WO2025253403A1

WO2025253403A1 - A device for blood vessel imaging and a needle insertion and an operating method thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2025253403A1
Application number: PCT/IN2025/050828
Authority: WO
Inventors: Bithul K; Sanchari Mondal; Manish Arora
Original assignee: Indian Institute of Science IISC
Current assignee: Indian Institute of Science IISC
Priority date: 2024-06-04
Filing date: 2025-06-02
Publication date: 2025-12-11
Anticipated expiration: 2026-12-04

Abstract

Present disclosure relates to a device (100) for blood vessel imaging and a needle insertion. The device comprises a body (102) defined with a base (104) and at least one column (106) extending away from the base. A housing (126) is fixedly connected to the at least one column proximate to the base. At least one jig (114) is slidably connected to the housing (126) and is configured to accommodate at least one needle (116) displaceable between a first position (FP) and a second position (SP) with respect to the base. A first actuation mechanism (118) is disposed within the housing. The first actuation mechanism is configured to displace the at least one jig between the first position and the second position. A second actuation mechanism (120) is disposed within the body and is configured to angularly displace the at least one jig relative to the base.

Description

A DEVICE FOR BLOOD VESSEL IMAGING AND A NEEDLE INSERTION AND AN OPERATING METHOD THEREOF TECHNICAL FIELD Present disclosure generally relates to a field of medical devices. Particularly, but not exclusively the present disclosure relates to a device to assist in peripheral intravenous access and capable of performing blood vessel imaging, needle insertion and blood 5 flashback detection based on the requirement. BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE Intravenous (IV) cannulation is a technique in which a cannula is placed inside a vein to provide access to veins for sampling blood, as well as administration of fluids, medications,0 parenteral nutrition, etc. This process is also known as venipuncture and is a common clinical routine in medical practice. Several challenges may be encountered to find a suitable venipuncture site, specifically in patients having dark skin tone or a high body mass index. This causes visibility issues and leads to failed attempts to find the vein and may require multiple re-pricks which may be painful and inconvenient to the patient. Other5 reasons include unexpected movement of the patient or clinician operating the cannula, and also movement of the vein due to pressure applied by a needle tip causing the vein to deform. Conventionally, ultrasonic instruments may be used to determine the location and direction of the vessel to be penetrated for preventing the complications during venipuncture. 0 However, such devices are bulky and require skilled human operators to perform the detection of the vein. Other systems may include robotic instruments which are mounted on tabletop and includes a robotic arm to insert a needle. However, these robotic systems are too large for portable use and may only be used for peripheral venous access and cannot be used to cannulate more challenging veins. Therefore, a need exists for developments of5 a potable intravenous access device that not only images veins but also assists with needle alignment and insertion, aiming to ensure first-prick accuracy. 2 The present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations stated above or any other limitations associated with the prior arts. SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE One or more shortcomings of existing peripheral intravenous access devices have been overcome, and additional advantages are provided through a device as claimed in the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure. The limitations of the prior arts are addressed to a great extent by the device with its configuration and its functionality as disclosed in the present disclosure. The present disclosure discloses a device for blood vessel imaging and a needle insertion. The device comprises a body defined with a base and at least one column extending away from the base. A housing is movably connected to the at least one column proximate to the base. At least one jig is slidably connected to the housing. The at least one jig is configured to accommodate at least one needle displaceable between a first position and a second position with respect to the base. A first actuation mechanism is disposed within the housing at one end and the first actuation mechanism is configured to displace the at least one jig between the first position and the second position. A second actuation mechanism is disposed within the body and connected to the base and is configured to angularly displace the at least one jig relative to the base. In an embodiment, the device comprises a front panel movably connected to the body at one end and is defined with at least one provision, wherein the front panel is displaced with respect to the housing to access a portion of a skin of the user. In an embodiment, the device comprises at least one imaging device disposed within the front panel, wherein the at least one imaging device is configured to capture one or more images of the blood vessel of a user.

3 In an embodiment, the device comprises at least one display unit removably mounted within the at least one provision of the front panel, wherein the at least one display unit is configured to display one or more images captured by the imaging device. In an embodiment, the at least one column extends upwardly from the base and the at least one column is defined with at least one groove. In an embodiment, the housing is defined with a plurality of first provisions at one end to receive a plurality of linear guides. In an embodiment, the first actuation mechanism comprises a holder connected to a bottom portion of the housing. The holder is slidably disposed about the housing in a longitudinal direction along an axis. At least one first actuator is disposed within the housing and connected to the holder. The at least one first actuator is configured to linearly displace the holder about the housing. The at least one jig is connected to the holder for displacement of the at least one needle between the first position and the second position upon actuation of the at least one first actuator. In an embodiment, the second actuation mechanism comprises at least one first support member disposed within the at least one groove of the at least one column. The at least one first support member is positioned at a first predetermined angle with respect to the base. At least one first slider is mounted on the at least one first support member and is configured to slide on the at least one first support member. At least one second support member is disposed within the at least one groove of the at least one column. The at least one second support member is positioned at a second predetermined angle with respect to the base. At least one second slider is mounted on the at least one second support member and is configured to slide on the at least one second support member. At least one second actuator is angularly disposed with respect to the base and connected to the at least one first slider. The at least one second actuator is configured to displace the at least one first and second sliders towards the base. The at least one second actuator is configured to angularly displace the at least one jig relative to the base.

4 In an embodiment, the second actuation mechanism comprises a connecting plate pivotally connected to the at least one first and second sliders to simultaneously actuate the first and second pairs of sliders for angular displacement of the at least one jig. In an embodiment, the second actuation mechanism extends along a length of the at least one column. In an embodiment, the at least one jig comprises a casing to accommodate the at least one needle. A channel is defined on a bottom surface of the at least one jig in a longitudinal direction; wherein the channel is configured to receive a conduit. At least two apertures are defined centrally on the bottom surface proximate to the channel. The at least two apertures are configured to receive at least one transmitter and at least one receiver positioned opposite to each other. The at least one transmitter is configured to transmit one or more signals and the at least one receiver is configured to receive the one or more signals generated by the at least one transmitter. In an embodiment, the at least one receiver is configured to receive a first signal from the at least one transmitter upon displacement of the at least one jig to the second position. The at least one receiver is also configured to receive a second signal from the at least one transmitter upon flow of fluid within the channel of the at least one jig. In an embodiment, the at least one jig is disposed at an angular range of about 10° to 85° with respect to the base. In an embodiment, the device comprises a control unit communicatively coupled with the at least one first actuator, the at least one second actuator, the at least one transmitter and the at least one receiver. The control unit is configured to selectively actuate the at least one first actuator to displace the at least one jig from the first position to the second position. In an embodiment, the at least one jig is positioned in the angular range of 1° to 5° with respect to the base after the angular displacement of the at least one jig from the second position.

5 In an embodiment, the device comprises a third actuation mechanism disposed in the housing and connected to the at least one jig. The third actuation mechanism is configured to vertically displace the at least one jig with respect to the base. In an embodiment, the first actuation mechanism and the second actuation mechanism comprises a linear actuator. In an embodiment, the base is secured on a body of a user by at least one of a belt or a strap for blood vessel imaging and needle insertion. In one non-limiting embodiment, the present disclosure also discloses a method for operating a device for blood vessel imaging and needle insertion. The method comprises of aligning the device over a body of a user. An imaging device captures an image of a vein of the user to along and position least one needle in-line with the vein of the user. The imaging device is disposed within the body of the device and the at least one jig is slidably connected to at least two columns extending from the base of the body. Later an actuation signal is provided by the user to perform insertion of the at least one needle into a portion of the hand of the user. The at least one needle is disposed within the at least one jig. The method further comprises of actuating, by a control unit, at least one first actuator to linearly displace the at least one jig from a first position to a second position. Followed by detecting, by the control unit, a second signal from at least one receiver corresponding to a flow of fluid within a conduit positioned within the at least one jig. Further, the control unit actuates at least one second actuator to angularly displace the at least one jig towards the base. The control unit de-actuates the at least one second actuator to retract the at least one jig away from the base. Lastly, the control unit de-actuates the at least one first actuator to displace the at least one jig from the second position to the first position. It is to be understood that the aspects and embodiments of the disclosure described above may be used in any combination with each other. Several of the aspects and embodiments may be combined together to form a further embodiment of the disclosure. The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further

6 aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS The novel features and characteristic of the disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which: Fig. 1a illustrates a perspective view of a device for blood vessel imaging and a needle insertion, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 1b illustrates a sectional view of the device of Fig. 1 depicting at least one jig, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figs. 2 illustrates an exploded view of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.3a illustrates a perspective view of at least one display unit of the device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.3b illustrates a side view of a front panel of the device accommodating the at least one display unit and at least one imaging device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.4 illustrates a sectional side view of the Fig.1 in a first position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 5a illustrates a sectional side view of the Fig. 1 in a second position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

7 Fig. 5b illustrates a perspective view of the Fig. 5a in a second position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a second actuation mechanism of the device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.7 illustrates a sectional side view of FIG.1 depicting the second actuation mechanism of the device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.8 illustrates a sectional side view of FIG.1 depicting the second actuation mechanism of the device in an actuated position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.9 illustrates an exploded view of the at least one jig, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the at least one jig, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 11 is a block diagram of a method of operating the device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 12 illustrates a block diagram depicting the connections of control unit with the components of the device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figs.13a and Figs.13b illustrates a perspective views of the device of Fig.1 with a third actuation mechanism, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the apparatus and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

8 DETAILED DESCRIPTION While the embodiments in the disclosure are subject to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the figures and will be described below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternative falling within the scope of the disclosure. It is to be noted that a person skilled in the art would be motivated from the present disclosure and modify construction of a device for blood vessel imaging and needle insertion. However, such modifications should be construed within the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings show only those specific details that are pertinent to understand the embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein. The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof used in the disclosure, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusions, such that a device and a method that comprises a list of components does not include only those components but may include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such device and the system. In other words, one or more elements in the device or the method proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the device or the system. The present disclosure relates to a device for blood vessel imaging and a needle insertion for venipuncture. Conventionally, venipuncture is manually performed by clinicians in which a cannula is positioned inside a vein to provide access to veins for sampling of blood, as well as administration of fluids, medications, parenteral nutrition, etc. Several challenges may be encountered to find a suitable venipuncture site, specifically in patients having a dark skin done or a high body mass index. This causes failed attempts to find the vein and may require multiple re-pricks which may be painful and inconvenient to the patient. Other reasons include unexpected movement of the patient or clinician operating the cannula, and

9 also movement of the vein due to pressure applied by a needle tip causing the vein to deform. Some of the devices such as ultrasonic instruments may be used to determine the location and direction of the vessel to be penetrated for preventing the complications during venipuncture. However, such devices are bulky and require skilled human operators to perform the detection of the vein. Other systems may include robotic instruments which are mounted on tabletop and includes a robotic arm to insert a needle. However, these robotic systems are too large for portable use and may only be used for peripheral venous access and cannot be used to cannulate more challenging veins. In view of the above, the present disclosure discloses a device for blood vessel imaging and a needle insertion. The device comprises a body defined with a base and at least one column extending away from the base. A housing is fixedly connected to the at least one column proximate to the base. At least one jig is slidably connected to the housing. The at least one jig is configured to accommodate at least one needle displaceable between a first position and a second position with respect to the base. A first actuation mechanism is disposed within the housing at one end and the first actuation mechanism is configured to displace the at least one jig between the first position and the second position. A second actuation mechanism is disposed within the body and connected to the base and is configured to angularly displace the at least one jig relative to the base. The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure in detail with reference to Figs. 1a to 5b. In the figures, the same element or elements which have similar functions are indicated by the same reference signs. Referring to Figs. 1a, 1b, 3a and 3b which illustrates a device for blood vessel imaging and a needle insertion [hereinafter referred to as the “device (100)”]. The device (100) comprises a body (102) defined with a base (104) and at least one column (106) extending away from the base (104). The at least one column (106) may be defined with at least one groove (106a) to accommodate an actuation mechanism. The body (102) also comprises a frame structure (108) extending arcuately from the base (104) towards a top portion (TP) of the body (102). The frame structure (108) includes a bed member (108a) connected to the base (104) of the body (102). The bed member (108a) is defined with a plurality of

10 fastening holes (108d) to receive fasteners (not shown in Figs.) to secure the frame structure (108) to the base (104). At least two arcuate members (108b) extends upwardly from the bed member (108a). A rod (108c) is connected to the at least two arcuate members (108b) at one end. The frame structure (108) is defined with a first fastening holes (111) at the one end of the at least two arcuate members (108b). A front panel (110) is movably connected to the frame structure (108). The front panel (110) is defined with a platform (110a) and at least two sidewalls (110b) extending from either ends of the platform (110a) to define at least one provision (113) within the front panel (110). The at least two sidewalls (110b) extend angularly with respect to the platform (110a) and defined with a second fastening holes (110c). The second fastening holes (110c) are aligned with the first fastening holes (111) to receive at least one fastener to pivotally connect the front panel (110) with the frame structure (108). In an embodiment, the at least one fastener may be a screw, a stud or a nut and bolt. At least one imaging device (109) may be connected to the platform (110a) at a bottom portion of the front panel (110). The at least one imaging device (109) is configured to capture images of a hand (not shown in Figs.) of a user while operating the device (100). In an embodiment, the at least one imaging device (109) may include camera such as near-infrared cameras capable of capturing infrared images to clearly visualize a position of vein of the user. At least one display unit (112) is disposed within the at least one provision (113) and supported by the at least two sidewalls (110b). In an embodiment, the at least two sidewalls (110b) and the at least one display unit (112) may be snugly fitted to each other or by using any suitable fastening means. The at least one display unit (112) is communicatively coupled to the at least one imaging device (109) and display one or more images or videos captured by the at least one imaging device (109) in real time. In an embodiment, the at least one display unit (112) may include a light emitting diode (LED) or a liquid crystal display (LCD) display screen. In an embodiment, the front panel (110) may be displaced with respect to the frame structure (108) of the housing (126) to access a skin portion of the user’s hand. In an embodiment, the front panel (110) may be slidably connected to the frame structure (108) based on the requirement. In some embodiments, the front panel (110) may be removably connected to the frame structure (108). In some embodiments, the front panel (110) may be rotated with respect to the housing (126) to a required position.

11 Referring to Fig.2, a housing (126) is movably connected to the at least one column (106) at one end and is tiltable at another end with respect to the base (104). The housing (126) includes a top plate (126a) and two side plates (126b) extending downwardly from the top plate (126a) to form an enclosure (126c). Each side plate (126b) is defined with a slot (127) to receive a connecting plate (148). At least one tab (129) extends from each side plate (126b) towards each other near a front end of the housing (126). Each of the at least one tab (129) is defined with at least one first provision (131) to receive and support at least one guide bar (128) within the housing (126). In an embodiment, the housing (126) may be secured to the at least one column (106) by a suitable fastening process such as but not limited to screwing, riveting, welding etc. In an embodiment, the housing (126) may be snugly fitted to the at least one column (106). The housing (126) is configured to receive at least one jig (114) within the enclosure (126c). In an embodiment, the housing (126) may be pivotally connected to the at least one column (106) with at least two pivot points to displace the housing in a required direction with respect to the at least one column (106). The at least one jig (114) is slidably disposed within the housing (126). The at least one jig (114) comprises a casing (150) to accommodate the at least one needle (116). At least one flange (115) is defined on a top surface (114a) of the at least one jig (114). In an embodiment, the at least one flange (115) may be structured in a T-shape or L-shaped cross-section. A channel (152) is defined on a bottom surface (114b) of the at least one jig (114) (as shown in Fig.10). The channel (152) extends in a longitudinal direction of the at least one jig (114) and is configured to receive a conduit (117) or a tubing. In an embodiment, the channel may be designed in any shape such as linear, curved or a zig-zag shape based on the requirement. The conduit (117) is connected to the at least one needle (116). In an embodiment, the at least one needle (116) may be a butterfly needle having couple of wings (116a) attached to the conduit (117) of the at least one needle (116). However, this cannot be construed as a limitation and any standard needle may be used based on the requirement. The wings (116a) of the butterfly needle are held within the casing (150) to secure the at least one needle (116) at a central position of the at least one jig (114). The at least one needle (116) is used to cannulate a vein (not shown in Figs.) of the user for sampling of blood during venipuncture and the blood is received and collected within the conduit (117). Further, at least two apertures (154, 155) are centrally defined on

12 the bottom surface (114b) of the at least one jig (114) proximate to the channel (152). Each aperture of the at least two apertures (154, 155) are configured to receive at least one transmitter (158) and at least one receiver (160). The at least one transmitter (158) and the at least one receiver (160) are oriented opposite to each other. The at least one transmitter (158) is configured to transmit one or more signals at a predefined frequency. The at least one receiver (160) is configured to receive the one or more signals generated by the at least one transmitter (158). A first actuation mechanism is disposed within the housing (126) and configure to displace the at least one jig (114) between a first position (FP) and a second position (SP). Referring to Fig. 4 in conjunction with Fig. 2, the first actuation mechanism (118) comprises a holder (130) slidably disposed within the enclosure (126c) of the housing (126). The holder (130) is defined with at least one edge member (133) extending downwardly from the holder (130) to define a space (131a) below the holder (130) to accommodate the at least one jig (114). The holder (130) is defined with at least one protrusion (not shown in Figs.) on its bottom surface to receive the at least one flange (115) of the at least one jig (114) such that the at least one jig (114) is removably mounted within the holder (130). The holder (130) may be positioned at a predefined angle with respect to the base (104). The predefined angle may be in a range of 10° to 85° with respect to the base. A dummy block (132) is mounted on the holder (130) and extends perpendicularly from the holder (130), wherein the dummy block (132) is defined at least one second provision (132a) aligned with the at least one first provision (131) to receive the plurality of guide bars (128) to movably secure the holder (130) within the housing (126). At least one first actuator (134) is connected to the at least one column (106) and disposed within the housing (126). The at least one first actuator (134) is a linear actuator. In an embodiment, the at least one first actuator (134) includes a motor and a lead screw (135) rotatably connected to the motor. The lead screw (135) is fixed to a portion of the holder (130) such that the actuation of the motor translates the at least one jig (114) with respect to the holder (130). The at least one first actuator (134) is configured to linearly displace the holder (130) about the housing (126) in a longitudinal direction along an axis (A-A) for displacement of the at least one needle (116) between the first position (FP) and the second

13 position (SP). In the first position (FP), the at least one needle (116) is positioned away from the base (104). In the second position (SP), the at least one needle (116) is positioned proximate to the base (104) (as shown in Fig.5a). The linear displacement of the at least one needle (116) is in a range of about 0 to 100 mm. Now referring to Figs.5a, 5b and Fig.6, the device further comprises a second actuation mechanism (120) disposed within the body (102) and connected to the base (104). The second actuation mechanism (120) is configured to angularly displace the at least one jig (114) relative to the base (104). The second actuation mechanism (120) comprises at least one first support member (136) disposed within the at least one groove (106a) of the at least one column (106). The at least one first support member (136) is positioned at a first predetermined angle with respect to the base (104). In an embodiment, the first predetermined angle may be in a range of 50-140 ° or may be selected based on the requirement. At least one first slider (140) is movably mounted on the at least one first support member (136) and is configured to slide on the at least one first support member (136). The at least one first slider (140) is defined with an opening (140a) therethrough to receive the at least one first support rod (136). At least one aperture (140b) is defined on a rear surface of the at least one first slider (140) to receive a rotary bearing (149) having a central opening (149a). In an embodiment, two first sliders (140) are positioned opposite to each other and in contact with both sides of the housing (126). At least one first slider (140) of the two sliders (140) are defined with a projection (141) at its top end. The projection (141) may be a hollow projection having internal threads (not shown in Figs.). At least one second support member (142) is disposed within the at least one groove (106a) of the at least one column (106) and positioned proximate to the at least one first support member (136). The at least one second support member (142) is positioned at a second predetermined angle with respect to the base (104). In an embodiment, the second pre- determined angle may be at least one of an acute angle or a non-acute angle. At least one second slider (144) is mounted on the at least one second support member (142) and is configured to slide on the at least one second support member (142). The at least one second slider (144) is defined with at least one loop (145) on its front surface receivable within the second support member (142). The at least one second slider (144) is also defined with the at least one aperture (140b) to receive the rotary bearing (149). The at

14 least one first slider (140) and the at least one second slider (144) are configured to actuate in tandem with each other by the connecting plate (148). The connecting plate (148) is defined with a connecting surface (148a) and at least two protrusions (148b) extending from the connecting surface (148a). The connecting surface (148a) is disposed within the slot (127) of the holder (130) such that the holder (130) is supported by the connecting plate (148) between the at least one column (106). The at least two protrusions (148b) are engageable within the at least one aperture (140b) of the rotary bearing (149) such that the connecting plate (148) is pivotally connected to the at least one first slider (140) and the at least one second slider (144). The rotary bearing (149) allows actuation of the at least one first slider (140) and the at least one second slider (144) with reduced friction. At least one second actuator (146) is angularly positioned with respect to the base (104) and connected to the at least one first slider (140). The at least one second actuator (146) is a linear actuator. In an embodiment, the at least one second actuator (146) comprises of the motor and the lead screw (135) is rotatably coupled to the motor. The lead screw (135) is disposed within the projection (141) of the at least one first slider (140) such that the at least one first slider (140) follows the movement of the lead screw (135). The actuation of the motor displaces the at least one first slider (140) which in turn angularly displaces the holder (130) about the base (104). The angular movement of the holder (130) further translates the at least one first slider (140) connected to an other end of the holder (130) and also the at least one second slider (144) via the connecting plate (148). This causes the at least one first slider (140) and the at least one second slider (144) to linearly move towards the base (104) simultaneously. The actuation of the at least one second actuator (146) is configured to angularly displace the holder (130) relative to the base (104). In an embodiment, the at least one jig (114) is angularly displaced from 80° up to the angular range of 1° to 5° with respect to the base (104) after the angular displacement of the at least one jig (114) in the second position (SP) (as shown in Figs, 7 and 8). In an embodiment, the lead screw (135) may be connected to the at least one second slider (144) for the displacement of the holder (130). In an embodiment, the first and second support members (136, 142) may be arranged in pairs, each of them being positioned opposite to each other based on the requirement. Now referring to Fig. 12, the device (100) further comprises a control unit (170) communicatively coupled with at least one first actuator (134), the at least one second

15 actuator (146), the at least one transmitter (158) and the at least one receiver (160). The control unit (170) is configured to selectively actuate the at least one first actuator (134) to displace the at least one jig (114) from the first position (FP) to the second position (SP). In an embodiment, the control unit (170) is configured to receive an actuation signal from the user to actuate the at least one jig (114). The control unit (170) is further configured to actuate the at least one first actuator (134) to displace the holder (130) and the at least one jig (114) from the first position (FP) to the second position (SP). The control unit (170) is also configured to detect a change in signal received by the at least one receiver (160) when the at least one jig (114) is in the second position (SP). Upon detection of the change in signal, the control unit (170) actuates the at least one second actuator (146) to actuate the at least one first slider (140) to angularly displace the holder (130) towards the base (104) when the at least one jig (114) is in the second position (SP). The control unit (170) comprises, a processor (not shown in figs.) and a memory unit (not shown in figs.) is communicatively coupled to the processor. The processors can be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrol units, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. The memory unit stores processor-executable instructions, which, on execution, causes the processor to receive one or more command signals associated with the user inputs from a user interface unit (172) of the device. In an embodiment, the user interface unit (172) is coupled to the control unit (170) to receive inputs from the user to perform bold vessel imaging and needle insertion. The inputs received from the user include, but are not limited to, start, stop, reset that are required to perform imaging and needle insertion. In an embodiment can be an input/output device to display graphical information related to soil analysis. The user interface unit (172) displays an indication with respect to quantities of bold sample collected, position of the at least one needle (116) to the user to facilitate efficient use of the device (100). In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the user interface unit (172) may include a variety of software and hardware interfaces, for example, a web interface, a graphical user interface, and the like. A plurality of buttons (not shown in Figs.) may be provided by the user interface unit (172) to generate an actuation signal. The actuation

16 signal is received by the control unit (170) to actuate the at least one first actuator (134) and the second actuator (146). Referring to Fig.11, the present disclosure also disclose a method (200) of operating the device (100) for blood vessel imaging and needle insertion. The method (200) comprises the steps of initially, positioning the device (100) over a hand of the user at step 201. The device (100) is secured on a hand of a user by the at least one of a belt or a strap (not shown in Figs.) for imaging blood vessel and needle insertion. At step (202), the at least one needle (116) is positioned over the vein of the user and the at least one imaging device (109) is turned ON by the control unit (170). The at least one display unit (112) captures images of the blood vessel to determine the position of the at least one needle (116) mounted within the at least one jig (114). The at least one display unit (112) displays a real-time image captured by the at least one imaging device (109). The user determines alignment of the at least one needle (116) in-line with the vein of the user to initiate actuation of the at least one jig (114). At step 203, the user provides an actuation signal to initiate the needle insertion process. In an embodiment, the user may operate the at least one actuation button provided by the user interface unit (172) to generate the actuation signal. At step 204, the control unit (170) actuates the at least one first actuator (134) to linearly displace the at least one jig (114) from the first position (FP) to the second position (SP) along the axis (A-A), such that the at least one needle (116) moves proximate to the base (104) and penetrates the vein of the user. The blood flashes back into the conduit (117) installed within the channel (152) of the at least one jig (114). The control unit (170) receives a first signal from the at least one receiver (160) when the at least one transmitter (158) transmits the one or more signals. Upon detecting the blood flashback within the conduit (117), the at least one receiver (160) receives a second signal which is different from the first signal at step 205. The difference in the second signal to the first signal is due to an interference of the signal with the blood flowing through the conduit (117) during needle insertion process. Upon receiving the second signal from the at least one receiver (160), the control unit (170) actuates the at least one second actuator (146) of the second actuation mechanism (120) to angularly displace the holder (130) such that the at least one jig (114) is tilted with respect to the base (104) to continue the blood flashback or blood flow within the conduit at step 206. After collection of required amount of blood, the control unit (170)

17 de-actuates the at least one second actuator (146) to retract the at least one jig (114) away from the base at step 207. Subsequently, the control unit (170) de-actuates the at least one first actuator (134) of the first actuation mechanism (118) to linearly displace the at least one jig (114) from the second position (SP) to the first position (FP) at step 208. The holder (130) is retracted to its original position by actuating the at least one first actuator (134) by the control unit (170). Lastly, the at least one jig (114) is then removed from the holder (130) and the at least one needle (116) is removed and replaced with another at least one needle (116) to continue the needle insertion process along with the blood vessel imaging. In an embodiment, the at least one first actuator (134) may be figured to displace and position the at least one jig (114) between the first position (FP) and the second position (SP) during the needle insertion process. In an embodiment, the magnitude of displacement of the at least one jig (114) in such conditions may depend on a depth of vein of the user and an initial angle of attack. In another embodiment, the device (100) may comprise a third actuation mechanism (122) to displace the at least one jig (114) at an appropriate height with respect to a hand of the user before the actuation of the at least one first actuator (134) and the at least one second actuator (146) for needle insertion process. Referring to Figs. 13a and 13b, the third actuation mechanism (122) comprises a fixed frame (164) and a movable frame (165) slidably connected to the fixed frame (164). The fixed frame (164) comprises a bottom plate (164a) and at least one pillar (164b) extending from one end of the bottom plate (164a). The at least one pillar (164b) is connected with a third actuator (168) having a third motor (168a) and a lead screw (168b) connected to the third motor (168a). A support pillar (174) extends from the bottom plate (164a) and is positioned parallel to the at least one pillar (164b). The support pillar (174) is defined with a groove (not seen in Figs.) to receive the movable frame (165). The movable frame (165) is defined with a provision (166) to receive the device (100). In an embodiment, the at least one first actuator (134) and the at least one first and second sliders (140, 144) may be disposed within the provision (166) to secure the device (100) to the frame (164). One end of the movable frame (165) is defined with a wedge (167) to be receivable within the groove of the support pillar (174), such that the movable frame (165) is displaced vertically with respect to the bottom plate (164a). A connecting member (176) is connected between the lead screw (168b) and the wedge (167)

18 to displace the movable frame (165) with respect to the fixed frame (164) upon actuation of the third actuator (168). Upon non-actuation of the third actuator (168), the at least one jig (114) will remain in an initial position (IP) which can be seen in Fig. 13a. Upon actuation of the third actuator (168), the at least one jig (114) will be displaced vertically above the bottom plate (164a) to a displaced position (DP) (shown in Fig. 13b) before commencing the needle insertion process. In an embodiment, the user may operate the user interface unit (172) to actuate the third actuation mechanism (122) based on the requirement. In an embodiment, the Control unit (170) may also receive signals from an at least one imaging device (109) to determine a depth of the vein of the user and automatically actuates the third actuator (168) of the third actuation mechanism (122) to position the at least one jig (114) in appropriate location for needle insertion. In an embodiment, the body (102) may be manufactured as a unitary structure integrated with the frame structure (108) connected to the at least one column (106). In an embodiment, the second actuation mechanism (120) may be positioned on either sides of the housing (126) based on the requirement for angular displacement of the housing (126). The second actuation mechanism (120) may extend along a length of the at least one column (106). In an embodiment, at least one first actuator (134) and the at least one second actuator (146) may be a pneumatic actuator and a solenoid actuator for linear and angular displacement of the at least one jig (114). The device (100) of the present disclosure comprises lesser number of components which makes the device compact and thereby reduces cost of manufacture of the device (100). The at least one imaging device (109) along with the first actuation mechanism (118) and the second actuation mechanism (120) of the device (100) enables to accurately detect the vein of the user for venipuncture without requiring multiple attempts.

19 The at least one imaging device (109) of the present disclosure enables to successfully align the at least one needle (116) to detect the vein irrespective of various parameters of the user such as a dark skin tone, high body mass etc. Equivalents: With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity. It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and

20 C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.” While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims. REFERENCE NUMERALS: Device 100 Body 102 Base 104 At least one column 106 At least one groove 106a Frame structure 108 Bed 108a At least two arcuate members 108b Column 108c

21 A plurality of fastening holes 108d At least one imaging device 109 Front panel 110 Platform 110a At least two sidewalls 110b Second fastening holes 110c First fastening holes 111 At least one display unit 112 At least one provision 113 At least one jig 114 Top surface 114a Bottom surface 114b At least one flange 115 At least one needle 116 Wings 116a Conduit 117 First actuation mechanism 118 Second actuation mechanism 120 Third actuation mechanism 122 Housing 126 At least one first provision 126a Two side plates 126b Enclosure 126c A plurality of guide bars 128 At least one tab 129 Holder 130 At least one first provision 131 Space 131a

22 Dummy block 132 At least one second provision 132a At least one edge member 133 at least one first actuator 134 Lead screw 135 At least one first support member 136 At least one first slider 140 Opening 140a At least one aperture 140b Projection 141 At least one second support member 142 At least one second slider 144 At least one loop 145 At least one second actuator 146 Connecting plate 148 Rotary bearing 149 Central opening 149a Casing 150 Channel 152 At least two apertures 154, 155 At least one transmitter 158 At least one receiver 160 Fixed frame 164 Bottom plate 164a At least one pillar 164b Movable frame 165 Provision 166 Wedge 167

23 Third actuator 168 Third motor 168a Lead screw 168b Control unit 170 Support pillar 174 Connecting member 176

24

Claims

Claims: 1_{. A device (100) for blood vessel imaging and a needle insertion, the device (100)} comprising: a body (102) defined with a base (104) and at least one column (106) extending away from the base (104); a housing (126) is movably connected to the at least one column (106) proximate to the base (104); at least one jig (114) slidably connected to the housing (126), wherein the at least one jig (114) is configured to accommodate at least one needle (116) displaceable between a first position (FP) and a second position (SP) with respect to the base (104); a first actuation mechanism (118) disposed within the housing (126) at one end, wherein the first actuation mechanism (118) is configured to displace the at least one jig (114) between the first position (FP) and the second position (SP); and a second actuation mechanism (120) disposed within the body (102) and connected to the base (104), wherein the second actuation mechanism (120) is configured to angularly displace the at least one jig (114) relative to the base (104).

2_{. The device as claimed in claim 1, comprises a front panel (110) movably connected} to the body (102) at one end and is defined with at least one provision (113), wherein the front panel (110) is displaced with respect to the housing (126) to access a portion of a skin of the user.

3_{. The device as claimed in claim 2, comprises at least one imaging device (109)} disposed within the front panel (110), wherein the at least one imaging device (109) is configured to capture one or more images of the blood vessel of a user.

4_{. The device as claimed in claim 2, comprises at least one display unit (112)} removably mounted within the at least one provision (113) of the front panel (110), wherein the at least one display unit (112) is configured to display one or more images captured by the at least one imaging device (109). 25

5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one column (106) extends upwardly from the base (104) and the at least one column (106) is defined with at least one groove (106a).

6. The device as claimed in claim1, wherein the housing (126) is defined with at least one first provision (126a) at one end to receive a plurality of guide bars (128).

7. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first actuation mechanism (118) comprises: a holder (130) connected to a bottom portion of the housing (126), wherein the holder (130) is slidably disposed about the housing (126) in a longitudinal direction along an axis (A-A); at least one first actuator (134) disposed within the housing (126) and connected to the holder (130), wherein the at least one first actuator (134) is configured to linearly displace the holder (130) about the housing (126); and wherein the at least one jig (114) is connected to the holder (130) for displacement of the at least one needle (116) between the first position (FP) and the second position (SP) upon actuation of the at least one first actuator (134).

8. The device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the second actuation mechanism (120) comprises: at least one first support member (136) disposed within the at least one groove (106a) of the at least one column (106), wherein the at least one first support member (136) is positioned at a first predetermined angle with respect to the base (104); at least one first slider (140) mounted on the at least one first support member (136), wherein the at least one first slider (140) is configured to slide on the at least one first support member (136); at least one second support member (142) disposed within the at least one groove (106a) of the at least one column (106), wherein the at least one second support member (142) is positioned at a second predetermined angle with respect to the base (104);

26 at least one second slider (144) mounted on the at least one second support member (142), wherein the at least one second slider (144) is configured to slide on the at least one second support member (142); at least one second actuator (146) angularly disposed with respect to the base (104) and connected to the at least one first slider (140), wherein the at least one second actuator (146) is configured to displace the at least one first and second sliders (140, 144) towards the base (104); and wherein the at least one second actuator (146) is configured to angularly displace the at least one jig (114) relative to the base (104).

9. The device (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the second actuation mechanism (120) comprises a connecting plate (148) is-pivotally- connected to the at least one first and second sliders (140, 144) to simultaneously actuate the first and second pairs of sliders (140, 144) for angular displacement of the at least one jig (114).

10. The device (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the second actuation mechanism (120) extends along a length of the at least one column (106).

11. The device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one jig (114) comprises: a casing (150) to accommodate the at least one needle (116); a channel (152) defined on a bottom surface of the at least one jig (114) in a longitudinal direction; wherein the channel (152) is configured to receive a conduit; at least two apertures (154, 155) defined centrally on the bottom surface proximate to the channel (152), wherein the at least two apertures (154, 155) are configured to receive at least one transmitter (158) and at least one receiver (160) positioned opposite to each other; and wherein the at least one transmitter (158) is configured to transmit one or more signals and the at least one receiver (160) is configured to receive the one or more signals generated by the at least one transmitter (158).

27

12. The device (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the at least one receiver (160) is configured to receive a first signal from the at least one transmitter (158) upon displacement of the at least one jig (114) to the second position (SP) and a second signal from the at least one transmitter (158) upon flow of fluid within the channel (152) of the at least one jig (114).

13. The device (100) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the at least one jig (114) is disposed at an angular range of about 10° to 85° with respect to the base (104).

14. The device (100) as claimed in claim 8, comprises a control unit (170) communicatively coupled with the at least one first actuator (134), the at least one second actuator (146), the at least one transmitter (158) and the at least one receiver (160), wherein the control unit (170) is configured to selectively actuate the at least one first actuator (134) to displace the at least one jig (114) from the first position (FP) to the second position (SP).

15. The device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the at least one jig (114) is positioned in the angular range of 1° to 5° with respect to the base (104) after the angular displacement of the at least one jig (114) from the second position (SP).

16. The device as claimed in claim 1, comprises a third actuation mechanism disposed in the housing (126) and connected to the at least one jig (114), wherein the third actuation mechanism is configured to vertically displace the at least one jig (114) with respect to the base (104).

17. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first actuation mechanism (118) and the second actuation mechanism (120) comprises a linear actuator.

18. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the base (104) is secured on body of a user by at least one of a belt or a strap for blood vessel imaging and needle insertion.

19. A method (200) for operating a device (100) for blood vessel imaging and needle insertion, the method (200) comprises of:

28 positioning the device (100) over a body of a user; capturing an image of a vein by at least one imaging device (109) to align and position the at least one needle (116) in-line with the vein of the user; wherein the at least one imaging device (109) is disposed within the body (102) of the device _{(100) and the at least one jig (114) is slidably connected to at least one column} _{(106) extending from the base (104) of the body (102);} providing, by the user, an actuation signal to perform insertion of the at least one needle (116) into a portion of the hand of the user; wherein the at least one needle (116) is disposed within the at least one jig (114); actuating, by a control unit (170), at least one first actuator (134) to linearly displace the at least one jig (114) from a first position (FP) to a second position (SP); detecting, by the control unit (170), a second signal from at least one receiver _{(160) corresponding to a flow of fluid within a conduit positioned within the at least} one jig (114); actuating, by the control unit (170), at least one second actuator (146) to angularly displace the at least one jig (114) towards the base (104); de-actuating, by the control unit (170), the at least one second actuator (146) to retract the at least one jig (114) away from the base (104); and de-actuating, by the control unit (170), the at least one first actuator (134) to displace the at least one jig (114) from the second position (SP) to the first position (FP). 29