Venom Desensitizer Device Using Titrated DC Current
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for venomous bites and stings, including antivenoms, often result in significant morbidity, disability, and financial burden, with limited effectiveness and safety concerns, and there is a need for a more efficient and safe method to neutralize venomous toxins.
Innovation Solution
A portable, hand-held device that delivers a brief titrated dose of high voltage, low amperage DC current to the affected area using a 9-volt battery, effectively neutralizing venom by targeting oxidative stress and altering venom proteins, thereby stopping toxic actions without causing significant side effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional antivenom treatments are used, then venom neutralization is achieved, but significant morbidity, disability, and financial burden occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the biological/chemical system of antivenom antibodies with an electrical/physical system using high voltage DC current to neutralize venom toxins through electrochemical breakdown and protein denaturation, thereby avoiding the immunological side effects and morbidity associated with traditional antivenom treatments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of venom treatment from chemical neutralization (antivenom proteins) to electrical neutralization (high voltage DC current), altering the mechanism of action to achieve venom destruction without the harmful effects of biological antivenoms
2Productivity
If high voltage DC current is applied to neutralize venom, then rapid pain relief and venom neutralization occur, but safety concerns about electrical current to human tissue arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies high voltage DC current locally only to the envenomation site through surface electrodes, rather than systemic administration, concentrating the therapeutic effect where needed while minimizing exposure and potential harm to the rest of the body
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses brief, titrated pulses of high voltage current (excessive voltage but controlled duration and amplitude) to achieve rapid venom neutralization, where the excessive electrical parameter is compensated by limiting exposure time and amplitude to ensure safety
3Reliability
If current treatments are used, then venom effects are addressed, but significant financial burden is imposed on patients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simple, inexpensive electronic device using common components (9-volt battery, capacitor, transformer, spark gap) that can be manufactured at low cost, replacing expensive antivenom medications and making treatment economically accessible
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 device provides rapid pain relief, halts oxidative reactions, and promotes healing with minimal risk, offering a cost-effective and safe alternative to traditional treatments, with successful outcomes in treating various venomous bites and stings, including snake and spider bites.
Implementation Method 1
A 9-volt battery provides power to the circuit so the electrodes deliver the low amperage current through the venom-affected area... This neutralizes the poisonous venom and targets the oxidative stress related to the envenomation
Implementation Method 2
The transfer of approximately 18 Kv to 25 Kv, at a distance of 50 mm between the contact electrodes (or longer distances when the extension wire is needed), overcomes skin resistance and delivers a direct current shock to the envenomation site, effectively stopping the venom's action. Electrons quickly attack the oxidative actions of venom
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for treating venomous bites and stings of poisonous snakes, insects and other types of poisonous vectors with a titrated dose of electrons. The unit is small and easily portable and requires on a 9-vold DC battery for power. It does not require a lot of expertise to use. A bi-metallic switch provides for a limited (and calculated) dose delivery of electrons. The venom desensitizer destabilizes and de-organizes toxic metalloproteinases. This occurs through several physiological and chemical phenomena. It addresses oxidative stress occurring from bite trauma as well as venom toxins without causing negative side effects other than a brief electrical shock.