Wearable Ultrasound Probe Mount With Spherical Locking Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasound probes are difficult to position and orient accurately for extended durations, often requiring manual holding, which can lead to reduced imaging quality and user discomfort due to non-ergonomic designs and lack of secure locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A wearable device with a mount and base system that allows for hands-free operation, featuring a spherical outer surface and adjustable straps, locks, and a lock mechanism to secure the probe's position and orientation, accommodating various body shapes and providing ergonomic comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a subject or sonographer holds the ultrasound probe manually, then the probe can be positioned and oriented, but the operation becomes error-prone and unsustainable for long durations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a wearable device as an intermediary between the sonographer and the ultrasound probe. This device includes a mount that secures the probe and a base that interfaces with the sonographer's body, allowing hands-free operation while maintaining precise positioning through mechanical coupling rather than manual holding.
Solution Approach 2:
The wearable device enables the ultrasound probe to serve itself by being securely mounted on the sonographer's body. The probe maintains its position and orientation automatically through the mechanical structure of the wearable device, eliminating the need for continuous manual adjustment and support.
2Ease of operation
If wearable devices are designed for hands-free operation, then operator comfort improves, but the devices may be difficult to install or adjust
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable device is divided into distinct segments: a base that interfaces with the sonographer's body, a mount that holds the ultrasound probe, and a locking mechanism that secures the probe in position. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies installation and adjustment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The wearable device incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through rotatable joints and adjustable locking mechanisms. These features allow the device to be easily configured for different body shapes and probe positions, improving ease of operation while maintaining secure hands-free support.
3Manufacturing precision
If the probe is securely locked in position, then imaging quality improves, but the device may not accommodate various body shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable device incorporates asymmetric design elements that allow it to adapt to different body shapes. The base and mount can be positioned at various angles and orientations, enabling the device to conform to diverse anatomical structures while maintaining precise probe positioning through the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The wearable device is designed with universal adaptability features, including adjustable straps, rotatable joints, and multiple positioning options. These features enable the same device to accommodate various body shapes and sizes while maintaining secure, precise probe positioning through the locking mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A wearable device is provided. The wearable device may include a mount including a spherical outer surface, and an opening configured to receive a probe. The wearable device may include a base comprising an inner circumferential surface that interfaces with the spherical outer surface of the mount to selectively rotate the mount about at least one axis of the base. The wearable device may include a lock that locks a position of the probe relative to the mount and that locks the probe at an orientation relative to the base.