Endotracheal Cuff Pressure Regulator with Biasing Plunger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for regulating cuff pressure in endotracheal tubes are prone to user error and subjectivity, requiring manual adjustment and additional syringes, which can lead to inadequate sealing or tissue damage due to inconsistent pressure.
Innovation Solution
A device with a barrel and plunger system that automatically adjusts cuff pressure using a biasing member, allowing fluid transfer and visual monitoring through a graduated scale, eliminating the need for pilot balloons and minimizing user workload.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual palpation of pilot balloon is used to check cuff pressure, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision and reliability are insufficient due to subjective evaluation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical palpation method with a pressure-sensitive indicator system that automatically displays cuff pressure through fluid communication, eliminating subjective tactile evaluation while maintaining relatively simple device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a pressure-sensitive indicator as an intermediary between the cuff pressure and the user, allowing objective visual assessment of pressure levels without direct manual palpation of the pilot balloon
2Productivity
If manual fluid transfer is used to adjust cuff pressure, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity is reduced due to high user workload and time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables automatic self-regulation of cuff pressure through the interaction of the pressure-sensitive indicator and fluid transfer mechanism, reducing the need for continuous manual monitoring and adjustment by healthcare providers
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure-sensitive indicator provides real-time visual feedback on cuff pressure levels, allowing users to make informed adjustments and maintain pressure within acceptable ranges more efficiently
3Ease of operation
If additional syringes are used for compressed air provision, then the adaptability is increased, but the ease of operation is reduced due to frequent disengagement and re-engagement requiring user training and increasing error risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the fluid transfer mechanism directly into the device structure, combining the syringe function with the pressure regulation system to eliminate repeated connection and disconnection operations while maintaining the ability to adjust pressure levels
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 provides precise, automatic regulation of cuff pressure within safe limits, reducing the risk of tracheal damage and discomfort by enabling visual tracking and adjustment of pressure, thus enhancing patient safety and user efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
one or more biasing member adapted to bias the plunger towards said passage
Data Source
Figure 1(a)~1(b)
Figure 2(a)~2(b)
Figure 3(a)~3(b)
AI summary
The present invention proposes a device (100) for regulating cuff pressure in endotracheal tubes, comprising a barrel (10) for guiding a plunger (20), the plunger (20) being adapted to travel along a main longitudinal axis (A) of said barrel, thereby defining a cavity (C) with variable volume within the barrel, the device (100) further comprises a passage (11) adapted to allow fluid transfer communication to and from the cavity (C), and one or more biasing member (30) adapted to bias the plunger (20) towards said passage (11).