Implanted Access Port Locator With Ultrasonic Position Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for locating and accessing implanted access ports are complex and require specialized training, making it difficult for patients and non-clinical caregivers to accurately identify and administer medications without risking contamination or complications.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a locator assembly that uses ultrasonic sensors to differentiate material densities of the access port components, providing tactile, visual, or audible feedback to guide users in locating and accessing the port, including integration with a base plate for medication delivery devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual palpation is used to locate the access port, then the method is simple and requires no additional devices, but the location accuracy is insufficient and requires specialized training
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical palpation method with an automated sensor-based detection system. Sensors (such as capacitive, inductive, or optical sensors) are integrated into a locating device that automatically detects and identifies the access port's position, eliminating the need for trained manual palpation while significantly improving location accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary locating device that acts as a mediator between the user and the access port. This device includes sensors, processors, and output mechanisms that translate the complex task of port location into a simple user interaction, where the device autonomously performs the detection and guides the user to the correct location through visual or tactile feedback.
2Reliability
If specialized training is provided for port access, then the reliability of medication administration improves, but the ease of operation decreases for patients and caregivers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables patients and caregivers to independently locate and access the port without requiring specialized medical training. The integrated sensor system automatically detects the port position, and the device provides step-by-step guidance through visual displays or tactile feedback, allowing users to perform the procedure themselves with high reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates real-time feedback mechanisms that guide the user during the port access process. Sensors continuously monitor the device's position relative to the port and provide visual, auditory, or tactile feedback to indicate when the correct location is reached, ensuring reliable medication administration while maintaining ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If the access port is made easily accessible, then the ease of operation improves, but the risk of contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions to ensure a sterile environment before port access. The device includes integrated sterilization mechanisms (such as UV-C lighting or chemical sterilization) that automatically activate before the needle insertion process, pre-sterilizing the access area to eliminate contamination risks while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements protective measures in advance to prevent contamination. This includes integrated sterile barriers, sealed compartments, and automated sterilization protocols that are activated before the port is accessed, creating a protective buffer against potential contamination while allowing easy user operation.
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 less-trained users to intuitively and safely locate and access implanted access ports, reducing the risk of contamination and complications, allowing broader patient autonomy in medication administration.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured to sense an aspect of the access port, wherein the aspect includes at least two different material densities of the access port
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for use with an access port implanted in a living body includes a locator assembly. The locator assembly includes at least one port sensor configured to sense an aspect of the access port, at least one skin sensor configured to sense a proximity of the apparatus to a skin of the living body, and a controller configured to determine a location of the access port based on the aspect sensed by the at least one port sensor, where the controller instructs the at least one port sensor to sense the aspect based on the proximity of the apparatus to the skin as sensed by the at least one skin sensor. The locator assembly also includes an output device configured to provide user feedback, and the controller is further configured to instruct the output device to provide the feedback based on the determined location of the access port.