WO2022046688A1 - Surgical bed attachment - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a surgical bed attachment with a mounting point for surgical tools. More specifically, the surgical bed attachment is arranged and configured to removably couple with one or more features of a surgical bed to provide one or more rigid mounts for one or more surgical tools. In many embodiments, the surgical bed attachment effectively stabilizes a surgical tool (e.g., a robotic arm) against movement, such as during surgery.

Description

SURGICAL BED ATTACHMENT

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This is a non-provisional of, and claims the benefit of the filing date of, pending U.S. provisional patent application number 63/069,294, filed August 24, 2020, entitled “Surgical Bed Attachment,” the entirety of which application is incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure is directed to a surgical apparatus, and more specifically to a surgical bed attachment including a mounting point for coupling one or more surgical tools such as, for example, an orthopedic robotic arm of a computer-assisted surgical system.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Surgery may refer to the branch of medical practice that treats injuries, diseases, and deformities by the physical removal, repair, or readjustment of organs and tissues, often involving cutting into the body. Many surgeries are performed on a patient lying on a surgical bed. Additionally, a variety of tools may be used in a surgery. Some surgical tools need a rigid support. For example, a robotic arm needs a rigid support to enable reliable and accurate positioning of the robotic arm. However, the surgical tools also need to be also because different surgical tools are used in different surgical procedures and surgical tools not being used can interfere with a surgical procedure.

[0004] It is with this in mind that the present disclosure is provided.

SUMMARY

[0005] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0006] Generally, the present disclosure provides a surgical bed attachment with a mounting point for surgical tools. More specifically, the surgical bed attachment is arranged and configured to removably couple with one or more features of a surgical bed to provide one or more rigid mounts for one or more surgical tools. In many embodiments, the surgical bed attachment effectively stabilizes a surgical tool (e.g., a robotic arm) against movement, such as during surgery.

[0007] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a surgical bed attachment that includes first and second lower vertical arms, first and second upper vertical arms, a lock mechanism, a tool receiver, a rail interface, and a base. The first and second lower vertical arms may be coupled together by a cross member. The first upper vertical arm may be slidably coupled to the first lower vertical arm and the second upper vertical arm may be slidably coupled to the second lower vertical arm. The lock mechanism may have a first portion coupled to the first and second lower vertical arms and a second portion coupled to the first and second upper vertical arms. The lock mechanism may include an unlocked state and a locked state. The unlocked state of the lock mechanism may allow movement between the upper and lower vertical arms and the locked state of the lock mechanism may prevent movement between the upper and lower vertical arms. The tool receiver may be coupled to the first and second upper vertical arms. The tool receiver may include a tapered slot configured to couple with a surgical tool. The rail interface may be coupled to the first and second upper vertical arms. The rail interface may include a groove configured to receive a rail of a surgical bed. The base may be coupled to the first and second lower vertical arms. The base may include a support surface interface configured to contact a support surface when the rail of the surgical bed is received by the groove of the rail interface.

[0008] In some embodiments, the surgical bed attachment includes a biasing mechanism configured to bias the rail interface against the rail of the surgical bed and to bias the support surface interface against the support surface.

[0009] In some such embodiments, the biasing mechanism is actuated via a foot pedal.

[0010] In various embodiments, the base is coupled to the first and second lower vertical arms via the cross member.

[0011] In several embodiments, the first portion of the lock mechanism comprises a set of holes in the first upper vertical arm and the second portion of the lock mechanism comprises a linkage arm to extend into a hole in the set of holes when the lock mechanism is in the locked state. [0012] In many embodiments, the first portion of the lock mechanism comprises an inner portion of a plate fixedly attached to the first upper vertical arm and the second portion of the lock mechanism comprises an outer portion of the plate slidably attached to the first lower vertical arm.

[0013] In many such embodiments, the outer portion of the plate is slidably attached to the first lower vertical arm via a ridge on the outer portion of the plate that is received by a channel in the first upper vertical arm.

[0014] In some such embodiments, the first upper vertical arm is slidably coupled to the first lower vertical arm via the plate.

[0015] In some embodiments, the tool receiver and the rail interface are coupled to the first and second upper vertical arms via a support structure, the support structure comprising a channel rail, and the rail interface slidably coupled to the channel rail.

[0016] In some such embodiments, the support structure includes a rod coupled to the rail interface, the rod to move the rail interface along the channel rail.

[0017] In various embodiments, the first lower vertical arm is coupled to a first wheel and the second lower vertical arm is coupled to a second wheel.

[0018] In various such embodiments, the first wheel is coupled to the first lower vertical arm via a first hinge and the second wheel is coupled to the second lower vertical arm via a second hinge.

[0019] In several embodiments, the rail interface is coupled to the first and second upper vertical arms via a cross member extending between the first and second upper vertical arms.

[0020] In many embodiments, the first and second upper vertical arms are disposed between the first and second lower vertical arms.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first upper vertical arm telescopes into the first lower vertical arm and the second upper vertical arm telescopes into the second lower vertical arm.

[0022] In another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a surgical bed attachment that includes a first support structure, a second support structure, and a cross member. Each of the first and second support structures may include a rail interface, a tensioner, a tool receiver, and a horizontal arm. The first tensioner may be configured to bias the first rail interface against a first rail of a surgical bed and the first tool receiver may include a first tapered slot configured to couple with a surgical tool. The second tensioner may be configured to bias the second rail interface against a second rail of the surgical bed and the second tool receiver may include a second tapered slot configured to couple with the surgical tool. The cross member may be slidably coupled between the first and second horizontal arms.

[0023] In yet another embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a surgical bed attachment for connecting a tool to a surgical bed, such as a robotic arm or other surgical tool. The surgical bed attachment comprises a generally planar base configured to contact a support surface (e.g., an operating room floor), a plurality of vertical arms with a first end and a second end, the first end being coupled to the generally planar base, a coarse height adjustment mechanism housed between the first plurality of vertical arms, a support structure coupled to the second end of the first plurality of vertical arms, the support structure comprising a front side and a back side, a tool attachment feature (e.g., tool receiver) coupled to the back side of the support structure, a bed adaptor member (e.g., rail interface) coupled to the front side of the support structure, and a fine height adjustment mechanism housed within the support structure, wherein coupling the surgical bed attachment to the surgical bed and adjusting the fine height adjustment mechanism tensions the surgical bed attachment between the surgical bed and the support surface (e.g., operating room floor).

[0024] In additional embodiments, the surgical bed attachment comprises a set of lower vertical arms operating in a cooperating arrangement with the coarse height adjustment mechanism, a plurality of wheels, and an axle located adjacent to the base. The base may be folded from a vertical to a horizontal position.

[0025] In some embodiments, the coarse height adjustment mechanism comprises a spring-loaded button pulling detents or linkage arms into (locked state) and out of (unlocked state) apertures or holes in a set of upper vertical arms. The set of upper vertical arms may be arranged to fit within an upper opening of the set of lower vertical arms (e.g., in a telescoping arrangement). [0026] In additional embodiments, the fine height adjustment mechanism comprises a knob coupled to a threaded rod, wherein turning the knob urges a rail interface up and down a vertical axis.

[0027] On a further additional embodiment, the coarse height adjustment mechanism is omitted and the rail interface is at a common surgical bed rail height.

[0028] In further embodiments, the surgical bed attachment is attached simultaneously to a surgical bed and a surgical tool (e.g., robotic arm or another tool).

[0029] In a further embodiment, the tool attachment feature (e.g., tool receiver) has multiple attachment points for connecting various surgical tools. The tool attachment feature (e.g., tool receiver) may further include a dovetail (e.g., tapered slot). The dovetail may also include locking features.

[0030] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide numerous advantages. For example, in accordance with the present disclosure, the surgical bed attachment is arranged and configured to provide a rigid mount for a surgical tool. More specifically, the surgical bed attachment is arranged and configured to couple with one or more features of a surgical bed to provide one or more rigid mounts for one or more surgical tools. In many embodiments, the surgical bed attachment effectively stabilizes a surgical tool (e.g., robotic arm) against movement during surgery. For example, previously, robotic arms and other instruments typically needed to be attached to very heavy carts to guard the arms against unwanted or accidental movement, such as due to momentum of the arm due to movement or a bump from a medical professional. In use, the base in various embodiments of the present disclosure is tensioned against the floor of the operating room while the top side of the surgical bed attachment is mated to the surgical table rails, such as via coarse and fine height adjustment mechanisms (see e.g., FIGS. 1-13) or a biasing mechanism (see e.g., FIGS. 14A- 16B). In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the surgical bed attachment is rigidly attached to a surgical bed without contacting the floor, such as via rails on either side of the surgical bed (see e.g., FIGS. 17-18C). The surgical bed attachments of the present disclosure can be rapidly deployed, in contrast to existing heavier devices. Furthermore, the surgical bed attachment may be collapsed into an efficient and space-saving package, which preserves valuable operating room and hospital storage space. Additionally, in some embodiments, the coarse height adjustment mechanism may be removed entirely, as surgical bed rail heights are often at a standard height from the floor. In such cases, the surgical bed attachment may be provided with the rail interface at the height of the surgical bed rails. In some embodiments, surgical table rails may be used to secure the surgical bed attachment without contacting the floor.

[0031] Further features and advantages of at least some of the embodiments of the present invention, as well as the structure and operation of various embodiments of the present invention, are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] By way of example, a specific embodiment of the disclosed device will now be described, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0033] FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a surgical bed attachment mated to a surgical bed according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a surgical bed attachment mated to a surgical bed and a surgical tool according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of a surgical bed attachment mated to a surgical bed according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 5 illustrates a detail side view of mating features of a surgical bed and a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 6 illustrates a detail side view of the mating features of a surgical bed, a surgical bed attachment, and a support surface according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0040] FIG. 8 illustrates a rear perspective view of a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 9 illustrates an exploded view of a fine height adjustment mechanism for a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a fine height adjustment mechanism for a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fine height adjustment mechanism for a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded side view of a fine height adjustment mechanism for a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 13 illustrates a cut away view of a coarse height adjustment mechanism according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 14A illustrates a front perspective view of a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 14B illustrates a rear perspective view of a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 15A illustrates a front view of a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 15B illustrates a rear view of a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 15C illustrates a side view of a surgical bed attachment according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 16A illustrates a perspective view of a surgical bed attachment mated to a surgical bed and a surgical tool according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [0052] FIG. 16B illustrates a side view of a surgical bed attachment mated to a surgical bed and a surgical tool according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of a surgical bed attachment mated to rails of a surgical bed according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 18A illustrates a front view of a surgical bed attachment mated to rails of a surgical bed according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 18B illustrates a top view of a surgical bed attachment mated to rails of a surgical bed according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 18C illustrates a side view of a surgical bed attachment mated to rails of a surgical bed according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0057] The drawings are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are merely representations, not intended to portray specific parameters of the disclosure. The drawings are intended to depict example embodiments of the disclosure, and therefore are not be considered as limiting in scope. In the drawings, like numbering represents like elements.

[0058] Furthermore, certain elements in some of the figures may be omitted, or illustrated not-to-scale, for illustrative clarity. The cross-sectional views may be in the form of "slices", or "near-sighted" cross-sectional views, omitting certain background lines otherwise visible in a "true" cross-sectional view, for illustrative clarity. Furthermore, for clarity, some reference numbers may be omitted in certain drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] Various features or the like of a surgical bed attachments arranged and configured for use with a surgical bed and a surgical tool will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which one or more features of the surgical bed attachment will be shown and described. It should be appreciated that the various features may be used independently of, or in combination, with each other. It will be appreciated that a surgical bed attachment as disclosed herein may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will convey certain features of the surgical bed attachment to those skilled in the art. [0060] FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a surgical bed attachment 100 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The surgical bed attachment 100 may include a base 102, first and second lower vertical arms 104a, 104b coupled to the base 102, first and second upper vertical arms 120a, 120b slidably coupled to the first and second lower vertical arms 104a, 104b, and a support structure 110 coupled to the first and second upper vertical arms 120a, 120b. The first and second lower vertical arms 104a, 104b may be connected by a lower cross member 114 and an upper cross member 116. Support arms 108a, 108b may extend from the first and second lower vertical arms 104a, 104b and rotatably couple with wheels 112a, 112b. The upper cross member 116 may include coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 with a button 118. The support structure 110 may include a front side 126 and a back side 124. The front side 126 may include a rail interface 132 and a fine height adjustment knob 128. The back side 124 may include clips 122 for a tool receiver. In many embodiments, the surgical bed attachment 100 may facilitate removably coupling a surgical tool to a surgical table. In some embodiments, FIG. 1 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 1, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, surgical bed attachment 100 may exclude coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In some embodiments, the coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 may refer to, or include, a lock mechanism. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0061] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the surgical bed attachment 100 mated to a surgical bed 202 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The surgical bed attachment 100 may include tool receiver 206 and the surgical bed 202 may include rails 204. The tool receiver 206 may be configured to couple with a surgical tool (see e.g., surgical tool 302). In many embodiments, the surgical bed attachment 100 may couple with surgical bed 202 via one or more of rails 204. In some embodiments, FIG. 2 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 2, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, surgical bed 202 may exclude one or more of the rails 204 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context. [0062] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the surgical bed attachment 100 mated to the surgical bed 202 and a surgical tool 302 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The surgical tool 302 may rigidly couple to the surgical bed attachment 100 via tool receiver 206 (see FIG. 2). In many embodiments, the surgical tool 302 may comprise a robotic arm. In some embodiments, FIG. 3 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 3, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0063] FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the surgical bed attachment 100 mated to the surgical bed 202 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. FIG. 4 includes a box identifying a detail view 402 shown in more detail in FIG. 5. The detail view 402 illustrates the connection between the surgical bed attachment 100 and the surgical bed 202. In some embodiments, FIG. 4 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 4, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0064] FIG. 5 illustrates the detail view 402 of the mating features of surgical bed 202 and surgical bed attachment 100 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The detail view 402 includes support structure 110 with fine height adjustment knob 128 and rail interface 132 and the rail 204 of surgical bed 202. In the illustrated view, the rail 204 is received by and coupled to the rail interface 132. As will be discussed in more detail below, in many embodiments, fine height adjustment knob 128 may be rotated to tension rail interface 132 against rail 204. In some embodiments, FIG. 5 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 5, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0065] FIG. 6 illustrates a detail view of the mating features of the surgical bed 202, the surgical bed attachment 100, and a support surface 602 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. In various embodiments, the support surface may include the floor, such as the floor of a surgical room. In many embodiments, the surgical bed attachment 100 may be biased between the support surface 602 and a rail of a surgical bed. In some embodiments, the base 102 may slide under the bottom of the surgical bed 202. In some embodiments, FIG. 6 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 6, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, the surgical bed attachment 100 may be used in conjunction with a surgical bed that the base 102 is not slid under. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0066] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of surgical bed attachment 100 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. Surgical bed attachment 100 includes rail interface 132 and rail interface 132 includes groove 702. In various embodiments, groove 702 may receive an attachment feature a surgical bed (e.g., rail 204). Additionally, surgical bed attachment 100 includes support surface interface 704 on the bottom of base 102. In many embodiments, the rail interface 132 and/or rail interface 132 may contact the surgical bed and support surface interface 704 may contact the floor when the surgical bed attachment 100 is secured to a surgical bed. In some embodiments, FIG. 7 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 7, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, the rail interface 132 may not include groove 702. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0067] FIG. 8 illustrates a rear perspective view of surgical bed attachment 100 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The illustrated view includes surgical bed attachment 100 with the back side 124 of support structure 110, cross member 116, and coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 with button 118 and holes 802. In many embodiments, a linkage arm (see FIG. 13) of the coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 may extend into one of holes 802 to lock the position of the upper and lower vertical arms. In various embodiments, the linkage arms may be withdrawn from one of the holes 802 by depressing button 118. In several embodiments, coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 may be referred to as, or include, a lock mechanism. In some embodiments, FIG. 8 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 8, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 may be replaced with lock mechanism 1444 of surgical bed attachment 1400 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In another example, coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 may be excluded and the upper and lower vertical arms may be fixed relative to each other or a single vertical arm may be used. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0068] FIG. 9 illustrates an exploded view of a fine height adjustment mechanism 912 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The fine height adjustment mechanism 912 may include fine height adjustment knob 128, wedge 902, slide 904, sub housing 906 with channel rails 910a, 910b, rail interface 132, and rod 908. In various embodiments, the rod 908 may extend through the rail interface 132, slide 904, and wedge 902 and thread into fine height adjustment knob 128. Additionally, rail interface 132, slide 904, and wedge 902 may be received by channel rails 910a, 910b of sub housing 906. Accordingly, rotating fine height adjustment knob 128 in a first direction may force rail interface 132 upward and rotating fine height adjustment knob 128 in a second direction may allow rail interface 132 to slide downward. In some embodiments, FIG. 9 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 9, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, wedge 902 and slide 904 may be formed from a single piece. In another example, wedge 902 may form a portion of sub housing 906. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0069] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a fine height adjustment mechanism 912 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. In the illustrated embodiment, the wedge 902 and slide 904 are received by channel rails 910a, 910b. As previously mentioned, the rod 908 extends through rail interface 132, slide 904, and wedge 902 to thread onto fine height adjustment knob 128. Additionally, the wedge 902 may force the slide 904 include the cutouts 1002a, 1002b of channel rails 910a, 910b to lock the position of the slide 904 in channel rails 910a, 910b. In some embodiments, FIG. 10 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 10, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, wedge 902 and slide 904 may be integrally formed with the sub housing 906 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0070] FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of fine height adjustment mechanism 912 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. Fine height adjustment mechanism 912 may include fine height adjustment knob 128 and rail interface 132 with groove 702. In various embodiments, groove 702 may include one or more steps. In some embodiments, groove 702 may be formed to couple with a variety of mating features on a surgical bed. In one embodiment, rail interface 132 may be interchangeable with different types of interfaces for different mating features on a surgical bed. In some embodiments, FIG. 11 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 11, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, fine height adjustment mechanism 912 may be incorporated into surgical bed attachment 1400 (see FIGS. 14-16B) or surgical bed attachment 1700 (see FIGS. 17-18C) without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0071] FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded side view of fine height adjustment mechanism 912 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. Fine height adjustment mechanism 912 may include fine height adjustment knob 128, wedge 902, slide 904, sub housing 906, rail interface 132, and rod 908. In various embodiments, the components of fine height adjustment mechanism 912 may be formed from one or more metals, composites, and/or polymers. More generally, various components of surgical bed attachment 100 may be formed from one or more metals, composites, and/or polymers. In some embodiments, FIG. 12 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 12, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context. [0072] FIG. 13 illustrates a cut away view of coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. In several embodiments, coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 may include, or refer to, a lock mechanism. Coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 includes holes 802 in vertical arm 120a, linkage arm 1304, cam 1302, button 118, linkage arm 1306, and holes 1308 in vertical arm 120b. In many embodiments, the linkage arms 1304, 1306 may be biased into an extended position. For example, cam 1302 may be coupled a spring (e.g., a torsional spring) to bias linkage arms 1304, 1306 into an extended position. In various embodiments, button 118 may be used to rotate cam 1302 and cause linkage arm 1304 to retract from one of holes 802 and linkage arm 1306 to retract from one of holes 1308. Accordingly, coarse height adjustments can be made with the linkage arms 1304, 1306 with button 118 depressed and then locked into place by releasing the button 118 such that linkage arm 1304 extends into one of holes 802 and linkage arm 1306 extends into one of holes 1308. In some embodiments, FIG. 13 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 13, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 may be incorporated into surgical bed attachment 1400, such as by replacing lock mechanism 1444. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0073] More generally, various embodiments of a surgical bed attachment 100 are shown in FIGS. 1-13. Surgical bed attachment 100 has a base 102, which may be generally planar. In certain embodiments, the base 102 may be provided with features that improve engagement with a floor, such as pads, cut out portions, feet, or malleable coatings. Vertical arms 104a, 104b are shown in FIG. 1 with a rectangular cross-section, but this is not essential to the disclosure. Any shape that provides sufficient strength is envisaged, such as circular. Wheel housing 130 is connected to the bed attachment 100 adjacent to the lower end of the surgical bed attachment 100, and provides support for a first cross member 114 as well as support arms 108a, 108b for wheels 112a, 112b, respectively. First cross member 114 spans the distance between vertical arms 104a, 104b and assists in the structural rigidity of the surgical bed attachment 100.

[0074] Second cross member 116 spans the distance between the upper ends of vertical arms 104a, 104b. Coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 is housed within second cross member 116. In some embodiments, the coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 may include or be referred to as a lock mechanism. As shown in greater detail in FIG. 13, coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 includes a spring biased button 118. Button 118 may be connected to a cam 1302 and linkage arms 1304, 1306. The outer ends of linkage arms 1304, 1306 may extend through the cross member 116 and mate with holes 802 in the vertical arms 120a, 120b. Linkage arms 1304, 1306 may be biased to engage the holes 802. In various embodiments disclosed hereby, apertures or holes may be considered coupled to the component there are in. For example, holes 802 may be considered coupled to upper vertical arm 120a. Although a particular mechanism has been depicted in FIG. 13, any mechanism that serves to raise and lower the height of the surgical bed attachment 100 is envisaged and the disclosure is not to be limited by this particular embodiment.

[0075] Moving further proximally, support structure 110 is coupled to the upper ends of vertical arms 120a, 120b. The support structure 110 includes a front side 126. The front side 126 may include a rail interface 132 with features designed to engage a rail 204 on a surgical bed 202 (see e.g., FIGS. 2 and 4). In addition, the support structure 110 includes a back side 124. The back side 124 has features configured to engage a surgical tool 302, such as a robotic arm (see e.g., FIG. 3). In the particular embodiment shown, back side 124 has dovetail features so that the base of surgical tool 302 may be dropped into support structure 110. In other embodiments, back side 124 may allow for multiple surgical tools to be releasably attached to the surgical bed attachment 100, such as multiple robotic arms, spider retractors, and the like. Additionally, back side 124 may include clips 122. The clips 122 may rotate about a vertical axis of the surgical bed attachment 100, and be used to lock the surgical tool 302 into the surgical bed attachment 100.

[0076] Surgical bed attachment 100 is also equipped with a support structure 110 (see e.g., FIGS. 9-12. In many embodiments, the support structure 110 may include the support structure 110. Fine height adjustment knob 128 is housed on top of wedge 902, which in turn is housed within support structure sub housing 906. In some embodiments, when a user turns fine height adjustment knob 128, threads on the fine height adjustment knob 128 engage threads on rod 908, moving rod 908 up and down. Rail interface 132 is also coupled to the rod 908 (e.g., via a head on rod 908), and as fine height adjustment knob 128 is turned, rail interface 132 is also raised and lowered. The support structure 110 described is merely intended to be illustrative and is not intended to limit the disclosure. Variations of thread type, pitch, and different mechanisms are all envisaged by the present disclosure.

[0077] Surgical bed attachment 100 may be stored with the upper vertical arms 120a, 120b fully lowered within the lower vertical arms 104a, 104b. Additionally, base 102 may in certain embodiments be attached to vertical arms 104a, 104b via a binge mechanism, which allows base 102 to pivot into a vertical position. In such embodiments, the base may swing into a horizontal position for usage. The base 102 may then be slid under the surgical bed 202 and the rail interface 132 raised to the height of the rails 204 on the surgical bed 202 with the coarse height adjustment mechanism 106. In many embodiments, the rail interface 132 may be loosely mated with the rail 204 with the coarse height adjustment mechanism 106 and then the fine height adjustment knob 128 is turned to secure a rigid connection by increasing the engagement between the rail interface 132 and the rail 204. Next, a surgical tool (e.g., surgical tool 302) may be lowered into the tool receiver 206 and clips 122 be used to secure the tool to the surgical bed attachment 100. Additionally, surgical bed attachment 100 may be positioned at a variety of locations along the surgical bed 202, such as anywhere rails 204 or other bed attachment engagement features are present.

[0078] While some of the illustrated embodiments show the base of a surgical bed attachment sliding underneath a surgical bed, this may not be necessary for proper functioning of the surgical bed attachment. In some embodiments, the surgical bed may be fixed to the floor, or may have supports that do not allow the base to fit under a bed. In this case, the surgical bed attachment base may simply use the counter pressure from the floor to achieve stability. In some cases, a user may wish to lower or raise a surgical bed. This may be better achieved before the surgical bed attachment of the present disclosure is attached to the surgical bed.

[0079] FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate front and rear perspective views of a surgical bed attachment 1400 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The surgical bed attachment 1400 may include first and second lower vertical arms 1404a, 1404b coupled to first and second upper vertical arms 1406a, 1406b via a lock mechanism 1444. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second upper vertical arms are disposed between the first and second lower vertical arms. The lower vertical arms 1404a, 1404b may be connected by a cross member 1418. Biasing mechanism 1414 may be coupled to the lower vertical arms 1404a, 1404b via cross member 1418. Vertical arm 1404a may be attached to a wheel 112a via a hinge 1426a and vertical arm 1404b may be attached to a wheel 112b via a hinge 1426b. The upper vertical arms 1404a, 1404b may be connected by a cross member 1420, a rail interface 1408, a support structure 1410, and a handle 1424. In various embodiments, the surgical bed attachment 1400 may function to provide one or more robust and rigid mounting points (e.g., tool receiver 1422) for one or more surgical tools. In some embodiments, FIGS. 14A and 14B may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIGS. 14A and 14B, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, biasing mechanism 1414 may be incorporated into surgical bed attachment 100 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0080] In various embodiments, the rail interface 1408 may be secured to a rail by forcing support surface interface 1412 against a floor with biasing mechanism 1414. The biasing mechanism 1414 may include biasing mechanism interface 1428 and base 1438 with support surface interface 1412. The ends of lower vertical arms 1404a, 1404b may include feet 1432a, 1432b, respectively. In various embodiments, support surface interface 1412 and/or feet 1432a, 1432b may include anti-slip coverings. The feet 1432a, 1432b may be utilized to facilitate utilizing hinges 1426a, 1426b to swing the wheels 1416a, 1416b into a stowed position. When in the in the out position (shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B), the wheels 1416a, 1416b may be utilized in conjunction with handle 1424 to move the surgical bed attachment 1400. In some embodiments, the biasing mechanism interface 1428 may comprise one or more pedals, such as to raise and lower a jack included in the biasing mechanism. In some embodiments, analogous to surgical bed attachment 100, lock mechanism 1444 may be utilized for coarse height adjustments and biasing mechanism 1414 may be utilized for fine height adjustments.

[0081] The illustrated vertical arms 1404a, 1404b, 1406a, 1406b may include channels that provide continuous mounting points to appropriately shaped ridges. For example, the ridges and the channels may utilize corresponding cross-sectional shapes to restrict movement other than up and down. Compression or tension may then be utilized to selectively restrict movement in the up and down direction. For example, the corresponding cross-section shapes may be configured to restrict up and down movement when a force is applied pulling out on a ridge in a corresponding channel. In some embodiments one or more components of surgical bed attachment 1400 may be coupled to the vertical arms 1404a, 1404b, 1406a, 1406b via the ridges. In several embodiments, the lock mechanism 1444 may connect the upper vertical arms 1404a, 1404b to lower vertical arms using channels 1440a, 1440b and ridges 1442a, 1442b. The lock mechanism 1444 may include front plates 1434a, 1436b, back plates 1436a, 1434b, and arm locks 1430a, 1430b. Arm locks 1430a, 1430b, may be utilized to selectively restrict movement between the upper and lower vertical arms in the up and down direction. For example, arm lock 1430a may be rotated in a first direction to compress portions of the upper and lower vertical arms between front plate 1434a and back plate 1436a. Similarly, arm lock 1430b may be rotated in the first direction to compress portions of the upper and lower vertical arms between front plate 1436b and back plate 1434b. In the illustrated embodiment, a first portion of the lock mechanism 1444 comprises an inner portion of a plate (e.g., front plate 1434a) fixedly attached to the first upper vertical arm 1406a and a second portion of the lock mechanism 1444 comprises an outer portion of the plate (e.g., front plate 1434a) slidably attached to the first lower vertical arm 1404a. Further, the outer portion of the plate may be slidably attached to the first lower vertical arm via ridge 1442b on the outer portion of the plate that is received by channel 1440b in the first upper vertical arm. In some such embodiments, the first upper vertical arm is slidably coupled to the first lower vertical arm via the plate.

[0082] In many embodiments, the support structure 1410 may be attached to the upper vertical arms 1404a, 1404b and provide a mounting point for surgical tools. The support structure 1410 may include tool receiver 1422 and clips 1402a, 1402b. In various embodiments, clip 1402a, 1402b may be utilized to secure a surgical tool in the tool receiver 1422. For example, the tool receiver 1422 may include a tapered slot, overhang features, and/or corresponding cross-sectional shapes to rigidly connect with a surgical tool via compressive forces applied via clips 1402a, 1402b. Various components of the surgical bed attachment 1400 may be formed from one or more metals, composites, and/or polymers.

[0083] FIG. 15A illustrates a front view of the surgical bed attachment 1400 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The illustrated view includes lower vertical arms 1404a, 1404b, upper vertical arms 1406a, 1406b, rail interface 1408, and biasing mechanism 1414. In some embodiments, FIG. 15A may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 15A, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, rail interface 1408 may be incorporated into surgical bed attachment 100 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0084] FIG. 15B illustrates a back view of the surgical bed attachment 1400 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The illustrated view includes support structure 1410, handle 1424, arm locks 1430a, 1430b, wheels 1416a, 1416b, and biasing mechanism interface 1428. In some embodiments, FIG. 15B may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 15B, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, support structure 1410 may be the same or similar to support structure 110 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In such examples, rail interface 1408 may be removed to support utilization of rail interface 132. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0085] FIG. 15C illustrates a side view of the surgical bed attachment 1400 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The illustrated view includes biasing mechanism 1414, wheel 1416a, lock mechanism 1444, and rail interface 1408 with groove 1502. In some embodiments, rail interface 1408 and/or groove 1502 may be interchangeable to accommodate a broad range of mating features on surgical beds. In the illustrated embodiment, the rail interface 1408 is coupled to the first and second upper vertical arms 1406a, 1406b via a cross member extending between the first and second upper vertical arms. In some embodiments, FIG. 15C may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 15C, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, groove 1502 may be the same or similar to groove 702.

Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0086] FIG. 16A illustrates a perspective view of surgical bed attachment 1400 mated to a surgical bed 1604 and a surgical tool 1602 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The illustrated view includes surgical bed attachment 1400 coupled to surgical bed 1604 via one of the several rails 1606a. In some embodiments, FIG. 16A may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 16A, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, surgical tool 1602 may be the same or similar to surgical tool 302. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0087] FIG. 16B illustrates a side view of surgical bed attachment 1400 mated to a surgical bed 1604 and a surgical tool 1602 according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The illustrated view includes surgical bed attachment 1400 coupled to surgical bed 1604 via rail interface 1408. The surgical bed 1604 includes rails 1606a, 1606b. The biasing mechanism 1414 may be utilized to apply a force pushing down through the support surface interface 1412 into a floor and a force up through the rail interface 1408 into rail 1606a to secure surgical bed attachment 1400 to surgical bed 1604. Additionally, support structure 1410 may be utilized to rigidly secure surgical tool 1602 to the surgical bed attachment 1400 and the surgical bed 1604. In some embodiments, FIG. 16B may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Further, one or more components of FIG. 16B, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, surgical bed 1604 may be the same or similar to surgical bed 202. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0088] FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of a surgical bed attachment 1700 mated to rails 1606a, 1606b according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The illustrated view includes surgical bed attachment 1700 coupled to rails 1606a, 1606b. Accordingly, the surgical bed attachment 1700 may provide one or more rigid mounting points for surgical tools by coupling to rails 1606a, 1606b on both sides of a surgical bed. It will be appreciated that the surgical bed 1604 corresponding to rails 1606a, 1606b is not illustrated for clarity. The surgical bed attachment 1700 may include a first support structure 1704a slidably coupled to a second support structure 1704b via cross member 1702. In many embodiments, the cross member 1702 may extend across the surface of a surgical bed, such as under a mattress or pad. In some embodiments, FIG. 17 may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. For example, support structures 1704a, 1704b may be the same or similar to support structure 110 or support structure 1410. Further, one or more components of FIG. 17, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0089] FIG. 18A illustrates a front view of the surgical bed attachment 1700 mated to rails 1606a, 1606b according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The illustrated view includes support structure 1704a slidably coupled to support structure 1704b via cross member 1702 and rails 1606a, 1606b via rail interfaces 1802a, 1802b. The support structure 1704a may include rail interface 1802a, horizontal arm 1804a, tensioner 1814a, and sub housing 1816a and the support structure 1704b may include rail interface 1802b, horizontal arm 1804b, tensioner 1814b, and sub housing 1816b. In various embodiments, the surgical bed attachment 1700 may be secured using a close fit dovetail. In other embodiments, a cam mechanism or threaded clamp interface may be utilized. In some embodiments, FIG. 18A may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. For example, tensioners 1814a, 1814b may be the same or similar to fine height adjustment knob 128. In another example, sub housings 1816a, 1816b may be the same or similar to sub housing 906. Further, one or more components of FIG. 18A, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0090] FIG. 18B illustrates a top view of the surgical bed attachment 1700 mated to rails 1606a, 1606b according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The illustrated view includes support structure 1704a with clips 1808a, 1810a and tensioner opening 1818a and support structure 1704b with clips 1808b, 1810b and tensioner opening 1818b. In various embodiments, tensioner 1814a may extend through tensioner opening 1818a and couple with rail interface 1802a and tensioner 1814b may extend through tensioner opening 1818b and couple with rail interface 1802b in a manner similar to fine height adjustment knob 128, rod 908, and rail interface 132 (see e.g., FIGS. 9-12). Accordingly, in some embodiments, support structures 1704a, 1704b may each incorporate and utilize the fine height adjustment mechanism 912 to secure to the rails 1606a, 1606b. In some embodiments, FIG. 18B may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. For example, clips 1808a, 1808b, 1810a, 1810b may be the same or similar to clips 122 or clips 1402a, 1402b. Further, one or more components of FIG. 18B, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0091] FIG. 18C illustrates a side view of the surgical bed attachment 1700 mated to rail 1606a according to one or more embodiments disclosed hereby. The illustrated view includes tool mounting plate 1806 received by tool receiver 1812 of support structure 1704a and secured to the support structure 1704a using clips 1808a, 1810a. In various embodiments, the tool receiver 1812 may attach to the tool mounting plate 1806 via a dovetail. In some embodiments, a quick-release cam mechanism (similar to cam 1302) may be used for removing the surgical tool from the tool receiver 1812. It will be appreciated that the tool mounting plate 1806 may comprise a portion of a surgical tool (e.g., surgical tool 1602). In some embodiments, FIG. 18C may include one or more components that are the same or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. For example, tool receiver 1812 may be the same or similar to tool receiver 206 or tool receiver 1422. Further, one or more components of FIG. 18C, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure, or excluded from the described embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this context.

[0092] While the present disclosure refers to certain embodiments, numerous modifications, alterations, and changes to the described embodiments are possible without departing from the sphere and scope of the present disclosure, as defined in the appended claim(s). Accordingly, it is intended that the present disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, but that it has the full scope defined by the language of the following claims, and equivalents thereof. The discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be explanatory and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these embodiments. In other words, while illustrative embodiments of the disclosure have been described in detail herein, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed, and that the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations, except as limited by the prior art.

[0093] Directional terms such as top, bottom, superior, inferior, medial, lateral, anterior, posterior, proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, longitudinal, front, back, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise, and counterclockwise) and the like may have been used herein. Such directional references are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader’s understanding of the present disclosure. For example, the term “distal” may refer to the end farthest away from the medical professional/operator when introducing a device into a patient, while the term “proximal” may refer to the end closest to the medical professional when introducing a device into a patient. Such directional references do not necessarily create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of this disclosure. As such, directional references should not be limited to specific coordinate orientations, distances, or sizes, but are used to describe relative positions referencing particular embodiments. Such terms are not generally limiting to the scope of the claims made herein. Any embodiment or feature of any section, portion, or any other component shown or particularly described in relation to various embodiments of similar sections, portions, or components herein may be interchangeably applied to any other similar embodiment or feature shown or described herein.

[0094] While the present disclosure refers to certain embodiments, numerous modifications, alterations, and changes to the described embodiments are possible without departing from the sphere and scope of the present disclosure, as defined in the appended claim(s). Accordingly, it is intended that the present disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments. Rather these embodiments should be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character. All changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are to be considered within the scope of the disclosure. The present disclosure should be given the full scope defined by the language of the following claims, and equivalents thereof. Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosure belongs.

[0095] The foregoing description has broad application. The discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be explanatory and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these embodiments. In other words, while illustrative embodiments of the disclosure have been described in detail herein, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed, and that the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations, except as limited by the prior art. [0096] It should be understood that, as described herein, an "embodiment" (such as illustrated in the accompanying figures) may refer to an illustrative representation of an environment or article or component in which a disclosed concept or feature may be provided or embodied, or to the representation of a manner in which just the concept or feature may be provided or embodied. However, such illustrated embodiments are to be understood as examples (unless otherwise stated), and other manners of embodying the described concepts or features, such as may be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art upon learning the concepts or features from the present disclosure, are within the scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” of the present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features.

[0097] In addition, it will be appreciated that while the figures may show one or more embodiments of concepts or features together in a single embodiment of an environment, article, or component incorporating such concepts or features, such concepts or features are to be understood (unless otherwise specified) as independent of and separate from one another and are shown together for the sake of convenience and without intent to limit to being present or used together. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used separately, or with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present subject matter covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0098] As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” or “includes” and/or “including” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, regions, steps, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.

[0099] The phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or”, as used herein, are open- ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. The terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. [00100] Connection references (e.g., engaged, attached, coupled, connected, and joined) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a collection of elements and relative to movement between elements unless otherwise indicated. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other. Identification references (e.g., primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to connote importance or priority, but are used to distinguish one feature from another. The drawings are for purposes of illustration only and the dimensions, positions, order and relative to sizes reflected in the drawings attached hereto may vary.

[00101] The foregoing discussion has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. For example, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more embodiments or configurations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. However, it should be understood that various features of the certain embodiments or configurations of the disclosure may be combined in alternate embodiments or configurations. Moreover, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description by this reference, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus, the apparatus comprising: first and second lower vertical arms coupled together by a cross member; first and second upper vertical arms, the first upper vertical arm slidably coupled to the first lower vertical arm and the second upper vertical arm slidably coupled to the second lower vertical arm; a lock mechanism having a first portion coupled to the first and second lower vertical arms and a second portion coupled the first and second upper vertical arms, the lock mechanism comprising an unlocked state and a locked state, wherein the unlocked state of the lock mechanism allows movement between upper and lower vertical arms and the locked state of the lock mechanism prevents movement between upper and lower vertical arms; a tool receiver coupled to the first and second upper vertical arms, the tool receiver comprising a tapered slot configured to couple with a medical tool; a rail interface coupled to the first and second upper vertical arms, the rail interface comprising a groove configured to receive a rail of a surgical bed; and a base coupled to the first and second lower vertical arms, the base comprising a support surface interface configured to contact a support surface when the rail of the surgical bed is received by the groove of the rail interface.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a biasing mechanism configured to bias the rail interface against the rail of the surgical bed and to bias the support surface interface against the support surface.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the biasing mechanism is actuated via a foot pedal.

4. The apparatus according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the base is coupled to the first and second lower vertical arms via a cross member.

5. The apparatus according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the first portion of the lock mechanism comprises a set of holes in the first upper vertical

26 arm and the second portion of the lock mechanism comprises a linkage arm to extend into a hole in the set of holes when the lock mechanism is in the locked state.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the first portion of the lock mechanism comprises an inner portion of a plate fixedly attached to the first upper vertical arm and the second portion of the lock mechanism comprises an outer portion of the plate slidably attached to the first lower vertical arm.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the outer portion of the plate is slidably attached to the first lower vertical arm via a ridge on the outer portion of the plate that is received by a channel in the first upper vertical arm.

8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the first upper vertical arm is slidably coupled to the first lower vertical arm via the plate.

9. The apparatus according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the tool receiver and the rail interface are coupled to the first and second upper vertical arms via a support structure, the support structure comprising a channel rail, and the rail interface slidably coupled to the channel rail.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the support structure includes a rod coupled to the rail interface, the rod to move the rail interface along the channel rail.

11. The apparatus according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the first lower vertical arm is coupled to a first wheel and the second lower vertical arm is coupled to a second wheel.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first wheel is coupled to the first lower vertical arm via a first hinge and the second wheel is coupled to the second lower vertical arm via a second hinge.

13. The apparatus according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the rail interface is coupled to the first and second upper vertical arms via a cross member extending between the first and second upper vertical arms.

14. The apparatus according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the first and second upper vertical arms are disposed between the first and second lower vertical arms.

15. The apparatus according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the first upper vertical arm telescopes into the first lower vertical arm and the second upper vertical arm telescopes into the second lower vertical arm.