Patent Description:
Medical device suspension systems or carry systems are used in health treatment settings such as hospital examination rooms, clinics, surgery rooms and emergency rooms. These systems may suspend or support any variety of medical devices or components including surgical lights, supply consoles, patient monitors, camera detector heads, medical instruments, ventilator systems, suction devices, among others. The systems typically include a shaft or support spindle that is suspended from the ceiling or mounted to a wall or stand, and one or more generally horizontal extension arms mounted for rotational movement about the shaft. Each extension arm typically has a hub at its proximal end mounted to the shaft for pivotable movement about the shaft, and a support at its distal end for supporting a medical device. The extension arm can be rotatably adjusted about the shaft to a desired angular position to provide appropriate access to medical devices and components associated with the arm.

It is desirable to limit the rotation of the extension arm about the shaft for example to prevent collision of medical devices at the distal ends of the arms, or to prevent undue strain on electrical or communication lines passing through the shaft and the extension arm. In most current support systems, the extension arm is equipped with a fixed feature in the hub that contacts a fixed feature on the shaft that prevents further rotation.

For rotational control mechanisms in some medical device suspension systems or carry systems, there remain various shortcomings, drawbacks, and disadvantages relative to certain applications. For example, in some systems the rotational control mechanism limits rotation of the extension arm to below <NUM>° (<NUM>-degrees), which may limit options for some installations. Other rotational control mechanisms require multiple stacked components, which increase the volumetric footprint of the mechanisms and complicates their integration into the hub of the extension arm.

Accordingly, there remains a need for further contributions in this area of technology.

The application relates to a rotational control mechanism for a medical device support system, in which the rotational control mechanism enables at least <NUM>° (<NUM>-degrees) rotation of the extension arm about the shaft, and also embodies fewer components and a smaller volumetric footprint than heretofore attained, thus simplifying and adding efficiency to the factory assembly and field service of the medical device support system.

According to one aspect of the invention, a medical device support system includes a shaft, an extension arm, and at least one floating stop. The extension arm may have a support for a medical device. A hub at a proximal end of the extension arm may be mounted to the shaft for pivotable movement of the extension arm and the hub about a rotation axis of the shaft. The hub may have an elongated cavity including first and second contact faces. The at least one floating stop may be movably disposed in the elongated cavity of the hub between the first and second contact faces. The hub may be pivotably mounted for a range of at least <NUM>-degrees rotation about the rotation axis, wherein the at least <NUM>-degrees rotation range is based on a compound of a first rotation range and a second rotation range, wherein the first rotation range is defined by a first movable amount of the at least one floating stop between first and second stop surfaces fixed relative to the shaft, and wherein the second rotation range is defined by a second movable amount of the at least one floating stop between the first and second contact faces of the hub.

Embodiments of the invention may include one or more of the following additional features separately or in any combination.

The at least one floating stop interfacing with one of the first or second stop surfaces of the shaft and one of the first or second contact faces of the hub may restrict rotation of the hub about the rotation axis beyond the at least <NUM>-degrees rotation range.

The hub may be pivotably mounted for the at least <NUM>-degrees rotation from a first stop position to a second stop position and vice versa, wherein at the first stop position, the at least one floating stop interfaces with one of the first or second stop surfaces fixed relative to the shaft and one of the first or second contact faces of the hub to limit further counterclockwise rotation of the hub about the rotation axis, and at the second stop position, the at least one floating stop interfaces with an opposite one of the first or second stop surfaces and an opposite one of the first and second contact faces of the hub to limit further clockwise rotation of the hub about the rotation axis.

The at least one floating stop may be sandwiched between the first stop surface and the first contact face at the first stop position, and the at least one floating stop may be sandwiched between the second stop surface and the second contact face at the second stop position.

The first movable amount of the at least one floating stop may be determined by an amount of movement of the at least one floating stop rotating at least partially about the rotation axis from a first stop position, in which the at least one floating stop engages both the first stop surface and the first contact face, to an intermediate position, in which the at least one floating stop engages the second stop surface; and the second movable amount of the at least one floating stop may be determined by an amount of movement of the at least one floating stop rotating at least partially about the rotation axis from the intermediate position to a second stop position, in which the at least one floating stop engages both the second stop surface and the second contact face.

The second stop surface may be configured to move the at least one floating stop within the cavity from the intermediate position to the second stop position.

The first and second stop surfaces may be formed by opposite sides of at least one fixed stop radially outwardly protruding from an outer surface of the shaft, the at least one fixed stop being non-rotatable about the rotation axis.

The at least one floating stop may include a spherical ball.

The elongated cavity may be formed by radially inwardly projecting surfaces of the hub that at least partially enclose the at least one floating stop.

The radially inwardly projecting surfaces of the hub may form a radially inwardly projecting lug, and the first and second contact faces of the hub may form opposite end portion surfaces of the lug.

The first and second stop surfaces may radially overlap with the first and second contact faces of the hub, and radially overlap with the at least one floating stop; and the first and second contact faces may include respective openings for receiving the first and/or second stop surfaces, thereby enabling the first or second stop surface to move the at least one floating stop within the elongated cavity between the first and second contact faces.

The first and second stop surfaces may radially overlap with opposite first and second engagement surfaces of the at least one floating stop; and the first and second stop surfaces and the opposite first and second engagement surfaces of the at least one floating stop may lie in the same plane that is perpendicular to the rotation axis.

The first movable amount may be less than <NUM>-degrees, and the second movable amount may be in a range from <NUM>-degree to less than <NUM>-degrees.

The at least <NUM>-degrees rotation range may be less than <NUM>-degrees.

The first and second stop surfaces may be formed by opposite sides of a fixed stop, and the shaft may include a plurality of receivers evenly spaced about the rotation axis of the shaft for receiving the fixed stop.

The shaft may have an axial hollow and a radial aperture and the cavity of the hub may be positioned to allow passage of electrical and communication lines through the axial hollow, through the radial aperture, and into a longitudinally extending cavity in the extension arm.

The hub of the extension arm may include upper and lower pivot bearings configured to pivotably engage the hub with the shaft, and a radial opening positioned axially between the upper and lower pivot bearings; and the cavity of the hub may be positioned to allow passage of the electrical and communication lines between the upper and lower pivot bearings, through the radial opening of the hub, and into the longitudinally extending cavity in the extension arm.

According to another aspect of the invention, a medical device support system includes a shaft, an extension arm, and at least one floating stop. The extension arm may have a support for a medical device. A hub at a proximal end of the extension arm may be mounted to the shaft for pivotable movement of the extension arm and the hub about a rotation axis of the shaft. The hub may include an elongated cavity having first and second contact faces. The at least one floating stop may be disposed in the cavity and be movable between the first and second contact faces. First and second stop surfaces may be fixed relative to the shaft and radially extend to overlap with a rotation path of the at least one floating stop. The hub may be pivotably mounted for a range of at least <NUM>-degrees rotation about the rotation axis from a first stop position to a second stop position and vice versa, wherein at the first stop position, the first stop surface engages a first engagement surface of the at least one floating stop and an opposite second engagement surface of the at least one floating stop engages the first contact face of the cavity, thereby limiting further counterclockwise rotation of the hub about the rotation axis, and wherein at the second stop position, the second stop surface engages the second engagement surface of the at least one floating stop and the opposite first engagement surface of the at least one floating stop engages the second contact face of the cavity, thereby limiting further clockwise rotation of the hub about the rotation axis.

The at least one floating stop may be configured to move with the hub about the rotation axis from the first stop position to an intermediate position between the first and second stop positions, wherein at the intermediate position the at least one floating stop engages with the second stop surface; and wherein the second stop surface is configured to move the at least one floating stop within the elongated cavity from the intermediate position to the second stop position.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of rotating an extension arm about a shaft of a medical device support system, the extension arm having a support for a medical device and a hub at its proximal end mounted to the shaft for pivotable movement about a rotation axis of the shaft, the method including rotating the hub over a range of at least <NUM>-degrees about the rotation axis, wherein the at least <NUM>-degrees rotation range is based on a compound of movement over a first rotation range and movement over a second rotation range, wherein movement over the first rotation range includes moving at least one floating stop of the hub between first and second stop surfaces fixed relative to the shaft, and wherein movement over the second rotation range includes moving the at least one floating stop with the first or second stop surface between first and second contact faces of an elongated cavity of the hub.

The following description and the annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative embodiments of the invention. Other objects, advantages and novel features according to aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

While the present invention can take many different forms, for the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same.

Referring initially to <FIG> and <FIG>, an exemplary medical device support system <NUM> is shown. The medical device support system <NUM> generally includes a shaft <NUM>, at least one extension arm <NUM> having a support <NUM> for a medical device <NUM>, and a hub <NUM> at a proximal end of the extension arm <NUM> and mounted to the shaft <NUM> for pivotable movement about a rotation axis A-A of the shaft <NUM>. The medical device support system <NUM> also includes an exemplary rotational control mechanism <NUM> integrated into the hub <NUM> and which cooperates with the shaft <NUM> to control an amount of rotation of the extension arm <NUM> about the shaft <NUM>.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the exemplary rotational control mechanism <NUM> enables a range of at least <NUM>° (<NUM>-degrees) rotation of the extension arm <NUM> about the rotation axis A-A of the shaft. More specifically, according to at least one aspect of the invention which is described in further detail below, the exemplary rotational control mechanism <NUM> described herein includes at least one floating stop movably disposed in an elongated cavity of the hub, and which interacts with first and second contact faces of the hub, and with first and second stop surfaces fixed relative to the shaft, for providing the range of at least <NUM>-degrees rotation of the extension arm <NUM> about a rotation axis A-A of the shaft <NUM>.

As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the medical device support system <NUM> may be a suspension type carrying support system for use in a hospital examination room, a clinic, a surgery room, an emergency room, among others. The shaft <NUM> extends along axis A-A, which also represents the rotation axis A-A of the shaft <NUM> about which the extension arm <NUM> pivots. The shaft <NUM> may be fixed to a ceiling support <NUM> to remain stationary relative to the ceiling. It will be appreciated, of course, that the medical device support system <NUM> may have any suitable suspension or carrying structure and that the shaft <NUM> may be attached to a ceiling as shown, or to a wall, floor, movable cart, or a combination of the foregoing.

In exemplary embodiments, the shaft <NUM> of the medical device support system <NUM> has a cylindrical shape in axial cross section and defines an axial hollow <NUM> therein, and extends vertically downward from the ceiling support <NUM>. A column section <NUM> surrounds an upper portion of the shaft <NUM>. The axial hollow <NUM> and the column section <NUM> house upper portions of accessory and service lines such as power cables for surgical lights and other power requirements, control wiring for control electronics, optical fibers for data communication, and/or tubing for irrigation, suction, etc. A plurality of extension arms <NUM>, such as three in the illustrative embodiment, are mounted for rotatable movement to the shaft <NUM> and extend laterally outward from the shaft <NUM>. In the <FIG> embodiment, the extension arms <NUM> extend horizontally, or perpendicularly, relative to the shaft <NUM>. An additional extension arm <NUM>, support arm <NUM>, and medical device <NUM> may be pivotably mounted to a separate central shaft <NUM> radially offset from the central shaft <NUM>.

As shown, the hub <NUM> is located at the proximal end of the extension arm <NUM> and aids in the pivotable movement of the extension arm <NUM> about the shaft <NUM>. The hub <NUM> may be unitary with the extension arm, or may attached to the proximal end of the extension arm <NUM> in any suitable manner. Each extension arm hub <NUM> may include upper and lower bearing mounts <NUM>, <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>, for example) that house respective upper and lower pivot bearings mounted to the shaft <NUM>. The bearing mounts <NUM>, <NUM> enable rotational movement of the extension arm <NUM> and hub <NUM>. Any suitable pivot bearings may be used to enable the relative rotational movement between the extension arm <NUM> and the shaft <NUM>, including for example ball bearings, sleeve bearings, bushings, rotary joints, swivel joints and/or the like.

A brake assembly <NUM> may be secured in the hub <NUM> for rotation therewith to selectively increase and decrease a frictional braking force to the shaft <NUM>. In the illustrative embodiment, the brake assembly <NUM> is positioned above the lower bearing mount <NUM>. Each hub <NUM> also may provide a radial opening <NUM>, which may be positioned axially between the upper and lower pivot bearings <NUM>, <NUM>, for routing accessory and service lines from the axial hollow <NUM> and/or the upper column section <NUM> to a longitudinally extending cavity <NUM> of the extension arm <NUM>, and/or vice versa. Each hub <NUM> is also provided with an access opening <NUM> to enable access to the shaft <NUM>, the rotational control mechanism <NUM>, the upper and lower pivot bearings <NUM>, <NUM>, the brake assembly <NUM>, accessory and service lines, and/or other components within the hub <NUM>. A suitable brake assembly <NUM> and access opening <NUM> for the illustrative embodiment are described in <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; and <CIT>, which are incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

Referring now particularly to <FIG>, the exemplary rotational control mechanism <NUM> will now be described in further detail. Generally, the rotational control mechanism <NUM> is made up of a combination of contact faces, or surfaces, including those from the hub <NUM> and the shaft <NUM>, which interact with at least one free floating member <NUM> to control the amount of rotation of the extension arm <NUM> about the rotation axis A-A of the shaft <NUM>. The rotational control mechanism <NUM> enables the range of at least <NUM>-degrees of rotation of the extension arm <NUM> about the rotation axis A-A of the shaft <NUM>. More specifically, according to an aspect, the exemplary rotational control mechanism <NUM> includes the at least one floating member <NUM> in the form of a floating stop (also referred to with <NUM>) that is movably disposed in a cavity <NUM> of the hub <NUM> to interact with first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub <NUM>, and also which is configured to interact with first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> fixed relative to the shaft <NUM> for providing the range of at least <NUM>-degrees rotation.

The at least <NUM>-degrees rotation range of the extension arm <NUM> about the shaft <NUM> may be based upon a compound of ranges depending on the movement of the floating stop <NUM>, and which contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> or stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> engage the floating stop <NUM>, as will be described in further detail below. The compound of ranges includes at least a first rotation range and a second rotation range. In exemplary embodiments, the first rotation range is defined by a first movable amount of the at least one floating stop <NUM> between the first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> fixed relative to the shaft <NUM>, and the second rotation range is defined by a second movable amount of the at least one floating stop <NUM> between the first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> in the cavity <NUM> of the hub <NUM>.

The cavity <NUM> of the hub <NUM> containing the at least one floating stop <NUM> may be formed by any suitable surface or surfaces of the hub <NUM> that are configured to movably support and contain the floating stop <NUM>, and which such surface(s) are configured to co-rotate along with the remainder of the hub <NUM>. For example, the cavity <NUM> may be formed by at least one radially projecting surface of the hub <NUM>, such as a shelf or rim, that supports the floating stop <NUM> during movement thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity <NUM> is formed by a radially projecting segment, or lug <NUM>, of the hub <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, the floating stop <NUM> is configured to move within the cavity <NUM> along a circumferential path about the axis A-A between the first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub <NUM> (as described in further detail below). As such, the cavity <NUM> containing the floating stop <NUM> may be configured as an elongated circumferential channel that guides the floating stop <NUM> along its circumferential path.

As shown, the cavity <NUM> of the hub <NUM> containing the at least one floating stop <NUM> may be located in an annular region between a radially outer surface <NUM> of the shaft <NUM> and a radially inner surface of the hub <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, a radially inner surface <NUM> of the hub <NUM> is radially outwardly spaced from the radially outer surface <NUM> of the shaft <NUM> to form an annular gap <NUM>. The cavity <NUM> is formed by the lug <NUM> (or other suitable support) of the hub <NUM> that projects radially inwardly from the radially inner surface <NUM> of the hub <NUM> into the annular gap <NUM>. As shown, the lug <NUM> forming the cavity <NUM> contains the floating stop <NUM> with a lower radially projecting wall <NUM> and an upper radially projecting wall <NUM>, each of which include corresponding axially extending surfaces that together form a circumferential wall <NUM> that at least partially encloses the cavity <NUM> and contains the floating stop <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, the circumferential wall <NUM> of the lug <NUM> is radially spaced apart from the outer surface <NUM> of the shaft <NUM> to prevent or minimize contact and thus minimize friction.

To restrict rotational movement of the floating stop <NUM> about the axis A-A, and thereby control the rotation of the extension arm <NUM> and hub <NUM> relative to the shaft <NUM>, the hub <NUM> provides the first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> (also referred to as stop surfaces) on opposite sides of the hub cavity <NUM>. The contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> are configured to engage with the floating stop <NUM> when the extension arm <NUM> and hub <NUM> are pivotably rotated about the shaft <NUM> between opposite first (<FIG>) and second (<FIG>) stop positions, which are at least <NUM>-degrees apart, as described in further detail below. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> are angularly (circumferentially) spaced apart from each other along the rotational path of the floating stop <NUM> to define opposite ends of the lug <NUM> of the hub <NUM>. The contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub <NUM> may be provided in any suitable manner, such as being integral and unitary with the lug <NUM> and/or other portions of the hub <NUM>, as shown; or may be provided as discrete members, such as pins, screws, or the like, which are coupled to the hub <NUM>.

As is apparent in the illustrated embodiment, the angular (circumferential) spacing between the first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub <NUM> may be used to set the rotational limits of the extension arm <NUM> and hub <NUM> relative to the shaft <NUM> to <NUM>-degrees, or may be used to set the rotational limits of the extension arm <NUM> and hub <NUM> relative to the shaft beyond <NUM>-degrees. Such angular spacing and rotational control also may be determined, at least in part, by the angular span (circumferential distance) between opposite sides of the at least one floating stop <NUM> (or multiple floating stops) and the angular span (circumferential distance) between the opposite first and second contact surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> that are fixed relative to the shaft <NUM>. Generally, the greater the angular span between contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub <NUM>, the greater the amount of rotation beyond <NUM>-degrees.

The floating stop <NUM> may be any suitable member that is free to rotate about the axis A-A relative to each of the hub <NUM> and the shaft <NUM>, and which is permitted to interact with the first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub <NUM>, and also interact with the relatively fixed first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> (fixed relative to the shaft <NUM>), to thereby control rotational movement of the hub <NUM> relative to the shaft <NUM>. Such interaction of the floating member <NUM> with the contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> and stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> also enables the at least <NUM>-degrees of rotation of the hub <NUM> about the shaft <NUM>, as described in further detail below.

Generally, the floating stop <NUM> is configured to withstand the forces (e.g., compressive forces) imparted upon it during engagement with the respective contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> and/or stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>. To withstand such forces without permanent deformation, the floating stop <NUM> may be made of a suitable rigid material, such as a stainless steel, or rigid plastic. To minimize stress risers on the floating stop <NUM>, the contact faces <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or the stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>, such engagement interfaces may be configured in a complimentary manner to each other to enhance contact area. In some embodiments, the floating stop <NUM> (or at least one of the floating stops when multiple are used) may provide damping characteristics to the movement between stop positions. In such embodiments, the at least one floating stop <NUM> may be made of a suitable elastomer, for example. In exemplary embodiments, the floating stop <NUM> also is configured to slide along the surfaces of the hub <NUM> (e.g., lug <NUM>) forming the cavity <NUM> with minimal friction and wear. Suitable anti-friction or slip-coatings may be provided on such surfaces of the hub <NUM> and/or floating stop <NUM> to reduce friction and wear.

As shown in the illustrated embodiment, to further enhance movability of the floating stop <NUM> without binding, and to minimize friction and wear, the at least one floating stop <NUM> is configured as a spherical ball bearing. The surface(s) forming the elongated cavity <NUM> also may be formed as curved bearing race(s) for providing a suitable rolling interface with the ball bearing (also referred to with <NUM>). As shown in the illustrated embodiment, for example, the internal surfaces of the lug <NUM> forming the cavity <NUM> are formed in a curved shape that is complimentary to the spherical shape of the ball bearing <NUM>. The bearing race of the lug <NUM> is formed in a complimentary arcuate shape that enables the ball bearing <NUM> to move along its rotational, or circumferential, path to engage the first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> on the opposite sides of the cavity <NUM>. As best shown in <FIG>, for example, the first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub <NUM> also may formed in a complimentary shape to the shape of the spherical ball bearing <NUM> to enhance contact area when the ball bearing <NUM> interfaces against the contact faces <NUM>, <NUM>.

The first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> fixed relative to the shaft <NUM> may be provided as any suitable structure (or combination of structures) configured to interface with the at least one floating stop <NUM> and thereby provide interaction with the contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub <NUM> to control rotation of the extension arm <NUM> relative to the shaft <NUM>. In exemplary embodiments, the first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> are fixed in position relative to the radially outer surface <NUM> of the shaft <NUM> (i.e., are non-rotatable about the axis A-A). In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> are formed by fixed stop <NUM> operatively coupled to the shaft <NUM>, such that the first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> form opposite sides of the fixed stop <NUM>. As shown, the fixed stop <NUM> may be a single fixed stop. The fixed stop <NUM> may be in the form of a pin, bar, rod, roller, or other protuberance coupled to the shaft <NUM> and which is non-rotatable about the axis A-A. It is understood that more than one such fixed stop <NUM> (e.g., pin), or other suitable structure (e.g., protuberance or recess), may be provided to form the first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>, as would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art.

To provide engagement with the floating stop <NUM> when the hub <NUM> is rotated about the shaft <NUM>, the first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> (e.g., the fixed stop <NUM>) are configured to radially overlap with the rotational path of the floating stop <NUM>. For example, in the illustrated embodiment where the hub <NUM> is disposed radially outwardly of the shaft <NUM>, the first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> radially outwardly protrude relative to the outer surface <NUM> of the shaft <NUM> to interact with the floating stop <NUM> disposed in the cavity <NUM> of the hub <NUM>. As shown, the fixed stop <NUM> having the stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> may protrude radially outwardly relative to the outer surface <NUM> of the shaft <NUM> to extend radially across at least a portion of the annular gap <NUM> to a position at which a first engagement surface <NUM> of the floating stop <NUM> can engage the first stop surface <NUM> of the fixed stop <NUM>, and a second (opposite) engagement surface <NUM> of the floating stop <NUM> can engage the second stop surface <NUM> of the fixed stop <NUM>, as will be described in greater detail below. Also as shown (such as in <FIG>), the lug <NUM> (or other hub segment) containing the floating stop <NUM> may include suitable openings <NUM> in the contact faces <NUM>, <NUM>, and includes a slot <NUM> along the circumferential wall <NUM>, to enable the fixed stop <NUM> (e.g., pin) to be received within the cavity <NUM> to engage the floating stop <NUM> and move circumferentially within the cavity <NUM>. In this manner, and as described in further detail below, the fixed stop <NUM> (e.g., pin) is received into the opening of the cavity <NUM> to enable engagement with, and movement of, the floating stop <NUM> from one rotational end position at the first contact face <NUM> to the opposite rotational end at the second contact face <NUM>, thereby providing rotational control and enabling the at least <NUM>-degrees of rotation. It is understood that although shown and described as the fixed stop <NUM> extending radially across the annular gap <NUM> to engage the floating stop <NUM>, alternatively or additionally the floating stop <NUM> could include a radially inwardly protruding portion that extends radially across at least a portion, or the entirety, of the annular gap <NUM> to contact the first and second fixed stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> (fixed relative to the shaft <NUM>), as would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art.

As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the fixed stop <NUM> protruding radially outwardly relative to the shaft <NUM> and the floating stop <NUM> protruding radially inwardly relative to the wall of the hub <NUM> lie in the same horizontal plane that is perpendicular to the rotation axis A-A. Also shown in the illustrated embodiment, the radially inwardly protruding portion of the hub <NUM> (e.g., lug <NUM>) and the floating stop <NUM> lie in the same horizontal (rotational) plane with each other, and lie in the same plane with the fixed stop <NUM>, which said plane is perpendicular to the rotation axis A-A. In this way, the rotational control mechanism <NUM> embodies fewer components and a smaller volumetric footprint than heretofore attained, and simplifies and adds efficiency to the factory assembly and field service of the medical device support system <NUM>. Of course, the invention need not be limited as such and other embodiments are contemplated. For example, the radially outward protruding fixed stop <NUM> may be located in a plane axially above or axially below the plane in which the floating stop <NUM> and the elongated cavity <NUM> lie. In another example, the radially outward protruding fixed stop <NUM> may be located in a plane axially above or axially below the plane in which the floating stop <NUM> lies, and the elongated cavity <NUM> may have an axial height such that the radially outward protruding fixed stop <NUM> and the floating stop <NUM>, although themselves in different planes, both lie in the axial height plane of the elongated cavity <NUM>.

In the illustrative rotational control mechanism <NUM>, there is only a single cavity <NUM> in a hub projection (e.g., lug <NUM>) holding a single floating stop <NUM> (e.g., ball bearing) configured to interact with a single fixed stop <NUM> (e.g., pin). It will be appreciated, however, that more than one elongated cavity <NUM>, more than one floating stop <NUM> and/or more than one fixed stop <NUM> may be suitable for the rotational control mechanism <NUM>. In other embodiments, there may be, two, four, etc. such respective components. It is furthermore noted that the number of elongated cavities <NUM> need not be the same as the number of radially outwardly protruding fixed stops <NUM>.

Referring now more particularly to <FIG>, an exemplary operation of the rotational control mechanism <NUM> will now be described in further detail. As discussed above, the rotational control mechanism <NUM> may enable the at least <NUM>-degree rotation range based on a compound of a first rotation range and a second rotation range. In the illustrated embodiment, the first rotation range is determined by the at least one floating stop <NUM> being movable by a first amount between the first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> fixed relative to the shaft <NUM> (e.g., opposite sides of the fixed stop <NUM>, or pin <NUM>) due to rotational movement of the hub <NUM> relative to the shaft <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the second rotation range is determined by the at least one floating stop <NUM> being movable by a second amount within the elongated cavity <NUM> between the first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub <NUM> due to forces imparted by engagement with the stop surface(s) <NUM>, <NUM> (e.g., sides of the pin <NUM>). In this manner, the hub <NUM> is pivotably mounted for a range of at least <NUM>-degrees rotation about the rotation axis A-A from a first stop position to a second stop position and vice versa.

The exemplary operation will be shown and described in even further detail, starting with reference to <FIG> and comparing this to <FIG>. In <FIG>, the illustrative rotational control mechanism <NUM> is shown in its first stop position. As shown, in the first stop position, the first stop surface <NUM> (e.g., first side of the pin <NUM>) engages a first engagement surface <NUM> of the floating stop <NUM>. The floating stop <NUM> is sandwiched between the first stop surface <NUM> (e.g., pin) and the first contact face <NUM> of the hub <NUM>, such that a second (opposite) engagement surface <NUM> of the floating stop <NUM> engages the first contact face <NUM>. As is apparent in the illustrated state of <FIG>, the ability to further rotate the hub <NUM> clockwise about the axis A-A is restricted. However, in the illustrated state of <FIG>, the hub <NUM> is free to rotate about the axis A-A in a counterclockwise direction, as shown with comparative reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> shows an intermediate rotational state in which the hub <NUM> has been rotated counterclockwise about the axis A-A of the shaft <NUM> by about <NUM>-degrees relative to the first stop position shown in <FIG>. As shown, assuming that the floating stop <NUM> remains idle or stationary with respect to rotation of the hub <NUM>, the floating stop <NUM> is co-rotated along with the hub <NUM> to the intermediate position. In the illustrated state, for example, the floating stop <NUM> is less than <NUM>-degrees from contacting the second stop surface <NUM> (e.g., second side of pin <NUM>). As the hub <NUM> continues its rotation in the counterclockwise direction, the floating stop <NUM> will continue to be carried along with the hub <NUM> in the counterclockwise direction. It is understood that by virtue of forces (e.g., inertia) and/or friction coefficient, the floating stop <NUM> may move or shift within the cavity <NUM> during rotation of the hub <NUM>, such that the floating stop <NUM> (e.g., ball) does not remain exactly in the same position during rotational movement of the hub <NUM>. It also is understood that the hub <NUM> may be rotated back in the clockwise direction from the intermediate position, or any other position between its first and second stop positions, as may be desired during use of the medical device.

Although not expressly shown in the illustrated states, it is understood by comparing the intermediate position in <FIG> to the second stop position in <FIG>, that the first rotation range of the rotational control mechanism is achieved when the floating stop <NUM> moves about the axis A-A with the hub <NUM> from the first stop surface <NUM> (e.g., the first side of the pin <NUM>) to engagement with the second stop surface <NUM> (e.g., the second, opposite side of the pin <NUM>). In the illustration, it is assumed that the second engagement surface <NUM> of the floating stop <NUM> remains in its position relative to the hub <NUM> during rotation, i.e., in engagement with the first contact face <NUM> of the hub <NUM>.

With the foregoing intermediate state in mind, and with comparative reference to <FIG>, in the illustrated embodiment the second rotation range begins when the second engagement surface <NUM> of the floating stop <NUM> engages with the second stop surface <NUM> (e.g., second side of pin <NUM>) and ends when the opposite engagement surface <NUM> of the floating stop <NUM> engages with the second contact face <NUM> of the hub <NUM>. Within this second rotation range, the fixed stop <NUM> (e.g., pin) is configured to enter into the cavity <NUM> via the opening <NUM> in the first contact face <NUM> of the hub <NUM>, and engage with and apply force to move the floating stop <NUM> within the cavity <NUM>. Because the floating stop <NUM> may be unconstrained from movement in its circumferential path in the cavity <NUM>, the fixed stop <NUM> (e.g., pin) moves along the slot <NUM> in the circumferential wall <NUM>, and continues to apply force to move the floating stop <NUM> until the floating stop <NUM> engages the second contact face <NUM> of the hub <NUM>. At the second stop position (shown in <FIG>), the at least one floating stop <NUM> is sandwiched between the second stop surface <NUM> (e.g., pin <NUM>) and the second contact face <NUM> of the hub <NUM>, restricting further counterclockwise rotation of the hub <NUM> relative to the axis.

It is apparent from the foregoing exemplary operation that the same process, but in reverse, can be applied for clockwise rotation of the arm <NUM> and hub <NUM> relative to the shaft <NUM> and axis A-A to provide corresponding first and second rotation ranges to achieve the at least <NUM>-degrees in the opposite direction.

As will be appreciated, in the illustrated embodiment where the floating stop <NUM> is configured as a ball <NUM>, for example, the second engagement surface <NUM> of the ball <NUM> that engages with the first contact face <NUM> of the hub <NUM> may roll as the ball <NUM> moves within the cavity <NUM>, such that this same engagement surface <NUM> may engage with the second contact face <NUM> of the hub <NUM>. Thus, reference to the "first" and "second" engagement surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the floating stop <NUM> refers to those engagement surfaces in a state when interfacing against an opposing surface, understanding that it can be the same surface of the floating stop <NUM> making such contact by virtue of the movement (e.g., rolling) in the cavity <NUM>. Similarly, if the fixed stop <NUM> is configured as a roller that rotates about its own axis but does not rotate about the axis A-A, then such roller may have first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> in engagement with the floating stop <NUM>, which these "first" and "second" stop surfaces may be the same depending on the rolling position of the roller (fixed stop <NUM>).

Also as will be appreciated, in operation, the first and second rotation ranges might not be completed in serial fashion but rather may be completed at least partially in parallel fashion. For example, it will be appreciated that the first movement amount of the floating stop <NUM> between the first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> (e.g., opposite sides of the pin <NUM>), and the second movement amount of the floating stop <NUM> between the first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> on opposite sides of the cavity <NUM>, may vary depending on the forces and/or friction between the respective rotating and/or sliding surfaces of these components. Thus, while <FIG> shows the start of the first and second rotation ranges, and <FIG> shows the completion of the first and second rotation ranges, what occurs between the start and completion of the first and second rotation ranges may depend on the friction and/or forces (e.g., inertial forces) between the rotating and/or sliding surfaces.

It will be appreciated that the rotational control mechanism <NUM> can provide a rotation range greater than <NUM>-degrees, or a rotation range equal to <NUM>-degrees, or even a rotation range less than <NUM>-degrees, by adjusting any of its components, for example the width (angular span) of the elongated cavity <NUM>, and more particularly the width (angular span) between contact faces <NUM>, <NUM>; the width (angular span) between the first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> (e.g., opposite faces of the at least one fixed stop <NUM>); and/or the width (angular span) between the opposite engagement surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the floating stop <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the angular span between the first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub defining the elongated cavity <NUM> is about <NUM>-degrees. The floating stop <NUM> (e.g., ball) has an angular span of about <NUM>-degrees. The fixed stop <NUM> has an angular span of about <NUM>-degrees. Thus, and assuming a negligible thickness at the opposite ends of the cavity <NUM> at the first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM>, the first rotation range is about <NUM>-degrees (<NUM> minus <NUM> minus <NUM>), and the second rotation range (e.g., from the floating stop <NUM> first contacting the fixed stop <NUM> to then engaging the second contact face <NUM> of the hub <NUM>) is about <NUM>-degrees (<NUM> minus <NUM>). An example of the beginning of the first and second rotation ranges is shown in <FIG> and the end of the first and second rotation ranges is shown in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, a transverse axis B-B of the extension arm <NUM> perpendicular to the rotation axis A-A is at a first angular position with an angular offset α relative to a transverse axis C-C of the fixed stop <NUM> (e.g., pin), which this angle α is about <NUM>-degrees clockwise from the transverse axis C-C in the illustrated embodiment. Comparing this to <FIG>, where the extension arm <NUM> and hub <NUM> have rotated about the shaft <NUM> and axis A-A in a counterclockwise direction (that is, the extension arm <NUM> and hub <NUM> have rotated the first and second rotation ranges), the extension arm <NUM> (axis B-B) rotates counterclockwise from the angular position of <FIG> (that is, the position that is <NUM>-degrees clockwise from the transverse axis C-C of the fixed stop <NUM>) toward the transverse axis C-C, then <NUM>-degrees, and then beyond the transverse axis C-C of the fixed stop <NUM> to a second angular position where the transverse axis B-B of the extension arm <NUM> is at an angular offset α' relative to the transverse axis C-C of the fixed stop <NUM>, which this angle α' is about <NUM>-degrees counterclockwise from the transverse axis C-C in the illustrated embodiment. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the extension arm <NUM> and hub <NUM> are rotatable about the shaft <NUM> and axis A-A by about <NUM>-degrees (the first rotation range of <NUM>-degrees plus the second rotation range of <NUM>-degrees).

As will be appreciated, the minimum range of total rotation of the extension arm <NUM> and hub <NUM> about the shaft <NUM> and axis A-A may be <NUM>-degrees or greater than <NUM>-degrees, or even up to just less than <NUM>-degrees (e.g. <NUM>-degrees) if the angular spans of the floating stop <NUM>, cavity <NUM>, and fixed stop <NUM> components so permit. As noted above, this total rotation range may be a compound of the first and second rotation ranges. Where the floating stop <NUM> is in engagement with the first contact face <NUM> when the floating stop engages the second stop surface <NUM>, the arm will have rotated the maximum of the first rotation range and a minimum or none of the second rotation range. Likewise, where the floating stop <NUM> is in engagement with the second contact face <NUM> when the floating stop engages the second stop surface <NUM>, then the arm will have rotated the maximum of the first rotation range and the maximum of the second rotation range, such as shown in <FIG>. Similarly, where the floating stop <NUM> is not in engagement with either contact face <NUM> or <NUM>, then the arm will have rotated in the middle of the second rotation range. Generally, each of the first and second rotation ranges enable greater than <NUM>-degrees of rotation to enable the at least <NUM>-degrees of rotation of the extension arm <NUM> about the shaft <NUM>. It is of course further understood that the rotational control mechanism <NUM> may be modified to provide less than <NUM>-degree total rotation, such as by increasing the angular spans of the floating stop <NUM> and/or fixed stop <NUM>; or adding additional fixed stops <NUM>.

In exemplary embodiments, the elongated cavity <NUM> forms an arcuate segment defined by an angular span between the opposite first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> that may be in a range from about <NUM>-degree to about <NUM>-degrees, and even more particularly from about <NUM>-degres to about <NUM>-degrees, such as about <NUM>-degrees in the illustrated embodiment. In exemplary embodiments, the angular span between the first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> (e.g., width of fixed stop <NUM>) may be in a range from about <NUM>-degree to about <NUM>-degrees, even more particularly between <NUM>-degree and <NUM>-degrees, such as about <NUM>-degrees in the illustrated embodiment. In exemplary embodiments, the floating stop <NUM> may have an angular span in a range from about <NUM>-degree to about <NUM>-degrees, even more particularly between <NUM>-degree and <NUM>-degrees, such as about <NUM>-degrees in the illustrated embodiment. In exemplary embodiments, the at least <NUM>-degrees range provided by the rotational control mechanism <NUM> may be in a range from <NUM>-degrees to less than <NUM>-degrees, more particularly from <NUM>-degrees to <NUM>-degrees, and even more particularly from <NUM>-degrees to <NUM>-degrees, such as about <NUM>-degrees in the illustrated embodiment.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is shown a flowchart <NUM> of the exemplary method of rotating an extension arm about a shaft of a medical device support system, such as for the medical device support system <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The method includes at step <NUM> rotating a hub of the shaft over a range of at least <NUM>-degrees about a rotation axis of the shaft, wherein the rotation range is based on a compound of movement over a first rotation range and movement over a second rotation range. At step <NUM>, the method includes moving the hub the first rotation range including moving a floating stop between first and second stop surfaces fixed relative to the shaft. At step <NUM>, the method includes moving the hub the second rotation range including moving the floating stop between first and second contact faces of a cavity of the hub.

Turning to <FIG>, an exemplary method of assembling a medical device support system <NUM>, and more particularly a rotational control mechanism <NUM>, is shown. The medical device support system <NUM> and the rotational control mechanism <NUM> is substantially the same as that described above in connection with <FIG>, except that the portions of the hub <NUM> defining the elongated cavity <NUM> are illustrated as a multi-part assembly structure for facilitating assembly and/or maintenance of the system <NUM>. Consequently, the same reference numerals are used to denote structures corresponding to the same or substantially similar structures between the system shown in <FIG> and the system shown in <FIG>. Moreover, the foregoing description of the system <NUM> in <FIG> is equally applicable to the system <NUM> in <FIG>, except as noted below.

As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the lower wall <NUM> for forming the elongated cavity <NUM> and supporting the floating stop <NUM> (e.g., ball) is couplable to another portion of the hub <NUM> via suitable fasteners, such as screws <NUM>, which are received in suitable receivers <NUM> in the lower wall <NUM> (e.g., through bores) and in receivers <NUM> in the receiving portion of the hub <NUM> (e.g., threaded bores). This enables ease of assembly for enclosing the floating stop <NUM> within the cavity <NUM>, and also may enable improved maintenance, such as for lubricating surfaces in the cavity and/or replacing the floating stop <NUM> due to wear. It is understood, however, that other assembly methods may be employed. For example, in the illustrative embodiment of <FIG>, the cavity <NUM> may be formed by a unitary surfaces of the hub <NUM>, such as by additive manufacturing, in which the floating stop <NUM> is additively manufactured and enclosed within the cavity <NUM> during the additive manufacturing process. Alternatively, a window or other access opening could be employed for placing the floating stop <NUM> (e.g., ball) within the cavity <NUM>. Generally, as would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art, one or more portions of the hub <NUM> forming the cavity <NUM> may be unitary with other portions of the hub <NUM>; or one or more surfaces supporting and/or containing the floating stop <NUM> may be operatively attached to portions of the hub <NUM> in any suitable manner.

Similarly to the system <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>, the system <NUM> shown in <FIG> includes a plurality of angularly (circumferentially) spaced apart receivers <NUM> in the shaft <NUM>, such as bore holes, that are configured to receive the fixed stop <NUM> (e.g., pin). Any suitable number of receivers <NUM> in any suitable configuration may be provided for securing the fixed stop <NUM>, either removably/adjustably or non-removably/non-adjustably, relative to the shaft <NUM>. This enables greater flexibility in the design of system <NUM>. For example, where the system <NUM> is installed in a particular position within the room, such as near a corner or near other equipment, the ability to selectively decide the rotational path of the extension arm <NUM> during assembly provides greater flexibility during the assembly process. Moreover, the ability to adjust such rotational positions by adjusting the location of the fixed stop <NUM> about the shaft <NUM> enables improved flexibility, such as when the room layout is modified, without having to relocate the entire system <NUM>. Moreover, the multiple locations of the receivers <NUM> also may enable multiple fixed stops <NUM> to be employed in the system <NUM>, such as where less than the full rotational range enabled by the rotational control mechanism <NUM> is desired, such as for limiting the rotational travel to only <NUM>-degrees, or even less than <NUM>-degrees. Such possibilities greatly enhance the flexibility the system design.

Briefly turning back to <FIG>, for example, twelve such receivers <NUM> are provided in evenly spaced apart positions (e.g., <NUM>-degrees apart) about the shaft <NUM> for receiving the fixed stop <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the receivers <NUM> are configured as counter-sunk threaded bores in which the fixed stop <NUM> (e.g., threaded pin) may be threaded into the threaded bore. Alternatively, the bores may be through holes and the fixed stop may be press fit into the bores. In either case, the position of the fixed stop(s) <NUM> are removable and selectively adjustable to control the rotational movement of the extension arm <NUM> and hub <NUM> relative to the shaft <NUM>.

Again referring to <FIG>, and similarly to the system <NUM> in <FIG>, to facilitate assembly and/or adjustment of the rotational control mechanism <NUM>, the hub <NUM> includes opening <NUM>, such as a window, which may be covered by a suitable cover (not shown) and fastened with suitable fasteners, such as screws <NUM>. As shown, the hub <NUM> also may include at least one notched portion <NUM>, or cutout, for facilitating insertion and/or removal of the fixed stop <NUM> during assembly and/or adjustment of the rotational control mechanism <NUM>. The notched portion(s) <NUM> are circumferentially offset from the cavity <NUM>, and axially align with the location of the receivers <NUM> in the shaft <NUM>. This is because, in the illustrated embodiment, the hub <NUM> generally may be axially constrained once installed on the shaft <NUM>.

Turning now to <FIG>, another exemplary embodiment of a medical device support system <NUM> including an exemplary rotational control mechanism <NUM> is shown. The system <NUM> and rotational control mechanism <NUM> is substantially the same as the above-referenced medical device support system <NUM> and rotational control mechanism <NUM>, except that the floating stop <NUM> in the illustrated embodiment of <FIG> is configured in a polyhedron shape and surfaces of the hub <NUM> and/or fixed stop <NUM> are configured complimentary to the floating stop <NUM>. Consequently, the same reference numerals but indexed by <NUM> are used to denote structures corresponding to similar structures in the systems <NUM>, <NUM>. In addition, the foregoing description of the system <NUM> is equally applicable to the system <NUM>, except as noted below. Moreover, it will be appreciated upon reading and understanding the specification that aspects of the systems <NUM>, <NUM> may be substituted for one another or used in conjunction with one another where applicable.

Similarly to the system <NUM>, the system <NUM> includes a shaft <NUM>, at least one extension arm <NUM> having a support for a medical device, and a hub <NUM> at a proximal end of the extension arm <NUM> and mounted to the shaft <NUM> for pivotable movement about a rotation axis A-A of the shaft <NUM>. The rotational control mechanism <NUM> of the system <NUM> includes at least one floating stop <NUM> movably disposed in an elongated cavity <NUM> of the hub <NUM>, and which interacts with first and second contact faces <NUM>, <NUM> of the hub, and with first and second stop surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> fixed relative to the shaft <NUM>, for providing the range of at least <NUM>-degrees rotation of the extension arm <NUM> about a rotation axis A-A of the shaft <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A medical device support system (<NUM>), comprising: a shaft (<NUM>); an extension arm (<NUM>) having a support for a medical device; a hub (<NUM>) at a proximal end of the extension arm and mounted to the shaft for pivotable movement of the extension arm and the hub about a rotation axis of the shaft, the hub having an elongated cavity (<NUM>) including first and second contact faces (<NUM>,<NUM>); and at least one floating stop (<NUM>) movably disposed in the elongated cavity of the hub between the first and second contact faces; wherein the hub is pivotably mounted for a range of at least <NUM>-degrees rotation about the rotation axis, wherein the at least <NUM>-degrees rotation range is based on a compound of a first rotation range and a second rotation range, wherein the first rotation range is defined by a first movable amount of the at least one floating stop between first and second stop surfaces fixed relative to the shaft, and wherein the second rotation range is defined by a second movable amount of the at least one floating stop between the first and second contact faces of the hub.