Breast Measuring Device Using Pneumatic Volume Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining breast size and symmetry in surgical procedures are inaccurate and rely on subjective estimates, lacking a reliable and objective measurement tool for both pre-surgical planning and post-surgical evaluation.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a gas-filled chamber with a flexible membrane that flexes in response to breast pressure, using pressure sensors to measure changes in gas pressure and volume, which are then analyzed to calculate breast volume and symmetry, potentially integrated with mobile devices or remote platforms for precise measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual estimation methods are used to determine breast size and symmetry, then the measurement process is simple and quick, but the measurement precision and reliability are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a gas-filled chamber with a flexible membrane that deforms in response to breast pressure, converting mechanical pressure into measurable volume changes. Pressure sensors detect the gas pressure changes, enabling precise volumetric measurement of breast tissue through pneumatic principles.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces subjective visual estimation with an automated sensor-based measurement system. Pressure sensors and electronic analyzers objectively quantify breast volume and symmetry, eliminating human subjectivity and improving measurement reliability.
2Loss of information
If no measurement device is used, then the consultation and surgical planning process is straightforward, but the information completeness and decision-making accuracy are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides real-time feedback through pressure sensors that continuously monitor gas pressure changes as the breast is placed in the chamber. The analyzer processes this feedback data to calculate breast volume and symmetry metrics, enabling informed surgical planning and implant selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas-filled chamber acts as an intermediary between the breast and the pressure sensors. The flexible membrane transmits breast pressure to the gas, which then transmits the force to the sensors, enabling indirect but accurate measurement of breast properties.
3Reliability
If subjective appraisals are used for post-surgical evaluation, then the evaluation process is simple, but the assessment accuracy and objectivity are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces subjective surgeon appraisal with automated sensor-based measurement. Pressure sensors and electronic analyzers objectively quantify breast volume and symmetry post-surgery, providing reliable data for assessing surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction.
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
Provides an objective and accurate measurement of breast volume and symmetry, enabling surgeons to make informed decisions during procedures and ensuring symmetrical results, while also allowing for non-clinical applications such as bra sizing.
Implementation Method 1
The flexure of the membrane causes a change in the pressure and volume of the gas within said enclosed space
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a device for measuring breast volume is disclosed, which comprises a housing comprising an enclosure having an opening, a flexible membrane sealingly covering said opening so as to provide an enclosed space within said enclosure, a gas disposed within said enclosed space, and at least one pressure sensor coupled to said enclosure so as to measure pressure of said gas within said enclosed space. The flexible membrane is configured to reversibly flex into said enclosed space in response to pressure of a breast against the membrane. The flexure of the membrane causes a change in the pressure and volume of the gas within said enclosed space.