Video Laryngoscope Screen Positioning for Maneuverability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing video laryngoscopes face challenges in maneuverability due to the high mass and bulk of video screens and supporting electronics, which disrupt the center of gravity, making them harder to handle, and positioning issues that hinder precise control and alternate viewing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A video laryngoscope design featuring a display screen assembly that extends perpendicular to the median plane, integrated with a grip portion intermediate the screen and insertion section, allowing for improved manual control and thumb-operable controls, reducing the need to adjust hand grip positions and enhancing ergonomic handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the video screen and supporting electronics are mounted at the proximal end of the laryngoscope handle, then video display functionality is achieved, but the center of gravity shifts outward making the device harder to manoeuvre
Solution Approach 1:
The display screen is repositioned from the proximal end of the handle to the distal end of the handle, changing its spatial dimension and location. This dimensional relocation moves the heavy components closer to the user's hand, restoring proper center of gravity positioning and improving maneuverability while preserving video display functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If the display screen is positioned at the proximal end of the handle, then video images can be displayed, but the overall device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display screen assembly is repositioned along the longitudinal axis of the handle from the proximal end to the distal end. This spatial rearrangement consolidates the device profile, reducing overall device size and bulk while maintaining video display capability through strategic placement near the blade assembly
3Volume of moving object
If the display screen is located distally on the handle close to the blade, then device size is reduced, but it obscures the user's grip around the blade
Solution Approach 1:
The display screen is positioned asymmetrically on the distal end of the handle, specifically on the lateral aspect rather than centrally. This asymmetric placement reduces device bulk while creating clear spatial separation between the display assembly and the grip region, allowing users to form proper grips around the blade without obstruction
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a video laryngoscope having a body, an insertion section extending from the body generally parallel to a median plane of the laryngoscope extending through the body, and a display screen assembly extending from the body generally perpendicular to the median plane, the body comprising a grip portion intermediate the display screen assembly and the insertion section. The display screen assembly, comprising a display screen, extends laterally from the body and the inner edge of the display screen falls within the lateral extent of the body. The grip portion is also of a minimum size to allow an adult to grip the laryngoscope, the hand abutting the screen assembly.Thus, the laryngoscope is of a minimum overall size, the screen is positioned as close as possible to the line of sight of a user directly viewing the distal end of the insertion section, during a medical procedure, facilitating the user alternating between direct and indirect viewing, whereas the screen does not prevent the user from manipulating the laryngoscope by applying thumb pressure to the body.The laryngoscope may optionally be provided with thumb operable controls on the body or the screen. The screen may be adjustable about an axis, and, by virtue of the configuration and size of the laryngoscope, adjustment may be effected by the user's thumb, without the need to adjust the grip of the remaining digits.