CPR Assist Wedge for Effective Compression in Obese Patients
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cardiopulmonary resuscitation methods are ineffective for obese patients due to the excess adipose tissue deflecting and absorbing the force applied during chest compressions, making it difficult to achieve effective heart compression.
Innovation Solution
A cardiopulmonary resuscitation assist device with a raised region on its surface to support the spine and upper thorax, allowing for improved chest compression by reducing the deflection of force through the adipose tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If chest compression is performed on obese patients using conventional methods, then the compression force is applied to the chest, but the excess adipose tissue deflects and absorbs the force, reducing the effectiveness of heart compression
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension by elevating the patient's upper torso and head using a wedge-shaped device. This dimensional change repositions the heart higher, allowing compression force to be applied more directly to the heart rather than being dissipated through horizontal adipose tissue layers. The wedge geometry creates a triangular support structure that lifts the thoracic cavity, transforming the compression pathway from a horizontal force application to a more vertical, direct heart compression vector.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge-shaped device acts as an intermediary between the patient's body and the compression force. By positioning the device under the upper torso and head, it creates a mechanical lever arm that amplifies and directs compression force more effectively to the heart. The device serves as a force transmission medium that overcomes the intervening adipose tissue barrier, allowing rescuers to apply compression with greater mechanical advantage.
2Reliability
If a raised region is added to support the spine and upper thorax, then force transmission to the heart is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional regions: a base portion for patient support, a raised wedge-shaped region for thoracic elevation, and hand grip portions for device manipulation. This segmentation allows each region to perform its specific function optimally while keeping the overall design manageable. The modular nature of the segments enables independent optimization of each component's geometry and material properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge-shaped raised region employs curved, contoured surfaces that conform to the natural anatomy of the upper torso and head. These curved geometries distribute pressure more evenly across contact points, preventing localized stress concentrations while maintaining effective thoracic elevation. The smooth transitions between device regions reduce structural complexity compared to sharp angular joints.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention deals with a simple device to aid in cardiac compression to assist in reestablishing normal heart rhythm. The design and size of the device is particularly useful in morbidly obese individuals that require cardiac compressions in order to optimize resuscitation efforts.