VAD Controller Interface Module Hot-Swap Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical circulatory assist systems require urgent and high-stress replacement of faulty patient interface modules, which can lead to user errors due to infrequent training and difficulty in connecting and disconnecting modules, especially in emergency situations, potentially resulting in power loss and adverse events.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical circulatory assist system that allows simultaneous connection of multiple patient interface modules, enabling seamless transfer of control from a faulty module to a replacement without disconnecting the faulty module, thereby reducing the urgency and complexity of replacement procedures and allowing trained staff to remove the faulty module later.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional mechanical circulatory assist systems are used with only one controller connected at a time, then the system structure remains simple, but the replacement process becomes high-stress and error-prone requiring careful disconnection and reconnection steps
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the single controller connection into multiple independent controller connections. Each patient interface module can connect independently to the blood pump through separate connectors, allowing simultaneous operation of multiple controllers without requiring disconnection of others. This segmentation enables parallel processing of control functions and eliminates the need for sequential disconnection/reconnection operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces dynamic switching capability where the blood pump can dynamically select which controller to listen to based on real-time needs. The controller selection is not fixed but can change dynamically during operation, allowing seamless transition between controllers without physical disconnection. This dynamic architecture enables flexible controller replacement while maintaining continuous operation.
2Reliability
If patient interface module connectors are made difficult to disconnect to prevent accidental disconnection, then connection stability improves, but the replacement process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate coupling and decoupling mechanisms. The coupling mechanism provides stable electrical connection with simple operation, while the decoupling mechanism requires deliberate activation only when replacement is intended. This segmentation allows the connector to simultaneously achieve both stable connection and easy replacement by separating these two functional requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary mechanism is introduced between the connector and the connection interface. This intermediary component facilitates both the stable electrical connection and the controlled decoupling process. It acts as a mediator that maintains reliable connection during normal operation while enabling intentional replacement through a dedicated activation mechanism, thus resolving the contradiction between stability and replaceability.
3Ease of manufacture
If patients receive infrequent training on module replacement, then training time requirements are reduced, but user error risk increases during emergency replacement situations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary configuration where multiple controllers are pre-connected and configured during manufacturing or initial setup. The replacement process is designed so that the correct controller is automatically identified and activated without requiring complex user decisions. This preliminary preparation reduces the cognitive load and time pressure on users during emergency situations, thereby reducing error rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that guide the user through the replacement process in real-time. Visual, auditory, or haptic feedback indicates the correct connection sequence and confirms successful controller activation. This feedback loop reduces user anxiety and error rates by providing continuous guidance during the replacement process, even when training is minimal.
Data Source
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AI summary
Mechanical circulatory assist systems and related methods accommodate the connection of a second patient interface module used to control a circulatory assist pump without having to disconnect a first patient interface module used to control the circulatory assist pump. A mechanical circulatory assist system includes a blood pump, a first patient interface module, and a first connector. The first patient interface module is operatively coupled with the blood pump and configured to control operation of the blood pump. The first connector is operatively coupled with the blood pump and configured to couple with a second patient interface module configured to control operation of the blood pump without decoupling of the first interface module from the blood pump.