Pressure sensor for ophthalmic surgical console and cartridge

Abstract

A sensor assembly for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cassette is provided. The sensor assembly includes a tube having a first portion and a second portion, a follower assembly operable to engage a retention ring of the surgical cassette coupled with the first portion, a collar on the second portion of the tube operable to fit into a bearing of a pump head of a fluid pump assembly within a surgical console operable to receive the surgical cassette, and a biasing element between the follower assembly and the collar operable to apply a biasing force to the follower assembly to engage the follower with the surgical cassette. The follower assembly includes a sensor component and a follower coupled with a cup.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 594,902, filed October 31, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0002] This section provides background information to help better understand the various aspects of this disclosure. It should be understood that the statements in this section of this document will be read from this perspective and are not intended as an admission of prior art.

[0003] Ophthalmic surgery is generally classified as anterior segment surgery, posterior segment surgery, or a combination of anterior and posterior segment surgery (i.e., "combined surgery"). The anterior segment refers to the frontmost region of the eye, including the cornea, iris, and lens. Therefore, anterior segment surgery typically includes procedures performed on the iris and / or lens, such as cataract surgery. The posterior segment refers to the backmost region of the eye, including the anterior vitreous membrane and the optical structures behind it, such as the vitreous fluid, retina, choroid, and optic nerve. Posterior segment surgery typically includes retinal surgery and vitreoretinal surgery. In some cases, patients may have ocular conditions requiring both anterior and posterior surgery; in such cases, combined surgery may be performed.

[0004] During anterior and / or posterior surgical procedures, tissue debris and other materials can be aspirated or extracted from the eye using, for example, a hollow needle or cannula. Furthermore, during surgery, perfusion or infusion fluids can be pumped into the eye to maintain intraocular pressure (IOP) and prevent eye collapse. A surgical cartridge equipped with one or more peristaltic pumps and / or venturi pumps, along with one or more valve assemblies, can be operatively coupled to the fluid control module of a surgical console and used to facilitate the aforementioned aspiration / extraction and perfusion / infusion functions. Typically, one or more valve assemblies of the surgical cartridge are operable to control the application of pressure and vacuum generated by one or more peristaltic pumps during surgical procedures.

[0005] However, conventional pressure sensing devices in surgical consoles that interact with the surgical cartridge are typically rigidly assembled to a modular structure and sense the deflection of elements on the cartridge. These sensors measure micrometer or submicrometer movements on the element. Thus, due to changes in the relative position between the sensor element and the sensed element, motion, deflection, expansion, and contraction will manifest as sensed pressure changes.

[0006] Therefore, improved sensor assemblies are needed to address at least some of the drawbacks caused by conventional pressure devices. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts further described in the following detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0008] In one embodiment, this document discloses a sensor assembly for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge. The sensor assembly includes: a conduit having a first portion and a second portion; a follower assembly operable to engage a retaining ring of the surgical cartridge coupled to the first portion; a collar located on the second portion of the conduit operable to be fitted into a bearing of a pump head of a fluid pump assembly within a surgical console operable to receive the surgical cartridge; and a biasing element located between the follower assembly and the collar, operable to apply a biasing force to the follower assembly to engage the follower with the surgical cartridge. The follower assembly includes a sensor component and a follower coupled to a cup-shaped component.

[0009] In another embodiment, this document discloses a sensor assembly for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge attached to a surgical console. The sensor assembly includes: a conduit having a first portion and a second portion; a follower assembly operable to engage a retaining ring of the surgical cartridge coupled to the first portion; a collar located on the second portion of the conduit operable to be fitted into a bearing of a pump head of a fluid pump assembly within the surgical console, the surgical console operable to receive the surgical cartridge; and a biasing element located between the follower assembly and the collar, operable to apply a biasing force to the follower assembly to engage the follower with the surgical cartridge. The follower assembly includes a follower coupled to a cup-shaped member and a mechanical stop positioned between the follower and the cup-shaped member. The mechanical stop is located at an end of the first portion of the conduit and includes a first alignment mechanism corresponding to a second alignment mechanism on an inner portion of the cup-shaped member. The follower assembly further includes: a stress reliever positioned between the mechanical stop and the follower; a sensor component having a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) with a coil positioned in the central portion of the follower and adjacent to a portion of the stress reliever; and a PCBA support abutting a PCBA spring. The PCBA contacts a portion of the PCBA support and a portion of the cup-shaped member. Attached Figure Description

[0010] A more complete understanding of the subject matter of this disclosure can be obtained by referring to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1AExamples of ophthalmic surgical systems that can be used to perform ophthalmic surgery on the eye, according to certain embodiments, are shown.

[0012] Figure 1B Demonstrates certain embodiments Figure 1A An example of a subsystem of the console of an ophthalmic surgical system.

[0013] Figure 2A A rear perspective view of a surgical cartridge according to certain embodiments is shown, which can be operatively coupled to the console of an ophthalmic surgical system.

[0014] Figure 2B Demonstrates certain embodiments Figure 2A Rear elevation view of the surgical box.

[0015] Figure 2C According to certain embodiments Figures 2A to 2B An exploded perspective view of the surgical box shows the components, including each one of the pump assembly set within the surgical box.

[0016] Figure 2D The settings according to certain embodiments are shown. Figures 2A to 2C Top view of the retainer ring within the pump assembly of the surgical box.

[0017] Figure 3A Demonstrates sensing according to certain embodiments Figures 2A to 2B A front perspective view of the inductive sensor assembly for fluid pressure in the surgical box.

[0018] Figure 3B Demonstrates certain embodiments Figure 3A A three-dimensional view of the rear side of the inductive sensor assembly.

[0019] Figure 3C Demonstrates certain embodiments Figures 3A to 3B An enlarged view of the inductive sensor assembly.

[0020] Figure 3D Demonstrates certain embodiments Figures 3A to 3C A three-dimensional view of the rear side of the mechanical stop of the inductive sensor assembly.

[0021] Figure 3E Demonstrates certain embodiments Figures 3A to 3C A three-dimensional view of the front of the cup-shaped part of the inductive sensor assembly.

[0022] Figure 4A Demonstrates sensing according to certain embodiments Figures 2A to 2B A front perspective view of the eddy current sensor assembly for fluid pressure in the surgical box.

[0023] Figure 4BDemonstrates certain embodiments Figure 4A A rear perspective view of the eddy current sensor assembly.

[0024] Figure 4C Demonstrates certain embodiments Figures 4A to 4B An enlarged view of the eddy current sensor assembly.

[0025] Figure 4D Demonstrates certain embodiments Figure 4C An exploded view of the eddy current sensor assembly.

[0026] Figure 5A Demonstrates sensing according to certain embodiments Figures 2A to 2B A front perspective view of the optical sensor assembly for fluid pressure in the surgical box.

[0027] Figure 5B Demonstrates certain embodiments Figure 5A A rear-view perspective view of the optical sensor assembly.

[0028] Figure 5C Demonstrates certain embodiments Figures 5A to 5B An enlarged view of the optical sensor assembly.

[0029] Figure 6A A front perspective view of a fluid pump assembly according to certain embodiments is shown, the fluid pump assembly having Figures 3A to 3C Inductive sensor components for sensing Figures 2A to 2B The fluid pressure in the surgical box.

[0030] Figure 6B Demonstrates certain embodiments Figure 6A An enlarged view of the fluid pump assembly.

[0031] Figure 7 Demonstrates certain embodiments Figures 6A to 6B Two fluid pump assemblies, and Figures 2A to 2B A front perspective view of the associated surgical kit, with these fluid pump assemblies shown in Figures 1 to 12. Figure 1B The fluid control subsystem of the surgical console has Figures 4A to 4D Two eddy current sensor components. Detailed Implementation

[0032] It should be understood that the following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples of various features for implementing various embodiments. Specific examples of components and arrangements are described below to simplify this disclosure. Of course, these are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. The section headings used herein are for organizational purposes and should not be construed as limiting the subject matter.

[0033] This disclosure relates to a pressure sensor assembly for a surgical console and surgical cartridge, designed to accurately measure the vacuum and / or pressure of a fluid or gas within the surgical cartridge by measuring the deflection of a diaphragm in contact with the fluid or gas. The embodiments described herein provide improved stability for fluid control measurements by mechanically decoupling the sensor component from the surgical console while simultaneously mechanically coupling the sensor component to the surgical cartridge at the location of the diaphragm. This reduces unwanted relative movement between the diaphragm and the sensor component caused by various phenomena typical of designs, such as vibration, thermal expansion, component deflection, alignment limitations, and mechanical interference.

[0034] In some embodiments, the sensor assembly may have a follower assembly such that the sensor component interacts with the diaphragm via a retention ring on the surgical cassette that engages with the follower of the follower assembly. During clamping of the surgical cassette to the surgical console, the cassette is pulled toward the follower assembly, and the retention ring of the cassette contacts the follower. When the cassette is secured in place, it pushes the follower assembly toward the surgical console. The engagement of the sensor component with the surgical cassette and the disengagement of the sensor component from the surgical console allow the sensor component to follow the surgical cassette as it shifts, vibrates, expands, or contracts during surgical procedures.

[0035] The sensor components may include optical sensors, inductive sensors, eddy current sensors, mechanical force sensors (via strain gauges), etc. When the surgical cartridge is removed, the sensor components are configured to bottom out and align in a position to prepare for another surgical cartridge. This is achieved by using a mechanical stop within the follower assembly.

[0036] Figure 1A An example of an ophthalmic surgical system 10, which can be used to perform ophthalmic surgery on the eye according to certain embodiments, is shown. Figure 1B According to certain embodiments Figure 1A An example of a subsystem of the console 100 of the ophthalmic surgical system 10. For clarity, this document will... Figures 1A to 1BCombined Description. In the illustrated embodiment, the ophthalmic surgical system 10 includes a surgical console 100 having a housing 102, a display screen 104, an interface device 107, a fluid control subsystem 110, a panel 118, and a handpiece 112. The housing 102 houses a computer 103 having an associated display screen 104 and one or more subsystems supporting the interface device 107 and the handpiece 112. The interface device 107 receives input to the ophthalmic surgical system 10, sends output from the ophthalmic surgical system 10, and / or processes input and / or output via the interface subsystem 106. In some embodiments, the interface device 107 may include, but is not limited to, a foot pedal, a manual input device (e.g., a keyboard), a display, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, a barcode reader 120 may be integrated with the surgical console 100 via the interface subsystem 106. In some embodiments, the barcode reader 120 may be configured to capture an image of a barcode on a surgical box attached to the surgical console 100 and map the captured image to the identity or type of the surgical box, and / or map the captured image to stored calibration data of the surgical box.

[0037] In some embodiments, the handpiece 112 can be any suitable ophthalmic surgical instrument, such as an ultrasound-driven phacoemulsification (phaco) handpiece, a laser handpiece, an irrigation cannula, a vitrectomy handpiece, or another suitable surgical handpiece. In different embodiments, the handpiece 112 may include multiple handpieces 112. The handpiece 112 can interact with the ophthalmic surgical system 10 via a handpiece subsystem 116. A fluid control subsystem 110 provides fluid control for the handpiece 112. For example, and not limited to, the fluid control subsystem 110 can manage the fluid used for the irrigation cannula. Typically, the surgical console 100 includes a handpiece subsystem that supports one or more handpieces 112. For example, the handpiece subsystem can manage the ultrasonic oscillations of the phacoemulsification handpiece, provide laser energy to the laser handpiece, control the operation of the irrigation cannula, and / or manage the features of the vitrectomy handpiece.

[0038] The fluid control subsystem 110 includes a pump assembly having sensor assemblies 108 (108a–b) (as shown in Figures 6 to 108a–b). Figure 7 (To be discussed in further detail). Sensor assembly 108 can interact with ophthalmic surgical system 10 via fluid control subsystem 110. Sensor assembly 108 is described in more detail with reference to Figures 3 through 5. In some embodiments, sensor assembly 108 may include optical sensor assembly, inductive sensor assembly, eddy current sensor assembly, etc.

[0039] Computer 103 controls the operation of ophthalmic surgical system 10. Typically, computer 103 includes a processor and memory. Memory may include any means operable for receiving, storing, or retrieving data, including but not limited to electronic, magnetic, or optical memory, whether volatile or non-volatile. Memory may include code stored thereon. Code may include instructions executable by the processor. For example, code may be created using any programming language, including but not limited to C, C++, Java, Python, Rust, or any other programming language (including assembly language, hardware description languages, and database programming languages). In some cases, the code may be a program that, when loaded into the processor, causes surgical console 100 to receive and process information from one or more of subsystems 106, 110, and 116, thereby providing fluid control, for example, to one or more handsets 112 or other devices communicating with surgical console 100.

[0040] The processor may be or include a microprocessor, microcontroller, embedded microcontroller, programmable digital signal processor, or any other programmable device operable to receive information from memory or other means in communication with the processor, computer 103, and / or console 100 and perform one or more operations on the received information. For example, the processor may send instructions to components of the fluid control subsystem 110 or other means or systems in communication with computer 103 to control such means and systems. The processor may also be operable to output results based on the operations it performs. Display screen 104 shows data and other output results provided by the processor of computer 103. In some cases, the processor may also be or include an application-specific integrated circuit, a programmable gate array, programmable array logic, or any other means or combination of means operable to process electrical signals.

[0041] Figure 2A A rear perspective view of a surgical cartridge 200 according to certain embodiments is shown, which can be connected to the console of an ophthalmic surgical system (e.g., Figures 1A to 1B The surgical console 100 of the ophthalmic surgical system 10 shown is operably connected. Figure 2B Demonstrates certain embodiments Figure 2A The rear elevation view of the surgical box 200. For clarity, this article will... Figures 2A to 2B Combined description. Surgical cartridge 200 includes two pump assemblies 202 (202a–b) that provide a pressure source and / or vacuum source for fluid flowing within surgical cartridge 200, and four valve assemblies 204 (204a–d) that control pressure and / or fluid communication within surgical cartridge 200.

[0042] In some other embodiments, there may be only one pump assembly or more than two pump assemblies. In these embodiments, each pump assembly includes a corresponding retaining ring and diaphragm that engage with a corresponding sensor. In some other embodiments, there may be more or fewer than four valve assemblies (e.g., two to six valve assemblies). In some other embodiments, an external pressure source and / or vacuum source (e.g., a Venturi source) may be coupled to the surgical cartridge 200. In such embodiments, the external source may serve as a replacement for or supplement to the pump assembly 202.

[0043] The surgical cartridge 200 has a housing 205, which includes a base 206, a cover 208 coupled to the base 206, and inlet / outlet ports 210 (210a-c) in the base 206, which provide pressure and / or fluid communication between the interior and exterior of the housing 205. Each port 210a-c corresponds to a component of the fluid control subsystem 110 and / or a corresponding handpiece 112a-c. Figures 1A to 1B Fluid lines (e.g., pipes) can be connected between the housing 205 and the rear side 212. A cover 208 is provided on the front side of the housing 205 away from the rear side 212, and a barcode 228 is provided in the window of the rear side 212.

[0044] In some embodiments, one of the first pump assembly 202a or the second pump assembly 202b provides a pressure source (e.g., to generate a driving force for fluid infusion), while the other of the first pump assembly 202a or the second pump assembly 202b provides a vacuum source (e.g., to generate a suction force for fluid aspiration). The first pump assembly 202a and the second pump assembly 202b can be peristaltic pumps or any other suitable type of pump for generating pressure and / or vacuum. In some embodiments, the first pump assembly 202a and the second pump assembly 202b are identical to each other.

[0045] Valve assembly 204 is also coupled to base 206. Valve assembly 204 cooperatively functions to control pressure and / or fluid communication within and through the surgical cartridge 200. In the illustrated embodiment, surgical cartridge 200 includes a first valve assembly 204a, a second valve assembly 204b, a third valve assembly 204c, and a fourth valve assembly 204d. As shown, in Figure 2A In one embodiment, four valve assemblies 204 are arranged at the four corners of the base 206, thereby surrounding the two pump assemblies 202 arranged toward the center of the base 206. However, in some other embodiments, the pump assemblies 202 and valve assemblies 204 may have any other suitable arrangement.

[0046] In some embodiments, valve assembly 204 can be operated to selectively direct fluid flow between multiple internal channels of housing 205. For example, first valve assembly 204a and third valve assembly 204c may be in pressure and / or fluid communication with first pump assembly 202a and port 210a to provide suction (absorption) through port 210a during operation, and second valve assembly 204b and fourth valve assembly 204d may be in pressure and / or fluid communication with second pump assembly 202b and port 210c to provide perfusion (infusion) through port 210c during the same operation. In some embodiments, port 210b may be a drug delivery port configured to receive perfusion and / or infusion fluid to be delivered to the eye via port 210c.

[0047] Pump assembly 202 and valve assembly 204 are located on the rear side 212 of housing 205, which is... Figures 2A to 2B As can be seen, the cover 208 is disposed on the front side of the housing 205 away from the rear side 212. In some embodiments, the cover 208 may be welded, joined, or fastened to the base 206 using any suitable coupling mechanism. For example, the cover 208 may be coupled to the base 206 using solid-state welding techniques (e.g., ultrasonic welding, in which high-frequency ultrasonic acoustic vibrations are locally applied to working parts held together under pressure to form a solid weld). The rear side 212 of the housing 205 is configured to abut against the surgical console 100 when the surgical cartridge 200 is coupled to the surgical console 100. For example, the drive interface on the valve body of each valve assembly 204 may engage the corresponding drive mechanism of the surgical console 100 to rotate the corresponding valve body. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism is a direct-drive motor, which operates with lower torque and faster valve response time compared to conventionally used geared drive motors. However, the embodiments described herein may use any suitable type of drive motor.

[0048] As in Figure 2CAs seen in the exploded view, each pump assembly 202a, 202b is coupled to and disposed around a first well 608a and a second well 608b defined within a base 206. Each well 608a, 608b includes an inlet 610 and an outlet 612 defined therein, which are in fluid communication with an internal channel disposed within the surgical cassette 200. Each pump assembly 202a, 202b includes a pump elastomer 602 disposed around the outer circumference of each well 608a, 608b. Diaphragms 218 (218a-218b) are disposed in the central portion of each well 608a, 608b in a substantially nested or stacked configuration, and are received or disposed below retainer rings 214 (214a-b). In some embodiments, retainer rings 214 are ultrasonically welded to the inner surfaces of cavities 608a, 608, with diaphragms 218 positioned below. The retainer rings 214 thereby hold the diaphragms 218 within each respective cavity 608a, 608b and provide an airtight seal with the base 206. During use, fluid pressure within each cavity 608a, 608b causes deflection of the corresponding diaphragm, which can be detected and measured by sensors on the surgical console 100 to determine the fluid pressure within the internal channels and / or reservoirs of the surgical cartridge 200.

[0049] The retention ring 214 includes mating elements 216 (216a–c and 216a'–c') operable to receive a follower assembly to engage a surgical console (e.g., Figures 1A to 1B The sensor components of the surgical console 100 of the ophthalmic surgical system 10 shown. Diaphragm 218 (218a–b) provides for sensing fluid pressure in the surgical cartridge 200, as described below with respect to Figures 3 to 4. Figure 7 More detailed description. In some embodiments, the mating element 216 may be a cavity, V-groove, crown-shaped mating element, tapered element, flat portion, or combination thereof for receiving a ball (e.g., a spherical mating element), such that the mating element 216 can engage and / or assemble with a corresponding protrusion of the follower assembly. In some embodiments, each mating element 216 may include one of a tapered mating element, a V-groove, and a flat mating element. In other embodiments, each mating element 216 is spaced approximately 120° apart from each other. In other embodiments, the mating element 216 may include three V-grooves aligned toward the center of the respective diaphragm 218.

[0050] In some embodiments, the surgical cartridge 200 may include various internal channels, partitions, ports, surfaces, reservoirs, or fluid bags (e.g., a cavity 608 behind a diaphragm 218 for operation of the surgical cartridge 200). For example, a first valve assembly 204a and a third valve assembly 204c may be in pressure and / or fluid communication with a first pump assembly 202a and port 210a to provide suction (absorption) via a channel provided within the surgical cartridge 200 through port 210a. Additionally and / or alternatively, a second valve assembly 204b and a fourth valve assembly 204d may be in pressure and / or fluid communication with a second pump assembly 202b and port 210c to provide infusion (infusion) via a channel provided within the surgical cartridge 200 through port 210c.

[0051] In some embodiments, the diaphragm 218 can be installed from inside the base 206 of the surgical cartridge 200, and a smaller retaining ring 214 holds the diaphragm 218 in place from inside the base 206. In some embodiments, a lid seals the chamber and passage, and mating features are located on the base 206 of the surgical cartridge 200.

[0052] Figure 2D The settings according to certain embodiments are shown. Figures 2A to 2B A top plan view of the retainer ring within the pump assembly of the surgical cartridge. The retainer ring 214 includes an annular or ring-shaped top surface 220 defined between an outer circumference 221 and an inner circumference 223.

[0053] In some embodiments, the retainer ring 214 includes an inclined or conical surface 226 disposed between the top surface 220 and the inner circumference 223. For example, in some embodiments, the height of the top surface 220 may be higher than the height of the top edge of the inner circumference 223, and therefore the surface 226 may have a negative slope toward the center of the retainer ring 214. The surface 226 may serve as an inlet for a pressure sensor on a surgical console to facilitate proper engagement and alignment between the surgical cassette 200 and the sensor when the surgical cassette 200 is attached to the surgical console (e.g., console 100). In other embodiments, the height of the top surface 220 may be lower than the height of the top edge of the inner circumference 223. In some embodiments, the top surface 220 itself may be inclined and have a negative or positive slope toward the center of the retainer ring 214.

[0054] The top surface 220 is circumferentially surrounded by a raised lip or edge 222. Similar to surface 226, the raised lip or edge 222 can serve as an inlet for a pressure sensor on the surgical console. For example, the raised lip or edge 222 can serve as an inlet for one or more protrusions or mating elements extending from the sensor.

[0055] An orifice 224 is defined at the center and within the inner circumference 223 of the retainer ring 214, allowing a pressure sensor disposed in the surgical console 100 to directly access the surface of the diaphragm 218 disposed beneath the retainer ring 214. As described above, a plurality of mating elements 216 (216a–c) are also defined in the top surface 220. In some embodiments, each of the mating elements 216 includes a different footprint, shape, cross-sectional depth, profile, or coefficient of friction. For example, as... Figure 2D As shown, mating element 216c includes an angled or V-groove shaped cross-sectional profile, while mating element 216b includes a substantially flat cross-sectional profile, and mating element 216a includes a conical cross-sectional profile. Figure 2D A notch 225 is also seen, which is defined within the outer circumference 221 of the retainer ring 214. The notch 225 corresponds to a matching or corresponding shape feature within the cavity, such that when the retainer ring 214 is engaged with the surgical cartridge 200, the retainer ring 214 is properly aligned with the cavity. In some embodiments, the notch 225 comprises a substantially semi-circular or crescent shape; however, in other embodiments, other shapes may be used.

[0056] In some embodiments, the retainer ring 214 is formed of a thermoplastic polymer material that is elastic enough to absorb impact forces in the event of a collision with the pressure sensor or any other part of the surgical console 100, but ductile enough to combine with the diaphragm 218 and provide an hermetically tight seal together with the diaphragm when the retainer ring 214 is attached to the base. For example, the retainer ring 214 is made of a material that is strong enough to withstand the forces associated with ultrasonic welding without breaking or fracturing (and thus compromising any hermetically tight seal between it and the base). In other embodiments, the retainer ring 214 is formed of a suitable material other than a thermoplastic polymer material.

[0057] In some embodiments, the retainer ring 214 is made of a "molded-in" lubricant to provide a desired coefficient of friction across the top surface 220 and within the mating elements 216a-c. This facilitates the positioning of the pressure sensor when attaching the surgical cartridge 200 to the surgical console 100, as the pressure sensor of the surgical console 100 can be moved more easily across the top surface 220 of the retainer ring 214 to its final position above the diaphragm 218. Using a "molded-in" lubricant offers several advantages, including a cleaner manufacturing process, reduced likelihood of lubricant contact with the end user or patient, prevention of unintentional particulate matter adhering to the surface of the retainer ring 214, and ensuring that the lubricant is always in its intended position and in the appropriate amount. In some other embodiments, the lubricant may be applied directly to the top surface 220 in addition to or instead of the retainer ring 214 itself comprising a lubricating material.

[0058] Figure 3A A front perspective view of an inductive sensor assembly 300 for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge 200, according to certain embodiments, is shown. Figure 3B A rear perspective view of an inductive sensor assembly 300 for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge 200, according to certain embodiments, is shown. Figure 3C An enlarged cross-sectional view of an inductive sensor assembly 300 for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge 200, according to certain embodiments, is shown. For clarity, this document will... Figures 3A to 3C Combined descriptions.

[0059] The inductive sensor assembly 300 includes a conduit 302 having a first portion 304. Figure 3C (as shown) and Part 306 ( Figure 3C (As shown). The first portion 304 includes a follower assembly 308 attached to the first portion and operable to engage with the retention ring 214 of the surgical cartridge 200. The follower assembly 308 has a follower 310 coupled to the cup-shaped member 312. In some embodiments, the follower 310 is coupled to the cup-shaped member 312 via screws, welding, press fitting, and / or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the follower 310 and the cup-shaped member 312 are manufactured as a single component. Figures 3A to 3C As further shown, the follower assembly 308 includes a sensor component 314 located in the central portion of the follower 310. Figures 3A to 3C Sensor component 314 as an inductive sensor is shown; however, other types of sensors can be readily conceived and described in further detail herein.

[0060] Returning to the follower assembly 308, the follower 310 includes protrusions 316 (316a–c) that engage with corresponding mating elements 216 of the retention ring 214 of the surgical cartridge 200 to properly align the inductive sensor assembly 300. In some embodiments, the protrusions 316 may be spherical mating elements, V-groove mating elements, crown mating elements, conical mating elements, or combinations thereof, such that the protrusions 316 can engage and / or mate with the corresponding mating elements 216 of the retention ring 214. In other embodiments, the protrusions 316 may alternatively be cavities and / or recesses operable to receive corresponding protruding portions of the retention ring 214. In some embodiments, as a complement to or alternative to the protrusion 316, the follower 310 includes a distal outer surface 227 having at least a partially conical, inclined, or spherical shape, which engages with or slides against a surface 226 at the center of, for example, the retaining ring 214, to properly position the inductive sensor assembly 300 during attachment of the surgical cartridge 200 to the surgical console 100.

[0061] Part Two 306 Figure 3C (As shown) includes a collar 318, which in some embodiments is operable to fit into a bearing of a pump head 640 of a fluid pump assembly within a surgical console 100 operable to receive a surgical cartridge 200. A biasing element 320 is disposed between the follower assembly 308 and the collar 318. The biasing element 320 is operable to apply a biasing force to the follower assembly 308 to facilitate engagement of the follower 308 with the surgical cartridge 200, thereby allowing the follower assembly 308 to be disengaged from the surgical console 100. In some embodiments, the biasing element 320 may include a spring or elastomer. In some embodiments, the biasing element 320 may be a spring formed of high-carbon spring steel, alloy spring steel, stainless steel spring steel, copper-based spring alloy, nickel-based spring alloy, etc. As described herein, “disengagement” of the follower assembly 308 from the surgical console 100 refers to the ability and / or mobility of the follower assembly 308 relative to the surgical console 100. Decoupling the follower assembly 308 from the surgical console 100 allows the sensor components within the follower assembly 308 to follow the diaphragm 218 of the surgical cartridge 200, as described in further detail below. In some other embodiments, the second portion 306 or collar 318 may be directly fitted to the fluid control subsystem 110 or another structural element (such as panel 118) to provide alternative sensor placement options not located at the center of the pump.

[0062] like Figure 3C As shown, the follower assembly 308 includes a mechanical stop 324 positioned between the follower 310 and the cup-shaped member 312. The mechanical stop 324 is located at the end of the first portion 304 of the pipe 302 and includes a first alignment mechanism 326a. Figures 3D to 3E As shown), the first alignment mechanism is aligned with the second alignment mechanism 326b in the inner portion of the cup-shaped member 312. Figures 3D to 3E(As shown). The first alignment mechanism 326a and the corresponding second alignment mechanism 326b are collectively referred to herein as alignment mechanism 326. In some embodiments, when the biasing element 320 is compressed and decompressed, the mechanical stop 324 is positioned between the follower 310 and the cup 312, thereby biasing the follower assembly 308 forward. In some embodiments, alignment mechanism 326 may include V-shaped recesses operable to receive each other (i.e., receiving the first alignment mechanism 326a into the second alignment mechanism 326b, and vice versa). In some embodiments, alignment mechanism 326 may include any type of mechanism for maintaining proper alignment between the mechanical stop 324 and the cup 312. Conduit 302 includes cable 322 disposed in conduit to connect sensor component 314 to electronic circuitry to operate sensor component 314. As conduit 302 extends through pump head 640 and the hollow shaft of pump motor and encoder, conduit 302 of inductive sensor assembly 300 protects cable 322, as described below with respect to Figures 6 to 10. Figure 7 Further details are provided. In some other embodiments, the length of the conduit 302 is significantly shorter, and the conduit is connected within the front opening 702 of the fluid control subsystem 110 to allow engagement with the surgical cartridge 200.

[0063] During the clamping of the surgical cassette 200 to the surgical console 100, the surgical cassette 200 is pulled into the follower assembly 308, and the retaining ring 214 of the surgical cassette 200 contacts the follower 310, thereby causing the biasing element 320 to compress the follower assembly 308 and move it toward the surgical console 100. The engagement of the sensor component 314 with the surgical cassette 200 and the disengagement of the sensor component 314 from the surgical console 100 (as provided by the biasing element 320) allow the sensor component 314 to follow the diaphragm 218 of the surgical cassette 200 as the surgical cassette 200 shifts, vibrates, expands, or contracts during surgery. In other words, the disengagement of the sensor component 314 when the surgical cassette 200 is clamped to the surgical console 100 allows the sensor component 314 to be positioned at a constant distance from the base of the diaphragm 218 of the surgical cassette 200. Because the diaphragm 218 deflects due to pressure changes within the cavity 608 behind it, the change in distance between the measuring sensor component 314 and the diaphragm 218 enables consistent, precise, and accurate measurement of the fluid control pressure within the surgical cartridge 200. When the surgical cartridge 200 is removed, the sensor component 314 is configured to bottom out and align in a position ready for another surgical cartridge 200. This is achieved using a mechanical stop 324 disposed within the follower assembly 308.

[0064] In some embodiments, the inductive sensor assembly 300 is positioned at the center of the fluid pump assembly, as described below with respect to Figures 6 to 7. Figure 7To describe in further detail, the diaphragm 218 is positioned at the center of the pump assembly 202 of the surgical cartridge 200 to minimize the size of both the surgical cartridge 200 and the fluid control subsystem 110 of the surgical console 100. The inductive sensor assembly 300 is held concentrically with the pump head 640 via a bearing 636 to allow the pump head 640 to rotate while keeping the sensor assembly relatively stationary, as described below with respect to Figures 6 to 10. Figure 7 To describe in further detail.

[0065] Figure 3D A rear perspective view of the mechanical stop 324 is shown. Figure 3E A front perspective view of the cup-shaped component 312 is shown. For clarity, this article will... Figures 3D to 3E Combined description. The mechanical stop 324 includes a first alignment mechanism 326a, a third alignment mechanism 326c, a fifth alignment mechanism 326e, and a seventh alignment mechanism 326g, which correspond to the corresponding second alignment mechanism 326b, a corresponding fourth alignment mechanism 326d, a corresponding sixth alignment mechanism 326f, and an eighth alignment mechanism 326h of the inner portion of the cup-shaped member 312 (these alignment mechanisms are collectively referred to herein as alignment mechanisms 326). In some embodiments, the alignment mechanisms 326 may include V-shaped recesses operable to receive each other (i.e., receiving the first alignment mechanism 326a into the corresponding second alignment mechanism 326b, and vice versa). In some embodiments, the alignment mechanisms 326 may include any type of mechanism for maintaining proper alignment between the mechanical stop 324 and the cup-shaped member 312.

[0066] Figure 4A A front perspective view of an eddy current sensor assembly 400 for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge 200, according to certain embodiments, is shown. Figure 4B A rear perspective view of an eddy current sensor assembly 400 for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge 200, according to certain embodiments, is shown. Figure 4C An enlarged view of an eddy current sensor assembly 400 for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge 200, according to certain embodiments, is shown. Figure 4D An exploded view of an eddy current sensor assembly 400 for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge 200, according to certain embodiments, is shown. For clarity, this document will... Figures 4A to 4D Combined descriptions.

[0067] Eddy current sensor assembly 400 includes a conduit 402 having a first portion 404 ( Figure 4C (as shown) and Part 406 ( Figure 4C As shown). Part 1 404 ( Figure 4C(Shown) includes a follower assembly 408 attached thereto, which is operable to engage with the retention ring 214 of the surgical cartridge 200. For illustrative purposes, in Figures 4A to 4B In the diagram, the base 206 and lid 208 of the surgical case 200 are shown with a retaining ring 214. The follower assembly 408 has a follower 410 that is coupled to the cup-shaped member 412. In some embodiments, the follower 410 is coupled to the cup-shaped member 412 via screws, welding, press fitting, and / or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the follower 410 and the cup-shaped member 412 are manufactured as a single component. Figures 4A to 4D As further shown, the follower assembly 408 includes a sensor component 414 positioned in the central portion of the follower 410. The sensor component 414 includes a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) having a coil activatable by high-frequency alternating current and signal conditioning electronics capable of sensing changes in inductance, impedance, or resonant frequency in the coil when the gap between the diaphragm 218 and the position coil changes. Thus, the conversion of this change into a displacement signal is related to fluid pressure. Figures 4A to 4D Sensor component 414 as an eddy current sensor is shown; however, other sensors can be readily conceived and described in further detail herein.

[0068] Returning to follower assembly 408, follower 410 includes protrusions 416 (416a–c) that engage with corresponding mating elements 216 of retaining ring 214. In some embodiments, protrusions 416 may be spherical mating elements, V-groove mating elements, crown mating elements, conical mating elements, and combinations thereof, such that protrusions 416 can engage and / or mate with corresponding mating elements 216 of retaining ring 214. In different embodiments, protrusions 316 may alternatively be cavities and / or recesses operable to receive corresponding protruding portions of retaining ring 214. In some embodiments, as a supplement to or alternative to protrusions 416, follower 410 includes a distal outer surface 427 having at least a partially conical, inclined, or spherical shape, which engages with or slides against a surface 226 at, for example, the center of retaining ring 214, to properly position eddy current sensor assembly 400 during attachment of surgical cartridge 200 to surgical console 100.

[0069] Part Two 406 Figure 4C(Shown) A collar 418 is included, in some embodiments, operable to fit into a bearing 636 of a pump head 640 of a fluid pump assembly within a surgical console 100 operable to receive a surgical cartridge 200. A biasing element 420 is disposed between a follower assembly 408 and a collar 418. The biasing element 420 is operable to apply a biasing force to the follower assembly 408 to facilitate engagement of the follower 410 with the surgical cartridge 200, thereby allowing disengagement of the follower assembly 408 from the surgical console 100. In some embodiments, the biasing element 420 may include a spring or elastomer. In some embodiments, the biasing element 420 may be a spring formed of high-carbon spring steel, alloy spring steel, stainless steel spring steel, copper-based spring alloy, nickel-based spring alloy, etc.

[0070] like Figures 4C to 4D As shown, the follower assembly 408 includes a mechanical stop 424 positioned between the follower 410 and the cup-shaped member 412. The mechanical stop 424 is located at the end of the first portion 404 of the pipe 402 and includes a first alignment mechanism 426a (similar to...). Figures 3D to 3E The first alignment mechanism 426 described above and the third alignment mechanism 426c, the first alignment mechanism being similar to the second alignment mechanism 426b in the inner portion of the cup-shaped member 412 (as described above). Figures 3D to 3E The described alignment mechanism 326 corresponds to a third alignment mechanism and a fourth alignment mechanism 426d in the inner portion of the cup-shaped member 412. The first alignment mechanism 426a, the corresponding second alignment mechanism 426b, the third alignment mechanism 426c, and the corresponding fourth alignment mechanism 426d are collectively referred to herein as alignment mechanism 426. In some embodiments, when the biasing element 420 is compressed and decompressed, the mechanical stop 424 is positioned between the follower 410 and the cup-shaped member 412, thereby biasing the follower assembly 408 forward. In some embodiments, alignment mechanism 426 may include V-shaped recesses operable to receive each other (i.e., receiving the first alignment mechanism 426a into the second alignment mechanism 426b and the third alignment mechanism 426c into the fourth alignment mechanism 426d, and vice versa). In some embodiments, alignment mechanism 426 may include any type of mechanism for maintaining proper alignment between the mechanical stop 424 and the cup-shaped member 412.

[0071] The conduit 402 includes a cable 422 disposed within the conduit to connect the sensor component 414 to an electronic circuitry system for operation of the sensor component 414. As the conduit 402 extends through the pump head 640 and the hollow shaft of the pump motor and encoder, the conduit 402 of the eddy current sensor assembly 400 protects the cable 422, as described below with respect to Figures 6 to 7. Figure 7Further details are provided. A stress reliever 428, having a radial opening 430 for mating with cable 422, is disposed between mechanical stop 424 and sensor component 414. The stress reliever 428 is coupled to sensor component 414 and holds at least a portion of cable 422 to reduce tension on cable 422 between stress reliever 428 and sensor component 414. Thus, during movement of follower assembly 408 (e.g., during surgery), stress reliever 428 reduces stress on cable 422 at the mounting point to sensor component 414 while clamping surgical cassette 200 to and / or releasing surgical cassette 200 from surgical console 100. PCBA support 432 and PCBA spring 434 are positioned around the outer radius of stress reliever 428 and provide clearance therefrom.

[0072] During the clamping of the surgical cassette 200 to the surgical console 100, the surgical cassette 200 is pulled into the follower assembly 408, and the retaining ring 214 of the surgical cassette 200 contacts the follower 410, thereby causing the biasing element 420 to compress the follower assembly 408 and move it toward the surgical console 100. The engagement of the sensor component 414 with the surgical cassette 200 and the disengagement of the sensor component 414 from the surgical console 100 (as provided by the biasing element 420) allow the sensor component 414 to follow the diaphragm 218 of the surgical cassette 200 as the surgical cassette 200 shifts, vibrates, expands, or contracts during surgery. In other words, the disengagement of the sensor component 414 when the surgical cassette 200 is clamped to the surgical console 100 allows the sensor component 414 to be positioned at a constant distance from the base of the diaphragm 218 of the surgical cassette 200. Because the diaphragm 218 deflects with changes in pressure within the cavity 608 behind it, the changing distance between the measuring sensor component 414 and the diaphragm 218 enables consistent, precise, and accurate measurement of the fluid control pressure within the surgical cartridge 200. When the surgical cartridge 200 is removed, the sensor component 414 is configured to bottom out and align in a position ready for another surgical cartridge 200. This is achieved using a mechanical stop 424 disposed within the follower assembly 408.

[0073] In some embodiments, the eddy current sensor assembly 400 is positioned at the center of the fluid pump assembly, as described below with respect to Figures 6 to 7. Figure 7 To describe in further detail, the diaphragm 218 is positioned at the center of the pump assembly 202 of the surgical cartridge 200 to minimize the size of both the surgical cartridge 200 and the fluid control subsystem 110 of the surgical console 100. The collar 418 of the eddy current sensor assembly 400 is held concentrically with the pump head 640 via a bearing 636, allowing the pump head 640 to rotate while keeping the collar 418, tube 402, and mechanical stop 424 of the eddy current sensor assembly 400 relatively stationary, as described below with respect to Figures 6 to 10. Figure 7 To describe in further detail.

[0074] Figure 5A A front perspective view of an optical sensor assembly 500 for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge 200, according to certain embodiments, is shown. Figure 5B A rear perspective view of an optical sensor assembly 500 for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge 200, according to certain embodiments, is shown. Figure 5C An enlarged view is shown of an optical sensor assembly 500 for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge 200 according to certain embodiments. For clarity, this document will... Figures 5A to 5C Combined descriptions.

[0075] The optical sensor assembly 500 includes a conduit 502 having a first portion 504. Figure 5C (as shown) and Part 506 ( Figure 5B As shown). Part 1 504 ( Figure 5C (As shown) includes a follower assembly 508 attached thereto, which is operable to engage with the retention ring 214 of the surgical cartridge 200.

[0076] The follower assembly 508 has a follower 510 that is coupled to the cup-shaped member 512. In some embodiments, the follower 510 is coupled to the cup-shaped member 512 via screws, welding, press fitting, and / or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the follower 510 and the cup-shaped member 512 are manufactured as a single component. Figures 3A to 3C As further shown, the follower 510 includes protrusions 516 (516a–c) that engage with corresponding mating elements 216 of the retention ring 214 of the surgical cartridge 200. In some embodiments, the protrusions 516 may be spherical mating elements, V-groove mating elements, crown-shaped mating elements, conical mating elements, and combinations thereof, such that the protrusions 516 can engage and / or mate with the corresponding mating elements 216 of the retention ring 214. In various other embodiments, the protrusions 516 may alternatively be cavities and / or recesses operable to receive corresponding protruding portions of the retention ring 214. In some embodiments, as a supplement to or alternative to the protrusions 516, the follower 510 includes a distal outer surface 527 having at least a partially conical, inclined, or spherical shape, which engages with or slides against a surface 226 at, for example, the center of the retention ring 214, to properly position the optical sensor assembly 500 during attachment of the surgical cartridge 200 to the surgical console 100.

[0077] Part Two 506 ( Figure 5B(Shown) A collar 518 is included, in some embodiments, operable to fit into a bearing of a pump head 640 of a fluid pump assembly within a surgical console 100 operable to receive a surgical cartridge 200. A biasing element 520 is disposed between a follower assembly 508 and a collar 518. The biasing element 520 is operable to apply a biasing force to the follower assembly 508 to facilitate engagement of the follower 510 with the surgical cartridge 200, thereby allowing disengagement of the follower assembly 508 from the surgical console 100. In some embodiments, the biasing element 520 may include a spring or elastomer. In some embodiments, the biasing element 520 may be a spring formed of high-carbon spring steel, alloy spring steel, stainless steel spring steel, copper-based spring alloy, nickel-based spring alloy, etc.

[0078] like Figure 5C As shown, the follower assembly 508 includes a mechanical stop 524 positioned between the follower 510 and the cup-shaped member 512. The mechanical stop 524 is located at the end of the first portion 504 of the pipe 502 and includes a first alignment mechanism 526a (similar to...). Figures 3D to 3E The first alignment mechanism 326 described herein, and the second alignment mechanism 526b in the inner portion of the cup-shaped member 512 (similar to...) Figures 3D to 3E The alignment mechanism 526 described herein corresponds to the first alignment mechanism 526a and the corresponding second alignment mechanism 526b. In some embodiments, when the biasing element 520 is compressed and decompressed, the mechanical stop 524 moves between the follower 510 and the cup-shaped member 512, thereby moving the follower assembly 508. In some embodiments, the alignment mechanism 526 may include V-shaped recesses operable to receive each other (i.e., receiving the first alignment mechanism 526a into the second alignment mechanism 526b, and vice versa). In some embodiments, the alignment mechanism 526 may include any type of mechanism for maintaining proper alignment between the mechanical stop 524 and the cup-shaped member 512.

[0079] The optical sensor assembly 500 includes a camera lens 528 disposed on a first end 530 of a lens barrel 532 within a follower 510, and a camera sensor 534 disposed on a second end 536 of the lens barrel 532. The camera lens 528 is configured to receive an image from a diaphragm 218 and propagate it through the lens barrel 532, such that the camera sensor 534 receives the image from the diaphragm 218. The follower 510 includes an illumination lens 538 disposed in a central portion of the follower 510, and an illumination source 540 disposed behind the illumination lens 538. In some embodiments, the illumination source 540 may include, for example, one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The illumination source 540 illuminates the diaphragm 218 through the illumination lens 538, allowing the camera sensor 534 to detect changes in the diaphragm 218 through the camera lens 528. A PCBA 542 is operatively coupled to the camera sensor 534 and the illumination source 540. In some embodiments, PCBA 542 provides electronic communication to and / or from camera sensor 534 and lighting source 540 via cable 522. Figures 5A to 5C The sensor component, as an optical sensor, is shown; however, other sensors are readily conceived and described in further detail herein. Conduit 502 includes cable 522 disposed within the conduit to connect PCBA 542 to the electronic circuitry system for operating camera sensor 534 and illumination source 540. As conduit 502 extends through pump head 640 and the hollow shaft of pump motor and encoder, the optical sensor assembly 500's conduit 502 protects cable 522, as described below with respect to Figures 6 to 7. Figure 7 To describe in further detail.

[0080] During the clamping of the surgical cassette 200 to the surgical console 100, the surgical cassette 200 is pulled into the follower assembly 508, and the retaining ring 214 of the surgical cassette 200 contacts multiple portions of the follower 310, thereby causing the biasing element 520 to compress the follower assembly 508 and move it toward the surgical console 100. The engagement of portions of the sensor components of the optical sensor assembly 500 with the surgical cassette 200 and the disengagement of portions of the sensor components of the optical sensor assembly 500 from the surgical console 100 (as provided by the biasing element 520) allow portions of the sensor components of the optical sensor assembly 500 to follow the diaphragm 218 of the surgical cassette 200 as the surgical cassette 200 shifts, vibrates, expands, or contracts during surgery. In other words, the disengagement of the sensor components of the optical sensor assembly 500 when the surgical cassette 200 is clamped to the surgical console 100 allows the sensor components of the optical sensor assembly 500 to be positioned at a constant distance from the base of the diaphragm 218 of the surgical cassette 200. Because the diaphragm 218 deflects with changes in pressure within the surgical cartridge 200, the change in distance between the measuring optical sensor assembly 500 and the diaphragm 218 enables consistent, precise, and accurate measurement of the fluid control pressure within the surgical cartridge 200. When the surgical cartridge 200 is removed, a portion of the sensor component of the optical sensor assembly 500 is configured to bottom out and align in a position, ready for another surgical cartridge 200. This is achieved using a mechanical stop 524 disposed within the follower assembly 508.

[0081] In some embodiments, the optical sensor assembly 500 is positioned at the center of the fluid pump assembly, as described below with respect to Figures 6 to 7. Figure 7 To describe in further detail, the diaphragm 218 is positioned at the center of the pump assembly 202 of the surgical cartridge 200 to minimize the size of both the surgical cartridge 200 and the fluid control subsystem 110 of the surgical console 100. The collar 518 of the optical sensor assembly 500 is held concentrically with the pump head 640 via a bearing 636 to allow rotation of the pump head while keeping the collar 518, tube 502, and mechanical stop 524 of the sensor assembly relatively stationary, as described below with respect to Figures 6 to 7. Figure 7 To describe in further detail.

[0082] Figure 6A A front perspective view of a fluid pump assembly 600 according to certain embodiments is shown, which includes an inductive sensor assembly 300 for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge 200. Figure 6B An enlarged view of a fluid pump assembly 600 according to some embodiments is shown. For clarity, refer to... Figures 3A to 3C The inductive sensor assembly 300, this article will Figures 6A to 6B Combined description. Although the inductive sensor assembly 300 is shown and described, Figures 6A to 6BThe arrangement / configuration of the fluid pump assembly 600 can also be used with the eddy current sensor assembly 400 and the optical sensor assembly 500 described herein.

[0083] The fluid pump assembly 600 includes a motor 628 having a roller 630 disposed on the front side of the fluid pump assembly 600 and an encoder 632 disposed on the rear side of the fluid pump assembly 600. The motor 628 drives a pump head 640 such that the roller 630 contacts and rolls against an annular pump elastomer of the pump assembly 202 of the surgical cartridge 200 in a circular motion, providing a pressure source and / or vacuum source for controlling pressure and / or fluid communication within the surgical cartridge 200. The encoder 632 provides information about the shaft speed and / or position of the motor 628 to a computer of the surgical console (e.g., computer 103 of the surgical console 100) using an encoder disk 634 disposed therein. The fluid pump assembly 600 includes an inductive sensor assembly 300 disposed therein, such as… Figures 3A to 3C As shown. In some embodiments, the fluid pump assembly 600 may include, but is not limited to, a pump head with a hollow body, a hollow center screw, and / or a center support bearing.

[0084] The inductive sensor assembly includes a conduit 302 having a first portion 304 and a second portion 306 disposed through the central portion of a motor 628 and an encoder 632. The first portion 304 includes a follower assembly 308 disposed within a pump head 640, operable to engage a retaining ring 214 of a surgical cartridge 200. The follower assembly 308 has a follower 310 coupled to a cup-shaped member 312. The follower assembly 308 includes a sensor component 314. The follower 310 includes protrusions 316 (316a–c) that engage with corresponding mating elements 216 of the retaining ring 214. The second portion 306 includes a collar 318 operable to fit into a bearing 636 of the pump head 640 of a fluid pump assembly 600 within a surgical console 100 operable to receive the surgical cartridge 200. In some embodiments, the bearing 636 may be a hollow support bearing. A biasing element 320 is disposed between the follower assembly 308 and the collar 318. The biasing element 320 is operable to apply a biasing force to the follower assembly 308 to engage the follower 310 with the surgical cartridge 200.

[0085] The follower assembly 308 includes a mechanical stop 324 positioned between the follower 310 and the cup-shaped member 312. The mechanical stop 324 is located at the end of the first portion 304 of the conduit 302. The conduit 302 includes a cable 322 disposed within the conduit to connect the sensor component 314 to an electronic circuitry system for operating the sensor component 314, such as... Figure 1B As shown.

[0086] In some embodiments, the inductive sensor assembly 300 is positioned at the center of the fluid pump assembly 600. A collar 318 of the inductive sensor assembly 300 is held concentrically with the pump head 640 via a bearing 636 to allow rotation of the pump head 640 while keeping the collar 318 relatively stationary. The conduit 302 of the inductive sensor assembly 300 protects the cable 322 as the conduit 302 extends through the pump head 640 and the hollow shaft 642 of the motor 628 and encoder 632. A sensor support bracket 644 is mounted to the rear end of the motor 628 and extends behind the encoder 632, wherein the sensor support bracket 644 secures the distal end of the conduit 302. The cable 322 extends out of the conduit 302 and connects to a sensor component mounted to the surgical console 100.

[0087] In some embodiments, the fluid pump assembly may be a pump unit assembly for driving fluid in a surgical cartridge, wherein an auxiliary component is disposed at the center of the pump. In these embodiments, the pump unit assembly may include, for example, a hollow body pump head with a central support bearing, a hollow shaft motor, a hollow disk encoder, and a rear support bracket extending from the rear of the motor to the rear of the encoder, wherein a central bore is aligned with the motor shaft and configured to support the distal end of the auxiliary component.

[0088] Figure 7 A front perspective view of two fluid pump assemblies 600 according to certain embodiments is shown. These fluid pump assemblies have two eddy current sensor assemblies 400 mounted in a fluid control subsystem 110 of a surgical console 100, and an associated surgical cartridge 200. Reference is made separately for clarity. Figures 2A to 2B , Figures 4A to 4D and Figures 6A to 6B The surgical box 200, eddy current sensor assembly 400, and fluid pump assembly 600 are used to describe this. Figure 7 Each fluid pump assembly 600 includes an eddy current sensor assembly 400 disposed therein. Although the eddy current sensor assembly 400 has been shown and described with reference to it, Figures 6A to 3C The arrangement / configuration of the fluid pump assembly 600 can also be used with the inductive sensor assembly 300 and the optical sensor assembly 500 described herein.

[0089] The associated surgical cartridge 200 is operatively received in the front opening 702 of the fluid control subsystem 110 via clamping elements 704 (704a and 704b). When the surgical cartridge 200 is received in the front opening 702, mating elements 216 (216a-c and 216a'-c') of the retaining ring 214 (214a-b) engage with protrusions 416 (416a-416c) of the follower 410 to facilitate alignment of the follower 410 of the follower assembly 408 with the surgical cartridge 200, and thus facilitate proper engagement of the surgical cartridge 200 with the fluid control subsystem 110. When the surgical cassette 200 is clamped into the surgical console via the clamping element 704, the surgical cassette 200 is pulled into the follower assembly 408, and the retaining ring 214 of the surgical cassette 200 contacts the follower 410, thereby causing the biasing element 420 to compress the follower assembly 408 and move it toward the surgical console 100. The engagement of the sensor component 414 with the surgical cassette 200 and the disengagement of the sensor component 414 from the surgical console 100 (provided by the biasing element 420) allow the sensor component 414 to follow the retaining ring 214 and diaphragm 218 of the surgical cassette 200 as the surgical cassette shifts, vibrates, expands, or contracts during surgery. In other words, the disengagement of the sensor component 414 when the surgical cassette 200 is clamped into the surgical console 100 allows the sensor component 414 to be positioned at a constant distance from the retaining ring 214 and diaphragm 218 of the surgical cassette 200. Because the diaphragm 218 deflects with changes in pressure within the surgical cartridge 200, the change in distance between the measuring sensor component 414 and the diaphragm 218 enables consistent, precise, and accurate measurement of the fluid control pressure within the surgical cartridge 200. When the surgical cartridge 200 is removed, the sensor component 414 is configured to retract and align to a position ready for another surgical cartridge 200. This is achieved using a mechanical stop 424 attached to a retaining tube 402 within the follower assembly 408.

[0090] In some embodiments, the computer 103 of the surgical console 100 may be configured to utilize calibration data from the surgical cartridge 200 to convert detected and measured deflections of the diaphragm 218 into fluid control pressures within the surgical cartridge 200. In some embodiments, the calibration data for the surgical cartridge 200 may be associated with or linked to a barcode 228 of the surgical cartridge 200. In various embodiments, calibration data for the surgical cartridge 200 is generated during manufacturing and then captured and / or stored on the computer 103 and / or a web server or other storage device communicating with the computer 103. In some embodiments, the calibration data is specific to each surgical cartridge 200. In some embodiments, the barcode 228 may include, for example, a one-dimensional, two-dimensional, or three-dimensional barcode, a data matrix barcode, or a quick-response code. In some embodiments, the calibration data for the surgical cartridge 200 is embedded in the surgical cartridge 200 as a barcode 228.

[0091] In some embodiments, when the surgical cartridge 200 is attached to the surgical console 100, before performing surgery with the surgical console 100, the barcode reader 120 “reads” the barcode 228 (e.g., captures an image of the barcode 228). In some embodiments, when the image of the barcode 228 is captured, the computer 103 retrieves calibration data associated with the image of the barcode 228, and thereafter correlates the measured deflection of the diaphragm 218 caused by pressure changes within the surgical cartridge 200 with the fluid control pressure, at least in part, based on the calibration data associated with the barcode 228.

[0092] As described above, once the surgical cartridge 200 is engaged with the fluid control subsystem 110, the sensor component 414 interacts with the diaphragm 218 to sense the fluid pressure within the surgical cartridge 200. Roller 630 contacts pump assembly 202 (202a–b), which provides a pressure and / or vacuum source that controls the pressure and / or fluid communication within the surgical cartridge 200.

[0093] In some embodiments, the eddy current sensor assembly 400 is positioned at the center of the fluid pump assembly 600, and the diaphragm 218 is positioned at the center of the pump assembly 202 of the surgical cartridge 200 to minimize the size of both the surgical cartridge 200 and the fluid control subsystem 110 of the surgical console 100. The collar 418 of the eddy current sensor assembly 400 is held concentric with the pump head 640 via a bearing 636 to allow the pump head 640 to rotate while keeping the collar 418 of the eddy current sensor assembly 400 relatively stationary. The conduit 402 of the eddy current sensor assembly 400 protects the cable 422 as the conduit 402 extends through the pump head 640 and the hollow shaft 642 of the motor 628 and encoder 632. A sensor support bracket 644 is mounted to the rear end of the motor 628 and extends behind the encoder 632, wherein the sensor support bracket 644 secures the distal end of the conduit 402. The cable 422 extends out of the conduit 402 and connects to a sensor control component mounted to the surgical console 100.

[0094] As described above, during the clamping of the surgical cassette to the surgical console, the surgical cassette is pulled into the follower assembly such that the retaining ring of the surgical cassette contacts the follower, thereby causing the biasing element to compress the follower assembly and move it toward the surgical console. The engagement of the sensor component with the surgical cassette and the disengagement of the sensor component from the surgical console (as provided by the biasing element) allow the sensor component to follow the retaining ring and diaphragm of the surgical cassette as the surgical cassette shifts, vibrates, expands, or contracts during surgery.

[0095] Thus, when the surgical cartridge is clamped onto the surgical console, the disengagement of the sensor component allows it to be positioned at a constant distance from the base of the retaining ring and diaphragm of the surgical cartridge. Because the diaphragm deflects with pressure changes, measuring the change in distance between the sensor component and the diaphragm 218 enables consistent, precise, and accurate measurement of the fluid control pressure within the surgical cartridge. When the surgical cartridge is removed, the sensor component is configured to retract and align in a position ready for another surgical cartridge. This is achieved using a mechanical stop within the follower assembly, allowing for rapid cartridge replacement within the surgical console.

[0096] In short, the embodiments described herein provide improved stability for fluid control measurements by mechanically decoupling the sensor components from the surgical console while mechanically coupling the sensor components to the surgical cartridge at the diaphragm location. This reduces unwanted relative movement between the diaphragm and the sensor components caused by various phenomena typical of designs, such as vibration, thermal expansion, component deflection, alignment limitations, and mechanical interference.

[0097] Although various embodiments of this disclosure have been shown in the accompanying drawings and described in the foregoing detailed description, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein, but is capable of many rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the spirit of this disclosure as set forth herein.

[0098] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the term “substantially” is defined to a large extent, but not necessarily entirely, of the specified content. In any disclosed embodiment, the terms “substantially,” “about,” “roughly,” and “approximately” may be replaced with “within [a certain percentage] of a specified value,” where the percentage includes 0.1%, 1%, 5%, and 10%.

[0099] The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments to enable those skilled in the art to better understand various aspects of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that they can readily use this disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures to achieve the same purpose and / or the same advantages of the embodiments described herein. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. The scope of the invention should be determined solely by the language of the appended claims. The term “comprising” in the claims is intended to mean “including at least”, such that the list of elements enumerated in the claims is an open group. Unless specifically excluded, the term “a / an” and other singular terms are intended to include their plural forms. Conditional language used herein, in particular such as “can,” “may,” “can,” “e.g.,” etc., unless expressly stated otherwise or otherwise understood in the context in which they are used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not, certain features, elements, and / or states.

Claims

1. A sensor assembly for sensing fluid pressure in a surgical cartridge, the sensor assembly comprising: A pipe having a first portion and a second portion; Follower assembly, operable to engage with a retention ring of the surgical cartridge coupled to the first portion, the follower assembly comprising: Follower, the follower being connected to the cup-shaped member; and Sensor components; A collar located on the second portion of the conduit, the collar being operable to fit into the bearing of the pump head of a fluid pump assembly within a surgical console operable to receive the surgical cartridge; and A biasing element located between the follower assembly and the collar, the biasing element being operable to apply a biasing force to the follower assembly to engage the follower with the surgical box.

2. The sensor assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The follower assembly includes a mechanical stop positioned between the follower and the cup-shaped member, the mechanical stop being disposed at the end of a first portion of the pipe.

3. The sensor assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The mechanical stop includes a first alignment mechanism, which corresponds to a second alignment mechanism on the inner portion of the cup-shaped member.

4. The sensor assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The sensor component includes an inductive sensor positioned in the central portion of the follower.

5. The sensor assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The follower assembly includes a stress relief element positioned between the mechanical stop and the follower.

6. The sensor assembly of claim 5, wherein, The sensor component includes a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) that includes a coil positioned in the central portion of the follower and adjacent to a portion of the stress relief element.

7. The sensor assembly of claim 6, comprising a PCBA support adjacent to a PCBA spring, wherein: The PCBA contacts a portion of the PCBA support; and The PCBA contacts a portion of the cup-shaped component.

8. The sensor assembly of claim 2, wherein, The follower includes a lens barrel.

9. The sensor assembly of claim 8, wherein, The sensor component includes a camera lens disposed at the first end of the lens barrel and a camera sensor disposed at the second end of the lens barrel.

10. The sensor assembly of claim 9, wherein, The follower includes an illumination lens disposed in the central portion of the follower.

11. The sensor assembly of claim 10, wherein, An illumination source is provided behind the illumination lens.

12. The sensor assembly of claim 11, wherein, The PCBA contacts a portion of the camera sensor and a portion of the lighting source.

13. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein, The follower includes a protrusion that can be received in a corresponding mating element of the retainer ring of the surgical box.

14. The sensor assembly of claim 13, wherein, The follower assembly can be housed within the central portion of the pump.

15. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein, The sensor component includes an eddy current sensor.

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