars 212 are rectangular in cross section and are sized to receive the square nuts 118 (FIG. 7) associated with the docking-dile fasteners 34, as previously described. The casing 24 also includes a pair of threaded channels 222 which receive screws 224 (FIG. 2) for securing the end cap 49 to the casing.

The distance between the inner walls 214 of the sides 200 is selected to be slightly greater than the width of a docking tile plate 283 (FIG. 7) so that the tile can be mounted in the recess 215 formedi between the sides 200. The distance between the front of the recess channels 212 and the front 216 of the casing, L c., the docking station depth, is selected to be slightly greater than the dimension by' which the first and second portons 52, 54 (FIG. 3) of the alignmnent mnoutin~g member 51 of the MDI 48 protrude from the back panel 76, The recess 215 between the sides 200 therefore formu an alignment mounting recess that functions to automatically guide the alignment mounting member 5 1 (FIG. 3) of the medical device 12 into proper alignment with the iterface componentg of the plate mounted in the recess, such as power, data communications, and the mounting rail. The ctuved configuration of thetronr216 part of the casing assists In correctly and automatically aligning the components of the instrument with the components of the docking tile 20 as the interface 48 of the instxument is pressed into the recess 2:15. This curved configuration tends to direct the interface 48 of the instrumnent into the recess 215.

While the foregoing description of a docking station 18 has been made with reference co the configuratio'n shown in FIG. 2, alternate configurations may -be asembled. Examples of alternate configurations are shown in FIGS. 12-:14.

FIG. 12 shows a docking station having three docking tiles 20 and a single base rile 22 mounted within a casing 24. The casing 24 is capped at the top and bottom and with such a configuration, the entire assembly is particularly suited to be mounted to a wall by means of a mounting bracket inserted in the rear channel bars 206 of the casing (see FIG. 11) With specific reference to FIG. 13, it Is noted that the top horizontal portion of the docking station .18 includes the same casing as the vertical portions. During assembly, docking tiles 20 are simply rotated and secured to the casing side-by-side. This is possible due to the square dimensions of the docking tiles plates 28.

As previously mntioned, docking stations 18 'may be mounted to the wall using brackets attached to the back of the casing. Alternatively, a docking station IS may include a stand 218, as shown in FIG. 14, which allows for placement of the docking station at a location distant from a wall. The stsnd shown In FIG. 14 can have wheels mounted at the bottom of each foot so that the stand can accompany ai patient who is being moved. The medical devices-mounted in the docking station 18 include battery backup power that allows the devices to continue operation durin& movement. As shown in FIG. 15, a docking station may also include accessories such as a hook apparatus 220 for hanging bags of infusion fluid. A clamp assembly 219 in this arrangement is mounted to t~he end of the horizontal casing 46 instead of an end cap 49 (FIG. The clamp assembly 219 permits control over the height of the hook apparatu's 220.

Medi-al Device Interface As previously mentioned with reference to FIG. 3, a medical device interface (MDD) 48 forming part of a medical device housing or attached to the housing is located at the rear of the device. The MDI is usually made of plastic.

The MDI 48 includes a rail cam 60 and pole clamp assem~bly 72. Wit~h reference to FIGS. 3, 16 and 17, the instrument alignment mounting member 5 1 forming part of the mounting case S0 has a first portion 52 protruding rearward from the case a distance no greater thani the depth of a docking station 20. The first portion S2 has a height no greater than thec height of a docking tile 20 and a width no greater than the width of a docking Wie.

In the upper region 300 of the first portion 52, Is a first recess 56. The first recess 56 includes a top region 302 and a bottom region 304. Thle top region 302 is defined by two substantially plaa top sarfaces 306 and an arcuate top surface 308. The portion of the first recess 56 bog~ded by the arcuate top surface 308 defines an. arcuate top region 310. L~kewise, the bottom region 304 is defined by two substantially plauar bottom surfaces 312 and an arruate botrom surface 314. The portion of the first recess 56 bounded by the arcuate bottom surface 314 defines an arcuate bottom region 316. The top and bottom planar surfaces 306, 312 are substantially parallel to each other.

The first recess 56 has a height defined by the distance bet~ween the top and bottom planar surfaces 306, 312. The height is slightly greater than the height of a mourniing rail 26. The first recess 56 has a depth defined by the distance between the bac, surface 318 (FIG. 3) of the recess and the surface 320 of the first portion. The depth is greater than rte depth of a mounting rail 26.

Given the height and depth of the first recess 56, when a mounting rail is placed within the first recess and positioned flush against rhe back surface 318 of the recess, the mounting rail is recessed relative the surface 320 of the first portion.

At the surface 320 of the first portion 52, in the lower region 322, is a power inlet 68, data commnunications port 70 and a potential equalization Connector 324. The power inlet 68 and the data communication port 70 are positioned on the surface 320 of the first portion, relative the first recess S6, such thac they align with and interface with the power outlet 30 (PI1G. 2) and data communication port 32 of a docking tile when the mounting rail of the docing tile is placed within the first recess. A roof 344, positioned above the power inlet 68, serves to prevents fluid from entering the power inlet so that when the medical device 12 is used in a stand alone configuraion, L not with a docking station, it reduces the risk of shorting out the electrical power.

The back surface 318 of the Enrt recess 56 Includes a circular cutout positioned such that the top and bottomn portions of the cutout align with the top and bottom arcuate surfaces 308, 314. Positioned within the circular cutout is a rail cam 60. As shown in FIGS. 18a-18e, the rail cam 60 includes a. circular cam base 400 that fits within the circular cutout such that the surface 402 of the circular camn base is substantially flush with the back surface 318 of the first 1S recess 56. The cam base 400 is mounted for pivotal movemzenrwithin the cutout.

Positioned near the periphery of the cam 'Pase 4-00 and projecting substantially perpendicular relative the surface 402 of the cam base are a pair of opposing arms 62.

Each arm 62 Includes an arm base 404 defining a lock surface 406. The arms 62 are positioned on Ehe cam base 400 such that the distance between the two opposite lock surfaces 406 is slightly greater than the height of a mounting rail 26 Eo allow for placement of the mounting rail between the lock surfaces.

Each arm 62 also defines a release surface 412. Each arm 62 furthe includes a guiding portion 64 located at the top of the arm base 404. The guiding portion 64 includes a first portion 408 sloping downward from a first height near the outer periphery of the arm base 404 to a second height inward relative the outer periphery of the arm base. The second height is less than the tirt height, The guiding portion 64 further includes a second portion 410 that is contiguous with the first portion 408. The second portion 410 extends outward from the arm base 404 above the lock surface 406 and acts a lip for retaining a mounting rail 26. The arms 62 are dimensioned such that the distance between the surface 402 of the cam base 400 and the bottom of the second portion 410 as best shown in FIG. 18e is substantially equal to the depth of the mounting rail 26 and the distanice between the ends of opposing second portions 410 as best shown in FIG. 18a, is less than the height of the mounding rail. Accordingly, the mounting rail 26 fits within the rail cam 60 and is retained w!ithin the rail camn by the second portions 410.

With reference to FIGS. 3 and 16 the rail cam 60 is oriented within the cutout such that the cam rotates between a dlosed/lock position and a open/receive/release position. In FI1G. 3, the rail cam Is shown In its closed/lock posidon. When in this position, the lock surface 410 (FIG. I 8d) of each arm 62 is substantially flush with the top and bottom surfaces 306. 312 of the first recess, respectively and the second portion 410 of each arm extends into the space between the top and bottom surfaces. When the rail cam is in Its open/receive/release position, the release surface 412 of each ann is substantially flush with the top and bottom surfaces 306, 312 of the first recess, respectively and the second portion 410 of each arm 62 is ppsitioned within the top and bottora arquate region 310, 316, respectively and thus Is outside the space between top and bottm surfaces, In a preferred erabodimnent,"the rail cam 60 is formed of plastic and is capable of supporting between 20 to 30 pounds (9 to U3S kilogram). To support heavier weights the rail cam may be made of inetal.

As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the MDI 48 further includes a lever assembly 326 coupled to the rail cam 60. The lever assembly 326 includes an external release lever 66 piositioned on the exterior side of the MDL. The external release lever 66 is coupled to an Internal release lever 328 positioned beneath the 2S external release lever on the interior tide of the MDI. The lever assembly 326 further includes a rail cam lever 330 coupled to the rail cam 60 and positioned on the interior side of the MDI. The rail cam lever 330 is biased in the closed/lock position by a spring 334. The rail camn lever 330 an~d internal release lever 328 are coupled together by a release linkage 332. Rotation of the external release lever 66 induces rotation of the internal release lever 332 which in turn displaces the release linkage 332. DIsplacezeit of the release linkage 332 causes the rail cam lever 330 to rotate against the force of the spring 334 which in turn rotates the rail cam 60. Movement of the lever 66 rotates the rail camn 60 from dosed/lock position to its open/receive/release position.

With reference to FIGS. 3, 16 and 17, the mouning case 50 has a second portion 54 protruding rearward fromn the case. The second portion 54 includes a second recess 58 defined by a substantall1y planar top surface 336 and a substantially planar bottom surface 3.38. The second recess 58 has a height I defined by the distance between the top and bottom planar surfaces 336, 338.

As with the first recess 56, the height of the second recess 58 is slightly greater than the height of a mounting rail 26. The second recess 58 Is aligned with the first recess such that a mounwting r 2 ybe positioned within both recesses simultaneously. The first portions 52 and second po .n-54-are-s-pad allow for placement of a portion of the pole dmip assembly 72 the between.

Positioned between the first portion 52 and the second portion S4 Is a pole clamp recess 340. The pole dlamp recess 340 has a generally arcuawe surface and is dimensioned and oriencaced. to receive a portion. of the pole clamp assembly.

With reference to FIG. 19a-19d, the pole clamp assembly 72 includes a bracket 500, a pivot member 502 and threaded post 504. The poset 504 includes a threaded stud 506 and a handle SO8. The bracket 500 is typically mounted to the back panel 72ffIG. 3) of the MDI 48 near the first and second portions S2, 54. The pivot miember 502 is formed In a general L-shape to include a first leg 510 and a second leg 512. The first leg 510 is pivotally mounted to the bracket 500 such that the pivot member 502z is moveable between an open position (FIGS. 19a and- 19c) and a closed position (FIGS. 19b and 19d)~ The second leg 51.2 carries a threaded hole for receiving the thread scud 506 and allowing for axgial movement of the stud.

As shown in FIG 19c, the bracket 500 has a generally V-shaped cro ss section. At the. point of the V is a tu~d recess 514 having a semicircular cross section and an axis 516 associated therewith. The second leg 512 of the pivot member is positioned relative the first leg SlO Lo extend over the bracket 500 such that when the pole clamp assembly 72 is in the closed position, the axis of the stud is substantially parallel with the axis 51-6 *of the stud recess. When the pole clamp assembly is in the closed position, the axis of the Post is Aubstantially perpendicular (o the axis .516 of thp stud recosS.

The handle 508 is positioned at one end of the stud S06 and is formed to include opposing curved sides 518 shaped to substantially match the curved shape of the arcuate surface of the pole clamp 340 (FIG. The handle 508 is further formed to include opposing round ends 520. When the pivotmemlber 502 is in a closed position, a portion of the hande 508 and stud 506 lie within the pole clamp recess 340 a portion of the stud resting within the stud recess 514.

The pole clamp assembly components are made of metal and may be made by extrsaiof or casting.

As previously mention and shown in FIG. 4, a medical device 12 is secured to a mounting rail 26 by visually aligning the first recess 56 and the second recess 58 with the mounting rail. Once aligned, the rail cam 60 is pushed against the mounting rail 26. The force of the mounting rail 26 agairust the sloped-guidinig portions 64 of the rail camn 60 induces rotation of the rail cam to its openreceive position. In this position the mounting rail is able to slide into the space between the arm bases 404 comes to rest between the lock surfaces 406 the top and bottomn surfaces of the first and second recesses 56, 58.

once the mounting rail 26 is positioned wirbi the rail cam 60. the cam returns to its closed/lock position and the second portions 410 the arms retain the device 12 to the rail. To remove the device 12 fromn the rail cam, the external release lever 66 is activated to cause the rail cam 60 rotate to its open/release position during which the second poilionS 410 the arms 62 move into the top and bottom arcuate regions 310, 316, thereby allowing for removal of the device from the mountng rail 26.

During installation of a medical device 1.2 to a mounting rail 26 the handle 508 may be orientated such one of the rounded end 520 is facinlg the mounting rail. Oientated as such, the handle 508 may initially interfere with the mounting process by contacting the mounting rail 26 as it is entering the recessed portions S6, 58. However, because of the rounded configuration of the handle end 520, it easily translates the force resulting from the contact between the rounded end 520 and the mounting rail 26 into rotational motion of the handle. The rounded end slides along Ehe surface of the mounting rail while rotating the handle 508 thereby orientating the handle such that one of th~e curved sides 5 18 of the handle generally aligns with the arcuatE surface defining the pole clamp recess 340 (FIG.

3).

As previously mentioned and shiown in FIG. 5, the medical device 12 may be mounted to a pole 74 using the pole clamp assembly 72. In order to do so, the arm 82 of the pole clamp assembly 72 is pivoted to its open position. The medical deuice 12 is placed on the pole 74 such that the pole lies witbin the pole clamp assembly recess 340 (FIG. 16) and the bracket S00 (PIG. 19a). The threaded post 84 is then rotated until the tip of the post contacts the pole, thereby damping the Instrument 12 to the pole 74.

It will be apparent from the foregoing t~hat while parricular forms of the invertion have been illustrated and described, various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited, except as by the appended claims.

Claims (3)

1. A medical device interface forming a part of a medical device housing, said interface for securing the medical device to a mounting rail mounted to a surface, said interface including: a back panel; a first recess carried by the back panel, the first recess dimensioned to receive the mounting rail, and a rail cam rotatably mounted at the back panel and aligned with the first recess to receive and retain the mounting rail, the rail cam being biased to a closed position at which it would engage the mounting rail to hold the medical device firmly to the rail, the rail cam having at least two arms with guiding portions and sloping surfaces for rotating the cam against its bias to an open position upon a pre-engagement encounter with a mounting rail to allow the rail to enter the first recess and the cam to engage the rail, and upon engagement, permit the cam to return to its biased closed position at which it holds the medical device firmly to the rail.

2. The medical device interface according to Claim 1 in combination with a release lever coupled to the rail cam and positioned at an external location of the housing, the lever coupled to a release linkage whereby movement of the release lever causes the linkage to rotate the rail cam to its open position for disengagement from the mounting rail.

3. The medical device interface according to either Claim 1 or 2 in combination with an instrument alignment mounting member protruding rearward from the back panel that is shaped to automatically align components at the back panel with complementary components on a docking station. R/- P 3~Q cc