Blood Vessel Projection Tool for Precise Needle Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blood vessel localization devices are bulky, lack accuracy, and are not easy or quick to apply, making them inadequate for precise and efficient blood draw procedures.
Innovation Solution
A blood vessel localization device using acoustic waves to determine the location of blood vessels, projecting an image onto the skin surface for accurate alignment, which can be compact, easy to use, and quick to apply, providing detailed location information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensor-based localization devices are used to detect blood vessels, then blood vessel location can be identified, but the device becomes bulky and lacks sufficient accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sensor arrays with an optical projection system. The device uses a light source and lens to project the blood vessel image directly onto the skin surface, eliminating the need for bulky mechanical sensors and achieving both compactness and high localization accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an optical copy of the blood vessel by projecting its image onto the skin surface. This optical copying approach provides accurate visual localization without requiring complex sensor arrays, thereby reducing device bulkiness while maintaining measurement precision
2Loss of information
If sensor arrays are used for blood vessel detection, then location information is provided, but the device is not easy or quick to apply
Solution Approach 1:
The device allows the blood vessel image to be projected directly onto the skin surface without requiring manual attachment of sensor arrays. The projection system automatically displays the vessel location, making the device easy and quick to apply while providing complete location information
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical projection to display the blood vessel image in visible form on the skin surface. This visual indication method provides comprehensive location information while being extremely easy and quick to apply, as it eliminates complex sensor attachment procedures
3Loss of information
If conventional localization devices are used, then basic location is detected, but detailed location information and orientation guidance are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent projects the blood vessel image onto the two-dimensional skin surface, adding visual dimensionality to the location information. This projection approach provides comprehensive details including vessel orientation and depth without significantly increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The optical projection system serves multiple functions: it locates the blood vessel, displays its orientation, and provides depth information through image characteristics. This multi-functionality achieves comprehensive information provision while maintaining device simplicity
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 offers improved accuracy and ease of use by projecting an image directly above the blood vessel, facilitating precise needle alignment for procedures like blood draws, suitable for various types of blood vessels and limbs.
Implementation Method 1
at least one acoustic wave emitter configured to transmit an acoustic wave through a skin surface of the limb
Implementation Method 2
at least one acoustic wave receiver configured to detect acoustic waves reflected by the limb
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (10) for locating a blood vessel in a limb of a living being, configured to be arranged substantially opposite a surface of the skin covering the blood vessel in the limb, the device (10) comprising means (1) for determining the location of the blood vessel. According to the invention, the locating device (10) comprises means for projecting, onto the surface of the skin, at least one image for locating the blood vessel.