Dual-Sensor Input Control for Intentional Medical Device Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Minimally invasive medical procedures using steerable elongate devices face challenges in safely controlling the device to prevent unintended tissue damage due to accidental actuation of the master assembly, which can lead to undesirable motion and trauma to the patient.
Innovation Solution
A control system that includes a processor and memory to detect operator contact using sensors, preventing control signal generation if the detected displacement exceeds a threshold, and limiting movement velocity to prevent accidental movements, with context-dependent displacement thresholds and velocity caps based on the medical procedure and tissue sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the master assembly is made easily operable for minimally invasive procedures, then the ease of operation is improved, but the risk of accidental actuation and unintended tissue damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system between the operator and the medical device that includes sensors to detect operator contact and motion sensors to monitor input device displacement. This intermediary layer verifies intentional operation before transmitting control signals, preventing accidental actuation while maintaining ease of operation for legitimate procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where motion sensors continuously monitor the position and displacement of input devices, and operator contact sensors provide real-time detection of operator presence. This feedback loop allows the system to distinguish between intentional operator input and accidental contact, enabling safe operation without compromising ease of use.
2Reliability
If velocity limits are imposed on the medical device to prevent accidental movements, then the safety is improved, but the productivity of the procedure decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic velocity limiting where the maximum velocity of the medical device is not fixed but adjusts based on real-time sensor input. When operator contact is detected and motion is verified as intentional, higher velocities are permitted for efficient procedure execution. When no operator contact is detected or displacement exceeds thresholds, velocity is automatically limited to prevent accidental movements, thus balancing safety and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the velocity parameter based on operational context. Motion sensors detect displacement distance and direction, and the control system adjusts the velocity cap accordingly - allowing faster movement during confirmed intentional operation while imposing stricter limits during uncertain or accidental scenarios, optimizing both safety and procedural efficiency.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If displacement thresholds are set low to prevent excessive movement, then the harmful factors are reduced, but the ease of operation for reaching target tissue decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the displacement control into multiple threshold levels rather than using a single restrictive limit. Different displacement thresholds are established for different operational phases and directions, allowing the device to move further when justified by sensor verification while maintaining strict limits in sensitive zones. This segmentation enables both tissue protection and effective navigation to target sites.
Solution Approach 2:
The displacement thresholds are made dynamic rather than static, adjusting based on real-time sensor data including operator contact detection and motion patterns. When intentional operation is confirmed through sensor verification, the system permits larger displacement distances to reach target tissue. When accidental contact is detected or operator presence is unconfirmed, thresholds are reduced to prevent tissue trauma, thus adaptively balancing safety and operational effectiveness.
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 reduces the risk of unintended tissue damage by ensuring that only intentional and controlled movements of the medical device are made, enhancing safety during minimally invasive procedures.
Implementation Method 1
the operator-detection sensor may comprise a capacitive sensor configured to detect when the operator is in physical contact with the input device
Implementation Method 2
a motion sensor associated with the input device and that may be configured to detect a displacement distance of the input device
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for operation of a medical device may include at least two sensors to confirm a command to control a medical instrument is intentionally made by an operator. The systems may include an operator-detection sensor associated with an input device and configured to detect a presence of an operator at the input device. The systems may also include a motion sensor associated with the input device and configured to detect a displacement distance of the input device. A control unit may use a displacement threshold for the input device and may be configured to permit or prevent control signal generation based on feedback from the at least two sensors.