Hall Sensor Syringe Volume Monitoring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for delivering contrast media in medical procedures, such as angiography, face challenges in precisely targeting specific sites within the body while minimizing systemic toxicity and excessive distribution, leading to complications like Contrast Induced Nephropathy, which lacks effective treatment options.
Innovation Solution
A syringe system equipped with Hall sensors and magnets that monitor and control the delivery of contrast media, allowing for precise measurement and modulation of the volume injected, using a modulator mechanism with a vane-hub structure and braking system to optimize delivery and reduce systemic effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If contrast media is delivered to target sites in medical procedures, then diagnostic or therapeutic effectiveness is improved, but systemic toxicity and excessive distribution increase leading to complications like Contrast Induced Nephropathy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs sensors (such as Hall sensors, optical sensors, or capacitive sensors) that provide real-time feedback on the position of the plunger and the volume of contrast media remaining in the syringe. This feedback enables the control system to precisely regulate the delivery process, ensuring that the exact required volume is administered to the target site while preventing over-injection and systemic distribution, thereby reducing toxicity risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical volume measurement methods with electronic sensing systems. Hall sensors detect the position of a magnet attached to the plunger, optical sensors measure light transmission through the syringe barrel to determine fluid volume, and capacitive sensors detect changes in electrical capacitance corresponding to fluid level. This substitution enables more precise and reliable volume control compared to mechanical methods.
2Reliability
If the volume of contrast media injected is increased to ensure adequate coverage of the target site, then diagnostic or therapeutic effectiveness is improved, but the risk of Contrast Induced Nephropathy and other complications increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors the volume of contrast media delivered through sensors and compares it against the prescribed dosage. This feedback mechanism allows for precise termination of injection at the exact required volume, ensuring adequate target site coverage while preventing excessive administration that would increase the risk of nephropathy.
Solution Approach 2:
The syringe system incorporates integrated sensors and control mechanisms that automatically monitor and regulate the injection process without requiring constant manual intervention. The system self-regulates the delivery volume based on real-time sensor data, ensuring precise dosage control and preventing over-injection that could lead to nephropathy.
3Device complexity
If traditional syringe systems are used without volume monitoring, then device simplicity is maintained, but precise measurement and control of injected volume cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple mechanical volume indication methods with electronic sensing systems. Hall sensors use magnetic field detection to determine plunger position, optical sensors use light transmission measurements to calculate fluid volume, and capacitive sensors detect electrical field changes corresponding to fluid level. These electronic methods provide superior measurement precision while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields, optical fields, or electrical fields as intermediaries between the plunger position and the measurement system. Hall sensors detect the magnetic field generated by a magnet on the plunger, optical sensors measure light transmission through the fluid, and capacitive sensors detect changes in electrical capacitance. These field-based intermediaries enable non-contact, precise volume measurement without complex mechanical linkages.
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 enables accurate and controlled delivery of contrast media, reducing the risk of Contrast Induced Nephropathy by minimizing unnecessary media distribution, providing real-time volume measurement, and alerting operators to maximum dose limits, thus enhancing procedural safety and efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
at least one Hall sensor disposed within the shaft; and at least one magnet fixed proximate the syringe housing
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
An apparatus has a syringe housing. A plunger has a shaft, wherein the plunger is slidably received within the syringe housing between a first and second position. A Hall sensor is disposed within the shaft and a magnet is fixed proximate the syringe housing.