Airway Stabilization System with KAD-Collar Retention
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing airway stabilization systems fail to effectively prevent clinically significant movement of airway devices in response to multidirectional forces, leading to unplanned extubation, which is costly and hazardous due to inadequate resistance against forces like bending, torsional, or rotational movements, and can result in reduced ventilatory efficiency or complete occlusion of the airway.
Innovation Solution
An active airway stabilization system comprising an airway device with a continuous sidewall and a retention collar (KAD-collar) that integrates with a securing apparatus featuring a faceplate and restraining tower, providing a secure fit without constricting the airway, thus preventing movement from forces applied in any direction without compromising airflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional securing devices (tape, adhesive) are used to secure the airway device, then the device can be easily applied, but the resistance against multidirectional forces is insufficient leading to unplanned extubation
Solution Approach 1:
The securing device is divided into multiple independent components: a stabilizer body with a retention structure, a stabilizing member that engages with the airway device, and a fastening mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to specifically address different aspects of force resistance - the retention structure resists longitudinal forces, the stabilizing member resists lateral and rotational forces, and the fastening mechanism secures the assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a three-dimensional stabilization approach by adding vertical engagement elements (retention structure with engaging surfaces) that interact with the airway device in multiple spatial dimensions. This prevents movement not just in one direction but in all directions (longitudinal, lateral, rotational), transforming a one-dimensional securing problem into a multi-dimensional solution.
2Stability of the object's composition
If increased securing force is applied to prevent movement, then stability improves, but the airway may become constricted compromising ventilation
Solution Approach 1:
The retention structure acts as an intermediary between the securing device and the airway device. It provides engagement surfaces that stabilize the airway device without requiring direct compression of the airway lumen. The stabilizing member engages with external features of the airway device (such as the connector or outer surface) rather than compressing the tube itself, thus preventing airway constriction while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing device applies localized stabilization forces at specific engagement points (retention structure interfaces with the airway device connector or outer surface) rather than applying circumferential compression around the entire airway device. This localized engagement provides stability while leaving the airway lumen uncompressed and patent.
3Reliability
If complex securing mechanisms are used to resist multidirectional forces, then prevention of extubation improves, but the application time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple stabilization functions into a single integrated securing device assembly. The retention structure, stabilizing member, and fastening mechanism work together as one unit that can be applied in a single motion. This merging of functions allows the device to resist multidirectional forces while being applied quickly without requiring multiple separate steps or components.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention structure is pre-configured with engaging surfaces and geometric features that automatically align with corresponding features on the airway device connector. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for precise manual alignment during application, allowing rapid securing even in emergency situations. The device is designed to engage in a single snap-fit or click-action motion rather than requiring gradual adjustment.
Data Source
AI summary
An airway device and a securing mechanism or faceplate each of which include active stabilizing components which prevent clinically significant movement of the airway device with respect to a patient's vocal cords in response to the application of significant forces in any direction to the airway device, be they longitudinal, torsional/rotational or bending. The improved airway device and faceplate each have interactive components that cooperate integrally with and engage one another to provide unparalleled strength and stability against movement. The securing mechanism includes a stabilizer adapted to releaseably engage or release a retention structure on the airway device to facilitate ease of application in all conditions. A mechanism attached to the airway device allows a secure connection of a 15 mm respiratory connector to the airway device while facilitating easy disconnection of the 15 mm connector from the airway device.