Concentric Fluid Delivery Line for Targeted Temperature Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current targeted temperature management (TTM) systems face challenges in ensuring reliable and easy connectivity between the TTM module and thermal contact pads, particularly over long distances, with a need for secure connections and minimal heat transfer to maintain therapeutic efficacy.
Innovation Solution
A TTM system with a multi-conduit fluid delivery line and a connection system that includes a connectivity sensor, display, and locking mechanism to confirm secure connections, minimize heat transfer, and allow for controlled fluid flow and temperature monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a long fluid delivery line is used to locate the TTM control module away from the patient, then portability and flexibility are improved, but heat transfer to and from the TTM fluid increases
Solution Approach 1:
An insulated conduit is introduced as an intermediary component between the TTM control module and the thermal contact pad. This conduit acts as a thermal barrier that mediates the heat transfer process, allowing the fluid delivery line to extend over long distances while minimizing unwanted thermal exchange with the environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the conventional non-insulated fluid delivery line with an insulated conduit system. This substitution introduces thermal insulation properties to the mechanical system, fundamentally changing how heat transfer occurs along the fluid delivery path and enabling long-distance operation with minimal thermal loss.
2Reliability
If a secure connection system is implemented between the fluid delivery line and thermal contact pad, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates self-latching and self-aligning features that enable the fluid delivery line connector to automatically secure itself to the thermal contact pad. The connector performs its own connection and locking functions without requiring additional external mechanisms, achieving reliable connection while minimizing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design employs asymmetric features including a tapered insertion path and a cam-actuated locking mechanism. These asymmetric geometries provide foolproof connection orientation and automatic engagement, ensuring reliable connection while keeping the interface simple and intuitive for users.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent accidental disconnection, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed as a self-activating system that automatically engages when the connector is properly inserted. The cam mechanism converts the insertion motion itself into the locking action, so the user's natural connection motion simultaneously secures the connection without requiring separate locking steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates visual indicators such as color-coded alignment marks and a visible locked/unlocked status indicator. These visual cues guide users through the connection process and provide immediate feedback on connection status, making the operation intuitive while maintaining secure locking.
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 system ensures reliable and secure connections, reduces heat transfer, and allows for precise control of temperature and fluid flow, enhancing the effectiveness of TTM therapies by maintaining therapeutic temperatures and preventing accidental disconnections.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid delivery line providing fluid communication between the TTM module and the thermal pad
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for providing targeted temperature management (TTM) therapy to a patient. For example, TTM systems include a connection system for coupling a fluid deliver line to a thermal contact pad. The connection system is configured to provide indication to the user that the fluid deliver line is completely connected to thermal contact pad. In addition, the connection system also includes a controller for activating a connection lock and for sharing signals with a TTM system module. The fluid deliver line includes a pair of conduits arranged concentrically and the thermal pad includes a TTM fluid filter disposed within a fluid containing layer.