Adjustable-Bend Catheter Testing with Automated Force Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing catheter testing devices require significant manual intervention, leading to operator errors and difficulties in automation, especially in fatigue resistance tests that simulate repeated bending or stretching cycles.
Innovation Solution
A medical catheter testing device with a PLC-controlled system, including a catheter clamping assembly, visual detection assemblies, and bending force detection components, which automates the testing process, reduces human error, and provides comprehensive geometric and mechanical evaluations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual operation is used in catheter testing, then operator flexibility is maintained, but operator errors increase and automation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated testing system that includes a control unit, actuator, and detection assembly. The control unit automatically controls the actuator to apply bending forces to the catheter while the detection assembly automatically measures geometric parameters, eliminating operator errors and enabling consistent automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing device is designed to automatically perform testing without requiring continuous manual intervention. The system self-regulates the testing process through feedback mechanisms where the detection assembly provides real-time data to the control unit, which automatically adjusts the actuator accordingly, making the system self-sufficient and reliable.
2Measurement precision
If comprehensive detection assemblies are added, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection assembly is designed as a multi-functional unit that can measure multiple geometric parameters (bending angle, bending radius, curvature) simultaneously using a single integrated sensor system. This universal detection mechanism reduces the need for multiple separate measurement devices, thereby improving measurement precision while controlling overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple detection functions into a single integrated detection assembly that measures geometric parameters, applies forces, and collects data simultaneously. By merging these functions into one cohesive system with coordinated control, the patent achieves comprehensive measurement capability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Reliability
If automated control is implemented, then operator errors are reduced, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the detection assembly provides real-time geometric data to the control unit. Based on this feedback, the control unit automatically adjusts the actuator to maintain precise control over the bending force application, reducing operator errors while using straightforward feedback logic that does not excessively increase control system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex manual control mechanisms with a simplified automated control system that uses basic control algorithms. The control unit executes predetermined test protocols and automatically adjusts parameters based on feedback, achieving reliable operation with minimal control system complexity compared to manual operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a medical adjustable bend pipe testing device and a testing method thereof, comprising: a machine platform, a catheter clamping assembly linearly arranged on the machine platform, a first visual detection assembly parallelly arranged on one side of the catheter clamping assembly, a wire pulling force detection assembly arranged on the wire pulling end of the catheter, a bending force detection assembly arranged on one side of the bending adjustment section of the catheter and a second visual detection assembly located at the end of the catheter. A PLC controller and a data acquisition and analysis module for receiving test results and providing control signals are also provided on the machine platform. The PLC controller is connected with a control panel and a display panel to perform fatigue test on the catheter.