Flexible Wound Measurement Device for Subsurface Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical measuring devices are inadequate for accurately assessing the extent of subsurface wounds, particularly those with irregular shapes and subdermal voids, as they fail to provide comprehensive three-dimensional modeling and are not comfortable for patients.
Innovation Solution
A flexible wound measurement device with a bending strip and various end configurations, including guide and measuring strips, allows for multiple linear and depth measurements to generate two or three-dimensional models of wounds, ensuring patient comfort and accurate monitoring of healing progress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional rigid measuring devices are used for subsurface wounds, then measurement structure is simple, but measurement precision is insufficient for irregular subsurface shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring device is divided into multiple sections (first section and second section) that can be independently positioned and measured. Each section can be inserted into different portions of the subsurface wound to capture measurements of irregular shapes, allowing the device to adapt to complex wound geometries while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from traditional two-dimensional surface measurements to three-dimensional subsurface measurements by inserting measuring sections into the depth of the wound. This enables accurate capture of subsurface voids and irregular geometries that extend below the skin surface, significantly improving measurement precision for undermined wounds.
2Measurement precision
If multiple measuring sections are inserted into subsurface wounds, then measurement precision improves, but patient comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Different sections of the measuring device are designed with different properties suitable for their specific functions. The first section has a first end adapted for insertion into one portion of the wound, while the second section has a second end adapted for another portion. Each section can be optimized for minimal tissue disruption while maintaining measurement accuracy, reducing overall patient discomfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring device allows for dynamic positioning and adjustment of multiple sections within the wound. The sections can be inserted to different depths and positions based on the specific wound geometry, enabling precise measurement while minimizing the number of sections that need to be inserted simultaneously, thereby improving patient comfort.
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive wound measurements are taken for 3D modeling, then measurement precision improves, but time required for measurement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wound measurement process is segmented into discrete sections that can be measured independently and systematically. By dividing the subsurface wound into manageable sections with first and second measuring sections, the device enables methodical data collection that can be efficiently processed into a complete three-dimensional model, reducing overall measurement time while maintaining precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A subsurface wound measuring device and method are provided for measuring a subsurface wound or cavity of a patient, the device including a flexible strip having a first and second section, said sections having a first and second ends respectively with an intermediate bend being located between the first and second ends. The first end is adapted for being located internally to a patient, the second end being adapted for being located externally to the patient. The first and second sections have generally concave shaped cross-sections with measuring indicia being located along at least one of the sections. The device also optionally includes a measuring strip and a receiver mounted on the second end for receiving the measuring strip, where the measuring strip and the flexible strip form complementary structure for measuring a subsurface wound or cavity.