In-vivo Pressure Monitoring System Using MEMS Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing in-vivo pressure monitoring systems are uncomfortable for patients, restrict movement, provide limited and inaccurate pressure readings due to artificial fluid filling and sensitivity to movement and environmental factors, and are not suitable for long-term monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A minimally invasive system using a cannula and micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) pressure sensors integrated in a flexible tube, with optional temperature sensors and wireless communication, allowing for long-term, accurate pressure monitoring with compensation for non-conditional factors like movement and temperature variations, and integration with nerve stimulation or alarm devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a fluid filled catheter is inserted via the urinary tract into the bladder for pressure monitoring, then pressure readings can be obtained, but the system becomes uncomfortable for the patient and restricts movement significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional components: a minimally invasive catheter for pressure sensing, a separate processing unit for signal conditioning, and an external display device. This segmentation allows the pressure sensing function to be performed by a small, comfortable catheter while other components are positioned externally, improving patient comfort without sacrificing measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical fluid-filled catheter system with an electronic pressure sensor-based system. Instead of using fluid transmission mechanics, solid-state or semiconductor pressure sensors directly convert pressure into electrical signals, enabling a smaller catheter design that reduces patient discomfort and movement restrictions
2Measurement precision
If a catheter is inserted for pressure monitoring, then pressure readings can be obtained, but the system can only be in place for a limited period of time and does not provide true indication of bladder pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where pressure data is continuously monitored and processed. The processing unit can filter out artifacts from patient movement by comparing signals over time and using reference measurements, enabling accurate pressure readings to be obtained even during extended monitoring periods when the bladder undergoes complete filling and emptying cycles
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses multiple pressure sensors positioned at different locations within the catheter system. By taking measurements at multiple points and processing this excess data, the system can distinguish between true bladder pressure and artifacts from other sources, providing accurate readings over extended periods
3Measurement precision
If a pressure monitoring system is inserted into the body, then pressure readings can be obtained, but the system is sensitive to patient movement generating pressure variations that cannot be compensated for
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing unit that acts as a mediator between the pressure sensors and the final readings. This processing unit includes signal conditioning circuits and algorithms that filter out movement-related artifacts while preserving true pressure signals, effectively decoupling the measurement system from the harmful effects of patient movement
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters of the pressure measurement by using multiple sensors at different locations and orientations. By measuring pressure from multiple perspectives and processing these varied signals, the system can identify and eliminate movement-related variations while maintaining sensitivity to true physiological pressure changes
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
Enables comfortable, long-term, accurate pressure monitoring with reduced patient discomfort, allowing for extended data collection and improved assessment of patient conditions, compensating for environmental and movement-related factors, and facilitating therapeutic interventions.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure sensor positioned at a distal end of the delivery member
Implementation Method 2
a temperature sensor such that pressure data from the first sensor can be adjusted to remove any temperature related effects
Data Source
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Figure 5
AI summary
A system for in-vivo monitoring of pressure of a body fluid. The system comprises a delivery component and an elongate sensor delivery member shaped so as to pass through the delivery component when it has been inserted in to a patient. A first pressure sensor is positioned at a distal end of the delivery member.