Biopsy Device Pressure Gradient Tissue Transport
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biopsy devices face challenges in smoothly transporting tissue samples due to clogging and high manufacturing costs associated with complex configurations and expensive components, such as vacuum pumps and pressurization sources.
Innovation Solution
A biopsy device and system that generates a pressure difference by creating a low pressure at the sample's front end and atmospheric pressure at the rear end using a vacuum source, employing a flexible hose and solenoid actuator for simple and cost-effective operation, and utilizing a single gear train for the cutter's movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a vacuum pump is used to transport the tissue sample through the passageways, then the tissue sample can be collected, but a low pressure acts at the transport-direction rear end of the tissue sample, preventing smooth transport and causing clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The passageway is divided into two separate passageways: a first passageway for introducing the tissue sample and a second passageway for discharging the tissue sample. This segmentation allows independent pressure control in each passageway, enabling smooth transport by introducing air into the first passageway while maintaining vacuum in the second passageway.
Solution Approach 2:
Air is introduced as an intermediary substance into the first passageway to push the tissue sample forward. This intermediary air flow, combined with the vacuum in the second passageway, creates a pressure gradient that smoothly transports the tissue sample without clogging.
2Ease of operation
If a flexible push rod with a drive mechanism (worm gear, drive block) is used to push the tissue sample, then transport is assisted, but the configuration becomes complex and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex mechanical drive mechanism (worm gear, drive block, flexible push rod) is replaced with a pneumatic system. Air is introduced into the first passageway to push the tissue sample, eliminating the need for mechanical push rods and their complex drive mechanisms, thereby reducing device complexity and manufacturing cost.
3Ease of operation
If a pressurization source with fittings is used to deliver high pressure flow for tissue sample transport, then transport is assisted, but manufacturing cost increases due to expensive components
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum pump serves multiple functions: it creates vacuum for tissue sample collection and also works in conjunction with the air introduction system for tissue sample transport. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate pressurization source and its associated expensive fittings, reducing manufacturing cost.
4Productivity
If vacuum pressure is applied to transport the tissue sample, then the tissue sample can be collected, but clogging occurs in the passageways requiring a new biopsy device
Solution Approach 1:
Different pressure conditions are applied to different locations: air is introduced into the first passageway at atmospheric pressure to push the tissue sample, while vacuum is maintained in the second passageway to pull the tissue sample. This local quality differentiation prevents clogging by ensuring continuous forward motion of the tissue sample throughout the transport path.
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
The system effectively transports tissue samples with improved ease and reduced manufacturing costs by using inexpensive components and a straightforward structure, ensuring smooth sample collection and assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum source connected to the passageway of the cutter so as to suck the tissue and the tissue sample
Implementation Method 2
an air inflow line configured to interconnect the passageway of the needle and the atmosphere existing outside the needle so as to create an atmospheric pressure within the passageway of the needle neighboring a transport-direction rear end of the tissue sample when sucking the tissue sample
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a biopsy device and system for effectively collecting tissue samples by cutting human tissue. The biopsy device of the present invention consists of a needle, a cutter, a drive mechanism, a vacuum line and an air inlet line. The biopsy system of the present invention comprises: a vacuum source connected to the vacuum line; and a solenoid actuator for closing and opening the passageway by pressing and releasing a flexible tube of the air inlet line. The present invention creates the atmospheric pressure at the rear end of the transporting direction of a tissue sample while creating a low pressure at the front end of the transporting direction of the tissue sample by suction of the vacuum source, thereby generating a pressure difference between the front end and the rear end of the transporting direction of the tissue sample, and thus has an effect of smoothly transporting tissue samples.