Hot-Swappable Catheter Input Module for Continuous Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current catheter monitoring systems require downtime and additional costs to add or replace catheter input modules, and there is a risk of hardware damage during power-on installations, as they do not support hot-swapping of additional catheter inputs during studies.
Innovation Solution
A hot-swappable catheter input module system that allows connection and disconnection of catheter input modules during a study without powering down the system, with protective measures against excessive current and electrostatic discharge, and a design that separates signal and power connections to prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the system requires powering down to add or replace catheter input modules, then hardware damage is prevented, but system downtime increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting the connection status of CIM modules before power transitions occur. The processor identifies when a CIM is connected or disconnected and proactively manages power states to enable hot-swapping while preventing damage, allowing module changes without full system shutdown
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts power states based on real-time CIM connection status. The processor monitors CIM presence and dynamically transitions power states during operation, enabling flexible module addition/removal without requiring static system shutdown, thus maintaining productivity while ensuring hardware safety
2Productivity
If the system allows hot-swapping of catheter input modules, then system availability and productivity improve, but risk of hardware damage from accidental power-on connections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the processor continuously monitors CIM connection status and provides real-time information about module presence. This feedback loop enables the system to detect when CIMs are connected or disconnected and respond appropriately, allowing hot-swapping operations while preventing hardware damage through active status monitoring and control
Solution Approach 2:
The processor acts as an intermediary between the power system and CIM modules during hot-swapping operations. It mediates the connection process by detecting CIM status and controlling power transitions, serving as a protective layer that enables module changes while preventing direct harmful interactions between power circuits and connected/disconnected modules
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional catheter inputs are needed during a study, then measurement capability improves, but system replacement cost and downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the catheter input functionality into separate, independently replaceable CIM modules. Each CIM represents a discrete functional unit that can be added or removed without affecting the core system, enabling flexible adaptation of measurement capability during studies while maintaining continuous operation and avoiding full system replacement
Data Source
AI summary
Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a catheter monitoring system including a catheter input module (CIM) adapted to be connected to at least one catheter, an amplifier base, and a host adapted to process data from the amplifier base. The CIM is adapted to be connected to an amplifier base during a study. The amplifier base is adapted to receive data from the CIM when the CIM is connected to the amplifier base.