REORIENTABLE PATIENT MONITORING SYSTEM INCLUDING MULTIPLE MONITORS

A patient monitoring system is disclosed and may include a monitor mount. Further, the system may include a first monitor that may have a first user interface and a plurality of ports for receiving a plurality of cables from a plurality of physiologic sensors. The system may also include a second monitor that may include a second user display. The second monitor is adapted to receive and engage the first monitor to form a dual monitor assembly and the monitor mount is adapted to receive the dual monitor assembly in a first orientation in which the plurality of cables protrude from a first side of the dual monitor assembly and a second orientation opposite the first orientation in which the plurality of cables protrude from a second side of the dual monitor assembly.

FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to a patient monitor system having a mount, a smaller monitor, and a larger monitor that is adapted to removably receive the smaller monitor, with the smaller monitor and/or the larger monitor configured to be removably attached to the mount alone or in combination, and to provide for data and power transfer between the monitors and the mount.

BACKGROUND

Monitors that include electronic visual displays are utilized in a large number of applications within a wide variety of industries including, for example, the healthcare industry, the military, and the oil and gas industry. Many of the applications within such industries require such monitors to, at times, be portable, and, at other times, be stationary. For example, in the healthcare industry, when not being used in transport of a patient or when a patient is ambulatory, monitors can be connected to a monitor mount. Such monitor mounts can provide a variety of functions including providing physical support, a power source, and a conduit to one or more computer networks.

One type of monitor is a patient monitor which is used by healthcare facilities to monitor and display information about a patient, such as vital signs, status of connected devices (e.g., physiological sensors, etc.), and the like. Patient monitors can be portable devices that travel with the patient in order to provide continuous monitoring during care. When a patient arrives at a hospital room or other treatment location, the patient monitor is often plugged into or otherwise connected to a patient monitor mount. Patient monitor mounts provide a physical interface for the patient monitor and are generally fixed to the treatment location. Patient monitor mounts can also provide electrical connection to other devices or infrastructure, such as power to recharge patient monitor batteries, network connectivity to other medical devices or hospital computer systems, and the like.

During the course of providing healthcare to patients, practitioners typically connect at least one type of sensor to a patient to sense, derive or otherwise monitor at least one type of patient medical parameter. Such patient connected sensors are further connected to the monitor that includes all relevant electronic components that enable conversion, manipulation and processing of the data sensed by the at least one type of sensor in order to generate patient medical parameters. These patient medical parameters may be stored in one or more modules and are usable by healthcare practitioners (e.g., nurses, doctors, physician assistants, or any other person charged with providing a healthcare service to a patient) in monitoring a patient and determining a course of healthcare to be provided to the patient. Additionally, or alternatively, the one or more modules may contain data, such as patient treatment data, to be transferred to the monitor mount and/or the monitor.

The monitor may be selectively connected to a patient at any point during which a healthcare professional comes into contact with the patient and may remain connected with the patient as the patient moves through various locations within a particular healthcare enterprise (e.g., hospital) or between different healthcare enterprises (e.g., an ambulance and/or different medical facilities). The monitor and/or the module can allow data representing the at least one patient medical parameter to be communicated to other systems within the healthcare enterprise. This data may then be used by different systems in further patient care.

In view of the foregoing, there is a need for a modular system in which a monitor assembly may be moved between at least two orientations without removing any physiologic sensor cables from the monitor assembly.

SUMMARY

In a first aspect of the present disclosure, a patient monitoring system is disclosed and may include a monitor mount. Further, the system may include a first monitor that may have a first user interface and a plurality of ports for receiving a plurality of cables from a plurality of physiologic sensors. The system may also include a second monitor that may include a second user display. The second monitor is adapted to receive and engage the first monitor to form a dual monitor assembly and the monitor mount is adapted to receive the dual monitor assembly in a first orientation in which the plurality of cables protrude from a first side of the dual monitor assembly and a second orientation opposite the first orientation in which the plurality of cables protrude from a second side of the dual monitor assembly.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a patient monitor is disclosed and may include a housing having a docking slot formed therein. The docking slot may be sized and shaped to receive another patient monitor therein. The patient monitor may include a handle assembly that may extend from the housing. The handle assembly may include a first handle and a second handle that may form a base adapted to support the patient monitor in an upright position.

In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating a patient monitoring system is disclosed and may include engaging a first monitor with a second monitor to form a dual monitor assembly. A plurality of physiologic sensor cables may extend from the first monitor. The method may further include engaging the dual monitor assembly with a monitor mount in a first orientation, disengaging the dual monitor assembly for the first orientation, and engaging the dual monitor assembly with the monitor mount in a second orientation opposite the first orientation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For example, in the description of the figures that follow, the automatic power on apparatus, system, method, and circuit are implemented in patient monitors. However, it should be understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the automatic power on apparatus, system, method, and circuit of the present disclosure can be implemented in other medical or electronic devices. The implementation of the automatic power on apparatus, system, method, and circuit in the patient monitors is meant only to assist in the understanding of the present disclosure and in no way is meant to limit the implementation the automatic power on apparatus, system, method, and circuit described herein.

Features from different embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments, unless specifically noted otherwise. Variations or modifications described with respect to one of the embodiments may also be applicable to other embodiments. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form rather than in detail in order to avoid obscuring the embodiments.

It is to be understood that the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the”, include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a processor” or “a memory” includes reference to one or more of such processors or memories.

The expressions such as “include” and “may include” which may be used in the present disclosure denote the presence of the disclosed functions, operations, and constituent elements, and do not limit the presence of one or more additional functions, operations, and constituent elements. In the present disclosure, terms such as “include” and/or “have”, may be construed to denote a certain characteristic, number, operation, constituent element, component or a combination thereof, but should not be construed to exclude the existence of or a possibility of the addition of one or more other characteristics, numbers, operations, constituent elements, components or combinations thereof.

In the present disclosure, the expression “and/or” includes any and all combinations of the associated listed words. For example, the expression “A and/or B” may include A, may include B, or may include both A and B.

In the present disclosure, expressions including ordinal numbers, such as “first”, “second”, and/or the like, may modify various elements. However, such elements are not limited by the above expressions. For example, the above expressions do not limit the sequence and/or importance of the elements. The above expressions are used merely for the purpose of distinguishing an element from the other elements. For example, a first box and a second box indicate different boxes, although both are boxes. For further example, a first element could be termed a second element, and similarly, a second element could also be termed a first element without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The subject matter described herein is directed to systems and apparatuses directed to monitors (e.g., display monitors having visual electronic displays) and monitor mounts providing physical support and, in some cases, power and access to a communications/computer network. Use of such systems and apparatuses can, for example, occur in a medical environment such as the scene of a medical event, an ambulance, a hospital or a doctor's office. When a patient undergoes initial patient monitoring in such an environment, a minimum set of sensors can be connected to a patient to collect various types of patient information (e.g., physiological information) as described in detail herein. As a patient is moved from one area of care within the medical environment to another area of care, the patient monitor can travel with the patient. In some situations, the patient monitor can be mounted to a monitor mount to provide for stationary observation of the patient information on a visual electronic display. During the course of patient monitoring, the number of sensors can also increase due to increased testing and/or monitoring of the patient. In such a scenario, a patient monitor initially monitoring the patient can be docked onto a monitor mount having a second, larger monitor in order to expand the number of sensors available for patient monitoring and/or increase the number of patient parameters on a single visual electronic display by docking the smaller patient monitor to or within a larger patient monitor. The initial patient monitor can either remain within the larger patient monitor or be removed from the larger patient monitor.

FIG.1is a logical diagram illustrating the example system including a first monitor120, a second monitor140, and a monitor mount160. In an exemplary implementation, the monitor mount160may be detachably secured to a support structure (not shown) (e.g., a wall-mounted arm) via any attachment mechanism (not shown) such as a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) mounting interface adapted to an attachment mechanism in a hospital room in which a patient110is being monitored and/or treated via one or more modules, for example one or more physiological sensors and/or medical devices (connected to lead-lines112).

The monitor mount160may detachably secure the second monitor140, and the second monitor140can detachably secure (or otherwise physically interface with) the first monitor120. The first monitor120may be first mounted or otherwise detachably secured to the second monitor140to form a two monitor system, and the monitor system may be then detectably secured to the monitor mount160. Alternatively, the second monitor140may be first mounted or otherwise detachably secured to the monitor mount160, and the first monitor120may be subsequently inserted into or otherwise mounted within a mounting area defined by the second monitor140, the monitor mount160, or both the second monitor140and the monitor mount160. For example, the mounting area may be defined by a volume or cavity formed when the second monitor140and the monitor mount160are coupled together.

Therefore, the example system provides an interconnected, versatile, and comprehensive patient care solution with a high degree of configurability. The example system acquires data at the bedside and on transport, without having to disconnect a patient as he or she is moved from care area to care area. The example system can be scaled depending on the patient's changing acuity level and medical devices can be customized to better suit hospital protocols and use models. Accordingly, the example system thereby improves clinical workflow.

The monitor mount160can detachably secure (or otherwise physically interface with) both of the first monitor120and the second monitor140, alone or in combination. As will be described in further detail below, the first monitor120has a shape and size which differs from that of the second monitor140. Nonetheless, both of the first monitor120and the second monitor140are able to be concurrently secured to the monitor mount160.

The first monitor120can, for example, be a patient monitor that is used to monitor various physiological parameters for a patient110. With such a variation, the first monitor120can include a sensor interface122that can be used to connect via wired and/or wireless interfaces to one or more physiological sensors and/or medical devices (e.g., such as those attached to lead-lines112that may include, for example, electrocardiogram (ECG) electrodes, an oxygen saturation (SpO2) sensor, noninvasive blood pressure (NIBP) sensors, blood pressure cuffs, apnea detection sensors, end-tidal carbon dioxide (etCO2) sensors, respirators, temperature, and other similar physiological data.) associated with the patient110. The first monitor120can include one or more processors124(e.g., programmable data processors, etc.) which can execute various instructions stored in memory130of the first monitor120. Various data and graphical user interfaces can be conveyed to a user via an electronic visual display126included in the first monitor120. This information can, for example, relate to the measured physiological parameters of the patient110and the like (e.g., ECG waveforms, blood pressure, heart related information, pulse oximetry, respiration information, temperature, etc.). Other types of information can also be conveyed by the electronic visual display126. In some variations, the electronic visual display126includes a touch screen interface that allows a user of the first monitor120to input data and/or modify the operation of the first monitor120.

The first monitor120can additionally include a communications interface128which allows the first monitor120to directly or indirectly (via, for example, the monitor mount160) access one or more computing networks. The communications interface128can include, various network cards/interfaces to enable wired and wireless communications with such computing networks. The communications interface128can also enable direct (i.e., device-to-device, etc.) communications (i.e., messaging, signal exchange, etc.) such as from the monitor mount160to the first monitor120.

The first monitor120can optionally also include a power source and/or conduit132that can be used to power the various components of the first monitor120(and optionally various components of the second monitor140and/or the monitor mount160). The power source/conduit132can include a self-contained power source such as a battery pack and/or the power source/conduit132can include an interface to be powered through an electrical outlet (either directly or indirectly by way of the second monitor140and/or the monitor mount160). In some variations, the first monitor120can only be powered and render information when secured or otherwise connected to one or more of the second monitor140and the monitor mount160.

The second monitor140can include one or more processors142(e.g., programmable data processors, etc.) which can execute various instructions stored in memory144of the second monitor140. Various data and graphical user interfaces can be conveyed to the user via an electronic visual display146included in the second monitor140. This information can, for example, relate to the measured physiological parameters of the patient110and the like (e.g., blood pressure, heart related information, pulse oximetry, respiration information, thermoregulation, neonatal information, ventilator information, anesthesia information, incubation information, etc.) as received from the first monitor120. Other types of information can also be conveyed by the electronic visual display146. In some variations, the electronic visual display146includes a touch screen interface that allows a user of the second monitor140to input data and/or modify the operation of the second monitor140.

The second monitor140can additionally include a communications interface148which allows the second monitor140to directly or indirectly (via, for example, the first monitor120and/or the monitor mount160) access one or more computing networks. The communications interface148can include various network cards/interfaces to enable wired and wireless communications with such computing networks. The communications interface148can also enable direct (i.e., device-to-device, etc.) communications (i.e., messaging, signal exchange, etc.) such as from the monitor mount160to the second monitor140and the first monitor120to the second monitor140.

The second monitor140can optionally also include a power source and/or conduit150that can be used to power the various components of the second monitor140(and optionally various components of the first monitor120). The power source/conduit150can include a self-contained power source such as a battery pack and/or the power source/conduit150can include an interface to be powered through an electrical outlet (either directly or by way of the first monitor120and/or the monitor mount160). In some variations, the second monitor140can only be powered and render information when secured or otherwise connected to one or more of the first monitor120and the monitor mount160.

The second monitor140can include a second coupling145which is configured to detachably secure the first monitor120. In some variations, the second coupling145may be positioned in a receptacle of the second monitor140. The receptacle may be defined in a lateral direction of the second monitor140and have open side portions for receiving the first monitor120. For example, the user can visually confirm the location of the second coupling145and transversely insert the first monitor120into the second monitor140. In some variations, the receptacle may have an open top portion instead of open side portions such that the first monitor120can be dropped into the second monitor140from above; and removed (e.g., lifted out) from the second monitor140from above.

The monitor mount160can include one or more processors162(e.g., programmable data processors, etc.) which can execute various instructions stored in memory164of the monitor mount160. The monitor mount160can additionally include a communications interface166which allows the monitor mount160to directly or indirectly access one or more computing networks. The communications interface166can include various network cards/interfaces to enable wired and wireless communications with such computing networks. The communications interface166can also enable direct (i.e., device-to-device, etc.) communications (i.e., messaging, signal exchange, etc.) such as with the first monitor120and/or the second monitor140.

The monitor mount160can optionally also include a power source and/or conduit168that can be used to power the various components of the monitor mount160and/or the first monitor120and/or the second monitor140when secured to the monitor mount160. The power source/conduit168can include a self-contained power source such as a battery pack and/or the power source/conduit168can include an interface to be powered through an electrical outlet.

Any of the processors124,142,162may acquire data from any of the monitor mount160and one or more of the monitors120,140and store the acquired data in a memory and, upon connection of the monitor mount160and one or more of the monitors120,140, transfer the data stored in the memory to the monitor mount160or one or more of the monitors120,140. The data may include any of patient identification data including information identifying a patient; patient parameter data representing at least one type of patient parameter being monitored; and device configuration data including information associated with configuration settings for the monitor mount160and/or the one or more monitors120,140.

The monitor mount160can optionally also include any mounting interface, such as a VESA mounting interface for mounting the monitor mount at the bedside, from the ceiling, on a wall of the room, or even outside the room for isolation purposes.

The monitor mount160can optionally also include an interface configured to receive a connector of a cable or wired connection for connecting a module, a monitor, other external unit or the like.

The monitor mount160can optionally also include one or more recesses for facilitating removal of the first monitor120and/or the second monitor140.

In some variations, the one or more processors162and the memory164are omitted such that the monitor mount160provides only physical support and optionally a power source.

The monitor mount160has a shape and size which allows the monitor mount160to detachably secure both of the first monitor120and the second monitor140such that the respective monitors120and140can be removed by the user when desired.

The monitor mount160can include a first coupling170to allow the first monitor120and/or second monitor140to be secured to the monitor mount160. The monitor mount160is able to secure each of the first monitor120and the second monitor140individually or both of the first monitor120and the second monitor140concurrently. In other words, the first coupling170is configured to accept either the first monitor120or the second monitor140such that the monitor mount160is configured to mount the first monitor120alone, the second monitor140alone, or a combination of the first monitor120and the second monitor140. The first coupling170can include any mechanical attachment means such as a ledge, a rail, a rib, an abutment, a cleat, and the like, or any combination thereof.

The first coupling170can additionally or alternatively include different securing mechanisms including magnetic and/or electromagnetic locking mechanisms which cause the first monitor120to selectively be secured to the monitor mount160. In some cases, the first monitor120can slide into and out of the first coupling170from one or more lateral directions (i.e., from one or more sides of the monitor mount160) while in other variations, the first monitor120can be mounted to and removed from the front face of the monitor mount160. In some implementations, the first monitor120can both slide into and out of the first coupling170from one or more lateral directions and be mounted to and removed from the front face of the monitor mount160.

The positioning of the first monitor120when secured to the monitor mount160can be such that the communications interface128on the first monitor120aligns with the communications interface166of the monitor mount160to allow, for example, a direct connection (e.g., electrical connection). In other variations, the communications interface128of the first monitor120exchanges data with the communications interface166of the monitor mount160wirelessly (via, for example, optical communication by way of respective optical windows on the first monitor120and the monitor mount160). For example, both communication interfaces128and166may include bi-directional phototransceivers that are configured for bi-directional communication. The communications interface128of the first monitor120may be located on a back facing portion of the first monitor120, whereas the communications interface166may be located on a front facing portion of the monitor mount160so that the back facing portion and the front facing portion face each other when the first monitor120is mounted to the monitor mount160.

The positioning of the first monitor120when secured to the monitor mount160can also align the power source/conduit132of the first monitor120to be coupled to the power source/conduit168of the monitor mount160which causes the monitor mount160to power the first monitor120.

The monitor mount160can include a support portion180to allow the second monitor140to be secured to the monitor mount160. The support portion180may be positioned at a top of the monitor mount160or a bottom of the monitor mount160. The support portion180can include any mechanical attachment means such as a ledge, a rail, a rib, an abutment, a cleat, and the like, or any combination thereof. The positioning of the second monitor140when secured to the monitor mount160can be such that the communications interface148on the second monitor140aligns with the communications interface166of the monitor mount160to allow, for example, a direct connection (e.g., electrical connection). In other variations, the communications interface148of the second monitor140exchanges data with the communications interface166of the monitor mount160wirelessly (via, for example, optical communication by way of respective optical windows on the second monitor140and the monitor mount160). For example, both communication interfaces128and166may include bi-directional phototransceivers that are configured for bi-directional communication. These connections (electrical, optical, wireless, etc.) can be used to sense position (docking, undocking) as well as the type of monitor mount160out of a plurality of types of mounts. The communications interface148of the second monitor140may be located on a back portion of the second monitor140. The communications interface148of the second monitor140may be located on a back facing portion of the second monitor140, whereas the communications interface166may be located on a front facing portion of the monitor mount160so that the back facing portion and the front facing portion face each other when the second monitor140is mounted to the monitor mount160.

The support portion180can enable front-to-back docking of the second monitor140to the monitor mount160by providing a shelf or similar feature extending outwardly. This feature of the support portion180can support and/or disperse the weight of the second monitor140during positioning of the second monitor140. For example, a user attempting to position the second monitor140onto the monitor mount160can rest the second monitor140on the support portion180during the positioning while attaching the back portion of the second monitor140to the first coupling170. The support portion180can support a bottom face of the second monitor140.

Alternatively, or additionally, the support portion180can enable hanging or suspension of a handle of the second monitor140from the monitor mount160by providing any mechanical attachment means such as a ledge, a rail, a rib, an abutment, a cleat, and the like, or any combination thereof extending laterally from the top portion of mount160. This feature of the support portion180can support and/or disperse the weight of the second monitor140during positioning of the second monitor140. For example, a user attempting to position the second monitor140to the monitor mount160can hang or suspend the handle of the second monitor140from the support portion180during the positioning while attaching the back portion of the second monitor140to the first coupling170.

The positioning of the second monitor140when secured to the monitor mount160can also align the power source/conduit150of the second monitor140to be coupled to the power source/conduit168of the monitor mount160which causes the monitor mount160to power the second monitor140or vice-versa. In some variations, the positioning of the second monitor140when secured to the monitor mount160and/or when the first monitor120is also secured to the monitor mount160can also align the power source/conduit150of the second monitor140to be coupled to the power source/conduit132of the first monitor120(which in turn is connected to the power source/conduit168of the monitor mount160) which causes the first monitor120to power the second monitor140.

The modular mounting of the three devices120,140, and160will now be described in greater detail. The modular mounting may allow the first monitor120to dock into the monitor mount160from the mount's front surface, allow the first monitor120to dock into the monitor mount160by sliding the first monitor120in from the left and/or the right lateral side of the monitor mount160, allow the combination of the first monitor120and the second monitor140to dock to the monitor mount160, allow the first monitor120to slide out of the combination of the monitor mount160and the second monitor140while the monitor mount160and the second monitor140remain mechanically coupled to one another, allow the second monitor140to be mounted to the monitor mount160in the absence of the first monitor120, and any combination thereof.

Referring now toFIG.2andFIG.3, a second monitor200is illustrated and represents one example implementation. In a particular aspect, the second monitor200can be the second monitor140described above in conjunction with the modular system. As shown, the second monitor200may include a housing202having a front204(illustrated inFIG.2as the foreground) and a back206(not fully visible inFIG.2and largely at the rear of this perspective view). The front204of the housing202of the monitor200may include a user interface208incorporated therein. The user interface208may be a display, a touch display, or a combination thereof.

As depicted inFIG.3, the back206of the housing202of the monitor200may include a docking slot210that may extend into the back206of the housing202. Further, the docking slot210may extend at least partially along a length of the back206of the housing202.FIG.3further shows that the docking slot210may include an enclosed end212and an open end214. The docking slot210may also include a first side wall216that may extend from the open end214of the docking slot210to the enclosed end212of the docking slot210. Further, the docking slot210may include a second side wall218opposite the first side wall216. The second side wall218may extend from the open end214of the docking slot210to the enclosed end212of the docking slot210. The second side wall218may be substantially parallel to the first side wall216.

In a particular aspect, the enclosed end212of the docking slot210may include a docking connector220within a docking connector recess221formed in the enclosed end212of the docking slot210. The docking connector recess221may be sized and shaped to receive a docking connector plate of a first monitor, described in detail below. As depicted, the first side wall216may include a first elongated protrusion222, e.g., a rib, that may extend from the first side wall216into the docking slot210. The first elongated protrusion222may extend from the first side wall216in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first side wall216. As shown, a second elongated protrusion224, e.g., a rib, may extend from the second side wall218into the docking slot210. The second elongated protrusion224may extend from the second side wall218in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the second side wall218. In a particular aspect, the elongated protrusions222,224may have a rounded, or convex, cross section. Specifically, the elongated protrusions222,224may have a semi-cylindrical shape and each elongated protrusion222,224may have a semi-circular shape in a cross section taken along an axis perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of each elongated protrusion222,224.

In a particular aspect, the docking slot210may be sized and shaped to receive a smaller monitor, e.g., a first monitor, described in detail below. As such, when the smaller monitor is engaged with the second monitor200, the smaller monitor may be slid into the docking slot210between the first sidewall216and the second sidewall218from the open end214to the enclosed end212until a connector on the smaller monitor is engaged with the docking connector220formed in the enclosed end212of the docking slot210. As shown, the first side wall216may include a first auxiliary port226at an end of the first side wall216near the open end214of the docking slot210and the second side wall218may include a second auxiliary port228at an end of the second side wall218near the open end214of the docking slot210.

FIG.3also shows that the back206of the housing202of the second monitor200may be formed with a first latch mechanism230within the first sidewall216of the docking slot210. The back206of the housing202of the second monitor200may also be formed with a second latch mechanism232within the second sidewall218of the docking slot210. The first latch mechanism230and second latch mechanism232may be sized and shaped to receive and engage a pair of latches on a monitor mount, described below. The latch mechanisms230,232may be centered along a central vertical axis234of the housing202of the second monitor200.

Referring toFIG.2andFIG.3, the second monitor200may include a handle assembly240attached to the housing202of the second monitor200. The handle assembly240may include a first transverse member242that may have a first end244and a second end246. Moreover, the handle assembly240may include a first vertical mounting post248that may extend from the first transverse member242near the first end244of the first transverse member242. The first vertical mounting post248may extend from the first transverse member242in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first transverse member242. The handle assembly240may include a second vertical mounting post250that may extend from the first transverse member242of the handle assembly240near the second end246of the first transverse member242. The second vertical mounting post250may extend from the first transverse member242in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first transverse member242and substantially parallel to the first vertical mounting post248.

As depicted inFIG.3, the handle assembly240may further include a second transverse member252that may have a first end254and a second end256. Moreover, the handle assembly240may include a third vertical mounting post258that may extend from the second transverse member252near the first end254of the second transverse member252. The third vertical mounting post258may extend from the second transverse member252in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the second transverse member252. The handle assembly240may further include a fourth vertical mounting post260that may extend from the second transverse member252of the handle assembly240near the second end256of the second transverse member252. The fourth vertical mounting post260may extend from the second transverse member252in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the second transverse member252and substantially parallel to the third vertical mounting post258.

In a particular aspect, the first vertical mounting post248of the handle assembly240may be vertically aligned with the third vertical mounting post258of the handle assembly240. Also, the second vertical mounting post250of the handle assembly240may be vertically aligned with the fourth vertical mounting posts260. The first and third vertical mounting posts248,258may be spaced a first distance, D1, away from the central vertical axis234. The second and fourth vertical mounting posts250,260may be spaced a second distance, D2, away from the central vertical axis234. D1may be substantially equal to D2.

Referring again toFIG.2andFIG.3, the handle assembly240, may include a first handle270extending between the first transverse member242and the second transverse member252. The first handle270may include a first extension272that may have a first end274and a second extension276that may have a second end278(visible inFIG.3). The first handle270of the handle assembly240may include a first grip portion280extending between the first extension272and the second extension276. In a particular aspect, as illustrated, the first end274of the first handle270may be connected, or otherwise coupled, to the first end244of the first transverse member242. Moreover, the second end278of the first handle270may be connected, or otherwise coupled, to the first end254of the second transverse member252. As shown, the extensions272,276of the first handle270may extend in a direction generally outward and forward from the transverse members242,252. Further, the extensions272,276, and the first handle270, may extend from the transverse members242,252at and a first angle, A1, with respect to the transverse members242,252.

In a particular aspect, A1may greater than or equal to 95°. In another aspect, A1may be greater than or equal to 100°, such as greater than or equal to 105°, greater than or equal to 110°, greater than or equal to 115°, greater than or equal to 120°, or greater than or equal to 125°. In still another aspect, A1may be less than or equal to 150°, such as less than or equal to 145°, less than or equal to 140°, less than or equal to 135°, or less than or equal to 130°. In yet another aspect, A1may be within a range between, and including, the minimum and maximum values of A1described herein.

As further indicated inFIG.2, the handle assembly240is constructed so that the first grip portion280of the first handle270may be spaced a first handle distance, HD1, from the housing202of the second monitor200. It is to be appreciated that HD1may be measured from the inner edge of the first grip portion280of the first handle270and the outer edge of the housing202of the second monitor200. In one aspect, HD1may be greater than or equal to 2.50 centimeters (cm). Further, HD1may be greater than or equal to 2.75 cm, such as greater than or equal to 3.00 cm, greater than or equal to 3.25 cm, greater than or equal to 3.50 cm, greater than or equal to 3.75 cm, or greater than or equal to 4.00 cm. In another aspect, HD1may be less than or equal to 6.5 cm, such as less than or equal to 6.25 cm, less than or equal to 6.00 cm, less than or equal to 5.75 cm, less than or equal to 5.50 cm, less than or equal to 5.25 cm, less than or equal to 5.00 cm, less than or equal to 4.75 cm, less than or equal to 4.50 cm, or less than or equal to 4.25 cm. In still another aspect, HD1may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of HD1described herein.

The handle assembly240, may also include a second handle290extending between the first transverse member242and the second transverse member252. The second handle290may include a first extension292that may have a first end294and a second extension296that may have a second end298(visible inFIG.3). The second handle290of the handle assembly240may include a first grip portion300extending between the first extension292and the second extension296of the second handle290. In a particular aspect, as illustrated, the first end294of the second handle290may be connected, or otherwise coupled, to the second end246of the first transverse member242. Moreover, the second end298of the second handle290may be connected, or otherwise coupled, to the second end256of the second transverse member252. As shown, the extensions292,296of the second handle290may extend in a direction generally outward and forward from the transverse members242,252. Further, the extensions292,296, and the second handle290, may extend from the transverse members242,252at and a first angle, A2, with respect to the transverse members242,252.

In a particular aspect, A2may greater than or equal to 95°. In another aspect, A2may be greater than or equal to 100°, such as greater than or equal to 105°, greater than or equal to 110°, greater than or equal to 115°, greater than or equal to 120°, or greater than or equal to 125°. In still another aspect, A2may be less than or equal to 150°, such as less than or equal to 145°, less than or equal to 140°, less than or equal to 135°, or less than or equal to 130°. In yet another aspect, A2may be within a range between, and including, the minimum and maximum values of A2described herein. In another aspect, A2may be equal to A1.

As further indicated inFIG.2, the handle assembly240is constructed so that the second grip portion300of the second handle290may be spaced a second handle distance, HD2, from the housing202of the second monitor200. It is to be appreciated that HD2may be measured from the inner edge of the second grip portion300of the second handle290and the outer edge of the housing202of the second monitor200. In one aspect, HD2may be greater than or equal to 2.50 centimeters (cm). Further, HD2may be greater than or equal to 2.75 cm, such as greater than or equal to 3.00 cm, greater than or equal to 3.25 cm, greater than or equal to 3.50 cm, greater than or equal to 3.75 cm, or greater than or equal to 4.00 cm. In another aspect, HD2may be less than or equal to 6.5 cm, such as less than or equal to 6.25 cm, less than or equal to 6.00 cm, less than or equal to 5.75 cm, less than or equal to 5.50 cm, less than or equal to 5.25 cm, less than or equal to 5.00 cm, less than or equal to 4.75 cm, less than or equal to 4.50 cm, or less than or equal to 4.25 cm. In still another aspect, HD2may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of HD2described herein. In another aspect, HD2may be equal to HD1.

As further illustrated inFIG.2, the handles270,290, or the grips280,300thereof, may extend beyond the front of the housing202of the second monitor200. For example, the handles270,290, or the grips280,300thereof, may extend a handle distance, HD3, beyond the front of the housing202of the second monitor200. In a particular aspect, HD3may be greater than or equal to 0.50 cm. Further, HD3may be greater than or equal to 0.75 cm, such as greater than 1.00 cm, greater than 1.25 cm, or greater than 1.5 cm. In another aspect, HD3may be less than or equal to 2.50 cm, such as less than or equal to 2.25 cm, less than or equal to 2.00 cm, or less than or equal to 1.75 cm. In yet another aspect, HD3may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of HD3described herein.

It is to be understood that the second monitor200may be symmetrical about a central longitudinal, or horizontal, axis302. Moreover, the handle assembly240may be symmetrical about the central longitudinal axis302and about the central vertical axis234. Further, the first grip portion280of the handle assembly240may be substantially parallel to the second grip portion300of the handle assembly240.FIG.3shows that the second monitor200may have an overall width, W, that may be measured between the front of the handle assembly240and the back of the handle assembly240. In a particular aspect, W, may be greater than or equal to 7.00 cm. Further, W may be greater than or equal to 7.50 cm, such as greater than or equal to 8.00 cm, greater than or equal to 8.50 cm, or greater than 9.00 cm. In another aspect, W may be less than or equal to 12.00 cm, such as less than or equal to 11.50 cm, less than or equal to 11.00 cm, less than or equal to 10.50 cm, less than or equal to 10.00 cm, or less than or equal to 9.50 cm. In still another aspect, W may be within a range between, and including, any of the minimum and maximum values of W.

The handle assembly240may provide a base on which the second monitor200may rest on without tipping over. In other words, the handle assembly240may support the second monitor200in an upright position, either alone or when a first monitor, described below, is engaged therewith, e.g., with the docking slot210. The grip portions280,300of each respective handle270,290may be spaced from the housing202of the second monitor200in order to allow a user to wrap their fingers around the grip portion. This allows the user to easily grasp the second monitor200and rotate the second monitor200, and a first monitor engaged therewith, as described below, without risking dropping the second monitor200or the assembly of the second monitor200and the first monitor. Further, the handles270,290are swept forward to prevent the handles270,290from interfering with, kinking, or otherwise fouling, a plurality of physiologic sensor cables that may be connected to a first monitor that is engaged with the second monitor200. The handles270,290may also help guide the cables to prevent issues therewith.

Referring now toFIG.4, an alternative embodiment of a second monitor400is illustrated. As shown, the second monitor400may include a housing402. A user interface404may be incorporated into, or otherwise disposed on, a front406of the housing402. The user interface404may be a display, such as a touch screen display.

As illustrated, the second monitor400may include a handle assembly408. The handle assembly408may be attached to the housing402of the second monitor400as described below. Specifically, the handle assembly408may include a first transverse member410that may have a first end412and a second end414. The handle assembly408may also include a second transverse member420that may have a first end422and a second end424.

The handle assembly408may also include a first handle430extending between the first transverse member410and the second transverse member420. The first handle430may include a first extension432that may have a first end434and a second extension436that may have a second end438. The first handle430of the handle assembly408may include a first grip portion440extending between the first extension432and the second extension436.

In a particular aspect, as illustrated, the first end434of the first handle430may be connected, or otherwise coupled, to the first end412of the first transverse member410. Moreover, the second end438of the first handle430may be connected, or otherwise coupled, to the first end422of the second transverse member420. As shown, the extensions432,436of the first handle430may extend in a direction generally outward and forward from the transverse members410,420. Further, the extensions432,436, and the first handle430, may extend from the transverse members410,412at and an angle with respect to the transverse members410,412. That angle may be the same as A1, described above.

As shown inFIG.4, a first horizontal mounting post442may extend from the first grip portion440of the first handle430near the first extension432. The first horizontal mounting post442may be substantially parallel to the first extension432. Further, the first horizontal mounting post442may extend from the first grip portion440and connect to the housing402of the monitor400at an angle. That angle may be the same as A1, described above. A second horizontal mounting post444may extend from the first grip portion440of the first handle430near the second extension436. The second horizontal mounting post444may be substantially parallel to the second extension436and the first horizontal mounting post442. Moreover, the second horizontal mounting post444may extend from the first grip portion440and connect to the housing402of the monitor400at an angle. That angle may be the same as A1, described above.

FIG.4shows that the handle assembly408may also include a second handle450extending between the first transverse member410and the second transverse member420. The second handle450may include a first extension452that may have a first end454and a second extension456that may have a second end458. The second handle450of the handle assembly408may include a second grip portion460extending between the first extension452and the second extension456.

In a particular aspect, as illustrated, the first end454of the second handle450may be connected, or otherwise coupled, to the second end414of the first transverse member410. Moreover, the second end458of the second handle450may be connected, or otherwise coupled, to the second end424of the second transverse member420. As shown, the extensions452,456of the second handle450may extend in a direction generally outward and forward from the transverse members410,420. Further, the extensions452,456, and the second handle450, may extend from the transverse members410,412at and an angle with respect to the transverse members410,412. That angle may be the same as A2, described above.

As shown inFIG.4, a third horizontal mounting post462may extend from the second grip portion460of the second handle450near the first extension452. The third horizontal mounting post462may be substantially parallel to the first extension452. Further, the first horizontal mounting post462may extend from the second grip portion460and connect to the housing402of the monitor400at an angle. That angle may be the same as A2, described above. A fourth horizontal mounting post464may extend from the second grip portion460of the second handle450near the second extension456. The fourth horizontal mounting post464may be substantially parallel to the second extension456and the third horizontal mounting post462. Moreover, the fourth horizontal mounting post464may extend from the first grip portion460and connect to the housing402of the monitor400at an angle. That angle may be the same as A2, described above.

In a particular aspect, the first horizontal mounting post442of the handle assembly408may be horizontally aligned with the third horizontal mounting post462of the handle assembly408. Also, the second horizontal mounting post444of the handle assembly408may be horizontally aligned with the fourth horizontal mounting posts464. The first and third horizontal mounting posts442,462may be spaced a first distance, D1, away from a central horizontal axis466. The second and fourth horizontal mounting posts462,464may be spaced a second distance, D2, away from the central horizontal axis234. D1may be substantially equal to D2. Further, the handle assembly408may be substantially symmetrical about the central horizontal axis466. The handle assembly408may also be substantially symmetrical about a central vertical axis468. Also, the first grip portion440of the handle assembly408may be substantially parallel to the second grip portion460of the handle assembly408.

As further indicated inFIG.4, the handle assemble430may be constructed so that the first grip portion440of the first handle430may be spaced a handle distance from the housing402of the second monitor400. It is to be appreciated that the handle distance may be measured from the inner edge of the first grip portion440of the first handle430and the outer edge of the housing402of the second monitor400. The handle distance may be the same as HD1, described above. The second grip portion460of the second handle450may be spaced a handle distance from the housing402of the second monitor400. It is to be appreciated that the handle distance may be measured from the inner edge of the first grip portion440of the first handle430and the outer edge of the housing402of the second monitor400. The handle distance may be the same as HD2, described above.

As further illustrated inFIG.4, the handles430,450, or the grips440,460thereof, may extend beyond the front of the housing402of the second monitor400. For example, the handles430,450, or the grip portions440,460thereof, may extend a handle distance beyond the front of the housing402of the second monitor400. In a particular aspect, the handle distance may be equal to HD3, described above.

FIG.5depicts another alternative embodiment of a second monitor500. As shown, the second monitor500may include a housing502. A user interface504may be incorporated into, or otherwise disposed on, a front506of the housing502. The user interface504may be a display, such as a touch screen display. Further, the housing502may include, or define, a first horizontal face508adjacent to the user interface504and a second horizontal face510adjacent to the user interface504opposite

As illustrated, the second monitor500may include a first handle520extending from the first horizontal face508of the housing502of the second monitor500. The first handle520may include a first grip portion522that may include a first end524and a second end526. As shown, the ends524,526of the first grip portion522may be connected to the housing502. Further, the first grip portion522may be substantially parallel to the first horizontal face508of the housing502. The ends524,526may be substantially perpendicular to the first grip portion522and substantially parallel to each other. The first grip portion522of the first handle520may be spaced a handle distance from the first horizontal face508of the housing502of the monitor500. The handle distance may be measured between an inner edge of the first grip portion522and the first horizontal face508of the housing502of the monitor500and the handle distance may be the same as HD1, described above.

The second monitor500may also include a second handle530extending from the second horizontal face510of the housing502of the second monitor500. The second handle530may include a second grip portion532that may include a first end534and a second end536. As shown, the ends534,536of the second grip portion532may be connected to the housing502. Further, the second grip portion532may be substantially parallel to the second horizontal face510of the housing502. The ends534,536may be substantially perpendicular to the second grip portion532and substantially parallel to each other. The second grip portion532of the second handle530may be spaced a handle distance from the second horizontal face510of the housing502of the monitor500. The handle distance may be measured between an inner edge of the second grip portion532and the second horizontal face510of the housing502of the monitor500and the handle distance may be the same as HD2, described above.

Referring now toFIG.6andFIG.7, a first monitor600is depicted as one example. In a particular embodiment, the first monitor600may be the first monitor120described above in conjunction with the system illustrated inFIG.1.FIG.6andFIG.7show that the first monitor600may include a housing602that may have a rear housing portion604and a front housing portion606. The first monitor600may include an engagement groove608that may circumscribe the housing602between the rear housing portion604and the front housing portion606. In a particular aspect, the engagement groove608may be sized and shaped to receive the elongated protrusions222,224(FIG.3) formed on the side walls216,218(FIG.3) of the docking slot210(FIG.3) of the second monitor200(FIG.3).

FIG.6shows that the front portion606of the housing602of the first monitor600may include a front face610and a user interface612may be incorporated into, or disposed in, the front face610of the front portion606of the housing602. The user interface612may be a display, a touch display, or a combination thereof.

As illustrated inFIG.6andFIG.7, the rear housing portion604of the first monitor600may include a back plate620. An outer wall622may extend from the back plate620. In particular, the outer wall622may extend from an outer perimeter of the back plate620in a direction that may be forward relative to the back plate620and substantially perpendicular to the back plate620. The outer wall622of the rear housing portion604may include a lower wall portion624that may extend in a direction that may be substantially perpendicular to the back plate620. The outer wall622of the rear housing portion604may also include an upper wall portion626opposite the lower wall portion624and spaced therefrom. The upper wall portion626of the outer wall622of the rear housing portion604may extend in a direction away from the back plate620that may be substantially perpendicular to the back plate620and substantially parallel to the lower wall portion624.

As shown inFIG.6andFIG.7, the outer wall622of the rear housing portion604may also include a left wall portion628that may extend between the lower wall portion624and the upper wall portion626of the outer wall622of the rear housing portion604. The left wall portion628may extend from the back plate620in a direction that may be substantially perpendicular to the back plate620. The left wall portion628may also be substantially perpendicular to the lower wall portion624and the upper wall portion626. The outer wall622of the rear housing portion604may also include a right wall portion630that may extend between the lower wall portion624and the upper wall portion626of the outer wall622of the rear housing portion604opposite and spaced from the left wall portion628. The right wall portion630may extend from the back plate620in a direction that may be substantially perpendicular to the back plate620. The right wall portion630may also be substantially perpendicular to the lower wall portion624and the upper wall portion626.

FIG.7further shows that the back plate620of the rear housing portion604may be formed with a mounting alignment plate632. The mounting alignment plate632may include a plurality of ports634within the mounting alignment plate632. As shown inFIG.7, the mounting alignment plate632and the ports634formed therein are symmetrical about a horizontal axis636passing through a center of the mounting alignment plate632. Further, the mounting alignment plate632and the port634formed therein are symmetrical about a vertical axis638passing through a center of the mounting alignment plate632.

The left wall portion628of the outer wall622of the rear housing portion602may include a plurality of connector ports640and one or more patient monitoring ports642. One or more cables may be connected to the first monitor600via the ports640,642to allow the monitor600to receive power and to receive, consolidate, and display patient information and data from one or more physiological sensors. The patient information, or physiological information received from the physiological sensors, may include electrocardiograph (ECG) data, respiratory rate, noninvasive blood pressure (NIBP), invasive blood pressure (IBP) (systolic, diastolic, and mean), body temperature, pulse oximetry (SpO2), mixed venous oxygenation (SvO2), cardiac output, end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2), intracranial pressure, airway gas concentrations, or a combination thereof.

As shown inFIG.6, the right wall portion630of the outer wall622of the rear housing portion604may be formed with a docking connector plate644. A docking connector646may be formed within the docking connector plate644. As described in greater detail below, the docking connector plate644may be sized and shaped to fit into the docking connector recess221(FIG.2) formed in the second monitor200(FIG.2).FIG.6andFIG.7further show that the upper wall portion626of the outer wall622of the rear housing portion604of the housing602may be formed with an upper interlocking recess650. The lower wall portion624may also include a similarly sized and shaped lower interlocking recess (not shown). As described in greater detail below, the interlocking recesses650of the rear housing portion604may receive and engage corresponding features formed on a monitor mount, described below.

As further illustrated inFIG.6andFIG.7, the first monitor600may also include a handle651that may extend from the right wall portion630of the outer wall622of the rear housing604at an angle, A3, with respect to the face of the right wall portion630. In a particular aspect, A3may greater than or equal to 95°. In another aspect, A3may be greater than or equal to 100°, such as greater than or equal to 105°, greater than or equal to 110°, greater than or equal to 115°, greater than or equal to 120°, or greater than or equal to 125°. In still another aspect, A3may be less than or equal to 150°, such as less than or equal to 145°, less than or equal to 140°, less than or equal to 135°, or less than or equal to 130°. In yet another aspect, A3may be within a range between, and including, the minimum and maximum values of A3described herein.

Referring now toFIG.8andFIG.9, a patient monitoring assembly800is shown. The patient monitoring assembly800may include the first monitor600, the second monitor200, and a monitor mount802.

As illustrated inFIG.8andFIG.9, the monitor mount802may include a housing804. The housing804of the monitor mount802may have an upper latch806and a lower latch808that is space a distance from the upper latch mechanism806. Further, the upper latch806may be parallel to the lower latch808. Referring toFIGS.11A,11B, the monitor mount802may include a mounting alignment recess810. The mounting alignment recess810may include a plurality of connectors812within the mounting alignment recess810. As shown inFIGS.11A,11B, the mounting alignment recess810and the connectors812within the mounting alignment recess810are symmetrical about a horizontal axis814passing through a center of the mounting alignment recess802. Further, the mounting alignment recess810and the connectors812within the mounting alignment recess810are symmetrical about a vertical axis816passing through a center of the mounting alignment recess810.

In another aspect, the upper latch806and the lower latch808may be symmetrical about the horizontal axis814passing through the center of the mounting alignment recess802. Additionally, the upper latch806and the lower latch808may be symmetrical about the vertical axis816passing through the center of the mounting alignment recess802. In a particular aspect, the mounting alignment recess802may be sized and shaped to receive the mounting alignment plate632(FIG.7) formed on the back plate620(FIG.7) of the rear portion604(FIG.7) of the housing602(FIG.7) of the first monitor600(FIG.7). In a particular aspect, the upper latch806and the lower latch808may be sized and shaped to fit into the first latch mechanism230(FIG.3) within the first sidewall216(FIG.3) of the docking slot210(FIG.3) of the second monitor200and the second latch mechanism232(FIG.3) within the second sidewall218(FIG.3) of the docking slot210(FIG.3) of the second monitor200(FIG.3).

Referring now toFIG.10A,FIGS.10B, and10C, a dual monitor assembly1000is shown and generally designated1000. The dual monitor assembly1000may be formed by sliding the first monitor600into the docking slot210on the second monitor200. As illustrated inFIG.10A, when sliding the first monitor600into the docking slot210, the first monitor600may enter the docking slot210via the open end214of the docking slot210. The engagement groove608of the first monitor600may slide over and engage the elongated protrusions222,224that may extend from, and at least partially along, the side walls216,218of the docking slot210.

As shown inFIG.10B, the first monitor600may slide toward the closed end212of the docking slot210until the docking connector plate644of the first monitor600slides into the docking connector recess221within the closed end212of the docking slot210of the second monitor200. The first monitor600may be fully engaged with the docking slot210of the second monitor20, as depicted inFIG.100, when the docking connector646within the docking connector plate644of the first monitor600is fully engaged with the docking connector220within the docking connector recess221within the closed end212of the docking slot210of the second monitor200. In this configuration, the first monitor600may transmit all off the data that it receives from one or more physiologic sensors directly to the second monitor200via the docking connectors220,646.

FIG.11A through11Eillustrate a patient monitoring system that includes the dual monitor assembly1000and the monitor mount802. As shown, inFIG.11AandFIG.11Bthe dual monitor assembly1000may be formed as described above and then, the dual monitor assembly1000may be engaged with the monitor mount802by moving the dual monitor assembly1000into the monitor mount802so that the latches806,808on the monitor mount802slide into and engage the latch mechanisms230,232on the second monitor200.

As shown inFIG.11A, the dual monitor assembly1000may be oriented so that the upper latch806on the monitor mount802fits into and engages the first latch mechanism230on the second monitor200and the lower latch806on the monitor mount802fits into and engages the second latch mechanism232on the second monitor200. Further, as the dual monitor assembly1000is engaged with the monitor mount802, the mounting alignment plate632of the first monitor600may slide into and engage the mounting alignment recess810of the monitor mount802and the connectors812within the mounting alignment recess810of the monitor mount802may engage the ports634within the mounting alignment plate632of the first monitor600. In this orientation, as depicted inFIG.11B, a plurality of cables1102engaged with, and extending from, the first monitor600within the dual monitor assembly1000may protrude from a right side of the patient monitoring system.

If a user determines that it would be more appropriate for the cables1102to protrude from the left side of the patient monitoring system, the user may disengage the dual monitor assembly1000from the monitor mount802by grasping the handles270,290on the second monitor200and pulling the dual monitor assembly1000away from, and out of, the monitor mount802, e.g., toward the user. Thereafter, the user may rotate the dual monitor assembly1000counter-clockwise 180° so that the cables1102are hanging down the left side of the dual monitor assembly1000, as shown inFIG.11C.

Then, the user may re-engage the dual monitor assembly1000with the monitor mount802by moving the dual monitor assembly1000into the monitor mount802so that the latches806,808on the monitor mount802slide into and engage the latch mechanisms230,232on the second monitor200. In this orientation, due to the symmetry of the latches806,808and the latch mechanism, the dual monitor assembly1000may be oriented so that the upper latch806on the monitor mount802fits into and engages the second latch mechanism232on the second monitor200and the lower latch806on the monitor mount802fits into and engages the first latch mechanism230on the second monitor200.

Further, due to the symmetry of the mounting alignment plate632of the first monitor600, the symmetry of the ports634within the mounting alignment plate632of the first monitor600, the symmetry of the mounting alignment recess810, and the symmetry of the connectors812within the mounting alignment recess810, the dual monitor assembly1000may be engaged with the monitor mount802, so that the mounting alignment plate632of the first monitor600slides into and engages the mounting alignment recess810of the monitor mount802—even though the dual monitor assembly1000has been rotated 180° from the orientation illustrated inFIG.11AandFIG.11B. In this orientation, the connectors812within the mounting alignment recess810of the monitor mount802may engage the ports634within the mounting alignment plate632of the first monitor600. Moreover, in this orientation, as depicted inFIG.11E, the plurality of cables1102engaged with, and extending from, the first monitor600within the dual monitor assembly1000may protrude from a left side of the patient monitoring system1100. It can be appreciated that the dual monitor assembly1000may be moved from the first orientation to the second orientation without removing any of the cables1102from the first monitor600within the dual monitor assembly1000. Further, it can be appreciated that the second monitor200may include the proper switching capability to orient the information presented at the user interface208so that it is readable by a user in either orientation relative to the monitor mount802. In other words, the display image may flip as the dual monitor assembly1000is moved between the first orientation and the second orientation. This functionality can be provided using several existing solutions, such as an accelerometer and display software that changes the orientation of the screen based on its orientation.

Although various embodiments have been described above, these are to be regarded as merely examples. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the examples described herein can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For example, any feature of any particular portion, embodiment or modification of the monitors120,140,200,400,500,600may be included or omitted from any of the other portions, embodiments or modifications of the monitors120,140,200,400,500,600. Any feature of any particular portion, embodiment or modification of the monitor mount160may be included or omitted from any of the other portions, embodiments or modifications of the monitor mount160.

In a particular aspect, when the dual monitor assembly1000is engaged with the monitor mount802, as illustrated inFIG.11BorFIG.11E, a portion of each latch806,808may fit into and engage the interlocking recesses650formed on the rear portion604of the housing602of the first monitor600. This engagement may prevent the first monitor600from being withdrawn, or disengaged, from the docking slot210of the second monitor200. Further, in the configurations shown inFIG.11BorFIG.11E, power, data, or a combination thereof may be transmitted to the dual monitor assembly1000via the connectors812and the ports634. The power and data may be supplied to the first monitor200and the second monitor600as necessary.

Further, it is noted that the present disclosure may be implemented as any combination of a system, an integrated circuit, and a computer program on a non-transitory computer readable recording medium. The processor and any other parts of the computing system may be implemented as Integrated Circuits (IC), Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC), or Large Scale Integrated circuits (LSI), system LSI, super LSI, or ultra LSI components which perform a part or all of the functions of the computing system.

Each of the parts of the present disclosure can be implemented using many single-function components, or can be one component integrated using the technologies described above. The circuits may also be implemented as a specifically programmed general purpose processor, CPU, a specialized microprocessor such as Digital Signal Processor that can be directed by program instructions on a memory, a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) that can be programmed after manufacturing, or a reconfigurable processor. Some or all of the functions may be implemented by such a processor while some or all of the functions may be implemented by circuitry in any of the forms discussed above.

The present disclosure may be implemented as a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program embodying methods/algorithms for instructing the processor to perform the methods/algorithms. The non-transitory computer-readable recording medium can be, for example, a CD-ROM, DVD, Blu-ray disc, or an electronic memory device.

Each of the elements of the present disclosure may be configured by implementing dedicated hardware or a software program on a memory controlling a processor to perform the functions of any of the components or combinations thereof. Any of the components may be implemented as a CPU or other processor reading and executing a software program from a recording medium such as a hard disk or a semiconductor memory.

It is also contemplated that the implementation of the components of the present disclosure can be done with any newly arising technology that may replace any of the above implementation technologies.