Wireless Manometry Catheter with Modular Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic instruments for esophageal and anorectal manometry lack efficient and accurate methods for measuring physiological parameters under realistic swallowing conditions, which hinders the diagnosis of esophageal diseases such as achalasia and dysphagia.
Innovation Solution
A manometry system comprising a manometry catheter with a wireless electronics module that communicates directly with a PC, allowing for the transmission of impedance and pressure measurements, and a base unit for calibration and charging, enhancing the diagnostic capabilities by providing high-resolution and 3D mapping of pressure levels within the esophagus and rectum.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a wireless assembly with detachable catheter electronics module is used, then ease of operation and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the electronics into separate modules: a catheter electronics module that attaches to the catheter and a wireless electronics module that can be detached and recharged. This segmentation allows the catheter to be sterilized separately and the electronics to be maintained independently, improving ease of operation and adaptability while managing complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless electronics module serves multiple functions: it processes signals from the catheter, stores data, provides wireless communication, and can be recharged independently. This multi-functionality consolidates several components into one unit, improving ease of operation without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
2Measurement precision
If high-resolution pressure sensors are implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical pressure sensing mechanisms with electronic pressure sensors that can be integrated into the catheter structure. This substitution maintains high measurement precision while reducing mechanical complexity and facilitating easier manufacturing of the catheter assembly
3Loss of time
If a rechargeable battery system is used, then loss of time for charging is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is segmented into a rechargeable battery within the wireless electronics module and a separate charging mechanism in the base unit. This allows the battery to be recharged without replacing the entire electronics module, reducing time loss while managing complexity through separate charging infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic battery management features including charge level monitoring and automatic connection to the base unit when docked. This self-service capability reduces manual intervention and time loss while the complexity is managed through automated control circuits
Data Source
AI summary
A manometry system includes a manometric catheter configured to sense pressure within a gastrointestinal tract, a wireless assembly configured for transmitting/receiving signals to/from the catheter, and a base unit configured to calibrate the catheter prior to usage thereof and to store and charge a wireless electronics module of the wireless assembly.