Intelligent injection device with real-time vein detection and depth-controlled needle insertion

Abstract

A portable intelligent injection device comprising: • a real-time vein detection system using near-infrared imaging; • a motorized needle insertion unit configured to insert a needle based on the calculated depth.

Description

SCOPE OF THE INVENTIONThe present disclosure relates to a smart injection device with real-time vein detection and depth-controlled needle puncture. The proposed device improves the injection accuracy and safety by integrating imaging, sensor system and automation into a single portable system. It is intended to assist medical professionals in intravenous or intramuscular injections and to reduce the risk of venetrations, improper injections and discomfort to the patient.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONIntravenous or intramuscular injections have long been based on the experience of medical professionals manually locating veins and determining the proper puncture depth. However, the poor visibility of veins in children, elderly and obese patients, as well as in dark skin color persons makes precise injection difficult. These complications can lead to overseerous veins, tissue trauma and increased pain.To solve these problems, the proposed invention integrates a near infrared (NIR) vein imaging system, depth of needle sensors, and a motorized insertion mechanism into a compact, portable device. The invention is also equipped with a smart control system that provides live feedback and prevents overinjection, which ultimately improves injection precision and patient comfort.Thus, the present invention aims to overcome existing limitations and to provide a safer, more efficient alternative for the administration of injections in different clinical areas.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONA simplified summary of the proposed invention is presented below in order to facilitate understanding of the most important features. This summary is not exhaustive and does not describe the entire scope of the invention. Its purpose is to clearly and predict the basic elements.Accordingly, the invention relates to a smart injection device with real-time vein detection and depth-controlled needle puncture.According to an embodiment of the present subject matter, the smart injection device includes a near infrared imaging system configured to recognize veins under the skin by analyzing light absorption differences. The vein image is captured by a central camera surrounded by NIR LEDs and processed to determine the optimum injection site and depth. A motorized actuator accurately inserts the needle based on this data while sensors monitor tissue resistance during puncture.The device may also include a touch screen display on which a live vain map, current puncture depth, and system warnings are displayed in real time. Visual and audible indicators (LEDs and buzzers) direct the user through each phase of the injection process. All components are housed in an ergonomic, handy case and powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.These and other functions provide an intelligent solution to improve injection results, especially in complex or high risk cases.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONThe embodiments described herein and the various components will be described in more detail with reference to preferred implementations. For clarity, general or known components and techniques will not be discussed in detail unless necessary. The disclosed embodiments are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive, and may be modified without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.Accordingly, embodiments of a smart injection device with real-time vein detection and depth-controlled needle puncture are presented herein.According to an embodiment, the apparatus comprises a near infrared (NIR) imaging module with an array of NIR LEDs and a central infrared sensitive camera. This imaging system takes subdermal images that emphasize the veins due to their higher absorption of infrared light. These images are processed by a built-in microcontroller to identify appropriate venous sites and to calculate the depth of the targeted vein.In addition, the apparatus may include a motorized needle lancing mechanism controlled by a linear actuator. The actuator is connected to a position sensor (encoder) that tracks the advancement of the needle in real time. A load or pressure sensor is also provided to measure tissue resistance to prevent too deep a puncture and minimize the risk of injury or venous tears.In addition, the proposed device has a user interface with a touchscreen display for live visualization of the vein map, the depth of needle and the system messages (e.g. "vein found", "injection completed" or "resistance detected"). LED indicators and a buzzer provide additional feedback to the operator.The entire device is located in an ergonomic plastic housing of medical quality with a transparent window for the imaging components. It is operated with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that ensures portability and wireless operation at the clinic or home.The embedded microcontroller coordinates all inputs from the sensors and controls the motorized mechanism, providing real-time feedback and security. In addition, the system may be configured to store injection data or wirelessly transmit information to external systems for documentation and monitoring purposes.Routine maintenance includes periodic sensor calibration, software updates for improved vein detection algorithms, and sterilization of the needle module. The device can also be programmed to conform to different patient profiles (e.g., pediatric, geriatric) by adjusting the parameters for sensitivity and puncture depth.The smart injection device thus provides a comprehensive and user-friendly solution for improving injection safety, accuracy and patient experience.

Claims

A portable smart injection device comprising: • a real-time vein detection system using near infrared imaging; • a motorized needle insertion unit configured to insert a needle based on the calculated depth.The smart injection device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises: • a camera and light filter system configured to detect veins by analysis of subdermal infrared light absorption; • an integrated processor for identifying vein position and calculating puncture depth.The smart injection device of claim 1, further comprising: • a pressure or load sensor configured to monitor tissue resistance and stop advancement of the needle when an abnormal force is detected.The smart injection device of any preceding claim further comprises: • a touch screen display for real-time feedback including vein maps, depth indicators, and system alerts.The smart injection device of any preceding claim, wherein: • visual and audible indicators are included to assist the user during each phase of the injection.The smart injection device of any preceding claim, wherein: • the device is powered by a rechargeable lithium ion battery and housed in an ergonomic medical grade enclosure.The smart injection device of any preceding claim, wherein: • the device includes wireless communication modules for storing data or transmitting data to external monitoring systems.