Omni-Axis: Overbed Table Improvement

Abstract

Hospitalized adult inpatients and clinical staff are poorly served by current overbed tables, which are defined by their lack of maneuverability, ergonomic features and storage options. Clinical feedback gathered directly from Mayo Clinic Staff confirms this need with over 96% of staff reporting that the existing table models are difficult to move, compromising patient independence and obstructing critical staff workflow during emergencies. The solution AtlasWorks presents is an Articulated Joint Table attachment, a fully mechanical articulating arm system that mounts directly to the hospital bed’s existing rails, thus eliminating the unstable and obstructive caster wheeled floor base.

The concept, which was inspired by dental lamp and surgical neuronavigation screen technology, provides full multi-axis freedom of motion, allowing patients to precisely position the table over their lap or swing it away with minimal effort. Our architecture consists of three modular subsystems: a custom-developed, non-damaging Mounting System (a bed rail clamp), and Articulation Subsystem that contains an integrated, custom locking mechanism, and a Patient Interface Subsystem including a medical grade table surface and ergonomic lever.

Key Critical-to-Quality (CTQ) design specifications require the arm to support a 50 lb static load at a maximum reach of more than 30 inches, require less than 5 N of user repositioning force, and exhibit less than 1 mm/hr of vertical drift when in the locked position. The design is specified to meet ISO 13485 for safety and IEC 62366-1 for overall usability. The modular, all-mechanical design simplifies manufacturing, assembly, and the regulatory pathway by avoiding electronic components. By balancing custom-fabricated components (like the clamp and lock) with modified off-the-shelf parts, we are targeting a unit cost of under or around $250. This device will significantly enhance patient independence and safety while improving overall hospital workflow.

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