Wireless Laryngoscope Onboard Recording and Event Flagging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laryngoscope camera systems rely on external cables for visualization, which restricts movement, poses hazards due to fluid exposure, and is not suitable for training on conventional blade designs, lacking onboard recording and event flagging capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A wireless laryngoscope with a self-contained digital camera and microprocessor for real-time video transmission and onboard recording, featuring adjustable LED illumination, USB connectivity, and operator-controlled functions, designed to resemble conventional blade designs for training and equipped with event flagging capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If external cables are used for camera connection, then visualization is achieved, but movement is restricted and fluid exposure hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system is extracted from the external cable connection and integrated into the laryngoscope handle itself. The image sensor, processing unit, and storage are embedded within the handle, eliminating the need for external cables and associated fluid exposure hazards while maintaining full movement freedom during procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system is merged with the laryngoscope handle by integrating the image sensor, processing unit, and storage memory directly into the handle assembly. This consolidation eliminates external cables and creates a unified device that is both movement-free and protected from fluid exposure
2Adaptability or versatility
If onboard recording is added to wireless laryngoscope, then training capability is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The laryngoscope handle is designed as a multi-functional platform that combines wireless video transmission, onboard recording with event flagging, and simulator integration capabilities. This universal design allows the same device to serve both clinical procedures and training applications without requiring separate systems
Solution Approach 2:
The recording and processing functions are nested within the laryngoscope handle structure. The image sensor, processing unit, storage memory, and wireless transmitter are hierarchically integrated, with each component nested within the handle assembly, minimizing external additions while maximizing functionality
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional blade designs are used for training, then training relevance is improved, but modern safety features are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The laryngoscope blade is designed as an accurate copy of conventional Macintosh or Miller blade designs, maintaining the familiar shape and dimensions that trainees will encounter in clinical practice. This ensures training relevance while the modern handle provides enhanced safety and functionality
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
Facilitates proficient training on conventional laryngoscope designs, reduces stress on patients, and provides a portable, reliable system for capturing and reviewing intubation attempts, enhancing learning and reducing the risk of airway injuries by allowing real-time and post-session analysis.
Implementation Method 1
adjustable LED illumination
Data Source
AI summary
A laryngoscope has a first and second handle portion defining an internal cavity and forming a handle assembly. The laryngoscope includes a first and second blade portion defining an internal cavity and forming a blade assembly. A light and camera source within the internal cavity of the blade assembly illuminates at least a portion of the blade assembly and obtains images of the operation of the laryngoscope. A microprocessor coupled to the camera is mounted within one internal cavity and can record images from the camera. The microprocessor provides on-board recording capable of capturing video and audio and event data, such as from a simulator. A keypad is configured to provide for on-Board event flagging of the recorded data recorded by the microprocessor. The microprocessor may wirelessly transmit data from the laryngoscope.