Constant Force Ultrasound Probe Handle Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasound imaging technologies face challenges in controlling and minimizing compressive forces at the transducer-patient interface, leading to artifacts in shearwave elastography and overall image quality, particularly due to examiner-induced deformation.
Innovation Solution
A constant force probe handle is designed as an accessory for commercial ultrasound probes, utilizing a mechanism with constant force springs and low friction bearings to maintain a precise and consistent contact force, allowing axial movement while keeping the force constant, thus reducing user-induced variability and image artifacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If examiner applies manual pressure to maintain probe contact with patient body, then probe-patient contact is maintained, but tissue deformation and compressive force artifacts are induced
Solution Approach 1:
The constant force spring mechanism automatically maintains a preset contact force between the probe and patient body without requiring continuous manual adjustment by the examiner. The spring's mechanical properties inherently provide the constant force, making the system self-regulating and eliminating the need for active examiner intervention to maintain contact stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the force parameter from variable (manually controlled) to constant (mechanically controlled). By using a constant force spring, the contact force is maintained at a predetermined value throughout the examination, preventing both loss of contact and excessive compressive force that causes tissue deformation.
2Ease of operation
If examiner manually controls probe pressure, then contact force can be adjusted, but user-induced variability and inconsistency in imaging quality occur
Solution Approach 1:
The constant force spring mechanism automatically maintains a preset contact force between the probe and patient body without requiring continuous manual adjustment by the examiner. The spring's mechanical properties inherently provide the constant force, making the system self-regulating and eliminating the need for active examiner intervention to maintain contact stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the force parameter from variable (manually controlled) to constant (mechanically controlled). By using a constant force spring, the contact force is maintained at a predetermined value throughout the examination, preventing both loss of contact and excessive compressive force that causes tissue deformation.
3Measurement precision
If probe is designed with constant force mechanism, then contact force is standardized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The constant force mechanism is extracted as a separate, modular component (the handle assembly with constant force spring) that can be attached to or integrated with the probe. This separation allows the imaging transducer to remain simple while the force control function is provided by the dedicated mechanical mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The constant force spring acts as an intermediary mechanical element between the examiner's hand and the probe transducer. It mediates the force transmission, converting variable manual pressure into constant controlled force, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture while achieving force standardization.
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 ultrasound image acquisition by minimizing deformation and reducing artifacts, providing standardized imaging conditions and improved diagnostic capabilities across various applications.
Implementation Method 1
at least one constant force spring coupled to the inner sleeve and configured to apply a predetermined force to the probe
Implementation Method 2
low friction bearings to maintain a precise and consistent contact force
Data Source
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AI summary
A probe handle accessory for use with a probe includes an outer housing having a first hollow interior and an outer surface for being gripped by a user. The accessory also includes an inner sleeve that is disposed within the first hollow interior and moves axially therein. The inner sleeve having a second hollow interior that is configured to receive the probe and the inner sleeve is configured for securely holding the probe in place within the second hollow interior. At least one biasing element is provided and is coupled to the outer housing and to the inner sleeve and configured to apply a force to the inner sleeve in a distal direction for maintaining the probe in position against a surface of interest during examination thereof, while permitting axial movement of the inner sleeve within the outer housing.