Tourniquet Cuff Stabilizer for Alignment and Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior surgical tourniquet cuffs face challenges in maintaining uniform pressure and alignment, particularly when applied to non-cylindrical limbs, due to the tendency of overlapping inflated portions to shift laterally, which can compromise the safety and effectiveness of blood flow occlusion.
Innovation Solution
A surgical tourniquet cuff with a stabilizer component that maintains the overlapping cuff portions in alignment, eliminating the need for manual tying and ensuring consistent pressure application, and allowing for easy connection of multiple cuffs to form an extended cuff for larger limbs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tie ribbons are used to secure the overlapping cuff portions, then the cuff can be applied to the limb, but the overlapping portions may still shift laterally due to insufficient securing strength
Solution Approach 1:
A stabilizer component is introduced as an intermediary element between the overlapping cuff portions. This stabilizer includes a first portion that engages with the first cuff portion and a second portion that engages with the second cuff portion, providing a mechanical connection that prevents lateral shifting more effectively than tie ribbons alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizer component is configured to be received within a slot defined by the cuff portions, utilizing a geometric fit that constrains lateral movement. The slot and stabilizer geometry work together to maintain alignment through physical constraints rather than relying solely on friction or tying.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cuff is applied to non-cylindrical limbs, then the cuff can accommodate various anatomical shapes, but the overlapping portions tend to shift laterally away from alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizer acts as a mediator that maintains the geometric relationship between overlapping cuff portions regardless of the underlying limb shape. By providing a rigid or semi-rigid connection structure, the stabilizer decouples the cuff alignment from the limb contour variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizer component serves multiple functions: it maintains alignment, prevents lateral shifting, and works with the slot mechanism to secure the cuff. This multi-functional element addresses both the adaptability to different limb shapes and the stability of cuff alignment simultaneously.
3Reliability
If manual tying of ribbons is required, then the cuff can be secured, but the process is time-consuming and dependent on user diligence
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizer and slot mechanism create a self-aligning and self-securing system. When the cuff portions are overlapped, the stabilizer is naturally received within the slot, and the geometric constraints automatically prevent lateral shifting without requiring precise manual tying actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizer is pre-configured with engagement features that automatically engage with the slot when the cuff portions are brought together. This preliminary configuration of the stabilizer geometry ensures that alignment and securing occur simultaneously during the application process, eliminating the need for separate tying steps.
Data Source
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AI summary
A surgical tourniquet cuff that includes a stabilizer component that facilitates application of an overlapping cuff around the limb of a patient. The stabilizer is fixed to the cuff, and requires no tying or similar user manipulation to secure the overlapping cuff in alignment with the underlying cuff. The stabilizer improves the stability of the inflated cuff to prevent sideways shifting motion of overlapping cuff portions as the cuff is applied to the limb. The stabilizer also provides a handle mechanism to enable the user to snugly apply the overlapping cuff around the patient's limb while the overlapping portions remain properly aligned along their long axes. The stabilizer is designed to also facilitate attaching together two tourniquet cuffs end-to-end, with respective bladders overlapping and in proper alignment so that those attached cuffs can be used as a single, extended surgical cuff applied around a patient's limb.