Endoscope Imaging Processor Fluid Control for Surgical Bleeding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current surgical procedures require manual adjustments to restore a clear image during endoscopic surgeries when bleeding occurs, which consumes time and resources.

Innovation Solution

A system that automatically detects unclear images using an imaging processor and communicates with a fluid management system to make adjustments, such as fluid inflow or outflow, to maintain a clear view of the surgical site.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual adjustments are made to the fluid management system when the image becomes unclear, then the image clarity can be restored, but the surgical time is extended and resources are consumed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage clarityVSAvoidsurgical time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging processor continuously monitors image clarity and provides feedback signals to the fluid management system. When bleeding is detected or image quality degrades, the processor automatically sends control signals to adjust fluid flow rates, enabling closed-loop control that maintains optimal visualization without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service operation where the imaging processor autonomously detects image degradation and automatically communicates with the fluid management system to restore clarity. This eliminates the need for manual monitoring and adjustment by surgical staff, allowing the system to service itself during the procedure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If manual adjustments are made to restore a clear image, then the image quality can be maintained, but additional human resources and attention are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system establishes a feedback loop where the imaging processor monitors image quality parameters and automatically communicates with the fluid management system. This eliminates the need for manual monitoring by surgical staff, as the automated feedback mechanism handles quality maintenance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment operations with an automated electronic control system. The imaging processor generates control signals that are transmitted to the fluid management system, substituting human manual intervention with electronic automation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS9730575B2System for use in surgical procedures
Publication Date: 2017.08.15 SMITH & NEPHEW INC
  • US9730575B2 patent drawing
  • US9730575B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for use in surgical procedures. The system includes an endoscope, an imaging device coupled to the endoscope, an imaging processor coupled to the imaging device, and at least one management system coupled to the imaging processor, in which a function of the management system is automatically adjusted upon receipt of a communication from the imaging processor.