ENT Tool Antenna Segmentation for Compact Handle Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless surgical tools for ENT procedures require large antennas, which can make the handle cumbersome and less manageable for physicians, and there is a need for a solution that allows for efficient wireless communication without the limitations of cable connections.
Innovation Solution
A biocompatible conductive tube acts as both the surgical tool and antenna, combined with an insulated conductive coil and transceiver to generate and transmit radiofrequency signals, enabling efficient wireless communication while maintaining a compact and delicate handle design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a large antenna is used for efficient wireless communication, then wireless communication efficiency is improved, but the handle size and manageability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is segmented into multiple sections along the length of the conductive tube, allowing the radiofrequency signal to be transmitted at multiple points rather than requiring a single large antenna. This segmentation enables efficient wireless communication while maintaining a compact handle design.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna is extended along the longitudinal dimension of the tool rather than expanding the handle in lateral dimensions. By distributing antenna elements along the length of the conductive tube that extends into the patient's body, the patent achieves efficient wireless communication without increasing handle volume.
2Reliability
If cable connections are used for tool control, then connection reliability is improved, but operational flexibility and physician maneuverability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical cable connection system is replaced with an electromagnetic wireless communication system. The transceiver generates radiofrequency signals that are transmitted through the conductive tube antenna, eliminating the need for physical cable connections while maintaining reliable data transmission and tool control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wireless tools are deployed, then surgical versatility is improved, but signal interference and communication reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Each wireless tool has its own dedicated transceiver and antenna system with locally optimized characteristics. The conductive tube antenna is specifically designed to match the electrical properties of surrounding body tissues, creating a localized electromagnetic environment that reduces interference from other tools and improves signal reliability.
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
This configuration allows for effective wireless communication in ENT procedures, providing a compact and manageable tool that can be used for procedures like suction from a patient's sinus, with the ability to track the tool's position and orientation accurately, enhancing surgical precision and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
an insulated conductive coil, fashioned around and fixed to the second conductive tube, that generates a signal in response to a magnetic field traversing the coil
Implementation Method 2
a transceiver connected to receive the signal from the insulated conductive coil, so as in response to generate a radiofrequency signal at a preset frequency and convey the radiofrequency signal to the second conductive tube for radiation therefrom as electromagnetic energy at the preset frequency
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, including a handle and a first conductive tube that is attached to and extends from the handle. The first conductive tube is biocompatible, and a distal end of the first conductive tube is configured to be inserted into an orifice of a human being for a medical procedure. The apparatus includes a second conductive tube, that is attached to and is enclosed by the first conductive tube. The first and second conductive tubes together act as an antenna for electromagnetic radiation. An insulated conductive coil is fashioned around and is fixed to the second conductive tube, and the coil generates a signal in response to a magnetic field traversing the coil. The apparatus also includes a transceiver that receives the signal from the insulated conductive coil, and in response generates a radiofrequency signal at a preset frequency and conveys the radiofrequency signal to the second conductive tube for radiation therefrom as electromagnetic energy at the preset frequency.