Liposuction Aspirate Quantification via Weight and Image Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the components of matter removed during liposuction procedures, such as fat cells and fluid, are imprecise due to reliance on graduations and visual measurements, which are prone to errors, especially when the container is not at eye level, and lack the ability to differentiate between fat cells and fluid components accurately.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a container with a load cell for weighing and cameras for image analysis, along with a processor to determine the components based on weight and visual information, including a separate absorbent material to separate fat cells from fluid, enabling accurate quantification and separation of fat cells from the aspirate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If graduated scales with 50 mL or more graduations are used for measuring aspirate volume, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical visual reading system (graduated scales requiring line-of-sight alignment) with an electronic imaging and processing system. Cameras capture images of the container, and image processing algorithms automatically determine volume based on meniscus detection and calibration data, eliminating the need for precise visual alignment while significantly improving measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an optical copy (image) of the physical aspirate in the container and processes this copy to determine volume. By working with the image data rather than direct visual observation, the system achieves higher precision without requiring the operator to maintain specific viewing conditions, effectively decoupling measurement quality from operational complexity.
2Measurement precision
If visual measurement methods are used to determine components of matter, then the device complexity is minimized, but the ability to differentiate between fat cells and fluid components deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes colorimetric analysis to differentiate between fat cells and fluid components. Optical sensors detect color variations in the aspirate, and the system correlates these color changes with component composition using calibration data. This allows the system to distinguish between yellowish fat cells and clearer fluid without complex mechanical separation devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer (image processing algorithms and calibration databases) between the optical detection and component identification. Rather than directly observing and identifying components, the system captures images, processes them through algorithms that compare against calibration data, and outputs component quantities, thereby achieving accurate differentiation through computational mediation.
3Reliability
If continuous flow rate measurements are used to quantify matter removed, then the productivity is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to air gaps and variable flow in liposuction procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calibration by capturing images of known volumes and establishing the relationship between image characteristics (meniscus position, container geometry) and actual volume. This pre-established calibration data allows the system to quickly convert subsequent images into accurate volume measurements without requiring continuous flow rate monitoring, maintaining reliability under variable flow conditions while enabling rapid measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical flow rate measurement approach with an optical imaging and image processing system. Instead of measuring flow continuously through mechanical means that are sensitive to air gaps and variable conditions, the system periodically captures images and uses computational algorithms to determine cumulative volume, providing reliable quantification that is insensitive to flow variability while maintaining measurement speed through automated processing.
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
The system provides precise quantification and separation of fat cells and fluid components, reducing errors and allowing for symmetric treatment of body areas, and facilitates efficient fat cell harvesting for grafting by minimizing mechanical trauma and maintaining sterility.
Implementation Method 1
a device for weighing the container and the matter received therein
Implementation Method 2
a separate absorbent material to separate fat cells from fluid
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for determining components of matter removed from a body includes a container for receiving the matter, a device for weighing the container and the matter therein, an instrument for obtaining information relating to at least one aspect of the matter, and a processor programmed to determine the components of the matter based in part on a weight of the matter determined by said device and the information relating to the at least one aspect of the matter obtained by said instrument. A display includes a screen for displaying information relating to the matter provided by said processor. The information may include a height and/or a color of the matter among other aspects. An insert containing an absorbent material may be utilized to separate fat cells from a fluid when liposuction is used to remove the matter. The insert may be porous allowing fluid to enter for absorption.