Patent Description:
The present application is directed to a rate monitor for a portable medical training device, and more particularly to a rate monitor assembly for attachment to a portable medical training manikin for teaching cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Numerous solutions have been offered in the past to provide an inexpensive medical training manikin which can be used in a cardiopulmonary resuscitation ("CPR") training environment for a group of trainees. It is desired that such medical training manikins are lightweight for easy transportation to the training site, as well as stackable for compact packing and carrying, capable of simple and quick assembly, readily able to be cleaned or otherwise maintained in a sanitary condition, easy to use, and capable of substantially simulating the functions and responses of a human patient. Additionally, it is desired that a quality product be provided, which is not only lightweight, but of a realistic and durable material which would result in a longer product life. A take-home training aid for practicing human cardiopulmonary resuscitation as disclosed by <CIT> is contained in a non-humanoid shaped housing. When placed in a prominent location in the home, such as a child's room, the CPR training aid reminds users of the CPR sills they have learned and encourages them to practice with the training aid. The internal mechanism consists of a simulated airway, a compression mechanism, a compression feedback mechanism, a metronome, a breast plate and back plate with simulated anatomical landmarks, and/or an external landmark for identifying the proper location for placing a hand, hands, or fingers on the chest. Voice prompts on the steps of CPR and/or actual CPR performance may also be included. The chest plate and back plate are connected by one or more telescoping posts and a resistance device is between the two plates to simulate the resistance of a human chest to compression. The internal mechanism can be placed in a variety of non-humanoid containers such as a child's teddy bear or other stuffed toy. A CPR student can use the toy or other non-humanoid container to practice CPR during a CPR class and then later at home. From <CIT>, a wire to board connector is known that is configured for connecting wires to components includes a female component defining a socket with electrical contacts therein. A male component includes an insulative base body with contacts having a first section configured for receipt of a conductive core of an insulated wire, and an insulative plug member that extends transversely from the base body. The electrical contacts have a second section that extends at least partially onto the plug member. In mating contact of the male and female components, the plug member is inserted into the socket such that the electrical contacts on the plug member engage against the electrical contacts in the socket to electrically connect the wires to the electrical component.

In January, <NUM>, the American Heart Association began to include the use of CPR feedback technology as an additional standard in their CPR training guidelines. The use of CPR feedback devices was desired in order to improve student chest compression rate, depth of compressions and hand position - components which are vital to quality performance of CPR. As a result, improvements were desired to provide an effective, low cost CPR feedback mechanism with portable cardiopulmonary resuscitation manikin training devices.

Certain embodiments are hereinafter described in detail in connection with the views and examples of <FIG>.

Various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, and use of the apparatuses, systems, methods, and processes disclosed herein. One or more examples of these non-limiting embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that systems and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting embodiments. The features illustrated or described in connection with one non-limiting embodiment may be combined with the features of other non-limiting embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Reference throughout the specification to "various embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," "some example embodiments," "one example embodiment," or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with any embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in various embodiments," "in some embodiments," "in one embodiment," "some example embodiments," "one example embodiment, or "in an embodiment" in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

The examples discussed herein are examples only and are provided to assist in the explanation of the apparatuses, devices, systems and methods described herein. None of the features or components shown in the drawings or discussed below should be taken as mandatory for any specific implementation of any of these the apparatuses, devices, systems or methods unless specifically designated as mandatory. For ease of reading and clarity, certain components, modules, or methods may be described solely in connection with a specific figure. Any failure to specifically describe a combination or sub-combination of components should not be understood as an indication that any combination or sub-combination is not possible. Also, for any methods described, regardless of whether the method is described in conjunction with a flow diagram, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified or required by context, any explicit or implicit ordering of steps performed in the execution of a method does not imply that those steps must be performed in the order presented but instead may be performed in a different order or in parallel.

Technical solutions to the problems associated with performing proper CPR can be achieved by the systems, apparatuses and methods of the present disclosure. In general, the systems, apparatuses and methods provide a simple and clear, relatively low cost solution to the problem of training students in proper CPR chest compressions. Certain exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are provided herein.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is shown an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus, method and system for training manikin users in proper CPR chest compressions. A CPR training manikin <NUM> is provided. The CPR training manikin <NUM> can have a size and shape of the torso area of a human, including a head <NUM> and a chest <NUM> area. The head and chest area can be operatively configured to generally mimic a human head <NUM>, chest <NUM>, respiratory and cardiopulmonary morphology. In general, the CPR training manikin <NUM> can comprise multiple external and internal components, and can have an outer surface that has the look, feel, and shape of the skin of a human. The CPR training manikin <NUM> can include relevant anatomical landmarks, including the sternum, rib cage, sternal notch, and the xyphoid process. The manikin can be vinyl and latex free, being made of relatively durable, lightweight materials. The manikin can have a clamshell opening configuration (as shown below) for easy access to internal components. An example of a manikin that can be improved by the apparatuses, systems, and methods of the present disclosure is the PRESTAN ULTRALITE® Manikin available from MCR Medical Supply Inc.

The CPR training manikin <NUM> has a lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM>, a portion of which, namely a cord assembly <NUM>, can extend from the interior of the CPR training manikin <NUM> through a portion of the torso of the manikin defining a manikin opening <NUM> and be visible externally, as shown in <FIG>. The cord assembly <NUM> extends through a portion of the manikin defining a manikin opening <NUM> from a connector member <NUM> at a proximal cord assembly end <NUM> (described below) electrically connected to the base member <NUM> of the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM> (described below) to a distal cord assembly end <NUM> which can comprise a light member <NUM>, such as a light bulb, light emitting diode (LED), or other lightable member that can be activated to be a visually perceptible signal to a user of the CPR training manikin <NUM>. <FIG> is a top view of the CPR training manikin <NUM>. <FIG> is a top view of the CPR training manikin. <FIG> is a right side elevation view of the CPR training manikin <NUM>. <FIG> is a bottom, e.g., back, view of the CPR training manikin <NUM> showing an example placement of the base member <NUM> of the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM>. The base member <NUM> can fit into, be attached to, or otherwise joined to the manikin body in a fixed position. In an embodiment, the base member <NUM> fits into complementary molded features of the CPR training manikin <NUM>. In general, the CPR training manikin <NUM> can have any of various molded features such as ribs <NUM> for structural support and strength, hinges <NUM> for hinged movement of various portions, and other features.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is shown a lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM> of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM> is shown with the base member <NUM> internally disposed generally centrally to the chest <NUM> portion of the CPR training manikin <NUM>. The lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM> is operatively connected to a chest compression assembly <NUM> of the CPR training manikin <NUM>, which can be considered a piston assembly. The chest compression assembly <NUM> can be the piston assembly that has disposed therein one or more springs which can be compressed by the user being trained in CPR training on the CPR training manikin <NUM>. In an embodiment, an existing piston assembly in an existing manikin can be replaced by the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM> of the present disclosure, which includes the chest compression assembly <NUM>. Compressions can be electrically detected and analyzed, processed, or otherwise used in feedback to the user via the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM>, which can provide feedback via the light member <NUM>, which can be a single LED. Thus, the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM> can provide for a relatively low cost remote visual feedback mechanism or module to a cardiopulmonary resuscitation manikin training device. In an embodiment, the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM> can be added to an existing CPR training manikin as an aftermarket add-on. In the illustrated embodiment, a remote visual feedback mechanism uses a single LED that is electrically connected to a piston or other compression assembly of the CPR manikin training device. In an embodiment, the chest compression assembly <NUM> is provided to support and resist chest compressions performed by a user or trainee. The chest compression assembly can be engaged with a chest plate <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) of a torso body of a CPR training manikin and can use a spring to provide a predetermined amount of total pressure resistance during compressions. The chest compression assembly can have an outer sleeve <NUM>, one or more telescoping inner sleeves <NUM>, a spring <NUM> (shown in <FIG>), and a cap (not shown) which can secure the chest compression assembly <NUM> components in position.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is shown two cross-sectional representations of example chest compression assembly <NUM> and the base member <NUM> of the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM>. As described more fully below, the chest compression assembly <NUM>, or a portion thereof, can be electrically connected to the base member <NUM>, such as via a printed circuit board, such that upon compression of the chest compression assembly <NUM> a predetermined sufficient distance, an electrical connection is made. The electrical connection can be utilized in providing feedback to the user, such as via the light member <NUM> which can light with each proper compression. In an embodiment, the light member can light in colors signifying predetermined compression conditions, such as less than ideal compression, proper compression, and greater than proper compression. In an embodiment, the light member can be lighted to signify a predetermined number of sequential, proper chest compressions. Thus, the light member, e.g., LED of the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM> can illuminate in predetermined and desired color(s) or predetermined and desired pattern(s) to monitor and report when the proper compression rate or rate and/or compression depth is achieved on the interconnected chest compression assembly by the student. Additional features which may be monitored and reported by the rate monitor assembly include hand placement, speed and/or volume of ventilations, and depth and speed of recoil following compressions. While a single multicolored LED is preferred, where additional reporting features require it, multiple LEDs may be provided to communicate using combinations of colors and/or patterns. The rate monitor assembly includes a cord assembly with the LED being located on the extreme end of the interconnected cord assembly to provide a large viewing angle. The rate monitor cord assembly can be plugged into a piston or other compression assembly, and then extended out and away from the torso of the manikin so that it is visible to both the student and the instructor during a training scenario. Alternatively, a clip device may be used with the LED to secure the LED to the manikin training device during a training session.

The rate monitor assembly is not directional nor does it need to be oriented in a certain direction, as it is viewed from any angle during the training session when extended from the torso and positioned above or around the shoulder area of the torso. When training is complete, the durable cord assembly can remain attached to the piston assembly and stored with or within the piston assembly, or it can be completely detached and stored separately.

Referring now to <FIG>, there are shown various views of portion of torso of a CPR training manikin <NUM>, including the chest <NUM> in which the outer skin layer of the CPR training manikin <NUM> is removed, and a portion of the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM>, namely, the cord assembly <NUM>, is illustrated. <FIG> shows a perspective view torso of a CPR training manikin <NUM>, including the chest <NUM> in which the outer skin layer of the CPR training manikin <NUM> is removed, and a portion of the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM>, namely, the cord assembly <NUM>. <FIG> shows a top end view of the CPR training manikin torso shown in <FIG>. <FIG> shows a top view of the CPR training manikin torso shown in <FIG>. <FIG> shows a right side view of the CPR training manikin torso shown in <FIG>. <FIG> shows a bottom view of the CPR training manikin torso shown in <FIG>.

Referring now to <FIG>, the lighted rate monitor assembly is illustrated with parts numbered <NUM>-<NUM> to correspond to the bill of materials shown in <FIG>. That is, in addition to the numbering provided in the description herein, certain components are numbered particularly as being keyed to the bill of materials of <FIG>. <FIG> shows a representative lighted rate monitor assembly in various stages of assembly, with a final assembly shown in <FIG>. Additional depictions of a lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM> with an associated cord assembly <NUM> are shown in <FIG>, below. The lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM> may be provided in connection with a CPR manikin piston or chest compression assembly <NUM> mechanism, including an electronic printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) <NUM> which is able to read and calculate inputs from various sensors, switches or input devices within the chest compression assembly <NUM>, as well as provide a battery compartment <NUM> for housing and supplying power to the lighted rate monitor assembly. Alternatively, any sensors, switches or electrical connections may be housed within the piston or chest compression assembly <NUM> mechanism, and the PCBA <NUM> and associated memory may be formed as part of the cord assembly <NUM>, where data output is received from the sensors and switches and calculations are made prior to reporting. The sensors or input devices preferably detect at least the rate and depth of compressions performed on the compression assembly, but may likewise provide visual and/or audio signals of use and programming aspects of the rate monitor assembly. As previously discussed, additional performance detection of hand placement, speed and/or volume of ventilations, and depth and speed of recoil may also be detected, monitored and reported.

Referring now to <FIG> there is shown depictions of a representative cord assembly <NUM>. The cord assembly <NUM> can have a connector member <NUM> joined to a proximal cord assembly end <NUM>. The connector member <NUM> can be configured with electrical contacts <NUM> to engage and operationally connect the light member <NUM> to the PCBA <NUM> via a connector port <NUM> in the base member <NUM>. The cord assembly <NUM> can have a light member <NUM> be electrically operationally configuration at a distal cord assembly end <NUM> of the cord assembly <NUM>. A placement clip <NUM> can be disposed at or near the distal cord assembly end <NUM>, and can be used to clip the light in a user-visible position during operation of the CPR training manikin. Cross-sectional and exploded depictions of the representative cord assembly of <FIG> are shown in <FIG>.

Referring now to <FIG> there is shown various views of a lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM>, including showing the various positions and routings of a cord assembly <NUM>. Various features are illustrated. For example, as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the distal cord assembly end <NUM> and/or the light member <NUM> can fit into a pocket <NUM> of the base member <NUM> for storage.

<FIG> illustrates a schematic showing an example embodiment of electronic components and operations of the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM>.

To use the lighted rate monitor assembly <NUM>, the cord assembly <NUM> is plugged into the base member <NUM>, which can also be considered as the piston assembly, i.e., chest compression member, and electrically connected to the PCBA <NUM> to receive output signals from the PCBA <NUM>. The cord assembly <NUM> has a length that is sufficient to extend from the piston assembly, under the manikin or torso assembly, and/or out an manikin opening <NUM> along the perimeter of the manikin or torso, preferably to a position on the floor or work surface supporting the manikin in the proximity of the shoulder area of the manikin torso. The cord assembly <NUM> includes a connector member <NUM>, i.e., a plug end, that would be in electrical communication with an inlet feature <NUM> on one of the base member and the piston assembly, e.g., the chest compression assembly <NUM>. The LED is on an opposite end of the cord assembly, which can flash one or various colors and/or in various desired patterns to show real time feedback of the CPR compression rate and depth being administered by a student on the CPR training manikin <NUM>. The LED is housed or encapsulated in plastic or vinyl, and also preferably provides a lens covering the LED, which not only insulates the electrical connections and enhances the light emanating from the LED through the lens, but also provides protection for the LED from damage during transit or use. The lens covering the LED or the housing for the LED may include a clip feature for securing attachment of the LED to a desired location during use of the rate monitor assembly.

In a second embodiment of the cord assembly, a bare LED bulb is used, thus eliminating the lens feature that helps with the distribution of the light emanating from the LED, but increases cost.

In a third embodiment of the rate monitor assembly, the PCB assembly consists of multiple surface mount LEDs arranged around the perimeter of the PCB to illuminate the perimeter and areas surrounding the assembly. The fixed LEDs would be located adjacent to translucent material formed as a portion of the housing, or manikin torso or head, that would act as a lens to enable improved light transmission from the fixed LEDs through any translucent or transparent portions.

In an embodiment, the cord assembly <NUM> may be either permanently attached via flexible cord, or may be removable using a mating outlet on the piston assembly which receives the plug on the flexible cord assembly. Visual feedback provided via a multicolored LED enables the use of various colors or flashing of the LED in various patterns to communicate the status of the device.

The lighted rate monitor assembly has been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the assembly have been shown. Indeed, this assembly may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirement. As previously described, the lighted rate monitor assembly is provided in connection with a compression assembly for a CPR manikin training device to provide a low cost remote visual feedback mechanism for a CPR training manikin. To detect the appropriate compression depth performed by a user, an audible sound clicker is provided, components of which are shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

To detect or monitor and report to a user their rate of compressions performed on the CPR training manikin, sensors on the PCB assembly signal a single multi-colored LED electrically connected to the piston or other compression assembly of the CPR manikin training device, to report the rate of compressions per minute ("CPM") by having the LED display the solid or flashing colors described, by way of non-limiting example, below:.

Claim 1:
A CPR training manikin (<NUM>) having size and shape of a torso area of a human, the CPR training manikin (<NUM>) comprising:
a lighted rate monitor assembly (<NUM>) including:
a base member (<NUM>), the base member (<NUM>) including an electronic control board;
a chest compression assembly (<NUM>) joined to the base member, the chest compression assembly (<NUM>) comprising input devices electrically connected to the electronic control board; and
a cord assembly (<NUM>) at a proximal cord assembly end (<NUM>) for electrical connection with the electronic control board, and having a light (<NUM>) at a distal cord assembly end (<NUM>),
characterized in that
the cord assembly (<NUM>) has a plug member (<NUM>) for removable electrical connection with the electronic control board,
the CPR training manikin (<NUM>) further comprises a torso portion, a portion of the torso portion defining a manikin opening (<NUM>) through which the cord assembly (<NUM>), extending from the interior of the CPR training manikin (<NUM>) to be visible externally, traverses between the proximal cord assembly end (<NUM>) and the distal cord assembly end (<NUM>), and
the light (<NUM>) is housed within a light housing having a transparent lens portion covering the light (<NUM>) and including a placement clip (<NUM>) disposed at or near the distal cord assembly end (<NUM>) allowing the light (<NUM>) to be clipped in a user-visible position during operation of the CPR training manikin (<NUM>), wherein the base member (<NUM>) further includes a pocket (<NUM>) into which the light (<NUM>) and/or distal cord assembly end (<NUM>) can be fit for storing.