Head Fixation Assembly with Light Transmitters for Multi-Plane Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current positioning apparatuses for head and neck assessment or intervention lack the ability to accurately fix a patient's head in reference to multiple desired planes, limiting their effectiveness in procedures such as ultrasound imaging and interventions.
Innovation Solution
A positioning apparatus comprising a base, a head fixation assembly with upwardly extending lateral ends and ear aligning members, and light transmitters that project reference planes to define precise alignment points, allowing for the adjustment of the head's position relative to multiple anatomical planes, including the Frankfort horizontal and medial planes, to facilitate accurate medical device placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a positioning apparatus uses a single reference plane for head fixation, then the structure remains simple, but the positioning accuracy for multiple anatomical planes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning apparatus divides the head fixation system into multiple independent reference plane components (first reference plane with Frankfort horizontal plane, second reference plane with coronal plane, third reference plane with sagittal plane). Each reference plane can be independently adjusted and positioned, allowing precise alignment with different anatomical planes of the head and neck without requiring a complete structural redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus transitions from a single-plane reference system to a multi-dimensional reference system by introducing multiple reference planes that intersect at specific pivot points. This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous reference to multiple anatomical planes (horizontal, coronal, sagittal) while maintaining structural coherence through the pivot point connections.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the head fixation assembly is made rigid for stable positioning, then positioning stability improves, but adaptability to different anatomical configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The head fixation assembly incorporates dynamic elements including adjustable reference planes that can be positioned at different angles and heights, and pivot points that allow rotational adjustment. These dynamic features enable the rigid framework to adapt to various anatomical configurations while maintaining stable positioning once configured.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus allows modification of key parameters such as the angle and position of reference planes, the location of pivot points, and the orientation of light transmitters. These parameter changes enable the system to accommodate different anatomical variations (e.g., different Frankfort horizontal plane orientations, coronal plane positions) while preserving overall structural stability.
3Measurement precision
If light transmitters are positioned far from the main body for better reference plane definition, then alignment precision improves, but device complexity and adjustment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus introduces pivot points as intermediary connection elements between the main body and the light transmitters/reference planes. These pivot points serve as fulcrums that allow the light transmitters to be positioned at optimal distances for precise alignment while maintaining a manageable structural configuration that can be adjusted through rotational movement around the pivot points rather than requiring complex linear adjustments.
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 precise alignment of the head and neck for various medical assessments and interventions, improving the accuracy and efficiency of procedures like ultrasound imaging and interventions by providing a stable and adjustable framework for medical devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first light transmitter for projecting a first light beam, configured at the second end of the first connector, such that the first light beam defines a second reference plane passing through the first pivot point
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a positioning apparatus for head and neck assessment comprising a base, a head fixation assembly including a main body, a guide and an ear aligning member, a first connector pivotally connected to a lateral end of the main body, a first light transmitter, and a holder assembly including an adjustable first stand secured to the base and a holder for holding a medical device for the assessment or intervention, pivotally connected to the first stand.