Distal Scanning Module Shape-Memory Alloy Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current distal scanning modules for endoscopic laser surgery lack precision and uniformity in tissue ablation due to the need for a direct line of sight and are not compatible with manual or motor-driven actuation systems, posing safety risks with conductive components.
Innovation Solution
A distal scanning module with a simplified structure using a shape-memory alloy oblong structure and pusher member to control the orientation of an optical waveguide, allowing for precise movement and positioning without external energy sources, and being intrinsically safe by avoiding conductive components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a distal scanning module uses a direct line of sight from outside the patient's body, then the laser beam positioning is simple, but the applicability to endoscopic surgery is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The optical waveguide is nested within the deformable oblong structure, allowing the scanning module to be inserted through body cavities and navigate to distal locations while maintaining optical functionality. The waveguide is positioned within the lumen of the oblong structure, enabling compact integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The oblong structure is designed to be deformable rather than rigid, allowing it to bend and conform to the contours of body cavities during endoscopic procedures. This dynamic flexibility enables navigation through complex anatomical pathways while the pusher member dynamically adjusts the orientation of the optical apparatus.
2Measurement precision
If a distal scanning module uses conductive components and external energy sources, then the actuation control is precise, but the safety risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory alloy provides self-actuation capability through its inherent phase transformation properties in response to thermal or magnetic stimuli, eliminating the need for external power sources or conductive connections at the distal end. The material itself serves as both the actuator and the structural element.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical actuation systems with motors, gears, and conductive components are replaced with a shape memory alloy-based system that uses material phase transformation to generate mechanical motion. This substitution eliminates conductive components while maintaining actuation functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a distal scanning module uses a complex robotic structure with multiple backbones, then the manipulation capability is enhanced, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into distinct functional components: a deformable oblong structure for navigation, a pusher member for actuation control, and an optical waveguide for light transmission. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The oblong structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural framework, enables navigation through deformability, and houses the optical waveguide. The pusher member serves both as a structural support and as the actuation mechanism, reducing the number of separate components needed.
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
Enables high precision, accuracy, and speed in positioning optical apparatuses for both diagnostic and surgical applications, ensuring minimal invasiveness and safety by allowing manual or motor-driven control and eliminating the need for a direct line of sight, while being compatible with both manual and programmable actuation systems.
Implementation Method 1
an oblong structure (12) comprising a proximal portion (18) and an end portion (20), which is at least partially deformable
Data Source
AI summary
A module includes an oblong structure; an optical apparatus associated with the oblong structure for facing a segment arranged inside a body cavity of a patient. An actuating device is for controlling the position of the oblong structure so as to orient the optical apparatus in the body cavity. The oblong structure has a proximal portion and an end portion, which is deformable, so as to tend to remain in and elastically return to a bent condition, in which it is normally flexed. The actuating device includes a pusher member, which moves in a guided manner relative to the oblong structure and is suited to act upon the end portion, so as to angularly move it from the bent condition towards a substantially straight condition.