Vibration Sensitivity Probe Using a Programmable Vibration Source
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing point-of-care testing systems for neuropathy assessment are costly, cumbersome, and lack flexibility in configuration, making it difficult to efficiently assess vibration sensitivity in various clinical settings.
Innovation Solution
A device that attaches to a programmable vibration source, such as a mobile phone or tablet, with a probe that can be configured to convey vibrations appropriately for sensitivity testing, allowing for adjustable damping or resonance, and supports data logging and transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional hospital-based neurothesiometer is used for vibration sensitivity assessment, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A probe acts as an intermediary component that connects the programmable vibration source to the test subject's skin. The probe transmits vibrations from the vibration source while allowing the system to remain simple and modular, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses a programmable vibration source that can be configured for different vibration frequencies and patterns, making it universally applicable for various neuropathy assessments while maintaining a simple basic structure, thus improving measurement capability without proportionally increasing complexity
2Measurement precision
If traditional neurothesiometer is used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The programmable vibration source can be controlled through software that automates the vibration assessment process, allowing the device to guide the assessment procedure and reduce the operational burden on clinicians while maintaining measurement accuracy
3Reliability
If dedicated vibration assessment device is used, then reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a programmable vibration source that can dynamically adjust vibration parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and duration through software control. This allows the same hardware to adapt to different clinical scenarios and patient needs while maintaining reliable and consistent assessment protocols through programmed standardization
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
Enables low-cost, versatile, and user-friendly vibration sensitivity assessments that can be performed independently by patients or clinicians, providing accurate data for neuropathy evaluation and monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
a probe configured to be applied to a test location on a patient's skin and to convey vibrations generated by the programmable vibration source to the test location
Data Source
AI summary
A device, system and method for vibration sensitivity assessment are provided. the device has an attachment portion configured to detachably connect the device to a programmable vibration source and a probe configured to be applied to a test location on a test subject's skin and to convey vibrations generated by the programmable vibration source to the test location. The programmable vibration source may for example be a mobile telephone. A low-cost and widely usable device for vibration sensitivity assessment is thus provided.