Configurable Electrosurgical Generator Housing with Tilted Display

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrosurgical generators lack a configurable and ergonomic front panel design that effectively integrates a touchscreen display and accessory plug modules, leading to potential electromagnetic interference (EMI) and usability issues.

Innovation Solution

A gas-enhanced electrosurgical generator housing with a configurable front panel featuring a tilted display opening, multiple docks for accessory plug modules, and a shielded design to reduce EMI, incorporating a base, back, and cover that form a compartment to secure gas and power modules, along with a slot for a printed circuit board and shield.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a touchscreen display is integrated into the front panel at a standard 90-degree angle, then the structural design is simpler, but the ergonomics and user viewing comfort deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveergonomics and viewing comfortVSAvoidfront panel structural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The front panel is designed with an asymmetric tilt angle (between 45-60 degrees from vertical, or 30-45 degrees from horizontal) rather than a standard 90-degree perpendicular mounting. This asymmetric angular configuration improves ergonomic viewing comfort and operational accessibility while maintaining structural feasibility through the integrated recessed cavity design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Reliability

If accessory plug modules are arranged without alignment features, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the reliability of proper module insertion deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule insertion accuracyVSAvoidfront panel structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Alignment ridges protruding from the front panel serve as intermediary features that interface with corresponding alignment grooves on the accessory plug modules. These ridges act as mechanical guides ensuring proper positioning and insertion accuracy of the modules into their respective recessed cavities, while the overall structure remains integrated into the existing front panel design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the front panel contains multiple openings for displays and plug modules, then the functionality and adaptability are improved, but the susceptibility to electromagnetic interference worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessory integration capabilityVSAvoidelectromagnetic interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The recessed cavities that accommodate the touchscreen display and accessory plug modules simultaneously serve dual purposes: they provide the necessary openings for functionality and adaptability, while also acting as electromagnetic shielding structures. The recessed design with integrated seals converts the potential harm of EMI exposure into a benefit by creating natural shielding zones that protect sensitive electronic components while maintaining full operational functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Data Source

PatentUS11612425B2Configurable electrosurgical generator housing
Publication Date: 2023.03.28 US PATENT INNOVATIONS LLC
  • US11612425B2 patent drawing
  • US11612425B2 patent drawing
  • US11612425B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A configurable electrosurgical generator front panel. The configurable electrosurgical generator front panel has a front panel frame, a display screen or tablet computing device, and a plurality of connectors for connecting accessories to the front panel frame. The front panel in the front panel assembly provides a novel structure for inserting a screen or tablet device into the front panel frame and securing it in place.