Cervical Collar Fluid Circulation for Targeted Temperature Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cervical collars do not effectively manage temperature to prevent over-heating or provide therapeutic hypothermia, which can be crucial in treating traumatic head or neck injuries, and lack features for targeted temperature management.
Innovation Solution
A cervical collar with an integrated bladder system that can circulate cooling or warming fluid, featuring adjustable components and temperature indicators, allowing for targeted temperature management and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional cervical collars are used, then head and neck immobilization is provided, but temperature management capability is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cervical collar immobilization function with temperature management functionality by integrating a bladder system, pump, and temperature control mechanisms into the collar structure. This merging allows the device to simultaneously provide spinal support and active temperature regulation, resolving the contradiction between adding new capabilities and maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cervical collar is designed to perform multiple functions: immobilization of the head and neck, active cooling through circulating cold fluid, and potential heating capabilities. This multi-functionality approach allows a single device to address both mechanical support needs and thermal management requirements, improving reliability without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Reliability
If no targeted temperature management is implemented, then device simplicity is maintained, but therapeutic effectiveness is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements targeted temperature management by positioning the bladder system specifically in the cervical region where it can directly cool the spinal cord and surrounding tissues. The localized placement of cooling elements and the targeted circulation of temperature-controlled fluid through the collar structure enables precise therapeutic intervention without requiring complex whole-body cooling systems.
3Reliability
If cooling fluid circulation is added, then therapeutic hypothermia is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system is designed to automatically circulate cooling fluid through the bladder without requiring manual intervention. The system includes temperature sensors and control mechanisms that self-regulate the cooling process, maintaining therapeutic hypothermia through automated feedback control. This self-service capability reduces the operational complexity burden on the user while maintaining effective therapeutic function.
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
Enables effective therapeutic hypothermia or warming by selectively targeting cerebral vasculature, reducing side effects and enhancing patient comfort and safety.
Implementation Method 1
A cooling device for a cervical collar may include a cooling fluid source, a pump, a bladder... The cooling fluid source, pump, and bladder may be integrated into a temperature controlled water pack
Implementation Method 2
A heating device for a cervical collar may include a heating fluid source, a pump, a bladder... The heating fluid source, pump, and bladder may be integrated into a temperature controlled water pack
Data Source
AI summary
A system that selectively controls temperature within a device such as a neck/head wrap is disclosed. The system can include a pump system having a reservoir that holds a liquid, an element that regulates temperature of the liquid within the reservoir; a pump that draws the liquid from the reservoir; and a distribution manifold attached to the pump hose that receives and distributes the liquid to at least two devices (e.g., cervical collars). The system is also equipped to be selectively monitored, for example, via a smartphone, tablet or computer.