Detachable Extremity Power Modules for Patient Simulator Uptime
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient simulators lack the realism and additional features necessary for comprehensive medical training, posing risks to actual patients and limiting the effectiveness of hands-on practice.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system for patient simulators that includes modular, detachable extremities with integrated power sources, such as lithium batteries, and quick-connect connectors for easy replacement, enhancing realism and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If power sources are integrated into the simulator body, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into modular power source units that can be independently replaced. Each power source is contained within a detachable module, allowing the system to maintain high reliability through easy replacement without increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a recoverable power supply approach where depleted power sources are quickly replaced with pre-charged units. This allows continuous operation and maintains reliability while the replaced power sources can be recharged and reused, avoiding waste and reducing long-term complexity.
2Ease of operation
If power sources are made replaceable, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection and mechanical attachment functions are merged into a single quick-connect mechanism. This integrated approach allows power source replacement to be accomplished through one simple action rather than multiple steps, improving ease of operation without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-connect mechanism is designed to automatically align and engage connection pins and contacts when the power source module is attached. This self-aligning feature eliminates the need for precise manual positioning, making the replacement process intuitive and easy while minimizing the complexity of the connector design.
3Use of energy by moving object
If advanced battery technology is used, then power density is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power source is segmented into a standardized module with built-in management electronics and protective structures. This modular approach encapsulates the complex battery chemistry within a simplified interface, allowing high power density batteries to be used while shielding the complexity from the rest of the system and reducing overall manufacturing precision requirements.
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 a more realistic and efficient training environment by allowing quick power source swaps, reducing downtime, and supporting advanced medical scenarios, thus improving user experience and safety.
Implementation Method 1
The power source assembly includes one or more power sources, such as batteries
Data Source
AI summary
Power supply systems for patient simulators and associated devices, systems, and methods are provided. In some instances, a patient simulator comprises: a simulated torso containing at least one of a pump, a compressor, or a control unit; and a simulated extremity configured to be selectively coupled to the simulated torso, the simulated extremity containing a power source assembly configured to provide power to at least one of the pump, the compressor, or the control unit. The simulated extremity may comprise at least one of a simulated leg portion or a simulated arm portion. The power source assembly may be positioned within a housing sized and shaped to simulate a portion of the simulated extremity.