Ventilator Bi-directional Communication System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional ventilators operate with single-direction communication, limiting their functionality and efficiency in data exchange, leading to inefficient workflows in healthcare settings.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a bi-directional communication system that allows ventilators to both send and receive data wirelessly or through wired connections, enabling real-time communication with medical entities and devices, and integrating contextualization of ventilator data with patient and caregiver information for enhanced management and protocol implementation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If single-direction wire line communication is used in conventional ventilators, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity and workflow efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkflow efficiencyVSAvoidcommunication system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions ventilator communication from a one-dimensional single-direction model to a two-dimensional bi-directional model, enabling both data transmission to and from the ventilator. This dimensional change in communication architecture allows for improved workflow efficiency through real-time monitoring and control while managing device complexity through standardized communication protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The bi-directional communication system implements feedback mechanisms where the ventilator can receive commands from external devices and transmit status information back. This feedback loop enables real-time monitoring and adjustment of ventilator parameters, significantly improving workflow efficiency despite the increased communication complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If bi-directional wireless communication is implemented, then the adaptability and ease of operation improve, but the device complexity and use of energy increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication flexibilityVSAvoidcommunication system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless communication system is designed to perform multiple functions including data transmission, remote monitoring, control, and protocol implementation. This multi-functionality approach increases adaptability and versatility while managing device complexity by consolidating communication capabilities into a unified system rather than separate dedicated components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional wired mechanical connection systems with wireless communication mechanisms. This substitution provides greater flexibility and ease of operation by eliminating physical connection requirements, while the complexity is managed through software-based communication protocols and standardized interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If real-time data streaming and remote control are enabled, then the productivity and reliability improve, but the use of energy and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepatient care reliabilityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The real-time data streaming capability maintains continuous communication between the ventilator and external monitoring systems, ensuring uninterrupted patient care monitoring. This continuous action improves reliability by enabling real-time detection and response to critical conditions, while energy consumption is managed through efficient data transmission protocols and selective monitoring based on patient status.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS9177109B2Healthcare facility ventilation management
Publication Date: 2015.11.03 ZOLL MEDICAL CORPORATION
  • US9177109B2 patent drawing
  • US9177109B2 patent drawing
  • US9177109B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for health care facility ventilation management is described. The method includes accessing ventilator data generated by a ventilator for a patient and providing patient information of the patient for the ventilator. The patient information is configured for contextualizing the ventilator data. The method also includes providing protocols and rules for the ventilator.