Wearable Diver Rescue Device Automates CPR Underwater
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for rescuing divers who lose consciousness underwater are delayed and inefficient, as they rely on manual administration of CPR and supplemental oxygen, which can lead to prolonged exposure to hypoxia and increased risk of drowning or severe morbidity due to the time it takes to reach the surface and initiate effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Innovation Solution
A wearable diver rescue device that automatically switches to 100% oxygen supply, provides positive pressure ventilation, initiates chest compressions, and alerts emergency services, integrating with existing dive equipment to expedite and automate the respiratory and cardiac components of CPR, ensuring immediate and continuous oxygen delivery and chest compressions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If manual CPR and oxygen administration are used, then the rescue process can be initiated, but the time to deliver effective treatment is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically switching the diver's gas supply to 100% oxygen and initiating positive pressure ventilation immediately upon detecting loss of consciousness, before manual intervention can occur. This eliminates the time delay between detecting the emergency and beginning life-saving treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
The rescue system serves itself by using the diver's own equipment (gas tank, regulator, BCD) to automatically provide oxygen therapy and buoyancy control without requiring external rescue equipment or manual operation. The system monitors the diver's vital signs and autonomously activates the appropriate rescue protocols.
2Productivity
If automated rescue systems are implemented, then the speed and effectiveness of CPR is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multiple rescue functions using a single integrated device that combines vital sign monitoring, automated oxygen switching, positive pressure ventilation control, and buoyancy management. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate devices while maintaining comprehensive rescue capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the diver's existing respiratory equipment (regulator, mask, gas tank) as intermediaries to deliver automated rescue therapy. By leveraging the familiar dive gear already in use, the system avoids requiring completely new specialized equipment, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the diver is brought to the surface for CPR, then comprehensive treatment can be provided, but the time to reach the surface and begin treatment is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The system initiates preliminary respiratory support and oxygen administration while the diver is still underwater, eliminating the need to wait until reaching the surface to begin life-saving treatment. This preliminary action continues throughout the ascent, ensuring continuous therapeutic benefit.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated oxygen delivery and positive pressure ventilation system operates continuously from the moment of activation underwater through the ascent to the surface, ensuring uninterrupted life-saving therapy. The system maintains constant monitoring and support without interruption during the transition from underwater to surface environment.
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable safety system for either diving, harsh or anoxic environments, or for individuals at high risk for respiratory and/or cardiac failure is disclosed. The wearable safety system includes biometric monitoring and provides cardiac and/or respiratory support in the event that the wearer experiences cardiac and/or respiratory failure. There are different configurations of the wearable safety system designed to work with different use cases, and to provide different levels of protection. In the case of diving, the wearable safety system additionally utilizes data collected by the dive computer to advise a rescue diver as to the best course of action in managing an unconscious diver's ascent and can also inflate the diver's buoyancy control device (BCD) or onboard personal flotation device.