NIR Imaging Cap for Uneven-Surface Hematoma Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting intracranial hematomas, such as CT scans and MRI, are not always readily available in emergency settings, particularly in remote or underdeveloped areas, leading to delayed diagnosis and potential increased mortality due to the inability to quickly identify and treat hematomas, especially in cases of acute subdural hematomas.
Innovation Solution
A handheld optical imaging device using near-infrared (NIR) light that includes a removable cap with deformable housings and a flexible bellow to accommodate uneven surfaces, allowing for effective detection of intracranial hematomas without the need for imaging systems like CT or MRI, while excluding ambient light to improve signal-to-noise ratio.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If CT scanning or MRI is used to detect intracranial hematomas, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but availability and response time deteriorate due to limited access in remote areas and long wait times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential diagnostic function from complex CT/MRI systems by using a portable optical device that detects hematomas through near-infrared light absorption differences. This removes the need for bulky, expensive imaging equipment while retaining the ability to identify intracranial bleeding, making the technology accessible in remote and resource-limited settings
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical imaging systems (CT scanners, MRI machines) with an optical detection system using near-infrared light sources and photodetectors. This substitution enables portable, rapid hematoma detection without requiring the complex mechanical infrastructure of traditional imaging facilities
2Measurement precision
If CT scanning is used to monitor chronic hematoma, then detection capability is improved, but radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces ionizing radiation-based CT scanning with non-ionizing near-infrared optical detection. The system uses NIR light sources and photodetectors to measure tissue optical properties, enabling repeated monitoring of chronic hematomas without accumulating radiation exposure in patients
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid cap is used for the optical imaging device, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to uneven surfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible cap made of elastomeric material that can conform to uneven surfaces such as the human skull. The flexibility is achieved through selecting materials with appropriate durometer values (e.g., 20-40 Shore A), allowing the cap to maintain structural integrity while adapting to irregular anatomical surfaces for optimal optical contact
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 timely detection of intracranial hematomas in various settings, including emergency situations, by using NIR light to differentiate between normal and hematoma-affected tissue, facilitating immediate triage and treatment, even in areas without access to advanced imaging technologies.
Implementation Method 1
The deformable bellow of the device cap has a generally C-shaped cross-sectional profile defining a first perimeter rim and a second perimeter rim, wherein the first perimeter rim sealingly engages the bellow support plate. In use, the second perimeter rim of the bellow contacts the surface of the object to be imaged
Implementation Method 2
A handheld optical imaging device using near-infrared (NIR) light that includes a removable cap with deformable housings and a flexible bellow to accommodate uneven surfaces, allowing for effective detection of intracranial hematomas
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a removable optical imaging device cap for use with a near infrared (NIR) light optical imaging device for detecting intracranial hematoma.