Infusion Device Radiation Shielding with Segmented Base and Lid
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The administration of radiotherapy poses challenges due to potential radiation exposure for staff, necessitating effective monitoring and containment of radiation emissions during the delivery of radioisotope therapy.
Innovation Solution
Infusion devices designed with materials that absorb beta and gamma radiation emissions, featuring a base and lid configuration with polymeric materials like acrylic and metals such as lead, antimony, or bismuth, which allow for safe handling and administration of radioisotope therapy materials, including a port for infusion without removing the lid, and optional electronic devices for radiation monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional infusion devices are used for radioisotope therapy, then the administration process is simple, but staff are exposed to harmful radiation emissions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by incorporating radiation-absorbing materials (lead, tungsten, or depleted uranium) directly into the infusion device housing. The harmful radiation emissions from the radioisotope are absorbed and converted into harmless heat energy within the device structure, protecting staff while maintaining simple operation. The base and lid are designed with integrated radiation shielding layers that do not complicate the infusion process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining radiation-absorbing substances (metallic powders or dense plastics containing lead, tungsten, or depleted uranium) with standard medical-grade polymers. This creates a multi-layered housing structure where the inner layer absorbs radiation while the outer layer provides structural integrity and biocompatibility, resolving the contradiction between protection and simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If the lid is removed to access radioisotope therapy material, then infusion can be performed, but staff exposure to radiation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the device into a base and a removable lid that can be opened independently. The port is integrated into the base structure, allowing the lid to remain closed and provide radiation shielding while still enabling access to the radioisotope material through the port. This resolves the contradiction by allowing operational access without compromising protective shielding.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the port as an intermediary element that mediates between the need for access and the need for protection. The port allows fluid and material passage while the surrounding radiation-absorbing housing maintains shielding integrity. This enables infusion operations without requiring full lid removal, thus protecting staff from direct radiation exposure.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If radiation-absorbing materials are added to the infusion device, then staff protection improves, but device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing depleted uranium, which has a high density (19.1 g/cm³) and excellent radiation shielding properties. This allows for thinner shielding layers compared to traditional lead, reducing the overall weight of the device while maintaining effective radiation protection. The high density of the shielding material enables compact design without sacrificing protective capability.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the container is permanently coupled to the base, then radiation safety is maintained, but device flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the device into three main components: the base (with integrated port and radiation shielding), the container (for radioisotope material), and the lid. The container can be permanently coupled to the base for radiation safety, while the lid remains removable for access. This segmentation allows the system to maintain both radiation containment and operational flexibility.
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
These devices significantly reduce radiation exposure to staff, simplify the administration process, and enable consistent delivery of radioisotope therapy, allowing personnel to be closer to the patient during treatment while ensuring safe handling and effective treatment delivery.
Implementation Method 1
the base and the lid are configured to absorb beta radiation emissions from the radioisotope therapy material
Implementation Method 2
a second material comprising a metal to absorb the gamma ray emissions
Data Source
AI summary
Certain configurations of an infusion device are described. In some examples, the infusion device may comprise an enclosure that can absorb radiation from a radioisotope material within the enclosure. The enclosure can also be configured to permit administration of the radioisotope material within the enclosure to a human in need of treatment for a condition such as cancer.