Electromagnetic Actuated Ultrasonic Probe for Ophthalmic Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ophthalmic ultrasonic probes face issues with mechanical fatigue, vibration, and heat due to motorized mechanical parts, leading to cable failures and inefficient scanning processes.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetically actuated beam with a cantilevered or hinged configuration, using magnetic forces to move an ultrasonic transceiver along a predetermined path, reducing the need for complex mechanical drive trains and allowing for both B-scan and UBM probes to be mounted on the same actuator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If motorized mechanical parts are used to provide mechanical movement in ultrasonic probes, then scanning capability is achieved, but mechanical fatigue and cable failures occur due to continued use and elevated temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces motorized mechanical scanning parts with an electromagnetic actuator that uses magnetic fields to move the ultrasonic transducer. This substitution eliminates mechanical fatigue and cable failures associated with motorized systems while maintaining scanning capability through electromagnetic actuation of the transducer assembly.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical scanning systems are used to move the transducer, then scanning is achieved, but acoustic noise increases requiring insulation and software filters
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic actuator replaces mechanical scanning mechanisms, eliminating the acoustic noise generated by mechanical motors and moving parts. The magnetic field-based actuation produces minimal acoustic interference, removing the need for insulation and software filtering required in mechanical systems.
3Measurement precision
If stepper motors and complicated mechanical systems are used, then precise scanning control is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic actuator provides precise control of the ultrasonic transducer position through electronic control of magnetic fields, replacing complex mechanical drive trains with a simpler, more cost-effective electromagnetic system that maintains scanning precision.
4Reliability
If cables are used to carry drive current and signals in mechanical systems, then electrical connection is achieved, but cable failures occur due to mechanical fatigue and temperature exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic actuator design eliminates the need for cables carrying drive current to mechanical motors, as the electromagnetic components are integrated into the actuator assembly. This removal of external cables eliminates failures due to mechanical fatigue and temperature exposure of cable connections.
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 solution provides a low-cost, accurate, and robust ultrasonic probe with minimal electronic control, capable of precise scanning and adaptable for various ophthalmic applications, reducing mechanical wear and tear while maintaining image quality.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic coil interacts with a permanent magnet on the beam to generate a magnetic force on the beam thereby moving the beam along a predetermined angular path
Implementation Method 2
an ultrasonic transducer mounted on the end of the beam and driven by the beam along said path to scan the eye of a patient
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasonic probe is composed of a beam having a fixed end and a free end, with an ultrasonic transceiver mounted on the free end. A driving mechanism is used to move said ultrasonic transceiver to one or more predetermined positions by applying an electromagnetic force on the beam.