Fluid Connection Indicators for Targeted Temperature Management Pads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current targeted temperature management (TTM) systems face challenges in quickly and accurately connecting fluid delivery lines, particularly for inexperienced clinicians under time constraints, due to the complexity of fluid delivery lines and connectors.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of indicators, such as chemical indicators and integrated light-emitting diode (LED) modules, within the pads and fluid delivery lines to visually confirm accurate fluid connections, ensuring proper alignment and function of temperature-controlled fluid pathways.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fluid delivery lines and connectors are used in TTM systems, then temperature control capability is improved, but connection accuracy and speed deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color-coded identification systems on fluid delivery line connectors and corresponding ports. Different colors indicate different fluid pathways (e.g., supply vs. return lines), enabling clinicians to quickly and accurately match connectors to the correct ports without confusion, thereby improving connection speed and accuracy while maintaining multiple fluid delivery capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces visual indicators as an intermediary element between the clinician and the fluid delivery system. These indicators (such as colored bands, labels, or illuminated markers) serve as a communication bridge that guides proper connection without requiring the clinician to memorize complex connection protocols, thus resolving the contradiction between system complexity and ease of operation
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fluid delivery lines and connectors are used in TTM systems, then temperature control capability is improved, but time consumption deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Color-coded connectors and ports enable rapid visual identification and matching of fluid delivery lines during patient setup. This eliminates time-consuming verification steps and reduces connection errors, allowing clinicians to quickly establish proper fluid pathways even when multiple lines are required for different body regions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements pre-labeled and pre-colored connectors that are prepared in advance with clear identification markings. This preliminary preparation of visual cues allows for immediate correct connection during the procedure, eliminating delays that would occur from trial-and-error connection attempts or consultation with reference materials
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
Enables quick and accurate confirmation of fluid connections, reducing errors and improving efficiency in TTM procedures by providing visual feedback on fluid flow and temperature control, thus enhancing patient care under time-sensitive conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The CoCl2 is provided in an amount sufficient to impart a discernable pink color to the supply fluid when solvated in the supply fluid with the charging of the conduit layer with the supply fluid
Implementation Method 2
The fluorophore is provided in an amount sufficient to impart a discernable fluorescence to the supply fluid when solvated in the supply fluid with the charging of the conduit layer with the supply fluid
Implementation Method 3
at least the secondary FDL outlet connector includes an integrated light-emitting diode ("LED") module. The LED module includes one or more LEDs configured to illuminate the supply fluid as it flows through the secondary FDL outlet connector
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are indicators for confirming fluid connections in systems, pads, and methods thereof for targeted temperature management. For example, a pad can include a multilayered pad body, a pad inlet connector, a pad outlet connector, and an indicator for visual indication of charging a conduit layer of the pad body with a supply fluid and confirmation of accurate fluid connections. The conduit layer includes one or more conduits for conveying a temperature-controlled fluid as the supply fluid from a hydraulic system of a control module as well as convey a return fluid back to the hydraulic system. A thermally conductive adhesive layer over the conduit layer is for placement on a portion of a patient's body. The pad inlet connector includes a pad inlet for charging the conduit layer with the supply fluid. The pad outlet connector includes a pad outlet for discharging the return fluid from the conduit layer.