Sensor assembly for pressure sensing and backup fluid supply in a surgical console

By using a backup infusion pressure sensor module, combined with a squeeze plate and pressure sensor assembly, the challenge of monitoring and controlling fluid pressure in ophthalmic surgery was solved, achieving stability and safety in fluid infusion and perfusion, and ensuring the success of the surgery and the stability of the patient's intraocular pressure.

CN122138809APending Publication Date: 2026-06-02ALCON INC

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
ALCON INC
Filing Date
2024-08-28
Publication Date
2026-06-02

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In ophthalmic surgery, current technologies struggle to accurately and efficiently monitor and control the pressure and flow rate of fluid infusion or perfusion, impacting surgical success and the stability of intraocular pressure in patients.

Method used

A backup infusion pressure sensor module, including a squeeze plate and a pressure sensor assembly, is used. Through a combination of sensor gate, sensor frame, spring and force sensor, the pressure on the fluid bag is monitored and controlled in real time, and backup pressure support is provided in the event of power failure.

Benefits of technology

It enables precise monitoring and control of fluid bag pressure, ensuring stable fluid infusion and perfusion during surgery, avoiding adverse intraocular pressure changes, and improving the success rate of surgery and patient safety.

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Abstract

A backup infusion pressure sensor module for use in an ophthalmic surgical console includes a squeeze plate configured to engage with a fluid bag. The backup infusion pressure sensor module further includes a pressure sensor assembly having a sensor door and a sensor frame, wherein the sensor door pivots relative to a pin coupled to a top portion of the pressure sensor assembly, the pin being configured to bias the sensor door toward the fluid bag. The pressure sensor assembly includes a base mounted to the rear side of the sensor frame of the pressure sensor assembly, one or more springs, a spring support coupled to the one or more springs, and a force sensor in contact with the spring support, the force sensor being configured to determine the pressure force acting on the fluid bag.
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Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 594,779, filed October 31, 2023, which is hereby assigned to the assignee of this application and is hereby expressly incorporated in its entirety by reference for all applicable purposes, as fully set forth below. Background Technology

[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 limiting membrane of the vitreous 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 eye conditions requiring both anterior and posterior surgery; in such cases, combined surgery can 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, fluids can be infused or infused into the eye during the procedure to maintain intraocular pressure (IOP) and ventricular stability. The fluid control module of the surgical console is typically used to facilitate these aspiration / extraction and infusion / infusion functions.

[0005] Maintaining a balance between fluid perfusion / infusion and aspiration / removal to preserve intraocular pressure is crucial for the success of ophthalmic surgery. Typically, intraocular pressure needs to be maintained at a relatively constant level to avoid adverse effects on the patient's eye. Therefore, accurate and efficient monitoring of the flow rate or pressure of fluids introduced into the eye and the pressure of fluids aspirated / removed from the eye is essential during ophthalmic surgery. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Various aspects of this disclosure relate to driving and monitoring fluid infusion or perfusion for ophthalmic (eye) surgery, and more specifically to squeeze plates and external pressure sensors for infusion or perfusion fluid bags used in ophthalmic surgery.

[0007] In some embodiments, a backup infusion pressure sensor module is provided. The backup infusion pressure sensor module includes a squeeze plate configured to engage with a fluid bag. The backup infusion pressure sensor module further includes a pressure sensor assembly having a sensor door and a sensor frame, wherein the sensor door pivots relative to a pin coupled to a top portion of the pressure sensor assembly, the pin being configured to bias the sensor door toward the fluid bag. The pressure sensor assembly includes a base mounted to the rear side of the sensor frame of the pressure sensor assembly, one or more springs, a spring support coupled to the one or more springs, and a force sensor in contact with the spring support, the force sensor being configured to determine the pressure force acting on the fluid bag.

[0008] In some embodiments, a backup infusion pressure sensor module is provided. The backup infusion pressure sensor module includes a squeeze plate configured to engage with a fluid bag. The backup infusion pressure sensor module further includes a pressure sensor assembly having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion pivots relative to a pin coupled to the second portion, and the pressure sensor assembly is configured to contact at least a portion of the pressure sensor assembly with the fluid bag. The pressure sensor assembly further includes a base mounted to the back side of the pressure sensor assembly, one or more biasing members, a bracket coupled to the one or more biasing members, and a force sensor contacting the bracket, the force sensor being configured to determine a pressure source acting on the fluid bag. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only, are schematic in nature, and are intended to be exemplary and not to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0010] Figure 1A An example ophthalmic surgery system that can be used to perform ophthalmic surgery on the eye, according to an embodiment described herein, is illustrated.

[0011] Figure 1B The illustration shows an embodiment according to the description herein. Figure 1A An example subsystem of the surgical console of an ophthalmic surgical system.

[0012] Figures 2A to 2B The illustration shows a portion of the fluid control subsystem of a surgical console according to an embodiment described herein, and a perspective view of the fluid bag module of the fluid control subsystem.

[0013] Figures 3A to 3D A perspective view of an exemplary pressure sensor assembly according to an embodiment described herein is illustrated.

[0014] Figure 4AA detailed cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure sensor assembly in an uncompressed position according to an embodiment described herein is illustrated.

[0015] Figure 4B A detailed cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure sensor assembly in a compressed position according to an embodiment described herein is illustrated.

[0016] The above overview is not intended to present every possible embodiment or aspect of the subject matter disclosure. Rather, it is intended to illustrate some novel aspects and features disclosed herein. The foregoing features and advantages, as well as other features and advantages, of the subject matter disclosure will become clear from the following detailed description of representative embodiments and implementation modes of the subject matter disclosure, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and appended claims. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Various aspects of this disclosure relate to backup fluid infusions or perfusions for ophthalmic (eye) surgery, and more specifically to fluid bag pressure sensors that are combined with tools for backup infusions or perfusions used with fluid bags in ophthalmic surgery.

[0018] 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 illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, system 10 includes a console 100 (also referred to as a "surgical console"), an interface device 107 (e.g., a foot pedal), and a handheld device 112. Console 100 includes a housing 102, a display screen 104, and a fluid control subsystem 110. Components of system 10 and console 100 may be as described in reference... Figure 1B The connection is shown and described in more detail.

[0019] Figure 1B The illustration shows some embodiments. Figure 1A An example subsystem of the console 100 of the ophthalmic surgery system 10. The console 100 includes a housing 102 that houses a computer 103 (with an associated display screen 104) and subsystems 106, 110, and 116 supporting an interface device 107 and handheld devices 112 (112a-c). The interface device 107 receives input to the console 100, sends output from the console 100, and / or processes input and / or output. Examples of the interface device 107 include a foot pedal, a manual input device (e.g., a keyboard), and a display. The interface subsystem 106 receives input from the interface device 107 and / or sends output to the interface device.

[0020] The fluid control subsystem 110 provides fluid control for one or more handheld devices 112 (112a-c). For example, the fluid control subsystem 110 can manage fluid for infusion or perfusion cannulas. In some embodiments, the fluid control subsystem 110 can be operatively coupled to a surgical cartridge during surgical procedures. For example, the surgical cartridge can be inserted into, attached to, and / or integrated with the fluid control subsystem 110 via a coupling mechanism. The coupling mechanism may include one or more of a latching mechanism, a locking mechanism, or other similar connection mechanisms. When the fluid control subsystem 110 is operatively coupled to the surgical cartridge, the fluid control subsystem 110 can control the infusion / infusion and / or aspiration and / or suction of fluid through the surgical cartridge. In some embodiments, the fluid control subsystem 110 includes one or more mechanical pumps having roller pump heads configured to engage with one or more corresponding pump assemblies on the surgical cartridge. The engagement of the roller pump heads and pump assemblies creates a pressure source and / or a vacuum source used during ophthalmic surgery.

[0021] Furthermore, the fluid control subsystem 110 may include a fluid bag (e.g., fluid bag 202 shown in FIG. 2) that acts as a fluid source for supplying fluid to the surgical cartridge (e.g., supplying fluid to a mechanical pump engaged with one or more pump assemblies on the surgical cartridge). The fluid control subsystem 110 has one or more components engaged with the fluid bag 202 that control the flow of fluid supplied to the surgical cartridge and / or handheld device 112 to provide infusion / perfusion to the eye during surgical procedures. The fluid control subsystem 110 is configured to receive the fluid bag 202 in a cavity, slot, or other receptacle of the fluid control subsystem 110.

[0022] 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. The handpiece 112 can be communicatively coupled to the surgical console 100 via fluid or electrical communication. One or more connections may exist between the handpiece 112 and the surgical console 100, such as tubing configured to transport aspiration and / or infusion fluids between the console and the handpiece.

[0023] The handpiece subsystem 116 supports one or more handpieces 112. For example, the handpiece subsystem 116 may 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.

[0024] Computer 103 controls the operation of ophthalmic surgical system 10. Typically, computer 103 includes a processor and memory. Memory may include any means capable of operating 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 (e.g., providing fluid control for one or more handheld devices 112 or other devices communicating with surgical console 100).

[0025] 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 communicating 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 communicating with computer 103 to control such means and systems. The processor may also be operable to output results based on the operations it performs. In some embodiments, computer 103 includes a controller that sends instructions to components of system 10. Display screen 104 displays data provided by computer 103.

[0026] Figures 2A to 2B Perspective views of a portion of the fluid control subsystem 110 of a surgical console 100 according to embodiments described herein, and a fluid bag module 200 of the fluid control subsystem, are illustrated. The fluid control subsystem 110 includes the fluid bag module 200, which further has a fluid bag pressure module 204, which may be disposed within or operatively communicated with other components of the surgical console 100. Figure 2B In the diagram, a removable fluid bag 202 is shown as being disposed in the fluid bag module 200.

[0027] like Figures 2A to 2B As shown, the fluid bag pressure module 204 includes a squeeze plate 246, a spare infusion / filling pressure sensor assembly 210 (referred to herein as the "pressure sensor assembly") attached to the squeeze plate 246, and a fluid bag chamber 230 adjacent to the squeeze plate 246 and the pressure sensor assembly 210.

[0028] To control the rate at which infusion and / or perfusion fluid is supplied to the fluid control subsystem 110, the console 100 automatically controls the amount of pressure supplied by the squeeze plate 246 to the fluid bag 202. During ophthalmic surgery, the squeeze plate 246 is actuated to press against the fluid bag 202 to squeeze the bag and force the infusion and / or perfusion fluid to flow out of the fluid bag 202, thereby delivering fluid to the patient's eye. A backup infusion / perfusion pressure sensor assembly 210 is configured to monitor the pressure of the squeeze plate 246 against the fluid bag 202 and / or provide backup pressure to the fluid bag 202 in the event of a loss of power to the squeeze plate 246.

[0029] The fluid bag chamber 230 includes compartments defined by one or more walls formed of any suitable material. For example, the walls of the fluid bag chamber 230 may include sheets of a metal alloy, such as stainless steel, which, in addition to the extrusion plate 246, may also be used to provide support to the fluid bag 202 on the side opposite to the extrusion plate 246. In some embodiments, the fluid bag chamber 230 is at least partially defined by the extrusion plate 246.

[0030] In some embodiments, the extrusion plate 246 may be configured to respond to movement of the drive assembly 244 such that, when the drive assembly 244 is activated, the entire extrusion plate 246 and the pressure sensor assembly 210 coupled to the extrusion plate translate along a first direction toward the fluid bag 202 or a second direction away from the fluid bag 202. Together with a translation assembly 242 that may include one or more sets of cross links, the drive assembly 244 drives the extrusion plate 246 and the pressure sensor assembly 210 to move laterally against or away from the fluid bag 202. Figures 2A to 2B As shown, the drive assembly 244 may include a motorized lead screw actuator (e.g., a lead screw coupled to a stepper motor); however, other types of linear actuators are also contemplated. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 244 may be driven using pneumatic pressure in response to commands received automatically, for example, from the surgical console 100.

[0031] Figures 3A to 3DA perspective view of a pressure sensor assembly 210 according to an embodiment described herein is illustrated. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor assembly 210 includes: a sensor door 312; a sensor door support 322 coupled to and supporting the back side of the sensor door 312; a sensor frame 310 coupled to and surrounding the sensor door support 322; a force sensor 240 passing through the sensor door 312; one or more springs 302 acting on the sensor door 312; one or more spring pins 320 passing through the springs 302; a spring bracket 308 surrounding the force sensor 240; and a sensor support base 304 disposed on the back side of the sensor frame 310.

[0032] The pressure sensor assembly 210 can be connected to the extrusion plate 246 via one or more brackets, screw holes, or bolts in the sensor frame 310. The sensor frame 310 can be configured to have a centrally located opening through the center of the extrusion plate 246. The sensor frame 310 can be configured such that the front side of the sensor frame 310 is coplanar with the front side of the extrusion plate 246, or the front side of the sensor frame 310 can be located in front of or behind the front side of the extrusion plate 246. Therefore, as the extrusion plate 246 translates toward the fluid bag 202, the sensor frame 310, and thus the pressure sensor assembly 210, can also translate toward the fluid bag 202.

[0033] Before or during ophthalmic surgery, the fluid bag 202 can be removably placed in the surgical console 100, behind the compression plate 246, such as... Figure 2B As shown. As described herein, the front side refers to the side or surface of a component that is closer to or faces the fluid bag in the module, while the back side refers to the side or surface of a component that is further away from or away from the fluid bag in the module.

[0034] The fluid bag 202 can be coupled (e.g., via tubing) to a fluid control subsystem to supply fluid to a surgical cartridge, surgical handpiece, and / or other devices used in surgical procedures. The front side of the pressure sensor assembly 210, more specifically the front side of the sensor door 312, is configured to contact the fluid bag 202 on one side to compress it, while the wall of the fluid bag chamber 230 is configured to contact and abut against the opposite side of the fluid bag 202 to provide resistance. Accordingly, the size and shape of the front side of the sensor door 312 can be configured to provide sufficient “compression surface” to compress or apply pressure to the fluid bag 202, thereby forcing the infusion / perfusion fluid to flow out of the fluid bag. In some embodiments, the front side of the sensor door includes a substantially planar surface, such as… Figure 3A As shown. However, other configurations of the sensor gate 312 are also envisioned.

[0035] The rear side of sensor door 312 is connected to sensor door support 322. In some embodiments, sensor door 312 and sensor door support 322 are separate components; in other embodiments, sensor door 312 and sensor door support 322 are integrated into a single component. Sensor door support 322 indirectly and movably connects sensor door 312 to sensor frame 310. For example, in Figure 3A and Figure 3B In this embodiment, the sensor door support 322 is movably connected to one or more pins 316 at the top portion 314 on the back side of the sensor frame 310. Each of the pins 316 may include an axis arranged parallel to the plane of the front side of the sensor door 312 and perpendicular to the linear direction of movement of the extrusion plate 246. This allows the sensor door support 322 and the sensor door 312 coupled to it to pivot about the axis of the pin 316 and through the opening 326 of the sensor frame 310. The pins 316 secure the sensor door support 322 and the sensor door 312 to the sensor frame 310. In use, as the extrusion plate 246 and the pressure sensor assembly 210 move linearly toward the fluid bag 202, the sensor frame 310 maintains a constant rotational orientation relative to the axis of the pins 316. However, the pins 316 facilitate rotation of the sensor door support 322 and the sensor door 312 about the axis of the pins 316, thereby allowing the sensor door 312 to pivot relative to the sensor frame 310 and through the opening 326. Note that although pin 316 is described, other types of rotary couplings or connectors are also envisioned to facilitate the pivoting of sensor door 312 through opening 326.

[0036] For example, the sensor door 312, sensor door support 322, and / or sensor frame 310 may be formed of a metal or metal alloy material (such as stainless steel or aluminum). In some embodiments, the sensor door and / or sensor frame 310 are formed of a thermoplastic polymer material or other plastic material. In some embodiments, the sensor door 312, sensor door support 322, and / or sensor frame 310 are formed of the same material; in other embodiments, the sensor door 312, sensor door support 322, and / or sensor frame 310 are formed of different materials.

[0037] Sensor gate 312 is further coupled to force sensor 240, which is mounted to sensor support base 304, which is disposed on the back side of sensor frame 310, and thus on the back side of pressure sensor assembly 210. When pressure sensor assembly 210 translates toward fluid bag 202 to compress it, regardless of the compression state of sensor gate 312, the reaction force / reverse force acting on sensor gate 312 from fluid bag 202 is transmitted to force sensor 240 of pressure sensor assembly 210. These reaction forces are measured by pressure sensor assembly 210 and converted by pressure sensor assembly 210 and / or computer 103 communicating therewith into or correlated with the fluid pressure of fluid bag 202, as referenced. Figure 4A and Figure 4B A more detailed description.

[0038] Figures 3C to 3D The diagram shows cross-sectional views of the pressure sensor assembly 210 in the "uncompressed" and "compressed" positions, respectively.

[0039] exist Figure 3C In the uncompressed position, the pressure sensor assembly 210 may or may not be in contact with the fluid bag 202, and the lower section of the sensor door 312 extends outward from the opening 326 and toward the fluid bag 202. Specifically, in the uncompressed position, the outward force of the spring 302 acting on the sensor door 312 causes the sensor door 312 to swing toward the fluid bag 202 about the axis of the pin 316, such that the sensor door 312 is not oriented in the same plane as the sensor frame 310 and is not parallel to the plane of the sensor frame 310, as indicated by arrow 350. In this position, the spring 302 and the spring support 308 are in a semi-compressed state, such that the spring 302 is under a predetermined compression pressure, and the spring support 308 is not in contact with the sensor door 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210.

[0040] exist Figure 3D In the compressed position, the pressure sensor assembly 210 is pressed against the fluid bag 202 due to the lateral translation of the squeeze plate 246 toward the fluid bag 202, and the sensor door 312 is pressed inward by a reaction force / reverse force from the fluid bag 202 (e.g., rotation about the axis of pin 316 toward the sensor frame 310), as shown by arrow 360. For example, the sensor 240 can be considered to be in a compressed state when the pressure sensor assembly 210 is pressed against the fluid bag 202 and the sensor door 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 is pivoted or oscillated relative to the sensor frame 310 in a direction away from the fluid bag 202 (e.g., as shown by arrow 360). In some embodiments, in the fully compressed state, the sensor door 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 and the sensor frame 310 are coplanar.

[0041] When the pressure sensor assembly 210 is pressed against the fluid bag 202, the force sensor 240, spring 302, and spring bracket 308 are compressed against the sensor support base 304. In some embodiments, the spring bracket 308 may contact the sensor door 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 in the compressed state.

[0042] In some embodiments, in addition to monitoring the pressure in the fluid bag, the spring 302 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 can also operate to store energy from mechanical compression in order to compress the bag in the event of a loss of power to the drive assembly. That is, when (or if) the drive assembly 244 loses power or is otherwise unable to laterally translate the squeeze plate 246 to press against the fluid bag 202 to compress it, the compressed spring 302 then decompresses and applies a compressive force to the fluid bag 202 to maintain or generate a predetermined amount of fluid pressure in the fluid bag 202 for a predetermined period of time (e.g., depending on the arrangement and configuration of the spring 302). This arrangement serves as a passive backup infusion / infusion mechanism that allows infusion / infusion to continue for a predetermined period of time.

[0043] Figure 4A A detailed cross-sectional view of an exemplary pressure sensor assembly in its uncompressed position is illustrated. The pressure sensor assembly 210 includes a sensor support base 304 coupled to the sensor frame 310 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 and in contact with a force sensor 240 positioned between the sensor support base 304 and the sensor door 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210. However, the force sensor 240 does not directly contact the sensor door 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 because a spring bracket 308 provides an interface between the force sensor 240 and the sensor door 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210. The spring bracket 308 and the spring 302 are coupled to the sensor door 312 via a spring pin 320.

[0044] When the pressure sensor assembly 210 is in an uncompressed position (e.g., when the sensor door 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 is not in contact with the spring support 308), the spring support 308 remains in contact with the force sensor 240. The spring support 308 is designed to remain in contact with the force sensor 240 even when the spring force of the spring 302 pushes the spring support 308 away from the sensor door 312 and against the head 324 of the spring pin 320, so that even when the pressure sensor assembly 210 is in an uncompressed position, the force sensor 240 can measure the force from the fluid bag 202 acting on the sensor door 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210.

[0045] When the fluid bag 202 is introduced into the fluid control module 101, and the squeeze plate 246 moves toward the fluid bag 202 to squeeze the fluid bag 202, the fluid bag 202 may generate a reaction force on the sensor door 312. These reaction forces are transmitted as forces to the force sensor 240 through the spring 302 and the spring bracket 308.

[0046] Although Figures 4A to 4B The described configuration is shown, but other configurations are also envisioned, such as including a spring bracket mounted on the sensor door of the pressure sensor assembly and positioned between the force sensor and the base, or the force sensor being positioned such that the portion of the force sensor that measures the force faces the base. However, the spring bracket can always be in contact with the force sensor to monitor the pressure of the fluid bag.

[0047] In some embodiments, one or more spring pins 320 may be positioned within the spring 302 along its longitudinal axis. The spring pins 320 may be operable to facilitate alignment of the spring 302 with the sensor support base 304 and the spring holder 308, and to maintain longitudinal compression of the spring 302. The spring 302 may be a spring as described herein (e.g., as...). Figures 4A to 4B The depicted spring may be a helical spring, or, for example, a flat spring; a biasing member; or a flexural element (e.g., a thin sheet of metal alloy configured to bend in response to mechanical compression). In some embodiments, the spring 302, spring pin 320, spring bracket 308, and sensor support base 304 may be formed of a metal or metal alloy material (such as stainless steel or aluminum).

[0048] In the uncompressed position, sensor gate 312 and sensor frame 310 are positioned on different planes (e.g., as shown in reference). Figure 3C (As described). When the pressure sensor assembly 210 is in the uncompressed position, the spring 302 is in a semi-compressed state (e.g., not fully compressed). A spring bracket 308 is coupled to the spring 302 surrounding the spring pin 320, and when the pressure sensor assembly 210 is in the uncompressed position, the spring bracket 308 is positioned against the head 324 of the spring pin 320. However, the spring bracket 308 is operable to move downward along the spring pin 320 (e.g., away from the head 324 of the spring pin 320) when the pressure sensor assembly 210 is compressed, thereby further compressing the spring 302, as... Figure 4B As shown.

[0049] Figure 4BA detailed perspective view of an exemplary pressure sensor assembly in a compressed position is illustrated. In the compressed position, the sensor door 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 is positioned on the same plane as the sensor frame 310. When the pressure sensor assembly 210 is in a compressed state, the spring 302 is further compressed (e.g., thereby storing energy for backup infusion / infusion). In the compressed position, the spring pin 320 and the spring support 308 support the compression of the spring 302, and the spring support 308 further contacts the back of the sensor door 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 to apply pressure to the force sensor 240.

[0050] In some embodiments, such as Figures 4A to 4B As shown, spring 302 and spring bracket 308 are connected to each other at the head 324 of spring pin 320. When pressure sensor assembly 210 is translated from an uncompressed position to a compressed position by pressure from fluid bag 202 as squeeze plate 246 translates toward fluid bag 202, spring bracket 308 translates downward along spring pin 320, thereby further compressing spring 302. The compression of spring 302 transmits force through spring bracket 308 and ultimately to force sensor 240. Correspondingly, reaction forces from fluid bag 202 are applied to the front side of sensor door 312, and these reaction forces are transmitted as forces through spring 302 and spring bracket 308 to force sensor 240.

[0051] Furthermore, even when the spring 302 is not compressed, force can be transmitted to the force sensor 240 by compressing the spring support 308 through the sensor gate 312 (which causes the spring support 308 to press against the force sensor 240). In this sense, force is also transmitted through a parallel force path bypassing the spring 302: from the sensor gate 312 to the spring support 308, and then to the force sensor 240.

[0052] In some other embodiments, the spring bracket 308 may be connected to the pressure sensor assembly 210 in a manner similar to the sensor door 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210. For example, the spring bracket 308 may be coupled to a pin 316 on the top portion 314 of the pressure sensor assembly 210, similar to... Figure 3A and Figure 3B The configuration of the sensor gate 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 is described. In this embodiment, when the pressure sensor assembly 210 enters the compressed position, the spring support 308 will translate together with the sensor gate 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 about the axis of the pin 316 and contact the force sensor 240.

[0053] In addition to monitoring the pressure of the fluid bag based on the force acting on the pressure sensor assembly 210 in response to the pressure plate 246 pressing against the fluid bag 202, the pressure sensor assembly 210 (specifically the spring 302) can also be operated to store energy to continue compressing the fluid bag 202 in the event of a loss of power in the fluid control system, motor failure, or other compression losses. For example, once compressed, the spring 302 can be operated to continue supplying pressure to the fluid bag 202 to maintain fluid flow to the surgical cartridge or surgical handpiece. The characteristics of the pressure sensor assembly 210 and the pressure plate 246 can be customized to provide a desired force pressure from one or more different compression positions over a desired time period.

[0054] In some embodiments, the spring 302 may be sized to appropriately store a specified amount of energy in its uncompressed state and / or be compressed by a specified amount, thus delivering a specified amount of force through the sensor gate 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 to the fluid bag 202. The specified amount of force may directly relate to the distance (e.g., out of the plane of the sensor frame 310) that the sensor gate 312 of the pressure sensor assembly 210 translates toward the fluid bag 202 when the backup infusion system is actuated (e.g., due to insufficient power to the drive assembly or actuator failure). For example, in cases where a backup infusion system is required (e.g., due to loss of power), the force provided by the spring 302 to the fluid bag 202 may be a specified force that provides desired backup infusion parameters based on the type of surgery or the type of fluid bag.

[0055] The foregoing description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments described herein. Various modifications to these embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments. Therefore, the claims are not intended to limit them to the embodiments shown herein, but are given the full scope consistent with the language of the claims.

Claims

1. A backup infusion pressure sensor module for use in an ophthalmic surgical console, the backup infusion pressure sensor module comprising: An extrusion plate, the extrusion plate being configured to engage with a fluid bag; A pressure sensor assembly having a sensor door and a sensor frame, wherein the sensor door pivots relative to a pin coupled to a top portion of the pressure sensor assembly, the pin being configured to bias the sensor door toward the fluid bag, the pressure sensor assembly comprising: A base, which is mounted to the back side of the sensor frame of the pressure sensor assembly; One or more springs; Spring bracket, the spring bracket being connected to the one or more springs; and A force sensor is in contact with the spring support and is configured to determine the pressure force from the fluid bag.

2. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 1, wherein, The pressure sensor assembly is configured to have a compressed state and an uncompressed state, wherein: When the sensor door and the sensor frame are positioned in the same plane, the pressure sensor assembly is in a compressed state; and The pressure sensor assembly is in an uncompressed state when the sensor door is biased toward the fluid bag and the sensor door is not positioned in the same plane as the sensor frame.

3. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 2, wherein, The pressure force from the fluid bag acts on the sensor gate of the pressure sensor assembly, and the pressure force is transmitted to the force sensor in both the compressed state and the uncompressed state.

4. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 2, wherein, When the pressure sensor assembly is in the compressed state, the spring bracket contacts the back side of the sensor door of the pressure sensor assembly.

5. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 1, wherein, The module further includes: An actuator configured to actuate the extrusion plate against the fluid bag, the actuator comprising at least one of the following: a drive or a lead screw.

6. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 1, wherein, The pressure sensor assembly is configured to store energy from mechanical compression of the fluid bag to provide compressive force to the fluid bag in the absence of mechanical compression.

7. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 1, wherein, The sensor door of the pressure sensor assembly is connected to the sensor frame of the pressure sensor assembly by a pin, the pin being adapted to pivot the sensor door of the pressure sensor assembly about the axis of the pin.

8. A backup infusion pressure sensor module for use in an ophthalmic surgical console, the backup infusion pressure sensor module comprising: An extrusion plate, the extrusion plate being configured to engage with a fluid bag; A pressure sensor assembly having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is pivotable relative to a pin coupled to the second portion, and the pressure sensor assembly is configured to contact at least a portion of the pressure sensor assembly with the fluid bag, the pressure sensor assembly comprising: A base, which is mounted to the back side of the pressure sensor assembly; One or more bias components; A bracket, the bracket being coupled to the one or more biasing members; and A force sensor is in contact with the support and is configured to determine the pressure force from the fluid bag.

9. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 8, wherein, The pressure sensor assembly is configured to have a compressed state and an uncompressed state, wherein: When the first part and the second part of the pressure sensor assembly are positioned in the same plane, the pressure sensor assembly is in a compressed state; and The pressure sensor assembly is in an uncompressed state when the first portion of the pressure sensor assembly is biased toward the fluid bag and the first portion is not located in the same plane as the second portion.

10. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 9, wherein, The pressure force from the fluid bag acts on the first part of the pressure sensor assembly, and the pressure force is transmitted to the force sensor in both the compressed state and the uncompressed state.

11. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 9, wherein, When the pressure sensor assembly is in the compressed state, the bracket contacts the back side of the first part of the pressure sensor assembly.

12. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 8, wherein, The module further includes: An actuator configured to actuate the extrusion plate against the fluid bag, the actuator comprising at least one of the following: a drive or a lead screw.

13. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 8, wherein, The support is configured to store energy from mechanical compression of the fluid bag to provide compressive force to the fluid bag in the absence of mechanical compression.

14. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 8, wherein, A first portion of the pressure sensor assembly is connected to a second portion of the pressure sensor assembly by a pin, the pin being adapted to pivot the first portion about an axis of the pin.

15. The backup infusion pressure sensor module as described in claim 8, wherein, The extrusion plate, the first part of the pressure sensor assembly, and the second part of the pressure sensor assembly are formed of stainless steel or aluminum.