Endotracheal Intubation Arm Using TCP Tendons for Airway Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endotracheal intubation methods require varying levels of training, use outdated tools, and struggle with anatomical differences, leading to difficulties in safely and reliably placing the tracheal tube.
Innovation Solution
An automated endotracheal intubation device utilizing a flexible tube and a deployment arm with twisted and coiled polymer (TCP) tendons that controllably expand and contract upon heat application, combined with a base system and control mechanisms for precise navigation and stabilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If automated endotracheal intubation device with TCP tendons is used, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical actuation systems with twisted and coiled polymer (TCP) tendons that convert thermal energy directly into mechanical motion. This substitution simplifies the control mechanism by eliminating complex motors, gears, and linkages, while enabling automated navigation and deployment of the endotracheal tube through thermally-responsive actuation of the TCP tendons.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in temperature as a control parameter to actuate the TCP tendons. By applying heat locally to specific sections of the deployment arm, the system can dynamically change the shape and position of the arm segments, enabling precise navigation through the airway without requiring complex mechanical control systems.
2Reliability
If precise control over deployment arm movement is achieved, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms including cameras and sensors that provide real-time visual and positional information about the deployment arm's location and orientation within the airway. This feedback is processed by a control system that adjusts the thermal actuation of TCP tendons to achieve precise positioning and reliable navigation, ensuring accurate tube placement while maintaining a relatively simple device architecture.
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
Facilitates safer, more reliable, and efficient intubation by enabling precise control over the deployment arm's movement, reducing the risk of complications and improving success rates.
Implementation Method 1
an end effector coupled to the distal end of the deployment arm, the end effector including one or more twisted and coiled polymer (TCP) tendons configured to controllably expand and contract upon application of heat
Data Source
AI summary
Various implementations include an automated endotracheal intubation device, including: a flexible tube sized to be advanced within a patient's airway; a base system; and a deployment arm having a proximal end coupled to the base system and a distal end spaced apart from the proximal end, the deployment arm including: at least one arm segment coupled to and extending from the base system, the at least one arm segment defining a channel within which the flexible tube is disposed; and an end effector coupled to the distal end of the deployment arm, the end effector including one or more twisted and coiled polymer (TCP) tendons configured to controllably expand and contract upon application of heat.