Blood Pressure Cuff Valve-Chamber Assembly for Controlled Inflation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional blood pressure monitoring systems cause discomfort, limb edema, and noise issues due to manual or motorized inflation methods, and gas canister handling is hazardous and lacks flow control.
Innovation Solution
A valve-chamber assembly that allows controlled gas flow from a gas reservoir to an inflatable cuff, enabling safe and comfortable blood pressure measurement with a user-friendly interface for inflation and deflation, using a valve assembly with a motor and actuator to manage gas flow and pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual inflation bulb is used, then device complexity is reduced, but inflation rate control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical inflation bulb system with an automated motor-driven pump system. The motor (202) drives the pump (204) through a transmission mechanism (206), eliminating manual operation while providing precise electronic control of the inflation rate through controller (128) that regulates motor speed and pump operation.
2Extent of automation
If motorized pump is used, then inflation automation is improved, but auditory noise increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements rapid inflation followed by sustained deflation phases. The motor (202) quickly inflates the cuff (20) to the required pressure, then the valve (208) rapidly deflates it, minimizing the duration of motor operation and associated noise. This allows blood pressure measurement during the quieter deflation phase rather than during prolonged inflation.
3Extent of automation
If motor is used for inflation, then inflation automation is improved, but electrical noise in sensor signals increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor (202) performs rapid inflation in a short time interval, then stops operation during the measurement phase. This minimizes the duration of electrical noise generation from the motor and pump, allowing Korotkoff sound detection during the quieter deflation phase when the motor is not operating.
4Speed
If gas canister with threaded release valve is used, then gas flow speed is improved, but safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a controlled valve system (208) as an intermediary between the gas source and the cuff (20). The valve assembly (206) with controlled valve (208) regulates gas flow from the pump (204), providing precise flow control and safety mechanisms including pressure sensors (124, 212) and controller (128) that prevent overpressurization and enable safe operation.
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 provides a safe, comfortable, and efficient method for blood pressure measurement by controlling gas flow, reducing noise and discomfort, and ensuring reliable data collection without the need for motorized pumps or hazardous gas handling.
Implementation Method 1
Gas canisters, which are frequently used to supply gas in a fast and efficient manner
Data Source
AI summary
A blood pressure measurement system is provided that includes an inflatable cuff, a valve assembly and chamber assembly. The chamber assembly can house a gas canister for providing gas to the inflatable cuff. The valve assembly can include a valve having a high pressure cavity, a low pressure cavity, and a channel providing a gas pathway between the high pressure cavity and the low pressure cavity. The valve assembly can further include a channel cover and spring in the high pressure cavity. The spring can exert a force on the channel cover to create a seal between the high pressure cavity and the channel. The valve assembly can further include a rod extending through the channel and exerting a force on the channel cover to create a gas pathway between the high pressure cavity and the channel.