Modular Reduced-Pressure Treatment Unit With Expandable Care Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reduced pressure treatment systems lack the ability to combine with expandable component modules, limiting their functionality and treatment options beyond basic wound therapy.
Innovation Solution
A modular reduced pressure treatment system incorporating a control unit with a graphical user interface, communication ports, and a controller area network (CAN) protocol, allowing for integration of additional modules such as wound cameras, skin stretching, and pH monitoring, enabling expanded treatment features through a unified display interface and modular connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a basic reduced pressure treatment system is used, then the system structure remains simple, but the functionality and treatment options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into a base reduced pressure treatment unit and separate detachable component modules. Each module performs a specific function (wound camera, skin stretching, pH monitoring) and can be independently attached or removed from the control unit, allowing functionality expansion without permanently complicating the system structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed with universal interfaces and mounting mechanisms that can accommodate multiple different types of component modules. This multi-functional design allows a single base system to support various treatment options and monitoring capabilities through interchangeable modules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple treatment modules are integrated into the system, then comprehensive treatment regimens are enabled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Component modules are designed to nest within or attach to the control unit housing. The modules can be inserted into designated recesses or mounted on external surfaces of the control unit, creating a compact integrated system when multiple modules are combined, while maintaining the ability to separate them when not needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
A connectable component module for a reduced pressure treatment system is provided. The module includes a housing with a rim, a recessed end surface, and an extension. A mounting assembly is fixed to the recessed end surface and includes extendable latches. The latches include a fastener bar that is flush with the rim when the latches are not extended. The module also generally includes a control system contained within the housing. The control system has a communication controller, a communication plug coupled to the communication controller and protruding through an aperture in the mounting assembly and recessed end, and a communication port coupled to the communication controller and exposed to an aperture in the extension.