Modular Auscultation Connector for Disposable Sensor Swapping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stethoscopes are limited by the integration of a single sound sensor type, which can compromise safety and sound quality when used with disposable stethoscopes in infectious environments, and attaching personal stethoscopes under personal protective equipment (PPE) is cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A modular auscultation device with interchangeable sound sensors and connectors that allow easy attachment and detachment, enabling use of personal stethoscopes with disposable sensors while maintaining hygiene and safety by keeping the personal headset clean.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional stethoscope is designed with a single integrated sound sensor, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The stethoscope is divided into separate modular components: a reusable headset assembly and interchangeable sound sensor assemblies. The sound sensor assembly includes the chest piece, flexible tubing, and connector as separable components that can be detached and replaced independently from the headset, enabling users to switch between different sensor types without affecting the main device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The headset assembly is designed with a universal connector interface that can accommodate multiple types of sound sensor assemblies (mechanical, electronic, disposable). The standardized coupling mechanism allows a single headset to work with various sensor configurations, making the device multi-functional and adaptable to different clinical needs and infection control requirements.
2Reliability
If a disposable stethoscope is used in infectious environments, then hygiene and safety are improved, but sound quality and fit are inferior
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the disposable sound sensor assembly from the reusable headset. The disposable assembly includes only the chest piece and associated tubing that contacts the patient, while the headset with the quality microphone and processing electronics is reused and sterilized between patients, maintaining both hygiene and sound quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The sound sensor assembly is designed as a disposable component that can be easily discarded after single use in infectious environments, eliminating the need to clean and sterilize the entire stethoscope. This disposable assembly includes the chest piece and flexible tubing that may have been contaminated, while the expensive headset with quality sensors is preserved for repeated use.
3Reliability
If a personal stethoscope is attached under PPE, then safety is improved, but ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stethoscope is segmented into a headset assembly that wears under PPE and a detachable sound sensor assembly that attaches to the external surface of the PPE. This allows the personal headset to be positioned under the protective equipment while the disposable sensor attaches to the outside, making it easy to put on and remove without compromising safety or ease of operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a personal stethoscope is used with disposable sensors, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The headset assembly incorporates a universal coupling interface that can connect to multiple types of sound sensor assemblies through a standardized mechanism. This universal interface simplifies the connection process and reduces the apparent complexity by providing a single, consistent interface for various sensor types, even though the system is highly versatile.
Data Source
AI summary
An auscultation device having a headset, a chest piece, and tubing connecting the chest piece to the headset. At least one connector disposed in the tubing between the headset and the chest piece and the at least one connector comprising a first female connector portion and a second male connector portion. The first female connector portion having a receiving cavity and a collar which is slidable and used to lock the first and second portions together, and the second male connector portion having a through hole, a compressible O-ring, and a latching ring collar.