Automatic Tracheotomy Device with Capacitance and Pressure Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tracheotomy devices lack automation, requiring skilled medical personnel and are not suitable for immediate use in emergencies, leading to potential life-threatening situations when professionals are unavailable.
Innovation Solution
A handheld tracheotomy/cricothyrotomy device with a box-shaped center apparatus, removable handlebar, capacitance measuring system, pressure sensor, ultrasonic sensor, and LEDs that automates the insertion of a tracheotomy tube by indicating proper placement and pressure, and automatically retracts the obturator, ensuring easy and sterile operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If professional medical personnel perform tracheotomy manually, then the procedure can be performed with traditional skills, but it requires skilled operators and is not available in emergency situations when professionals are unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables self-service operation by incorporating automated guidance systems, sensors, and actuators that allow non-medical personnel to perform tracheotomy procedures independently. The system automatically guides tube insertion, detects anatomical structures, and provides real-time feedback, eliminating the need for skilled medical operators in emergency situations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated electronic systems. Traditional manual tracheotomy requires skilled hand maneuvers and anatomical knowledge, while this device uses electronic sensors, motors, and control systems to automatically perform the procedure, substituting human expertise with automated technology.
2Reliability
If manual tracheotomy is performed by skilled personnel, then proper technique can be applied, but operator error occurs and time is lost when professionals are unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates real-time feedback mechanisms through sensors that detect tube position, tissue contact, and anatomical structure identification. This feedback is displayed to the operator and provides automatic adjustment capabilities, ensuring reliable tube placement while eliminating the time loss associated with seeking professional help in emergency situations.
3Device complexity
If traditional tracheotomy devices are used, then the structure is simple, but they lack guidance systems and sensors for proper placement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary systems in the form of sensors, guides, and feedback mechanisms that mediate between the operator and the tracheotomy procedure. These intermediaries provide precise measurement and guidance capabilities, enabling accurate tube placement while managing the increased device complexity through integrated design.
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 simplifies the insertion of a tracheotomy tube, reducing operator error and enabling non-medical personnel to establish an airway quickly and safely in emergencies, while being reusable, inexpensive, and easy to maintain.
Implementation Method 1
the box shaped center apparatus contains a capacitance measuring system for locating specific portions of the trachea
Implementation Method 2
The present invention includes a combination of two sensors, one for location and one for pressure, to further aid a user in proper operation
Implementation Method 3
a pressure sensor and an ultrasonic or ultrasound sensor to aid a user in proper positioning and pressure to exert
Implementation Method 4
corresponding light emitting diodes (LEDs) or some other type of light that will be connected to the sensors
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic tracheotomy/cricothyrotomy device is disclosed herein. This device includes a hand-held apparatus having a box shaped center apparatus (box) with a removable attached handlebar (handlebar). The handlebar includes two handles and top and bottom center bars. The handlebar contains four receiver clips. The box contains clip locks that secure the box onto the handlebar. Additionally, the box contains a capacitance measuring system for locating specific portions of the trachea, a peel-off cover that exposes a cleansing pad and adhesive backed flange. The flange has ribbons for securing the tube in a patient's neck. The box also contains pressure and locator sensors with corresponding indicator lights/sounds. The center box also contains a mechanism for penetrating the tracheal cartilage or medial cricothyroid membrane while simultaneously inserting a tube member. The mechanism retracts the puncture obturator back into the box leaving the tube inserted. Securing ribbons are exposed then placed around a patient's neck.