Arthroscopic Probe Magnetic Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical systems for arthroscopic and endoscopic procedures lack effective methods for identifying and controlling motor-driven components, particularly in determining the type of tool probe attached and its operational parameters, which affects the precision and safety of tissue cutting and removal.
Innovation Solution
The use of magnets and magnetic sensors, such as Hall sensors, to provide information to system controllers about the tool probe's identity, orientation, and operational characteristics, allowing for controlled operational stopping and starting of motor-driven components, enabling precise control and monitoring during surgical procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single tool system is used to accommodate multiple functionalities (dozens of specific functionalities through interchangeable probes), then flexibility and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for accurate tool identification and parameter control
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic field is introduced as an intermediary between the probe and the handpiece sensor. The magnetic field carries encoding information about the probe type, allowing the system to identify the attached probe without complex mechanical or electronic interfaces. This resolves the contradiction by enabling versatile probe interchangeability while keeping the identification mechanism simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical identification systems (such as mechanical keys, switches, or electronic contacts) with a magnetic field-based identification system. This substitution reduces device complexity while maintaining the ability to distinguish between different probe types and configurations.
2Measurement precision
If magnetic sensors and magnets are used for tool identification and control, then measurement precision and control accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides probe identification, determines probe orientation (upward or downward facing), and enables rotational position detection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate sensors and mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe itself generates the magnetic field encoding its identity and orientation information. The probe does not require additional sensors, switches, or mechanical indicators; instead, it uses its own magnetic properties to communicate with the handpiece, eliminating the need for complex identification hardware in the probe while maintaining high measurement accuracy.
3Loss of information
If multiple magnets and sensors are used to provide comprehensive tool information (identification, orientation, operational characteristics), then information completeness is improved, but loss of time increases due to data acquisition and processing
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field encoding probe information is continuously present and immediately detectable as soon as the probe is attached to the handpiece. The system performs preliminary detection of the magnetic field characteristics during the attachment process itself, so no additional time is required for separate identification or calibration steps. All necessary information (probe type, orientation, rotational position) is acquired simultaneously and instantly.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the precision and safety of surgical procedures by accurately identifying and controlling motor-driven components, ensuring correct tool operation and preventing potential short circuits, thereby improving the overall efficiency and reliability of arthroscopic and endoscopic surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
A rotational position of the drive coupling can be determined using a Hall sensor or other magnetic or optical sensor in the handpiece
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An arthroscopic or other surgical system includes a handpiece and a probe. The handpiece carries a motor drive, and the probe has a proximal hub and an elongate shaft which extends about a longitudinal axis to a working end of the probe. The hub is configured for detachably coupling to the handpiece, and the motor drive is configured to couple to a rotating drive coupling in the hub when the hub is coupled to the handpiece. A first magnetic component is carried by the hub, and a second magnetic component is coupled to rotate with the rotating drive coupling.