Infant Head Positioning Aid with Neck Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Prematurely born infants face challenges with intraventricular hemorrhage, compromised cerebral blood flow, respiratory distress, and risk of dolichocephaly due to weak neck muscles and fragile skulls, with existing positioning methods being insecure and potentially damaging to their delicate skin.

Innovation Solution

A head positioning aid comprising a head positioning assistor and securing member to maintain the infant's head in a midline position, incorporating a neck support and breathable headwear with adjustable features to secure medical devices without tape, reducing head movement and promoting optimal cerebral blood flow and respiratory support.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If soft materials like towels are rolled and placed around the infant's head to prevent movement, then the infant's head positioning is improved, but the positioning is easily disrupted and requires frequent repositioning

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehead positioning stabilityVSAvoidfrequency of repositioning

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated head positioning device that includes head support, securing mechanisms, and positioning elements all in one unit, eliminating the need for separate towels and repositioning operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The device incorporates adjustable and removable components that allow dynamic adaptation to different infant sizes and positioning needs, while maintaining secure hold without requiring frequent adjustments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If medical tape is placed on the infant's face or scalp to secure medical devices, then the securing effectiveness is improved, but the infant's delicate skin is damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemedical device securingVSAvoidskin damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The head positioning device serves as an intermediary structure that secures medical devices through mechanical means rather than adhesive tape, eliminating direct contact between tape and the infant's skin

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the adhesive mechanical system (medical tape) with a mechanical constraint system (positioning device with securing elements) that achieves the same securing function without skin damage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If the infant is positioned in midline supine position with 30 degree incline, then the risk of intraventricular hemorrhage is reduced, but the infant requires constant monitoring and adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveintraventricular hemorrhage preventionVSAvoidmonitoring and adjustment time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The head positioning device is pre-configured with the correct 30-degree incline and midline alignment, eliminating the need for continuous monitoring and adjustment by healthcare providers

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10980659B2Head positioning aids for premature infants

Publication Date: 2021.04.20 TORTLE PRODUCTS LLC

AI summary

A head positioning aid includes at least one head positioning assistor and at least one securing member. Some head positioning aids include positioning members secured to a headwear member. The positioning members maintain an infant's head in midline. An optional cheek flap protects the skin on the face. An optional support member supports the neck and an open airway. Size adjustment members may also be used to secure and orient tubing for a nasal cannula.