Deformable Needle Insertion Training Kit with Anatomical Landmarks

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for practicing hypodermic needle insertion techniques lack effective visualization of anatomical landmarks, which can lead to inaccuracies in needle placement during training and actual procedures.

Innovation Solution

A kit and method utilizing a deformable needle receiving object with anatomical landmark indicia and needle insertion site indicia, such as a template, to guide proper needle insertion, including a pierceable housing and aids like templates with raised borders to simulate tissue manipulation and muscle bulging, facilitating accurate needle placement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional practice methods (oranges, grapefruits, or simple pads) are used for needle insertion training, then the training can be performed, but the anatomical landmark visualization is insufficient leading to inaccurate needle placement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveneedle placement accuracyVSAvoidanatomical landmark visualization
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a simplified copy of human anatomy through the anatomical model with surface features representing skin, subcutaneous tissue, and muscle layers. This copy includes printed anatomical landmarks and injection site indicators that replicate real anatomical references, allowing trainees to practice needle insertion with proper landmark visualization without using actual human subjects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs color-coded indicators to differentiate various anatomical structures and injection sites. The anatomical model uses distinct colors for skin, subcutaneous tissue, and muscle layers, with specifically colored indicators marking safe injection zones and anatomical landmarks, enhancing visual discrimination and accuracy for trainees.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

2Measurement precision

If real human subjects are used for needle insertion practice, then anatomical accuracy is maintained, but ethical concerns and safety risks arise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanatomical accuracyVSAvoidethical concerns and safety risks
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a simplified copy of human anatomy through the anatomical model with surface features representing skin, subcutaneous tissue, and muscle layers. This copy includes printed anatomical landmarks and injection site indicators that replicate real anatomical references, allowing trainees to practice needle insertion with proper landmark visualization without using actual human subjects.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The anatomical model is designed as a disposable, low-cost training aid that can be discarded after use. This eliminates the need for repeated use on the same model, ensuring hygiene and preventing contamination risks while providing unlimited practice opportunities through multiple single-use models.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Measurement precision

If detailed anatomical models are created to improve landmark visualization, then needle placement accuracy improves, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveneedle placement accuracyVSAvoidanatomical model complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The anatomical model is segmented into distinct functional layers (skin, subcutaneous tissue, muscle) represented by different materials and colors. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity in the manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses parameter changes in material properties (firmness, color, texture) to differentiate anatomical layers without adding structural complexity. The skin layer uses a softer material, while muscle layers use firmer materials, and color variations provide visual differentiation, all achievable through standard manufacturing techniques.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS7621749B2Kit, injectable object, aids and a method of using them for practicing hypodermic needle insertion techniques
Publication Date: 2009.11.24 WALLCUR LLC
  • US7621749B2 patent drawing
  • US7621749B2 patent drawing
  • US7621749B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A kit, a needle receiving object and aids, as well as a method of using them, are disclosed for practicing hypodermic needle insertion techniques. At least one aid is disclosed for use with a needle receiving object to facilitate practicing needle insertions. The aid includes at least one template having anatomical landmark indicia and needle insertion site indicia. The needle insertion site indicia is disposed within the confines of the landmark indicia, wherein the needle insertion site indicia serves as a guide for proper needle insertion.