Abstract
Described herein is an automatic fall-safe braking system for a height-adjustable patient support table that uses a scissor-lift mechanism for elevation. The disclosed system integrates a braking mechanism into the table elevation structure to automatically prevent unintended downward motion when operating power is removed or an unsafe condition occurs. The purpose is to prevent uncontrolled table descent during sudden power loss or service operations, without requiring any manual intervention from an operator or service engineer. The system mounts a braking mechanism directly on a scissor shaft. In some embodiments, the braking mechanism comprises a spring-set, electromagnetically released brake mounted directly on the central scissor shaft. when the system is powered, the electromagnet holds the brake in its released state permitting normal elevation movement, and when power is removed the spring force automatically engages the brake and locks the scissor shaft in place. The result is that the table is automatically locked against unintended descent at any height position upon power loss or other triggering condition, eliminating the unprotected window that exists with manual safety-lock procedures and reducing the risk of fall incidents for patients and service personnel across the full elevation range of the system.
Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Anonymous, "Automatic Elevation Brake and Fall-Safety Locking Mechanism for Height-Adjustable Patient Support Tables", Technical Disclosure Commons, (August 27, 2026)
https://www.tdcommons.org/dpubs_series/11513