Disposable Video Laryngoscope Blade with Ball Detent Locking
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing video laryngoscope systems face issues such as twisted imager shafts during insertion, stuck components due to incorrect alignment, damaged cables upon removal, and difficulties in disinfecting the imagers.
Innovation Solution
A video laryngoscope system with a disposable blade and a design featuring a ball plunger and detent mechanism to prevent sticking, combined with a flexible cable and a finger loop to prevent kinking, and a separable imager module for easy disinfection and correct alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the imager shaft is inserted into the blade element, then the system becomes functional, but the imager shaft may become twisted or stuck due to incorrect alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The imager shaft and blade element are designed with asymmetric geometric features including protrusions and corresponding recesses. This asymmetry ensures that the imager shaft can only be inserted into the blade element in the correct orientation, preventing twisted or misaligned insertion while maintaining ease of operation through a simple snap-fit mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If the imager shaft is pulled out of the single-use blade after use, then the components can be separated, but the cable may become damaged
Solution Approach 1:
A release mechanism is pre-configured in the connection between the imager shaft and blade element. This mechanism allows the user to easily separate the components after use by actuating the release, which safely disengages the connection without subjecting the cable to damaging forces. The cable is protected within the imager shaft housing during this separation process.
3Loss of substance
If the imager module is made reusable, then cost is reduced, but disinfection becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The laryngoscope system is divided into two segments: a reusable imager module and a single-use disposable blade element. The disposable blade element can be discarded after one use, eliminating the need for complex disinfection processes. The reusable imager module requires minimal cleaning and maintains its functionality without requiring sterilization, thus reducing overall disposal costs while simplifying maintenance.
4Reliability
If the blade handle is hollow to mate with the longitudinal member, then connection is secured, but moisture or fluids may enter and damage the imager module
Solution Approach 1:
A flange is introduced as an intermediary component between the hollow blade handle and the imager module. This flange creates a barrier that prevents moisture or fluids from entering the hollow portion and reaching the imager module. The flange maintains the secure connection while protecting the internal components from harmful fluid exposure.
Data Source
AI summary
An intubation instrument for intubating a patient's trachea including an imager module having a base unit with a finger loop and a longitudinal member attached to the distal end of the base unit, as well as a blade having a handle that is hollow and mates with the outer surface of the longitudinal member forming a male-female connection, the distal end of the blade projecting laterally therefrom, the distal end of the blade being insertable into a human during intubation.