Deflectable Stylet Imaging System for Confined Space Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiberoptic viewing devices for confined spaces, such as the respiratory tract, are complex, expensive, and inflexible, limiting their accessibility and usability, especially during procedures like endotracheal intubation, which requires adjustable and cost-effective illumination and visualization.
Innovation Solution
A stylet-based imaging system with a deflectable section and an image acquisition element, combined with an illumination source, allowing for adjustable visualization of confined spaces through a flexible and cost-effective solution that includes wireless communication and a malleable rod for curvature adjustment, enabling precise visualization during intubation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fiberoptic viewing devices are used for intubation, then visualization of confined spaces is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the imaging function from a complex integrated fiberoptic scope and places a simple camera at the distal end of a stylet. This separates the visualization function from the insertion tool, allowing use of a simple stylet structure with an added imaging component, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining visualization capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a digital camera to capture images that are then transmitted to an external display, creating a visual copy of the internal airway structures. This allows complex visualization to be achieved through a simple camera sensor rather than requiring complex fiberoptic bundles, reducing device complexity
2Measurement precision
If fiberoptic viewing devices are used for intubation, then visualization of confined spaces is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable stylet with an integrated camera that can be discarded after a single use. This eliminates the need for expensive, reusable fiberoptic scopes while providing adequate visualization for the procedure. The low cost of the disposable unit makes the system economically viable
Solution Approach 2:
By extracting the imaging function to a separate camera component rather than integrating it into a complex fiberoptic scope, the patent allows use of inexpensive camera modules and stylet materials, significantly reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining visualization capability
3Measurement precision
If standard fiberoptic scopes are used, then visualization is provided, but flexibility and adjustability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the stylet dynamically adjustable by allowing the operator to bend the stylet to different curvatures and angles during the procedure. This dynamic adaptability allows the device to conform to different patient anatomies and procedural requirements, enhancing versatility while maintaining a simple, flexible structure
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 low-cost, flexible, and adjustable means for visualizing confined spaces, enhancing the accuracy and ease of intubation procedures while being adaptable for various applications beyond medical use.
Implementation Method 1
application of opposing forces to the first and second pressure receiving elements produces a deflection in the deflectable section
Implementation Method 2
an image acquisition element disposed toward the distal end of the stylet
Data Source
AI summary
An intubation device and method of use to intubate a subject. The intubation device includes a distally deflectable and proximally flexible stylet having a malleable rod that is removable from its housing in the stylet. The malleable rod and its housing fit together to prevent movement of the malleable rod within the stylet during use. The stylet further includes a flexible proximal portion having a predetermined shape defined by the malleable rod when inserted in the stylet through a proximally located lumen opening, and a distal tip, the distal tip being capable of deflection by use of a proximally located actuator.