Anatomical Landmark Band for Reproducible Injection Site Targeting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for administering injections, such as nerve blocks, require significant training and costly equipment to accurately identify injection sites and avoid underlying structures, limiting the number of professionals who can perform these procedures.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus using anatomical landmark guidance with a targeting band and landmark identifiers that deform linearly to facilitate consistent and reproducible administration of injections, eliminating the need for expensive diagnostic equipment and reducing training requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a traditional syringe is used for intramuscular injection, then the injection process is simple, but the medication may be injected into subcutaneous tissue instead of muscle tissue, reducing efficacy and potentially causing harm
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the inner needle is positioned within the outer needle, and the plunger is contained within the needle assembly. This nested design allows multiple functional components to be integrated in a compact form while maintaining the ability to control injection depth through the relative movement of nested elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic elements including the movable plunger that can be pushed to control injection timing and depth, and the flexible diaphragm that dynamically responds to pressure changes. The inner needle can also be moved relative to the outer needle to adjust injection parameters, transforming a static syringe into a dynamically controllable device.
2Reliability
If a traditional syringe without depth control is used, then the device is easy to operate, but the medication injection depth cannot be controlled, leading to potential harm
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through the depth indicator system that provides visual feedback to the operator about the current injection depth. The indicator moves in response to plunger movement and needle penetration, allowing the operator to monitor and control injection depth in real-time without requiring complex training or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action through the pre-configured needle assembly with predetermined depth markings and the pre-positioned inner needle within the outer needle. The device is prepared in advance with all necessary components in place, allowing the operator to simply push the plunger to achieve controlled injection without complex setup or adjustment during the procedure.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional syringe is used, then the device structure is simple, but the medication may leak into subcutaneous tissue, causing harm
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - the inner needle - that acts as a mediator between the medication reservoir and the target muscle tissue. The inner needle is surrounded by the outer needle and controlled by the plunger mechanism, serving as an intermediate conduit that ensures medication is delivered precisely to the intended depth and location, preventing premature leakage into subcutaneous tissue.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating different functional zones within the needle assembly. The inner needle provides a controlled pathway for medication delivery to deep muscle tissue, while the outer needle protects the inner needle and provides structural support. The diaphragm creates a localized sealing zone that prevents leakage. Each component has specialized properties optimized for its specific function in preventing medication leakage.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
An apparatus for targeting an injection site using anatomical landmarks includes a first landmark identifier, a second landmark identifier, and a targeting band. The targeting band is connected with the first landmark identifier at a first end and a second landmark identifier at a second end. At least a portion of the targeting band is linearly deformable. In another embodiment, an apparatus for targeting an injection site using anatomical landmarks on a patient includes a targeting band having a first end and a second end, at least a portion of the targeting being linearly deformable, a first landmark identifier pivotably connected to the targeting band at the first end, a second landmark identifier configured to be connected with the second end of the targeting band; and a fastener configured to secure the first and second landmark identifiers to the patient.