Ultrasound Transducer Positioning via Strap Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasound systems face challenges in accurately securing and orienting the transducer during fetal monitoring, leading to potential false fetal heart rate interpretations and unnecessary medical interventions due to limitations in patient positioning, gestational age, and transducer alignment.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasound transducer positioning apparatus comprising a base and cap that applies pressure to the transducer via a strap, allowing for controlled angle adjustment and secure fixation on the patient's body, constructed from medical-grade materials like Teflon, metal, or ceramics, to maintain consistent ultrasound energy targeting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If straps are used to secure the ultrasound transducer to the patient's abdomen, then the transducer is fixed in position, but the transducer orientation cannot be properly controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning apparatus is divided into separate functional components: a base element that contacts the transducer, a strap for securing, and an optional cap for additional stabilization. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to achieve both stable positioning and proper orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The base element acts as an intermediary between the strap and the transducer. It translates the securing force from the strap into controlled pressure on the transducer, enabling both fixation and orientation control without direct contact between the strap and transducer surface.
2Measurement precision
If the transducer is repositioned frequently to achieve accurate fetal monitoring, then monitoring accuracy improves, but unnecessary medical interventions increase due to false readings
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus enables preliminary proper positioning of the transducer before monitoring begins. By providing structured guidance for correct transducer orientation and securing, it reduces the need for frequent repositioning and minimizes false readings that could lead to unnecessary interventions.
3Ease of operation
If conventional ultrasound systems are used without specialized positioning apparatus, then device complexity remains low, but transducer orientation control is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus applies localized pressure at specific contact points on the transducer surface through the base element. This localized interaction provides precise orientation control without requiring complex mechanical structures, maintaining simplicity while improving functionality.
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 apparatus ensures accurate and prolonged fetal monitoring by maintaining the transducer's optimal orientation, reducing false readings and unnecessary interventions by securely fixing the transducer with adjustable force and angle control.
Implementation Method 1
a second surface opposite the first surface, the second surface having a transverse channel dimensioned to receive a strap to apply a force to urge the base towards the ultrasound transducer
Implementation Method 2
when the cap is engaged with the base, an interference fit exerts a force on the strap disposed between the peripheral wall of the base and the normal surface of the cap to prevent movement of the strap relative to the base
Implementation Method 3
an ultrasound transducer is placed on a patient's abdomen, the ultrasonic energy penetrates the abdomen and is reflected back to the transducer
Implementation Method 4
pressure exerted by the apparatus on the ultrasound transducer influences the angle at which the ultrasound energy is delivered to the patient's body
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasound transducer positioning apparatus and method that are capable of securing an ultrasound transducer in a desired position on a patient's body are disclosed. In some implementations, pressure exerted by the apparatus on the ultrasound transducer influences the angle at which the ultrasound energy is delivered to the patient's body.