Automated Vessel Puncture Device Using 3D Near-Infrared Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current venipuncture methods are challenging due to difficulties in locating veins, especially in younger and elderly individuals, leading to discomfort and bruising, as existing technologies lack accurate depth representation and often require manual estimation, resulting in human error.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained, portable device combining near-infrared 3D imaging and robotic needle guidance with haptic feedback to accurately map and puncture subcutaneous veins, eliminating the need for manual estimation and reducing human error.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual venipuncture is performed by trained personnel, then the procedure can be completed with existing simple equipment, but locating the target vein becomes challenging and requires multiple attempts leading to patient discomfort and bruising
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary vein localization and depth mapping using NIR imaging before needle insertion. The imaging system captures vein location and calculates depth information in advance, allowing the needle to be guided precisely to the target vein on the first attempt, eliminating multiple failed attempts that cause patient discomfort and bruising.
Solution Approach 2:
The NIR imaging system acts as an intermediary between the operator and the target vein. It provides visual feedback and depth information that bridges the gap between manual estimation and actual vein location, enabling precise needle guidance without direct visual contact with the deep subcutaneous vein.
2Measurement precision
If 2D imaging systems are used to locate veins, then vein positioning can be visualized externally, but depth representation is lost requiring human estimation that introduces error
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from 2D vein imaging to 3D vein mapping by incorporating depth calculation algorithms. The NIR imaging system captures 2D vein images and uses computational methods to estimate depth information, creating a pseudo-3D representation that preserves depth data without requiring complex 3D imaging hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual depth estimation with automated computational depth calculation. Instead of relying on human judgment to estimate vein depth, the system uses image processing algorithms to calculate depth information from 2D NIR images, eliminating human error and providing precise depth measurement.
3Extent of automation
If robotic needle guidance is combined with current commercial imaging systems such as CT and MR, then automated puncture can be achieved, but the devices become cumbersome and non-portable
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the essential imaging function needed for vein localization from complex CT/MR systems. By using a dedicated portable NIR imaging system instead of full-scale medical imaging equipment, the system achieves automated needle guidance while maintaining portability and simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a simplified optical copy of the vein structure using NIR imaging instead of requiring physical presence of complex imaging equipment. The NIR system captures optical information about vein location and depth, providing sufficient data for robotic guidance without the bulk of CT or MR scanners.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device provides precise needle insertion, reducing patient discomfort and increasing efficiency by generating a 3D map of subcutaneous veins and using robotic guidance to ensure accurate puncture depth, thus minimizing trauma and bruising.
Implementation Method 1
near infrared (NIR) light has the ability to penetrate human tissue better than visible light and is differentially absorbed by oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin
Implementation Method 2
infrared light can be used to image subcutaneous veins
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to an automated vessel puncture device, methods of mapping three-dimensional views of subcutaneous vessels and methods for providing simultaneous real-time diagnostic assay.