Multi-Orientation Finger Cuff Connector for Accurate BP Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blood pressure measurement systems using volume clamping face interference from mechanical forces exerted by cables, affecting the fit and accuracy of finger cuff pressure measurements due to the remote location of the pressure generating and regulating system.
Innovation Solution
A connector system for a blood pressure measurement system that allows the pressure generating and regulating system to be pneumatically and electrically connected to the finger cuff in multiple orientations, using mechanical key features and electrical connector pads to ensure alignment and contact, reducing mechanical interference and enhancing flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the pressure generating and regulating system is located remotely from the finger cuff, then the system structure is simplified and easier to manufacture, but mechanical forces from the cable interfere with the fit between the finger cuff and patient's finger, reducing measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate half-portions that connect together, with the first half portion attached to the cable and the second half portion attached to the finger cuff. This segmentation allows the pneumatic and electrical connections to be made separately while maintaining a compact connection point at the finger cuff, reducing cable interference with the fit.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector acts as an intermediary component between the remote pressure generating system and the finger cuff. It provides both pneumatic connection (via air pressure line) and electrical connection (via electrical contacts) in a single integrated component, allowing the cable to be routed away from the finger while maintaining reliable connections.
2Ease of manufacture
If a single orientation connector is used, then the alignment is simple and manufacturing is easier, but the system lacks flexibility to accommodate variations in patient position and equipment placement
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates asymmetric mechanical key features (such as keys and keyways) that allow the two half-portions to connect in multiple discrete orientations (e.g., 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°). The asymmetric design ensures proper alignment of pneumatic and electrical connections while enabling flexibility in installation orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a fixed single-orientation design to a multi-orientation dynamic connection system. The mechanical keys guide the connection into proper alignment while allowing rotation to multiple valid orientations, providing adaptability without compromising connection reliability.
3Manufacturing precision
If mechanical keys are added to the connector, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical keys are designed with asymmetric geometries that provide unique alignment references for each orientation. The keys fit into corresponding keyways on the mating connector half, ensuring precise angular positioning while maintaining a relatively simple overall connector structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical key features serve multiple functions: they provide alignment references, prevent misalignment, enable multiple valid orientations, and guide the insertion process. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate alignment mechanisms, keeping the overall device complexity manageable.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a connector for a blood pressure measurement system that includes a pressure generating and regulating system and a finger cuff, in which the connector comprises: a first half portion pneumatically and electrically connected to the pressure generating and regulating system; and a second half portion fixedly attached to the finger cuff, wherein the first half portion and the second half portion are connectable in two or more orientations, and wherein the pressure generating and regulating system and the finger cuff are pneumatically and electrically connected when the first half portion and the second half portion are connected.