Handheld Imaging Adapter With Guided Wound and Stoma Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for patients to capture images of their own wound or stoma sites are hindered by difficulties in camera positioning, resulting in poor image quality, and existing equipment is bulky and inconvenient, leading to low adherence in image capturing and transmission to healthcare professionals.
Innovation Solution
An adapter for a handheld device with a wall structure and fixation mechanism that supports a portable unit with a camera and monitor, featuring a marker for guiding camera positioning and digital image processing to ensure high-quality image capture, and optional audio/video instructions for user guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If patients use handheld devices to capture images of their own wound or stoma sites, then image capture accessibility is improved, but image quality deteriorates due to difficulties in camera positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized adapter as an intermediary device between the patient and the handheld imaging device. This adapter includes a camera positioning structure with a camera holder that positions the camera at a predetermined distance and angle from the wound site, and a mirror that reflects the image to the patient's view. This intermediary structure enables patients to capture high-quality images independently without requiring professional assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter fixes critical imaging parameters including camera-to-wound distance, camera angle, and viewing angle through its structural design. The camera positioning structure maintains a predetermined distance between the camera lens and the wound site, while the mirror is positioned at a specific angle to reflect the captured image into the patient's field of view. These parameter changes ensure consistent, high-quality imaging.
2Measurement precision
If dedicated camera positioning equipment is developed to improve image quality, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed to be compatible with various handheld imaging devices including smartphones and tablets, making it a universal solution. The adapter integrates multiple functions: camera positioning, image reflection via mirror, and stable mounting structure, all in one device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate components while maintaining high imaging quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter incorporates a flexible mounting structure that can adapt to different handheld device sizes and shapes. The camera holder and positioning structure are designed with flexibility to accommodate various device form factors while maintaining precise camera positioning, thereby reducing complexity compared to rigid, custom-built solutions.
3Measurement precision
If patients are required to bring worn ostomy wafers or wound sites to physicians for examination, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and convenience increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter enables patients to perform self-examination by capturing high-quality images of their wound sites or worn ostomy wafers at home. The device allows patients to independently position the camera, view the captured image through the mirror reflection, and assess their condition without requiring travel to healthcare facilities. This self-service capability eliminates time loss and inconvenience while maintaining examination accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter creates accurate visual copies of wound sites or worn ostomy wafers through the camera imaging system. The captured images serve as faithful representations that can be examined by patients and shared with healthcare providers, replacing the need for physical transport of patients or samples while preserving examination quality.
Data Source
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AI summary
An adapter for a handheld imaging device for capturing and digitally storing images of a site selected among a wound area at a body portion of a patient, a skin area surrounding a stoma projecting from a body portion of a patient, a fistula at a patient's skin, and a worn wafer of an ostomy system is disclosed. The adapter comprises a wall structure for supporting a portable unit, such as a camera, monitor, and controller of the handheld device, and a fixation structure for releasably securing the portable unit to the wall structure. At least a portion of a back face of the wall structure is permanently inclined or tiltable relative to a front face of the wall structure.