Implantable Micro-Sensor for Tissue Nitrogen and Microbubble Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing diving technologies lack precise methods to measure tissue-dissolved nitrogen concentration and monitor microbubble formation, leading to uncertainty in decompression procedures and potential risks of Caisson disease, especially in challenging environments or emergencies.
Innovation Solution
Implantable micro-sensors with a hydrophobic liquid-filled micro-chamber capsule and a measurement unit that detect and quantify inert gas concentration and microbubble formation by measuring physical changes in the hydrophobic liquid, using techniques like interferometry or electrical capacitance, and transmit data wirelessly to a wearable monitor for real-time diving recommendations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If divers use traditional diving charts for decompression, then the procedure is simple to follow, but the measurement precision of tissue-dissolved nitrogen concentration is insufficient leading to uncertainty
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/diving chart-based decompression planning with an optical measurement system. The micro-sensor uses interferometry to detect refractive index changes in a hydrophobic liquid caused by nitrogen dissolution, providing precise real-time concentration data instead of relying on approximate timing charts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hydrophobic liquid as an intermediary medium between the tissue environment and the measurement system. Nitrogen from the tissue dissolves into this liquid, causing measurable physical changes (refractive index, density) that can be detected by the interferometric sensor, thereby translating biological gas exchange into measurable physical signals.
2Productivity
If divers ascend quickly to reduce time exposure, then productivity increases, but the risk of bubble formation and Caisson disease increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a real-time feedback system where the micro-sensor continuously monitors nitrogen concentration and microbubble formation in the tissue, and this data is transmitted to the diver's device to dynamically adjust decompression recommendations. This allows divers to make informed decisions about ascent rate based on actual physiological state rather than fixed conservative schedules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables preliminary detection of microbubble formation before they grow into dangerous sizes. By monitoring for early signs of bubble nucleation through the sensor, the system can alert divers to slow their ascent or perform safety stops before significant bubble formation occurs, preventing Caisson disease rather than reacting to its symptoms.
3Reliability
If divers follow conservative decompression schedules to ensure safety, then reliability improves, but the duration of action and time required for ascent increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static, pre-calculated decompression tables to a dynamic system that continuously adapts decompression recommendations based on real-time sensor data. The decompression plan is no longer fixed but evolves with the diver's actual nitrogen load and bubble formation risk, allowing optimization of ascent time based on current physiological conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of decompression from fixed time-depth profiles to variable parameters based on measured nitrogen concentration and bubble risk. The system adjusts ascent rate, stop depth, and stop duration dynamically based on sensor readings, replacing conservative fixed schedules with optimized variable schedules that maintain safety while reducing unnecessary time loss.
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
Provides precise, real-time monitoring of nitrogen concentration and microbubble formation, enhancing diver safety by dynamically adjusting decompression plans based on actual tissue gas levels and environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the property of nitrogen and other inert gases to preferentially absorb into hydrophobic environments
Implementation Method 2
using techniques like interferometry or electrical capacitance
Implementation Method 3
using techniques like interferometry or electrical capacitance
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and devices including implantable micro-sensors used to detect tissue-dissolved inert gas and to detect microbubble formation to avoid Caisson disease are described. The disclosed methods and devices are based on measuring the refractive index changes in hydrophobic liquids after absorbing an inert gas such as nitrogen. The changes in the refractive index are based on implementing one of an interferometry, optical microcavity resonance shift, a photonic crystal resonance, a beam deflection, a resonance tuning or detuning, an amplitude change, or an intensity change method.