X-Ray Marker Holder Channels for Clean Secure Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray markers in healthcare settings face issues with germ spread due to frequent handling, difficulty in attachment, wear and tear, and exposure to dirt and microorganisms, leading to inefficiencies and loss of markers.
Innovation Solution
A holder with sliding channels and tension mechanisms that securely store X-ray markers, minimizing direct contact and protecting the adhesive side, while allowing easy access and preventing contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If X-ray markers are attached to ID badges or scrub pockets using double-sided tape, then markers are easily accessible and carried conveniently, but germs and bacteria spread between the patient and the ID badge, and markers are prone to loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dedicated marker holder as an intermediary device between the technologist and the markers. The holder has a front surface that can be attached to the ID badge, while the markers are stored in a recessed area with adhesive backing. This intermediary structure prevents direct contact between the ID badge and markers, reducing germ spread while maintaining easy accessibility.
2Reliability
If markers are attached to a thin sheet of plastic, then markers are secured and carried conveniently, but removing and pulling markers off the plastic causes wear and tear on both the ID badge and the markers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the marker attachment system into two distinct parts: a holder structure attached to the ID badge, and individual markers with adhesive backs. The holder provides a recessed storage area that secures markers without requiring them to be peeled off a thin plastic sheet. This segmentation eliminates the wear and tear caused by repeated attachment and removal from thin plastic.
3Strength
If markers are stored without attaching them to plastic or another object, then wear and tear on ID badges is avoided, but the double-sided tape on the back of the markers remains exposed and accumulates dirt, lint, and other microorganisms
Solution Approach 1:
The holder structure serves as an intermediary that protects the marker adhesive backs. The recessed area of the holder covers the double-sided tape when markers are stored, preventing exposure to dirt, lint, and microorganisms. Meanwhile, the holder itself is attached to the ID badge, avoiding direct attachment of markers to the badge and preserving badge durability.
4Ease of operation
If markers are carried in pockets, then markers are easily accessible, but markers may fall out and be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The holder acts as an intermediary container that secures markers while maintaining accessibility. The holder can be attached to the ID badge or carried separately, providing a dedicated storage space with adhesive backing that prevents markers from falling out. This eliminates the risk of loss associated with carrying markers loose in pockets while preserving easy access.
Data Source
AI summary
A holder for the storage and utilization of X-ray markers. The holder includes one or more channels in which an X-ray marker may be slid for storage. While the marker is stored, the holder may be transported throughout a healthcare setting. The marker may then be easily removed from the holder when the marker is needed. The holder may include one or more indents in a channel to improve the ability to slide an X-ray marker. A tension mechanism within a channel holds a marker in place while it is being stored in a holder. Further, openings in the front panel of the holder may allow user to see what marker is being stored. The holder may also include thumb notches to help easily insert and remove an X-ray marker from the holder.